Performance evaluation of a multi-degree of freedom hybrid controlled dual axis solar tracking system. (August 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Safan, Yasser M.; Shaaban, S.; Abu El-Sebah, Mohamed I.
• Is Part Of: Solar energy. Volume 170(2018)
• Page Start: 576
• Page End: 585
• Publication Date: 2018-08
• Subjects: Photovoltaic System -- Solar tracking -- Hybrid control -- MDOF SUI PID controller -- Performance ratio; Solar energy -- Periodicals; Solar engines -- Periodicals; 621.47
• DOI: 10.1016/j.solener.2018.06.011
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0038-092X

Abstract

Highlights: A simplified universal intelligent (SUI) controller was utilized for the hybrid control of a solar tracking system. Open-loop and closed-loop signals are simultaneously used for control via a multi degree of freedom controller. Good tracking accuracy was achieved even under cloudy weather conditions. The proposed controller show higher tracking accuracy and performance ratio compared to some commercially available trackers. Abstract: Solar energy represents a clean and sustainable energy resource for many countries around the world. A solar tracking system (STS) can significantly improve the collection of solar energy by reducing the solar incidence angle. The present research presents the design, modeling, and simulation of a two-axis STS with a hybrid controlled tracking system. The present hybrid control system implements a Multi-Degree of Freedom Simplified Universal Intelligent Proportional Integral Differential controller (MDOF SUI PID). The MDOF controller integrates an open-loop astronomical algorithm and a closed-loop strategy based on a simplified and intelligent controller. The impact of the hybrid control strategy using the MDOF SUI PID controller on the sun tracking system accuracy was evaluated in the present work. Modeling and simulation of the proposed control strategy were performed using the MATLAB/Simulink package. The results show a sun tracking pointing error of ±0.18° and a typical tracking accuracy of ±0.12°. The present hybrid STS provides a uniform Performance ratio of about 97% for a 60 W PV panel from sunrise to sunset.