Study on solar tracking photovoltaic using a metal hydride actuator

Abstract

The new solar tracking system technology using MH (La_0.55Ce_0.44Ni_4.61Co_0.73Mn_0.1) actuator of the solar-heat drive is proposed. A hydrogen storage capacity is found in the relation between the temperature of MH, and the equilibrium pressure of hydrogen. Therefore, if the heat transfer amount to the MH is controllable, a hydrogen storage capacity can be taken.Hydrogen is enclosed in the same two MH reactors in which MH is contained and the solar panel tracks the angle of direction due to the difference in hydrogen pressure in these MH reactors. The hydrogen pressure of each MH reactors and the pressure difference required for driving the actuator are investigated with the 3D-CAD thermal fluid solver. Also, investigating the effect of wind condition analysis on MH and assumed the location of Sapporo in April (middle season), August (summer) and December (winter). As a result, the minimum driving pressure difference could be obtained at any time of each month. However, it was also considered, that the actuator might be driven inversely depending on the condition and cooling effect of the wind.