GPS-guided solar tracking systems must maintain positional accuracy within 0.1 degrees while managing mechanical loads that can exceed 2000N-m during wind events. Current systems achieve this through combinations of GPS receivers, inclinometers, and astronomical algorithms—but face challenges with calibration drift, mechanical backlash, and environmental interference that can reduce energy capture by up to 12% annually.

The fundamental challenge lies in balancing precise positioning accuracy with mechanical robustness and cost-effective implementation across diverse environmental conditions.

This page brings together solutions from recent research—including dual GNSS antenna configurations for dynamic orientation, integrated rotation matrix calculations for high-accuracy positioning, and robust mechanical systems using single-motor designs with ratchet gear mechanisms. These and other approaches focus on achieving reliable solar tracking while minimizing maintenance requirements and system complexity.

1. Integrated Solar and Optical Satellite System with Combined Vector and Infrared Pulse Analysis for Position and Attitude Determination

UNIV TSINGHUA, 2024

Global positioning system that integrates solar and optical satellites for precise navigation and attitude determination. The system employs a solar observation vector, satellite angle measurement, and infrared pulse receiver to determine the satellite's position and attitude simultaneously. The solar vector is calculated from current solar azimuth measurements, while the satellite's angle is determined from its current position. The infrared receiver captures the satellite's optical signal, which is used to calculate the satellite's position. By combining these measurements through a least-squares solution, the system achieves accurate positioning and attitude determination in both daylight and nighttime conditions.

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2. Solar Tracking System with Integrated Reflective Surface and Dual Bearing Alignment

HAPPEL ARMIN, 2023

A solar tracking system for photovoltaic collectors that enables cost-effective and efficient tracking through the use of standard components. The system employs a bearing system with a pivot bearing for horizontal alignment and a bearing system with a simple bearing for vertical alignment. The system utilizes photovoltaic collectors, heat collectors, and mirrors to reflect incident light. The mirrors are integrated into the collector frame to create a reflective surface that enhances light absorption. The system achieves tracking capabilities without the need for complex rotatable components, enabling more affordable and reliable solar tracking solutions.

3. Solar Tracker System with Rotational Arch and Radial Roller Guide Devices

NEXANS, 2023

A solar tracker system with improved rotational guidance that enhances wear distribution and maintains structural integrity. The system comprises a rotating arch supported by a lattice frame that extends vertically, with each arch having guide devices comprising radial rollers that move in rotation around their axis. The guide devices are designed to be dynamically driven by the arch's rotation, ensuring continuous contact and support while minimizing contact points with the lattice frame. This configuration distributes the tracking forces across the arch and frame, reducing premature wear in critical areas.

4. Positioning System with Solar Orientation Data Integration and Rotation Matrix Calculation

HUNAN AEROSPACE YUANWANG SCIENCE & TECH CO LTD, 2022

Positioning method, device, and system for achieving high-accuracy positioning with precise orientation. The method improves upon conventional navigation by integrating solar orientation data into the positioning process. It calculates the rotation matrix between the current geodetic and solar reference frames, and between the camera frame and the object's coordinate system. This enables precise orientation control and maintains accurate position determination through the integration of solar orientation data.

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5. Solar Tracking System with Asymmetrical Adjustable Mounting Design

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.

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6. Solar Tracking System with Single Motor and Integrated Ratchet Gear Mechanism for Azimuth and Tilt Control

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.

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7. Solar Panel Tracking System with Dual GNSS Antennas for Dynamic Orientation Adjustment

UNIVERSITY OF ELECTRONIC SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY OF CHINA, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, 2022

Solar energy tracking system that eliminates the need for manual alignment of solar panels by leveraging dual GNSS antennas. The system employs a vertical installation configuration where the dual antennas maintain a direct line-of-sight to the sun, creating a precise baseline. The positioning timing solution continuously calculates the solar panel's precise coordinates based on satellite signals, while the tracking control module dynamically adjusts the solar panel's orientation to maintain optimal alignment. This eliminates the need for manual alignment procedures, ensuring consistent tracking performance throughout the day.

8. Solar Positioner with Inverted U-Shaped Pivoting Structure and Concentric Tubular Element for Three-Axis Orientation

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.

9. Portable Sun Tracking System with GPS and NMEA-Driven Solar Panel Orientation

JBC TECHNOLOGIES LLC, 2022

A portable sun tracking system for RVs that enables precise solar panel positioning. The system consists of a frame that mounts to the RV's ground, with solar panels positioned to maximize energy capture. The system incorporates GPS and NMEA data to determine optimal solar panel orientation in response to sky conditions and time of day.

10. Modular Smart Solar System with Three-Dimensional Panel Tracking and Dual-Part Vertical Swing Mechanism

YAZICI FURKAN, 2022

A smart solar system that enables efficient electricity generation by tracking three-dimensional solar panels through its mobile mechanism. The system features a modular design with 8-12 blade configurations, a 2-part vertical swing mechanism, and a polyamide castermid for blade movement. The mechanism enables continuous blade opening and closing while maintaining optimal light transmission and panel efficiency. The system includes automated blade cleaning and protection features, as well as remote monitoring capabilities through Ethernet/Internet connectivity.

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11. Solar Tracking System with Dynamic Angle Adjustment via Repositioning Members

KIM DO HOON, 2022

Solar tracking system that optimizes photovoltaic panel position for maximum power generation efficiency. The system comprises multiple repositioning members positioned between the solar panel and the installation surface, allowing the panel to dynamically adjust its angle in response to changing sunlight conditions. This enables the solar panel to achieve optimal alignment with the sun's rays, maximizing energy production while maintaining structural integrity.

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12. Spherical Sensor Array with Rotating Light Sensors for Solar Source Localization

Dokuz Eylül University Rectorate Strategy Development Department Presidency, 2021

A light source localization system that enables precise tracking of solar energy sources using a sensor array on a spherical structure. The system comprises a sensor array that includes light sensors positioned at angular intervals, with the array rotating around a central axis to cover the entire spherical surface. The sensor array is mounted on a flexible strip that can be positioned in a fixed or mobile configuration, enabling continuous scanning of the solar field. The system achieves high spatial resolution and accuracy through its unique rotating sensor array design, which enables precise detection of solar position and intensity.

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13. Sun-Tracking Canopy System with Motorized Adjustable Arms and Environmental Monitoring

UNM RAINFOREST INNOVATIONS, 2021

A sun-tracking canopy system for permanent shade provision that automatically adjusts to changing conditions. The system comprises a motorized canopy with multiple adjustable arms positioned on elevated platforms, controlled by a microcontroller. The platform elevation is determined by GPS coordinates and latitude/longitude data, while the canopy's position is calculated based on solar elevation and azimuth. The system automatically maintains a fixed shade location across the year, with features like rain detection and LED lighting. The microcontroller continuously monitors environmental conditions and adjusts the canopy's position to maintain optimal shade coverage.

14. Solar-Powered Asset Tracking System with Integrated GPS and Cellular Communication

RODRIGO TADEU GARCIA PALASSI, 2021

A system for tracking and locating movable assets using solar-powered tracking devices that integrate cellular communication capabilities. The system comprises a solar-powered tracking device equipped with GPS and cellular connectivity, which continuously monitors asset location and transmits precise positioning data to a central server. The system also incorporates cellular-based location tracking, enabling real-time asset location even when power is disconnected. This integrated approach enables continuous asset tracking while minimizing the need for traditional tracking devices and batteries, making it particularly suitable for applications where mobility is critical, such as rail transportation.

15. Flat Single-Axis Solar Tracking System with DSP-Controlled Real-Time Positioning

JIANGSU ZHENJIANG NEW ENERGY EQUIPMENT CO LTD, 2021

A flat single-axis solar tracking system employing a digital signal processor (DSP) to optimize solar energy harvesting. The system comprises a flat solar panel array mounted on a single-axis tracking mechanism, which is controlled by a DSP processing unit. The DSP performs real-time calculations to determine optimal tracking positions based on solar irradiance patterns, ensuring maximum energy capture while minimizing losses. This enables the system to achieve higher energy yields compared to conventional tracking methods.

16. Rooftop Solar Tracking System with Dynamic Angle Adjustment and Integrated Solar Irradiance Sensors

CY ENERJI LIMITED SIRKETI, 2021

Solar tracking system for maximizing energy production in rooftop installations. The system employs advanced tracking technology that optimizes solar irradiance exposure by dynamically adjusting the panel's angle relative to the sun's position. The system includes sensors to monitor and control the tracking angle, a control circuit to manage the movement, and a monitoring system to ensure system health. The system achieves maximum energy production through precise angle control, with optimal results achieved at ±34°. The system incorporates specialized sensors to accurately measure solar irradiance, enabling precise tracking and optimal energy production.

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17. Solar Tracking System with Rotating Platform and Three-Stage Grooved Stopper Mechanism

SEO JUNG SOO, 2021

A solar tracking system that optimizes solar panel efficiency through dynamic angle adjustment based on solar intensity. The system features a frame with a solar panel mounted on a rotating platform, which is connected to a central control unit. The platform's rotation is controlled by a three-stage stopper mechanism that engages specific grooves in the platform's surface. The stopper's position is precisely calibrated to maintain optimal alignment with the sun's rays, maximizing energy generation while minimizing panel wear. The system incorporates a mechanical linkage that enables precise control over the stopper's movement, ensuring consistent performance across varying solar conditions.

18. Single-Axis Solar Tracker with Real-Time Cloud-Adaptive Orientation Control System

NEXTRACKER INC, 2020

Optimizing single-axis solar trackers for maximum energy production by dynamically adjusting their orientation based on real-time cloud cover monitoring. The tracker employs a cloud coverage model that maps the solar luminance distribution across different elevation angles, enabling precise control over the optimal tracking angle. The system employs a cloud coverage mapping algorithm that continuously compares the observed cloud conditions with predefined coverage models, switching between them based on the most accurate match. This adaptive approach ensures optimal tracking angles even under variable cloud conditions, while maintaining the tracker's mechanical durability and energy efficiency.

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19. Concentrating Photovoltaic System with Dual-Control Radio and Astronomical Clock-Based Solar Tracking

UNIV INT RABAT, 2020

A concentrating photovoltaic (CPV) system with high angular precision that maintains optimal alignment with solar rays during solar movements. The system employs a radio-controlled clock-based control system for precise tracking, while incorporating an astronomical clock for accurate timekeeping. This dual-control approach enables the system to maintain optimal alignment even in cloudy conditions, achieving unparalleled precision and responsiveness in both clear and overcast environments.

20. Modular Solar Panel Tracking System with Dual-Positioning Adjustable Configurations

NEXTRACKER INC, 2020

Solar panel tracking system with adjustable tracking configurations for optimal energy capture. The system enables precise control over solar panels' orientation and position through a modular architecture that can be configured to accommodate various solar panel configurations. The system comprises a base unit with a series of solar panels arranged in a predetermined pattern, and a secondary unit that can be positioned at the base to adjust the overall tracking angle. This dual-positioning capability allows the system to optimize energy production across a wide range of solar conditions.

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21. Dual-Axis Solar Tracking System with Precision Rotating Plate and Motorized Base for Dynamic Panel Orientation Adjustment

22. Sun Tracking System with Dual Satellite Receivers for Determining Azimuth Line on Mobile Objects

23. Sun Tracking System Utilizing Power Output Comparison for Solar Panels

24. Solar Panel Tracking System with Dual-Axis Rotary Support and Integrated Environmental Monitoring Sensors

25. Carrier Platform for Parabolic Solar Collectors with Dual-Axis Tracking System

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