On New High Performance Systems with Linear Actuators for Diurnal Orientation of PV Platforms

Abstract

The paper presents new mechatronic systems used to perform the diurnal orientation of photovoltaic (PV) platforms, aiming to achieve high angular strokes and also low cost, high precision, constructive simplicity and relative low pressure angles. Starting from the disadvantages of the existing tracking mechanism identified in the literature (patents, scientific articles, market documentation, etc.), new high performance linkages and gear mechanisms driven by linear actuators are proposed in the paper. Hence, four new tracking mechanisms, achieving high angular strokes (over 180o), are described: a) quadrilateral type, b) rhombus type, c) slider-crank type, and d) linkage with gears type. These mechanisms are designed especially for concentrating PV systems, which require high orientation precision on the entire angular stroke.