Page 122 - eBook_Proceedings of the International Conference on Digital Manufacturing V2

Proceedings of the International Conference on Digital Manufacturing –
Volume 2

(a) (b)

Figure 44: Smart flower PV system, (a) In closed state (b) In
open state.

Bio Mimicking Structure

The developed prototype draws its inspiration from the natural
heliotropic behaviour of sunflowers, which instinctively follow
the sun's path throughout the day. The solar system mimics this
biological phenomenon by arranging photovoltaic panels in a
sunflower-like configuration around the central axis. This radial
arrangement offers several key benefits: it maximises power
generation while minimising the required installation footprint,
creating a space-efficient energy solution. Additionally, the
biomimetic design provides visual appeal, making it an
aesthetically pleasing addition to any environment. The prototype
was developed at a micro scale with specific dimensional
parameters. When fully deployed with petals extended, the system
reaches a height of 18 inches, with a compact square base
measuring 14 inches by 14 inches. This compact form factor
demonstrates the potential for efficient solar energy collection in
space-constrained applications while maintaining an attractive,
nature-inspired appearance.

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