Page 115 - eBook_Proceedings of the International Conference on Digital Manufacturing V2

A SMART FLOWER PHOTOVOLTAIC
SYSTEM USING ARDUINO-BASED

SUN TRACKING FOR IMPROVED
SOLAR EFFICIENCY IN KHUZDAR

Imran Ali (Yuan Ze University)*, Salman Masroor (Balochistan
University of Engineering and Technology, Khuzdar), Abdullah
Mengal (Balochistan University of Engineering and Technology,
Khuzdar), Amir khan (Balochistan University of Engineering and
Technology, Khuzdar)

ABSTRACT

Pakistan faces severe energy shortages due to rising fuel costs and
distribution losses, negatively impacting the national economy.
However, the country possesses substantial renewable energy
potential, particularly solar energy. As electricity costs increase,
more citizens are turning to solar photovoltaic (PV) systems for
meeting their energy needs. The Smart Flower PV system
represents an advancement in solar technology through its
compact, aesthetically pleasing design. Unlike conventional static
solar panels that capture limited energy at specific angles, this
system features foldable solar panels mounted on a rotating base
with sun-tracking capabilities. The panels are attached using
Teflon grippers and can rotate 360° to follow the sun's path
throughout the day. The tracking mechanism employs two Light
Dependent Resistors (LDRs), controlled by an Arduino Nano to
detect optimal solar radiation angles. The system includes safety
features such as automatic closure when no light is detected for
five minutes at sunset, and an anemometer that folds the panels
during strong gusts to protect the mechanism. This smart tracking
capability increases power efficiency by approximately 18%
compared to traditional fixed solar panels.

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