Date of Completion
5-14-2025
Degree Type
Honors Thesis
Discipline
Mechanical Engineering (MECH)
First Advisor
Dr. Mustafa Mozael
Abstract
This Final Design Review outlines the design and implementation of an automated sun-tracking solar panel system for Loyola Marymount University's campus. The project aims to improve the efficiency of existing static solar panels by designing a new system of sun-tracking panels at a low cost and high power efficiency. The report covers the project's background, including LMU's current solar energy infrastructure and sustainability goals. It analyzes the advantages of automated solar panels over static ones, presenting comparative studies that demonstrate significant increases in energy capture. The report details the calculations for solar angle tracking, along with the mechanics and electronics for how the tracking device works. The design specifications focus on using linear actuators for panel movement and a Raspberry Pi for system control. The report also addresses considerations for weather-dependent operation and integration with existing infrastructure. The average percent difference in instantaneous power produced by the dynamic panel vs. the static panel was 36.5%. This project aligns with LMU's sustainability initiatives and aims to increase clean energy production on campus while providing a cost-effective solution for upgrading existing solar installations.
Recommended Citation
Hennessy, Michael; Michaelis, Jack; Leon, Jack; Aiello, Nick; and Mozael, Mustafa, "Automated Solar Panel for LMU Campus" (2025). Honors Thesis. 580.
https://digitalcommons.lmu.edu/honors-thesis/580
