Design, Dynamic Simulation, and Prototyping of a Dual-Axis Solar Tracker Using a Slider-Crank Mechanism

Authors

  • Ahmed Saber College of Engineering and Technology, American University of the Middle East, Kuwait
  • Mohammad Al Sharah College of Engineering and Technology, American University of the Middle East, Kuwait
  • Yahya Al Tamimi College of Engineering and Technology, American University of the Middle East, Kuwait
  • Semaan Amine College of Engineering and Technology, American University of the Middle East, Kuwait
  • Eddie Gazo Hanna College of Engineering and Technology, American University of the Middle East, Kuwait
Volume: 15 | Issue: 5 | Pages: 26224-26230 | October 2025 | https://doi.org/10.48084/etasr.12414

Received: 30 May 2025 | Revised: 19 June 2025 | Accepted: 28 June 2025 | Online: 26 July 2025


Corresponding author: Eddie Gazo Hanna

Abstract

Solar trackers improve the photovoltaic energy output by keeping panels aligned with the sun throughout the day. This study introduces a novel, dual-axis solar tracking system driven by an inverted slider-crank mechanism. This system is designed to reduce the mechanical complexity and improve the energy efficiency compared to conventional tracking systems. The kinematic behavior was analyzed using GIM software and the torque and load requirements were evaluated utilizing dynamic simulation in SolidWorks Motion. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was deployed to assess the structural integrity under wind loads. The system provided a reliable tracking accuracy, smooth motion, and acceptable stress levels with a practical Factor of Safety (FOS). A prototype was built to confirm the effectiveness of the mechanism, offering a compact, low-maintenance alternative to traditional dual-axis trackers, supporting the use of solar technologies in regions with high irradiance.

Keywords:

dual-axis solar tracker, slider-crank mechanism, renewable energy, kinematics, stress analysis

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How to Cite

[1]
A. Saber, M. Al Sharah, Y. Al Tamimi, S. Amine, and E. Gazo Hanna, “Design, Dynamic Simulation, and Prototyping of a Dual-Axis Solar Tracker Using a Slider-Crank Mechanism”, Eng. Technol. Appl. Sci. Res., vol. 15, no. 5, pp. 26224–26230, Oct. 2025.

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Copyright (c) 2025 Ahmed Saber, Mohammad Al Sharah, Yahya Al Tamimi, Semaan Amine, Eddie Gazo Hanna

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