Summary of DIY Miniature Solar Tracker
This article guides readers through building a DIY miniature solar tracker that follows the sun's movement to maximize energy harvest. The project involves ordering specific electronic components, 3D printing custom parts, assembling the circuit, and uploading control code. Finally, it demonstrates the energy efficiency difference between the tracker and a flat-mounted panel.
Parts used in the Solar Tracker:
- Arduino Nano
- SG90 Servo
- Photoresistor
- 1kohm Resistor
- 3D printed parts
In this project I will show you how to create a solar tracker which like the name implies can follow the movement of the sun throughout the day. And at the end I will show you the energy harvest difference between a solar tracker mounted solar panel and a flat mounted solar panel. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Watch the Video!
The video gives you all mandatory information about the solar tracker. During the next steps though I will give you some additional information.
Step 2: Order Your Components!
Here you can find a parts list with example seller (affiliate links):
Aliexpress:
1x Arduino Nano: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_dUVUQIV
2x SG90 Servo: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_dVGfXVr
4x Photoresistor: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_d6Sv4PX
4x 1kohm Resistor: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_dZa9b9X
Ebay:
1x Arduino Nano: http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?…
2x SG90 Servo: http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?…
4x Photoresistor: http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?…
4x 1kohm Resistor: http://rover.ebay.com/rover/1/711-53200-19255-0/1?…
Amazon.de:
1x Arduino Nano: https://amzn.to/2KDRt5r
2x SG90 Servo: https://amzn.to/2lHKJoG
4x Photoresistor: https://amzn.to/2Kz7Gpb
4x 1kohm Resistor: https://amzn.to/2lIp1kD
Step 3: 3D Print the Solar Tracker Parts!
Here you can find the utilized model on thingiverse: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:708819
And here you can also download the remaining part that I created by myself.
Step 4: Create the Circuit and Upload the Code!
Here you can find the schematic and code for the project. Feel free to use it to create your own solar tracker.
Step 5: Success!
You did it! You just created your own Solar Tracker!
Feel free to check out my YouTube channel for more awesome projects:
http://www.youtube.com/user/greatscottlab
You can also follow me on Facebook, Twitter and Google+ for news about upcoming projects and behind the scenes information:
https://www.facebook.com/greatscottlab
Source: DIY Miniature Solar Tracker
- What is the purpose of this project?
The project creates a solar tracker that follows the sun's movement throughout the day. - How can I get all mandatory information about the tracker?
You should watch the video provided in Step 1 for all mandatory details. - Where can I order the components like Arduino Nano and SG90 Servo?
Components are available on Aliexpress, Ebay, and Amazon.de with example seller links. - What do I need to do before creating the circuit?
You must 3D print the solar tracker parts using models from Thingiverse or self-created files. - How do I find the schematic and code for the project?
The schematic and code are available in Step 4 of the article. - Can I see the energy difference between tracker and flat panels?
Yes, the author shows the energy harvest difference at the end of the project. - Where can I find more projects by the creator?
You can check the YouTube channel GreatScottLab or follow them on social media. - Does the article provide affiliate links for purchasing parts?
Yes, the article lists example sellers with affiliate links for buying components.
