Dual Axis

1. Maximizing Solar Energy Output
with Automated Sun Tracking
Technology
GUIDE:
Dr. S. Suresh (ME, PhD)
Assistant Professor
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Team Members:
Akash. C - 962820114003
Anson Antony. S - 962820114006
Antony Arsnal. A - 962820114007

2. INTRODUCTION
• Solar power has become an increasingly popular choice. However, to
maximize solar energy output, it's essential to optimize the positioning of
solar panels to capture the most sunlight possible.
• This positioning problem results in decrease of their efficiency. Thus to
get a constant output, an automated system is required which should be
capable to constantly rotate the solar panel.
• Automated sun tracking technology is one solution to this challenge,
allowing solar panels to follow the sun's movements throughout the day.
• The Automatic Solar Tracking System (ASTS) was made as a prototype to
solve the problem, mentioned above.

3. ABSTRACT
• An innovative design of a dual axis solar tracking system is presented in this
project, utilizing a four quadrant light dependent resistor (L.D.R) for
automation.
• The system actively tracks solar radiation to optimize panel positioning and
maximize power output.
• Emphasis is placed on simulation and implementation of an efficient
algorithm for the dual axis tracker, which rotates in both azimuth and
elevation directions.
• The simulation enables the panel to absorb maximum solar irradiation
through hemispherical rotation, resulting in increased electricity generation.

4. LITERATURE
• A study by Eltawil and Zhao investigated the performance of a single-axis sun
tracking system using a microcontroller-based algorithm.
• The study found that the system was able to improve energy output by up to 36%
compared to a stationary system.
• A study by Kaldellis and Zafirakis evaluated a dual-axis sun tracking system and
found that it was able to improve energy output by up to 45%.
• In recent years, advances in technology have led to the development of more
sophisticated automated sun tracking systems.

5.  A study by Salmi et al. proposed a hybrid tracking system that combined both astronomical and
horizon sensors to track the sun's movements.
 The study found that the hybrid system was able to improve energy output by up to 41%
compared to a stationary system.
 Other studies have focused on the use of different sensor types to improve the accuracy and
reliability of automated sun tracking systems.
 For example, a study by Ahmed et al. investigated the use of a pyranometer sensor to measure
solar irradiance and control a dual-axis sun tracking system.
 The study found that the use of the pyranometer sensor improved the accuracy of the system
and resulted in a 29% increase in energy output compared to a stationary system.

6. PROPOSED SYSTEM

7. EXPECTED OUTPUT
• To detect sun position using sensors
• To Rotate the panel position in alignment with the sun
• To improve solar power extraction efficiency

8. REFERENCES
• Eltawil, M. A., & Zhao, Z. MPPT techniques for photovoltaic applications. Renewable
and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 14(1), 242-249
• Kaldellis, J. K., & Zafirakis, D. Optimum sizing of stand-alone photovoltaic power
systems using genetic algorithms and fuzzy logic. Solar Energy, 85(12), 3084-3102.
• Salmi, T., Bouzguenda, M., Gastli, A., & Masmoudi, A. Design and simulation of a
photovoltaic water pumping system. Renewable Energy, 50, 584-594.
• Ahmed, S., Chen, J., Wu, H., & Qiu, X. A low-cost dual-axis sun tracker based on
pyranometer sensor. Applied Energy, 185, 2219-2226.

9. COMPONENTS USED
Servo Motors Light Dependent Resistor

10. MicroController Acrylic Sheets

11. COMPONENT USES:
1. Servo Motors:
It control the position, velocity, and acceleration of mechanical components
2. Light Dependent Resistor (LDR):
Light Dependent Resistors (LDRs) can be used to detect the presence or
absence of light, and to control the behavior of other components based on this
information.
3. Acrylic Sheets:
In a dual-axis solar tracker, the solar panel array is mounted on a frame that
rotates on two axes to track the sun's movement throughout the day. The acrylic
sheets are mounted on the top of the frame and cover the solar panels.
Benefits of using Acrylic Sheets:
 Weather resistance
 Light-weight
 High Durability

12. THANK
YOU!