Solar Panel Tracker Systems: How They Work And What Are Their Types?

Solar panel tracking systems are automated devices that follow fixed parameters of sunlight in order to maximize power generation. They're usually installed on a roof or other solar-powered surfaces, and they use two rotary axes to track the sun. This article will discuss what they are, how they work, and their different types.

What are solar panel tracker systems?

There are a few types of solar panel tracker systems, but all work in the same way. Each system has a sensor that monitors the movement of a set amount of solar panels. The system then uses this information to update an algorithm that predicts how much power the panels will generate over the next hour or so. This prediction is used to control the power output from the panels, so they can continue generating energy even if they are not in direct sunlight. 

This type of system is especially useful for larger arrays of solar panels. By predicting their output, solar panel tracker systems can ensure that all of the panels are working together to generate as much power as possible. This also means that if one or more panels go offline, the rest of the array can still generate energy. 

Another type of solar panel tracker system uses GPS data to track the location of each panel. This information is then used to create an updated map of where each panel is located. This map is then used to predict how much power each panel will produce over time. 

This type of system is great for smaller arrays or for installations that do not have access to GPS data. Instead, it relies on previous data points generated by each panel to create an accurate model. 

Overall, solar panel tracker systems are a very important part of modern solar energy technology. They allow us to produce energy even when conditions aren’t ideal and help us maximize our output by working together as a large

How do solar trackers work?

A solar tracker system is a type of energy harvesting system that uses the sun’s movement across the sky to generate electricity. Solar tracker systems use either a pole-based or wheel-based tracking mechanism to follow the sun’s path. 

Pole-based solar trackers use a large, stationary pole (called a “stator”) that sits atop a large tank of fluid. As the sun moves across the sky, its light casts shadows onto the top of the stator, causing it to move up and down in response. This motion generates electricity through an electric motor. 

Wheel-based solar trackers are similar to pole-based systems but use smaller, rotary wheels instead of a stationary pole. These wheels are mounted on an axle that pivots as they rotate around a vertical axis. The movement of these wheels tracks the sun’s path and creates enough electrical current to power an internal electric motor.

Types of Solar Tracker Systems

There are essentially two types of solar tracker systems: those that track the sun's position directly, and those that use satellites to measure the sun's position. Direct solar tracker systems usually use either a mirror or a lens to focus sunlight onto a small tracking sensor. This sensor then measures the angle at which the light is being reflected off of it, which can be used to calculate the sun's current position. 

The most common type of direct solar tracker system is known as a heliostat. A heliostat consists of a large, flat mirror mounted on an upright frame. The mirror is constantly rotated so that it always points towards the sun. This allows sunlight to be focused onto a tracking sensor located above the mirror.

Satellite-based solar tracker systems work in a similar way, except that instead of using a mirror or lens, they use satellites to measure the angle at which light is being reflected off of them. This information is then used to calculate the sun's current position. 

One common type of satellite-based system is called an interferometer. It works by using two satellites placed at different angles relative to each other. When light passes between these two satellites, its interference pattern can be used to calculate its orientation and position. 

Both direct and satellite-based systems have their own advantages and disadvantages. Direct systems are cheaper than satellite-based systems, but they require more maintenance since they need regular calibration measurements. Satellite-

Learn  more about single axis solar tracker

Pros and Cons of Dual Axis Solar Panel Tracking Systems

Dual-axis solar panel tracking systems use two or more non-tracking sensors to measure the angle at which a PV array is pointing. This angle is then used to calculate and maintain the array's orientation. The system can be manually operated or it can be automatically controlled by an external controller. There are three main types of dual-axis solar panel tracking systems:

1) Optical flow: This type of system uses a laser that measures the movement of a sun sensor over time.

2) Inertial measurement unit (IMU): This type of system uses an IMU to track the movement of one or more solar panels.

3) Magnetometer: This type of system uses a magnetometer to track the movement of a sun sensor over time.

 Learn more about solar panel systems at Solar Earth Inc.