Embedded Microcontrol for Photovoltaic Water Pumping System

Abstract

We introduce a novel 3-axis solar tracker water pumping system. The charge generated from solar energy converted by the photovolatic panel (PV) cells is stored in a 12V battery that in turn powers two water diaphragm pumps using a solar charge controller that includes an MPPT algorithm that serves as a DC-DC converter. The system is analyzed from an embedded microcontroller and embedded software perspective using Arduino. The photovoltaic panel uses four light photocell resistors (LPRs) which measure solar light intensity. An ultrasonic sensor measures the water level in a reservoir water tank. If the water level is too low, water is pumped from one water tank to the reservoir tank. Using a soil moisture sensor, another water pump pumps water from the reservoir tank to the plant if water is needed. Circuit designs for the system are provided as well as the embedded software used. Simulation and experimental results are given.