Journal of Emerging Trends in Engineering and Applied Sciences: Research Areas

Article Title: Kinematic and Energy Analysis of Single Axis Solar Panel Tracker System (A Comparative Study)
by Muhammad Arif, Javaid Iqbal, Nasir Rashid, and Umer Izhar

Abstract:
Energy needs are becoming more and more complex, especially in underdeveloped countries. The solar energy is one of best solution for increasing demand of energy by mankind. Sun energy can fulfil our domestic and irrigation requirement because fossil fuels are running short day by day. Therefore, it is one of the most important source of energy to explore for its maturity. In this paper, kinematic and energy analysis of two solar trackers panel systems are studied comparatively for maximising efficiency. Structure of model 1(single axis tracker) previously designed was bulky, causing the linear actuator to consume more electrical energy. Kinematic and force analysis of model 1 showed the drawbacks of displaced centre of gravity and excessive energy consumption due to weight of frame which supports the panel. Based on kinematic and force analysis of model 1, new model 2 has been designed in which all the above problems are addressed by shifting the centre of gravity on the axis of rotation, reducing weight of upper frame and readjusting the rotating mechanism. The calculation shows 39.5 % decreased consumption of energy by linear actuator. The new design also reduces material cost by approximately 34%. This research supports only small (Domestic) systems and can be applied to practical projects.

Keywords: solar tracker, single axis tracker, kinematics, dynamics, mechanical design

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