Abstract: The subject matter described herein includes methods, systems, and computer readable media for controlling orientation of a photovoltaic collection system to track apparent movement of the sun. According to one aspect, a method for controlling orientation of a photovoltaic collection system to track apparent movement of the sun using a photovoltaic-collection-system-derived tracking algorithm is provided. The method includes determining an initial orientation of a photovoltaic collection system. The method further includes automatically deriving, using output from the photovoltaic collection system as it tracks apparent movement of the sun across the sky caused by spinning of the earth on its axis and its orbit around the sun, a tracking algorithm for controlling orientation of the photovoltaic collection system to track the apparent movement of the sun.

Abstract: The subject matter described herein includes methods, systems, and computer readable media for controlling orientation of a photovoltaic collection system to track apparent movement of the sun. According to one aspect, a method for controlling orientation of a photovoltaic collection system to track apparent movement of the sun using a photovoltaic-collection-system-derived tracking algorithm is provided. The method includes determining an initial orientation of a photovoltaic collection system. The method further includes automatically deriving, using output from the photovoltaic collection system as it tracks apparent movement of the sun across the sky caused by spinning of the earth on its axis and its orbit around the sun, a tracking algorithm for controlling orientation of the photovoltaic collection system to track the apparent movement of the sun.

Abstract: Disclosed are photovoltaic collection systems, friction drives, and method for tracking the sun and avoiding wind damage without the use of complicated or expensive mechanical systems. In particular, disclosed is friction drive system for coupling a support beam supporting a photovoltaic collection assembly to a support pillar. The frictional drive system can include a plurality of wheels positioned for rotatably and pivotably coupling the support beam to the support pillar such that the support beam will slip with respect to the support pillar under application of a wind torque of a predetermined amount. Further, at least one motor can apply torques to the wheels for moving the support beam with respect to the support pillar.