Solar Farm

Author(s) Information

Parker Folsom, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow
Jon Copeland, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow
Julia Fay, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow
Aiden Taylor, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis ObispoFollow

College - Author 1

College of Engineering

Department - Author 1

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree Name - Author 1

BS in Mechanical Engineering

College - Author 2

College of Engineering

Department - Author 2

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree - Author 2

BS in Mechanical Engineering

College - Author 3

College of Engineering

Department - Author 3

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree - Author 3

BS in Mechanical Engineering

College - Author 4

College of Engineering

Department - Author 4

Mechanical Engineering Department

Degree - Author 4

BS in Mechanical Engineering

Date

6-2024

Primary Advisor

Eileen Rossman, College of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Department

Abstract/Summary

This senior project focused on creating a portable single-axis solar follower. The purpose of this solar follower is to allow for single-axis tracking of the sun at various points on our sponsor's property to gather information on solar power production. This data will be utilized to locate future sites for a utility-scale solar farm.

The final design of the solar follower comprises four subsystems: two legs, the frame, and the panel assembly. This modular design allows for portability and adjustability on challenging terrain. Following the design stage, our team purchased and manufactured all of the necessary components. All manufacturing work was completed by team members at the Mustang 60 and Aero Hangar shops.

Verification of our final prototype was completed to confirm the prototype's functionality and its operation's safety. Some of the tests completed include effective solar tracking, stability on a slope, and frame deflection.

With the successful completion of the solar follower, our sponsor will now be able to perform solar power surveying tests on his property, allowing for an optimal layout of the future utility-scale solar farm. Properly selecting these sites will potentially reduce the environmental impacts of the solar farm and the principal costs.

URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/mesp/768