Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Submitted by
K. GOKUL
(222005014)
K. GOKULAPRASAD
(222005017)
S. GURUMEDHA
(222005018)
JUNE 2022
i
Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering
SRINIVASA RAMANUJAN CENTRE,
KUMBAKONAM, TAMIL NADU, INDIA – 612 001
Bonafide Certificate
This is to certify that the thesis titled “IOT Solutions for PV System Maintenance”
was submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the degree of B. Tech.
record of the work done by Mr K. Gokul (Reg. No. 222005014), Mr K. Gokulaprasad (Reg.
No. 222005017), Mr S. Gurumedha (Reg. No. 222005018) during the final semester of the
This thesis has not formed the basis for the award of any degree, diploma, associateship,
Date:
Examiner 1 Examiner 2
ii
Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering
SRINIVASA RAMANUJAN CENTRE,
KUMBAKONAM, TAMIL NADU, INDIA – 612 001
Declaration
We declare that the thesis titled “IOT Solutions for PV System Maintenance”
Assistant Professor-II, School of EEE, SRC, SASTRA Deemed to be University during the
final semester of the academic year 2021-22, in Srinivasa Ramanujan Centre. The work is
original and wherever we have used materials from other sources, we have given due credit
and cited them in the text of the thesis. This thesis has not formed the basis for the award of
any degree, diploma, associateship, fellowship, or another similar title to any candidate of any
University.
Date:
iii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Foremost, we thank Lord Almighty for the bountiful blessings he showered and for being our
shield and fortress.
We also express our thanks to Dr.R. Chandramouli, Registrar, for allowing us to do our B.
Tech degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering.
We are greatly indebted to Dr V. Ramaswamy, Dean, SRC for allowing us to utilize all the
facilities on the campus.
We wish to express our deep sense of gratitude and thanks to Dr V. Dharmalingam, Head of
the Department, EEE for his kind cooperation in completing this project.
We place on record our gratitude for Ramkiran B, Asst. Professor-II, for his valuable guidance
throughout this project.
We take immense pleasure in thanking the project coordinator Mr Ramkiran B, for guiding
us through various steps in submitting the project.
We also convey our deep sense of gratitude and profound thanks to all Teaching and non-
Teaching staff of our department who have directly and indirectly helped with the successful
completion of the project.
iv
Table of Contents
Bonafide Certificate----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ⅱ
Declaration--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ⅲ
Acknowledgements----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -ⅳ
List of Figures------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ⅶ
List of Tables------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ⅷ
Abbreviations-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ⅸ
ABSTRACT---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ⅹ
1. INTRODUCTION---------------------------------------------------------------------------------1
1.1. Introduction-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.2. Internet of Things---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1
1.3. How IoT works------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2
1.4. Benefits of IoT------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4
1.5. IoT Security and Privacy Issues----------------------------------------------------------- 5
1.6. IOT Applications Areas--------------------------------------------------------------------
1.7. Embedded system---------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. LITERATURE SURVEY------------------------------------------------------------------------ 7
3. PROPOSED METHOD-------------------------------------------------------------------------11
3.1. Existing Method-----------------------------------------------------------------------------11
3.1.1. Disadvantages-----------------------------------------------------------------------
3.2. Proposed system ----------------------------------------------------------------------------11
3.2.1. Advantages--------------------------------------------------------------------------
3.3. Block Diagram-----------------------------------------------------------------------------12
3.4. Circuit Diagram----------------------------------------------------------------------------12
4. SOFTWARE OUTPUT------------------------------------------------------------------------- 13
4.1. Arduino IDE--------------------------------------------------------------------------------13
v
4.1.1. The Arduino IDE -------------------------------------------------------------------14
4.1.2. Libraries----------------------------------------------------------------------------15
4.1.3. Connecting the Arduino-----------------------------------------------------------15
4.1.4. Preparing the Board----------------------------------------------------------------16
4.1.5. Loading Codes-----------------------------------------------------------------------17
4.2. Proteus and its features---------------------------------------------------------------
4.2.1. About Proteus-----------------------------------------------------------------
4.2.2. Features-------------------------------------------------------------------------
4.3. Proteus simulations------------------------------------------------------------------
4.3.1. Advantages of Proteus ISIS Professional------------------------------------
4.4. Results------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. HARDWARE DESCRIPTION --------------------------------------------------------------18
5.1. Arduino Uno ------------------------------------------------------------------------------18
5.1.1. specification----------------------------------------------------------------------23
5.1.2. Communications------------------------------------------------------------------27
5.1.3. PINS General Pins functions-------------------------------------------------------28
5.1.4. Specific Pin Functions--------------------------------------------------------------29
5.2. Solar Panel --------------------------------------------------------------------------------31
5.2.2.1. Trackers--------------------------------------------------------------
5.2.2.3. Ground-Mounted---------------------------------------------------
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5.3.1. Power Capacity and power Capability---------------------------------------
5.3.2. Operating Instructions-----------------------------------------------------------
5.3.3. Specifications-------------------------------------------------------------------
5.3.4. Reverse Battery---------------------------------------------------------------
5.3.4.1. Mounting the charger to the vehicle-------------------------
5.3.4.2. Mounting the charger alongside the battery-----------------------
5.3.4.3. Maintenance-------------------------------------------------------
5.4. Temperature sensor-------------------------------------------------------------------------33
5.4.1. Features--------------------------------------------------------------------------
5.4.2. Applications--------------------------------------------------------------------
5.5. Rain sensor-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5.5.1. Specifications--------------------------------------------------------------------
5.5.2. Applications----------------------------------------------------------------------
5.6. Dust Sensor-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
5.6.1. Specifications--------------------------------------------------------------------
5.6.2. Pin Diagrams---------------------------------------------------------------------
5.6.3. Applications----------------------------------------------------------------------
5.7. Node MCU------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5.7.1. Features---------------------------------------------------------------------------
5.8. Water Motor-------------------------------------------------------------------------
5.8.1. Features--------------------------------------------------------------------------
5.8.2. Applications-----------------------------------------------------------------------
5.9. Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)--------------------------------------------------------36
5.9.1. Pin Diagram------------------------------------------------------------
6. HARDWARE OUTPUT-----------------------------------------------------------------------39
6.1. Images of Images--------------------------------------------------------------------------
6.2. Description of Hardware prototype-----------------------------------------------------
6.3. Working of Hardware Prototype--------------------------------------------------------42
7. SOURCE CODE---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8. CONCLUSION ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------45
9. FUTURE SCOPE-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10. REFERENCES----------------------------------------------------------------------------------46
vii
List of Figures
viii
Figure Title Page No
6.10 Dust Sensor Graph
ix
List of Tables
x
ABSTRACT
The solar panel system must continue to function at its peak level to efficiently harvest
dependable energy. This needs ongoing maintenance and observation. However, consistent
energy yield might vary depending on the weather. This needs ongoing maintenance and
observation. However, consistent energy yield might vary depending on the weather. We put
forth a unique real-time monitoring system that runs effectively on a tiny, inexpensive artificial
neural network. An intelligent monitoring system is needed to detect changes in ambient
conditions or abnormal behaviour, darkened, or dust-covered panels. The solar panel
deterioration caused by fault situations may be determined using the described PV monitoring
system. The Internet of Things (IoT) offers chances for the internet to penetrate the practical
aspects of human existence, such as business and standard household items. Through the
Internet of Things, users are able to perceive and operate items. It opens up several possibilities
for the straightforward integration of the real world with computer-based systems. IoT reduces
human interference while increasing efficiency, accuracy, and economic advantages. The
creation of an IoT-based monitoring system for solar power generation applications is
discussed in this study. Photovoltaic solar power facilities can be monitored and maintained
much more effectively thanks to the Internet of Things technology.
Keywords: Arduino uno, IoT, Node MCU
xi
CHAPTER-1
INTRODUCTION
1.1. INTRODUCTION
The usage of renewable resources is required due to the world's rapidly expanding energy needs
and environmental concerns. Solar panels have the highest future prediction of all technologies
producing renewable energy. Based on an artificial neural network, a smart reference analytical
module for monitoring individual solar panels in real-time. We go over the hardware
implementation, the mathematical module underlying the system's intelligent reference model,
and the overall implementation of the system. Compared to the preceding four decades, solar
PV energy's contribution has grown. PV energy is now the third-largest form of renewable
energy, behind hydro and wind. Thousands of solar panels are stacked in several arrays in solar
power facilities. The majority of solar power plants are found in tropical regions of the northern
hemisphere, which are prone to dust and filth. The efficiency of a solar power plant is primarily
affected by the accumulation of dust and filth on panels, which can cause the power output to
drop. The performance of solar panels is also affected by other elements including weather and
temperature. This research discusses the mechanism of an IoT-based monitoring system for
solar PV power plants.
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of objects, including cars and household appliances,
that include connectivity, electronics, software, actuators, and connectivity to enable
connections, communication, and data sharing. The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the
expansion of Internet connectivity to any variety of conventionally non-intelligent or non-
internet connected physical gadgets and daily things. These gadgets have technology built into
them, so they can interact and communicate online and be watched and controlled from a
distance.
1
Real-time analytics, machine learning, commodity sensors, and embedded systems have all
contributed to the evolution of the notion of the Internet of Things. The Internet of things is
enabled by the traditional domains of embedded systems, wireless sensor networks, control
systems, automation (including home and building automation), and others.
2
1.3 BENEFITS OF IOT
The internet of things offers several benefits to organizations, enabling them to
IoT encourages companies to rethink the ways they approach their businesses, industries, and
markets and gives them the tools to improve their business strategies.
The internet of things connects billions of devices to the internet and involves the use
of billions of data points, all of which need to be secured. Due to its expanded attack
surface, IoT security and IoT privacy are cited as major concerns.
One of the most notorious recent IoT attacks was Mirai, a botnet that infiltrated domain
name server provider Dyn and took down many websites for an extended period in one of the
biggest distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks ever seen. Attackers gained access to the
network by exploiting poorly secured IoT devices.
Because IoT devices are closely connected, all a hacker has to do is exploit one
vulnerability to manipulate all the data, rendering it unusable. And manufacturers that don't
update their devices regularly -- or at all -- leave them vulnerable to cybercriminals.
Additionally, connected devices often ask users to input their personal information,
including names, ages, addresses, phone numbers, and even social media accounts --
information that's invaluable to hackers. However, hackers aren't the only threat to the internet
of things; privacy is another major concern for IoT users. For instance, companies that make
and distribute consumer IoT devices could use those devices to obtain and sell users' data.
Beyond leaking personal data, IoT poses a risk to critical infrastructure, including electricity,
transportation, and financial services.
3
1.5 IOT APPLICATION AREAS
• Smart Cities
• Environmental Monitoring
• Automotive Industry
An embedded system is the integration of hardware and software, the software used in
the embedded system is a set of instructions that are termed a program. The microprocessors
or microcontrollers used in the hardware circuits of embedded systems are programmed to
perform specific tasks by following the set of instructions. These programs are primarily
written using any programming software like Proteus or Lab-view using any programming
languages such as C or C++ or embedded C. Then, the program is dumped into the
microprocessors or microcontrollers that are used in the embedded system circuits.
4
CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE SURVEY
2.1 TITLE: External Benefit Evaluation of Renewable Energy Power in China for
Sustainability
AUTHOR: Sen Guo, Huiru Zhao
YEAR: 2019
DESCRIPTION: China’s renewable energy power has developed rapidly in recent years.
Evaluating the external benefits of renewable energy power can provide a reference for the
Chinese government to set diverse development goals and implement differentiated supporting
policies for different renewable energy power types, which can promote their sustainable
development. In this paper, a hybrid MCDM method was applied to evaluate the external
benefits of China’s renewable energy power. Firstly, the impacts of renewable energy power
accessing the power grid for multiple stakeholders in the electric power system were analyzed.
Secondly, the external benefit evaluation index system for renewable energy power was built
from the economic, social, and environmental factors, based on the concept of sustainability.
Then, the basic theory of the hybrid MCDM method employed in this paper was introduced in
two parts: the superiority linguistic ratings and entropy weighting method for index weight
determination and the fuzzy grey relational analysis for ranking alternatives.
2.2 TITLE: A survey on IoT architectures, protocols, applications, security, privacy, real-
world implementation, and future trends
AUTHOR: Surapon Kraijak, Panwit Tuwanut1
YEAR: 2020
DESCRIPTION: The Internet is dramatically evolving and creating various connectivity
methodologies. The Internet of Things (IoT) is one of those methodologies which transform
current Internet communication to a Machine-to-Machine (M2M) basis. Hence, IoT can
seamlessly connect the real world and cyberspace via physical objects that embed with various
types of intelligent sensors. A large number of Internet-connected machines will generate and
exchange an enormous amount of data that make daily life more convenient, help to make
tough decisions, and provide beneficial services. This paper not only describes the evolution
and importance of IoT in daily life, the generic architecture, its most widely used protocols,
and numerous possible applications but also concerns security and privacy issues in IoT and
real-world implementation of IoT systems by using Arduino and its future trends. The IoT
probably becomes one of the most popular networking concepts that have the potential to bring
out many benefits.
5
CHAPTER 3
PROPOSED METHOD
A low-cost web server that collects photovoltaic data in real-time while requiring
human user supervision. a tool for gathering information from solar parks. The devices in the
PV park, local measurement systems (such as weather stations), and internet data sources were
all employed to collect the data. Applications for the Internet of Things (IoT), such as smart
homes, cities, and other systems, are multiplying quickly. The Internet of Things reduces the
amount of work required from humans by enabling machine-to-machine interaction, which is
utilized to facilitate the administration of several system components. To ensure the reliability
and continuance of the recommended system, the specified monitoring system in this study
links to remote services through the internet, including a cloud database for data recording.
This makes it possible to log and track environmental data and parameters for the PV panel
online in real-time. This will also make it simpler for any future configuration adjustments.
In recent years, researchers have developed a range of algorithms to analyze the
collected PV data for early problem identification. built a monitoring system to simultaneously
keep a watch on four PV panels. For defect identification, the typical PV panel voltage and the
voltage drop threshold are employed. developed a mathematical method for tracking
photovoltaic performance and locating hot areas. They keep an eye on the parameters (Cp (.)
and Rp (.)) in the circuit model of a PV panel and use these parameter estimations to anticipate
whether the PV panel is partially shaded or in a hot-spot condition.
3.1.1 DISADVANTAGES
6
3.3 BLOCK DIAGRAM
SOLAR BATTERY
TEMPERATURE
SENSOR
LCD DISPLAY
DUST SENSOR ARDUINO
IOT
UNO
RAIN SENSOR
WATER
SHORT MOTOR
CIRCUIT
7
Fig: 3.2 Circuit Diagram
CHAPTER 4
SOFTWARE OUTPUT
8
The source code for the IDE is released under the GNU General Public License, version
2. The Arduino IDE supports the languages C and C++ using special rules of code
structuring. The Arduino IDE supplies a software library from the Wiring project, which
provides many common input and output procedures. User-written code only requires two basic
functions, for starting the sketch and the main program loop, which is compiled and linked with
a program stub main () into an executable cyclic executive program with the toolchain also
included with the IDE distribution. The Arduino IDE employs the program argued to convert
the executable code into a text file in hexadecimal encoding that is loaded into the Arduino
board by a loader program in the board's firmware.
Arduino is an open-source electronics platform based on easy-to-use hardware and
software. Arduino boards can read inputs - light on a sensor, a finger on a button, or a Twitter
message - and turn them into an output - activating a motor, turning on an LED, publishing
something online. You can tell your board what to do by sending a set of instructions to the
microcontroller on the board
9
compilation, how much memory has been used, any errors that were found in the program, and
various other useful messages.
Projects made using the Arduino are called sketches, and such sketches are usually
written in a cut-down version of C++ (several C++ features are not included). Because
programming a microcontroller is somewhat different from programming a computer, there are
several device-specific libraries (e.g., changing pin modes, output data on pins, reading analog
values, and timers). This sometimes confuses users who think Arduino is programmed in an
“Arduino language.” However, the Arduino is programmed in C++. It just uses unique libraries
for the device.
The Arduino Integrated Development Environment - or Arduino Software (IDE) -
contains a text editor for writing code, a message area, a text console, a toolbar with buttons
for common functions, and a series of menus. It connects to the Arduino and Genuino hardware
to upload programs and communicate with them.
Programs written using Arduino Software (IDE) are called sketches. These sketches
are written in the text editor and are saved with the file extension. ino. The editor has features
for cutting/pasting and for searching/replacing text. The message area gives feedback while
saving and exporting and also displays errors. The console displays text output by the Arduino
Software (IDE), including complete error messages and other information. The bottom right-
hand corner of the window displays the configured board and serial port. The toolbar buttons
allow you to verify and upload programs, create, open, and save sketches, and open the serial
monitor.
4.1.2 LIBRARIES
Libraries provide extra functionality for use in sketches, e.g., working with hardware
or manipulating data. To use a library in a sketch, select it from the Sketch > Import
Library menu. This will insert one or more #include statements at the top of the sketch and
compile the library with your sketch. Because libraries are uploaded to the board with your
sketch, they increase the amount of space it takes up. If a sketch no longer needs a library,
simply delete its #include statements from the top of your code.
There is a list of libraries in the reference. Some libraries are included with the Arduino
software. Others can be downloaded from a variety of sources or through the Library Manager.
Starting with version 1.0.5 of the IDE, you can import a library from a zip file and use it in an
open sketch.
10
2. When prompted, select "Browse my computer for driver" and then select the folder to which
you extracted your original Arduino IDE download.
3. You may receive an error that the board is not a Microsoft-certified device - select “Install
anyway.”
4. Your board should now be ready for programming.
When programming your Arduino board, it is important to know what COM port the Arduino
is using on your PC. On Windows, navigate to Start->Devices and Printers, and look for the
Arduino. The COM port will be displayed underneath.
Alternatively, the message telling you that the Arduino has been connected successfully in the
lower-left hand corner of your screen usually specifies the COM port is it using.
11
If uploaded successfully, the LED on your board should blink on/off once every second. Most
Arduino boards have an LED pre-wired to pin 13.
You mustn’t use pins 0 or 1 while loading the code. It is recommended that you do not use
those pins ever.
Arduino code is loaded over a serial port to the controller. Older models use an FTDI chip that
deals with all the USB specifics. Newer models have either a small AVR that mimics the FTDI
chip or a built-in USB-to-serial port on the AVR microcontroller itself.
4.2 PROTEUS
The Proteus Design Suite is a proprietary software tool suite used primarily for electronic
design automation. The software is used mainly by electronic design engineers and technicians
to create schematics and electronic prints for manufacturing printed circuit boards.
Proteus is a design software developed by Labcenter Electronics for electronic circuit
simulation, schematic capture, and PCB design. Its simplicity and user-friendly design made it
popular among electronics hobbyists. Proteus is commonly used for digital simulations such as
microcontrollers and microprocessors. It can simulate LED, LDR, and USB Communication.
12
4.2.2 Features
ISIS has a wide range of components in its library. It has sources, signal generators,
measurement and analysis tools like oscilloscope, voltmeter, ammeter, etc., probes for real-
time monitoring of the parameters of the circuit, switches, displays, loads like motors and
lamps, discrete components like resistors, capacitors, inductors, transformers, digital and
analog Integrated circuits, semiconductor switches, relays, microcontrollers, processors,
sensors, etc.
ARES offers PCB designing up to 14 inner layers, with surface mount, and through-hole
packages. It is embedded with the footprints of different categories of components like ICs,
transistors, headers, connectors, and other discrete components. It offers Auto routing and
manual routing options to the PCB Designer. The schematic drawing in ISIS can be directly
transferred to ARES.
13
Fig 4.3 Proteus ISI
4.4 RESULTS
14
Fig 4.5 Simulation Result
CHAPTER-5
HARDWARE DESCRIPTION
15
from all earlier boards. The Atmega16U2 (Atmega8U2 up to version R2) is used instead, and
it is designed to function as a USB-to-serial converter.
5.1.1 SPECIFICATION
5.1.2 COMMUNICATION
A computer, other Arduino/Genuino boards, or other microcontrollers can all be
communicated using the Arduino/Genuino Uno's many communication features. On digital
pins 0 (RX) and 1, the ATmega328 offers UART TTL (5V) serial connection (TX). This serial
communication is routed through USB by an ATmega16U2 on the board, which to computer
software acts as a virtual com port. There is no need for an additional driver because the 16U2
firmware uses the built-in USB COM drivers. A.inf file is necessary on Windows, though.
Simple textual data can be transmitted to and received from the board using the serial monitor
found in the Arduino Software (IDE). When data is transmitted using the USB-to-serial chip
and USB connection to the computer, the RX and TX LEDs on the board will flash (but not for
serial communication on pins 0 and 1). Any of the digital pins on the Uno can support serial
communication thanks to a software serial library.
16
Fig 5.1 Arduino Pins
● LED: There is a built-in LED driven by digital pin 13. When the pin is HIGH value, the
LED is on, when the pin is LOW, it's off.
● VIN: The input voltage to the Arduino/Genuino board when it's using an external power
source (as opposed to 5 volts from the USB connection or other regulated power source).
You can supply voltage through this pin, or, if supplying voltage via the power jack, access
it through this pin.
● 5V: This pin outputs a regulated 5V from the regulator on the board. The board can be
supplied with power either from the DC power jack (7 - 20V), the USB connector (5V), or
the VIN pin of the board (7-20V). Supplying voltage via the 5V or 3.3V pins bypasses the
regulator, and can damage the board.
● 3V3: A 3.3-volt supply is generated by the onboard regulator. The maximum current draw
is 50 mA.
● GND: Ground pins.
● IOREF: This pin on the Arduino/Genuino board provides the voltage reference with which
the microcontroller operates. A properly configured shield can read the IOREF pin voltage
and select the appropriate power source or enable voltage translators on the outputs to work
with the 5V or 3.3V.
● Reset: Typically used to add a reset button to shields that block the one on the board.
● Serial / UART: pins 0 (RX) and 1 (TX). Used to receive (RX) and transmit (TX) TTL
serial data. These pins are connected to the corresponding pins of the ATmega8U2 USB-
to-TTL Serial chip.
● External Interrupts pins 2 and 3. These pins can be configured to trigger an interrupt on
a low value, a rising or falling edge, or a change in value.
17
● PWM (Pulse Width Modulation): 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, and 11 Can provide 8-bit PWM output
with the analogWrite () function.
● SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface): 10 (SS), 11 (MOSI), 12 (MISO), 13 (SCK). These pins
support SPI communication using the SPI library.
● TWI (Two Wire Interface) / I²C: A4 or SDA pin and A5 or SCL pin. Support TWI
communication using the Wire library.
● AREF (Analog Reference): Reference voltage for the analog inputs
18
5.2.1.3 RIGID THIN-FILM MODULES
In rigid thin-film modules, the cell and the module are manufactured in the same
production line. The cell is created on a glass substrate or super street, and the electrical
connections are created in situ, a so-called "monolithic integration". The substrate or super
street is laminated with encapsulation to a front or back sheet, usually another sheet of glass.
The primary cell technologies in this category are CdTe, or a-Si, or a-Si+uc-Si tandem,
or CIGS (or variant). Amorphous silicon has a sunlight conversion rate of 6-12%.
5.2.1.4 FLEXIBLE THIN-FILM MODULES
Flexible thin-film cells and modules are created on the same production line by
depositing the photoactive layer and other necessary layers on a flexible substrate. If the
substrate is an insulator (e.g. polyester or polyimide film) then monolithic integration can be
used. If it is a conductor then another technique for electrical connection must be used. The
cells are assembled into modules by laminating them to a transparent
colorless fluoropolymer on the front side (typically ETFE or FEP) and a polymer suitable for
bonding to the final substrate on the other side. The only commercially available (in MW
quantities) flexible module uses an amorphous silicon triple junction (from Unisolar).
The so-called inverted metamorphic (IMM) multi-junction made on compound-
semiconductor technology just became commercialized in July 2008. The University of
Michigan's solar car that won the North American Solar Challenge in July 2008 used IMM
thin-film flexible solar cells.
The requirements for residential and commercial are different in that the residential
needs are simple and can be packaged so that as solar cell technology progresses, the other
baseline equipment such as the battery, inverter, and voltage sensing transfer switches still need
to be compacted and unitized for residential use. Commercial use, depending on the size of the
service, will be limited in the photovoltaic cell arena, and more complex parabolic reflectors
and solar concentrators are becoming the dominant technology.
5.2.1.5 SMART SOLAR MODULES
Several companies have begun embedding electronics into PV modules. This enables
performing maximum power point tracking (MPPT) for each module individually, and the
measurement of performance data for monitoring and fault detection at the module level. Some
of these solutions make use of power optimizers, a DC-to-DC converter technology developed
to maximize the power harvest from solar photovoltaic systems. As of about 2010, such
electronics can also compensate for shading effects, wherein a shadow falling across a section
of a module causes the electrical output of one or more strings of cells in the module to fall to
zero, but not having the output of the entire module fall to zero.
5.2.2 MOUNTING SYSTEM
5.2.2.1 TRACKERS
Solar trackers enhance energy output per module at the expense of mechanical
complexity and upkeep requirements. To ensure that the modules receive the lightest possible,
they detect the Sun's orientation and tilt them as necessary.
19
5.2.2.2 FIXED RACKS
Fixed racks hold modules stationary as the sun moves across the sky. The fixed rack
sets the angle at which the module is held. Tilt angles equivalent to an installation's latitude are
common. Most of these fixed racks are set on poles above ground.
5.2.2.3 GROUND-MOUNTED
Ground-mounted solar power systems consist of solar modules held in place by racks
or frames that are attached to ground-based mounting supports.
Ground-based mounting supports include
● Pole mounts, which are driven directly into the ground or embedded in concrete.
● Foundation mounts, such as concrete slabs or poured footings
● Ballasted footing mounts, such as concrete or steel bases that use weight to secure the solar
module system in position and do not require ground penetration. This type of mounting
system is well suited for sites where excavation is not possible such as capped landfills and
simplifies decommissioning or relocation of solar module systems.
● Pole mounts, which are attached directly to the roof structure and may use additional rails
for attaching the module racking or frames.
● Ballasted footing mounts, such as concrete or steel bases that use weight to secure the panel
system in position and do not require penetration. This mounting method allows for
decommissioning or relocation of solar panel systems with no adverse effect on the roof
structure.
● All wiring connecting adjacent solar modules to the energy harvesting equipment must be
installed according to local electrical codes and should be run in a conduit appropriate for
the climate conditions
5.2.3 RECYCLING
Most parts of a solar module can be recycled including up to 97% of certain
semiconductor materials or glass as well as large amounts of ferrous and non-ferrous
metals. Some private companies and non-profit organizations are currently engaged in take-
back and recycling operations for end-of-life modules.
5.3 BATTERY CHARGER (12V1.5 Ah BATTERY)
20
The rechargeable backup battery provides power to Finger Tec terminals when the primary
source of power is unavailable. With the right backup battery, your system won’t have to be
interrupted during a power failure. 12V1.5Ah Backup Battery Access Control System: The
external Rechargeable Backup Batteries are almost always used in an access control system.
The backup battery prevents intruders from disabling the access control by turning off power
to the building and continues locking the doors secured by the system. Time & Attendance
System: For Time and Attendance System that records clocking-in and out data for employees,
power failure might cause discrepancies in the payroll system. Thus, external rechargeable
backup batteries are often used in Time & Attendance terminals as a backup power
A battery charger is a device used to put energy into a cell or (rechargeable) battery by forcing
an electric current through it. Lead-acid battery chargers typically have two tasks to
accomplish. The first is to restore capacity, often as quickly as practical. The second is to
maintain capacity by compensating for self-discharge. In both instances, the optimum operation
requires accurate sensing of battery voltage. When a typical lead-acid cell is charged, the head
sulfates are converted to lead on the battery’s negative plate and lead dioxide on the positive
plate. Over-charge reactions begin when the majority of lead sulfate has been converted,
typically resulting in the generation of hydrogen and oxygen gas.
At moderate charge rates, most of the hydrogen and oxygen will recombine in sealed batteries.
In unsealed batteries, however, dehydration will occur.
Size This is pretty straightforward, how big are the batteries? Lead-acid batteries don't get much
smaller than C-cell batteries. Coin cells don't get much larger than a quarter. There are also
standard sizes, such as AA and 9V which may be desirable. Weight and power density This is
a performance issue: higher quality (and more expensive) batteries will have a higher power
density. If weight is an important part of your project, you will want to go with a lighter, high-
density battery. Often this is expressed in Watts hours per Kilogram. Price is pretty much
proportional to power density (you pay more for higher density) and proportional to power
capacity (you pay more for more capacity). The more power you want in a smaller, lighter
package the more you will have to pay. Voltage The voltage of a battery cell is determined by
the chemistry used inside. For example, all Alkaline cells are 1.5V, all lead acids are 2V, and
lithium’s are 3V. Batteries can be made of multiple cells, so for example, you'll rarely see a 2V
lead-acid battery. Usually, they are connected inside to make a 6V, 12V, or 24V battery.
Likewise, most electronics use multiple alkalinize to generate the voltage they need to run.
Don't forget that voltage is a 'nominal' measurement, a "1.5V" AA battery actually starts at
1.6V and then quickly drops down to 1.5 and then slowly drifts down to 1.0V at which point
the battery is considered 'dead'. Re-usability Some batteries are rechargeable, usually, they can
be recharged 100's times
5.3.1 Power Capacity and Power Capability
Power capacity is how much energy is stored in the battery. This power is often expressed in
Watt-hours (the symbol Wh). A Watt-hour is a voltage (V) that the battery provides multiplied
by how much current (Amps) the battery can provide for some amount of time (generally in
hours). Voltage * Amps * hours = Wh. Since voltage is pretty much fixed for a battery type
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due to its internal chemistry (alkaline, lithium, lead-acid, etc), often only the Amps*hour
measurement is printed on the side, expressed in Ah or mAh (1000mAh = 1Ah). To get Wh,
multiply the Ah by the nominal voltage. For example, let’s say we have a 3V nominal battery
with 1Amp-hour capacity, therefore it has 3 Wh of capacity. 1 Ah means that in theory, we can
draw 1 Amp of current for one hour, or 0.1A for 10 hours, or 0.01A (also known as 10 mA)
for 100 hours. However, the amount of current we can draw (the power capability) from a
battery is often limited. For example, a coin cell that is rated for 1 Ah can't provide 1 Amp of
current for an hour; it can't even provide 0.1 Amp without overextending itself. It’s like saying
a human can travel up to 30 miles: of course, running 30 miles is a lot different than walking!
Likewise, a 1Ah coin cell has no problem providing a 1mA for 1000 hours but if you try to
draw 100mA from it, it'll last a lot less than 10 hours.
5.3.2 Operating Instructions
Once the connection instructions have been followed, plug in the AC power cord, the
“POWER” Red (LED) will be on, the charger will begin charging automatically and the
“CHARGING” Yellow (LED) will be on during charging. When the battery is fully charged
the “CHARGING” Yellow (LED) will be off and the “FULL/FLOAT” Green (LED) will be
on. Float Mode allows the charger to effectively be left connected to your batteries, throughout
a season, without overcharging your batteries and maintains your battery's full charge.
5.3.3 Specifications
9.1 Input voltage: 120Vac 50/60Hz 0.4A Max. 9.2 Charging starting conditions: Battery not
less than 5.5V 9.3 Rating output: 12Vdc 1.5A 9.4 Battery type: Lead-acid battery 9.5 Maximum
charging voltage: 14.4V 9.6 Maintenance charging voltage: 13.2V~14.0V 9.7 Operating
Environmental: -10~40℃, 90% RH Maximum 9.8 Weight: 0.62Lbs (0.28kg) approx. 9.9
Dimensions: L4.65” x W1.18” x H2.83” (L118 x W30 x H72mm)
5.3.4 Reverse Battery / Output Protect Condition The charger has a reverse battery and
output short circuit protection. If a reverse battery charger condition exists (“FAULT” Red
L.E.D.) solid, while output leads are connected backward), simply unplug the charger from AC
power and properly remake the connections as described in this manual.
5.3.4.1 Mounting the charger to the vehicle:
The battery charger is mounted directly to the fender well of your vehicle as shown in figure -
1. If using the nuts and bolts provided, drill two 1/8’’ holes in diameter. If the backside of the
mounting surface is hard to reach, you may consider using two 1/2’’ long sheet-metal screws
(not supplied) instead of the nuts and bolts provided.
5.3.4.2 Mounting the charger alongside the battery:
If more convenient to do so, as in the following figure-2, use the mounting bracket (supplied)
to mount the battery charger alongside the battery. If possible, mount the charger to the side of
the battery away from the engine and fan blades. Mount the bracket to the charger as shown,
using the nuts and bolts provided. Loosen the battery retaining hardware enough that you can
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insert the bracket between the bottom of the battery and the battery mounting tray as shown.
Position the charger so that it will not rub against the battery or any other part of the vehicle,
and then tighten the battery retaining hardware.
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Most humidity sensors use capacitive measurement to determine the amount of
moisture in the air. This type of measurement relies on two electrical conductors with a non-
conductive polymer film lying between them to create an electrical field between them.
Moisture from the air collects on the film and causes changes in the voltage levels between the
two plates.
5.4.1 FEATURES
● A humiture sensor module to test temperature and humidity, which uses the sensor
DHT11.
● Humidity measurement range: 20 - 90%RH
● Temperature measurement range: 0 - 60℃
● Output digital signals indicating temperature and humidity
● Working voltage: DC 5V; PCB size: 2.0 x 2.0 cm
● Humidity measurement accuracy: ±5%RH
● Temperature measurement accuracy: ±2℃
5.4.2 APPLICATIONS
● The module can be applied to the measurement of ambient humidity and temperature
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5.5 RAIN SENSOR
A rain sensor or rain switch is a switching device activated by rainfall. There are two
main applications for rain sensors. The first is a water conservation device connected to an
automatic irrigation system that causes the system to shut down in the event of rainfall. The
second is a device used to protect the interior of an automobile from rain and to support the
automatic mode of windscreen wipers. An additional application in professional satellite
communications antennas is to trigger a rain blower on the aperture of the antenna feed, to
remove water droplets from the mylar cover that keeps pressurized and dry air inside the
waveguides.
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This module is similar to the LM393 IC because it includes the electronic module as well as a
PCB. Here PCB is used to collect the raindrops. When the rain falls on the board, then it creates
a parallel resistance path to calculate through the operational amplifier.
This sensor is a resistive dipole, and based on the moisture only it shows the resistance.
For example, it shows more resistance when it is dry and shows less resistance when it is wet.
5.5.1 SPECIFICATIONS
The specifications of the rain sensor include the following.
● This sensor module uses good quality double-sided material.
● Anti-conductivity & oxidation with long time use
● The area of this sensor includes 5cm x 4cm and can be built with a nickel plate on the side
● The sensitivity can be adjusted by a potentiometer
● The required voltage is 5V
● The size of the small PCB is 3.2cm x 1.4cm
● For easy installation, it uses bolt holes
● It uses an LM393 comparator with a wide voltage
● The output of the comparator is a clean waveform and driving capacity is above 15mA
5.5.2 APPLICATIONS
The applications of rain sensors include the following.
● This sensor is used as a water preservation device and this is connected to the irrigation
system to shut down the system in the event of rainfall.
● This sensor is used to guard the internal parts of an automobile against the rainfall as well
as to support the regular windscreen wiper’s mode.
This sensor is used in specialized satellite communications aerials for activating a rain blower
over the opening of the aerial feed, to get rid of water droplets from the Mylar wrap to keep
pressurized as well as dry air within the waveguides.
5.6 DUST SENSOR
Dust Sensor is a simple air monitoring module with onboard Sharp GP2Y1010AU0F.
It is capable of detecting fine particles larger than 0.8μm in diameter, even cigarette smoke.
The analog voltage output of the sensor is linear with dust density.
Air Quality is an abstract term and usually comprises measuring several indicators:
Dust Levels – measured in µg/m3, for different sized particles (See below) Volatile Organic
Compound Gases (VOCs) – Formaldehyde, Benzene, Acetone, etc – measured in ppm (parts
per million) CO2 – measured in ppm.
Sharp's GP2Y1010AU0F is an optical air quality sensor, or May also known as an
optical dust sensor, which is designed to sense dust particles. An infrared emitting diode and a
phototransistor are diagonally arranged into this device, to allow it to detect the reflected light
26
of dust in the air. It is especially effective in detecting very fine particles like cigar smoke and
is commonly used in air purifier systems.
To interface with this sensor, you need to connect to its 6-pin, 1.5mm pitch connector by using
a mating connector.
5.6.1 SPECIFICATIONS:
● Air purifier
● Air conditioner
● Air monitor
● PM2.5 Detector
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5.7 NODE MCU
Node MCU is an LUA based on interactive firmware for Express if ESP8622 Wi-Fi SoC, as
well as an open-source hardware board that contrary to the $3 ESP8266 Wi-Fi
modules includes a CP2102 TTL to USB chip for programming and debugging, is breadboard-
friendly, and can simply be powered via its micro-USB port.
Node MCU is a Wi-Fi SOC (system on a chip) produced by Express if Systems. It is based on
the ESP8266 -12E Wi-Fi module. It is a highly integrated chip designed to provide full internet
connectivity in a small package.
It can be programmed directly through a USB port using LUA programming or Arduino IDE.
By simple programming we can establish a Wi-Fi connection and define input/output pins
according to your needs exactly like Arduino, turning into a web server and a lot more.
Node MCU is the Wi-Fi equivalent of the Ethernet module. It combines the features of the Wi-
Fi access point and station + microcontroller. These features make the Node MCU an extremely
powerful tool for Wi-Fi networking. It can be used as an access point and/or station, host a web
server or connect to the internet to fetch or upload data.
5.7.1 Features
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Fig 5.8 Node MCU
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● Reduced noise
● Available in DC and AC
● Supply voltage: +12VDC
● Supply voltage: 230V AC
5.8.2 APPLICATIONS
● Priming a pump
● To pump water supply, including pneumatic systems and in places where no suction lift
is required
● Pump motor as public water supply
● In the domestic water supply system
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Fig 5.11 Internal working of LCD unit
Pin
Function Name
No
1 Ground (0V) Ground
2 Supply voltage; 5V (4.7V – 5.3V) Vcc
3 Contrast adjustment; through a variable resistor VEE
4 Selects command register when low, and data register when high Register Select
5 Low to write to the register; High to read from the register Read/write
6 Sends data to data pins when a high to low pulse is given Enable
7 DB0
8 DB1
9 DB2
10 DB3
8-bit data pins
11 DB4
12 DB5
13 DB6
14 DB7
15 Backlight VCC (5V) Led+
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16 Backlight Ground (0V) Led-
Table 5.2 Pin No and Functions
CHAPTER 6
HARDWARE OUTPUT
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Fig: 6.1 Hardware parts with solar panel
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Fig: 6.2. Hardware prototype
5. Relay 6. Battery
In the hardware prototype, there are the following components present, Solar Panel, Battery,
Node MCU, Motor Driver, Power Supply unit, Arduino Microcontroller, Relay, LCD Display,
Gas Sensor, Rain sensor, Water Motor. Solar panels produce power from the light rays incident
on them and the power is shown on the LCD. A rechargeable battery represents the battery
energy storage in our proposed module. Arduino Controller is the brain of this unit that sends
signals to the Sensors. Node MCU to collect all data from Arduino and update in IOT server
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Fig: 6.3 Image of the output of Normal voltage get from solar is 9.14V
When the temperature is high the voltage gets from its solar panel is decreased to V= 0.46 also
it may affect the solar panel cells to rectify the problem's temperature sensor is attached with
solar panel
when the temperature goes up to 41’C and, the temperature sensor connected with the panel
gives a trigger signal to Arduino and Arduino gives a signal to the Water motor and it pours
water onto the solar panel
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● When it is Raining, power from the solar panel is reduced at the case it gives a signal
to switch grid mode
● If a short circuit happens it gives a trigger alert to protect other components may get
not to fault
Calibration with IoT
● To do all this work manpower is required so, here all data collected from the Arduino
uno board is also linked with Node MCU
● Node MCU helps to watch all the works happen in the panel also it saves data and plots
graph like at which instance voltage is reduced, at which period of time panel is filled
with dust,
● IoT platform Cayenne, created by my Devices, allows users to quickly prototype and
publish their connected IoT solutions.
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★ The Cayenne mobile application is accessible on both Android and iPhone, making it
simple to monitor and control
37
Fig 6.9 Short circuit Graph
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Fig 6.12 Rain Sensor Graph
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CHAPTER 7
SOURCE CODE
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41
42
43
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CHAPTER 8
CONCLUSION
A monitoring system for solar panels is available with high prediction accuracy. It addressed
how to implement the monitoring system on a low-cost microcontroller. Any individual PV
panel that needs maintenance may be found by the monitoring system. The cost per additional
PV panel decreases as more PV panels are added to the monitoring system. If the expected
output power for that PV panel, as determined by an artificial neural network model, is too
high, the monitoring system will flag the PV panel for maintenance. The actual output power
of that PV panel, as determined by sensors, differs by more than 10%.
Name: Name:
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CHAPTER 9
FUTURE SCOPE
The innovative aspect of the suggested strategy is that it will be less difficult to monitor a solar
power plant's performance thoroughly. A dedicated web server-based database will receive
real-time data of the plant parameters from the IoT-based system, boosting the decision-making
of the appropriate authority. The internet portal will show the plants' generation monitoring
and defect detection in real-time. For the grid integration of solar power installations, large-
scale data analytics for decision-making will be required. For historical research, it is possible
to make use of database entries for a plant's generation, irradiance profile, and ambient
temperature. This approach will need to evolve in future iterations to make use of contemporary
database technology and add a significant amount more embedded intelligence. When widely
used, this method might be further improved by GPS modules that track the locations of the
plants. This would enhance the real-time operation and maintenance of the plants.
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CHAPTER 10
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