Solar Panel Driver Design as a Source of Insect Trapping Energy in Cucumber Plant

Abstract

Cucumber cultivation requires effective pest control, such as the use of light based insect traps. Solar energy serves as a viable alternative power source, particularly in locations with limited access to electricity. This study aimed to design and evaluate a solar panel tracking system based on Light Dependent Resistor (LDR) sensors to supply power to insect traps. The system utilizes two 50 Wp solar panels, LDR sensors, an Arduino microcontroller, a micro servo for light direction detection, and a servo motor as the primary actuator via a pulley mechanism. Testing was conducted at angles of 30°, 60°, 90°, and 120° with 15 minute intervals. Observed parameters included panel position, light intensity, voltage, current, output power, system accuracy, servo response time, and battery energy requirements. The results demonstrated a system accuracy of 95–100% and a servo response time of 0.97–1.43 seconds. Average no load output power over three consecutive days was 37.12 W, 21.75 W, and 16.61 W. With a 2.4 W load, output power was 13.46 W, 16.63 W, and 17.41 W, while with a 5 W load, it was 12.48 W, 12.97 W, and 15.50 W. Daily energy consumption was 222.14 Wh, requiring a minimum battery capacity of 18.51 Ah. The system is capable of tracking light direction and has the potential to support independent energy supply for insect traps in cucumber cultivation.