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.