Arduino Solar Tracker | Science Project

Summary

In this video, Dr. Benino from Science Buddies demonstrates how to build an automatic solar tracker using Arduino. The project uses a solar panel mounted on a servo motor, controlled by two light-dependent resistors (LDRs). As the sun's position changes, the Arduino rotates the panel to optimize energy capture by aligning it perpendicularly to the sun's rays. The tutorial covers the circuit design, Arduino code, and practical considerations such as resistor values and sensor calibration. This simple yet effective project enhances solar panel efficiency by dynamically tracking the sun.

Takeaways

• 🔧 The video demonstrates how to make an automatic solar tracker using Arduino.
• ☀️ The solar panel is mounted on a servo motor and tracks sunlight using two photoresistors.
• 📉 Photoresistors, also known as light-dependent resistors, change resistance based on the amount of light hitting them.
• 🔄 The Arduino code uses the difference in light intensity between the two sensors to rotate the solar panel toward the light source.
• ⚙️ The solar tracker adjusts the panel to remain perpendicular to the sun’s rays, maximizing energy production.
• 🌞 The setup is designed to follow the sun’s east-to-west movement throughout the day, optimizing the panel’s output.
• 🔍 A dual-axis tracker can also be built, adding a second motor for vertical adjustments.
• 🛠️ The project uses simple materials like popsicle sticks and hot glue for the solar panel's structure.
• 💡 The video explains how to wire the circuit, which includes the solar panel, servo motor, and photoresistors connected to the Arduino.
• 📈 The Arduino reads voltage from the solar panel, but it still requires an external power source.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the automatic solar tracker project?

The automatic solar tracker project is designed to optimize the energy output of a solar panel by adjusting its orientation to follow the sun's movement throughout the day, ensuring the panel remains perpendicular to the sun's rays for maximum energy production.

What components are used in this solar tracker setup?

The solar tracker setup includes a solar panel, a servo motor, photo resistors (light-dependent resistors), a support structure made from popsicle sticks and hot glue, an Arduino, and resistors to form a voltage divider.

How do photo resistors (light-dependent resistors) work in this project?

Photo resistors change their resistance based on the amount of light they receive. In this project, they are used to detect light from the sun. When one of the two sensors is shaded, the Arduino compares the readings and rotates the solar panel to align it with the sun.

Why is it important to orient the solar panel perpendicular to the sun’s rays?

A solar panel produces maximum power when it is oriented perpendicular to the sun’s rays. If the sun’s rays hit the panel at a steep angle, the panel will generate less power, especially in the morning and evening.

What is the difference between a single-axis and a dual-axis solar tracker?

A single-axis tracker moves the solar panel left and right to follow the sun’s east-to-west movement throughout the day. A dual-axis tracker, on the other hand, adjusts the panel both horizontally and vertically to account for seasonal variations in the sun’s position.

What is a voltage divider, and why is it used in this project?

A voltage divider is a circuit with two resistors in series that converts the resistance of a photo resistor into a measurable voltage. The Arduino cannot measure resistance directly, so this technique is used to measure the light sensor readings.

Can the solar panel power the Arduino directly in this project?

No, the solar panel does not power the Arduino directly. The solar panel's voltage is measured using one of the Arduino’s analog input pins, but the Arduino still requires external power.

What precautions must be taken when connecting a solar panel to an Arduino?

It is important to ensure that the solar panel outputs less than 5 volts. Connecting a panel with a higher voltage can damage the Arduino, which is designed to operate at 5 volts.

How does the Arduino control the movement of the servo motor in this project?

The Arduino reads the difference between the two light sensors. If the difference exceeds a certain threshold (e.g., greater than 50), the Arduino adjusts the servo motor's angle to rotate the solar panel towards the sensor receiving more light.

What role does the delay function play in the Arduino code for this project?

The delay function controls how frequently the solar panel adjusts its position. A longer delay can prevent the panel from jittering back and forth, especially on partly cloudy days when light conditions change rapidly.