Sensing and Control Strategies in Tracking Solar Systems

The paper addresses the sensing and control strategies for dual axis tracking solar concentrators appropriate for solar power systems used for cooling and heating. The constructive structures are introduced together with the remote monitoring architectures appropriate for characterizing the operation of such solar systems. Fundamental positioning structures and tracking principles are analyzed and the common sensing and control strategies are reviewed. Finally, an analysis of performance and nonidealities of a sensing structure is made, indicating solutions for optimal performance.