An affordable dual-axis solar tracking system for low capacity PV applications is proposed. Dual-axis tracking increases energy efficiency but existing systems are not feasible for large-scale or Indian applications. The project aims to design an economically feasible and scalable dual-axis tracking system using 3D printing, topology optimization, and sensor-based tracking algorithms. A preliminary design is presented using a socket joint base, hollow ball joint panel holder, and LDR sensors to track the sun's movement and power electric motors controlling each axis.

1. An affordable dual-axis solar tracking
system for low capacity PV
applications
Group 3

2. Introduction
● Dual Axis Tracking increases energy efficiency and density of solar power
● Currently, dual axis tracking is not even feasible on a large scale system
● Not many companies offer axis tracking systems in India
● By 2022, 40 GW Rooftop PV solar installations in India
● Lack of space has led to a new concept known as Micro-housing for which
rooftop area becomes an important parameter
● Aim: To do extensive research of available dual axis tracking systems and
to build a system which is economically feasible and scalable

3. Approach
Approach
Tracking Algorithm
Actuation System
Electrical & Electronics
Mechanical System
Topology Optimization
&
3D Printing

4. Tracking AlgorithmsDualAxisTrackingSystems
Sensor Based Algorithms
Sensorless Algorithms
Light-Dependent Resistors
Solar Cells
GPS and Time based
Data Stored in Memory
Formula based

5. Tracking Algorithms
Using LDR Using Solar Cell Using GPS-Time data
Advantages
● Cheaper sensor
● Easy to implement
● Research backup
● Closed-loop system
● Self-powered
● Closed-loop system
● Sensorless
● Easy to implement
● Research backup
Disadvantages
● External power is
required
● O&M costs
● Costly sensor
● Higher O&M costs
● Open-loop system
● Higher computation
module required
● Initial calibration
required
● Motor with feedback
compulsory

6. Tracking Algorithm - Using LDR (Placement)

7. Controller Motors
LDRs
LDR-based
Tracking
Tracking Algorithm - Using LDR (Controller)

8. Actuationmechanisms
Electric Motor
Linear Actuators
Single motor
Multiple motors
2 DOF
3 DOF
Pneumatic/Hydraulic
Motor based
Passive (thermal)
Actuation Mechanisms

9. Support system and
mechanism Planning and conceptualization

10. Case studies for support structures
Image ref: [2]
Image ref: [1]

11. Mechanism for control (CS)

12. Preliminary design of structure
● Rudimentary design to be tried out
● Base shall be a socket joint reinforced with the
base with external connections (topology
optimisation)
● Panel Holder shall be a hollowed out ball joint
reinforced with steel bars
● Hollowed out 3d printed parts to be used to save
material (printing time) and ensure strength

13. Topology optimisation
● A technique to reduce material
without sacrificing on the strength
of reinforcement
● Objective to reinforce the socket
with the base
● Low amount of material reduced
at first as high strength
preferred.

14. Cost Estimation Basic approximate cost
estimation for electrical circuits

15. Solar Panel for model calculations
● 10 W power
● 12V operating
● 41 x 30 x 2.5 cm dimensions
● 1.31 kg weight
● Ref. here

16. Electrical & Electronics
Device Quantity Specification Cost (Rs.)
Servo Motor 2 Stall torque @6.6V : 15kg-cm
Operating voltage: 4.8V~
7.2V
740
DC Motor 4 Operating voltage: 4-12V,
Rated torque: 1.2 kg-cm,
Stall torque: 3.5 kg-cm
650
Light Dependent
Resistors
10 Through hole, 5mm dia, 2
pins
100

17. Electrical & Electronics
Device Quantity Specification Cost (Rs.)
Motor Driver (L293D) 2 Operating voltage:
4.5-12V,
Operating current:
600mA
240
Voltage Regulator
(LM7805)
5 12V to 5V 50
Arduino 1 Uno r3 375
Battery 1 12V, 1.3 Ah 1000
Resistors 10 10k ohm 10
3D Printing ~2kg Material + fabrication ~3000
Total 6165

18. References
1. http://www.micropositioning.net/motorized_XY_stage_XYZ_stage_6-axis_stages_high_precision.php
2. https://www.brighthub.com/environment/renewable-energy/articles/76226.aspx
3. https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwjKxuzUvrLkAhUCT48KHQC
nDHwQMwhvKBEwEQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Felectronics.stackexchange.com%2Fquestions%2F171991%2Fvoltag
e-divider-increasing-resistor-value-for-solar-
tracker&psig=AOvVaw0qwydlDfGZsWR6sK2AhZWQ&ust=1567525766267130&ictx=3&uact=3
4. https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy13osti/57251.pdf

19. THANK YOU

20. Artist’s impression