scholarly journals Sensorless dual axis solar tracker using improved sun position algorithm

Author(s):  
Chan Men Loon ◽  
Muhamad Zalani Daud

This paper presents development of a prototype sensorless dual axis solar tracker for maximum extraction of solar energy. To prove the concept and evaluate the proposed algorithm, a low cost widely availabe materials were used which was programmed based on Arduino microcontroller. The porposed algorithm works based on two search methods namely the global search that approximates the best point location in a region, and local search that further determines the actual sun’s position. Experimental results showed that the proposed algorithm gives better performance compared to the existing sun position algorithm (SPA) - based method as well as the fixed panel system. In terms of total output power, the proposed algorithm gives 17.96% more efficient than the fixed system and 6.38% better than the SPA-based system. Furthermore, the percentage error of the experimental measured angle to the actual sun azimuth angle was relatively minimal (less than 3%) during clear day operation. The system was proven to be effective in tracking the sun for improved energy production of solar PV panels and the proposed algorithm also can be used for designing the tracker with larger size of solar PV systems.

Author(s):  
Olufunmilola Atilola ◽  
Joseph Goodman ◽  
Kathryn Nagel ◽  
Julie Linsey

Biologically inspired design is the process of using biological systems as analogues to develop innovative solutions for engineering problems. This paper describes an effective and successful implementation of problem-driven biologically inspired design in a real-world problem. In support of the Department of Energy SunShot Initiative, a national collaborative effort to make solar energy cost-competitive with other forms of electricity by the end of the decade, solar panel designs were carried out by engineering and architectural design teams. Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems were developed using analogical design, and more specifically, bio-inspired design. Some systems were also designed using non-biological analogues. Functional decompositions were employed as the first step in the design process, as a way to identify the key functions essential to the system’s reliability and cost effectiveness. Six key functions were identified. Analysis of the final designs by the teams showed that the solar panel system designs using biologically inspired analogues were more effective in meeting the six key functions identified during functional decomposition. Employing a combination of divergent and convergent design thinking is also discussed as a way for effective biologically inspired design. The top three designs selected for prototyping were biologically inspired and exceeded the project goal of reducing the installation and labor costs of solar PV systems by 50%.


2012 ◽  
Author(s):  
Firdaus Muhammad Sukki ◽  
Roberto Ramirez Iniguez ◽  
Scott G. Mcmeekin ◽  
Brian G. Stewart ◽  
Barry Clive

Solar energy has become a matter of global attention in the past few years. This paper explores the use and benefit of solar concentrators in the solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. First, a short literature review of previous research on the usage of solar concentrators in improving solar PV system performance and reducing the cost of implementation is presented. This is followed by an overview of SolarBrane, an example of a Building Integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) system which uses an optical concentrator in the solar PV design. An optimised design of the SolarBrane is also discussed afterwards. A financial benefit study is conducted to compare the average return of investment of using the optimised SolarBrane and traditional solar PV installed in Malaysia’s environment. SolarBrane has proven to be a good alternative to achieve costeffective solar PV system. The financial analysis simulated under the new Malaysian Feed–In Tariff scheme indicates that the optimised SolarBrane could potentially reduce the initial cost of implementation by 40% and generate higher return, close to 20%, when compared to traditional solar PV systems. Key words: Solar photovoltaic; solar concentrator; solarBrane; dielectric totally internally reflecting concentrator; financial analysis


2018 ◽  
Vol 7 (3) ◽  
pp. 191-197 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kashif Javed ◽  
Haroon Ashfaq ◽  
Rajveer Singh

Small solar PV systems mostly residential PV systems are bounded to be low cost. So these systems are required low-cost processors, and these low-cost processors can only process simple algorithm efficiently. The conventional P&O MPPT algorithm is widely employed algorithm to control solar PV systems because of its simplicity, low cost, and ease of implementation. During rapid radiation change condition (RRC) the output voltage of conventional P&O MPPT algorithm is found unstable and suffers oscillations around MPP at transient and steady state conditions. This paper proposes a simple MPPT algorithm for small or residential solar PV systems to eliminate such above said drawbacks. The proposed MPPT controls the step size (dD) of the boost converter duty cycle (D) according to the system input conditions and have the ability to compensate the transient as well as steady-state oscillations around MPP and stabilize the output voltage under RRC and variable load conditions. To validate the proposed algorithm, a 1kW photovoltaic system model is simulated using MATLAB/Simulink, and the performance of the system is also investigated under RRC. The performance of proposed MPPT algorithm is found to be adequate under various insolation patterns. An experimental set-up comprising a boost converter, solar emulator with dSPACE controller is also used to investigate the performance of proposed MPPT algorithm further.Article History: Received October 4th 2017; Received in revised form September 15th 2018; Accepted November 1st 2018; Available onlineHow to Cite This Article: Javed, K. Ashfaq, H and Singh, R. (2018). An Improved MPPT Algorithm to Minimize Transient and Steady State Oscillation Conditions for Small SPV Systems. International Journal of Renewable Energy Development, 7(3), 191-197.http://dx.doi.org/10.14710/ijred.7.3.191-197


2011 ◽  
Vol 133 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Michael Gnos ◽  
Brenton Greska ◽  
Anjaneyulu Krothapalli

A low cost pyrheliometer, based on a thermoelectric sensor, was developed at the Energy and Sustainability Center at the Florida State University. In addition, an inexpensive double-axis tracking device, capable of autonomous operation, enables the pyrheliometer to operate as a stand-alone system. Widely available off-the-shelf components were used and compromises in accuracy and time responsiveness were made in order to keep the cost low. The obtained data was compared with an Eppley Normal Incidence Pyrheliometer (NIP) using model ST-1 solar tracker. Steady state values of irradiance were measured with an accuracy better than ±2%. Transient measurements are time delayed by a thermal lag of about 2 min, which leads to a high error for instantaneous measured values. However, the integrated irradiance over the course of any given day yields irradiation values with accuracy better than ±2%, even on days when the sun and clouds quickly alternate. Based on a manufacturing cost analysis, the prototype pyrheliometer system is anticipated to cost an order of magnitude less than commercially available products if mass-produced.


The Solar PV modules are usually engaged in dusty environments which are the condition in many tropical countries like India. The dirt gets hoarded on the superficial of the PV module and chunks the photons from the sun. It decreases the generation ability of the PV module. The power output decreases the efficiency, if the PV module is not cleaned for a long time. In order to habitually clean the dust, an automatic cleaning system has been proposed, which senses the light energy from the sun on the solar panel and also cleans the PV module automatically. This system is realized with PIC16F877A microcontroller which controls the geared servo motor. This system consists of a sensor (LDR) to make it dusk to dawn. While for cleaning the PV modules, a mechanism consists of a sliding wipers has been developed. In earlier machinery, cleaning of PV panels was done manually. But here the PV panels has been cleaned by automatic system i.e. wiping mechanism with water flow for effective cleaning


Author(s):  
Thirupathaiah M

Renewable Energy Sources (RES) such as Solar Photovoltaic (PV) became more popular over the last decade due to increasing environmental awareness and tax exemption policies on the solar PV systems. Integration of solar PV using various smart load management techniques will boost the efficiency of the overall system by reducing the massive cost of electricity bills. There is a need to find efficient and expert ways to enjoy these RES exclusively. Besides providing the connection between different loads, this system has the ability to collect information and execute control commands for the households by providing continuous observations and information about both load and supply profile, convincing the end user to take preventive measures by switching the auxiliary load to save power. This paper presents implementation of a low cost Solar based DC grid using Arduino. In the proposed system, the node which acts as a microcontroller reads the power consumption by the loads in each unit through current sensor. When the excess amount of power is consumed at particular unit, the controller makes the relay cut off the supply to the loads, which will be continuously displayed through LCD. This DC based power system helps to eliminate the requirement of converters systems, reducing converter cost, power system complexity, improve efficiency and reliability.


Author(s):  
Michael Gnos ◽  
Brenton Greska ◽  
Anjaneyulu Krothapalli

A low cost pyrheliometer, based on a thermoelectric sensor, was developed at the Energy and Sustainability Center at the Florida State University. In addition, an inexpensive double-axis tracking device, capable of autonomous operation, enables the pyrheliometer to operate as a stand-alone system. Widely available off-the-shelf components were used and compromises in accuracy and time responsiveness were made in order to keep the cost low. The obtained data was compared with an Eppley Normal Incidence Pyrheliometer (NIP) using model ST-1 solar tracker. Steady state values of irradiance were measured with an accuracy better than ±2%. Transient measurements are time delayed by a thermal lag of about two minutes, which leads to a high error for instantaneous measured values. However, the integrated irradiance over the course of any given day yields irradiation values with accuracy better than ±2%, even on days when the sun and clouds quickly alternate. Based on a manufacturing cost analysis, the prototype pyrheliometer is anticipated to cost less than $500 if mass-produced.


2018 ◽  
Vol 1 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
IJE Manager

In the past century, fossil fuels have dominated energy supply in Indonesia. However, concerns over emissions are likely to change the future energy supply. As people become more conscious of environmental issues, alternatives for energy are sought to reduce the environmental impacts. These include renewable energy (RE) sources such as solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. However, most RE sources like solar PV are not available continuously since they depend on weather conditions, in addition to geographical location. Bali has a stable and long sunny day with 12 hours of daylight throughout the year and an average insolation of 5.3 kWh/m2 per day. This study looks at the potential for on-grid solar PV to decarbonize energy in Bali. A site selection methodology using GIS is applied to measure solar PV potential. Firstly, the study investigates the boundaries related to environmental acceptability and economic objectives for land use in Bali. Secondly, the potential of solar energy is estimated by defining the suitable areas, given the technical assumptions of solar PV. Finally, the study extends the analysis to calculate the reduction in emissions when the calculated potential is installed. Some technical factors, such as tilting solar, and intermittency throughout the day, are outside the scope of this study. Based on this model, Bali has an annual electricity potential for 32-53 TWh from solar PV using amorphous thin-film silicon as the cheapest option. This potential amount to three times the electricity supply for the island in 2024 which is estimated at 10 TWh. Bali has an excessive potential to support its own electricity demand with renewables, however, some limitations exist with some trade-offs to realize the idea. These results aim to build a developmental vision of solar PV systems in Bali based on available land and the region’s irradiation.


2017 ◽  
Vol 1 (2) ◽  
pp. 34
Author(s):  
Zulkarnain Zulkarnain ◽  
Nadjadji Anwar

The Research Center and Development of Water (Puslitbang) is currently developing the Submerged Breakwater in shallow sea area (PEGAR). The author is interested to examine the material that easily obtained in the field of RCP concrete cylinder. The observation is how it to be ability in function as submerged breakwater an go green and low cost. The physical model of wave transmission test is how the response to the structure in ability to damping of wave as the breakwater function. In this research breakwater used is submerged breakwater type by using concrete cylinder (buis beton). The purpose from this research is to know how the response of breakwater structure to the waves through it, with some variation of the structure by creating a structure with three variations of the arrangement and freeboard that is the relative depth with the crest width is constant. The wave generated test in this study is using regular waves in wave flume at FTSP Civil Engineering Department of Institute Technology Ten November. From the analysis of the effect of the installation of submerged breakwater by using concrete cylinder to the wave damping value, it can be concluded that the factors that are very influential is the freeboard and the composition of concrete cylinder. Scenario A (rigid vertical massive) is capable of producing the smallest value of kt is 0.33. As for scenario B (rigid horyzontal massive) with a damping value of 0.5, while the scenario C (rigid permeable) is only able to produce kt value of 0.71. Scenario A is better than scenario B and C Because the position of arrangement of A is very good used to damp wave in small or big freeboard conditions.


Author(s):  
Keyur Mahant ◽  
Hiren Mewada ◽  
Amit Patel ◽  
Alpesh Vala ◽  
Jitendra Chaudhari

Aim: In this article, wideband substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) and rectangular waveguide (RWG) transition operating in Ka-band is proposed Objective: In this article, wideband substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) and rectangular waveguide (RWG) transition operating in Ka-band is proposed. Method: Coupling patch etched on the SIW cavity to couple the electromagnetic energy from SIW to RWG. Moreover, metasurface is introduced into the radiating patch to enhance bandwidth. To verify the functionality of the proposed structure back to back transition is designed and fabricated on a single layer substrate using standard printed circuit board (PCB) fabrication technology. Results: Measured results matches with the simulation results, measured insertion loss is less than 1.2 dB and return loss is better than 3 dB for the frequency range of 28.8 to 36.3 GHz. By fabricating transition with 35 SRRs bandwidth of the proposed transition can be improved. Conclusion: The proposed transition has advantages like compact in size, easy to fabricate, low cost and wide bandwidth. Proposed structure is a good candidate for millimeter wave circuits and systems.


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