A study on the tracking mechanisms of the photovoltaic modules

Abstract

One important problem of today’s society is the continuous growing demand of electric energy versus the constant drop of the fossil fuels. The solution is the renewable energy, like Sun, wind and water. The conversion of the solar energy in electric energy is one of the most addressed topics in the field of renewable energy systems. The photovoltaic (PV) conversion can be improved by use of mechatronic systems for the orientation of the PV modules. In this paper, we present the steps taken into consideration when engineering a PV system with tracking. We describe the various types of tracking systems that must be designed according to Sun-Earth position, having in view to maximize the incident solar radiation (normal to the active surface). On the other hand, the PV systems are characterized according to the arrangement of modules, with the emphasis on the array of modules.