Abstract
The efficiency of the photovoltaic system is traditionally being increased with the help of solar concentrators. The concentrators based on biomimetic structures of various flowers have proven to be effective in increasing performance efficiency. The present study proposes the design of a nature-inspired, novel and passive, single-axis solar tracker that operates on the principle of variable coefficients of thermal expansions of different metals in a bimetallic plate. The proposition mimics the heliotropism mechanism of Sunflowers to achieve acceptable results. It involves the use of a solar PV panel mounted on a gear assembly, connected to a bimetallic plate via connecting linkage and a concave mirror to reflect the incident sun rays on the plates during the day. The resultant deflection in the plates rotates the mounted solar PV panel to follow the sun throughout its diurnal course. There were certain conditions that were determined mathematically to ensure correct working of the proposed design. CAD modelling was adopted to better study the functioning of the envisioned contraption as a whole. The proposed design is easy to construct; thereby making it an efficient, promising and economical alternative to other passive and fixed ones.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
