Multi-Axel Solar Tracking System Project Proposal ET450 Capstone (13pages)

1. Problem Background and definition: Solar panels are becoming a major source of renewable energy. The use of solar panels in residential locations is becoming more and more prevalent. These panels are installed on a fixed angle depending on the slant or tilt of the roof. They are also designed to be most effective at noon when the sun is at its highest peak and is directly over top of the panels. Studies have shown that the angles range from +90° at sunset, 0° at noon and -90° at sun rise. The difference in solar radiation being collected leads to a solar panel losing approximately 40% of it stored collected energy. 2. Proposed Solution: To build a multi-axel solar tracking system and test the claims that it would give an energy gain of 36-48%. I would conduct an analysis of the two systems one using the tracker and the other hard mounted. This would give me adequate data to compare between the two systems. My hypothesis is that there would be a slight energy gain, but it is not going to be a significate as the claims made during my research. The solar tracker would be constructed using voltage regulator, four diodes, three capacitors, one microcontroller, two motor drivers, these are just some of the components for the circuit. These components would help control the way the solar panel moves with the sun. 3.Conceptual Design: The top design is for the solar panel with the tracker system. The way it will work is I will be adding a step-down transformer from the battery so that the circuit is using 5VDC. This will give the circuit enough power to move the solar panel in the direction needed. 4.Functional Specification: The function of this circuit is when light hits LDR1, LDR2, LDR3, LDR4 it would trigger the motors to move. Motor one or K1 will move left and right depending on where the light hits between LDR1 and LDR2. If more light is at LDR3 and LDR4 the second motor or K2 will move causing the panel to move up and down. If all four light dependent resistors have the same amount of light the solar panel will stay in place. The reason for the variable resistor it to help with the speed of the motors. This will allow me to ensure it is more controlled. 5. Narrative of design: As The sun hits one or more light dependent resistors they will send a signal to the microcontroller to engage one or more of the motors to change the angel of the solar panel until all the LDRs are being affected