Dual-Axis Solar Panel Tracking Controller Simulations

Solar panel tracking systems are designed to improve the efficiency of solar panel power generation by adjusting the position of the panel to be more inline with the sun. Effectively aligning the panel with the sun requires the use of a control system. There are many constraints controllers can be designed around such as motor specifications, tracker weight and dimensions, solar panel specifications, systems with or without sensors, and many others. Controllers can also be designed with many specifications like having smooth rotation, stowing under harsh conditions, response time, automatic resetting, steady-state error, etc. This project aims to design a simulation of a dual-axis solar panel tracking system in order to test different control systems. Utilizing a simulation bypasses time and cost constraints with experimentally tuning and adjusting controllers. A set of different controllers are constructed in the simulation and implemented onto a solar tracker, comparing the angle of incidence with a light source and power generated by the panel.