Tunnelplan Suntracker 2

Tunnel Plan Suntracker 2
This sun tracker operates based on the principle that the Earth rotates 180 degrees relative to the Sun during the day. At night, the Earth continues its rotation, positioning the Sun in the east again by morning. The tracking system follows this motion, aligning the solar panel for maximum efficiency throughout the day.

Rotation Principle
Morning: The system starts at 0 degrees (east).

Midday: It moves to 90 degrees (south).

Afternoon: It continues to 180 degrees (west).

Night Reset: The Earth’s rotation brings it back to 0 degrees (east) by morning.

Mechanical System
A 12V DC motor with a constant rotation speed of 1 revolution per minute (RPM) powers the tracker. The motor is connected to a double worm gear transmission (modified from Thingiverse model 5362961) with a 1:1440 reduction ratio. This ensures that the output shaft rotates precisely 1 revolution in 24 hours, keeping the solar panel aligned with the Sun’s movement.

Building Your Own Sun Tracker
For DIY assembly, refer to the "Costs and Materials List.pdf" in the project files. Additionally, check the provided photos for detailed mounting instructions.

Additional Technical Details

1. Power Supply & Motor Control:
   Motor: 12V DC motor (1 RPM)

Power Source: 12V battery or solar-powered system

Control System:

Basic: Constant rotation using a geared system

Advanced: Microcontroller-based tracking (optional for precision)

1. Gear Reduction & Movement:
   Double Worm Gear Transmission:

Reduction Ratio: 1:1440

Input: 1 RPM from DC motor

Output: 1 revolution per 24 hours

Rotation Axis:

Mounted in an east-west orientation

Panel follows the Sun's daily arc

1. Mounting & Adjustments:
   Panel Mounting: Adjustable tilt for seasonal changes

Rotation Range:

0° (East) → 180° (West) over 12 hours

Returns to 0° (East) overnight