Solar tracker calculation of torques and forces

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on designing a dual-axis solar tracker for a final year project, specifically the calculation of forces, torques, and factors of safety (FOS). Key equations mentioned include F = ma for force and T = Jα for torque, emphasizing the need for basic statics and dynamics analysis. It is crucial to size the system for maximum acceleration and consider all resistances to motion, such as friction and gravity, to determine peak torque. After calculating these parameters, the motors and gear trains should be appropriately sized to match the required specifications. Proper analysis will ensure the solar tracker operates efficiently and effectively.
vassos_ael
Messages
4
Reaction score
0
hi

i am designing a solar tracker for my final year project. its a dual axis solar tracker with two stepper motors one rotating a shaft and the other tilting a bar. i need help on calculating forces torques and finding the FOS. can anyone help me?
 

Attachments

  • Assem1.JPG
    Assem1.JPG
    12.6 KB · Views: 576
Engineering news on Phys.org
You said "final year", didn't you? This is basic statics & dynamics analysis.
F = ma
T = Jα

Should be sized for maximum acceleration (increase from speed1 to speed2, then reverse to stop). Include every possible resistance to motion you can dream up (friction, gravity effects, efficiencies, any & all inertia effects) in order to size for "peak torque" on the rotational axes. Once you have that, then you size your motors, gear trains, etc., to match.
 

Thread 'Query on Isentropic relationships (such as PV^gamma = constant)'

Hi all, I have a question. So from the derivation of the Isentropic process relationship PV^gamma = constant, there is a step dW = PdV, which can only be said for quasi-equilibrium (or reversible) processes. As such I believe PV^gamma = constant (and the family of equations) should not be applicable to just adiabatic processes? Ie, it should be applicable only for adiabatic + reversible = isentropic processes? However, I've seen couple of online notes/books, and...
View full post »

Thread 'Dry sump pump issue'

I have an engine that uses a dry sump oiling system. The oil collection pan has three AN fittings to use for scavenging. Two of the fittings are approximately on the same level, the third is about 1/2 to 3/4 inch higher than the other two. The system ran for years with no problem using a three stage pump (one pressure and two scavenge stages). The two scavenge stages were connected at times to any two of the three AN fittings on the tank. Recently I tried an upgrade to a four stage pump...
View full post »

Similar threads

Torque calculation of solar tracker
Replies
13
Views
11K
Dual-Axis Solar Tracker Torque requirements
Replies
6
Views
2K
Misc. An improvement on my previous low-tech way to rotate solar panels
Replies
18
Views
2K
Motion-powered GPS tracker to install permanently inside a bicycle frame
Replies
19
Views
6K
How do I select the right motor and gear ratio for a mid-drive e-Bike?
Replies
2
Views
4K
Calculate hold down force for rotating shaft
Replies
3
Views
5K
How to calculate required torque for a robot arm
Replies
2
Views
4K
What can we learn from a friend's solar home data in Vermont?
Replies
1
Views
3K
How Do You Calculate Operator Force and Torque in a Multi-Gear System?
Replies
2
Views
3K
Solar System Forces -- Simulating the planetary orbits for my project
Replies
18
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top