Classic and Hybrid Control Systems in Parabolic Trough Collector

The depletion of traditional energy resources due to exponential consumption driven by population growth is leading to a shift towards alternative energy sources. Solar energy is prominent among these as it is abundant and reliable. This study presents a hybrid control system for solar tracking in a laboratory parabolic trough collector (PTC) with two degrees of freedom. The system combines an open-loop mechanism for azimuth angle control with a fuzzy logic controller (FLC) for altitude angle adjustment, alongside classical controllers (PI and PID) for comparison. These systems enable the collector to automatically reorient itself, achieving an average temperature of 143.91 $$^{\circ }$$ C in the incident ray-receiving tube. Notably, the fuzzy controller outperforms others with a rapid stabilization time of 16 ms and minimal oscillations. Previous research aimed to enhance solar tracking efficiency but faced challenges under adverse meteorological conditions, leading to unreliable light sensor readings. Therefore, this project aims to design a hybrid controller that combines open-loop and closed-loop systems for a two-degree-of-freedom PTC. Open-loop control relies on a mathematical algorithm tracking the sun’s apparent movement, ensuring accurate readings even under unfavorable conditions. Closed-loop control uses a fuzzy algorithm to fine-tune the PTC’s position, aligning it orthogonally to solar radiation. This holistic approach aims to enhance solar tracking performance and overall renewable energy system efficiency.