Energy Harvester MPP Tracking via Segmented Voltage Dividers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar energy harvesting systems face challenges in efficiently tracking the maximum power point (MPP) in low-power environments, particularly due to high power consumption and inaccuracies in existing algorithms like Perturb & Observe, Fractal Open Circuit Voltage, and Neural Network, which are not suitable for dynamic environmental changes.
Innovation Solution
An energy harvester system incorporating a current-voltage converter, voltage-PWM converter, analog multiplier, sample-hold circuit, α-generator, and fractional open-circuit voltage circuit that senses and calculates solar cell output voltage and current, generates PWM pulses, measures maximum output power, and redistributes charge using digital bits to track MPP effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional MPP tracking algorithms (P&O, FOCV, Neural Network) are used, then MPP tracking capability is provided, but power consumption is high making them unsuitable for low-power environments
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the voltage range into multiple intervals using voltage dividers (R1-R4) and corresponding switches (S1-S4). By dividing the measurement range into segments, the system can track MPP with lower power consumption while maintaining accuracy across the full voltage range.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs periodic MPP tracking measurements using controlled switching of the voltage divider network. The switches are activated in sequences to measure different voltage segments periodically, enabling accurate MPP detection while minimizing continuous power consumption.
2Use of energy by moving object
If FOCV method is used in low-power environment, then power consumption is reduced, but accuracy decreases when solar cell characteristics change with external environment
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts to changing solar cell characteristics by periodically re-measuring voltage segments and updating the MPP location. The switchable voltage divider network allows the system to adjust its measurement range and resolution based on environmental conditions, maintaining accuracy while keeping power consumption low.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the measured voltage segments and current measurements to determine the MPP location. By comparing power values from different voltage segments and using the relationship between open-circuit voltage and MPP voltage, the system accurately tracks MPP even when solar cell characteristics change due to environmental factors.
3Measurement precision
If full-range voltage measurement is performed continuously, then MPP tracking accuracy is maintained, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage measurement range is segmented into multiple intervals using resistive dividers and switches. Instead of continuously measuring the full range, the system activates only the necessary segments, reducing power consumption while maintaining the ability to track MPP across the entire voltage range when needed.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables wide-range tracking of MPP with low power consumption, accurately measuring and maintaining maximum output power in real-time, even under changing environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a solar cell that generates power using solar energy
Data Source
AI summary
An energy harvester is provided. The energy harvester includes a current-voltage converter, a voltage-PWM converter, an analog multiplier, a sample-hold circuit, an α-generator, and a fractional open-circuit voltage circuit.