The Islamia University of Bahawalpur

Department of Computer Science

SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS SPECIFICATION

(SRS DOCUMENT)

For
Diagnose Ease
By
Pervez Musharraf………...……………………………... S24NDOCS7M08009
Aqsa Naeem …….……….………………………….….... S24NDOCS7M08001
Saima Muneer ……………………….…………….….… S24NDOCS7M08018
Session Spring/Fall 2024 – 2026

Supervisor

Miss Marriam Ghaffar

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

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 Table of Contents
Revision History ................................................................................................................................................................... 1
Application Evaluation History ............................................................................................................................................ 2
Introduction .......................................................................................................................................................................... 3
1.1 Purpose ........................................................................................................................................................... 4
1.2 Scope: ............................................................................................................................................................. 5
Key aspects within the scope: ............................................................................................................................................... 5
Overall description ............................................................................................................................................................... 6
Overall Description .............................................................................................................................................................. 7
Product perspective .............................................................................................................................................. 7
Operating environment ......................................................................................................................................... 8
Design and implementation constraints ............................................................................................................................... 9
Requirement identifying technique .................................................................................................................................... 10
Requirement identifying technique .........................................................................................................................................11
Use of Tracking Techniques: .............................................................................................................................................. 11
Use case diagram ................................................................................................................................................ 11
Use case description: ............................................................................................................................................................14
Use Case 1: Start Tracking System .................................................................................................................................... 14
Use Case 2: Detect and Track Sun ..................................................................................................................................... 15
Use Case 3: Monitor and Evaluate Performance ................................................................................................................ 16
Use Case 4: Stop Tracking System..................................................................................................................................... 17
Functional Requirements.........................................................................................................................................................18
Functional Requirements.........................................................................................................................................................19
Functional Requirement X ..................................................................................................................................................19
FR-1: Photovoltaic Method ................................................................................................................................................ 19
FR-2: Power Generation ..................................................................................................................................................... 19
FR-3: Rotation .................................................................................................................................................................... 20
FR-4: Panel Rotation According to Sun ............................................................................................................................. 20
FR-5: User Control ............................................................................................................................................................. 20
Summary Table .................................................................................................................................................................. 21
Non-Functional Requirements ................................................................................................................................................22
Non-Functional Requirements ................................................................................................................................................23
1. Maintainability ............................................................................................................................................................... 23
2. Reliability ....................................................................................................................................................................... 23
3. Availability ..................................................................................................................................................................... 23

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 4. Usability ......................................................................................................................................................................... 23
5. Performance.................................................................................................................................................................... 24
6. Scalability (Optional for future scope) ........................................................................................................................... 24
7. Portability ....................................................................................................................................................................... 24
Project Timeline : ............................................................................................................................................................... 25

References .................................................................................................................................................................................26
References .................................................................................................................................................................................27

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Revision History
Name Date Reason for changes Version

1
Application Evaluation History
Comments (by committee) Action Taken
*include the ones given at scope time both in doc and
presentation

Supervised by
Miss Marriam Ghaffar

Signature

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Introduction

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1. Introduction

With the global energy crisis deepening and fossil fuel reserves diminishing, the demand
for sustainable and renewable energy solutions is greater than ever. Among various
renewable sources, solar energy is the most abundant and environmentally friendly option.
However, traditional fixed solar panels are limited in their efficiency due to their inability
to follow the sun’s movement across the sky.

To overcome this limitation, solar tracking systems have been developed. These systems
automatically adjust the orientation of solar panels in real-time to ensure maximum
exposure to sunlight throughout the day. By aligning the panels perpendicular to the sun’s
rays, solar trackers significantly increase the energy harvested compared to static systems.

This project focuses on designing and implementing a single-axis solar tracking system
using affordable and accessible components such as LDR (Light Dependent Resistors),
Arduino Uno, and servo motors. The system continuously detects the position of the sun
and adjusts the panel accordingly to optimize the solar energy captured.

This tracking mechanism is essential for improving the effectiveness of solar power
systems in areas with high sunlight availability, and contributes to cleaner, more
sustainable energy generation.

1.1 Purpose

The primary purpose of this project is to design and implement a cost-effective and
efficient solar tracking system that enhances the performance of photovoltaic (PV) panels.
The project aims to address the inefficiency of traditional fixed solar panels by introducing
a dynamic tracking solution.

The specific purposes of the project include:

 To develop a system that actively tracks the sun during daylight hours, improving
the alignment of the solar panel with the sun's position.
 To maximize energy output by keeping the panel perpendicular to the incoming
sunlight.
 To utilize LDR sensors to detect changes in sunlight direction and intensity.
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  To employ Arduino Uno and servo motors to control the motion and positioning
of the solar panel based on sensor data.
 To reduce the cost of solar electricity generation by improving the panel’s
efficiency with low-cost, accessible components.

The outcome of this project contributes to the advancement of renewable energy

technologies and offers a scalable model that can be adapted for both academic and
practical applications.

1.2 Scope:
The scope of this project is focused on the development and demonstration of the
mechanical and control system required to implement a single-axis solar tracking
mechanism. The project emphasizes enhancing the efficiency of solar panels using
intelligent orientation rather than redesigning solar panels themselves.

Key aspects within the scope:

 Design and assembly of a solar tracking system using Arduino, servo motors, and
LDRs.
 Development of an algorithm to interpret sensor input and control the panel's
rotation.
 Calculation and adjustment of the angle between the sunlight direction and the
solar panel surface.
 Testing and evaluation of the system’s performance in comparison to a fixed panel
setup.

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Overall description

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Overall Description
This section provides an overview of how the solar tracking system works, its background,
the environment where it will be used, and the limitations that were considered during the
design and development process.

Product perspective
Context and Origin of Solar Tracking Systems

Solar tracking systems have emerged from the broader field of renewable energy
technology, driven by the need to maximize the efficiency of solar power generation.
Below is an overview of their development and significance:

1. Increasing Demand for Renewable Energy

Growing concerns over climate change and environmental sustainability have led to
a global shift toward renewable energy sources. Among these, solar power stands
out due to its abundance, cleanliness, and inexhaustibility.
2. Limitations of Fixed Solar Panels
Traditional solar panel installations are typically fixed in one position—either on
rooftops or ground mounts. While simple and cost-effective, this approach does not
account for the sun's movement throughout the day, resulting in reduced exposure
to sunlight and lower energy output.
3. The Need for Efficiency Optimization
Solar tracking systems were developed to address the inefficiencies of fixed
installations. By automatically adjusting the orientation of solar panels to follow the
sun’s path, these systems can significantly boost the amount of sunlight captured
and, consequently, the overall energy yield.
4. Technological Advancements in Solar Tracking
Over time, solar tracking technology has advanced significantly. Early systems
were manual or mechanical, but modern trackers leverage automated control
systems, sensors, actuators, and sophisticated algorithms to operate with high
accuracy and minimal human intervention.
5. Interdisciplinary Research and Development
The development of solar tracking systems involves collaboration across multiple
disciplines, including engineering, physics, computer science, and environmental
science. Contributions from universities, research institutions, and private
companies have accelerated innovation through simulations, experimentation, and
field trials.
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 6. Commercialization and Market Expansion
As the technology matured, solar tracking systems transitioned from research
prototypes to commercially available solutions. Today, a wide variety of systems
are offered by manufacturers, catering to different applications—from small-scale
residential setups to large utility-scale solar farms.
7. Integration with Solar Energy Infrastructure
Solar tracking systems are integrated into broader solar energy systems, which
typically include solar panels, inverters, battery storage, and grid connections. Their
role is vital in enhancing energy production and improving the economic viability
of solar installations.
8. Global Adoption and Deployment
Solar tracking systems are now deployed across a wide range of geographical
regions—from sunny deserts to moderate climates. Their performance depends on
local conditions such as latitude, weather, and terrain, but they generally provide
substantial benefits in terms of increased energy generation and return on
investment.

Operating environment

The system is designed to work in outdoor environments where sunlight is available for
most of the day. It works best in:

 Sunny, open areas without shade (e.g., deserts, rooftops, farmlands).

 Regions like Saudi Arabia, where sunlight is strong and available almost all year.

It should be installed in a place where:

 The sun is visible from sunrise to sunset.

 There is no tall building, tree, or object blocking the sunlight.

The components used, like LDRs and Arduino, need to be protected from rain, dust, and
high heat, so the system may need a protective casing or housing.

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Design and implementation constraints

During the design and building of this solar tracker, some limitations had to be considered:

1. Single-Axis Rotation Only

The system can only rotate the panel from east to west (left to right) to follow the
sun’s movement. It does not tilt up or down to follow the sun’s height (which would
require dual-axis tracking).
2. Component Limitations
o The Arduino Uno has limited processing power and pins.
o The LDR sensors may not work well during cloudy weather or at night.
o The servo motor has a limited rotation range (usually 180 degrees).
3. Power Supply
The system needs a small power source (like a battery or USB power bank) to run
the Arduino and servo motor. It does not yet include its own power-saving or solar
charging setup.
4. Sensor Placement
The correct placement of LDRs is very important for accurate sun detection. If
they are not placed correctly, the panel may not move in the right direction.
5. Environmental Protection
Electronic components must be kept safe from rain, dust, and overheating. The
current design assumes a dry climate but will need extra protection in harsher
conditions.

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Requirement identifying
technique

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Requirement identifying technique
To build the solar tracking system, it is important to understand what the system needs to
do and how it will perform those tasks. To identify these requirements:

We analyzed how the sun moves throughout the day and how solar panels work. Based on
this, we noted what is needed to track the sun correctly and improve energy generation.

We tested how sensors (LDRs), microcontrollers (Arduino), and motors respond to

different light levels. This helped us decide how the system should react when light
changes.

Use of Tracking Techniques:

We considered two popular types:

 Single-Axis Tracking (used in our project): Moves the panel from east to west.
 Dual-Axis Tracking (more complex): Moves in both horizontal and vertical
directions.

Single-axis tracking is less costly and simpler, which makes it a good choice for small
projects. It was selected for this system based on a balance between performance and cost.

Use case diagram

Following actors will be the part of the system:

 User (The person who starts or stops the system.).

 System (Automatically handles sun detection and tracking.).

Detailed diagrams are as follows for each actor:

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Use case diagram for user

Figure 1: Use Cases for User

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 Flow Chart for System

START

User Start Tracking System?

System is
Active?

Track Sun Stop Tracking

Sun is
detected?

Adjust Solar Panel Keep Pervious Angle

END/STOP

Figure 2: Flow Chart Diagram for System/User

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Use case description:

Use Case 1: Start Tracking System

Table 1: Use Case Description of Starting Tracking System

Field Description
Use Case ID UC-01
Use Case Name Start Tracking System

Actors User, System

Description This use case allows the user to activate the solar tracking
system to begin detecting sunlight and tracking the sun.

Trigger User presses the power/start button or initiates the system via
software.

Preconditions The system is properly installed, powered, and connected.

Sensors are functional.

Postconditions The system begins monitoring sunlight and tracking the sun’s
movement.

Normal Flow 1. User starts the system.

2. System initializes all components.
3. LDRs begin monitoring light.

Exceptions - Arduino fails to initialize.

- LDRs not detecting light due to fault.

Assumptions The user is trained to operate the system and the environment
has daylight.

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 Use Case 2: Detect and Track Sun

Table 2: Use Case Description of Detecting and Tracking Sun

Field Description
Use Case ID UC-02

Use Case Detect and Track Sun

Name

Actors System

Description The system detects the direction of sunlight using LDRs and adjusts
the solar panel position to face the sun.

Trigger System is running and sunlight is available.

Preconditions The system has been started. Sensors and motors are functioning
correctly.

Postconditions Solar panel is positioned for optimal exposure to sunlight.

Normal Flow 1. LDRs detect sunlight intensity.

2. Arduino compares sensor data.
3. Servo motor rotates panel to align with the sun.

Exceptions - No sunlight detected (cloudy day or night).

- Servo motor failure.

Assumptions LDRs are placed correctly and not obstructed; sunlight is available.

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 Use Case 3: Monitor and Evaluate Performance

Table 3: Use Case Description of Monitoring Performance

Field Description
Use Case ID UC-03
Use Case Monitor and Evaluate Performance
Name

Actors Organization

Description Organization or authorized personnel monitor system data and

evaluate energy output and tracking accuracy.

Trigger System is running and logging performance data.

Preconditions Data logging or monitoring interface is available and active.

Postconditions Reports or logs are stored for analysis and improvement.

Normal Flow 1. Organization accesses monitoring system.

2. Views energy output, tracking logs.
3. Evaluates system performance.

Exceptions - Data logger malfunction.

- Inaccurate readings due to sensor misalignment.

Assumptions Monitoring tools are available and staff are trained to interpret
data.

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 Use Case 4: Stop Tracking System

Table 4: Use Case Description of Stopping Tracking System

Field Description

Use Case ID UC-04

Use Case Stop Tracking System

Name
Actors User

Description User shuts down the solar tracking system manually or via an
automated process.
Trigger End of the day, system maintenance, or user decision to stop the
system.
Preconditions System is currently tracking and functional.

Postconditions Panel stops moving; system enters idle/off state.

Normal Flow 1. User initiates shutdown.

2. System powers down sensors and motor.
3. Stops tracking activity.

Exceptions - Power failure during shutdown.

- System fails to stop tracking due to error.

Assumptions Safe environmental conditions for shutdown; user has access to

control panel.

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Functional Requirements

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Functional Requirements
Functional requirements define what the system should do and how it should behave in
specific situations. In this project, the goal is to enable the solar panel to detect sunlight and
adjust its position for optimal energy production.

Functional Requirement X

FR-1: Photovoltaic Method

Table 1: Show the functional requirement of Photovoltaic method

Aspect Detail
Input Sunlight falling on the solar panel.
Processing Photovoltaic (PV) cells inside the solar panel convert sunlight into DC
electricity using the photovoltaic effect.
Output Generation of direct current (DC) electricity as long as sunlight is
available.

Explanation:
The PV method involves using semiconductor materials (e.g., silicon) in the panel that
absorb sunlight and release electrons to generate electricity. This is the foundation of the
solar energy system.

FR-2: Power Generation

Table 2: Show the functional requirement of Power Generation

Aspect Detail
Input Aligned solar panel receiving maximum sunlight.
Processing The electrical energy is generated as the PV panel captures more
photons; voltage and current are produced based on light intensity.
Output Electrical power output (DC), which can be used directly or stored in
batteries (future enhancement).

Explanation:
Once the panel is properly aligned with the sun, maximum sunlight is absorbed, and power
output is optimized. Power generation efficiency depends on panel position, light intensity,
and panel quality.

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 FR-3: Rotation

Table 3: Show the functional requirement of Rotation

Aspect Detail
Input Analog signals from LDR sensors indicating uneven light intensity.
Processing Arduino compares LDR values to determine the direction of sunlight. If
LDR1 > LDR2, rotate panel left; if LDR2 > LDR1, rotate right.
Output Signal sent to servo motor to rotate the solar panel accordingly.

Explanation:
The system uses light intensity differences to rotate the panel toward the direction of the
brighter light. This process is repeated periodically for continuous tracking.

FR-4: Panel Rotation According to Sun

Table 4: Show the functional requirement of Panel Rotation to sun

Aspect Detail
Input Continuous sunlight position detected through multiple LDRs placed at
different panel edges.
Processing The microcontroller (Arduino) calculates which side receives more
sunlight and adjusts the panel angle to face that direction.
Output Servo motor turns the panel to align it perpendicular to the sun’s rays.

Explanation:
This requirement ensures that the panel is always oriented toward the sun throughout the
day. This real-time alignment is essential to improving solar efficiency by 30–40%.

FR-5: User Control

Table 5: Show the functional requirement of User Control

Aspect Detail
Input Manual input from the user to start or stop the system (e.g., via a switch
or button).
Processing Arduino detects the user command and either initializes or shuts down the
tracking system and resets motor positions.
Output System becomes active (tracking starts) or inactive (tracking stops). A
visual LED or message may indicate system status.

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Explanation:
The user needs to have control over when the system should operate. This ensures safety
during maintenance or when the system should not operate (e.g., during storms or
cleaning).

Summary Table

Table 6: Show the Summary of Functional Requirements

FR Function Input Processing Output
Code

FR-1 Photovoltaic Sunlight hitting PV cells convert DC electricity

Method PV panel light into electrical generation
current

FR-2 Power Sunlight Light absorbed, Electrical power

Generation (maximum converted via PV output (DC)
exposure) effect

FR-3 Rotation Light signals from Arduino compares Motor adjusts

LDR1 & LDR2 values and sends panel left/right
direction to motor

FR-4 Panel Rotation LDR values from Arduino calculates Panel aligned to
According to different sides best sun-facing sun via servo
Sun angle

FR-5 User Control User input Arduino starts/stops System

(switch/button) tracking program active/inactive,
based on user motor
command enabled/disabled

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Non-Functional Requirements

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Non-Functional Requirements

Non-functional requirements define the quality attributes and performance expectations

of the system. These are essential to ensure the system is usable, reliable, efficient, and
maintainable over time.

1. Maintainability

 Description:
The system should be easy to maintain with minimal effort. Components like sensors
and motors should be easily accessible and replaceable.
 Requirement:
o Code should be modular and well-documented.
o Components should be mounted for easy servicing.
o System should run for long durations with low maintenance needs.

2. Reliability

 Description:
The system must perform consistently under expected environmental conditions
(sunny, hot, outdoor).
 Requirement:
o The system must track the sun accurately without frequent errors or false signals.
o It should recover gracefully from minor issues like temporary light obstruction.

3. Availability

 Description:
The system should be available and functional whenever sunlight is present.
 Requirement:
o The tracking system should operate daily from sunrise to sunset.
o Uptime should be at least 95% during daylight hours.

4. Usability

 Description:
The system must be user-friendly and easy to interact with, especially during
start/stop operations.
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  Requirement:
o Basic control (like start/stop switch) should be simple to operate.
o Indicator LEDs or messages can provide feedback to the user (e.g., “Tracking
Active”).

5. Performance

 Description:
The system should optimize the solar panel's exposure to sunlight efficiently.
 Requirement:
o Tracking mechanism should adjust the panel every 10–15 seconds or based on
real-time sensor input.
o Should improve energy generation by 30–40% compared to a fixed panel setup.

6. Scalability (Optional for future scope)

 Description:
The design should allow future upgrades (e.g., dual-axis tracking, IoT integration).
 Requirement:
o System design should be modular so additional features like data logging or
cloud monitoring can be added later.

7. Portability

 Description:
The system should be lightweight and compact enough to be installed in different
outdoor environments.
 Requirement:
o The structure should be easy to move and install on rooftops, fields, or small
open spaces.

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Project timeline
Table 1: Show the Project Timeline
Tasks Duration
Requirement 12 days
Analysis 02 hours
Design 2 days
Mid Evaluation 05 hours
Development 2 days
Testing 1 hours
Final Evaluation 10 days

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References

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References
1. Akhil,K. (March 25, 2016). Solar Tracking System. Retrieved on October 3rd, 2019 from:
[Link]
2. Gajadharane, M. R., Gijare, N.A., & Joshi, M. H. (June, 2016). Design and development of
mechanical Solar Tracking System. Retrieved on October 7, 2019 from
[Link]
ar_Tracking_System
3. Paul, S., Kumar, D., & Basak, S. (2018). Dual Axis Solar Tracker. Retrieved on 8th October ,
2019 from [Link]

4. Mishra, J., Thakur, R. & Deep, A. (May, 2017). Arduino based dual axis smart solar tracker.
Retrieved on September 29, 2019 from [Link]
arduino-based-dual-axis-smart- [Link]
5. Sreega, R., Nithyananthan, K., & Nandhini, B. (July 02nd, 2017). Design and
Development of automated Solar Panel cleaner and cooler. Retrieved on 28 September 2019
from [Link]
6. John Connors (2017). Solar Vehicles and Benefits of the Technology. Retrieved on September
25, 2019 from
[Link]
es_and_the_Benefits_of_the_Technology

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