Single-Axis Solar Tracker System for Maintaining Southward Orientation of Solar Cells in Solar Cars

Abstract

Generating enough power in a solar car can be challenging due to the limited surface area available for solar cells. To maximize energy output, designers strive to use the latest, most advanced solar cell technology. Additionally, research has shown that using a solar tracker can increase energy absorption in various systems. This study presents the idea of implementing a solar tracker in a solar-powered vehicle, which was developed and simulated using MATLAB/Simulink. To evaluate the proposed tracking system, the study simulated its performance on a hypothetical track with changing directions. The paper outlines the operational steps of the tracker, which involves tracking the southern direction consistently, regardless of the vehicle's orientation. Additionally, the paper presents a comparative analysis of the initial outcomes obtained from the proposed system and those of other existing systems.