Self-Steering Solar Panel

The Autodynamic Flexible Circuit is a technology developed by the Aerospace Corporation . The product uses the concept of CTE mismatch to apply a force on a flexible plastic substrate (kapton) via heating an SMA wire laced through the substrate so that the plastic flexes as directed. 
The goal of this project was to determine whether the the AFC technology can be used for solar applications. The aim was to create a steering actuator that could turn a solar panel to follow the sun. 
The difficulty was in developing a new mode of actuation that would implement a twist rather than a fold. 

Highlights:
Redesigned SMA (muscle) wire holding cutouts, resulting in improved robustness, eliminated need for time-consuming and complicated securing procedures, and decreased supply waste
Designed and manufactured two-way-twist solar panel actuator, resulting in mechanical ability to follow sun and maximize solar panel productivity
Designed and manufactured solar panel stiffening rib, ensuring even and consistent capture of sunlight
Iterated and calibrated AFC production process, producing higher quality and longer-lasting prototypes with reusability potential