• Models
  • Contests
  • Slicer
  • Login
  • Start Here
    thingiverse-iconprintables-iconcults3d-iconmakerworld-iconmyminifactory-icon

    3D GO

    3D ModelsContestsCollectionsSaved ModelsOn a mobile device?

3D GO

Privacy Policy
Waterproof Solar Tracker 3D Printer File Image 1
Waterproof Solar Tracker 3D Printer File Image 2
Waterproof Solar Tracker 3D Printer File Image 3
Waterproof Solar Tracker 3D Printer File Image 4
Waterproof Solar Tracker 3D Printer File Image 5
Waterproof Solar Tracker 3D Printer File Image 6
Waterproof Solar Tracker 3D Printer File Image 7
Waterproof Solar Tracker 3D Printer File Image 8
Waterproof Solar Tracker 3D Printer File Image 9
Waterproof Solar Tracker 3D Printer File Image 10
Waterproof Solar Tracker 3D Printer File Thumbnail 1
Waterproof Solar Tracker 3D Printer File Thumbnail 2
Waterproof Solar Tracker 3D Printer File Thumbnail 3
Waterproof Solar Tracker 3D Printer File Thumbnail 4
Waterproof Solar Tracker 3D Printer File Thumbnail 5
Waterproof Solar Tracker 3D Printer File Thumbnail 6
Waterproof Solar Tracker 3D Printer File Thumbnail 7
Waterproof Solar Tracker 3D Printer File Thumbnail 8
Waterproof Solar Tracker 3D Printer File Thumbnail 9
Waterproof Solar Tracker 3D Printer File Thumbnail 10

Waterproof Solar Tracker

OTandAT avatarOTandAT

August 3, 2023

thingiverse-icon
DescriptionCommentsTags

Description

This is a 1 axis solar tracker (make two if you need 2 axis) that fits inside a 1/2 pint glass jar. I needed a waterproof tracker that can stand up to the elements. I used a stainless steel jar lid and ring to add longevity. Try to find a glass jar with a clear bottom if possible. This sensor uses two PDB-C139 photodiodes and two LTC 1050 op amps to provide a voltage level that you can easily read with an analog pin. I used an Arduino Nano but any Arduino would work. Simply compare both outputs to see what sensor is in full sun and what sensor is shaded. A light defuser is needed as the output of the PDB-C139 can be full when only 1/2 of the senser is exposed to sunlight. I used Teflon for my light defuser however I've also used a white plastic cover off of a broken shop light with equal success. Cut the light defuser to the same size as the teflonholder piece. I included the scad file for the teflonholder in case you need to adjust the thickness.

The vert solar holder piece bolts on with the lid and keeps the jar/sensor in alignment.
I also included the artwork for the PCB and see my YouTube channel (JTandHZ) on how to make a PCB if needed. I'll try to follow up with a DIY video ASAP.
This circuit was based on the: https://outsidescience.wordpress.com/2012/11/03/diy-science-measuring-light-with-a-photodiode-ii/

License:

Creative Commons - Attribution

Related Models

Jupiter preview image

Jupiter

RynosaurusRex profile image

RynosaurusRex

4,956

Solar System with Gravity Wells preview image

Solar System with Gravity Wells

krayt dragon profile image

krayt dragon

3,821

Wurmloch (Wormhole) preview image

Wurmloch (Wormhole)

MrFreakman profile image

MrFreakman

1,732

Solar System Model - Orrery (99.9% accuracy) preview image

Solar System Model - Orrery (99.9% accuracy)

JustRob profile image

JustRob

1,367

Scale model of the Solar System preview image

Scale model of the Solar System

3dmaan profile image

3dmaan

1,541

SOLAR SYSTEM preview image

SOLAR SYSTEM

Savy_Maker profile image

Savy_Maker

2,236