Researchers in India have developed two optimization techniques for ZonnetRacker, can increase the power generation by a maximum of 54.36% when combined. One uses a light sensor and the other is based on data from GPS and a real -time clock.
A research team led by scientists from India’s Andhra University has developed two new hybrid-integrated tracking algorithms for dual-axis Solar Tracking Systems (Dasts). The team has simulated and built an experimental setup in which both were tested. One algorithm is based on a light sensor, while the other acquires its data from GPS and real -time clock (RTC) modules.
“Conventional dasts exhibit a higher PV output power than fixed and a few ash configurations;, however, challenges such as system complexity, tracking errors, incorrect alignment and increased energy consumption require further optimization,” the group said. “To tackle these limitations, this article proposes new hybrid-integrated tracking algorithms and assesses their impact on PV system performance, output power and batteryone load (SOC) retention.”
To optimize the system and before an experimental setup was made, the AutoCAD team used for design and proteus for simulation. In the case of the algorithm with the name Dasts-Hybrid standing combination, light sensors were used to detect sunlight, and then calculated mathematical comparisons where the sun should be and position the PV panel accordingly, using a microcontroller. The contra-weight used and DC engines that worked in continuous mode or semi-continuous mode.
Regarding the integrated dasts-GPS algorithm, in this case GPS and RTC components were simulated instead of light sensors. With the help of the data from both GPS and RTC, the microcontroller used formulas to calculate the corner of the sun, so that the tilt and azimut of the panels change accordingly. A prototype was built after the examination of this. They used 15 W PV panels, a gearbox, a 12 V, 14 AH battery and mechanical counterweights. Moreover, a newly designed light sensor was also used to minimize follow -up errors of sensorgeometry.
“The results indicate that, compared to a fixed PV panel that is placed on optimal annual azimut and tilt corners, the conventional dasts increases the current generation of 54.36% with a decrease of 18.12% in SOC of the battery,” the scientist said. In comparison with conventional dasts, further improvements were observed with hybrid tracking methods using the new innovative design of light sensors.
According to the results, the Dasts-Hybrid standing combination with continuous tracking mode improves the power by 38.69%, while the SOC of the battery is reduced by 19.29%. The Dasts-Hybrid standing combination with semi-continuous tracking mode improves the power by 21.54% with a decrease of 16.39% in SOC of the battery. The integrated algorithm from Dasts-GPS shows an increase in the electricity generation by 27%, corresponding to a decrease in the SOC of the battery of 15.21%.
“Errors when keeping a loss are introduced at 10 am to investigate system stability, which shows that significant power fluctuations occur when a fixed PV panel is used as a reference-connected system, while the integrated algorithm approach to Dasts-GPs enforced a more stable power profile,” they added. “The impact of mechanical weights on the preservation of the SOC battery is also being investigated, which shows a 15% energy consumption reduction on all tracking strategies when mechanical weights are used.”
The results were presented in “Performance improvement of photovoltaic panels via hybrid-integrated tracking algorithms“Published in Renewable energy. Researchers from Indian Andhra University and the Australian Federation Australia participated in the study.
This content is protected by copyright and may not be reused. If you want to work with us and reuse part of our content, please contact: editors@pv-magazine.com.
