Designing and Optimizing the Control System for a Pseudo-Azimuthal Sun Tracker

Abstract

Increasing the conversion efficiency of solar energy into electricity is one of the most addressed topics in the field of renewable energy systems. This study is focused on the optimal design of the control system for a pseudo-azimuthal sun tracker, which is used to move a platform of PV strings. The tracking system is approached in a mechatronic concept, by integrating the control system and the mechanical device at the virtual prototype level. The optimization is performed by using the parametric design technique, the design variables for optimization being the amplification factors of the controllers. The optimization study leads to the maximization of the incident solar radiation gain by minimizing the tracking errors.