On the design of solar energy tracker system

Solar energy is a very important means of renewable energy resource. With solar tracking, it will become possible to generate more energy since the solar panel can maintain a perpendicular profile to the rays of the sun. Even though the initial cost of setting up the tracking system is considerably high, there are cheaper options that have been proposed over time. This paper discusses the design and construction of a prototype for solar tracking system that has a single axis of freedom. Light dependent resistors (LDRs) are used for sunlight detection. The control circuit is based on an ATMega328P microcontroller. It was programmed to detect sunlight via the LDRs before actuating the servo to position the solar panel. The solar panel is positioned where it is able to receive maximum light. As compared to other motors, the servo motors are able to maintain their torque at high speed. They are also more efficient with efficiencies in the range of 80-90 %. Servos can supply roughly twice their rated torque for short periods. They are also quiet and do not vibrate or suffer resonance issues. Performance and characteristics of solar panels are analyzed experimentally.