Solar Tracking Turntable with Stevenson Screen Sensor Housing

This case is for an automated solar panel turntable system that tracks the sun's position to maximize energy efficiency. The design features an integrated Stevenson screen housing that protects environmental sensors (such as BME280) while allowing proper air circulation for accurate temperature, humidity, and pressure readings. The turntable rotates based on programmed parameters, making it perfect for solar tracking applications, weather stations, or any project requiring sun-oriented positioning.

• Automated Solar Tracking: Motorized turntable rotates to follow the sun

• Stevenson Screen Design: Properly ventilated sensor housing following meteorological standards

• Compact Electronics example:

  • ESP32 microcontroller (ESP-SMD)

  • BME280 environmental sensor

  • NCR18650 battery power

  • USB charging module

• Robust Construction: Designed for outdoor use

• Microswitch Limit Detection: Prevents over-rotation

• Modular Design: Easy to assemble and maintain

Printed Parts:

• Base (Pohjaosa)

• Middle Ring (MiddleRing)

• Top Cover/Lid (Kansi)

• Stevenson Shield components

• Gears

Electronics:

• ESP32 development board

• BME280 sensor

• NCR18650 battery

• USB charging module

• Stepper motor or servo motor

• Microswitch

• M3x5 screws

• Wiring

Gears and Bolts:

• Material: PETG

• Temperature: 240°C (initial 230°C, final layer 225°C)

• Build plate: 75°C

• Retraction distance: 6mm

• Print speed: 30 mm/s

• Retraction speed: 75 mm/s

• Fan speed: 30% (initial 0%, regular 20%)

Bottom Part:

• Material: PETG

• Support: Zigzag pattern, 15% density

• Support Z-distance: 0.2mm

• Temperature: 240°C (initial 230°C, final layer 225°C)

• Build plate: 75°C

• Retraction distance: 6mm

• Retraction speed: 75 mm/s

• Fan speed: 30% (initial 0%, regular 20%)

Pipes with Threads:

• Infill: 25%

• Layer height: 0.1mm (start with 0.2mm)

• No supports needed

Assembly Instructions

1. Print all parts according to specifications

2. Install the motor in the base

3. Mount the gears and ensure smooth rotation

4. Install electronics (ESP32, BME280, USB charger) in the base compartment

5. Mount the battery holders

6. Install microswitch for limit detection

7. Assemble the Stevenson screen with the BME280 sensor

8. Connect all wiring according to your circuit diagram

9. Attach the middle ring and top cover

10. Program the ESP32 with your solar tracking algorithm

How It Works

The device uses the ESP32 to control the motor based on either (program code not included):

• Time-based solar position calculations

• Light sensor input for active tracking

• Pre-programmed schedules

The Stevenson screen design ensures the BME280 sensor gets accurate environmental readings by protecting it from direct sunlight and precipitation while maintaining proper air flow.

Program the ESP32 with your preferred solar tracking algorithm. The system can be programmed to:

• Track sun position based on time and location

• Respond to light sensors

• Log environmental data

• Communicate via WiFi/Bluetooth

Notes

• PETG is recommended for outdoor durability and UV resistance

• Ensure all electronic components are properly insulated

• Consider adding waterproofing for outdoor use

• The turntable can be adapted for different panel sizes