A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF A DUAL-AXIS SOLAR TRACKING SYSTEM OVER A-FIXED-AXIS SOLAR PANEL USING FUZZY LOGIC CONTROLLER

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Mechanical Engineering Department, High Institute of Engineering, 6th. of October City, Giza, Egypt

2 Mechanical Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering at Shoubra, Benha University, 11629, Cairo, Egypt

Abstract

Photovoltaic (PV) energy provides advantages like low maintenance requirements and effectiveness in remote locations, while having a minimal environmental footprint. Nonetheless, the majority of PV systems are fixed flat-plate setups, which can lead to decreased energy production because of varying solar irradiation levels. The aim of this study is to evaluate the performance of a fuzzy controlled solar tracker system with dual axes compared to a fixed system. Fuzzy logic controllers are employed to regulate the motion of a dual-axis solar tracker system, enhancing the power output from the solar panels. The system utilizes a Mamdani fuzzy logic model, implemented through MATLAB Simulink, to interface with Arduino for controlling the system's movement. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed models, the power output of stationary photovoltaic panels is compared to the power output of fuzzy controlled dual-axis panels. The findings indicate that a solar tracker system with dual axes yields a 24.18% increase in power output.

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