Algorithm-based, single axis rotation of a solar panel apparatus for low power devices

This paper discusses the implementation of single-axis algorithm in accordance with Clear Sky Model for a low-power device such as a Wireless Mesh Sensor Network (WMSN) module. Solar energy can be used to power up modules which have low-power requirement such as WMSNs, specially when these WMSNs are mounted at remote locations where regular maintenance and changing battery cells is difficult. We devise a solar tracker assembly using a modified algorithm which tracks the Sun´s accurate position. By using simple information such as the location´s latitude, longitude and local time, various solar angles such as azimuth, zenith and altitude can be calculated using this algorithm and the assembly can be rotated. A successful implementation of such an algorithm with the help of a servo motor assembly for a single-axis angle, azimuth angle is described in this paper. Future aspects of implementing dual axis trackers are also addressed.