Four-Axis Test Platform to Emulate Solar Azimuth and Elevation for Accurate Measurement of PV Devices

Abstract

The use of a solar source simulator in obtaining experimental data for a PV cell is well documented and current solar source technology is advanced in closely reproducing natural light in a laboratory setting. A test system is proposed by the authors that can simulate the sun levels at any point on the earth and at any time or over a period of time. The system allows for accurate positioning of a PV cell array to maintain a 25x25 cm uniform area directly beneath the solar source while altering the azimuth and elevation to the particular geographical position and time required. This paper presents an evaluation of the test system using a PV cell placed in a Compound Parabolic Concentrator (CPC) to show a comparison between the acceptance angles at various points at times.