Page 123 - eBook_Proceedings of the International Conference on Digital Manufacturing V2

Fabrication and Characterization of a Low-Cost Piezoelectric using Rochelle
Salt for Energy Harvesting and Sensor Applications

Tracking Mechanism

The system employs a single axis tracking mechanism that utilises
Light Dependent Resistors (LDRs) as sensing components to
provide positional feedback to the microcontroller for solar
tracking operations. The LDRs determine the sun's position by
analysing and comparing light intensity measurements from
different directional sources. Two LDRs are mounted at the top of
the structure on a partitioned plastic plate, with the central divider
designed to maintain equal light intensity on one LDR under
optimal conditions. As the sun moves across the sky, the relative
light intensity between the two LDRs changes, creating an
imbalance that triggers the tracking system.

The microcontroller responds to this intensity differential by
activating the motor system, which rotates the solar panels until
both LDRs register equal light levels. This process ensures that
the panel surfaces remain perpendicular to the most concentrated
solar radiation, maximising energy capture efficiency. The
tracking operation continues autonomously throughout daylight
hours, constantly adjusting the panel orientation to maintain
optimal sun exposure. The system ceases operation when ambient
light levels drop below the detection threshold, indicating sunset
or insufficient lighting conditions.

Microcontroller Combination

The system's operational intelligence is centred on an Arduino
Nano microcontroller, which serves as the primary control unit.
This microcontroller operates using a carefully programmed
algorithm that processes and interprets incoming data from the
LDR sensors. The controller manages the actuation of a linear
servo motor that is mechanically connected to the panel assembly,
enabling precise directional movement toward the sun's position.
Through continuous sensor data analysis, the microcontroller
determines the optimal panel orientation and commands the servo
to adjust the panel cluster accordingly. This integrated control
system ensures accurate and responsive solar tracking by

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