Kids OK with adultArduino NanoLevel 2/3
2-Axis Solar Sun Tracker
Four light sensors and two servos keep the panel facing the sun all day, for about 35% more energy in our simulation.
Kids OK, with an adult
DIY project. Children must build this only with an adult (16+ years) beside them at all times. Not suitable for children under 8 years.
Use PETG or ASA if the tracker will stay outdoors.
Strictly follow the description given with this video.
Video
The video link will be added here soon.
How it works
- Four LDRs sit in the corners of a 3D-printed "+" shadow wall.
- If the sun moves, the wall shades some LDRs more than others.
- The Nano compares left vs right and top vs bottom.
- The pan and tilt servos turn the panel until all four LDRs see the same light.
Parts you need
- Arduino Nano× 1Buy
- 4× LDR modules (use the AO pin)× 4Buy
- 2× MG90S servos (pan + tilt)× 2Buy
- 5V 3A supply× 1Buy
- 6V 2W mini solar panel× 1Buy
Kit for this projectPrice on request
Get the kitWiring
PowerGroundSignal
| # | From | Connect to |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Signal | LDR top-left AO | Nano A0 |
| 2 Signal | LDR top-right AO | Nano A1 |
| 3 Signal | LDR bottom-left AO | Nano A2 |
| 4 Signal | LDR bottom-right AO | Nano A3 |
| 5 Power | All LDR VCC | Nano 5V |
| 6 Ground | All LDR GND | Nano GND |
| 7 Signal | Pan servo signal | Nano D9 |
| 8 Signal | Tilt servo signal | Nano D10 |
| 9 Power | Servo 5V | 5V 3A supply + |
| 10 Ground | Servo GND | 5V 3A supply − |
| 11 Ground | Nano GND | Supply − (common ground) |
3D print files
- pan_tilt_base.stlPETG / ASA for outdoors · 0.2 mmLink at launch
- ldr_cross_shield.stlBlack PETG works bestLink at launch
Code
The tested Arduino / ESP32 code for this project will be posted here, ready to copy.