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Simulation and Optimization of a Dual-Axis Solar Tracking Mechanism

Author

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  • Cătălin Alexandru

    (Department of Product Design, Mechatronics and Environment, Transilvania University of Brașov, 500036 Brașov, Romania)

Abstract

The work deals with the simulation and optimization of a tracking mechanism used to increase the efficiency of photovoltaic (PV) systems. The proposed solar tracker is one with two degrees of freedom (so called dual-axis, or bi-axial), of the equatorial/polar type. The actuation of the tracking system is carried out with two linear actuators, one for each of the two movements. The study is carried out using a virtual prototyping platform that integrates, into a mechatronic concept, the commercial software packages ADAMS and EASY5. The optimization process is approached from three points of view, which target the mechanical device, the control system, and the bi-axial tracking program. All these optimization processes positively influence, in a specific way, the energy efficiency of the tracking system, which was comprehensively evaluated considering the data specific to the longest light-day of the year (i.e., summer solstice), where a net energy gain of 58.66% (by reference to the equivalent fixed system) was obtained. Similar numerical simulations corresponding to several representative days of the year have revealed that the annual net energy gain is around 42%, which fully justifies the use of the proposed tracking system.

Suggested Citation

  • Cătălin Alexandru, 2024. "Simulation and Optimization of a Dual-Axis Solar Tracking Mechanism," Mathematics, MDPI, vol. 12(7), pages 1-32, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jmathe:v:12:y:2024:i:7:p:1034-:d:1367198
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Macedon Moldovan & Bogdan Gabriel Burduhos & Ion Visa, 2023. "Efficiency Assessment of Five Types of Photovoltaic Modules Installed on a Fixed and on a Dual-Axis Solar-Tracked Platform," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(3), pages 1-21, January.
    2. Sebastijan Seme & Bojan Štumberger & Miralem Hadžiselimović & Klemen Sredenšek, 2020. "Solar Photovoltaic Tracking Systems for Electricity Generation: A Review," Energies, MDPI, vol. 13(16), pages 1-24, August.
    3. Pirayawaraporn, Alongkorn & Sappaniran, Sahapol & Nooraksa, Sarawin & Prommai, Chanon & Chindakham, Nachaya & Jamroen, Chaowanan, 2023. "Innovative sensorless dual-axis solar tracking system using particle filter," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 338(C).
    4. Tuğçe Demirdelen & Hakan Alıcı & Burak Esenboğa & Manolya Güldürek, 2023. "Performance and Economic Analysis of Designed Different Solar Tracking Systems for Mediterranean Climate," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(10), pages 1-23, May.
    5. Garrido, Ruben & Díaz, Arturo, 2016. "Cascade closed-loop control of solar trackers applied to HCPV systems," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 97(C), pages 689-696.
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