Dual Axis Solar Panel Components –

P400 Power Optimizers (https://www.solaredge.com/sites/default/files/se-p-series-

add-on-power-optimizer-datasheet.pdf)
(https://wetu.be/_xA6qOwnYbM)
RTC (Real Time Clock) Module
Motor Driver
Motor
PV Panel
Arduino Uno (https://www.wetube.com/watch?v=Dp46Fd6L4Wg)
Li-Ion Battery
Power Optimizers
Power optimizers connect to SolarEdge inverters to increase efficiency at the point
of power generated from the solar modules. The optimizers increase the conversion
rate and efficiency for DC-to-DC energy. SolarEdge's inverter then converts the
direct current (DC) energy generated by our solar modules and optimizers to use-
able energy in the form of alternating current (AC) energy. Some may argue that
the inverter is the most important component of our solar energy system (next to
solar panels). The overall efficiency of our inverter in converting power into usable
energy plays a big role in how much usable power can be utilized by our system.
Power optimizers work to ensure that we are getting the most out of our PV array,
which makes them a perfect complement to compatible string inverters.
Power optimizers work in less-than-ideal site conditions, (i.e., shading or on a
north facing roof), with our panels and inverter to ensure that we are getting the
most out of our system. Much like microinverters, they increase the output
performance of each module at the individual level - which opens up a range of
benefits for system owners. It is important to map out our site conditions in order
to pick the most efficient solar energy setup for our unique situation.
Optimizers take DC energy, regulates the output of the module and delivers energy
to the central inverter for final DC to AC usable energy conversion. The optimizers
increase the overall energy output of our PV array by consistently tracking the
maximum power point (MPPT) of each individual module in our system. Tracking
the modules MPPT increases the efficiency of DC power from the solar cell, and
down to the central inverter where that power is converted to usable AC power.
Additionally, power optimizers allow us to monitor the performance of the
individual modules in our system through the SolarEdge monitoring platform for
quick and easy troubleshooting and maintenance. In summary, optimizers mitigate
module mismatch-loss that may be caused by manufacturing tolerance, partial
shading, degradation and so on.
Both string inverter systems with power optimizers and microinverter systems will
cost more in initial investment in large part due to the additional materials they
require. If we have a south facing roof with no shading, then the additional initial
cost may not be worth it in the end for we. In this case, installers may elect to use a
string inverter that does not require additional components such as those offered
from SMA through their Sunny Boy line. Remember that the power optimizers
have a higher chance to outlast the inverter, as suggested by their warranties.

Real Time Clock

A real-time clock (RTC) is an electronic device (most often in the form of an
integrated circuit) that measures the passage of time.
Although the term often refers to the devices in personal computers, servers and
embedded systems, RTCs are present in almost any electronic device which needs
to keep accurate time.

This information can be read by a microprocessor, usually over a serial interface to

facilitate the software performing functions that are time dependent. RTCs are
designed for ultra-low power consumption as they usually continue running when
the main system is powered down. This enables them to maintain current time
against an absolute time reference, usually set by the microprocessor directly.
RTCs are a very common element. They are present in everything from the
instrument clusters and infotainment systems in automotive applications to house
metering. RTCs frequently integrate into other devices—for example, the
broadband communications ICs used in car radios.
RTCs need continuous power and must have extremely low power consumption.
Most RTCs use the digital circuits supply when the device is on and active, but
switch over to a continuously connected power source when the circuit is powered
down. This power source could be a dedicated battery, a charged supercapacitor or
a separate power supply from mains.

Motor Driver
Motor drivers acts as an interface between the motors and the control circuits.
Motor requires high amount of current whereas the controller circuit works on low
current signals. So, the function of motor drivers is to take a low-current control
signal and then turn it into a higher-current signal that can drive a motor.
Motor Driver circuits are current amplifiers. They act as a bridge between the
controller and the motor in a motor drive. Motor drivers are made from discrete
components which are integrated inside an IC. The input to the motor driver IC or
motor driver circuit is a low current signal. The function of the circuit is to convert
the low current signal to a high current signal. This high current signal is then
given to the motor. The motor can be a brushless DC motor, brushed DC motor,
stepper motor, other DC motors etc.
In motor interfacing with controllers, primary requirement for the operation of the
controller is low voltage and small amount of current. But the motors require a
high voltage and current for its operation. In other words, we can say the output of
the controller or processor is not enough to drive a motor. In such a case direct
interfacing of controllers to the motor is not possible. So we use a Motor Driver
Circuit or Motor Driver IC.
Motors on solar positioning equipment orient panels to follow the sun daily and
seasonally. There are four basic types of electric motors used in solar power
applications: AC induction, stepper, and permanent magnet DC brushed and
brushless. choosing a motor depends on the speed, torque and power requirements
of the application as well as the communication and drive options required.
Brushed motors are relatively efficient and inexpensive, but they also have a
limited lifespan due to brush wear. Brushless motors are smaller, though more
expensive, and have better torque and speed characteristics. They are also more
efficient and have a virtually unlimited operating life. Brushless motors require
high-level control, but reduce cabling complexity compared to other systems. A
stepper motor can easily rotate by finite fractions. These are well-suited for
accurate positioning and repeatability with a fast response to starting, stopping,
reversing and speed control. Stepper motors also can hold loads steady once
reaching a required position. AC induction motors will allow power to be used
directly from the grid, but are typically not as controllable.
Motors on solar trackers must withstand extreme temperatures, twice that of a
normal industrial setting. They also must have protection against water and dust.
This can be achieved with sealing. However, sealing and changes in temperatures
can lead to condensation that may result in corrosion. A final challenge for solar
motors is ultraviolet light that can damage the motor’s external components.
Solar motors move large, heavy objects at a slow pace, so they may require as little
as one to ten watts of output power during normal operations. Therefore, need high
gear reduction in motors to primarily reduce tracking speed. The ratio is also
needed to allow for the possibility of extremely high wind loading.

Arduino Uno
Arduino is an open-source electronics platform based on easy-to-use hardware and
software. Arduino boards are able to read inputs - light on a sensor, a finger on a
button, or a Twitter message - and turn it into an output - activating a motor,
turning on an LED, publishing something online. We can tell our board what to do
by sending a set of instructions to the microcontroller on the board. To do so we
use the Arduino programming language (based on Wiring), and the Arduino
Software (IDE), based on Processing.
Over the years Arduino has been the brain of thousands of projects, from everyday
objects to complex scientific instruments. A worldwide community of makers -
students, hobbyists, artists, programmers, and professionals - has gathered around
this open-source platform, their contributions have added up to an incredible
amount of accessible knowledge that can be of great help to novices and experts
alike.

PV Panel
PV panels, also known as solar panels, capture the sun’s energy and convert it into
electricity. Electricity generated by PV panels is mostly used for powering
household appliances and equipment.
2 Types of PV Panel on basis of type of connection:
1. Grid Connected
2. Isolated
PV in solar panels means ‘photovoltaic’, because the panels consist of small
photovoltaic cells that are connected together. PV cells are made out of
semiconducting material — silicone being the most commonly used.
PV panels can be categorized into three common types of domestic solar PV
panels:
1. Monocrystalline PV panels- Monocrystalline panels are the most efficient,
as they are made from a single piece of silicon, making it easier for
electricity to flow through the cell. For this reason, they are also the most
expensive solar panel type. As the name suggests monocrystalline solar
panels are produced from a single continuous crystal structure. A
monocrystalline panel also has a characteristic single flat color. It is one of
the oldest and most developed of the three technologies. This panel is the
characteristic solar panel and offers a sleek, simple, and aesthetic look.
2. Polycrystalline PV panels- Polycrystalline panels are less efficient than
monocrystalline because they are made by melting together several parts of
silicon, making it harder for electricity to flow through the silicon. It is
easier to manufacture polycrystalline panels, which is why they are also
more affordable. Polycrystalline panels are a relatively newer technology.
The Polycrystalline panels start as a silicon crystal ‘seed’ placed in a vat of
molten silicon. Rather than draw the silicon crystal seed up as with mono the
vat of silicon is simply allowed to cool. This is what forms the distinctive
edges and grains in the solar cell. In terms of efficiency polycrystalline solar
panels are very close to monocrystalline and continue to get better with time.
3. Thin-film PV panels- Thin-film, on the other hand, are the cheapest yet least
efficient type of PV panel. If we are looking for flexible solar panels, then
thin-film is a great option for we. Thin film solar panels are totally different
than monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels. Thin film panels are a
new technology that is ideal for houses with shading issues and requires
more space. Aesthetically the panels appear as a flat sheet with no lines that
run through the panels. Thin Film solar panels are less efficient when
 compared to monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels, and do not
seem to be making any steady improvements in the next decade.

Solar Power Batteries:

We do not use Primary batteries for PV Solar panels because they can not be
recharged.
We use secondary batteries that can be recharged. Generally we use Lead Acid
Battery-
1. Lead Acid Battery- Many types of lead-acid batteries are used in PV
systems, each having specific design and performance characteristics. While
there are many variations in the design and performance of lead-acid cells,
they are often classified in terms of one of the following three categories:

i) SLI Batteries- Starting, lighting and ignition (SLI) batteries are a type
of lead-acid battery designed primarily for shallow cycle service, most
often used to power automobile starters. The large number of plates
per cell allows the battery to deliver high discharge currents for short
periods.
ii) Motive power or traction batteries are a type of lead acid battery
designed for deep
discharge cycle service, typically used in electrically operated
vehicles and equipment such
as golf carts, fork lifts and floor sweepers. Traction or motive power
batteries are very popular for use in PV systems due to their deep
cycle capability, long life and durability of design.
iii) Stationary Batteries- Stationary batteries are commonly used in un-
interruptible power supplies (UPS) to provide backup power to
computers, telephone equipment and other critical loads or devices.
Stationary batteries may have characteristics similar to both SLI and
motive power batteries, but are generally designed for occasional deep
discharge, limited cycle service discharge, limited cycle service.