Session
Technical Session III: Advanced Technologies I
Abstract
Due to limited power availability and constraints imposed on satellite mass, volume, and available area for photovoltaic (PV) panels, high power conversion efficiency is an important goal in the design process of an electrical power source for microsatellites. In this research, we model, design, and build a photovoltaic based Electrical Power System (EPS) for a satellite to ensure the supply of maximum power and stable operation. This paper presents the results of our MPPT (maximum power point tracking) research. We describe the EPS power system boundary requirements used in our research. We also describe the design constraints used in our research that are typical to the microsatellite class missions such as extremely low power requirements, limited volume, and minimal, fixed point, processing capabilities. We describe our implementation approach based on proposed algorithms such as Integer Order Extremum Seeking Control (IO-ESC), and Fractional Order Extremum Seeking Control (FO-ESC). Comparison results for the different algorithms are presented as implemented in both the model and on the actual hardware. These new MPPT techniques offer higher conversion efficiency relative to the Perturb & Observe (PO) and other techniques conventionally used in satellite power supply systems.
Presentation Slides
Maximum Power Point Tracking Techniques for Efficient Photovoltaic Microsatellite Power Supply System
Due to limited power availability and constraints imposed on satellite mass, volume, and available area for photovoltaic (PV) panels, high power conversion efficiency is an important goal in the design process of an electrical power source for microsatellites. In this research, we model, design, and build a photovoltaic based Electrical Power System (EPS) for a satellite to ensure the supply of maximum power and stable operation. This paper presents the results of our MPPT (maximum power point tracking) research. We describe the EPS power system boundary requirements used in our research. We also describe the design constraints used in our research that are typical to the microsatellite class missions such as extremely low power requirements, limited volume, and minimal, fixed point, processing capabilities. We describe our implementation approach based on proposed algorithms such as Integer Order Extremum Seeking Control (IO-ESC), and Fractional Order Extremum Seeking Control (FO-ESC). Comparison results for the different algorithms are presented as implemented in both the model and on the actual hardware. These new MPPT techniques offer higher conversion efficiency relative to the Perturb & Observe (PO) and other techniques conventionally used in satellite power supply systems.
