SOLAR TRACKING SYSTEM

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a solar tracking system (100) that comprises a plurality of sensor (102) configured to sense the intensity of sunlight, solar panels (104) configured to receive solar energy from the sun, a microcontroller (106) configured to process data which further comprises a data input module (120) configured to receive data from the plurality of sensors (102), a data processing module (122) configured to process data and determine the maximum intensity of solar energy, an adjustment module (124) configured to adjust the solar panels (104) alignment to capture the determined maximum intensity of solar energy, a self-cleaning module (126) configured to periodically remove dust and debris from the surface of the solar panels (104), output module (128) configured to collect and transmit the data; and a user device (110) connected to microcontroller via a communication network (108) and configured to display the output data.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF DISCLOSURE
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to solar power system, more specifically, relates to sun tracking system based on tracking and self-cleaning mechanism to effectively capture the maximum solar energy.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] In developing nations, solar power system represents a revolutionary approach to utilizing sun's abundant energy and offers a clean renewable energy solution for both environmental benefits and economic advantages. With increasing global energy demand, solar power systems posse's valuable alternative to traditional fossil-fuel based electric generators. These systems provide electricity to remote areas without installing expensive grid infrastructure and enable communities to power schools, hospitals and homes. This technology also supports electric vehicles charging for cleaner transportation system.
[0003] The conventional sun tracking solar power systems offers several limitations that significantly impact the overall efficiency and adsorption of solar energy. Without proper management systems, maximum energy loss takes place during the peak production hours while storing capabilities remain inadequate. These traditional solar power systems face reliable challenges in harsh weather conditions such as heavy rain, snow and dense fog. Poor visibility conditions degrade the processing capabilities and hence, performance of the system.
[0004] Furthermore, the absence of self-cleaning mechanism requires manual maintenance, as the accumulation of dust and debris reduces the light adsorption efficiency and durability of the system.
[0005] The present invention overcomes the drawback of the conventional sun tracking solar power systems by introducing a solar tracking system installed with some advanced modules to track the sun and drive solar panels automatically. Moreover, the present invention is established with a minimal maintenance requirement by featuring an in-built self-cleaning mechanism in order to remove the dust and debris from the panel's surface, hence increasing the light absorption and extend the panel lifespan.
[0006] The present invention has improved significantly with energy storage solutions that allow to store solar energy and provide the continuous flow of energy supply even during cloudy day or at night. The current innovation of solar tracking system emerged as environment friendly and is crucial for the sustainable further development.
[0007] Thus, in light of the above-stated discussion, there exists a need for a solar tracking system.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0008] The following is a summary description of illustrative embodiments of the invention. It is provided as a preface to assist those skilled in the art to more rapidly assimilate the detailed design discussion which ensues and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of the claims which are appended hereto in order to particularly point out the invention.
[0009] According to illustrative embodiments, the present disclosure focuses on a solar tracking system which overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages or provide the users with a useful or commercial choice.
[0010] An objective of the present disclosure is to develop a solar tracking system to maximize the solar energy capture by intelligent tracking the sun's position.
[0011] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a solar tracking system incorporated with self-cleaning mechanism for better light absorption and increased lifespan.
[0012] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a solar tracking system with efficient energy management for longer durability.
[0013] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a solar tracking system enabling proactive maintenance, minimizing downtime and operational costs.
[0014] Yet, another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a sun tracking solar power system which is environment friendly and contributes to the development of sustainable future.
[0015] In light of the above, in one aspect of the present disclosure, a solar tracking system is disclosed herein. The system comprises a plurality of sensor configured to sense the intensity of sunlight for optimal energy capture. The system also includes solar panels connected to the plurality of sensor and configured to receive solar energy from the sun. the system also includes a microcontroller connected to the plurality of sensors and configured to process data, wherein the microcontroller further comprises a data input module configured to receive data from the plurality of sensors, a data processing module configured to process data and determine the maximum intensity of solar energy, an adjustment module configured to adjust the solar panels alignment to capture the determined maximum intensity of solar energy, a self-cleaning module configured to periodically remove dust and debris from the surface of the solar panels, an output module configured to collect and transmit the data. The system also includes a user device connected to microcontroller via a communication network and configured to display the output data.
[0016] In one embodiment, the plurality of sensors comprises sensor 1, sensor 2 and sensor 3 configured to sense the maximum intensity of sunlight.
[0017] In one embodiment, the system further comprises a motor connected to the solar panel and configured to provide the torque for the movement of the solar panel.
[0018] In one embodiment, the system further comprises an arm extended to the solar panel and configured to sweep across the solar panel periodically to remove dust and debris.
[0019] In one embodiment, the system further comprises a battery bank configured to store and provide the energy generated by the solar panel in the absence of sunlight.
[0020] In one embodiment, the system further comprises a charge controller configured to regulate the battery bank charging and discharging cycles to maximize efficiency.
[0021] In one embodiment, the microcontroller further comprises a fault detection module configured to monitor the solar panels and detects the issue in the solar panels.
[0022] In one embodiment, the system further comprises a display screen configured to display the movement of the solar panels.
[0023] In light of the above, in one aspect of the present disclosure, a method for solar tracking system is disclosed herein. The method comprises sensing the intensity of sunlight for optimal energy capture via a plurality of sensor. The method also includes receiving solar energy from the sun via solar panels. The method also includes processing data via a microcontroller comprising of several modules. The method also includes receiving data from the plurality of sensors via a data input module. The method also includes processing data and determine the maximum intensity of solar energy via a data processing module. The method also includes adjusting the solar panels alignment to capture the determined maximum intensity of solar energy via an adjustment module. The method also includes removing dust and debris from the surface of the solar panels via a self-cleaning module. The method also includes collecting and transmitting the data via an output module. The method also includes displaying the output data via a user device.
[0024] These and other advantages will be apparent from the present application of the embodiments described herein.
[0025] The preceding is a simplified summary to provide an understanding of some embodiments of the present invention. This summary is neither an extensive nor exhaustive overview of the present invention and its various embodiments. The summary presents selected concepts of the embodiments of the present invention in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detailed description presented below. As will be appreciated, other embodiments of the present invention are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.
[0026] These elements, together with the other aspects of the present disclosure and various features are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed hereto and form a part of the present disclosure. For a better understanding of the present disclosure, its operating advantages, and the specified object attained by its uses, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there are illustrated exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] To describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present disclosure or in the prior art more clearly, the following briefly describes the accompanying drawings required for describing the embodiments or the prior art. Apparently, the accompanying drawings in the following description merely show some embodiments of the present disclosure, and a person of ordinary skill in the art can derive other implementations from these accompanying drawings without creative efforts. All of the embodiments or the implementations shall fall within the protection scope of the present disclosure.
[0028] The advantages and features of the present disclosure will become better understood with reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing, in which:
[0029] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a solar tracking system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0030] FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic representation of solar tracking system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0031] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of working of a solar tracking system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0032] FIG. 4 illustrates a flow chart of a method for solar tracking system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0033] Like reference, numerals refer to like parts throughout the description of several views of the drawing.
[0034] The solar tracking system is illustrated in the accompanying drawings, which like reference letters indicate corresponding parts in the various figures. It should be noted that the accompanying figure is intended to present illustrations of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. This figure is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. It should also be noted that the accompanying figure is not necessarily drawn to scale.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0035] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.
[0036] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure. It may be apparent to one skilled in the art that embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without some of these specific details.
[0037] Various terms as used herein are shown below. To the extent a term is used, it should be given the broadest definition persons in the pertinent art have given that term as reflected in printed publications and issued patents at the time of filing.
[0038] The terms "a" and "an" herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items.
[0039] The terms "having", "comprising", "including", and variations thereof signify the presence of a component.
[0040] Referring now to FIG. 1 to FIG. 4 to describe various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a solar tracking system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0041] The system may include a plurality of sensors 102, solar panels 104, a microcontroller 106, wherein the microcontroller 106 further comprises a data input module 120, a data processing module 122, an adjustment module 124, a self-cleaning module 126, and output module 128. The system may also include a user device 110.
[0042] A plurality of sensor 102 plays a vital role in the functioning of system 100 and configured to sense the intensity of sunlight for optimal energy capture. They are designed and oriented towards the sun to detect the varying level of light intensity of sun throughout the day. The plurality of sensor 102 continuously monitors the weather conditions and provide the real-time data which is necessary for maximizing efficiency of the system 100.
[0043] In one embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of sensors 102 comprises sensor 1 134, sensor 2 136 and sensor 3 138 configured to sense the maximum intensity of sunlight. The plurality of sensor 102 enhance the system 100 reliability and accuracy. The design and implementation of the plurality of sensor 102 are pivotal for improving the performance of the system 100.
[0044] Solar panels 104 are the primary component of the system 100. The solar panels 104 are connected to the plurality of sensor 102 and configured to receive solar energy from the sun. The major role of the solar panels 104 is to harness the sunlight efficiently and further provide it into a usable electrical energy. The design of the solar panel 104 and their connection with the plurality of sensor 102 aimed to provide sustainable energy solutions.
[0045] A microcontroller 106 connected to the plurality of sensors 102 and configured to process data. The microcontroller 106 is employed to control the sun tracking mechanism and other processes of system 100. The microcontroller 106 further comprises several modules which are specialized for different functions and ensure the overall performance of the system 100.
[0046] A data input module 120 configured to receive data from the plurality of sensors 102. It is responsible for receiving and managing the data. It acts as primary interface ensuring the user generated data is captured accurately and efficiently.
[0047] A data processing module 122 connected to the data input module 120 and configured to process data and determine the maximum intensity of solar energy. It is a vital for transforming the received data into an easily accessible format and computing the maximum solar energy intensity.
[0048] An adjustment module 124 configured to adjust the solar panels 104 alignment to capture the determined maximum intensity of solar energy. It is essential for measuring the adjustments required to locate the solar panel 104 in a right position for maximum harvesting of solar energy.
[0049] A self-cleaning module 126 configured to periodically remove dust and debris from the surface of the solar panels 104. The integrated autonomous cleaning helps to maintain the high efficiency while reducing the wear and tear on the surface of solar panels 104.
[0050] An output module 128 configured to collect and transmit the data. The main function of the output module 128 is to display the results in order to facilitates the visualisation appealing and comprehensible display.
[0051] In one embodiment of the present invention, the microcontroller 106 further comprises a fault detection module 130 configured to monitor the solar panels 104 and detects the issue in the solar panels 104. The fault detection 130 continuously monitors the condition of the solar panels 104 and detects any issues such as reduced output or structural defects. If a defect is detected, it informs the issue and allowing for timely maintenance and repair. It also ensures consistent performance of the system 100 and reducing downtime.
[0052] A user device 110 connected to microcontroller via a communication network 108 and configured to display the output data. It serves as a fundamental component of the system 100 to collect and display the output data. It acts as a crucial interface, establishing a seamless connection between user and the system 100, thereby enabling efficient communication and interaction.
[0053] In one embodiment of the present invention, the system 100 further comprises a display screen 118 configured to display the movement of the solar panels 104.
[0054] In one embodiment of the present invention, the system further comprises a motor 132 connected to the solar panel 104 and configured to provide the torque for the movement of the solar panel 104. The motor 132 comprised direct current (DC) gear motor that is affordable, exhibiting enough torque to drive the solar panels 104 in single axis that is from east to west. This enhances the capability of system 100 to capture the maximum solar energy.
[0055] In one embodiment of the present invention, the system 100 further comprises an arm 112 extended to the solar panel 104 and configured to sweep across the solar panel 104 periodically to remove dust and debris. This self-cleaning feature consist of a wiping mechanism through an extendable arm that sweeps across the panel surface to maintain cleanliness without manual intervention.
[0056] In one embodiment of the present invention, the system 100 further comprises a battery bank 114 configured to store and provide the energy generated by the solar panel 104 in the absence of sunlight. This helps the system 100 to increase the capability of providing the efficient energy when needed.
[0057] In one embodiment of the present invention, the battery bank 114 are two in number. Once a battery bank 114 is fully charged, the next battery 114 begins charging.
[0058] In one embodiment of the present invention, the system 100 further comprises a charge controller 116 configured to regulate the battery bank 114 charging and discharging cycles based on the solar panel 104 output and energy demand for optimal energy generation.
[0059] FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic representation of solar tracking system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The schematic illustrates a power supply 202 designed to provide sufficient power to the system 100, connected to the plurality of sensor 102 and the microcontroller 106. The plurality of sensor 102 sense the intensity of sunlight for optimal harvesting of sunlight. The microcontroller 106 process the data received from the plurality of sensor 102 and transferred it to the motor 132. A relay 204 is connected to the motor 132 and configured to start the motor 132. Further, the motor 132 connected to the solar panels 104 and configured to drive the solar panels 104 in a single axis. The solar panels 104 receive the light intensity from the sun and further connected to a converter 206 to convert the sunlight into a usable electrical energy which gets stored into a rechargeable battery 208. The rechargeable battery 208 stores and provide the optimal amount of electrical energy to electrical devices 210.
[0060] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of working of a solar tracking system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Initially, power is supplied to operate the system 100 and displays the charging status of the battery bank 114. If one of the battery banks 114 is fully charged, system 100 starts charging the next battery bank 114. The plurality of sensor 102 sense the intensity of sunlight to capture maximum energy. This information is transferred to the system 100 according to which the solar panels 104 drive to capture maximum intensity of sunlight with the status displayed on the Liquid crystal display (LCD) display screen 118. If the sensor 1 134 sense the maximum sunlight intensity compared to the sensor 2 136 and the sensor 3 138, the solar panels 104 move from point 2 and 3 to point 1. Similarly, if the sensor 2 136 and the sensor 3 138 sense the maximum sunlight intensity, the solar panels adjust accordingly. Additionally, in the absence of sunlight, the solar panels 104 move to the initial position as preset in the system 100.
[0061] FIG. 4 illustrates a flow chart of a method for solar tracking system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0062] At step 402, sensing the intensity of sunlight for optimal energy capture via a plurality of sensor 102. At step 404, receiving solar energy from the sun via solar panels 104. At step 406, processing data via a microcontroller 106 comprising of several modules. At step 408, receiving data from the plurality of sensors 102 via a data input module 120. At step 410, processing data and determine the maximum intensity of solar energy via a data processing module 122. At step 412, adjusting the solar panels 104 alignment to capture the determined maximum intensity of solar energy via an adjustment module 124. At step 414, removing dust and debris from the surface of the solar panels 104 via a self-cleaning module 126. At step 416, collecting and transmitting the data via an output module 128. At step 418, displaying the output data via a user device 110.
[0063] While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and various embodiments, it will be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims.
[0064] A person of ordinary skill in the art may be aware that, in combination with the examples described in the embodiments disclosed in this specification, units and algorithm steps may be implemented by electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination thereof.
[0065] The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present disclosure have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure to the precise forms disclosed, and many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described to best explain the principles of the present disclosure and its practical application, and to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the present disclosure and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omissions and substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstances may suggest or render expedient, but such omissions and substitutions are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
[0066] Disjunctive language such as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, Z," unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to present that an item, term, etc., may be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (e.g., X, Y, and/or Z). Thus, such disjunctive language is not generally intended to, and should not, imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z to each be present.
[0067] In a case that no conflict occurs, the embodiments in the present disclosure and the features in the embodiments may be mutually combined. The foregoing descriptions are merely specific implementations of the present disclosure, but are not intended to limit the protection scope of the present disclosure. Any variation or replacement readily figured out by a person skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present disclosure shall fall within the protection scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the protection scope of the present disclosure shall be subject to the protection scope of the claims.
, Claims:I/We Claim:
1. A system (100) for tracking solar energy, the system (100) comprising:
a plurality of sensor (102) configured to sense the intensity of sunlight for optimal energy capture;
solar panels (104) connected to the plurality of sensor (102) and configured to receive solar energy from the sun;
a microcontroller (106) connected to the plurality of sensors (102) and configured to process data, wherein the microcontroller (106) further comprises:
a data input module (120) configured to receive data from the plurality of sensors (102);
a data processing module (122) configured to process data and determine the maximum intensity of solar energy;
an adjustment module (124) configured to adjust the solar panels (104) alignment to capture the determined maximum intensity of solar energy;
a self-cleaning module (126) configured to periodically remove dust and debris from the surface of the solar panels (104);
an output module (128) configured to collect and transmit the data; and
a user device (110) connected to microcontroller via a communication network (108) and configured to display the output data.
2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of sensors (102) comprises sensor 1 134, sensor 2 136 and sensor 3 138 configured to sense the maximum intensity of sunlight.
3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) further comprises a motor (132) connected to the solar panel (104) and configured to provide the torque for the movement of the solar panel (104).
4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) further comprises an arm (112) extended to the solar panel (104) and configured to sweep across the solar panel (104) periodically to remove dust and debris.
5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) further comprises a battery bank (114) configured to store and provide the energy generated by the solar panel (104) in the absence of sunlight.
6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system () further comprises a charge controller (116) configured to regulate the battery bank (114) charging and discharging cycles to maximize efficiency.
7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the microcontroller (106) further comprises a fault detection module (130) configured to monitor the solar panels (104) and detects the issue in the solar panels (104).
8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) further comprises a display screen (118) configured to display the movement of the solar panels (104).
9. A method (400) for solar tracking system, wherein the method (400) further comprises:
sensing the intensity of sunlight for optimal energy capture via a plurality of sensor (102);
receiving solar energy from the sun via solar panels (104);
processing data via a microcontroller (106) comprising of several modules;
receiving data from the plurality of sensors (104) via a data input module (120);
processing data and determine the maximum intensity of solar energy via a data processing module (122);
adjusting the solar panels (104) alignment to capture the determined maximum intensity of solar energy via an adjustment module (124);
removing dust and debris from the surface of the solar panels (104) via a self-cleaning module (126);
collecting and transmitting the data via an output module (128); and
displaying the output data via a user device (110).

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