Integration of an Energy Capacitor System With a Variable-Speed Wind Generator

This paper presents a system using an energy capacitor system (ECS) to smoothen the output power fluctuation of a variable-speed wind farm. The variable-speed wind turbine driving a permanent-magnet synchronous generator is considered to be connected to the ac network through a fully controlled frequency converter. The detailed modeling and control strategy of the frequency converter as well as variable-speed operation of a wind turbine generator system are demonstrated. Afterward, a suitable and economical topology of ECS composed of a current-controlled voltage-source inverter, dc–dc buck/boost converter, and an electric double layer capacitor (EDLC) bank is presented, including their control strategies. Exponential moving average is used to generate the real input power reference of ECS. Another novel feature of this paper is the incorporation of a fuzzy-logic-controlled reference signal adjuster in the control of the dc–dc buck/boost converter, in which the stored energy of the EDLC bank is utilized in an efficient way. Due to this controller, the energy storage capacity of the EDLC bank can be reduced in size, thus resulting in reduction of the overall cost of the ECS unit as well as decrease in irrepressible operations during high and low energy levels of the EDLC bank. Finally, extensive simulation results are presented that validate the effectiveness of the proposed system to smoothen the output power fluctuation of the variable-speed wind farm.      

PV powered smart charging station for PHEVs

A huge inrush of PHEVs is envisioned in the future. There is a growing risk that, this proliferation in the number of PHEVs will trigger extreme surges in demand while charging them during rush hours. To mitigate this impact, a smart charging station is proposed in which the charging of the PHEVs is controlled in such a way that the impact of charging during peak load period is not felt on the grid. The power needed to charge the plug in hybrids comes from grid-connected photovoltaic generation or the utility or both. The three way interaction between the PV, PHEVs and the grid ensures optimal usage of available power, charging time and grid stability. The system designed to achieve the desired objective consists of a photovoltaic system, DC/DC boost converter, DC/AC bi-directional converter and DC/DC buck converter. The output of DC/DC boost converter and input of DC/AC bi-directional converter share a common DC link. A unique control strategy based on DC link voltage sensing is proposed for the above system for efficient transfer of energy.     

A maximum power point tracking control strategy with variable weather parameters for photovoltaic systems with DC bus

In photovoltaic (PV) system, the most commonly used DC/DC converter is the basic buck or boost circuit to implement the maximum point power tracking (MPPT) due to their simple structure and low cost while there are some MPPT constraint conditions. By contrast, the conventional buck/boost DC/DC converter without MPPT constraint condition is seldom used because of its high cost or poor performance. To keep the advantages of these three DC/DC converters while overcoming their shortcomings, in this paper, the constraint conditions of capturing the maximum power point (MPP) of PV systems with direct-current (DC) bus are found out. Then, on the basis of this work, a MPPT control strategy with variable weather parameters is proposed. In this strategy, a new buck/boost DC/DC converter is proposed, which not only avoids the MPPT constraint conditions of basic buck or boost DC/DC converter but also overcomes the shortcomings of conventional buck/boost DC/DC converter. Finally, lots of simulated experiments verify the accuracy of MPPT constraint conditions, test the feasibility and availability of proposed MPPT control strategy, analyze the MPPT performance of proposed PV system and compare the output transient-state performance with conventional perturb and observe (P&O) method.     

An integrated simulation model for PEM fuel cell power systems with a buck DC-DC converter

Fuel cell powered systems generally have a high current and a low voltage. Therefore, the output voltage of the fuel cell must be stepped-down using a DC-DC buck converter. However, since the fuel cell and converter have different dynamics, they must be suitably coordinated in order to satisfy the demanded load. Accordingly, this study commences by constructing a MATLAB/Simulink model of a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) system comprising a PEMFC stack, an air/fuel supply system, and a temperature control system. The validity of the PEMFC model is demonstrated by comparing the simulation results obtained for the polarzation curves of a single fuel cell with the corresponding experimental curves. A model is then constructed of the DC-DC buck converter used to step-down the PEMFC output voltage. In addition, a sliding mode control (SMC) scheme is proposed for the DC-DC buck converter which guarantees a low and stable output voltage given transient variations in the output voltage of the PEMFC. Finally, a model is constructed of a DC-AC inverter with a pulse width modulated (PWM) control scheme which enables the PEMFC stack to supply the grid or power AC applications directly. Overall, the combined PEMFC/DC-DC buck converter/DC-AC inverter model provides a powerful and versatile tool for the design and development of a wide range of PEMFC power systems.     

Modeling and control of photovoltaic and fuel cell based alternative power systems

Photovoltaic (PV) systems and fuel cells (FCs) represent interesting solutions as being alternative power sources with high performance and low emission. This work presents a modeling and control study of two power generators; photovoltaic array and fuel cell based systems. An MPPT approach to optimize the PV system performances is proposed. The PV system consists of a PV array connected to a DC-DC buck converter and a resistive load. A maximum power point tracker controller is required to extract the maximum generated power. Based on Incremental Conductance (INC) principle, the idea of the proposed control is to use a Fuzzy Logic Controller (FLC) that allows the choice of the duty cycle step size which is used to be fixed in conventional MPPT algorithms. The variable step is computed according to the value of the PV power-voltage characteristic slope. The second working system comprises a controlled DC-DC converter fed by a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) and supplies a DC bus. The mathematical model of the PEMFC system is given. The converter duty cycle is adjusted in order to regulate the DC bus voltage. Obtained simulation results validate the control algorithms for both of studied power systems.     

Low voltage ride through capability enhancement of wind turbine generator system during network disturbance

The energy capacitor system (ECS), composed of power electronic devices and electric double layer capacitor to enhance the low voltage ride through (LVRT) capability of fixed speed wind turbine generator system (WTGS) during network disturbance, is discussed. Control scheme of ECS is based on a sinusoidal pulse width modulation voltage source converter and DC?DC buck/boost converter composed of insulated gate bipolar transistors. Two-mass drive train model of WTGS is adopted because the drive train system modelling has great influence on the characteristics of wind generator system during network fault. Extensive analysis of symmetrical fault is performed with different voltage dip magnitudes and different time durations. Permanent fault because of unsuccessful reclosing is also analysed, which is one of the salient features of this study. A real grid code defined in the power system is considered and LVRT characteristic of WTGS is analysed. Finally, it is concluded that ECS (20 MW) can significantly enhance the LVRT capability of grid connected WTGS (50 MW) during network disturbance, where simulations have been carried out by using PSCAD/EMTDC.     

Design and experimental validation of a high voltage ratio DC/DC converter for proton exchange membrane electrolyzer applications

This paper deals with hydrogen production via water electrolysis, which is considered the most attractive and promising solution. Specifically, the use of renewable energy sources, such as wind electric power generators, is hypothesized for supplying the electrolyzer, aiming to strongly reduce the environmental impact. In particular, micro-wind energy conversion systems (μWECSs) are attractive for their low cost and easy installation. In order to interface the μWECS and the electrolyzer, suitable power conditioning systems such as step-down DC-DC converters are mandatory. However, due to the requested high conversion ratio between the DC bus grid, i.e. the output of a three-phase diode rectifier connected to the output of the electric generator, and the rated supply voltage of the electrolyzer, the classic buck converter alone is not suitable. Therefore, a converter is proposed and designed, consisting of a buck converter, a full-bridge IGBT converter, a single-phase transformer, and a diode bridge rectifier; LC filters are also included between buck and full-bridge converters, and at the output of the diode bridge rectifier with the aim of reducing the ripple on currents and voltages. The components of the described physical system from the output of the three-phase rectifier up to the electrolyzer are then modeled assuming the transformer as ideal, and the model is employed for designing a PI-type controller. Experimental results are provided in order to demonstrate the effectiveness of the developed converter and its control for these applications.     

Neural network controller for a permanent magnet generator applied in a wind energy conversion system

In this paper a neural network controller for achieving maximum power tracking as well as output voltage regulation, for a wind energy conversion system (WECS) employing a permanent magnet synchronous generator, is proposed. The permanent magnet generator (PMG) supplies a DC load via a bridge rectifier and two buck–boost converters. Adjusting the switching frequency of the first buck–boost converter achieves maximum power tracking. Adjusting the switching frequency of the second buck–boost converter allows output voltage regulation. The on-times of the switching devices of the two converters are supplied by the developed neural network (NN). The effect of sudden changes in wind speed, and/or in reference voltage on the performance of the NN controller are explored. Simulation results showed the possibility of achieving maximum power tracking and output voltage regulation simultaneously with the developed NN controller. The results proved also the fast response and robustness of the proposed control system.     

Apparatus for supplying an isolated DC load from a variable-speedself-excited induction generator

This paper describes the design and laboratory testing of novel generation apparatus for supplying an isolated DC load from a self-excited induction generator operable at variable speed. The variable-speed generating apparatus consists of a self-excited induction machine, a controlled Graetz bridge rectifier, a voltage-boost power converter, and a control system. The induction generator supplies the rectifier. The voltage-boost power converter interfaces the variable output voltage of the rectifier to the fixed DC voltage required for the load. The rectifier is operated at levels of average DC current and voltage which control machine voltage to the rated AC voltage and which also draw the necessary power to supply the DC load. Performance is enhanced with respect to earlier apparatus in that both the DC voltage supplied to the load and the AC voltage on the machine are simultaneously controlled to fixed reference levels over broad operating ranges of load and speed     

基于DSVPWM的PMSG并联型GS-NSC研究

为提高九开关变换器直流侧电压利用率,减少开关损耗,采用一种不连续空间矢量脉宽调制（DSVPWM）,同时将九开关变换器用于直驱式永磁同步风力发电机（PMSG）网侧构成并联型网侧九开关变换器（GS-NSC）。在对并联型GS-NSC控制策略、故障穿越方案进行理论分析的基础上,建立PMSG并联型GS-NSC仿真模型,设计多种电网电压故障工况对其进行仿真研究。结果表明,在电网电压正常工况下,并联型GS-NSC可维持电网电流的正弦波特性。在电网电压跌落工况下,并联型GS-NSC可向电网注入无功电流辅助电网电压的恢复,并通过提升并网电流幅值减少卸荷电路的功率损耗,降低PMSG散热负担。在电网电压骤升工况下,并联型GS-NSC可动态分配直流母线电压,避免因直流侧过压而导致PMSG退出运行。     

Distributed energy storage system‐based control strategy for hybrid DC/AC microgrids in grid‐connected mode

This paper concentrates on the issues with the aim of providing a constant dc‐link voltage and desired power sharing for a distributed energy storage system (DESS)‐based hybrid microgrid under load variations. The hybrid microgrid which is consisted of PV system, lithium battery‐based storage system and a grid‐connected dc/ac converter are controlled by designing a controller based on the zero dynamics‐based mathematical equations of all used converters. Two buck and bidirectional buck‐boost dc/dc converters employed in PV and DESS systems, respectively, are responsible for damping the dc‐link voltage fluctuations, and also the grid‐connected converter is set to enhance the grid power quality and supply continuously the grid‐connected loads. The main contributions of the proposed control technique are simplicity and providing the simultaneous stable performance for both DC and AC sides under both DC and grid‐connected loads variations. Moreover, another contribution of the proposed control technique is providing accurate coordination in both steady‐state and dynamic conditions. To analyze the proposed controller, the dynamic operations of the converters in various operating conditions are evaluated. In this evaluation, several curves based on their zero dynamics are achieved, and their desired operations are completely investigated in different operating conditions. Simulation results in MATLAB/SIMULINK verify the proposed controller ability at reaching the desired zero dynamics and the stable performance of the proposed hybrid microgrid.     

Maximum power point tracker of wind energy conversion system

In this paper, a simple control strategy for an optimal extraction of output power from grid connected variable speed wind energy conversion system (WECS) is presented. The system consists of a variable speed wind turbine coupled to a permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) through a gear box, a diode bridge rectifier, a dc-to-dc boost converter and a current controlled voltage source inverter. The maximum power point tracker (MPPT) extracts maximum power from the wind turbine from cut-in to rated wind velocity by sensing only dc link power. The MPPT step and search algorithm in addition to the DC–DC and DC–AC converters PWM controllers are simulated using MATLAB-SIMULINK software. The obtained simulation results show that the objectives of extracting maximum power from the wind and delivering it correctly to the grid are reached.     

Energy management and control of a hybrid water pumping system with storage

This paper aims to define a control and management strategy for water pumping system which would be powered by a hybrid PV/diesel generator system with battery storage. The particularity of the proposed power management method is to ensure the water volume in need and to maximize the use of PV generator while limiting the use of the diesel generator. In order to capture the maximum power from PV generator, a fuzzy logic maximum power point tracking controller is applied. On the other hand, a PI regulator is used with a boost converter in order to adapt the voltage of the battery bank to the DC bus. The water flow of the pump is also controlled. The developed power management and control strategy has been implemented using SIMPOWER toolbox in Matlab/Simulink. The obtained satisfying simulation results prove the efficiency of the proposed solution that assures continuous supply of water and electricity.     

一种适用于BESS的交错并联双向DC/DC变换器

针对现有电池储能系统(BESS)双向DC/DC变换器(BDC)电压增益低和开关器件电压应力高等特点,提出一种适用于BESS的两相交错并联BDC。该储能系统(ESS)能有效结合Z源网络和交错并联结构的优势特性。详细分析了该ESS的工作原理、Boost和Buck模式,并推导出2种工作模式下的电压变化比。同时对该ESS两相交错并联BDC的带逻辑判断单元的载波移相控制策略进行了详细介绍。在Matlab/Simulink中搭建仿真实验模型,验证了该ESS各工作模式下的主要工作波形。仿真实验结果表明该系统具有电压增益高、开关器件电压应力低和各相电感之间能实现自动均流等优点。     

一种适用于BESS的交错并联双向DC/DC变换器

针对现有电池储能系统(BESS)双向DC/DC变换器(BDC)电压增益低和开关器件电压应力高等特点,提出一种适用于BESS的两相交错并联BDC。该储能系统(ESS)能有效结合Z源网络和交错并联结构的优势特性。详细分析了该ESS的工作原理、Boost和Buck模式,并推导出2种工作模式下的电压变化比。同时对该ESS两相交错并联BDC的带逻辑判断单元的载波移相控制策略进行了详细介绍。在Matlab/Simulink中搭建仿真实验模型,验证了该ESS各工作模式下的主要工作波形。仿真实验结果表明该系统具有电压增益高、开关器件电压应力低和各相电感之间能实现自动均流等优点。     

具有模式激活的储能双向DC-DC变换器的有限集模型预测控制方法

针对直流微电网中分布式发电机组输出功率不确定及负荷波动导致系统功率不平衡和直流母线电压不稳定的问题,提出了一种双向DC-DC变换器的模式激活有限集模型预测控制方法,预设了直流母线电压允许波动范围的上下限,利用范围比较器,根据母线电压实际值自动选择储能系统的工作模式,并实现其在不同模式之间的自由切换。仿真结果表明,提出的控制策略在三种模式切换的过程中,能够快速地稳定母线电压值,提高系统的电能质量并延长蓄电池的使用寿命。研究成果可用于指导工程实践。     

Design and performance analysis of the three-level isolated DC-DC converter with the nanocyrstalline core transformer

In this study, an isolated three-level DC-DC converter is proposed for high power and high conversion ratio applications such as fuel cells. The proposed system consists of a single phase three-level inverter, a medium frequency transformer and a diode rectifier unit. In the proposed system, a DC supply voltage is converted to a medium frequency AC voltage via a three-level inverter instead of the conventional two-level inverter. Since the three-level inverter generates an AC waveform with multiple steps, lower voltage harmonics and lower EMI levels than conventional two-level inverter are achieved. Thus, the three-level inverter provides higher efficiency value. The medium frequency transformer enables high voltage conversion ratio and provides galvanic isolation as well. The output voltage of the medium frequency transformer is converted to the DC voltage and thus the DC-DC conversion is achieved. According to simulation and experimental results, it is seen that the proposed DC-DC converter structure provides higher power density and higher efficiency values than conventional system.     

Multivariable control algorithm for laboratory experiments in wind energy conversion

Advanced experimentation with wind energy conversion systems is described. The real time multivariable control of a wind turbine is designed for investigation of theoretical concepts and their physical implementation. The control system includes a speed controller and a disturbance estimator for enhanced robustness of the control system. In order to provide students with deeper understanding of wind energy and energy extraction, a maximum power point tracking algorithm is developed and integrated into the control system. The multivariable control system is implemented in a small wind turbine laboratory system. A power electronic interface is based on two DC–DC converters: a buck converter for control of the speed and a boost converter controlling the load voltage. Experimental results demonstrate effectiveness of the multivariable control system for a wind turbine providing maximum power extraction. The experiment can be reconfigured for teaching various control concepts to both undergraduate and graduate students.     

Adaptive fuzzy control with an optimization by using genetic algorithms for grid connected a hybrid photovoltaic–hydrogen generation system

The integration of significant amounts of renewable-storage hybrid power generation systems to the electric grid poses a unique set of challenges to utilities and system operators. This article deals with the designing methodology of an intelligent control based grid-connected a hybrid system composed of renewable energy source (RES) and storage system (SS). RES is a photovoltaic (PV) source and SS is a process of hydrogen transformation system (H₂TS) which composed of alkaline water electrolysis (AWE) for decomposition water by using the PV power, a tank used for gas storage and a proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell (FC) to transform the H₂ to the electrical energy. The interconnection of the grid with the power generation system (PGS) is ensured through using a DC/AC hysteresis converter and it can synchronize current with the grid voltage among an independent control of active (P) and reactive (Q) power through a possibility of the Q compensation. In the proposed system, three algorithms are applied; two used inside generation and the third is used inside the grid. Perturb and observe (P&O) maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control algorithm always finds optimal power in the PV generator. A simple cascade controls loop of DC-DC boost converter and operate the FC generator to ensure maximum power and to regulate the DC Bus voltage. In addition, adaptive fuzzy logic control (FLC) unit is developed to control the DC/AC inverter, with adopting an off-line optimization based on genetic algorithms (GAs) applauded for tune different issues as scaling factors of the FLC and PIDs gains of the PV and the H₂TS control loops. Simulated results prove a big success of the proposed controls of the grid connected the hybrid PV-H₂TS with good performance.     

Numerical modeling and analysis of PEMFC integrated with auxiliary power source

A numerical model is developed from a stationary proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) system comprising a PEMFC, a DC‐DC buck converter, an auxiliary power supply (a lithium battery and supercapacitor), and a DC‐AC inverter. The transient and steady‐state performance of the PEMFC system is investigated by means of Matlab/Simulink simulations. It is shown that a good agreement exists between the simulated polarization curve of the PEMFC and the experimental results presented in the literature. In addition, it is shown that the DC‐DC buck converter provides an effective means of stabilizing the output voltage of the PEMFC. Finally, the results confirm the effectiveness of the auxiliary power source in enabling the PEMFC to satisfy the peak load demand. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.