Automated positioning dual-axis solar tracking system with precision elevation and azimuth angle control

Abstract

This paper presents a study on an automated positioning open-loop dual-axis solar tracking system. The solar tracker was designed and fabricated using standard cylindrical aluminium hollow and Polyuthrene (PE). The control system of the solar tracker was governed by Micro Controller Unit (MCU) with auxiliary devices which includes encoder and Global Positioning System (GPS). The sun path trajectory algorithm utilizing the astronomical equation and GPS information was also embedded in the system. The power generation performance of the dual-axis solar tracking system was compared with the fixed-tilted Photovoltaic (PV) system. It is found that the solar tracker is able to position itself automatically based on sun path trajectory algorithm with an accuracy of ±0.5°. The embedded Proportional Integral Derivative (PID) positioning system improves the tracking of elevation and azimuth angles with minimum energy consumption. It is reveals that the proposed solar tracker is able generate 26.9% and 12.8% higher power than fixed-tilted PV system on a clear and heavy overcast conditions respectively. Overall, the open-loop dual-axis solar tracker can be deployed automatically at any location on the earth with minimal configurations and is suitable for mobile solar tracking system.

SCADA-Based Heliostat Control System with a Fuzzy Logic Controller for the Heliostat Orientation

“…Yang et al [11] developed an open-loop sun tracker controlled by a microprocessor AT89S52, using a GPS and an RTC to determine the geographical position coordinates (latitude and longitude) and the current date and time to obtain the sun position. Sidek et al [12] built a master-slave dual-axis solar tracking system using two slave microcontrollers to control the position of both axes, which are governed by a master microcontroller, obtaining an accuracy of 0.5 • in the sun tracker with a maximum energy gain of 26.9% better than the fixed-tilted PV panel. Kumar.N and Subramaniam [13] implemented an MDS sun tracker to orient a solar dish concentrator, calculating the sun position using an RTC and a solar position equation, thus obtaining 75% more average thermal energy compared to a fixed solar tracking system.…”

Operational experience of a Solar Power Plant with a Dual-Axis Solar Tracking System in the conditions of the Southern Urals

“…The main components of the solar tracker: microcontroller, guidance system to the sun and motors. The sun guidance system is based either on light dependent resistor (LDR) [7][8][9] or on GPS module [10,11].…”

A simple and low‐cost active dual‐axis solar tracker

“…However, this tracking approach requires manual intervention to change the site's latitude, local date, and timezone. Sidek et al designed and implemented a DAST open‐loop system that can automatically position itself by using a GPS sensor and a sun's trajectory algorithm; it was obtained 26.9% more energy production. The proposed system can work without user intervention and it can be deployed in any location.…”