Modern solar tracking systems must maintain positioning accuracy within 0.1 degrees while handling wind loads up to 90 mph and operating reliably across temperature ranges from -40°C to 85°C. These precision requirements must be achieved while moving arrays that can exceed 2000 square feet in size using actuators that draw minimal power from the system's output.

The fundamental challenge lies in balancing precise motion control and structural rigidity against system complexity, power consumption, and long-term maintenance requirements.

This page brings together solutions from recent research—including integrated single-drive systems with embedded encoders, mass-based positioning mechanisms, and three-legged actuation architectures with linear drives. These and other approaches focus on achieving high tracking accuracy while minimizing mechanical complexity and maintenance needs in field deployments.

1. Compact Solar Tracking System with Actuator-Based Mechanical Alignment in Cylindrical Enclosure

MERLAKU KASTRIOT, 2023

A compact solar tracking system that optimizes solar panel orientation for maximum energy conversion while minimizing size and cost. The system employs a unique mechanical alignment mechanism using actuators instead of traditional mechanical gearing, allowing solar panels to maintain precise perpendicular alignment with the sun throughout the day. The system's compact design features a cylindrical enclosure with integrated actuators that control panel tilt, eliminating the need for complex tracking mechanisms. This approach enables efficient energy production while maintaining optimal panel orientation.

2. Solar Tracker with Central Beam and Integrated Linear Actuator Cable System for Combined Azimuth and Zenith Rotation

ШАХОВ МИХАЙЛО МИКОЛАЙОВИЧ, SHAKHOV MYKHAYLO MYKOLAYOVYCH, 2023

Solar tracker system with integrated support and orientation mechanism that enables precise control of solar panel orientation through a single, compact design. The system employs a central beam with integrated linear actuators for both azimuth and zenith rotation, featuring a unique configuration where the rotation axes are connected through a single cable system. This eliminates the need for separate azimuth and zenith drives, reducing complexity and weight while maintaining reliability and performance. The system's central beam design enables precise control of the rotation axes while maintaining structural integrity, making it suitable for a wide range of solar panel installations.

UA126836C2-patent-drawing

3. Independent Two-Degree-of-Freedom Solar Tracking System with Separate Elevation and Azimuth Control

KWAK BYUNG MAN, 2023

An independent two-degree-of-freedom solar tracking system that enables accurate sun tracking without traditional dual-axis control. The system achieves this through a novel configuration where the two axes are controlled independently of each other, allowing precise control of both elevation and azimuth angles. This configuration eliminates the need for traditional dual-axis control systems, which typically require complex sensor-based control methods. The system's independent control enables precise sun tracking while maintaining robustness against wind disturbances, making it suitable for high-efficiency solar power generation applications.

US2023031272A1-patent-drawing

4. Integrated Single-Drive Solar Tracking System with Embedded Gear Train and Encoder

AHMET KAGIZMAN, 2022

A single-drive mechanical system for solar tracking systems that enables efficient energy production by following the sun's position during the day. The system integrates a motor with an encoder into a single drive element, utilizing a cage with embedded gear train components to achieve precise control of the tracking mechanism. This eliminates the need for separate motors and clutch mechanisms, reducing system complexity and maintenance requirements. The system operates through the rotation of the Earth around its axis, allowing the tracking mechanism to follow the sun's movement.

TR2021002497A1-patent-drawing

5. Solar Tracking System with Asymmetrical Adjustable Mounting Design for Dynamic Panel Orientation

ABDULKERIM KARABIBER, 2022

A solar tracking system that enables efficient energy generation by dynamically adjusting the orientation of solar panels to track the sun's movement throughout the day. The system employs an asymmetrical mounting design that allows the panels to be positioned at different angles relative to the vertical axis, eliminating the need for traditional fixed mounting structures. This enables the panels to capture more solar radiation by tracking the sun's position, resulting in higher energy production compared to traditional fixed mounting systems. The system can be configured for either photovoltaic (PV) panels or heat collection applications, and its adjustable mounting design enables precise control over the solar panel's orientation.

TR2022012713A2-patent-drawing

6. Single-Motor Solar Tracking System with Integrated Ratchet Gear Mechanism

DEVECI KAAN, 2022

Mechanical system for solar tracking systems that enables efficient and cost-effective tracking of the sun's position using a single motor. The system employs a single DC motor with an encoder to control the tracking mechanism, eliminating the need for separate motors and mechanical components. The system achieves optimal tracking performance from sunrise to sunset by utilizing a unique ratchet gear system within the motor's gearbox. This configuration enables precise azimuth and tilt control while minimizing the number of moving parts, making it suitable for photovoltaic systems and similar biaxial tracking applications.

WO2022177538A1-patent-drawing

7. Gimbal-Based Solar Tracking System with Independent Perpendicular Rotation Axes

KWAK BYUNG MAN, 2022

A solar tracking system that enables precise sun positioning through independent rotation axes, with the added benefit of precise elevation control. The system employs a gimbal structure with two perpendicular axes, one parallel to the Earth's rotational axis and the other perpendicular to it, allowing independent rotation while maintaining the principle of perpendicular alignment with the solar panel. This configuration enables precise tracking of the sun's position, eliminating the need for traditional two-axis tracking systems that rely on interdependent axis control. The system achieves this through a simple and robust mechanical design, making it suitable for both small-scale residential applications and large-scale commercial installations.

8. Solar Array Mounting Structure with Three-Legged Actuation for Dual-Axis Sun Tracking

DUFFIN ASSOCIATES LTD, 2022

Solar tracking system that enables maximum energy capture by dynamically adjusting the array's position to optimize its alignment with the sun's beam. The system comprises a three-legged mounting structure with linear actuators that enable precise pitch, roll, and yaw control. The actuators are positioned at the legs' joints, allowing the array to maintain its optimal position while rotating to track the sun's path. This dual-axis tracking capability enables maximum energy capture in both sunny and cloudy conditions, with potential gains of up to 30% compared to traditional fixed-orientation systems.

US2022123690A1-patent-drawing

9. Solar Positioner with Inverted U-Shaped Structure and Concentric Tubular Element for Dual-Axis Movement

ACTIVE FINANCIAL SA DE CV, 2022

A solar positioner using three Cartesian axes, which enables precise orientation of solar panels to maximize energy capture. The mechanism employs an inverted U-shaped structure with a pivoting support, where a tubular element and arrow are concentrically arranged. The tubular element has two movement axes: one for elevation and another for rotation. The rotation axis is controlled by a computer-optimized system that maintains the panel's orientation to the sun's rays. This design achieves optimal tracking by dynamically adjusting the panel's position relative to the sun's movement, with the tubular element and arrow providing precise control points.

10. Solar Tracking System with Mass-Based Positioning Mechanism for Periodic Panel Rotation

Robert Bradley Perham, 2022

Solar tracking system for photovoltaic panels that maintains optimal energy collection angles without external power sources. The system employs a novel tracking mechanism that periodically rotates solar panels to maintain their normal orientation relative to the sun's rays. The rotation is achieved through a mass-based positioning system that precisely controls the tilt angle between the tracking arm and the solar panel's normal plane. This approach ensures that the solar panels capture 99% of available solar energy regardless of the sun's position, even in locations with irregularly varying daylight patterns. The system is designed to operate independently of the internet and is particularly suitable for critical infrastructure and renewable energy applications.

US2022029575A1-patent-drawing

11. Solar Tracking System with Pivotable Chord Assemblies and Precision Vertical Actuator

FRAENKEL MICHAEL, 2022

Solar tracking system that optimizes energy production by dynamically adjusting the solar panel's tilt angle throughout the day. The system features a fixed base with adjustable mounting points, a pair of rotating chord assemblies with pivotable tilt, and a precision-driven vertical actuator. The actuator precisely controls the chord assemblies' tilt angles while maintaining structural integrity, allowing the system to track the sun's movement and optimize energy output.

US2022029576A1-patent-drawing

12. Solar Tracker System with Integrated Active-Passive Control Mechanisms and Dynamic Positioning Architecture

SUNFOLDING INC, 2021

Solar tracker system that enhances tracking performance through advanced control mechanisms. The system employs a combination of active and passive control systems, including brake mechanisms, ratchets, and dampers, to optimize tracking dynamics. The system's control architecture enables precise positioning of the tracker, while the brake mechanisms actively control the tracker's angle during wind events. The ratchet mechanism provides a manual override for tracking positions, and the dampers ensure optimal tracking stability. The system's monitoring capabilities continuously detect wind speed thresholds and tracking conditions, automatically adjusting the control mechanisms to maintain optimal tracking performance.

US2021399679A1-patent-drawing

13. Solar Tracking System with Articulation Mechanism for Dynamic Array Orientation

NEXTRACKER LLC, 2021

Solar tracking system that optimizes solar panel efficiency through dynamic array orientation. The system comprises a solar array, support beams, a torque tube, base, and articulation mechanism. The base supports the torque tube while the articulation mechanism enables precise rotation between the base and the torque tube. The system achieves optimal array orientation by dynamically adjusting the angle between the array and the sun's trajectory, eliminating the need for large and heavy trackers.

AU2021273519A1-patent-drawing

14. Sun Tracking Device with Integrated Azimuth and Elevation Rotation via Single Linear Actuator

SENER INGENIERIA Y SISTEMAS SA, 2021

A sun tracking device with a novel azimuth and elevation rotation mechanism that enables precise solar panel tracking through a single linear actuator. The device features a rotating stand that pivots around the azimuth angle while maintaining the solar panels in the desired orientation. A single linear actuator, positioned at the azimuth angle, provides rotation around the angle, while a separate linear actuator, positioned at the elevation angle, enables precise elevation control. This configuration eliminates the need for separate azimuth and elevation actuators, simplifying the mechanical design and reducing the number of components required.

15. Solar Tracking System with Integrated Pivoting Mechanism and Anchoring Base Post

SCHLETTER INTERNATIONAL BV, 2021

Pivoting solar tracking system for modules featuring a simplified assembly process. The system comprises a pivoting unit and a base post that can be anchored to the ground. The pivoting unit has a single, integrated mechanism for tracking the solar panels, eliminating the need for separate tracking arms. The base post provides stability and anchoring capability, while the pivoting mechanism enables quick and precise alignment of the tracking system. This design simplifies assembly while maintaining optimal tracking performance.

16. Solar Tracker System with Gear-Driven Hinge and Articulated Actuator-Gear Mechanism for Panel Orientation Adjustment

NEXTRACKER INC, 2020

Solar tracker system that optimizes energy generation by dynamically adjusting the orientation of solar panels to track the sun's position. The system comprises a support structure with multiple bases, a gear-driven hinge system connecting the bases, and an articulated mechanism comprising multiple actuator-gear couples. The actuator-gear couples enable the bases to rotate around the support structure while maintaining precise control over the solar panel orientation. This enables the system to achieve maximum energy production by dynamically adjusting the solar panel's angle to match the sun's position.

CN112042111A-patent-drawing

17. Solar Tracking System with Helical Groove-Driven Articulation Mechanism

NEXTRACKER INC, 2020

Solar tracking system with a novel articulation mechanism that enables precise orientation control through a compact, low-mass system. The system comprises a solar array, support beams, a torque tube, a base, and an articulation assembly. The articulation assembly features a screw rod that drives a nut through helical grooves in the outer tube, with rollers guiding the nut's rotation. This configuration enables precise control of the solar array's orientation while minimizing structural complexity and weight.

US2020373878A1-patent-drawing

18. Solar Tracking System with Helical Guide Mechanism and Linear Drive for Torque Tube Alignment

NEXTRACKER INC, 2020

Solar tracking system that eliminates backdriving of the solar array by using a helical guide mechanism to minimize the force of wind-induced torque. The system features a linear drive that translates the solar array in a north-south direction, while a helical guide rotates the torque tube to maintain directional alignment. This design prevents the solar array from acting as a sail and causing backdriving, ensuring optimal tracking performance even in wind conditions.

US2020373877A1-patent-drawing

19. Photovoltaic Panel Solar Tracking System with Rod-Semicircular-Rope Rotation Mechanism

SOUMPARAS FOTIS STAMATI, 2020

Solar tracking system for photovoltaic panels that enables maximum energy production while minimizing installation costs. The system comprises a rod, a semicircular component, and a rope, which together form a controlled rotation mechanism. The rod provides the primary axis of motion, while the semicircular component enables precise azimuth control. This configuration enables 180-degree rotation around the vertical axis, eliminating the need for traditional vertical-axis trackers. The system enables optimal tracking while maintaining the most cost-effective installation approach.

GR20190100174A-patent-drawing

20. Servo Motor Horizontal Drive Mechanism with Integrated Precision Rotation Control Unit

浙江申光电气有限公司, ZHEJIANG SHENGUANG ELECTRIC CO LTD, 2020

Servo motor horizontal drive mechanism for solar tracking devices that enables precise and stable rotation control through a novel motor arrangement. The mechanism features a high-precision servo motor with a dedicated control system that enables precise rotation control, eliminating the need for conventional motor shafts. The system achieves this through a novel motor mounting system that integrates the motor with a precision rotation control unit, eliminating the traditional motor shaft connection issues. This design enables precise control of the tracking device's rotation while maintaining high stability and environmental durability.

CN211603949U-patent-drawing

21. Dual-Axis Solar Tracking System with Rotating Arc Body for Dynamic Panel Orientation Adjustment

22. Photovoltaic Array Tracking System with Torque Rail and Actuator-Controlled Linkage

23. Dual-Axis Solar Tracking System with Precision Panel Rotation and Azimuth Control Mechanism

24. Two-Axis Solar Tracking System with Gantry-Mounted Rotatable Joints and Branch Pedestal Configuration

25. Dual-Axis Solar Tracking System with Worm Gear and Yoke Coupler Mechanism

Get Full Report

Access our comprehensive collection of patents related to this technology