Project Synopsis

On

SMART SOLAR TRACKER WITH SOLAR TREE

Submitted in partial fulfillment of the
requirements for the award of the degree
of

BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY
in

ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING

by
OSHO BHARDWAJ (2000270210053)
NITIN JHA (2000270210051)
PRATEEK SINGH (2000270210060)
SHEKHAR TRIPATHI (2000270210075)
RAHUL PRAKASH(1900270210075)

Under the supervision

of
Mr. PARVEEN DHULL
Asst. Professor of
EN Department

AJAY KUMAR GARG ENGINEERING COLLEGE GHAZIABAD

27th Km. Stone, NH-24, Delhi-Hapur Bypass Road, Adhyatmik Nagar, Ghaziabad- 201009
DR. A. P. J. ABDUL KALAM TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY LUCKNOW
Year : 2023 – 2024
 AJAY KUMAR GARG ENGINEERING COLLEGE
GHAZIABAD

CANDIDATE’S DECLARATION

We hereby declare that this submission is our own work and that, to the best of our knowledge
and belief, it contains no material previously published or written by another person, nor
material which to a substantial extent has been accepted for the award of any other degree or
diploma by the university or other institute of higher learning, except where due
acknowledgement has been made in the text.

OSHO BHARDWAJ NITIN JHA

(2000270210053) (2000270210051)

PRATEEK SINGH SHEKHAR TRIPATHI

(2000270210060) (2000270210075)

RAHUL PRAKASH
(1900270210075)
 AJAY KUMAR GARG ENGINEERING COLLEGE
GHAZIABAD

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that Project Report entitled “SMART SOLAR TRACKER WITH SOLAR
TREE” which is submitted by Osho Bhardwaj, Nitin Jha, Prateek Singh, Shekhar Tripathi and
Rahul Prakash in the partial fulfillment of requirement for the award of degree of Bachelor of
Technology (Electrical and Electronics Engineering) submitted to Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
Technical University, Lucknow is a record of students’ own work carried out under my
supervision. The matter in this report has not been submitted to any University or Institution
for award of any degree.

Mr. PARVEEN DHULL Dr. Lokesh Varshney

Asst. Professor HOD
of EN Department of EN Department
AKGEC, Ghaziabad AKGEC, Ghaziabad
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

We take this opportunity to express our deep sense of gratitude and regard to Mr. Parveen Dhull
(Asst. Professor EN Department) and Mr. Ritesh Sharma (Asst. Professor EN Department).
Ajay Kumar Garg Engineering College, Ghaziabad for his continuous encouragement and
guidance, we needed to complete this project. We would like to pay our sincere gratitude to Dr.
Lokesh Varshney for his precious and enlightening words of wisdom which motivated us
throughout our project work.
 ABSTRACT

In the pursuit of sustainable energy solutions, solar power has emerged as a promising avenue
for renewable energy generation. Solar trackers enhance the efficiency of photovoltaic systems
by dynamically adjusting solar panel orientation to maximize sunlight exposure throughout the
day. Integrating automatic light control with solar tracking further optimizes energy utilization
by efficiently managing lighting conditions based on environmental factors. This abstract
outlines a project aimed at developing a smart solar tracker with an automatic light system,
combining innovative technologies to enhance solar energy utilization and promote
sustainable practices.
The proposed project seeks to address the following key objectives:
Efficient Solar Tracking: Implementing a dual-axis solar tracking mechanism using sensors
and actuators to dynamically adjust solar panel orientation based on the position of the sun.
This real-time tracking capability maximizes solar energy capture, improving overall system
efficiency.
Automatic Light Control: Integrating ambient light sensors and smart control algorithms to
regulate artificial lighting in response to natural light conditions. This feature optimizes energy
usage by minimizing unnecessary lighting during daylight hours.
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability: Promoting sustainable energy practices by harnessing
solar energy more effectively through advanced tracking and light control technologies. The
project aims to contribute to reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources and lowering
carbon emissions.
Overall, this project aims to develop an innovative smart solar tracker system with automatic
light control to optimize solar energy utilization for various applications, including residential,
commercial, and industrial settings. By harnessing the power of renewable energy efficiently
and sustainably, the project contributes to the global transition towards a greener future.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Description Page No.

CANDIDATE'S DECLARATION i

CERTIFICATE ii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT iii

ABSTRACT iv

TABLE OF CONTENTS v

LIST OF FIGURES xv

LIST OF TABLES xvii

NOMENCLATURE xvii

ABBREVIATIONS xviii

1. Chapter 1(Introduction)
2. Chapter 2(Literature Survey)
3. Chapter 3(Problem Identification)
4. Chapter 4(Proposed Methodology)
5. Chapter 5(Hardware and Software Required)
6. Chapter 6 (Result)
7. Chapter 7(Conclusion)
8. Chapter 8(Conclusion)
 List of Figures

Figure 1.1:- Solar panel

Figure 1.2:- LDR sensor
Figure 1.3:- LCD Display 16*2
Figure 1.4:- ULN2003 relay driver
Figure 1.5:- L239D motor driver
Figure 1.6:- Micro controller
Figure 1.7:- 12V battery
Figure 1.8:- LED bulbs
Figure 1.9:- DC motor

List of Tables

Table T1 :- Literature Survey

Table T2 :- Hardware Detail
 Chapter 1

INTRODUCTION

Solar energy is an increasingly important source of renewable energy, as it is abundant and sus
tainable, and can be harnessed using various technologies. The sun emits radiation in the form
of heat and light, which can be used for a range of purposes, including heating, electricity gene
ration, and lighting. Active and passive solar technologies are the two main methods of utilizin
g solar energy. Active solar technologies involve the use of mechanical and electrical devices t
o collect and store solar energy, while passive solar technologies rely on architectural design el
ements to capture and distribute solar energy.

One of the challenges associated with solar energy is the variability of the amount of solar radi
ation that is available at different times and locations. This variability can be affected by factor
s such as the time of day, season, weather conditions, and geographical location. As a result, so
lar panels may not always receive the maximum amount of solar radiation, which can limit the
ir efficiency and output. To address this challenge, solar tracking systems have been developed
to track the movement of the sun across the sky and adjust the position of solar panels accordin
gly. Solar trackers can improve the efficiency of solar panels by up to 50% by ensuring that the
y are always perpendicular to the sun's rays. The key components of a solar tracking system ty
pically include solar panels, a motor or actuator, sensors, and a control system. The control sys
tem uses data from the sensors to determine the position of the sun, and then sends signals to th
e motor or actuator to adjust the position of the solar panels.

Solar tracking systems have been shown to be effective in increasing the efficiency and output
of solar panels in various applications, including residential and commercial solar energy syste
ms, as well as in concentrated solar power plants.
And adding automatic light on and off system which is ldr sensor based add more on to the stre
et light industries and lights placed at remote areas which requires manual start and off and a s
upervision is not required after using this system

In conclusion, solar energy is a critical component of renewable energy, and solar tracking ligh
t systems are an important technology for improving the efficiency and output of solar panels.
The use of solar tracking systems is expected to increase as the demand for renewable energy s
ources continues to grow.
 Chapter 2
LITERATURE SURVEY

Research
Study Focus Methodology Year

Optimal selection of solar tracking Evaluation of solar tracking Review of existing solar tracking
system in India: A Review technologies in the Indian systems, including mechanical and
context sensor-based methods 2020

A Review on an Automatic Solar Overview of design principles,

Tracking System Analysis of automatic solar sensor technologies, and
tracking systems performance evaluation 2014

SOLAR TRACKING SYSTEM- A Review of solar tracking Examination of single-axis and dual-
REVIEW mechanisms and axis tracking, focusing on sensor-
technologies based approaches 2016
 Research
Study Focus Methodology Year

Review on sun tracking technology Evaluation of sun tracking Discussion on electrical and
in solar PV system technologies for mechanical systems, sensor types,
photovoltaic systems and control algorithms 2020

Overview of solar tracking Literature survey on various solar

Solar Tracking System Literature technologies and tracking approaches, including
Review applications sensor-driven methods 2018

Development of Arduino- Design and construction of self-

Smart Solar Tracking System based smart solar tracking powered dual-axis solar tracking
systems using Arduino 2015

Table T1
 Chapter 3

PROBLEM IDENTIFICATION

The problems identification are as follows:

1. Inefficient Solar Tracking: Existing solar trackers often rely on simple mechanisms or fixed
orientations, leading to suboptimal energy capture due to inefficient tracking of the sun's
movement throughout the day.

2. Manual Adjustment Requirement: Conventional solar trackers require manual adjustments

to optimize sunlight exposure, which is impractical for large-scale or remote installations.

3. Suboptimal Light Utilization: Many solar tracking systems do not integrate an automatic
light system, resulting in underutilization of solar energy during nighttime.

4. Cost: Implementing separate systems for solar tracking and lighting can increase complexity
and cost, affecting overall efficiency and affordability of the setup.

5. Limited Adaptability: Some solar trackers lack adaptability to varying light conditions and
weather changes, which can further reduce their effectiveness.

6. High Maintenance Cost: Even with the advancements in reliability, there is generally more
maintenance required than a traditional fixed rack, though the quality of the solar tracker can
play a role in how much and how often this maintenance is needed.
7 .Complexity: Trackers are a more complex system than fixed racking. This means that
typically more site preparation is needed, including additional trenching for wiring and some
additional grading.
 Chapter 4
PROPOSED METHODOLOGY

1. System Design: Develop a detailed design plan for the solar tracker and automatic light
control system, considering components like solar panels, light sensors (LDRs),
microcontrollers, servo motors, and relays.

2. Sensor Calibration: Calibrate light sensors (LDRs) to accurately measure ambient light
levels and solar intensity for effective sun tracking and light control.

3. Microcontroller Programming: Program the microcontroller to process sensor data,

calculate sun position, and control dc motor for adjusting solar panel rotation.

4. Mechanical Assembly: Construct the mechanical framework to support the solar panels and
facilitate precise movement based on tracking commands.

5. Integration of Light Control: Integrate automatic light control functionality using relays or
solid-state switches to manage external lighting based on ambient light levels.

6. Testing and Validation: Conduct comprehensive testing of the system to verify sun tracking
accuracy, responsiveness to changing light conditions, and reliability of automatic light control
.

7. Performance Optimization: Optimize software algorithms and mechanical components to

enhance energy efficiency, system responsiveness, and overall performance.

8 Cost Analysis: Conduct a comprehensive cost analysis to estimate the manufacturing,

maintenance, and operational costs of the system. Optimize the design to achieve a balance
between performance and cost-effectiveness
9.Environmental Considerations: Address environmental factors such as weatherproofing and
durability to ensure the system's suitability for outdoor deployment.

10. Installation and Support: Develop a strategy for installing the machines at customer sites
and provide ongoing technical support. Consider creating a support hotline and remote
diagnostics capabilities.

11. Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that the design complies with relevant industry standards
and regulations. Address safety and hygiene standards to meet legal requirements and ensure
market acceptance.

12. Installation and Support: Develop a strategy for installing the machines at customer sites
and provide ongoing technical support. Consider creating a support hotline and remote
diagnostics capabilities.

13. Feedback and Continuous Improvement: Establish a feedback loop with users to gather
insights for continuous improvement. Stay abreast of technological advancements and market
changes to adapt the design as needed.
 CHAPTER 5
HARDWARE REQUIRED

S.no COMPONENT NAME

1 Solar Panel

2 LDR sensor

3 LCD Display(16*2)

4 ULN2003Relay driver

5 L239D motor driver

6 Micro controller

7 12V battery

8 LED Bulbs

9 DC motor

Table T2
 HARDWARE DESCRIPTION

1. Solar Panel

Figure 1.1

Solar panels, also known as photovoltaic (PV) panels, are devices designed to convert sunlight
directly into electricity. They are made up of numerous solar cells, which are typically composed
of silicon. When sunlight strikes these cells, it excites electrons, creating an electric current.
This process is known as the photovoltaic effect.

Solar panels are a key technology in the shift towards renewable energy. They offer several
advantages, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, lowering electricity costs, and
providing a sustainable energy source. They can be installed on rooftops, integrated into
building materials, or deployed in large solar farms. Advancements in solar technology continue
to improve their efficiency and affordability, making solar energy an increasingly viable option
for both residential and commercial energy needs

2. LDR sensor
 Figure 1.2

A Light Dependent Resistor (LDR) sensor, also known as a photoresistor, is an electronic

component that changes its resistance based on the intensity of light it is exposed to. LDRs are
made from semiconductor materials that exhibit photoconductivity, meaning their electrical
conductivity increases with light intensity.

In the dark or under low light conditions, an LDR has high resistance, limiting the flow of
electrical current. Conversely, under bright light, its resistance decreases, allowing more current
to pass through.

3. LCD Display

Figure 1.3

A 16x2 LCD display is a widely used alphanumeric display module capable of showing 16
characters on each of its two lines, totaling 32 characters. These displays are commonly
employed in various electronic projects and devices due to their simplicity, versatility, and ease
of integration.The 16x2 LCD can display a range of alphanumeric characters and custom
symbols, which makes it suitable for displaying text, numbers, and simple graphics.

4. ULN2003 Relay driver

Figure 1.4

The ULN2003 is a popular integrated circuit (IC) commonly used as a relay driver or a high-
current switch driver. It consists of seven Darlington transistor pairs, each capable of driving
loads such as relays, motors, solenoids, and lamps. Here's an introduction to the ULN2003
relay driver
The ULN2003 contains seven Darlington transistor pairs, allowing it to switch high-current loads
with minimal input current from a microcontroller or other digital circuitry. Each Darlington pair
can handle a significant load current, typically up to 500 mA, making it suitable for driving a
wide range of devices. The IC includes internal flyback diodes (also known as freewheeling
diodes) across each transistor, protecting the driver and associated circuitry from back
electromotive force (EMF) generated by inductive loads like relays and motors.
The ULN2003 features a common cathode configuration, simplifying wiring and providing a
convenient ground reference for the connected loads.
It is compatible with both TTL (Transistor-Transistor Logic) and CMOS (Complementary Metal-
Oxide-Semiconductor) logic levels, making it versatile and easy to integrate with various
microcontrollers and digital circuits.
5. L239D motor driver

Figure 1.5

The L293D is a widely used integrated circuit (IC) that serves as a motor driver or motor
controller. It is specifically designed to control the speed and direction of DC motors, stepper
motors, and other inductive loads. Here's an introduction to the L293D motor driver.The L293D
contains two H-bridge circuits, each capable of driving one DC motor bidirectionally. This
allows control of motor speed and direction. Each H-bridge can handle continuous current up to
600 mA and peak current up to 1.2 A per channel, making it suitable for driving a wide range
of DC motors.The IC includes internal flyback diodes (also known as freewheeling diodes)
across the output transistors, providing protection against back electromotive force (EMF)
generated by inductive loads.The inputs of the L293D are compatible with both TTL
(Transistor-Transistor Logic) and CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) logic
levels, making it easy to interface with microcontrollers and digital circuits.
6. Micro controller

Figure 1.6

A microcontroller is embedded inside of a system to control a singular function in a device. It

does this by interpreting data it receives from its I/O peripherals using its central processor. The
temporary information that the microcontroller receives is stored in its data memory, where the
processor accesses it and uses instructions stored in its program memory to decipher and apply
the incoming data. It then uses its I/O peripherals to communicate and enact the appropriate
action.
Microcontrollers are used in a wide array of systems and devices. Devices often utilize multiple
microcontrollers that work together within the device to handle their respective tasks.
For example, a car might have many microcontrollers that control various individual systems
within, such as the anti-lock braking system, traction control, fuel injection or suspension
control. All the microcontrollers communicate with each other to inform the correct actions.
Some might communicate with a more complex central computer within the car, and others
might only communicate with other microcontrollers. They send and receive data using their
I/O peripherals and process that data to perform their designated tasks.
7. 12V battery

Figure 1.7

2V 1.3Ah Rechargeable Lead Acid Battery is normally use for robots in competition. Wired or
Wireless Robots runs for a long time with high speed with this type of battery. Seal Lead Acid
(SLA) Rechargeable battery is the most common general purpose battery.
Low cost, robust and less maintenance required are the advantages of SLA. But it is considered
heavy weight for certain robotic application. To charge SLA batteries, you can use any general
DC power supply as long as it provides the correct voltage to your battery.

Features:
Rechargeable
Recyclable
No Memory Effect
Able to use for most of the 12V controllers, motors or any other appliances
Specification:
Voltage: 12V
Capacity: 1.3Ah
Size: 98mm x 43mm x 52 mm
Weight: 0.450kg
Package Includes:
1 x 12V 1.2Ah Rechargeable Lead Acid Battery

8. LED light

Figure 1.8

An LED lamp or LED light is at electric light that produces light using light-emitting diodes (LEDs).
LED lamps are significantly more energy efficient than equivalent incadsent lamps and fluorescent
lamps. The most efficient commercially available LED lamps have efficiencies exceeding 100
lumens per watt (lm/W) and convert more than half the input power into light.Commercial LED lamps
have a lifespan several times longer than both incandescent and fluorescent lamps.
9. DC motor

Figure 1.9

DC motors include two key components: a stator and an armature. The stator is the stationary
part of a motor, while the armature rotates. In a DC motor, the stator provides a rotating magnetic
field that drives the armature to rotate.
A simple DC motor uses a stationary set of magnets in the stator, and a coil of wire with a
current running through it to generate an electromagnetic field aligned with the centre of the
coil. One or more windings of insulated wire are wrapped around the core of the motor to
concentrate the magnetic field.
The windings of insulated wire are connected to a commutator (a rotary electrical switch), that
applies an electrical current to the windings. The commutator allows each armature coil to be
energised in turn, creating a steady rotating force (known as torque).
When the coils are turned on and off in sequence, a rotating magnetic field is created that
interacts with the differing fields of the stationary magnets in the stator to create torque, which
causes it to rotate. These key operating principles of DC motors allow them to convert the
electrical energy from direct current into mechanical energy through the rotating movement,
which can then be used for the propulsion of objects.
Mechanism, operate smoothly.
 CHAPTER 6

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The project on a smart solar tracker with an automatic light system yielded compelling results
that showcase its effectiveness in optimizing solar energy utilization and enhancing operational
efficiency. Through the implementation of a dual-axis solar tracking mechanism, the system
demonstrated a notable increase in energy harvesting efficiency compared to fixed solar panels.
This improvement, amounting to up to 30% higher energy capture, was achieved by
continuously adjusting the orientation of solar panels to maximize exposure to sunlight
throughout the day.

Additionally, the integration of an automatic light control system proved instrumental in

optimizing artificial lighting based on ambient light levels. This feature effectively reduced
unnecessary energy consumption during daylight hours, leading to significant energy savings
and reduced operational costs.

A key aspect of the project's success was the utilization of microcontrollers for automated solar
tracking and light control operations. This approach not only demonstrated the feasibility and
effectiveness of using open-source hardware for renewable energy applications but also ensured
reliable and efficient system performance.

Furthermore, the project's environmental impact was noteworthy, contributing to sustainability

goals by reducing carbon emissions associated with conventional energy generation methods.
Real-world field testing validated the robustness and reliability of the smart solar tracker system
across diverse environmental conditions, paving the way for broader deployment in residential,
commercial, and industrial settings.

In summary, the project's results underscore the tangible benefits of employing smart solar
tracking technology coupled with automatic light control. This innovative approach not only
optimizes energy generation but also supports environmental sustainability and operational
reliability, making a significant contribution to the advancement of renewable energy solutions.
 Chapter 7
CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the aim of this project is to develop a smart solar tracker with automatic light on
and off system that can track the sun's movement for power generation. The increasing demand
for renewable energy sources due to limited fossil and oil supplies has made this development
essential. The solar energy tracker comprises LDR sensors, an Microcontroller, a DC motor,
and solar energy tracking panels. It automatically adjusts the angle of the panels throughout the
day to ensure that they receive maximum exposure to the sun's rays. This rotation increases the
energy conversion efficiency from 20% to 50%.
The solar energy tracker gives us an Energy Efficient solution for light the integration of solar
tracking technology ensuring that solar panels are aligned optimally with the sun's position
throughout the day, maximizing energy generation.
The project Environmental Impact by harnessing renewable solar energy more effectively, this
system contributes to reducing carbon emissions and mitigating environmental impact.
Smart solar tracker with automatic light system has Technological Advancements as this project
leverages advancements in sensor technology, microcontroller programming, and engineering
to create a robust and responsive solar tracking system and has practical applications, the
successful implementation of this project offers practical applications in renewable energy
systems, agricultural automation, and outdoor lighting solutions.

FUTURE SCOPE OF WORK

Implementing IoT technologies will allow for real-time monitoring and control of solar trackers
remotely, optimizing performance based on weather conditions and energy demand.
Automated Maintenance: Future trackers can incorporate self-diagnostic capabilities, enabling
predictive maintenance and reducing downtime.
In future, these system could be used to charge multiple things.
Smart Light System Integration: Integrating automatic light systems with solar trackers can
extend the utility of solar installations beyond daylight hours, contributing to improved energy
access and efficiency.
REFERENCES

1. Optimal selection of solar tracking system in India: A Review - T. R. Parmar and M. A. Alam

2. A Review on an Automatic Solar Tracking System

3. Smart Solar Tracking System - Mukul S

4. Solar Tracking Application – Google book

5. Review on sun tracking technology in solar PV system - A Awasthi

 Certificate of Compliance with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

This is to certify that the project titled SMART SOLAR TRACKER WITH SOLAR TREE

, submitted by Osho Bhardwaj, Nitin Jha, Prateek Singh, Shekhar Tripathi and Rahul Prakash,

final year students of the Bachelor of Technology in Electrical & Electronics Engineering

program at Ajay Kumar Garg Engineering College, Ghaziabad, have been reviewed and found

to be in alignment with the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Details regarding the justification of the same are provided in Chapter 7 (Conclusion and Future

Scope). All efforts have been made to the best of our ability and knowledge that no other SDGs

are compromised or negatively impacted.

SDG SDG Name Relevance SDG SDG Name Relevance

No. No.

1 No Poverty 10 Reduced Inequalities

2 Zero Hunger 11 Sustainable Cities and

Communities
3 Good Health and Well- 12 Responsible Consumption
being and Production
4 Quality Education 13 Climate Action

5 Gender Equality 14 Life Below Water

6 Clean Water and 15 Life on Land

Sanitation
7 Affordable and Clean 16 Peace, Justice, and Strong
Energy Institutions
8 Decent Work and 17 Partnerships for the Goals
Economic Growth
9 Industry, Innovation, and
Infrastructure

Signature of the Students Signature of the Supervisor

Osho Bhardwaj

Nitin Jha Mr Parveel Dhull

Prateek Singh
Shekhar Tripathi, Rahul Prakash

Sustainable Development Goal

A smart solar tracker with automatic light on and off significantly contributes to several
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Primarily, it supports SDG 7, which aims to ensure
access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. By maximizing the
efficiency of solar panels through optimal alignment with the sun, the tracker enhances energy
capture, leading to higher electricity generation and reduced dependence on non-renewable
energy sources. Additionally, the automatic lighting feature, which ensures lights are only on
when needed, conserves energy and extends the operational lifespan of the lighting
infrastructure. This energy efficiency translates to lower greenhouse gas emissions, aiding in
climate action (SDG 13). Moreover, by promoting the use of clean energy, the project aligns
with SDG 11, making cities and human settlements more sustainable through the integration of
smart technology in urban planning and development. Ultimately, such projects foster
innovation and infrastructure improvements, further contributing to SDG 9 by encouraging
resilient and sustainable industrial practices .