Introduction to Dual Axis Solar Tracker
Solar tracking technology helps maximize the amount of sunlight absorbed by photovoltaic panels by rotating them to face the sun throughout the day. Conventionally, single-axis tracking systems are used which rotate the panels east to west. However, these systems are unable to account for the sun’s position in relation to latitude and seasonal changes. This results in some power loss. Dual-axis tracking systems address these limitations by being able to tilt and rotate the panels for an optimum sun-facing position year-round.
How Dual Dual Axis Solar Tracker Works
Dual Axis Solar Tracker have motors and control mechanisms that allow both the tilt and azimuth angle of the panels to be adjusted independently. The tracker’s control system uses algorithms that take into account the panel’s location data like latitude, longitude and time. Based on this it determines the sun’s position in the sky at any given moment. Electric motors then precisely maneuver the panels on their north-south and east-west axes to match the sun-facing orientation.
Some trackers may use sensors like photodiodes, GPS modules or cloud cameras for real-time solar positioning feedback to the control system. Advanced models incorporate solar mapping and forecast data for anticipating the sun’s path. This allows the panels to be tilted and oriented in the optimum position a few minutes before the sun reaches that point.
Advantages over Fixed and Single-Axis Trackers
Dual-axis trackers provide significant gains over fixed-tilt and single-axis systems. As per the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the energy yield from dual-axis tracking can be 25–30% more than fixed tilt and 10–20% more than single-axis.
The year-round sun-facing ability allows harnessing direct sunlight for longer periods each day as well as capturing more light during dawn, dusk and times when the sun is not directly overhead. This results in a higher capacity factor. Seasonal variabilities are better accounted for, reducing winter power losses.
The independently tilting and rotating motion also helps avoid self-shading between panels even as the sun moves. Greater ground coverage is possible with dual-axis arrangements that optimize the available space. Overall system costs are offset by the higher and more consistent energy production over time.
Mechanical Design Considerations
Reliable operation over many years in varying weather conditions requires a rugged mechanical design. Key factors include using weather-resistant materials, watertight electrical enclosures, corrosion protection and stow-tight joints that prevent loosening from wind forces.
Frame structures need to be sturdy enough to safely support multiple solar panels and resist high wind and snow loads. Moving components like motors and bearings are selected to withstand extreme temperatures and high cycle counts. Backup gearing and braking prevent drift when power is lost.
Control System Architecture
The control electronics form the ‘brain’ that orchestrate the sun-tracking movements. Microcontrollers running sun-positional algorithms handle low-level motor control. Network connectivity allows remote monitoring and updating the tracking software.
Communication protocols standardize data collection from sensors and issuing commands. Battery backups ensure uninterrupted operation during outages. Diagnostic tools help troubleshoot mechanical or software issues remotely to minimize downtime. Over-the-air updates facilitate improvements and new features over the lifetime of the tracker.
Applications and Compatibility with Other Technologies
Due to their higher energy yields, dual-axis trackers are increasingly being utilized in large-scale solar farms and community solar installations. They complement other technologies to maximize returns from renewable investments.
tracker foundations are engineered to structurally support heavy photovoltaic panels suited for trackers. Specialized mounting hardware streamlines installation and maintenance. Compatibility with bifacial solar modules further boosts output by enabling light capture from both sides of the panels.
As PV panel efficiency increases, dual-axis tracking helps fully leverage those gains. Integrating trackers with battery storage allows capturing and time-shifting the extra solar generation for off-peak usage. They synergize with solar+agriculture projects by tracking above specialty crop fields or livestock grazing areas.
Overall, dual-axis solar tracking delivers significant advantages over fixed and single-axis systems. By optimally following the sun all year its ability to maximize energy production makes project investment more viable. As the technology matures and systems become more intelligent, dual-axis tracking will play an increasingly important role in scaling up renewable deployments globally. Its benefits will accelerate the transition to sustainable solar power generation.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it