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A Solar Ray Tracker

The document outlines the materials and steps needed to build a solar ray tracker that optimizes solar panel positioning for maximum sunlight exposure. It describes how two Light Dependent Resistors (LDRs) detect light direction to control motors that adjust the panel's orientation. The tracker aims to increase solar panel efficiency and energy generation by keeping the panel facing the sun.

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kwattegama
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69 views3 pages

A Solar Ray Tracker

The document outlines the materials and steps needed to build a solar ray tracker that optimizes solar panel positioning for maximum sunlight exposure. It describes how two Light Dependent Resistors (LDRs) detect light direction to control motors that adjust the panel's orientation. The tracker aims to increase solar panel efficiency and energy generation by keeping the panel facing the sun.

Uploaded by

kwattegama
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

A Solar ray tracker

Materials:

 Small solar panel (from a garden light or toy)


 2x Toy DC motors or servo motors (low RPM,
3V–6V)
 2x LDRs (Light Dependent Resistors)
 Resistors (2x 10k ohm)
 Transistors (e.g. 2x NPN type like BC547)
 Diodes (e.g. 1N4007, optional for protection)
 Small H-Bridge module (optional for better motor control)
 Cardboard or wood for the base
 Small plastic gears or a rotating mount
 Wires, glue gun, soldering iron , tape

⚙️How It Works (Simple Explanation):


 Two LDRs detect which direction the light is strongest.
 If the right LDR gets more light, the motor turns right.
 If the left LDR gets more light, it turns left.
 This keeps the solar panel always facing the Sun = more power!

Steps to Build It:


1. Create the Base:
 Use cardboard or wood to create a stand.
 Mount the solar panel on top so it can tilt or rotate.
2. Mount the Motors:
 Use one motor for horizontal movement (left-right).
 Optional: a second for vertical movement (up-down).
3. Set Up the LDRs:
 Place 2 LDRs on either side of a small divider (like a piece of
cardboard or straw) so they face slightly away from each other.
This way, they’ll detect light difference.
4. Connect the Circuit:
Basic LDR-Controlled Motor Circuit:
 Connect each LDR in a voltage divider with a 10k resistor.
 Feed each LDR-resistor combo to the base of a transistor.
 Use the transistors to switch the motor on/off depending on which
side gets more light.
 Add diodes for protection from back current.

5. Attach the Panel to the Motor:


 Use a lightweight frame.
 Attach the panel securely so it turns when the motor spins.
6. Power Up:
 Use a 3V–6V battery pack.
 When sunlight hits one LDR more than the other, it activates the
motor to rotate the panel toward the light.
DIAGRAM

USES OF SOLAR TRACKER


1. Optimize solar panel position for maximum
sunlight exposure.
2. Increase solar panel efficiency and boost energy
generation

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