Prototype of photovoltaic system with dual axis tracker and flat mirror concentrators

Use of a solar tracker and concentrator of solar radiation flow is distinguished among the most efficient ways to improve electric efficiency of a photovoltaic system. The aim of the research is to detect the effect of each of the ways to improve efficiency of photovoltaic system by comparing installations of different structure (stationary oriented panel, a panel with two-axis tracker and a panel with two-axis tracker and flat mirror concentrator). Basing on the carried analysis of the existing constructions of solar tracking systems, the research substantiates structure of the studied prototype, which moves around the polar axis in a day cycle of tracking, and makes a change of the zenith in a seasonal cycle of the system operation. To secure the function of solar tracking by a photovoltaic panel the research has developed a construction, an algorithm and a program of intellectual microprocessing control system, which supplies tracking of azimuth and zenith angles and protection of the tracker from destruction in case of stormy winds. To argue size dimensions and profile of the principal elements of the tracker construction, the researchers have developed a virtual 3D model and proposed a kinematic-constructive scheme of a rotation gear drive. The work proposes methods of automation of a comparative examination of photovoltaic systems with different structural scheme, which are based on the hardware platform Arduino and software LabVIEW of the company National Instruments.