SINGLE AXIS SOLAR TRACKER

A Project report submitted in partial fulfillment

Of the requirements for the degree of B.Sc in Physics
By
Name Of the Students University Roll No.

Shreya Dutta 203205708589

Sonali Murmu 203205708582
Sandeep Kaur 203205708571

Under the supervision of

HOD Rajendra Jayswal

Department Of Physics

Department Of Physics
JAMSHEDPUR WOMEN’S UNIVERSITY

BISTUPUR CAMPUS, JAMSHEDPUR-831001, JHARKHAND

 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

It is my great fortune that I have got opportunity to

carry out this project work under the supervision of
HOD Rajendra Jayswal in the Department of Physics,
Affiliated to Jamshedpur Women’s University,
Jamshedpur, Jharkhand. I express my sincere thanks
and deepest sense of gratitude to my guide for his
constant support, unparalleled guidance and limitless
encouragement.

I wish to convey my gratitude to HOD Rajendra

Jayswal , Department of Physics and authority of
Jamshedpur Women’s University for providing all kinds
of infrastructural facility towards the research work.

I would also like to convey my gratitude to all the

faculty members and staffs of the Department of Physics
for their whole-hearted cooperation to make this work
turn into reality.

2
 Department of Physics
JAMSHEDPUR WOMENS UNIVERSITY
Bistupur Campus, Jamshedpur, Jharkhand

CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the project work entitled SINGLE
AXIS SOLAR TRACKER is bonafide work carried out
by Sandeep Kaur [203205708571], Shreya Dutta
[203205708589], Sonali Murmu [203205708582],
students of B.Sc in the Dept. of Physics ,Jamshedpur
Womens’s University, Jamshedpur, Jharkhand ,during
the academic year 2020-23 , in partial fulfillment of the
requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Science and
that this project has not been submitted previously for
the award of any other degree, diploma and fellowship.

Signature of External Examiner Signature of the HOD

Name: Name:
Designation: Designation:

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Page no.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT………………………………………………………… 2

CERTFICATE……………………………………………………………………… 3

INTRODUCTION………………………………………………………………… 5

SYSTEM DESIGN

GEOMETRIC CONSTRAINTS……………………………………………… 6

SUSTAINABILITY……………………………………………………………… 7

ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN………………................................... 8

SOCIAL IMPACT………………………………………………………………. 9

ECONOMIC……………………………………………………………………… 10

SAFETY…………………………………………………………………………… 11

ETHICS………………………………………………………………………….. 12

NEED OF SOLAR TRACKER…………………………………………………. 13

TYPES OFSOLAR TRACKING SYSTEM…………………………………… 14

ADVANTAGES…………………………………………………………………… 15

SINGLE AXIS SOLAR TRACKER……………………………………………… 16-17

DIAGRAM…………………………………………………………………………… 18

COMPONENTS USE…………………………………………………………….. 19

FUNCTIONS……………………………………………………………………….. 20-23

CIRCUIT DIAGRAM……………………………………………………………… 24

WORKING………………………………………………………………………….. 25-26

SCOPE……………………………………………………………………………….. 27

DEMERITS………………………………………………………………………….. 28

APPLICATIONS……………………………………………………………………. 29

CONCLUSION……………………………………………………………………... 31

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 INTRODUCTION

OBJECTIVES

SYSTEM DESIGNS

5
 Design Constraints and Design
Methodology

GEOMETRIC CONSTRAINTS

The second we decide the single axis solar axis tracking system
for the project there are some constraints that should be taken
under consideration . First of all the major problem was to create
solar tracker system of suitable size that will be easy handle .
The main point which was creating hurdle was that the size of
the single axis solar tracker should not affect the performance
and efficiency of panel . For that, lots of studies were performed
to get well-balanced final product.

SUSTAINABILITY

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As an entire system design to be capable of preserve it self
physically and functionally and it is not simple and fragile
system apart from the solar panels as they require special care.
To make up the expense of the device the system needs to work
for quite a while. The unique characteristics of the system is that
instead of taking the earth as its reference , it takes the sun as the
guiding source. The sunlight is monitored by the active sensors
and rotates the panel towards direction where the intensity of the
sunlight is maximums.

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 ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN

There will be abundant availability of solar energy in the nature

because the sun emits energy at an extremely large rate . The
world’s energy demand could be fulfilled if all the solar energy
is converted in to usable forms. Solar energy can be converted to
more usable energy forms through solar tracking solar panel.
There is unprecedented interest in renewable energy ,particularly
solar energy. Our project solar tracking solar panel highlights
the use of abundant source of energy particularly in Saudi
Arabia which is going wasted on use.

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 SOCIAL IMPACT

On one hand we can see that the world’s energy resources

depletion will be one of the major problems and on other hand
we know that global warming is major concern of the world .
But solar energy which we can gain from solar panel , we can
gain maximum energy which is clean and green and improving
its efficiency by using sun trackers is a great option in near
future.

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 ECONOMIC

The major constraint of the project was the financial concerns

related with the creation of the system .Solar energy can reduce
the electricity bills of households since solar energy can be used
to supplement of the resources of energy . One might install a
solar tracking system with a solar panel considering the
advantages like the efficiency increases by 20-60% that is
equivalent to more money. The space requirement is reduced for
solar park and they sustain the same output the profit time of the
investment is reduced . Long-term maintenance concerns for
tracking systems are drastically reduced by advancement in
technology and reliability in electronics and mechanism.

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 SAFETY

Our design has also been planned to sustain safety at all times
during its functional life span . The solar tracking solar panel
system is securely mounted to prevent it from becoming a
failing hazard .

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 ETHICS

Solar tracking solar panel designs and models are already in use
in markets and in our daily life but we intend to present this
solar tracking solar panel system with some modifications in it .
The aim of this project is to ensure the sunlight rays are falling
perpendicularly on the solar panel to give the maximum solar
energy . An automated system is required to get a constant
output, which should be capable to constantly rotate the solar
panel . The solar tracking system was made as a prototype to
solve the problem . It will be automatic and keeps the panel in
forward-facing of sun until that is visible.

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 NEED OF SOLAR TRACKER
Rotationally every season comes with its
translation movements which affect the cycles of
day-night and the temperature differences around
the world . Electromagnetic radiation depends on
these movements . These radiations will change
depending on the latitude and the time of the year
. The image shows the angle of incidence of sun
rays at noon and on a horizontal surface in winter
and summer . Thus ,daily solar orientations vary
depending on the latitude and they directly affect
the angle of incidence of sun rays . This angle of
incidence is a key point in producing solar energy .

Therefore ,a Solar Tracking System is

essential to know the exact orientation and
inclination of our location.

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 TYPES OF SOLAR TRACKING SYSTEM

As per the mode of motions , the solar tracking system is

classified into two types,

 Single-axis solar tracking system

 Dual-axis solar tracking system

There are two horizontal axes and one vertical axis for a
moving surface, The surface rotates around each axis to get
the right angle for receiving the maximum sunlight.

In a Single-axis tracking system , the adjustment of the

surface happens around only one axis. And in the dual-axis
tracking system, the rotation of the surface happens by
rotating around two axes simultaneously

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 ADVANTAGES OF SOLAR TRACKING
SYSTEM
1) Trackers generate more electricity than their stationary
counterparts due to increased direct exposure to solar rays .
This increase can be as much as 10 to 25% depending on the
geographic location of the tracking system.

2) There are many different kinds of solar trackers, such as

single-axis and dual-axis trackers , all of which can be the
perfect fit for a unique jobsite .Installation size , local
weather, degree of latitude and electrical requirements are
all important considerations that can influence the type of
solar tracker best suited for a specific solar installation.

3) Solar trackers generate more electricity in roughly the same

amount of space needed for fixed-tilt systems ,making them
ideal for optimizing land usage.

4) In certain states , some utilities offer Time of Use (TOU)

rate plans for solar power, which means the utility will
purchase the power generated during the peak time of the
day at a higher rate . In this case, it is beneficial to generate
a greater amount of electricity during these peak times of
the day. Using a tracking system helps maximize the energy
gains during these peak time periods.

5) Advancements in technology and reliability in electronics and

mechanics have drastically reduced long-term maintenance
concerns for tracking systems.

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 SINGLE AXIS SOLAR TRACKER

A single axis solar tracker system is a system that follows the

light according to its intensity. Usually, solar panels are steady
and always the front face of the sun rises in direction . This
causes less amount of light incident on it . At the time of
afternoon and evening when we will use this amazing solar
tracker . It will move in the direction of the sun and catch more
amount of light.
The single axis solar tracker project is a very good example of a
mini project .
 Single axis solar tracker is just a system that follows the
sunlight , By using this system we can make more power
collected through the sunlight by the solar system.
 This system has a solar panel on it , all the systems track
the light in two directions . For example , if the sun rises in
the morning the system moves toward the same direction
and for the evening also.

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 Now the sunset is in the opposite direction so the system
will also move with the sun so the system can get the
maximum power by the sun tracking.
 In solar panels make more power intensity . That means the
solar power converted to electricity is directly proportional
to the intensity of light.
 In solar tracker we use LDR sensor for detecting the light.

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DIAGRAM

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COMPONENTS USE

1) 555 IC WITH BASE

2) L293D IC WITH BASE
3) 2 LDR
4) 2 BATTERY CAP
5) 7805 VOLTAGE REGULATOR
6) 9 VOLT BATTERY
7) 6 VOLT SOLAR PLATE
8) 1K RESISTOR
9) LED
10) SWITCH
11) VARIABLE RESISTOR
12) 104 CAPACITOR (0.1UF)
13) GEAR MOTOR

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FUNCTIONS

555 IC It is an integrated circuit (chip) used in a

variety of timer,delay,pulse generation,and oscillations application.

L293D IC It is designed to provide

bidirectional drive current up to 600-mA at voltages from 405 V to 36

V.

LDR Photoresistors ,also known as light

dependent resistors(LDR) , are light sensitive devices most often used to
indicate the presence or absence of light , or to measure the light
intensity.

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 BATTERY CAP Used to secure battery in
the receiver.

7805 VOLTAGE REGULATOR

It is a type of linear voltage regulator that is commonly used in
electronic circuits . It is a three terminal device that provides a fixed
output voltage of 5V and can handle an input voltage range of 7V and 35
V.

BATTERY A battery is a device that stores

energy and then discharges it by converting chemical energy into
electricity.

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 SOLAR PLATE Solar panel is used to
collect the solar energy which is then used either for the generation of
the electricity or for heating purpose.

LED LED Lights are energy-efficient , long

lasting , and emit less heat.

SWITCH An electric switch is a device

usually electromechanical used to open and close
an electric circuit.

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VARIABLE RESISTOR
CAPACITOR
It is a resistor of which the electric It stores electrostatic energy
resistance value can be adjusted. in an electric field and give

this energy to the circuit.It c

blocks direct current while c allows
alternating current to c pass.

GEAR MOTOR
RESISTOR
The function of the gearbox A resistor is an electrical coupled
to the motor is to component that regulates reduce its speed and

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increase the flow of electric current its torque to do a given job
at in an electronic circuit. a given speed.

CIRCUIT DIAGRAM

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 WORKING
 Mounting Structure : Similar to any solar tracking system, the
solar panels are mounted on a structure that can rotate along a
single axis. This axis is usually aligned in the North-South
direction.
 Light sensing module : LDRs are used as light sensors. These are
placed on the solar panel structure to detect intensity of sunlight.
 Control Circuit : The control circuit consists of a 555 timer IC, a
10K potentiometer and a voltage regulator. This circuitry is
responsible for measuring the intensity of light and adjusting the
position of solar panel accordingly.
 Charging and Discharging of capacitor : The LDR is connected to
the 555 timer IC. As the intensity of light changes, affecting the
charging and discharging of the capacitor in the timer circuit.
 Comparator circuit : The 555 timer IC includes a comparator
circuit that compares the voltage across the capacitor with a
reference voltage. Based on this comparison, the output of the IC is
determined.
 Adjusting the solar panel position : The output of the 555 timer IC
is connected to the L293D motor driver IC. The motor driver IC
controls the rotation of the gear motor, which adjusts the position
of the solar panels based on the output of the 555 timer IC.
Depending on the output, the motor will rotate the panel structure
to align it with the sun’s position.

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  LED indication : An LED light is connected to the output of the
555 timer IC, providing a visual indication of whether the solar
panels are correctly aligned.
 Power supply : The system is powered by a 9 Volt battery, which
is regulated using a voltage regulator to provide a stable voltage to
the circuit components.
 Potentiometer adjustment : The 10K potentiometer is used to
adjust the sensitivity of the system. By changing its resistance, the
reference voltage for the comparator circuit can be set. This allows
for the adjustment of the tracking algorithm to optimize tracking
accuracy.
 Continuous Tracking : The control circuit continuously measures
the light intensity using the LDR, charges or discharges the
capacitor accordingly , and adjusts the position of the solar panels
based on the output of the 555 timer IC. This ensures that the solar
panels are always facing sun and maximizing their energy output.
 PCB board :The circuit components are connected using a PCB
board to provide a neat and organized layout of the circuitry.

SCOPE OF WORK

Solar tracking system has always proved to be an effective way

to generate more energy because it helps the solar panel remain
exactly in front of the solar rays . The concept behind these
researches is that it is a fact that the sun keep on moving across
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the sky , the whole day long therefore it’s a good idea to track its
location so that the solar panel can remain exactly in front of it
absorbing more power . By applying this concept tracking
systems were designed which help increase the amount of
energy a solar panel may accumulate .Solar panel is connecting
with servo motor.

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DEMERITS
 Solar trackers are slightly more expensive than their stationary
counterparts, due to the more complex technology and moving
parts necessary for their operation.
 Even with the advancements in reliability, there is generally more
maintenance required than a traditional fixed rack, though the
quality of the solar tracker can play a role in how much and how
often this maintenance is needed.
 Trackers are a more complex system than fixed racking. This
means that typically more site preparation is needed, including
additional teaching for wiring and some additional grading.
 Single-axis tracker projects also require an additional focus on
company stability and bankability. When it comes to getting
projects financed, these systems are more complex and thus are
seen as a higher risk from a financier’s view point.
 Solar trackers are generally designed for climates with little to no
snow making them a more viable solution in warmer climates.
Fixed racking accommodates harsher environmental conditions
more easily than tracking systems.

APPLICATIONS
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1) These panels can be used to power traffic lights and
streetlights.
2) These can be used in home to power the appliances using
solar power.
3) These can be used in industries as more energy can be
saved by rotating the panel.

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How Is a Single Axis Solar Tracker Better than
a Dual Axis Solar Tracker ?

Regarding efficiency and functionality, dual axis trackers are

more effective than single-axis trackers. But that does not mean
the single-axis trackers are pointless to buy.
The following are few reasons that make single-axis trackers
better than dual-axis trackers in some ways . Let’s get some one
by one.
• If the module design is considered, single-axis trackers
have a simple design.
• A single-axis tracker is cheaper than dual-axis trackers.
• Since the cost is reasonable, it is more in demand than the
dual-axis trackers.
• A single-axis tracking system needs more maintenance than
solar panels as occasionally. But if compared with dual-
axis trackers, they require less cleaning.

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 CONCLUSION

1. Solar trackers are more efficient than ordinary panels.

2. Being environmentally friendly, solar power generators
and panels are reasonably easy, safe and convenient to
install.
3. Hence enhanching the solar powered systems with
intelligent trackers proves to be the optimal solution for
utilizing the available solar energy.
4. The solar tracker can be still enhanced by adding special
features in terms of protection from rain and wind in the
future work.

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 REFERENCES
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2013.”Improvement of PV Systems Power Output Using Sun-Tracking
Techniques.”International Journal of Computational Engineering
Research 3 (9): 80-98

[2] Batayneh, W., A. Owais, and M.Nairoukh. 2013. “An intelligent

Fuzzy Based Tracking Controller for a Dual-axis Solar PV System.”
Automatic in Construction 29 (2013).

[3] Dhanabal, R., V. Bharathi, R. Ranjitha, A. Ponni, S. Deepthi, and P.

Magehkannan. 2013”Comparison of Efficiencies of Solar Tracker
Systemswith Static Panel Single Axis Tracking System and Dual Axis
Tracking System with Fixed Mount.” International Journal of
Engineering and Technology (IJET) 5 (2):1925-1933.

[4] Ganesh,N. Jeya, S. Maniprakash, L. Chandrasekaran ,S. M.

Srinivasan, and A. R. Srinivasa. 2011. “Design and Development of a
Sun Tracking Mechanism Using the Direct SMA Actuation.” Journal of
Mechanical Design 133 (1): 1-14

[5] Gupta, Bhupendra, Neha Sonkar, Brahman Singh Bhalavi, and J.

Pankaj Edla. 2013. “Design, Construction and Effictiveness Analysis of
HybridAutomatic Solar Tracking System for Amorphous and Crystalline
Solar Cells.”American Journal of Engineering Research 2(10):221-228.

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