Design and Analysis of Spatial Parallel Manipulator for Dual Axis Solar Tracking

Abstract

This work develops a solar tracker that is configured in a parallel manipulator structure for maximum power generation. The conventional solar tracker with a serial gimbaled structure is simply supported by the central pivot in the module frame of the solar panel, and the structural deformation of the frame causes the PV cells on the side of the panel to be frequently out of focus. Accordingly, the power efficiency of the PV can fall rapidly for each degree of misalignment with respect to the sun. This work introduces a spatial parallel mechanism to increase the rigidity of the solar tracker structure and thereby improve its power efficiency. The prototype mechanism that is demonstrated in this work can feasibly track the sun completely from sunrise to sunset at latitude of 23.7 N degrees. Different tracking postures against the solar hour at the summer solstice, spring equinox, and winter solstice are animated.