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Solar panels capture the energy from the sun and convert it to electrical energy. The amount of energy converted depends on the size and efficiency of the solar panels, and the exposure of the solar panels to the sun.
In order to maximize the return on investment of their solar panel systems, ECOforLIFE approached BELVES Design to develope and implement a tracking system, for a large two axis tracking solar array.
Several alternatives were investigated, prototyped and tested on small solar array trackers.
The tracker sensor system, tracking electronics and mechanics were developed and tested in parallel.
The tracking sensor design was patented by ECOforLIFE and production started.
The solar tracker carries 36 2mx1m solar panels, and produces 10kW or electricity.
The tracker keeps the panels oriented to capture the maximum amount of solar energy as possible at all times (allowing for weather, obstacles and wind).
If the wind becomes excessive, the panels lay horizontally to reduce wind loads.
If the sun is obscured, the tracker may collect more energy by facing a brighter part of the sky, or simply facing straight up.
The panels can tilt from horizontal down to 30º, and can rotate 270º.
In clear weather the panels will face the sun all day, every day.
Solar energy collection poential is evaluated every 6 seconds, and corrections to panel orientation are made.
The tracking system is implemented using industry standard electronics for all control and drive functions, and a custom made, patented sensor used to measure solar energy potential in all directions.
The energy used to control and move the panels is miniscule and the energy returned by the panels is maximised at all times.
Australian Designed
Australian Manufactured
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