Description
Since I have been working with the successful balcony power plants (here in Germany), I have been wondering how to further improve the energy yield of the two to four solar modules.
The "Sunchronizer S1" is a solar module holder with which "standard" 400W solar modules can automatically track the sun in one axis. As with other projects on Nerdiy.de, the required parts consist mainly of 3D printed components and standard mechanical parts.
Ultimately, everyone should be able to build their own solar tracker for their solar modules.
The axis is tracked using a 6000N linear actuator, which is controlled via an ESP32 and corresponding electronics. The firmware of the ESP32 is based on ESPHome and can therefore be easily integrated into HomeAssistant or many other SmartHome systems. However, the Sunchronizer can also be used independently of a connection to other systems. For example, the position can be obtained automatically via a GPS receiver, which means that the current time is also known. The optimum elevation angle is then calculated and set on the basis of this data (and the fixed orientation (compass direction) of the Sunchronizer). To ensure that this can be set correctly, the angle of the solar module is measured four times per second using an acceleration sensor and adjusted accordingly if necessary.
DIY solar tracker for everyone!
Improve the energy yield of your solar module with the "Sunchronizer S1" Solar Tracker! It consists of 3D-printed components and standard mechanical parts from which you can assemble your own solar tracker. Correctly assembled and configured, it can then optimally track the elevation axis of a 400W "standard" solar module installed on it to the sun and thus maximize the energy yield.
The advantages of a solar tracker at a glance:
- Maximized energy harvest: Thanks to the precise alignment of your solar module, you won't miss any sunrays and thus increase your energy harvest.
- Increased efficiency: The Sunchronizer continuously optimizes the angle of your solar panel to ensure that it is always at the optimum angle to the sun, resulting in improved performance.
- Space-saving solution: Thanks to its compact design, the Sunchronizer takes up very little space and can be easily integrated into almost any environment, whether in your garden or on a flat or pitched roof.
- Sustainability: Use the inexhaustible energy of the sun and reduce your dependence on traditional energy sources. With the Sunchronizer, you are not only investing in your own future, but also in the future of our planet.
Please note: No physical components will be sent. You will receive the files in STL format and must print them out on a 3D printer in order to build the project.
Please also note: This design works but has not yet been tested in the long term. So please use the linked components responsibly, carefully and not in any other way than specified. Pay particular attention to the linked safety instructions.
This offer contains the STL files you need to print the 3D printable components for the Sunchronizer S1 System required.
- You will soon find further information on the assembly and other components required in the assembly article. It will be linked here as soon as it is published.
- Observe the safety instructions linked below during assembly and use: Click here
Additional components are required to build the complete project. A complete list of the required parts can be found here
Required tool:
| Number | Link |
|---|---|
| 1x | Screwdriver set Buy at Amazon |
| 1x | Soldering iron Buy at Amazon |
| 1x | 3D Printer |
| 1x | Cordless screwdriver Buy at Amazon |
| 1x | Bit set Buy at Amazon |
| 1x | Pointed pliers Buy at Amazon |
Material required Sunchronizer S1 mechanics & electronics:
Required material BMI160 module housing:
Required material NEO7MV2 GPS receiver module:
Gallery
3D printing information
- Filament type: Weather and UV-resistant, e.g. PETG, ABS, etc.
- Layer thickness: 0.2mm
- Infill: 25%
- Wall lines: 6
ESPHome example configuration
You can find an example configuration for ESPHome under the following link:
Videos
Dimensions & technical data
The following is an overview of the usual dimensions with and without solar module in various positions. If dimensions are missing, please use the contact form let us know and we will add this later.
- Weight: approx. 8Kg
- Power consumption max: 60W
- energy consumption per year:
- Maximum module dimensions:
- Minimum module dimensions:
File list
- actuator_bottom_base_2060_6000N_actuator_X.stl
- actuator_top_base_2060_6000N_actuator_X.stl
- beton_plate_holder_X.stl
- bottom_elevation_hinge_left_2060_X.stl
- bottom_elevation_hinge_male_long_left_2060_X.stl
- bottom_elevation_hinge_male_long_right_2060_X.stl
- bottom_elevation_hinge_right_2060_X.step
- bottom_landing_pad_2060_X.stl
- bottom_t_cross_connector_2060_X.stl
- cable_clamp_flat_2060_X.stl
- electronics_box__sunchronizer_S1_X.stl
- panel_clamp_bottom_2060_X.stl
- panel_clamp_top_2060_X.stl
- panel_holder_bottom_bottom_clamp_X.stl
- panel_holder_bottom_top_clamp_X.stl
- panel_holder_bottom_2060_X.stl
- sensor_bank_gps&SolSpot_X.stl
- top_t_cross_connector_2060_X.stl
- DXF for electronics cover
FAQ
-
Does it "pay off" at all/when will the costs be amortized?
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