Design and Construction of a Dual-Axis Solar Tracking System by Astronomical Algorithm

Abstract

Solar energy is an intermittent energy source that varies throughout the day and seasons, thereby affecting the overall power system stability. In order to reduce this impact, the solar tracking system can be incorporated, which increases the system energy yield with less silicon consumption. This paper deals with the design and construction of dual-axis solar tracking system based on an astronomical algorithm. The angle sensor is used as feedback in the solar tracking system, which is the combination of accelerometer and gyroscope to measure yaw and tilt angle of the panel. A dual-axis mounting structure is designed by using Solid Works software and constructed with DC motors and worm gear to drive the solar PV panel. The developed astronomical-based algorithm for dual axis solar tracking system has been verified with a sun path chart.