Multi-body system simulation of the sun trackers used for PV panels

Abstract

The article approaches the design algorithm of the sun trackers used to improve the energy conversion performance of the photovoltaic systems. In this regard, three specific types of mechanical models are developed in an integrated concept, in the following sequence: kinematics - inverse dynamics - dynamics. The application is carried out by considering a dual-axis sun tracker that uses two linear actuators as driving sources for the diurnal and elevation movements. The MBS package ADAMS is used to model and simulate the behaviour of the sun tracker in virtual prototyping environment.