Project Details

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Two-Axis Solar Panel Sun Tracking with One Actuator

Company: Mechatronics Research Lab

Major(s):
Primary: ME
Secondary: EE
Optional: ESC

Non-Disclosure Agreement: NO

Intellectual Property: NO

Two-axis tracking for solar panels aims to maximize energy capture by continuously aligning the panels with the sun's position throughout the day and across seasons. Unlike single-axis trackers, which only follow the sun's movement from east to west, two-axis trackers adjust both the horizontal and vertical angles. This allows the panels to maintain an optimal angle to the sun, increasing efficiency and energy output. The primary objectives are to enhance the overall performance of solar power systems, reduce the levelized cost of electricity, and improve the return on investment by capturing more sunlight and converting it into electricity more effectively. The cost of a second actuator to provide seasonal elevation tracking is often prohibitively high. In this project, two axis (daily azimuth and seasonal elevation) tracking is sought using only one actuator. The final deliverable is a tabletop demonstrator of the proposed design.