Thesis Format

Republic of the Philippines
Bicol University
COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Legazpi City, Albay
DEVELOPMENT OF TYPHOON RESILIENT AND SELF-STORING

PHOTOTROPIC SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM (TRESS – PSPS)
A Project Study
Presented to the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering Department
Bicol University College of Engineering
Legazpi City, Albay
In Partial Fulfillment
of the Requirements for the Degree of
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
TITLE PAGE
CHRISTIAN E. BONTO
CHRISTINE B. BORLAGDAN
SIMON LATRELL T. CIMANES
CASTEL V. NOLEAL
CHERRY LOU M. OLAGUERA
APRIL 2022
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RECOMMENDATION FOR ORAL EXAMINATION
This Project Study is entitled “DEVELOPMENT OF TYPHOON RESILIENT
AND SELF-STORING PHOTOTROPIC SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM (TRESS-
PSPS)” prepared and submitted by Christian E. Bonto, Christine B. Borlagdan,
Simon Latrell T. Cimanes, Castel V. Noleal and Cherry Lou M. Olaguera, in partial
fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Mechanical
Engineering is hereby recommended for final oral defense.
Engr. Darwin M. Murillo, PME

Adviser
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RESULT OF ORAL EXAMINATION
Result of Oral Examination of the Project Study of Christian E. Bonto,
Christine B. Borlagdan, Simon Latrell T., Cimanes, Castel V. Noleal and
Cherry Lou M. Olaguera in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree
of Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.
Title : DEVELOPMENT OF TYPHOON RESILIENT AND SELF-
STORING PHOTOTROPIC SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM
(TRESS-PSPS)
Date : May 07, 2022
Place : Bicol University College of Engineering
Mechanical Engineering Department
PANEL OF EXAMINERS ACTION TAKEN
Chairman:
ENGR. JOSEPH DEL VILLAR
Panel Members:
ENGR. FRANCIA L. ABARIENTOS
ENGR. NATANAEL ORTIZ
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APPROVAL SHEET
Upon recommendation of the Project Study Committee, this study is entitled
“DEVELOPMENT OF TYPHOON RESILIENT AND SELF-STORING
PHOTOTROPIC SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM (TRESS-PSPS)” prepared and
submitted by Christian E. Bonto, Christine B. Borlagdan, Simon Latrell T.,
Cimanes, Castel V. Noleal and Cherry Lou M. Olaguera, is hereby approved in
partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Science in
Mechanical Engineering.
ENGR. AGERICO U. LLOVIDO, PME

Mechanical Engineering Project Study 2 (ME 422) Professor
ENGR. JOSEPH S. DEL VILLAR

Head, Mechanical Engineering Department
ACCEPTED and APPROVED in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the
Degree of Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.
ENGR. AMELIA B. GONZALES, Ph.D.

Dean, BUCENG
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Immeasurable appreciation and deepest gratitude for the help and support
are extended to the following persons who in one way or another have contributed
to making this study possible.
To our thesis adviser, Engr. Darwin Murillo, PME, for his guidance and
supervision throughout the course of the study and for his enthusiasm, time, and
patience he has given us especially in answering our queries regarding the study.
To the members of the evaluation committee, Engr. Joseph Del Villar, Engr.
Francia Abarientos, and Engr. Natanael Ortiz, for their generosity and expertise
that have improved this study in innumerable ways.
To Mr. Rene O. Briz, for providing knowledge on fundamentals of Arduino,
programming, and electric circuitry design.
To Mr. Khen Mehko Ojeda, for his assistance in the 3D modelling of the
device.
To our classmates and friends, who shared with us the same agony,
frustrations, effort, and laughter and for the words of encouragement and moral
support they have given.
To our parents, for their unconditional and financial support, love, and
understanding. Their valuable support served as an inspiration and strength for us
to push through and do our best.
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And above all, to the Almighty God, for his guidance, blessings, and
knowledge that he has given us.
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CERTIFICATION OF THE ADVISER
This is to certify that all the suggestions, comments, and recommendations
of the Adviser and Panel of Examinees had been incorporated in undergraduate
thesis entitled, “DEVELOPMENT OF TYPHOON RESILIENT AND SELF-
STORING PHOTOTROPIC SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM (TRESS-PSPS)” prepared
and submitted by Christian E. Bonto, Christine B. Borlagdan, Simon Latrell T.,
Cimanes, Castel V. Noleal and Cherry Lou M. Olaguera in partial fulfilment of
the requirement for the Degree of Bachelor in Science in Mechanical Engineering.
ENGR. DARWIN M. MURILLO, PME
Adviser
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CERTIFICATION OF THE EDITOR
This is to certify that the undergraduate thesis entitled “DEVELOPMENT
OF TYPHOON RESILIENT AND SELF-STORING PHOTOTROPIC SOLAR
PANEL SYSTEM (TRESS-PSPS)” prepared and submitted by Christian E.
Bonto, Christine B. Borlagdan, Simon Latrell T., Cimanes, Castel V. Noleal
and Cherry Lou M. Olaguera in partial fulfilment of the requirement for the Degree
of Bachelor in Science in Mechanical Engineering, was edited by the undersigned.
ROSABEL AVENGOZA
Editor
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
TITLE PAGE ...................................................................................................................... i
RECOMMENDATION FOR ORAL EXAMINATION ...................................................ii
RESULT OF ORAL EXAMINATION ............................................................................ iii
APPROVAL SHEET ........................................................................................... iv
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ..................................................................................... v
CERTIFICATION OF THE ADVISER ................................................................. vii
CERTIFICATION OF THE EDITOR .................................................................. viii
TABLE OF CONTENTS ...................................................................................... ix
LIST OF TABLES .............................................................................................. xii
LIST OF FIGURES............................................................................................ xiii
ABSTRACT ...................................................................................................... xiv
CHAPTER ONE: BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY ........................................... 1
Introduction ...................................................................................................... 1
Statement of the Problem................................................................................. 3
Statement of the Hypotheses ........................................................................... 4
Objectives of the Study .................................................................................... 4
Scope and Delimitation of the Study ................................................................ 5
Significance of Study........................................................................................ 6
End Notes ........................................................................................................ 8
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CHAPTER TWO: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES .......... 9
Related Literature ............................................................................................ 9
Related studies .............................................................................................. 16
Synthesis of the State of the Art ..................................................................... 20
Gaps Bridged by the Study ............................................................................ 21
Theoretical Paradigm ..................................................................................... 23
Conceptual Framework .................................................................................. 26
Definition of Terms ......................................................................................... 28
End Notes ...................................................................................................... 31
CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY ............................ 36
Research Design Parameters ........................................................................ 36
Materials and Set-Up ..................................................................................... 40
Research Procedures and Processes ............................................................ 45
Data Collection Procedures ............................................................................ 47
Statistical Tool and Analysis ........................................................................... 53
END NOTES .................................................................................................. 57
CHAPTER 4: PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS, AND INTERPRETATION OF
DATA ................................................................................................................ 58
Data Presentation and Analysis ..................................................................... 69
END NOTES ................................................................................................ 88
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CHAPTER 5: SUMMARY, FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS &
RECOMMENDATIONS ..................................................................................... 89
Conclusions ................................................................................................... 91
Recommendations ......................................................................................... 92
BIBLIOGRAPHY ............................................................................................... 94
APPENDICES………………………………………………………………………………101
Computations…………………………………………………………………..………..101
Design of the Device……………………………………………………………...107
Instruments Used………………………………………………………………….111
Documentary of the Processes…………………………………………………112
Set-up of the Device………………………………………………………………117
Bill of Materials…………………………………………………………...………..129
ADVISER & PANELS APPOINTMENT LETTER…………….………...………..130
CURRICULUM VITAE………………...……………………..………………….…..136
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LIST OF TABLES
Table 1. Parts and Purpose of the Device ......................................................... 44
Table 2. Sample Data Sheet for Simulated Test of the Device .......................... 48
Table 3. Sample Data Sheet for Actual Environment Test Action of Device ...... 50
Table 4. Sample Data Sheet for Comparison Test ............................................ 52
Table 5. Performance of the Device .................................................................. 53
Table 6. Two-way Anova................................................................................... 55
Table 7. Simulated Test of the Device............................................................... 69
Table 8. Actual Environment Test Action of Device ........................................... 70
Table 9 Comparison Test Conducted on April 29, 2022 .................................... 72
Table 10. Comparison Test Conducted on April 30, 2022 ................................. 73
Table 11. Comparison Test Conducted on May 1, 2022 ................................... 74
Table 12. Performance of the Device ................................................................ 75
Table 13. Plotting of Values .............................................................................. 78
Table 14. ANOVA TABLE ................................................................................. 78
Table 15. Design Wind Pressures on Walls and Roofs of Enclosed Buildings with
h ≤ 18m. Components and Classing ................................................................ 104
Table 16. Minimum Pressures ........................................................................ 104
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1. Fixed panel versus tracking panel (Del Rosario, et. al., 2014). .......... 17
Figure 2. Theoretical Paradigm......................................................................... 25
Figure 3. Conceptual Framework ...................................................................... 26
Figure 4. Computer Aided Drawing of the Prototype ......................................... 37
Figure 5. Design of Casing ............................................................................... 38
Figure 6. Design of Arm .................................................................................... 38
Figure 7. Block Diagram of Solar Tracker ........................................................ 39
Figure 8. Schematic Diagram ........................................................................... 62
Figure 9. Operational Procedure ....................................................................... 64
Figure 10. Improvised Wind Tunnel Simulation ................................................ 71
Figure 11. Average of current gained from Trial 1 to Trial 3 .............................. 76
Figure 12. Net Current Harnessed by The Device versus the Amount Harnessed
by Panel A ......................................................................................................... 77
Figure 13. Design Wind Pressures on Walls and Roofs .................................. 101
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ABSTRACT
Title: DEVELOPMENT OF TYPHOON RESILIENT AND

SELF-STORING PHOTOTROPIC SOLAR PANEL
SYSTEM (TRESS – PSPS)
Author(s): CHRISTINE B. BORLAGDAN

CHRISTIAN E. BONTO
CASTEL V. NOLEAL
Type of Document: Project Study
Institution: Bicol University

Legazpi City, Albay
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Non-Renewable energy sources are one of the major sources of pollution
that destroys the environment, which amplifies climate change. Solar energy is one
of the most promising energy sources which gradually rose in the recent years.
This study was conducted for the following purposes: to utilize the
phototropism in plants in designing a solar tracking solar panel system, to design
a mechanism similar to the movement of “makahiya” leaves that closes when
exposed to a certain condition to act as a self-storage mechanism, to determine
the capability of the device to withstand harsh weather conditions such as
typhoons and to determine the performance of the device in comparison to fixed
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mounted solar panels and to determine the effectiveness of the device in terms of
harnessing energy from the sun.
After the assembly of the device, TRESS-PSPS and a regular solar panel
were subjected to the same environment and the same time for 24 hours. From
time to time, the amount of electricity each of the device had stored was recorded.
Results showed that the device with the solar tracking mechanism can harness
more energy and is more efficient than a mounted panel at any time of the day. It
also illustrates the significance of tracking the solar azimuth, where the amount of
current harnessed is at most quantity.
An improvised wind tunnel simulation test proved that the design of the
device was able withstand 250 kph wind speed on par with an average typhoon
condition.
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CHAPTER ONE
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
This chapter presents the introduction, statement of the problem, objectives
of the study, the scope and delimitation and significance of the study.
Introduction
Non-Renewable energy sources are one of the major sources of pollution
that destroys the environment, which amplifies climate change. Solar energy is one
of the most promising energy sources which gradually rose in recent years. In
addition, solar energy is the best option for future energy demand since it is
superior in terms of availability, cost effectiveness, accessibility, capacity and
efficiency compared to other renewable energy sources (N. Kannan et. al, 2016).
However, present solar systems seem to be ineffective especially on
residential areas due to the underlying inefficiencies of it without solar tracking
mechanism, and space consuming problems. The cost is not worth the installation
overall, if a single typhoon would destroy it overnight especially in the Philippines.
The development of Typhoon Resilient and Self-Storing Phototropic Solar
Panel System (TRESS-PSPS) is inspired by phototropism from plants which
provides adequate charging and lighting capabilities for most electrical devices.
The benefit of using tracking devices was derived from the fact that the incidence
angle of the direct component of solar radiation is more favorable than angular
incidence that corresponds to fixed systems. The main goal of a solar tracker is to
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increase the energy harnessed by the device from the source, which is the sun.
This additional output or “gain” can be quantified as a percentage of the output of
the stationary array. Gain varies significantly with latitude, weather, the kind of
tracker you are using and the orientation of the stationary installation in the same
location.
Weather is the most important factor to move the tracker. Solar trackers
add to the efficiency of the system, reducing its size and the cost per KWH. Full
tracking or dual-axis trackers move on two axes to point directly at the sun, taking
maximum advantage of the sun’s energy while single- axis trackers follow the sun
accurately enough that their output can be very close to full tracking (Del Rosario
et. al., 2014).
This study aims to create a device that can be utilized for the advancement
of Albay in terms of using renewable energy. Bicol Region is highly vulnerable to
natural disasters. Located at the eastern Pacific seaboard, Albay is especially
vulnerable to tropical storms and cyclones, which bring destructive winds, heavy
rainfall and storm surges several times a year (Lasco, R., et. al., 2022) thus, using
solar panels require high maintenance and repair costs. Therefore, the device
created should be able to withstand typhoons and strong winds to overcome these
obstacles.
Moreover, with its compactness and easy storage function, the device
would be residential-friendly solar panel system that can generate up to 40% more
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for the same array in some parts of the world. In the Philippines, the estimate is
about 25 to 30 percent more.
TRESS-PSPS is built with the simplest yet efficient mechanical motion
systems, this single-axis solar panel system breaks the ineffectiveness of most
solar related systems by having a self-storage-like defense mechanism that makes
it resilient against typhoons or powerful rains and winds, which is common in the
Philippines.
Statement of the Problem
The existing designs of solar trackers available in the market allow the
panels to maximize the amount of energy that can be harnessed from the sun.
However, most of these commercial solar panels with solar trackers are proved to
be more at risk than most existing fixed panels due to its moving parts which are
prone to destruction during harsh weather conditions such as typhoons.
This information led the researchers to identify the weaknesses of solar
panels with solar trackers.
Throughout this whole study, the researchers intend to seek answer from
the following questions:
1. What is the design of a mechanical and automatic sun tracking solar
panel with self-storage mechanism?
2. What is the performance of the device in terms of:
a. Amount of Electricity stored vs. Conventional Solar Panel System
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b. Tolerance against environmental conditions
3. What is the significant difference between TRESS-PSPS versus the
conventional solar panel system in terms of:
a. Functionality
b. Safety
c. Efficiency
4. What is the cost-benefit analysis of the Typhoon Resilient Self-
Storing Phototropic Solar Panel System (TRESS – PSPS)?
Statement of the Hypotheses
Null: There is no significant variation on the device’s performance.
Alternative: There is a significant variation on the device’s performance.
Objectives of the Study
This study was conducted for the following purposes:
1. To utilize the phototropism in plants in designing a solar tracking solar
panel system.
2. To design a mechanism similar to the movement of “makahiya” leaves
that closes when exposed to a certain condition to act as a self-storage
mechanism.
3. To determine the performance of the device in comparison to fixed
mounted solar panels.
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4. To determine the effectiveness of the device in terms of harnessing
energy from the sun
5. To determine the capability of the device to withstand harsh weather
conditions such as typhoons.
Scope and Delimitation of the Study
This study specifically aims to determine the feasibility and cost
effectiveness of developing a certain solar-powered device capable of tracking the
location of the sun to effectively harness energy and with a self-storage
mechanism that would enable the device to withstand natural environmental
occurrences such as rains and typhoons.
It bounds only to proving whether device is:
a. Capable of following the sun’s location/direction
b. Able to automatically function during night and day
c. Able to store the solar energy harnessed from the sun in the form of
electricity using a battery
d. Determining the relative effectiveness of self-storage mechanism
against certain environmental conditions
The research is limited only to several additional situations that is to be
found out when developing and using the device, such as usage of the parts,
adaptation of the use of electronic parts, stating the formulas and concepts
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including the proposed blueprint and prototype diagram. All things not stated are
considered not the primary focus in the study therefore.
This study is limited to the technical design, construction and operational
aspects of the Typhoon Resilient Self-Storing Phototropic Solar Panel System.
This project is intended to operate on multiple situations, can be carried, portable,
and can be mounted into a fixed location as well.
The calculations for the tilting, specific accuracy of the mechanical
movements, as well as the energy harvesting difference in between the tilts and
energy loss due to friction is not mentioned, and is not included in the study.
Significance of Study
The study has of great impact to the following:
Nature, Sidewalk Lighting systems, and Road ways. The design of the
device made it automatically functionable throughout the day and even night,
making it very effective as a lighting energy source. Aside from saving so much
electricity, the automatic lighting system allows it to open at night and close during
the day. It also uses solar power which is good for the environment and nature.
Schools, Offices, and Government Facilities. The features of this device,
once installed, allows these premises, to produce low-cost electricity sufficient to
power up street lamps, and other related small energy using devices, such as
power banks, batteries, mobile phones, etc. At the same time, the device was
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designed to withstand most common environmental occurrences such as rain,
typhoon, wind, and effectively works even at night time.
Home Improvement and Electrical Installations. This technology could
also be adapted to many housing equipment and installation, effectively reducing
the cost of annual and monthly usage of electricity they consume. At the same
time, the design of the device allows effective harnessing of solar energy,
increasing the saved electricity therefore.
Researchers and Innovators. This research aims to come up with a simple
design and concept of a device that utilizes mechanical processes to produce
electricity sufficient for several purposes such as charging and/or lighting. Thus,
this research may give relevant information that may help other researchers who
would like to come up and may want to improve the proposed device. The methods
used in this study could be a primary basis for other related and similar research
projects therefore.
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End Notes
Daya, F., Ananthakrishnan, V., Balamurugan, P., & Swathika, G. (2018).
DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF AN AUTOMATIC SOLAR TRACKER
SYSTEM, 120(6).
Del Rosario, J. R., Gustilo, R. C., & Dadios, E. P. (2014). Optimization of a small-
scale dual-axis solar tracking system using Nanowatt technology. Journal of
Automation and Control Engineering, 2(2), 134–137.
https://doi.org/10.12720/joace.2.2.134-137
Kannan, Nadarajah & Vakeesan, Divagar. (2016). Solar energy for future world: -
A review. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews. 62. 1092-1105.
10.1016/j.rser.2016.05.022.
Lasco, Rodel & Rangasa, M & Pulhin, Fb & Delfino, Rafaela Jane. (2022). The role
of local government units in mainstreaming climate change adaptation in the
Philippines.
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CHAPTER TWO
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES
This chapter presents literature and existing studies that bear relation to
study and deserve careful attention in order to better understand the significance
of the device in its target fields. accordance with the purpose and features of this
research, this review of related literature covers the following research topics in
local, national and international.
Related Literature
Countries in South East Asia have embraced solar energy, the Philippines,
despite its huge potential, is lagging behind in terms of policy implementation and
deployment. This policy brief argues why solar energy should become an important
part of the Philippine energy mix for economic, energy and environmental
reasons.1
Solar power systems derive clean, pure energy from the sun (Maddileti, T.,
2019). As the renewable and clean energy, solar energy will not cause
environmental pollution that is produced by traditional energy like coal, oil, and
other fossil fuels during the using process. Light energy is converted into electrical
energy by means of a solar cell. A solar cell is the basic unit for converting light
energy into electrical energy.2
According to Imthiyas et. al. (2020), solar energy is a promising sustainable
power source asset. If the solar panels have an opposite profile to the beams of
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the sun it will create more vitality. The objective of the work is to track the sun, so
that the rays of sun will always be in perpendicular with panel. As the cost of
manufacturing the solar tracking setup is high, there are alternative less expensive
choices that have been proposed.3
The top three markets for solar technology in 2012 were Germany, China
and Italy. With these new installations, the European Photovoltaic Industry
Association (EPIA) reported solar was now the third most important renewable
energy in terms of global installed capacity, behind hydro and wind. Run over a
calendar year, the total energy output of PV installations worldwide in 2011 came
up to around 80 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) – enough volume to supply the annual
power requirements of more than 20 million households. 2
In the past, solar cells have been hooked with fixed elevating angles. They
do not track the sun and therefore, the efficiency of power generation is low. These
are for industrial and household applications, with the increased pace of exhausted
consumption of major traditional energy sources like oil, coal and gaseous petrol,
combined with ecological effects and for harnessing these conventional resources.
The unavoidable demand of electric energy to be produced by renewable energy
is the future demand. These features are extremely useful in autonomous PV
power systems installed in remote areas for system control and monitoring.3
The industrial range solar cells have a higher efficiency in a range of 10
and 20 percent. This indicates there is a still a zone of progress to be engaged.
Maximizing power output from a solar system is desirable to increase efficiency.4
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In order to maximize power output from the solar panels, one needs to keep
the panels aligned with the sun. By tracking the sun, such that the sun’s rays
always strike normal to the array’s surface, more energy can be received. This
undertaking intends to build the productivity of solar cell. Sun tracking systems are,
in general, timer controller-based (15° per hour rotation) and require manual
intervention for starting and stopping the system because solar time changes
throughout the year. The following instrument activates the servo motor to align
the sun panel for the greatest sun beams to fall in it. Different ways focus on
identifying losses and discovering approaches to relieve them. The efficiency of
solar panel is improved by either increasing the solar cell productivity or by
amplifying the yield of power by the utilization of solar tracking system.5
Light dependent resistor (LDR) is used in solar tracking system to track sun
which precisely controls the mechanism. This system cannot increase the
proficiency if the board is not adjusted. Improvement of yield by 30% and 60% than
the stationary framework is conceivable by the following framework. Double pivot
trackers are most productive; however, this accompanies multifaceted in nature.
Double trackers track daylight from box axis. Single pivot trackers are a superior
choice on equator region. The climate and the performance of the solar tracking
system decide the increase of productivity of solar panel. The efficiency of the
tracking unit decides the performance increase of solar cells. According to the use
of single-axis tracking can increase the electricity yield by as much as 27 to 32
percent.3
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On the other hand, a dual-axis solar tracker follows the angular height
position of the sun in the sky in addition to following the sun’s east-west movement
reports that dual-axis tracking increases the electricity output as much as 35 to 40
percent. As a result, there is a huge scope in increasing the efficiency of the solar
panel by attaching the solar tracker so that huge radiation will fall on the surface
of the solar panel.6
In the Philippines, the potential is even greater than the aspirational target
of 1,528MW attributed to solar in the National Renewable Energy Plan until 20130.
According to the DOE's 2009-2030 Power Development Plan (PDP), the country's
energy consumption is seen reaching 149,067 gigawatt-hours (GWh) by 2030,
from an estimated demand of 86,809 GWh by 2018 and actual demand of 55,417
GWh in 2008.7
According to N. Dela Cruz, 2021 the Philippines is considered as one of the
world's typhoons “hot spots” and suffers more natural hazards like typhoons than
any other country. Each year about 20 typhoons, equivalent to 25% of the global
occurrence of typhoons, occur in the Philippine Area of Responsibility. Most of the

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typhoons occur during rainy season (July until September).
The Philippines is prone to tropical cyclones due to its geographical location
which generally produce heavy rains and flooding of large areas and also strong
winds which result in heavy casualties to human life and destructions to crops and
properties. Typhoons with maximum wind speed of 118 to 184 kph and super
typhoons are prevalent in the country.9
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Mackenzie (2012) stated that solar trackers are unique solar racking and
mounting devices that offer a higher efficiency than their standard model
counterparts. Rather than remaining stationary like most solar racks, solar trackers
actively follow the sun throughout the sky, resulting in a greater percentage of the
sun’s energy being converted into electricity. Generally, a solar tracker will make
a solar panel around 40 percent more efficient. Depending on your goals, that
means you can use 40 percent fewer panels to generate the same amount of
electricity, or you can use the same number of panels to generate 40 percent more.
By maintaining consistent direct exposure from the sun to the module, trackers can
improve a PV system’s output by up to 40 percent over a ﬁxed-tilt array. The
increment of production improvement over a ﬁxed system depends on the
project’s latitude and the type of tracker. The benefits of trackers vary between the
different categories of trackers (one-axis, 1.5-axis, and dual-axis).11
When wind blows across a roof with solar panels, it passes through the
small gap that typically exists between the panels and the roof (or between your
panels and the ground in the case of ground-mounted systems), causing a large
amount of uplift to the panels. This phenomenon is capable of tearing panels from
their mounts, or the mounts from the roof or ground. In the most extreme cases,
solar panels may stay anchored down, but uplift from strong winds can tear
sections of your roof off. Cases like these show that a well-built solar racking
system may be more resistant to high winds than your roof itself. 11
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Another potential source of panel damage during wind storms is flying
debris. Although more unpredictable than wind alone, due to the variety of sizes
and types of materials that can be blown around in a storm, solar panels have
proven to be remarkably resistant to impact from wind-blown debris in the past. At
the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) campus in Golden, Colorado,
a severe hailstorm resulted in one broken panel out of 3,000 in a large rooftop
array. While not a perfect predictor of solar panels’ ability to withstand any debris,
this case is an encouraging reminder that solar panels are hardy devices capable
of surviving varying weather events.11
Most solar installers follow engineering guidelines set by the American
Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) in their Minimum Design Loads standards book.
While ASCE does not mandate a certain level of wind resistance, they outline a
standard procedure for testing solar panels for a wind resistance rating. This
ensures that solar panel installations nationwide are compared to a common
standard, and is a good way to verify that your solar installer is putting their
equipment through appropriate and accepted testing methods. Municipalities will
often include ASCE 7-10, the wind-specific ASCE standard, as a part of their local
building codes to ensure local solar installers are abiding by national building
standards and calculations.11
The relay module or interface board contains sets of binary actuators that
behave as an electrically operated switch called relay, where each relay in the
system is used to handle one load running on alternating current having a
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maximum voltage of 220 V, according to Marthur and Kalbande (2020).12
Moreover, relays are switches that controls the opening and closing of the circuit
contacts of an electronic circuit, stated Borkar, et al (2021).13
Microcontroller is a type of computer in the form of an integrated circuit (IC)
or "chip" which is often used in devices in your home which incorporate electronic
circuitry. Microprocessors are integrated circuits which process the instructions in
a computer program, perform calculations and send data to and from memory and
disk. Arduino is an open-source hardware/software programming platform based
around Atmel microcontrollers. Open-source means that circuit schematics and
source code of software used in designs is freely available and can be modified by
enthusiasts. Input and output signals are made available on the Arduino board
using rows of female connectors into which individual leads or single in line (SIL)
connectors can be plugged.14
Inclined with the studies, the researchers utilized the existing solar tracking
mechanisms and the self-storage mechanism of “makahiya” plant to build the
device. There are a couple of disadvantages that come along with the solar
tracker’s unique model. First, they cost more to produce and install. Second,
because they have moving parts, they do require more upkeep. Still, even with
those extra costs in mind, solar trackers are more cost-efficient overall and are a
better long-term investment than their stationary counterparts.
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Related studies
According to Del Rosario et. Al. (2014) the solar is still relatively
inexpensive, low-technology system, especially useful in the rural and remote
communities of the developing countries especially in the regions of Mindanao,
Philippines. There is equally need for innovation and room for improvement both
technically and economically. If properly harnessed, the solar still provides a
considerable economic advantage over other applications. Introducing the sun
tracking mechanism to a fixed solar still has improved the performance. This
means that there is a possibility to improve the performance of this conventional
solar still system using sun tracking. The tilting of the upper dc motor returns to
zero before the output occurs, thus, making it as open-loop control system. An
open-loop controller is used in the process because of its simplicity and low cost.
14
Del Rosario et. Al. (2014) proved that the solar trackers can add to the
productivity of harnessing the sunlight, in terms of cost and size saving as well as
the number of solar energy gains. The study was based on a real-time keeping
chip, to automatically determine the optimum amount of sunlight in every
30minutes from 6AM-5P in a small farm with an incubator, lamp, and aquarium
pump motor. Using tact switches to manually tilt the motor of the panels and to
modify the clock thru 16x2 LCD. The paper highly recommends integrating the
wireless technology using a microcontroller to maximize its duty cycle up to 6%
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and to become flexible and efficient in terms of management and maintenance. 14
Figure 1. Fixed panel versus tracking panel (Del Rosario, et. al., 2014).
The result of the two test subjects carried out provides the necessary
comparison between the fixed and auto-tracker. The first scenario involved
removing the panel from the tracker and laying it in a flat orientation. In this
particular test, the tracking panel produces more power than the ordinary fixed
panel.14
A study conducted by Prosper et. al. (2019) developed a prototype robotic
sun tracker that is operated by a microcontroller using the sun’s perpendicularity
and shadowing techniques in the design of the mechanism that injected an
intelligent comparator algorithm. A motor control method was used to execute the
best turn to harness the optimum solar energy with an Arduino based monitoring
system that measured the voltages obtained from each of the set-ups. The study
has proven a very significant improvement of 29% on the capacity of the robotic
sun tracker to harness more radiant energy than static installed solar panels. But
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other factors must be taken into consideration for further undertakings, such as the
sturdiness of the set-up, the quality of the panels to use, the cost to incur for using
the system, space to use for the set-up and others.15
Bione, et.al., conducted a study to compare the performance of the pumping
systems driven by fixed, tracking, and tracking with concentration PVs. A
theoretical simulation, as well as the experimental comparison between three
cases, was performed. The effects showed that it had significantly proven that PV
with tracker obtained higher value in terms of volume of water is pumped out of 7.4
m3 /day. Based on these findings, it has proven that there is a significant difference
between fixed PV (photovoltaic) solar panel and the PV with a tracker, which
concluded the latter to be more efficient. 16
The efficiency of single axis tracking and fixed solar panel was investigated.
They discovered that single-axis tracking panel is more efficient than fixed panel
only in pre-meridian and postmeridian. At noontime or midday, both panels were
producing comparable equal amount of power output. Single-axis tracking
produces higher power output than fixed panel throughout the day which means it
is utilizing the most of available solar radiation effectively and this will reduce
payback period for the initial investment cost of this technology. An experimental
investigation with double-axis tracking system compared to single-axis tracking
system should be considered in future work in this part Malaysia. 16
A single-axis tracking panel produces higher power output than fixed panel
up to 28W. During this time, the average efficiency of tracking panel was about
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66.70% and fixed panel was 39.96%. Hence, the percentage increment on
average power output using tracking panel reached up to 66.92% compared to
fixed panel during this period. The tracking panel module efficiency was higher
than fixed panel for the same period and can reach up to 28.9% at 6.00p.m. In
conclusion, single-axis tracking panel is more efficient than fixed panel in pre-
meridian and postmeridian. Thus, it produces higher power output than fixed panel
which means it utilize the most of available solar radiation effectively and this will
reduce payback period of the initial investment cost. 16
Approximately 50% of the solar PV claims in insurance companies are
caused by weather related events. Catastrophes are becoming more intense,
frequent and destructive due to climate change. Micro-cracking can occur when
subject to bending or vibrational forces, potentially due to high and turbulent wind
loading. Vulnerable to falling objects, if carried by wind. Risk of failure due to wind
loads above the design limit being experienced by PV panels.17
In the study conducted by Sabran, R. & Fajardo, A. (2019), a series of
experiments were made to measure the performance of the modifications in terms
of tracking error, power generation, and stepper motor current consumption. The
results showed that by directing the fine-tuning process to a range of altitude
angles where the sun is perceived to be, reduced the average tracking error by as
much as 84%. In effect, increasing the power generated by 15% as compared with
the previous scheme The proposed tracking strategy is currently applied to drive
a single panel of a stand-alone PV system in a residential setting.18
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A study conducted by Andres, S. et. al. (2018), intended to link the gap
between the presently available technology to small-scale consumers and the
integration of both solar tracking and concentrating photovoltaics (CPVs) into a PV
module to harness more power. V-trough solar reflectors were programmed to
follow the sun based on algorithms set by NREL. The device was tested based on
the accuracy of the reflector inclination angles, significance of the increase in the
output power and the cost-benefit analysis based on consumer perspective. The
error in the inclination angles were found to be minimal, the increase in power
output was significant and the device has an annual return of investment of 17.04%
within a payback period of 5.83 years.19
Synthesis of the State of the Art
This part of the chapter aims to summarize the review of the related
literature and studies with the bearing on the study.
According to the related literature that the researcher had gathered, the
design of the solar tracking solar panels had been actively being used by only few
or several companies. At the same time, the inability of this solar tracking solar
panels to protect itself against natural environmental conditions, such as rain,
snow, and typhoons had always been the reason for it to not be generally accepted
and used across many countries, along with facilities, and/or building or premises.
Most of the time, these designs are mostly used by only few companies who are
mostly located at countries with less rains and no occurrence of typhoons, where
most of the time, the sun shines bright. Philippines, on the other hand had the
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same climate, however, the big difference is with the presence of natural
environmental occurrences, sch as typhoons and heavy rains.
This led the researcher to make a more efficient, cost-effective solar
tracking solar panel system that has the ability to store itself, specifically during
night, and during the occurrence of environmental scenarios such as typhoons and
heavy rains.
The invention of the device and testing its performance in both simulated
and actual environments was the main goal of the study.
Gaps Bridged by the Study
As many devices of the same function of solar panel is available in the
market, still, this specific technology is not fully accepted and used thoroughly by
the public, and especially in some of the locations most common solar panels are
placed, once the sun changes its angle, the solar panel will get harness lesser
energy as well. At the same time, as most of the technology revolving behind solar
tacking requires programing skills, and the use of some circuit boards, and
electronics, it proved harder for the public to get access through them, or buy them.
They are not readily available in the market as well, making it “quite unpopular”.
And the current solar panel system available do not have self -storage mechanism,
at times of natural calamities and/or environmental scenarios such as rains, these
panels are easily destroyed, or damaged.
This study broadens the scope of solar energy technology and would like to
set up a newer standard which affordable, against most commercially available
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products, the researchers seek that the device be cost-effective, affordable to
every Filipino community who would like to utilize this technology during disasters,
and for more ease of access.
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Theoretical Paradigm
The theoretical paradigm guides the research throughout by providing a
general representation of relationships between things in a given phenomenon
stated within the grasp of the study. The paradigm of this study is illustrated above.
Before proceeding to the process of the study, it is taken into consideration
that the design criteria will be the first used to support the computations and the
different systems of the device’s design, such as tracker, and mechanical parts.
For the process of the study, design plan, mechanical and circuitry system will be
needed to compute and analyze the structural design. Mechanical system analysis
is needed to determine the proper movements needed in order for the device to
execute proper automatic self-storage.
Solar Tracker Perspective. Most solar trackers involve singular moving
panel in the same direction thus, the researchers decided to modify this system by
following a certain set of commands and patterns which is programmed by
Arduino.
Self-Storage Mechanism. The device is built with sensors and when the
sensors are triggered, it would send signals that would execute certain commands
that allows the arm of the device to move the panel and when both sensors acquire
similar readings, the device will stop the motion.
Upon building and designing the device, the study would be basing the
design from existing solar tracking mechanisms that is already available in the past
studies incorporating the idea of how a “makahiya” plant folds inward as a defense
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mechanism. Solar tracking solar panels protect itself against natural
environmental conditions, such as rain, snow, and typhoons and it is integrated
using the principles of programming.
Programming Principles. The principles of programming are essential
knowledge that every programmer should know. These principles will lead to
creating a clean and modular design that would be easy to test, debug and
maintain in the future. In this study, the programming language used is C++ in
order to program the Arduino board. (Paul, J., 2020).
The total cost estimate of the project is needed and important to come up
with a successful completion device together with its appropriate design and
properly designed features.
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Safety Standards
Programming Principles
Combining Theories
Figure 2. Theoretical Paradigm
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Conceptual Framework
FEEDBACK
Figure 3. Conceptual Framework
The main focus of the study is to design an efficient Solar Panel with solar
tracking system and self-storage mechanism features. There are several
processes to achieve this goal and the first step is the solar tracking and self-
storage perspective. In solar tracking, create a prototype and design plan to
achieve initial design of the solar tracking system, while in self-storage,
consideration of the mechanical processes and solar tracking mechanism to match
the design. Then, synthesize both parameters to achieve target design, and
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proceed evaluation for several tests of safety and workability. Lastly, adjustment
of parts to achieve the best design of the device.
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Definition of Terms
Arduino with Microcontroller - Arduino is an open-source platform used for
building electronics projects. Arduino consists of both a physical programmable
circuit board (often referred to as a microcontroller) and a piece of software, or IDE
(Integrated Development Environment) that runs on your computer, used to write
and upload computer code to the physical board. 20
Cost-Benefit Analysis - An analysis comparing the costs and benefits of the
project or device.
Circuit - An electric circuit includes a device that gives energy to the charged
particles constituting the current, such as a battery or a generator; devices that use
current, such as lamps, electric motors, or computers; and the connecting wires or
transmission lines. 21
Light Dependent Resistor (LDR) - are used to detect light levels, for example, in
automatic security lights. When the resistance reaches a certain value, the
program would execute a command that enables the device to work. 22
Photo Cell - A photocell is a resistor that changes resistance depending on the
amount of light incident on it. A photocell operates on semiconductor
photoconductivity: the energy of photons hitting the semiconductor frees electrons
to flow, decreasing the resistance. 23
Phototropism - growing toward or away from the light. Taking a particular
direction under the influence of light. 24 TRESS-PSPS utilizes this mechanism to
track the location of the sun.
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Photovoltaic - (PV) is a method of generating electrical power by converting solar
radiation into direct current electricity using semiconductors that exhibit the
photovoltaic effect. 25
PLA (Polylactic Acid) – A material used in a form of filament used in 3D printing.
Servo Motor - A servo motor is a closed-loop system that uses position feedback
to control its motion and final position. 26
Single-Axis Tracking Panel - Solar trackers with a single axis follow the sun from
east to west, rotating on a single point and moving in unison, by panel row, or by
section. Dual-axis trackers rotate on both the X and Y axes, allowing panels to
directly track the sun. 27
Solar Panel - Solar panels collect clean renewable energy in the form of sunlight
and convert that light into electricity which can then be used to provide power for
electrical loads. Solar panels are comprised of several individual solar cells which
are themselves composed of layers of silicon, phosphorous (which provides the
negative charge), and boron (which provides the positive charge). 28
Solar Panel System - A photovoltaic system, also PV system or solar power
system, is a power system designed to supply usable solar power by means of
photovoltaics. It consists of an arrangement of several components, including solar
panels to absorb and convert sunlight into electricity, a solar inverter to change the
electric current from DC to AC, as well as mounting, cabling, and other electrical
29
accessories to set up a working system.
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Solar Tracker - a system that positions an object at an angle relative to the Sun.
The most-common applications for solar trackers are positioning photovoltaic (PV)
panels (solar panels) so that they remain perpendicular to the Sun’s rays and
positioning space telescopes so that they can determine the Sun’s direction. 30
TinkerCAD - A tool that allows the user to simulate Arduino-based systems and
simulate all exercises before trying them on real hardware.
Two-way ANOVA - A two-way ANOVA tests the effect of two independent
variables on a dependent variable. It analyzes the effect of the inclination and time
to the energy harnessed by the device. 31
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End Notes
1Department of Energy. (2012). It's More Sun in the Philippines (Vol. 2, p. 4).
Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH.
2Maddileti, Telugu. (2019). REVIEW ON TYPES OF SOLAR POWER SYSTEMS.
Journal of engineering sciences. Vol 10. 499-502.
3Imthiyas, A., Prakash, S., Vijay, N., Alwin Abraham, A., & Ganesh Kumar, B.
(2020). Increasing the efficiency of solar panel by Solar Tracking System.
IOP Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, 993, 012124.
https://doi.org/10.1088/1757-899x/993/1/012124
4W. Aslam, Y. Xu, A. Siddique, A. Batool and M. N. Aslam, "A Method of Hybrid
Solar Tracking Prototype for MPPT," 2019 IEEE Asia Power and Energy
Engineering Conference (APEEC), 2019, pp. 253-257, doi:
10.1109/APEEC.2019.8720715.
5Nayak, Soumya & Pradhan, Chinmaya Ranjan. (2012). Solar Tracking
Application. IOSR Journal of Engineering. 02. 10.9790/3021-026112781281.

6Jadhav, P., Sanap, T., Gite, G., & Shaikh, N. B. (2019). AUTOMATIC SOLAR
TRACKER, 06(04).
7Department of Energy. (n.d.). It's more sun in the Philippines. Retrieved May 3,
2022, from https://www.doe.gov.ph/sites/default/files/pdf/netmeter/policy-
brief-its-more-sun-in-the-philippines-V3.pdf
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8Santos, G. D. (2021). 2020 tropical cyclones in the Philippines: A Review. Tropical
Cyclone Research and Review, 10(3), 191–199.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tcrr.2021.09.003
9Tropical Cyclones. PAGASA. (n.d.). Retrieved May 4, 2022, from
https://www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph/information/about-tropical-
cyclone#:~:text=TROPICAL%20STORM%20(TS)%20%2D%20a,kph%20or
%2064%20%2D%2099%20knots.
10Mackenzie, W. (2012, November 1). Solar PV balance of system (BOS) markets:
Technologies, costs and leading companies, 2013-2016. Wood Mackenzie.
Retrieved October 8, 2021, from https://www.woodmac.com/our-
expertise/focus/Power--Renewables/solar-pv-bos-2013/.
11Marsh, J. (2020, December 21). Solar panels and wind: Do they hold up?:
Energysage. EnergySage Blog. Retrieved May 4, 2022, from
https://news.energysage.com/solar-panels-and-wind-are-your-panels-made-
to-
last/#:~:text=In%20the%20most%20extreme%20cases,winds%20than%20y
our%20roof%20itself.
12Marthur, R., & Kalbande, K. (2020). Internet of Things (IoT) based Energy
Tracking and Bill Estimation System. IEEE Xplore Part
Number:CFP20OSVART;ISNB: 978-1-7281-5464-0, (p. 81).

13Borkar, P., Dhakate, A., & Amrute, A. (2021, June 15). Smart Home Automation
using Arduino UNO Rev2 Microcontroller. EasyChair preprints.
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14Del Rosario, J. R., Gustilo, R. C., & Dadios, E. P. (2014). Optimization of a small-
scale dual-axis solar tracking system using Nanowatt technology. Journal of
Automation and Control Engineering, 2(2), 134–137.
15Prospero, M., Bustamante, R., & Muya, G. (2019). Solar energy harnessing
optimization algorithm in a robotic solar tracker with Arduino based
monitoring system. VOLUME-8 ISSUE-10, AUGUST 2019, REGULAR
ISSUE, 8(10), 1275–1279. https://doi.org/10.35940/ijitee.i7541.0881019

16Bione, J., Vilela, O. C., & Fraidenraich, N. (2004). Comparison of the
performance of PV water pumping systems driven by fixed, tracking and V-
trough generators. Solar Energy, 76(6), 703–711.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.solener.2004.01.003
17Stevens, D., & Girona, A. (2019). EXTREME WEATHER AND SOLAR
PROJECTS. Retrieved from https://thinkrcg.com/natural-catastrophic-risks-
best-practice-for-solar-pv-projects/.
18Sabran, R., & Fajardo, A. (2019). An improved sunflower-inspired solar tracking
strategy for Maximizing Photovoltaic Panel Power Generation. International
Journal of Recent Technology and Engineering, 8(2), 1756–1762.
https://doi.org/10.35940/ijrte.b1013.078219
19Andres, S. M., Andres, J., Royce, J., Loyola, R. L., Molina, N. F., & Gutierrez,
C. (2018). V-Trough Reflectors Using Open-Loop Single Axis Solar
Tracking for a Pv Module, 5(1).
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20What is an Arduino? (n.d.). Retrieved May 3, 2022, from
https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/what-is-an-
arduino/all#:~:text=Arduino%20consists%20of%20both%20a,code%20to%2
0the%20physical%20board.
21Encyclopædia Britannica, inc. (n.d.). Electric Circuit. Encyclopædia Britannica.
Retrieved May 3, 2022, from https://www.britannica.com/technology/electric-
circuit
22BBC. (n.d.). Thermistors and LDRS - resistors, lamps and diodes - GCSE physics
(single science) revision - other - BBC bitesize. BBC News. Retrieved May 3,
2022, from
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/guides/zcgkp39/revision/5#:~:text=LDRs%20
(light%2Ddependent%20resistors),current%20can%20flow%20through%20i
t
23
Editor. (2021, March 15). How do you test a photocell sensor?
Yemialadeworld.com. Retrieved May 3, 2022, from
https://www.yemialadeworld.com/how-do-you-test-a-photocell-sensor/
24Phototropism. Phototropism - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics. (n.d.).
Retrieved May 3, 2022, from
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-
biology/phototropism#:~:text=Phototropism%20is%20the%20ability%20of,is
%20exclusively%20controlled%20by%20phots.
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25Photovoltaic system. Wartsila.com. (n.d.). Retrieved May 3, 2022, from
https://www.wartsila.com/encyclopedia/term/photovoltaic-system
26Collado, E., Dejan, James, B., Suyi, M., Sabith, Bart, Nedelkovski, D., & Anand.
(2022, February 17). How to control servo motors with Arduino - Complete
Guide. How To Mechatronics. Retrieved May 3, 2022, from
https://howtomechatronics.com/how-it-works/how-servo-motors-work-how-
to-control-servos-using-arduino/
27Home. How does a solar panel work? (n.d.). Retrieved May 3, 2022, from
https://www.mrsolar.com/what-is-a-solar-panel/
28 Home. How does a solar panel work? (n.d.). Retrieved May 4, 2022, from
29Photovoltaic system. Wartsila.com. (n.d.). Retrieved May 3, 2022, from
30
Encyclopædia Britannica, inc. (n.d.). Solar tracker. Encyclopædia Britannica.
Retrieved May 4, 2022, from https://www.britannica.com/technology/solar-
tracker
31Hayes, A. (2022, February 8). Two-way ANOVA. Investopedia. Retrieved May 3,
2022, from https://www.investopedia.com/terms/t/two-way-anova.asp
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CHAPTER 3
RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY
This chapter presents the research design, procedures, data collection
procedures, schedule of activities, materials and set-up and the statistical tools
and analysis of the study.
Research Design Parameters
In this study the researcher conducted an experimental research type
design, focusing on the theories proposed by the researcher to develop an
effective typhoon resilient self-storing sun tracking solar panel system. On the
actual experiment, data was gathered and was tabulated and interpreted using
statistical tools. Variations in the performance of the device was measured and
interpreted. All scenarios through the experimentation and physical observations
were also recorded.
Furthermore, there are parameters used as primary basis in the design of
the device parts, which are discussed below:
PARAMETER 1: Design of the automatic single-axis mechanical self-storage
system
The mechanical self-storage system was based on the closing mechanism
observed in the “makahiya leaves” when struck by physical motion. The device,
however, was simulated by the presence and location of a light source, especially
the sun. The mechanical processes were created via reverse engineering, to
develop the best fitting and possible design.
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Factors such as air resistance, maximum weight load, and durability tests
were taken into consideration.
Step by step procedure:
1. Designing and creating movable/foldable joints
2. Integration of motor parts
3. Trial fitting of the parts and machinery
Figure 4. Computer Aided Drawing of the Prototype
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Figure 5. Design of Casing
Figure 6. Design of Arm
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PARAMETER 2: Design of the sun tracker circuit
To facilitate the automatic actions of the device without human contact, and
remote access, an electrical system for the device was created that can withstand
harsh environmental factors: humidity, temperature, and force. Present high
quality electrical materials such as wires and circuit boards and sensors were
utilized.
Figure 7. Block Diagram of Solar Tracker
1. Designing and programming the circuit
2. Integration of parts, retro fitting and adjusting
3. Trial fitting of the parts and machinery
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PARAMETER 3: Experimentation, comparison and recording various results
All of the relevant information such as the efficiency of energy gathered in
terms of the performance of the device, charging tests, and several other factors
were calculated and such as the theoretical values that seek validation of the
device performance.
1. Preparation of experiment
2. Conducting
3. Recording
Materials and Set-Up
The researchers designed the prototype through computer-aided drafting.
The following materials were gathered and utilized in the creation of the prototype.
• Arduino Uno R3
Specifications:
Microcontroller: ATmega328
Operating Voltage: 5V
Input Voltage (recommended): 7-12V
Input Voltage (limits): 6-20V
Digital I/O Pins: 14 (of which 6 provide PWM output)
Analog Input Pins: 6
DC Current per I/O Pin: 40 mA
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DC Current for 3.3V Pin: 50 mA
Quantity: 1
The Arduino Uno was used to facilitate automated movements of the
device through sets of programs.
• Micro Servo Motor SG90
Specifications:
Size: 21.5 mm × 11.8 mm × 22.7 mm
Weight: 9 grams
No-loas speed: 0.12 seconds / 60 degrees (4.8V)
Stall torque of 1.2 – 1.4 kg / cm (4.8V)
Operating temperature: -30 to +60 degrees Celsius
Dead-set: 7 microseconds
Operating voltage: 4.8V – 6V
Quantity: 2
The servo motor was used to facilitate all of device’s movements.
• Solar Panels
Specifications:
Size: 10 cm × 7 cm
Voltage: 5V
Current: 160mA
Power: 0.8 W
Quantity: 4
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The solar panels served as the main source of energy for the whole
device and to store electricity from the sun.
• 5V Single-Channel Relay Module
Specifications:
Supply voltage – 3.75V to 6V
Quiescent current: 2mA
Current when the relay is active: ~70mA
Relay maximum contact voltage – 250VAC or 30VDC
Relay maximum current – 10A
Quantity: 2
• Breadboard
Specifications:
Dimension: 6.5 × 4.4 × 0.3 inch
Rating: 5A
Quantity: 2
• LDR Photoresistors
Quantity: 4
LDR Photoresistors were used to serve as primary ingredient to
producing signals.
• Insulated Copper Wires
Quantity: 12
• Rechargeable Li-ion Batteries
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Quantity: 4
The batteries served as storage for the harnessed energy of the
device.
• PCB (Printed Circuit Board
Quantity: 3
• 10k Resistors
Quantity: 4
The resistors served as the current limiter of the device and switching
functions.
• Alligator Clip wires
Quantity: 8
The alligator clip wires were used to be used to cut/reconnect circuit,
for quick adjustment and trials.
• TP4056
Specifications:
Trickle Charge threshold Voltage: 2.9V ± 0.1V
Trickle Charge Current: 130 mA ± 10 mA
Quantity: 2
The TP4056 was used to facilitate the automatic mechanical
transformation of the device.
• Multimeter
It was used to determine the output current in the circuit.
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• Jumper wires
Quantity: 16
• 3D printer
Customized DIY Ender-3 Pro 3D Printer was used to create the
device’s casing, movable parts, etc.
• Commercial Soldering Iron
• Paper tape, Cutter, Pliers, and Cardboard
Parts and Purpose
Parts Description Purpose
Mechanical Composed of 3D printed Movable joints made of 3D printed
Levers and material to facilitate mechanical
Arms actions and movements
Mount Frame Consist of combined 3D Fixed mount holder of the device,
printed materials and base
additions.
Storage Consist of protective Main storage for sensitive parts
Frame covering made from PLA such as circuit board and the latter
3D printed material.
Table 1. Parts and Purpose of the Device
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Research Procedures and Processes
The following plan were followed by the researchers in the conduct of the
study:
Collecting, Analyzing of Related Studies and Existing Patents. The
concept behind the study was based on the idea of “Makahiya” leaves’ capability
to retract and fold upon being exposed to harsh environment or physical contact.
Taking note of its strengths and weaknesses, some parts were removed and
improvised in the recent studies. The data and concept accumulated became the
basis of the study for improvement and design.
Establishing a formal Research Study Problem. From the basis of the
study and ideas prior to the design, the researcher formulated a hypothesis and
developed a statement of the problem.
Gathering of desired materials and machinery services to produce the
Prototype. By using the knowledge and information from the previous studies, a
list of materials and methods was made and evaluated to ensure that only the most
attainable materials and methods were focused on, and at the same time,
Design and lay-out of the Prototype. The design of the device was formed
using AutoCAD 2019 (an auto desk Computer-Aided Drafting) software based on
the materials to be used, 3D builder, and rough hand sketch on pen and paper.
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Design and Lay-out of the Arduino. The design and layout of the Arduino
was formed using Tinkercad software. The software was used to simulate circuits
and Arduino code.
Manufacturing/Production. The researcher utilized available cheap and
improvised materials to produce the components of the device.
Experimentation. Upon building the prototype, an experiment was
conducted to generate and gather the results.
Gathering of Data. The researchers simulated conditions for the device
and recorded the data.
Analysis of Data. The researchers used Two-Way Analysis of Variance
(ANOVA) as a statistical tool to test if there are significant variations.
Improvement and Modification of the Device. This is where the
researchers formulated and executed needed adjustments and modifications to
determine the best combination of materials and set-up. Improvements were done
to make the device more functional.
Finalizing the Results. The research paper was finalized after the
interpretation of the results.
Publication of the research paper. The final paper was published and
submitted to for completion.
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Data Collection Procedures
The researchers used four (4) experimental tests to determine the
performance of the device which are the following:
1. Simulated Test
2. Actual Environment Test
3. Wind Tunnel Simulation Test
4. Comparison Test
Experiment 1: Simulated Test
Instruments used: Flashlight
The device was prepared and laid on a flat surface for the simulation. Using
a flashlight, the light was directed onto the device, only hitting one specific side.
The device started “transforming” and moving from an enclosed device to opening
its part and showing off its panels. The device automatically faced the location of
the light source. Then, the light source was moved at a certain angle or position
and tried to revolve it with the device, as if it is the sun. Effect or resulting action of
the device were recorded.
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The table below was used for gathering the results during the simulated
test.
Scenario Trials Effect/Resulting Action of Device

Light Sensor Action Movement of Panels
On Off Close Open
Off Lighting 1
On lighting 1
Moving the Light 1
source momentarily 2
Turning off the Light 1
Source 2
Turning on the Light 1
Source 2
Table 2. Sample Data Sheet for Simulated Test of the Device
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Experimental 2: Physical Environment Test
The device was set-up on a real environment setting. It was put on a flat
surface that had the presence of the sun. The researchers put the device on the
same location and let it stand for 24 hours.
Time interval of the sun appearing and disappearing including time related
orientation of the device was documented and recorded. A separate sheet of each
passing hour was prepared to observe movement of device every hour.
The table below was used for gathering the results during the actual environment
test.
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Time Interval Trials Effect/ Resulting Action of the
Device/Orientation/ Angle
8:00 am – 9:00 am 1
9:01 am- 10:00 am 1
10:01 am – 11:00 am 1
11: 01 – 12:00 pm 1
1:01 pm – 2:00 pm 1
2:01 pm – 3:00 pm 1
3:01 pm – 4:00 pm 1
Table 3. Sample Data Sheet for Actual Environment Test Action of Device
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Experiment 3: Wind Tunnel Simulation Test
Instrument: Improvised wind tunnel
An improvised wind tunnel simulation was conducted with the aim of
determining the endurance of the device against the wind.
Experimental 4: Comparison Test
Instrument: Solar Panel of the same size and model with same battery
capacity, and current meter
The device and the regular solar panel were tested at the same location,
around half meter. The two solar panels were subjected to the same environment
and the same time for 24 hours. From time to time, the amount of electricity each
of the device had stored was recorded.
Then, the two devices were subjected to the same environment for the next
2 more days. Data was tabulated accordingly.
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The table below was used for gathering the results during the experiment.
Time Angle of Amount of Output Amount of Output

Elevation Current (coming Current (coming
of the sun out of the TP4056) out of the Panel)
Stationary Moving Stationary Moving

Panel Panel Panel Panel
8:00 am – 9:00 am
9:01 am – 10:00 am
10:01 am – 11:00 am
11:01 am – 12:00 pm
12:01 pm – 1:00 pm
1:01 pm – 2:00 pm
2:01 pm – 3:00 pm
3:01 pm – 4:00 pm
Table 4. Sample Data Sheet for Comparison Test
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Statistical Tool and Analysis
The table below was used for analyzing the data gathered during the
trials. This determined the performance of the device in terms of the current
produced.
Amount of Output
Current (coming
Net Current
out of the TP4056)
Output Difference
Time Ā
Ā1– Ā2 Current Comparison
Stationary Moving Ā1- A (Ā 1 – Ā 2)-A
Panel Panel
(Ā2) (Ā1)
8:00 am – 9:00 am x̄ ӯ
9:01 am – 10:00 am x̄ ӯ
10:01 am – 11:00 am x̄ ӯ
11:01 am – 12:00 pm x̄ ӯ
12:01 pm – 1:00 pm x̄ ӯ
1:01 pm – 2:00 pm
x̄ ӯ
2:01 pm – 3:00 pm x̄ ӯ
3:01 pm – 4:00 pm
x̄ ӯ
Total Current
∑ x̄ ∑ӯ
Harnessed
Table 5. Performance of the Device

∑ x̄ x̄ 1 + x̄ 2 + x̄ 3
Total current harnessed = =
𝑛 𝑛
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where:
x̄ – is the average amount of current harnessed
x̄ 1 – is the amount of current for trial 1
x̄ 4 – is the amount of induced current for trial 4
x̄ 5 – is the amount of induced current for trial 5
𝑛 – is the total number of trials
Ā – average output current of Trial 1, 2 and 3
t – time
A = Amount of Consumed Current by the Arduino
Ā 1 - Amount of Output Current in a Moving Panel
Ā 2 - Amount Output Current in a Stationary Panel
Ā 1 – Ā 2 - Difference of the Two Output Currents
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The statistical tool used was a Two-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to
determine the consistency of the performance of device in given locations for a
number of set-ups.
A two-way ANOVA test is used to determine the effect of two nominal
predictor variables on a continuous outcome variable. It tests the effect of two
independent variables on a dependent variable and analyzes it on the expected
outcome along with their relationship to the outcome itself (Hayes, 2021).
In general, the table used for Two- Way ANOVA is
P- F
Trials Sum of Squares DoF Mean Square F0
value crit
MSF/
1 𝑆𝑆𝐹 = 𝐽 ∑(𝑦̅𝑖. − 𝑦̅.. )2 I-1 𝑀𝑆𝐹 = 𝑆𝑆𝐹 /(𝐼 − 1)
MSE
2 𝑆𝑆𝐹 = ∑ ∑(𝑦𝑖𝑗 − 𝑦̅𝑖. )2 I(J-1) 𝑀𝑆𝐹 = 𝑆𝑆𝐹 /(𝐼(𝐽 − 1)
3 𝑆𝑆𝑇 = ∑ ∑(𝑦𝑖𝑗 − 𝑦̅.. )2 IJ-1
Table 6. Two-way Anova

1 1
Where: 𝑦̅𝑖. = 𝐽 ∑𝐽𝑗=1 𝑦𝑖𝑗 and 𝑦̅.. = 𝐼𝐽 ∑𝐼𝑖=1 ∑𝐽𝑗=1 𝑦𝑖𝑗
If the computed F value is greater than critical F value, reject null hypothesis.
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In addition, the analysis of cost and benefits of the device would be made
in the end of the study to answer the statement of the problem number four,
therefore, the payback period would also be calculated using the formula below:
𝑎𝑚𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑡 𝑡𝑜 𝑏𝑒 𝑖𝑛𝑣𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑒𝑑
𝑃𝑎𝑦𝑏𝑎𝑐𝑘 𝑃𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑜𝑑 =
𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑎𝑛𝑛𝑢𝑎𝑙 𝑛𝑒𝑡 𝑐𝑎𝑠ℎ 𝑓𝑙𝑜𝑤
Payback period refers to the amount of time it takes to recover the cost of an
investment. And shorter paybacks mean more attractive investments, while longer
payback periods are less desirable (Kagan, J., 2021).
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END NOTES
Hayes, A. (2022, February 8). Two-way ANOVA. Investopedia. Retrieved May 4,
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CHAPTER 4
PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS, AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA
This chapter includes the presentation of the findings, analysis and
interpretation of the data gathered to satisfy the statement of the problem stated in
the Chapter 1 of this paper wherein, its main objective is to determine whether the
Typhoon Resilient Self-Storing Phototrophic Solar Panel System (TRESS-PSPS)
device can perform accordingly with respect to its design and function. The
researchers adhere to the research procedure stated in the Chapter 3 of this paper
in order to decide with the design of the device and the data gathering tools to be
used.
Design of the Typhoon Resilient Self-Storing Phototropic Solar Panel
System (TRESS-PSPS)
The design of the TRESS-PSPS is divided into two main categories, the
hardware and the software design. An enclosure casing or chassis is included in
the hardware design where the components are organized and connected
properly. The software design includes the set of codes or programming of the
Arduino Uno R3 which facilitates automates movements of the device.
Hardware Design. The physical outlook of the device is presented below.
The enclosure is made of polylactic acid (PLA) material using a 3D printer. The
enclosure ensures that the components inside are protected from its environment.
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Plate 1: Dimensions
Plate 1 shows the dimensions of the device. The height is 150 mm while its
base’s length and width are 100 mm and 81 mm respectively. The base, which has
a lower compartment is where the battery is stored. The middle compartment
whose height is 110 mm and the width is 70 mm is where the electrical components
are kept. The upper compartment as shown above is where the servo motor is
located.
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Plate 2: Outside Components
Plate 2 shows the arm where the solar panels are mounted. As shown on
plate 1, the side of the device has holes. The holes are located 42.5 mm from the
side of the device. This is where the arms are mounted and can move when there
is a light source. The arm is also made from polylactic acid (PLA) material using
3D printer.
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Plate 3: Top and Bottom Components
Plate 3 shows the components in the top and bottom compartments. The
top compartment consists of the servo motor while the bottom compartment is for
the chassis of the rechargeable li-ion battery as shown on the first photo above.
Plate 4: Device’s Full Set-up
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Plate 4 shows the device’s full set-up. The arm is already mounted on the
side of the enclosure together with the solar panels. As shown on Plate 4, the
solar panels are oriented on a zero-degree angle.
Figure 8. Schematic Diagram
Figure 4 shows the Schematic Diagram of TRESS-PSPS. Arduino Uno R3,
LDR photoresistors, micro servo motor, 5V single relay module, TP4056, 10k
resistors, solar panels and rechargeable Li-ion batteries are the major electronic
components used in this project.
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The Arduino Uno R3 serves as the microcontroller of the system. It
facilitates the automated movements of the device through sets of programs or
codes. The modules were powered by 3.5V coming from the USB power supply.
The external switch serves as the main switch for the system to start. The 14.8V
supply is rectified and reduced to meet the necessary voltage to operate the
Arduino UNO R3 and further regulated to 5V for the input voltage of the single-
channel relay.
The LDR photoresistors serve as the sensors for the detection of the
intensity of light entering the solar panels. The LDR then sends the information to
the Arduino Uno R3 microcontroller.
The micro servo motor circuit is then constructed. Unlike the gearbox
motor, the servo motor contains an actuator which facilitates the control of
movement, angle, and speed of the rotor.
The 5V single-relay module acts as the automatic switch of the device. The
10k resistors are used as the current limiter of the device. The TP4056 is the
primary circuit used for charging the batteries.
Software Design. This contains the software components and the
operational procedure of the Typhoon Resilient Self-Storing Solar Panel System.
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Figure 9. Operational Procedure

Figure 9 shows the operational procedure of TRESS-PSPS. First, it should
be prepared for the operation. Next, it should be connected to the main power
supply through connecting the internal switch. Then, the device will be placed
outside, preferably in an open area, where it could be directly hit by the sunlight. If
there is no malfunction, the device will operate normally and will not move or do
any action as long as there is no sufficient light detected by its sensors yet.
However, if the device detects that there is already an increasing intensity of light
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from the sun, it will properly execute commands to move the other side of the panel
once it receives the sufficient amount of light it requires.
If there is a sufficient amount of light detected, then the device will execute
command and move the back panel to face where the sun is located. It will stop
moving as soon as the sensor from this panel detects and receives an equal
amount of light the first panel detects and receives. But, if there is no detected idle
load, the device will be on standby and will operate normally, waiting for detecting
light
The plate below shows the code used in programming the device with its
different functions and purposes using the C++ language.
Plate 5. Program for Sensor Reading
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Opening Servo Code
The “#include” function enables the different libraries to be included or
uploaded in the code. The “void setup” includes actions that will only happen once
when the device is operating. While “void loop” includes continuous or repeating
actions that would happen during the operation of the device.
Since the “if (Serial.available)” function does not have a corresponding
“else” statement, nothing will happen if the serial library is not available. The
“Servo” indicates the specifications of the servo motor to be used by the system,
its limitations and operating specifics. The “int” stores integers (whole numbers),
without decimals, such as 123 or -123 stores floating point numbers in the
program’s memory. This includes the light dependent diodes, and the other
commands and rules to be executed once the specific conditions are met.
Above shows the first function in the code. The “void setup” includes
functions that will happen only once during the operation of the device. This part
of the code basically shows the code for the starting up the system of the device.
Plate 5 shows the part of the code where the actions included will take place
repeatedly during the operation of the device thus, it is under the “void loop”
function. This part basically shows the detection of loads whether it is “ON” or
“OFF.” In addition, when the load is “ON” the “Irms” or the load current will also be
known. It will also be recorded in the logging system of the device.
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At the same time, pins A0, A1, A2, and A3 are the output pins on which
commands are released on the sensor readings, while A9 and A10 are the pins for
the commands to be executed towards servo motors.
Command and Rules Code Setup
The device operates with certain number of commands and rules within the
system:
1. If the sensor reading is not equal (on both panel sensors), the one with
the lowest reading will move towards the one with the biggest reading.
2. If the sensor reading is equal on all sensors (both panels’ sensors),
there would be no motion, and both servo motors will stop moving.
3. If there are no sensed readings, there would be no movement.
4. If there is no light detected by sensors, or if manually switched, the servo
motors will reset back to their original position.
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Plate 6. Actual Prototype

Plate 6 shows the actual prototype of the device. As shown above,
the solar panels are oriented on the direction of the sun.
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Data Presentation and Analysis
The table below was used for gathering the results during the simulated
test.
Scenario Trials Effect/Resulting Action of Device
Light Sensor Action Movement of Panels
On Off Close Open
Off Lighting 1
On lighting 1
Moving the Light 1 Unsteady/Steady
source momentarily 2 Unsteady/Steady
3 Unsteady/Steady
Turning off the Light 1
Source 2
Turning on the Light 1
Source 2
Table 7. Simulated Test of the Device
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Data showed that the panel automatically closes the moment the sensors
detected that the light source is not present. Moving the light source momentarily
results in an unsteady to steady movement from the device and the panel.
Physical Environment Test
The device was set-up on a real environment setting. It was put on a flat
surface that had the presence of the sun. The researchers put the device on the
same location and let it stand for 24 hours.
Time Interval Effect/ Resulting Action of the
Device/Orientation/ Angle
8:00 am – 9:00 am Sensor turns on, panel slowly opens
9:01 am- 10:00 am Sensor turned on; panel does not move
10:01 am – 11:00 am Sensor turned on; panel slightly moves
11: 01 – 12:00 pm Sensor turned on; panel is facing the sun
1:01 pm – 2:00 pm Sensor turned on; panel starts to go down
2:01 pm – 3:00 pm Sensor turned on; panel moved to face the
sun
3:01 pm – 4:00 pm Sensor turned on; panel started to repeat
the same position at 8 am but at the
opposite side
Table 8. Actual Environment Test Action of Device

Results showed that the sensors are working perfectly. The panel started
tracking the exact source of light starting from 8 am until noon where it is directly
parallel to the sky as the sun approaches zenith. The sun then moves through the
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horizon for sunset, panel started to repeat the same position at 8 am but at the
opposite side.
Wind Tunnel Simulation Test
An improvised wind tunnel simulation was conducted with the aim of
determining the endurance of the device against the wind.
Figure 10. Improvised Wind Tunnel Simulation
From Table 207-1 of NSCP 2010 6th Edition, the Basic Wind Zone for Albay
Province is v= 250 kph. The computed pressure for the simulation is at least 46
psi. Improvised wind tunnel simulation was conducted using a closed tunnel and a
compressor with 60 psi. Results showed that the device is capable of withstanding
a 250 kph wind velocity equal to a typhoon.
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Comparison Test
The two solar panels were subjected to the same environment and the
same time for 24 hours.
The table below was used for gathering the results during the experiment.
Time Angle of Temperature Amount of Output Amount of Output
Stationary Stationary
Panel Panel
8:00 am – 9:00 am 30° 27˚ C 0.03 A 0.04 A
9:01 am – 10:00 am 30° 29˚ C 0.05 A 0.06 A
10:01 am – 11:00 am 30° 30˚ C 0.06 A 0.06 A
11:01 am – 12:00 pm 30° 33˚ C 0.07 A 0.06 A
12:01 pm – 1:00 pm 30° 35˚ C 0.08 A 0.09 A
1:01 pm – 2:00 pm 30° 34.6˚ C 0.07 A 0.08 A
2:01 pm – 3:00 pm 30° 33.2˚ C 0.06 A 0.07 A
3:01 pm – 4:00 pm 30° 29.7˚ C 0.03 A 0.05 A
Moving Panel Moving Panel
8:00 am – 9:00 am 30° 27˚ C 0.05 A 0.06 A
9:01 am – 10:00 am 64° 29˚ C 0.07 A 0.08 A
10:01 am – 11:00 am 80° 30˚ C 0.08 A 0.09 A
11:01 am – 12:00 pm 90° 33˚ C 0.10 A 0.10 A
12:01 pm – 1:00 pm 110° 35˚ C 0.08 A 0.09 A
1:01 pm – 2:00 pm 124° 34.6˚ C 0.07 A 0.09 A
2:01 pm – 3:00 pm 140° 33.2˚ C 0.06 A 0.08 A
3:01 pm – 4:00 pm 154.33° 27˚ C 0.06 A 0.07 A
Table 9 Comparison Test Conducted on April 29, 2022
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Panel Panel
8:00 am – 9:00 am 30° 25˚ C 0.00 A 0.02 A
9:01 am – 10:00 am 30° 27˚ C 0.01 A 0.06 A
10:01 am – 11:00 am 30° 30˚ C 0.04 A 0.06 A
11:01 am – 12:00 pm 30° 33˚ C 0.05 A 0.06 A
12:01 pm – 1:00 pm 30° 33˚ C 0.06 A 0.07 A
1:01 pm – 2:00 pm 30° 30.6˚ C 0.03 A 0.05 A
2:01 pm – 3:00 pm 30° 31.2˚ C 0.05 A 0.07 A
3:01 pm – 4:00 pm 30° 29˚ C 0.05 A 0.07 A
8:00 am – 9:00 am 30° 25˚ C 0.03 A 0.04 A
9:01 am – 10:00 am 60° 27˚ C 0.04 A 0.05 A
10:01 am – 11:00 am 75° 30˚ C 0.06 A 0.07 A
11:01 am – 12:00 pm 90° 33˚ C 0.06 A 0.80 A
12:01 pm – 1:00 pm 110° 33˚ C 0.08 A 0.09 A
1:01 pm – 2:00 pm 124° 30.6˚ C 0.07 A 0.09 A
2:01 pm – 3:00 pm 140° 31.2˚ C 0.05 A 0.08 A
3:01 pm – 4:00 pm 154.33° 29˚ C 0.05 A 0.07 A
Table 10. Comparison Test Conducted on April 30, 2022
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Panel Panel
8:00 am – 9:00 am 30° 0.03 A 0.04 A
27˚ C
9:01 am – 10:00 am 30° 27˚ C 0.04 A 0.06 A
10:01 am – 11:00 am 30° 0.05 A 0.068 A

30˚ C
11:01 am – 12:00 pm 30° 0.07 A 0.08 A

32˚ C
12:01 pm – 1:00 pm 30° 0.07 A 0.09 A

33˚ C
1:01 pm – 2:00 pm 30° 0.08 A 0.10 A

31˚ C
2:01 pm – 3:00 pm 30° 0.07 A 0.08 A

30.2˚ C
3:01 pm – 4:00 pm 30° 0.06 A 0.08 A

28˚ C
8:00 am – 9:00 am 0.05 A 0.06 A

35° 27˚ C
9:01 am – 10:00 am 0.06 A 0.07 A

64° 27˚ C
10:01 am – 11:00 am 0.08 A 0.09 A

80° 30˚ C
11:01 am – 12:00 pm 0.09 A 0.11 A

90° 32˚ C
12:01 pm – 1:00 pm 0.08 A 0.09 A

110° 33˚ C
1:01 pm – 2:00 pm 0.08 A 0.10 A

124° 31˚ C
2:01 pm – 3:00 pm 0.08 A 0.09 A

140° 30.2˚ C
3:01 pm – 4:00 pm 0.08 A 0.09 A

154° 28˚ C
Table 11. Comparison Test Conducted on May 1, 2022
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The experiment was conducted at Cabangan, Camalig, Albay-Philippines.
The current consumption of the device was gathered to determine the efficiency of
the device. The table below was used for analyzing the data gathered during the
trials.
Amount of Output
Current (coming out
Net Current
of the TP4056)
Output Difference
Time Ā
Ā1– Ā2 Current Comparison
Moving Ā1- A (Ā 1 – Ā 2)-A
Stationary
Panel
Panel (Ā2)
(Ā1)
8:00 am – 9:00 am 0.02 A 0.05 A 0.03 A 0.004000 A -0.01600 A
9:01 am – 10:00
am 0.033333 A 0.073333 A 0.04 A 0.027333 A -0.00600 A
10:01 am – 11:00
am 0.05 A 0.086667 A 0.036667 A 0.040667 A -0.00933 A
11:01 am – 12:00
pm 0.063333 A 0.103333 A 0.04 A 0.057333 A -0.00600 A
12:01 pm – 1:00
pm 0.07 A 0.086667 A 0.016667 A 0.040667 A -0.02933 A
1:01 pm – 2:00 pm
0.06 A 0.086667 A 0.026667 A 0.040667 A -0.01933 A
2:01 pm – 3:00 pm 0.06 A 0.076667 A 0.016667 A 0.030667 A -0.02933 A
3:01 pm – 4:00 pm
0.046667 A 0.073333 A 0.026667 A 0.027333 A -0.01933 A
Table 12. Performance of the Device
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Figure 11. Average of current gained from Trial 1 to Trial 3
Figure 11 shows the average of current gained through three trials for panel
A and the device, panel B. It is evident, therefore, that the optimum amount of light
is in between 11 am-12 pm with the panels gaining 0.063333 A and 0.103333 A
respectively. The weather was clear with little to no clouds. The results of the test
show that the device with the solar tracking mechanism can harness more energy
and is more efficient than a mounted panel at any time of the day. It also illustrates
the significance of tracking the solar azimuth, where the amount of current
harnessed is at most quantity.
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0.08
0.07
0.06
0.05
0.04
0.03
0.02
0.01
0
Net Current Harnessed by the Device (A) Current Harnessed by Panel A (A)
Figure 12. Net Current Harnessed by The Device versus the Amount
Harnessed by Panel A
Figure 12 shows the net current harnessed by the device versus the amount
harnessed by panel A. Calculating for the amount of current by subtracting the
amount of current consumed by the Arduino from the amount of current harnessed
from the sun by the device gives us an insight whether the device is self-sustaining
or not. Results show that the device produces more energy than the amount it
consumes. Panel A could harness more current than the device when the current
consumed by the Arduino is subtracted.
However, comparing the amount of current harnessed by the device and
Panel A without taking into account the current consumed of the Arduino/solar
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tracking system, it significantly shows that it produces more and consistent current
than the fixed panels.
Two-Way ANOVA
A two-way ANOVA was performed to determine the effect of the time and angle
of the sun from 8 am - 9am to 3pm – 4 pm and the movement (Stationary/Moving)
of the panel on the current harnessed by Panel A and Panel B.
Table 13. Plotting of Values
Table 14. ANOVA TABLE
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Two sample ANOVA - fixed test, using F distribution (right-
tailed)[Validation]
Factor - A
1. H0 = There is no significant difference between the performance of Stationary
Panel A and the moving Panel B.
H1 = There is a significant difference between the performance of Stationary Panel
A and the moving Panel B.
Since the p-value < α, H0 is rejected.
All time group averages are considered to be not equal.
In other words, the difference between the averages of time groups is big enough
to be statistically significant.
2. P-value
The p-value equals 0.0002141, (P(x≤5.7951) = 0.9998). It means that the chance
of type I error (rejecting a correct H0) is small: 0.0002141 (0.021%). The smaller
the p-value the more it supports H1.
3. Test statistic
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The test statistic FA equals 5.7951, which is not in the 95% region of acceptance:
[-∞: 2.3127].
4. Effect size
The observed effect size η2 is large, 0.56. This indicates that the magnitude of
the difference between the average is large.
Factor - B
1. H0 hypothesis
H0 = There is no significant difference between the current harnessed in terms of
time and the angle of the sun.
H1 = There is a significant difference between the current harnessed in terms of
time and the angle of the sun.
Since the p-value < α, H0 is rejected.
Movement group averages are considered to be not equal.
In other words, the difference between the averages of movement groups is big
enough to be statistically significant.
2. P-value
The p-value equals 0.0004831, (P(x≤15.0943) = 0.9995). It means that the
chance of type I error (rejecting a correct H0) is small: 0.0004831 (0.048%). The
smaller the p-value the more it supports H1.
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3. Test statistic
The test statistic FA equals 15.0943, which is not in the 95% region of
acceptance: [-∞: 4.1491].
4. Effect size
The observed effect size η2 is large, 0.32. This indicates that the magnitude of
the difference between the average is large.
Interaction AB
H0 = The effect of the angle and time does not depend on the effect of the
movement of the panel
H1 = The effect of the angle and time depends on the effect of the movement of
the panel.
Since the p-value > α, H0 cannot be rejected.
The averages of all groups are assumed to be equal.
In other words, the difference between the averages of all groups is not big
enough to be statistically significant.
A non-significance result cannot prove that H0 is correct, only that the null
assumption cannot be rejected.
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This proves that the movement of the device would only rely on the presence of
sun light and not with the time.
2. P-value
The p-value equals 0.9149, (P(x≤0.3666) = 0.08508). It means that the chance of
type I error, rejecting a correct H0, is too high: 0.9149 (91.49%). The larger the p-
value the more it supports H0.
3. Test statistic
The test statistic FA equals 0.3666, which is in the 95% region of acceptance: [-
∞: 2.3127].
4. Effect size
The observed effect size η2 is medium, 0.074. This indicates that the magnitude
of the difference between the average is medium.
Results of the experiment showed that there is a direct relationship in terms
of utilizing the presence of the sun and developing a certain mechanism that
mimics or replicates the natural movement of the plant which is called the
phototropism. By definition, it is the ability of plants to create movements in
accordance to the sun’ location. In addition, this allowed the researchers to
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conclude that TRESS-PSPS would be able to store itself when there is no light
present.
Safety
Since the device does not involve high amount of current and is made with
polylactic acid (PLA), a non-toxic, sturdy material that has an impressive tensile
strength of about 7,250 psi. The device structure complies with Basic Safety
Standards with small devices. In addition, the compact design of the device
ensures that the only parts exposed are the panels, sensors and the arms.
The design of the Typhoon Resilient and Self-Storing Phototropic Solar Panel
System adhered to the electrical safety code from the Philippine Electrical
Code.
Article 1.0.1.8. Wiring Planning states that the number of wires and
circuits confined in a single enclosure be varyingly restricted. Limiting the
number of circuits in a single enclosure will minimize the effects from a short
circuit or ground fault in one circuit.
Article 1.10.1.3. Examination, Identification, and Use of Equipment
states that listed or labeled equipment shall be installed and used in
accordance with any instructions included in the listing or labeling.
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Article 1.10.1.4. Voltages states that the voltage considered shall be
that at which the circuit operates. The voltage rating of an electrical
equipment shall not be less than the nominal voltage of a circuit to which it
is connected.
Article 1.10.1.12c. Integrity of Electrical Equipment and Connections
states that internal parts of electrical equipment, including busbars, wiring
terminals, insulators, and other surfaces, shall not be damaged or
contaminated by foreign materials such as paint, plaster, cleaners,
abrasives, or corrosive residues. There shall be no damaged parts that may
adversely affect safe operation or mechanical strength of the equipment
such as parts that are broken; bent; cut; or deteriorated by corrosion,
chemical action, or overheating.
Article 2.30.5.1. Service Equipment – Enclosed or Guarded states
that energized parts of service equipment shall be enclosed as specified in
2.30.5.1(a) or guarded as specified in 2.30.5.1(b). Energized parts shall be
enclosed so that they will not be exposed to accidental contact or shall be
guarded. Energized parts that are not enclosed shall be installed on a
switchboard, panelboard, or control board and guarded in accordance with
1.10.1.18 and 1.10.2.2. Where energized parts are guarded as provided in
1.10.2.2(a)(1) and (a)(2), a means for locking or sealing doors providing
access to energized parts shall be provided.
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Article 2.40.3.1a. Protection from Physical Damage states
overcurrent devices shall be protected from physical damage by one of the
following:
1) Installation in enclosures, cabinets, cutout boxes, or equipment
assemblies
2) Mounting on open-type switchboards, panelboards, or control
boards that are in rooms or enclosures free from dampness and
easily ignitable material and are accessible only to qualified
personnel
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Cost-Benefit Analysis
The cost-benefit analysis is the comparison of the costs and benefits of the
Typhoon Resilient Self-Storing Phototropic Solar Panel System. The costs and
benefits of the device were quantified in monetary terms after adjusting for the time
value of money. The costs of the device were determined by the price of the device
and its added monthly expense. To get the selling price of the device, the
researchers added a 10% markup to the total cost of materials used in its
fabrication, which can be seen in Appendix: Bill of Materials.
𝑆𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑃𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑒 = 𝐶𝑜𝑠𝑡𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑀𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑎𝑙𝑠 + 10% 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐶𝑜𝑠𝑡𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑀𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑎𝑙𝑠
𝑆𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑃𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑒 = 𝑃ℎ𝑝 5702 + (𝑃ℎ𝑝 5702 × 0.10)
𝑆𝑒𝑙𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑃𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑒 = 𝑃ℎ𝑝 6272.20
The benefit of the device on the other hand, was determined by the net
energy produced by the device.
𝑁𝑒𝑡 𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 = 𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 𝑃𝑟𝑜𝑑𝑢𝑐𝑒𝑑 (𝑆𝑜𝑙𝑎𝑟 𝑝𝑎𝑛𝑒𝑙 ) − 𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑢𝑚𝑒𝑑 (𝐴𝑟𝑑𝑢𝑖𝑛𝑜)
𝑁𝑒𝑡 𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 = [𝑃𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟(𝑃𝑎𝑛𝑒𝑙 ) − 𝑃𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑢𝑚𝑒𝑑 (𝐴𝑟𝑑𝑢𝑖𝑛𝑜 + 𝑚𝑜𝑡𝑜𝑟)](𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒)
𝑁𝑒𝑡 𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 = (𝑉𝑝𝑎𝑛𝑒𝑙 𝐼 𝑝𝑎𝑛𝑒𝑙 − 𝑉𝑎𝑟𝑑 𝐼 𝑎𝑟𝑑 )(𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒)
𝑘𝑊
𝑁𝑒𝑡 𝑒𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 = [(5𝑉 )(. 6367𝐴) − (5𝑉 )(. 046𝐴)](8ℎ𝑟𝑠) ( )
1000𝑉𝐴
𝑁𝑒𝑡 𝑒𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 = 0.0236𝑘𝑊ℎ
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The cost of the output of the device was then obtained by multiplying the
net energy produced by the most recent rate of Albay Power and Energy
Corporation (APEC) for residential areas which is Php12.1458 per kWh. The result
is multiplied by 365 to get the annual cost of energy produced.
𝐶𝑜𝑠𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑂𝑢𝑡𝑝𝑢𝑡 𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 = (0.0236𝑘𝑊ℎ )(𝑃ℎ𝑝12.1458)(2) = 𝑃ℎ𝑝0.5733
𝐶𝑜𝑠𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑂𝑢𝑡𝑝𝑢𝑡 𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 (𝐴𝑛𝑛𝑢𝑎𝑙 ) = (𝑃ℎ𝑝0.5733)(365 𝑑𝑎𝑦𝑠) = 𝑃ℎ𝑝 209.2545
In order to calculate the time, it will take for the consumer to make up with the costs
of the device, the formula following is used:
𝐶𝑜𝑠𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑚𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑎𝑙𝑠
𝐶𝑜𝑠𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 𝑃𝑟𝑜𝑑𝑢𝑐𝑒𝑑
𝑃ℎ𝑝 6272.20
𝑃ℎ𝑝 209.2545
𝑃𝑎𝑦𝑏𝑎𝑐𝑘 𝑃𝑒𝑟𝑖𝑜𝑑 = 30 𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑠
The payback period of 30 years is not acceptable as the average life
expectancy of a solar panel is twenty-five (25) to thirty (30) years. This means that
the consumer will not be able to make up with the cost of the device without scaling
into a bigger solar panel.
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END NOTES
Association of Structural Engineers of the Philippines, Inc. (2010). National
structural code of the Philippines.
Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Philippines. (1900). Philippine
electrical code. Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines: Institute of Integrated
Electrical Engineers of the Philippines.
Richardson, L. (2021, October 8). How long do solar panels last? panel lifespan
explained: Energysage. EnergySage Blog. Retrieved May 6, 2022, from
https://news.energysage.com/how-long-do-solar-panels-last/
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CHAPTER 5
SUMMARY, FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
This chapter contains the discussion of the results of the experiment used
with the prototype that was designed in this chapter. With the inclusion of the
recommendation of the researchers for the said purposes. The recommendations
will serve as reference to future researchers.
Summary
The conducted research study intended to design, fabricate, and test the
performance of a Typhoon Resilient and Self-Storing Phototropic Solar Panel
System. The idea of a solar panel device that tracks the angle of the sun was
created from the review of existing designs and studies related to solar tracking
and the mechanism of phototropism on plants.
This study aims to create a device that can harness the optimum amount of
energy from the sun while being able to withstand typhoons and strong winds.
Compared to a normal mounted solar panel, the design was costly. However,
results show that solar tracking improves the efficiency and the amount of current
harnessed from the sun. Increasing the area of the panels or increasing the
number of panels yields more current as the current consumed by the Arduino
remains the same. Due to the unavailability of the materials, the fabrication of the
device took 1 month to complete. In addition, several errors during the fabrication
process were encountered such as the calibration of sensors wiring systems.
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Findings
On the basis of the analysis of the gathered data, these findings were generated:
1. During the fabrication of the device, the researchers found out that the size
of the panels placed a significant role in harnessing energy. Therefore,
increasing the area of the solar panels would significantly improve the
performance of the device since the current harnessed was only self-
sufficient. The consumption of the Arduino stays the same even if the area
of the panel is increased.
2. The device with the solar tracking mechanism can harness more energy
and is more efficient than a mounted panel at any time of the day. It also
illustrates the significance of tracking the solar azimuth, where the amount
of current harnessed is at most quantity. The panel automatically closes the
moment the sensors detect the absence of the light source. The device was
able to withstand 250 kph of wind velocity in a wind tunnel simulation which
solidifies its typhoon resiliency.
3. In terms of functionality, the device was able to automatically open after the
sensors detect the presence of light and closes at night time. In terms of
safety, the device conforms to basic safety standards. The design of the
Typhoon Resilient and Self-Storing Phototropic Solar Panel System
adhered to the electrical safety code from the Philippine Electrical Code. In
terms of efficiency, TRESS-PSPS produces more energy than the amount
it consumes. The device can harness more and consistent current than the
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4. The cost-benefit analysis shows that the initial costs of the device is greater
than its benefits however, these costs can be recovered after 30 years of
using the device.
Conclusions
1. The design of TRESS-PSPS Device was made to obtain the optimum
current harnessed while being able to perform its self-storing mechanism in
order to avoid damages against external factors such as typhoons and
strong winds. The device was able to meet the design criteria used to
support the computations and the different systems of its design, such as
trackers and mechanical parts to compute and analyze the structural
design. The design of the device focuses on a very compact box design
structure which enabled it to withstand multiple simulated weather
conditions such as typhoon.
2. Since the fixed mount panels does not involve any circuitry that consumes
energy, it is expected to conclude that it produces more current than the
device, however if compared to the amount of current produced without
taking into account the presence of Arduino/solar tracking system, it
significantly shows that it produces more and consistent current than the
fixed panels. This will lead us into conclusion that if the area of the panels
is increased, the amount of energy harnessed by the device would
significantly increase as well compared to the amount of current consumed
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by the Arduino which would stay the same regardless of the size of the
panels.
3. There is a direct relationship in terms of utilizing the presence of the sun
and developing a certain mechanism that mimics or replicates the natural
movement of the plant which is called the phototropism. In addition, this
allows the researchers to develop a conclusion that TRESS-PSPS can store
itself when there is no light present. In terms of safety, the device conforms
to basic safety standards such as design structure, electrical and
mechanical safety standards for moving parts.
4. The payback period of 30 years is not acceptable as the average life
expectancy of a solar panel is twenty-five (25) to thirty (30) years. This
means that the consumer will not be able to make up with the cost of the
device without scaling into a bigger solar panel.
Recommendations
In view of the findings of this research, the following recommendations were
proposed:
1. To adjust the design of the device in order to make it more compact as the
designed by the researchers is a prototype at its simplest form.
2. To increase the area of the panels used in the device as the results show
that increasing the area would significantly improve the amount of current
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harnessed by the device as the current consumed by the Arduino stays the
same.
3. To utilize materials that conforms to building and structural standards set by
the government for bigger panels for mass production and to record the
fluctuations in voltage produced by the device to generate a more accurate
and more coherent result.
4. To scale into bigger pannels to make up with the cost of the device.
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10.1109/APEEC.2019.8720715.
What is an Arduino? (n.d.). Retrieved May 3, 2022, from
https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/what-is-an-
arduino/all#:~:text=Arduino%20consists%20of%20both%20a,code%20to
%20the%20physical%20board.
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APPENDICES
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Computations
Resistant of the Device Against Wind Pressure
Figure 13. Design Wind Pressures on Walls and Roofs
h = 7cm
l = 7 cm
w = 10 cm
From NSCP 2010 6th Edition
From 207.4.2.1 Main Wind – Force Resisting System
𝑃𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 𝜆 𝐾𝑧𝑡 𝐼𝑤 𝑃𝑠9
Where;
𝑃𝑛𝑒𝑡 = net design wind pressure for equation 207-2, kPa
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λ = adjustment factor for building height and exposure from figures 207-2A and
207.3
𝐾𝑧𝑡 = Topographic factor as defined in 207.5.7
𝐼𝑤 = importance factor
𝑃𝑠9 = Simplified design wind pressure for exposure B at h = 9m and Iw = 1.0
from figure 207-3, kPa
For λ
207.5.6.3 Exposure categories Exposure C
From figure 207-2A
Height = 0.15m, Exposure C
Via Interpolation
4.5m − 0.15m 1.21 − 𝜆

=
6.0m − 0.15m 1.29 − 𝜆
λ = 0.978
For 𝐾𝑧𝑡
From 207.5.7.2 Topographic factor
𝐾𝑧𝑡 = 1
For 𝐼𝑤
Using table 207-3 and Table 103-1
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From table 103-1: Occupancy category IV
From table 207-3: 𝐼𝑤 = 1.00
From figure 207-3
Interior Zones
Roofs - Zone 1
Wall - Zone 4
End Zones
Roofs – Zone 2
Wall - Zone 5
Corner Zones
Roofs - Zone 3
a = 10% of least horizontal dimension or 0.4h, whichever is smaller but not less
than either 4% of least horizontal dimension or 0.9m
a = 0.7 cm
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Zone Effective 𝑃𝑛𝑒𝑡9 Ȩ𝑃𝑎 𝑃𝑠
Area(m2)
1 0.004816 0.91 -2.15 -1.24
2 0.003976 0.91 -3.87 -2.96
3 0.000784 0.91 -6.16 -5.25
4 0.040612 2.19 -2.34
5 0.0084 2.19 -2.98
Table 15. Design Wind Pressures on Walls and Roofs of Enclosed Buildings with h
≤ 18m. Components and Classing
Zone 𝑃𝑠 = 𝜆 𝐾𝑧𝑡 𝐼𝑤 𝑃𝑠9, 𝑘𝑃𝑎
1 -1.21
2 -2.89
3 -5.13
4 -4.43
5 -5.05
Table 16. Minimum Pressures
Since Ps is more than 0.5 kPa, design wind load is equal to Ps multiplied by the
exposed area.
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Improvised Wind Tunnel Simulation
Formula for velocity pressure,

1
𝑃 = 𝜌𝑣 2 ; ρ = density of air = 1.3 kg/m3
2
v = 250 kph (from NSCP Table 207-1)

𝑘𝑚 1000𝑚 ℎ
v = (250 ℎ
)(
𝑘𝑚
)(
3600𝑠
)
v= 69.4 m/s
1 1.3 𝑘𝑔 𝑚 2 𝑘𝑃𝑎
𝑃= (
2 𝑚3
) (69.4
𝑠
) ( 𝑚)
2
1000 𝑘𝑔. 𝑠 2
𝑚
𝑃 = 3.13 𝑘𝑃𝑎 = 46 𝑝𝑠𝑖
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APPENDIX A
DESIGN OF THE DEVICE
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Orthographic View of Panel Arm
Orthographic and Isometric View of Power Supply Chassis
APPENDIX A (CONTINUATION)
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Orthographic and Isometric View of Servo Motor
Schematic Diagram of Arduino Uno
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APPENDIX A (CONTINUATION)
Device’s Full Set-up
Isometric and Orthographic View of the Enclosure/ Casing
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APPENDIX B
INSTRUMENTS USED IN DATA GATHERING
multimeter
protractor
110
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APPENDIX C
DOCUMENTATION OF PROCESSES
Drafting of the Plan for Prototype Design
Light Detection Simulated Test
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APPENDIX C (CONTINUATION)
Initial testing of the Device’s Arm
3D Printing of Hardware Components
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Wind Tunnel Simulated Test
113
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Device during Wind Tunnel Simulated Test
114
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Physical Environment and Comparison Test
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APPENDIX D
DEVICE’S SET-UP AND COMPONENTS
Arduino Uno and Breadboard
Electrical Components Casing of the Electrical Components
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APPENDIX D (CONTINUATION)
Components of the Device
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Device Prototype
Appendix E
SOLAR ANGLES
Location: Cabangan, Camalig, Albay 123.671264 E 13.182178 N +08:00 UTC
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Solar Angle at 08:17 am is -55.67
Appendix E (CONTINUATION)
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Appendix E (CONTINUATION)
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APPENDIX E (CONTINUATION)
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Solar Angle at 12:17 pm is 4.33
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*Solar noon is at 11:42:47 am with 0 solar angle.
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APPENDIX E
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APPENDIX E
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APPENDIX F
BILL OF MATERIALS
Materials Quantity Amount Total

Amount
Arduino Uno R3 1 ₱ 250.00 ₱ 250.00
Micro Servo Motor SG90 2 ₱ 398.00 ₱ 796.00
Solar Panels (10 cm × 7 cm) 4 ₱ 100.00 ₱ 400.00
5V Single Channel Relay Module 1 ₱ 50.00 ₱ 50.00
1 ₱ 160.00 ₱ 160.00
DC geared motor 1 ₱ 67.00 ₱ 67.00
1 ₱ 169.00 ₱ 169.00
Breadboard 2 ₱ 60.00 ₱ 120.00
LDR Photoresistors 4 ₱ 20.00 ₱ 80.00
Rechargeable Li-ion Battery 4 ₱ 40.00 ₱ 160.00
Insulated Copper Wire 12 ₱ 4.00 ₱ 48.00
PCB 3 ₱ 30.00 ₱ 90.00
10k Resistors 4 ₱ 2.00 ₱ 8.00
Alligator Clip Wires 8 ₱ 10.00 ₱ 80.00
TP4056 2 ₱ 150.00 ₱ 300.00
Jumper Wires 16 ₱ 20.00 ₱ 320.00
Cardboard 1 ₱ 15.00 ₱ 15.00
Paper Tape 1 ₱ 20.00 ₱ 20.00
Filament 1 ₱ 569.00 ₱ 569.00
Labor - ₱ 2500.00 ₱ 2500.00
OVERALL TOTAL ₱ 6202.00
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ENGR. DARWIN M. MURILLO, PME
Bicol University
Dear Sir:
You are hereby requested to act as the adviser of CHRISTIAN E. BONTO,

CHRISTINE B. BORLAGDAN, SIMON LATRELL T. CIMANES, CASTEL V.
NOLEAL, CHERRY LOU M. OLAGUERA for their Project Study entitled
“DEVELOPMENT OF TYPHOON RESILIENT AND SELF-STORING
PHOTOTROPIC SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM”.
As such, you are to do the following duties and functions:

1. To guide the students in the conduct of the research work within, and if
so required, outside of the Bicol University.
2. To assist in monitoring the student’s work from the proposal stage to the
data gathering until presentation of the research output.
3. To ensure that the suggestions/ recommendations of the Project Study
Evaluation Panel are judiciously adhered to.
4. To require the advisee to:
a. Submit the initial/final copies of the manuscript one week before
the scheduled defense.
b. Comply with other requirements:
i. Certification from an editor and statistician, if required
by the evaluators.
ii. Submission of all bound copies of revised and final
manuscript two weeks before the final examination and
academic council meeting.
5. To be available during consultation schedule agreed upon,
6. To serve as a recorder during the Research Study Evaluation. .
Please be guided accordingly.
ENGR. AMELIA B. GONZALES

Dean, College of Engineering
Conforme:
ENGR. DARWIN MURILLO, PME

Research Study Adviser
129
Bicol University
Legazpi City, Albay
Bicol University
Dear Ma’am,
You are hereby requested to form the committee to evaluate the project study of
CHRISTIAN E. BONTO, CHRISTINE B. BORLAGDAN, SIMON LATRELL T.
CIMANES, CASTEL V. NOLEAL, CHERRY LOU M. OLAGUERA for their Project
Study entitled “DEVELOPMENT OF TYPHOON RESILIENT AND SELF-
STORING PHOTOTROPIC SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM”.
As project study evaluator, such you are tasked to do the following:
1. Appraise the validity and acceptability of the project study work in terms
of its scholarly quality, corrections of the facts and claims contained
therein, and completeness as to its basic components,
2. Make sure that all suggestions have been incorporated,
3. Evaluate the project study report based on the adopted criteria and
4. Be present during the oral defense.

Conforme:

Research Study Evaluator
130
Bicol University
Legazpi City, Albay
Bicol University
Dear Sir,

Conforme:

131
Bicol University
Legazpi City, Albay
Electrical Engineering Department
Bicol University
Dear Sir,

Conforme:

132
Bicol University
Legazpi City, Albay
MAY 04, 2022
Office of the Dean:
Engr. Joseph Del Villar Chairman

Engr. Francia Abarientos Member
Engr. Natanael Ortiz Member
Dear Engr. Joseph Del Villar

Kindly form the panel to evaluate the project study of CHRISTIAN E. BONTO,
CHRISTINE B. BORLAGDAN, SIMON LATRELL T. CIMANES, CASTEL V.
NOLEAL, and CHERRY LOU M. OLAGUERA entitled “DEVELOPMENT OF
TYPHOON RESILIENT AND SELF-STORING PHOTOTROPIC SOLAR PANEL
SYSTEM”
As thesis evaluators, you must thoroughly assess the research proposal in terms
of the parts/basic components of the thesis and make sure that all suggestions
were judiciously incorporated.
The defense is scheduled on May 07, 2022 through pre-recorded video

presentation of the study.
ENGR. AMELIA B. GONZALES, Ph.D.
133
Bicol University
Legazpi City, Albay
CURRICULUM VITAE
CHRISTIAN E. BONTO
PERSONAL INFORMATION
Address: San Vicente, Tabaco City

E-mail Address: christianesquivel.bonto@bicol-u.edu.ph
Cellphone Number: 09513764498
Civil Status: Single
Nationality: Filipino
Religion: Roman Catholic
Date of Birth: December 23, 1999
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
BICOL UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING

Legazpi City, Albay
2018-2022
TABACO NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) Track
Tabaco City, Albay
2016-2018
134
Bicol University
Legazpi City, Albay
CHRISTINE B. BORLAGDAN
Address: San Isidro Iraya, Malilipot, Albay

E-mail Address: Christinebuling.borlagdan@bicol-u.edu.ph
Date of Birth: March 28, 2000

Legazpi City, Albay
2018-2022
TABACO NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Track
Tabaco City, Albay
2016-2018
135
Bicol University
Legazpi City, Albay
Address: Brgy. 33 Peñaranda St., Legazpi City

E-mail Address: simonlatrelltoledo.cimanes@bicol-u.edu.ph

Legazpi City, Albay
2018-2022
BICOL UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF EDUCATION SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

DEPARTMENT
Legazpi City, Albay
2016-2018
136
Bicol University
Legazpi City, Albay
CASTEL V. NOLEAL
Address: Cabangan, Camalig, Albay

E-mail Address: nolealtohka@gmail.com

Legazpi City, Albay
2018-2022
MARCIAL O. RAÑOLA MEMORIAL SCHOOL

Guinobatan, Albay
2016-2018
137
Bicol University
Legazpi City, Albay
Address: Cabangan, Camalig, Albay

E-mail Address: Cherryloumorota.olaguera@bicol-u.edu.ph
Date of Birth: September 17, 1999

Legazpi City, Albay
2018-2022
BICOL UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF EDUCATION SENIOR HIGHSCHOOL

DEPARTMENT
Legazpi City, Albay
2016-2018
138

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Republic of the Philippines

DEVELOPMENT OF TYPHOON RESILIENT AND SELF-STORING

RECOMMENDATION FOR ORAL EXAMINATION

This Project Study is entitled “DEVELOPMENT OF TYPHOON RESILIENT

AND SELF-STORING PHOTOTROPIC SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM (TRESS-

PSPS)” prepared and submitted by Christian E. Bonto, Christine B. Borlagdan,

fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Mechanical

Engineering is hereby recommended for final oral defense.

Engr. Darwin M. Murillo, PME

Result of Oral Examination of the Project Study of Christian E. Bonto,

Christine B. Borlagdan, Simon Latrell T., Cimanes, Castel V. Noleal and

of Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.

Title : DEVELOPMENT OF TYPHOON RESILIENT AND SELF-

STORING PHOTOTROPIC SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM

Date : May 07, 2022

Place : Bicol University College of Engineering

Mechanical Engineering Department

PANEL OF EXAMINERS ACTION TAKEN

ENGR. JOSEPH DEL VILLAR

ENGR. FRANCIA L. ABARIENTOS

ENGR. NATANAEL ORTIZ

Upon recommendation of the Project Study Committee, this study is entitled

“DEVELOPMENT OF TYPHOON RESILIENT AND SELF-STORING

PHOTOTROPIC SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM (TRESS-PSPS)” prepared and

submitted by Christian E. Bonto, Christine B. Borlagdan, Simon Latrell T.,

Cimanes, Castel V. Noleal and Cherry Lou M. Olaguera, is hereby approved in

partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Science in

ENGR. AGERICO U. LLOVIDO, PME

ENGR. JOSEPH S. DEL VILLAR

ACCEPTED and APPROVED in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the

Degree of Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering.

ENGR. AMELIA B. GONZALES, Ph.D.

to making this study possible.

that have improved this study in innumerable ways.

To Mr. Rene O. Briz, for providing knowledge on fundamentals of Arduino,

programming, and electric circuitry design.

support they have given.

understanding. Their valuable support served as an inspiration and strength for us

to push through and do our best.

knowledge that he has given us.

This is to certify that all the suggestions, comments, and recommendations

of the Adviser and Panel of Examinees had been incorporated in undergraduate

thesis entitled, “DEVELOPMENT OF TYPHOON RESILIENT AND SELF-

STORING PHOTOTROPIC SOLAR PANEL SYSTEM (TRESS-PSPS)” prepared

and submitted by Christian E. Bonto, Christine B. Borlagdan, Simon Latrell T.,

Cimanes, Castel V. Noleal and Cherry Lou M. Olaguera in partial fulfilment of

the requirement for the Degree of Bachelor in Science in Mechanical Engineering.

ENGR. DARWIN M. MURILLO, PME

CERTIFICATION OF THE EDITOR

This is to certify that the undergraduate thesis entitled “DEVELOPMENT

OF TYPHOON RESILIENT AND SELF-STORING PHOTOTROPIC SOLAR

PANEL SYSTEM (TRESS-PSPS)” prepared and submitted by Christian E.

Bonto, Christine B. Borlagdan, Simon Latrell T., Cimanes, Castel V. Noleal

of Bachelor in Science in Mechanical Engineering, was edited by the undersigned.

TITLE PAGE ...................................................................................................................... i

RECOMMENDATION FOR ORAL EXAMINATION ...................................................ii

RESULT OF ORAL EXAMINATION ............................................................................ iii

APPROVAL SHEET ........................................................................................... iv

CERTIFICATION OF THE ADVISER ................................................................. vii

CERTIFICATION OF THE EDITOR .................................................................. viii

TABLE OF CONTENTS ...................................................................................... ix

LIST OF TABLES .............................................................................................. xii

LIST OF FIGURES............................................................................................ xiii