2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

As the need for sustainable energy solutions grows, it is crucial to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to innovate and improve renewable energy systems. Solar energy, a key pillar of sustainability, offers significant opportunities for learning, particularly in the design and implementation of efficient solar tracking systems. This paper presents the development of an interactive educational model of a dual-axis solar panel tracker, specifically designed as a learning platform for engineering students. The aim of this project is to provide students with hands-on experience in understanding, designing, and implementing solar energy systems, thereby bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

Unlike traditional fixed or single-axis solar panel systems, this model leverages dual-axis tracking technology, providing students with a more complex and dynamic learning experience. However, the core value of this research is not just in demonstrating the improved efficiency of dual-axis trackers but in creating a scalable, intuitive platform where students can actively engage with solar energy concepts. Through this model, students gain practical skills in system design, microcontroller programming, and troubleshooting common challenges such as overcharging, over-discharging, and system faults.

This platform encourages students to think critically about energy efficiency, system optimization, and sustainability as they experiment with real-time data monitoring, control mechanisms, and performance analysis. It also provides a space for collaborative problem-solving and innovation, allowing learners to tackle real-world engineering challenges in a controlled, educational setting.

The dual-tracker offers an educational platform that is modular, and portable and combined with its user-friendly interface, ensures accessibility for students across various skill levels. It can be seamlessly integrated into renewable energy curricula or utilized in standalone workshops and labs. Through this platform, students not only develop technical expertise and apply engineering knowledge from previous courses, but also gain a deeper understanding of the broader impact of renewable energy technologies. This experience empowers them to contribute meaningfully to future global energy transition challenges.

The dual-axis tracker system is initially piloted with a smaller group of students to gather feedback and insights. The results from surveys and student feedback are overwhelmingly positive, indicating the model's effectiveness in facilitating learning. Based on this feedback, modifications are made to further improve the system before rolling it out to a larger class for validation. The educational outcomes of the dual-axis tracker system reinforce its potential as a comprehensive teaching tool, inspiring and preparing future engineers to make significant contributions to the evolving field of sustainable energy.