MECHANICAL SOLAR
TRACKING
BY
PRIYADHARSHAN
TAMIZHARASAN
SHAKTHI
INTRODUCTION
PROBLEM STATEMENT :Sun tracking
solar panel without electrical device.
SOLUTION : Tracking the sun by the spring
and counterweight mechanism.
OBJECTIVE
Design of sun tracking system that does not
require electrical power.
Use simple materials (Spring &
Counterweight) to create a cost-effective
solution.
Ensure High durability and Low
maintenance.
SYSTEM OVERVIEW
WORKING PRINCIPLE :
The system adjust based on the movement of the sun ,
using the spring tension and counterweight balance
to rotate the panel
COMPONENTS :
Frame
Rotating axis
Solar panel
Spring
Counterweight
WORKING
Use a spring and counterweight system to follow the
sun’s movement from east to west.
The spring expands as the sun rises , tilting the solar
panel gradually toward the west.
The counterweight balances the panel movement ,
ensuring smooth , controlled rotation.
At sunset , the spring is fully expanded and the panel
faces west.
Overnight the spring contacts returning the panel to its
original position for the next day.
COMPARISON
Aspects Electrical solar tracking Mechanical solar tracking
Energy Require power source for No power require for tracking and
sources sensors and motor movement
Cost Higher initial cost Low initial cost
Maintenance High maintenance Low maintenance
Efficiency of Precise tracking Lesser precise than electrical solar
tracking tracking
Off-grid Not suitable for off grid suitable for off-grid
Complexity Require complex design Simple design
Reset Require additional programming Automatically reset when during
mechanism or energy for nighttime reset the overnight ,because of
temperature
ADVANTAGES
No electrical energy require for the tacking
and movement.
Low maintenance.
Low operating cost.
Simple design.
DISADVANTAGES
Low tracking efficiency.
Dependent on temperature.
Less precision.
Require proper initial calibration.
Can’t adjust for seasonal climate condition.
APPLICATION
Agriculture
Disaster relief and Emergency power
Rural and remote areas
Residential solar systems
Solar forms
CONCLUSION
Cost effective : With it’s simple mechanical design , it
eliminates the need of expensive electrical devices.
Low maintenance : This system is highly durable and
requires minimal upkeep , with fewer moving parts no
reliance on electrical devices , it reduce the long-term
maintenance costs.
Versatile application :It suitable for a wide range of uses ,
including residential ,rural electrification projects and
agriculture
No electricity required : The spring and counterweight
system operates without electricity , making it ideal for off-
grid areas and remote locations where power is unavailable
or unreliable.
