Dynamic optimization of a 2-DOF pseudo-equatorial tracking system in virtual prototyping concept

Abstract

The key word for the design process of the photovoltaic tracking systems is the energetic efficiency. Using the tracking system, the photovoltaic panel follows the sun and increase the collected energy, but the driving motors & actuators consume a part of this energy. In these terms, the optimization of the tracking system became an important provocation in the modern research and technology. In this paper, we evaluate a strategy for the dynamic optimization of the photovoltaic tracking systems. The main task in optimization is to maximize the energetic gain by increasing the incoming solar radiation and minimizing the energy consumption for tracking. This strategy is possible by developing the virtual prototype of the tracking system, which is a control loop composed by the multibody mechanical model connected with the dynamic model of the actuators and with the controller model. In this way, we are able to optimize the tracking mechanism, choose the appropriate actuators, and design the optimal controller.