Solar Tracking Parallel Linkage Applicable for All Latitudes

In the paper a new concept of a pseudo-equatorial type 2DOF solar tracking mechanism is described. The mechanism is of parallel linkage type based on two kinematic constraints revolute-sphere (RS) which determine an 1 DOF planar loop RSSR with a passive rotation of the coupler. Two translational actuators directly linked to the frame are used to drive independently the planar loop motion and, respectively, the coupler passive rotation. By their independent motions, the elevation and diurnal angles of the solar active surface fixed on the coupler are independently modified. Tracking performances during the year and on different latitudes are analysed in the paper. In any case the daily tracking efficiency in receiving the direct solar irradiance is higher than 93%.