The Mechatronic Model of a Photovoltaic Tracking System

The paper presents a solution for increasing the efficiency of the photovoltaic conversion. The aim is to design the tracking system that adjusts the position of the PV module for maximizing the incident solar radiation. The energetic efficiency is evaluated considering also the energy consumption for orientation. The design of the tracking system is approached as a mechatronic concept, integrating the mechanical model with the electronic control system at the virtual prototype level.