PV Sys Proposal Bidirectional Converter

PV Sys Proposal

Bidirectional Converter for Residential Grid Connected PV System Using SPMC Topology

The proposed research will focus on the development and implementation of a Single Phase Matrix Converter (SPMC) for use in a standard residential grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) system. This will create a cost savings for the overall system, streamline operation, and simplify use of the system. The SPMC will allow a single switching unit to regulate the flow of electricity to the grid and to the battery in a typical PV system setup, providing the necessary bidirectional flow in a simpler manner than is currently available.

Overview of Previous Research

A number of engineering solutions have been proposed and implemented for the conversion and flow direction changes needed in a standard PV system, and typically increases in performance have been coupled with increases in the complexity of the solutions/systems installed (Seminar, 2011). Other systems are currently being research and in some cases applied in practical situations, however, that achieve high performance results with simplified converter/directional control setups or devices (Shiji et al., 2003; Zhang, 2008; Hamzah et al., 2006). Combined converter devices such as a boost&buckboost converter, allowed for bidirectional soft switching with a 97.1% forward power flow, demonstrating the potential for higher performance through simpler means (Shinji et al., 2003). A major problem with many attempts to simplify the control devices bidirectional conversions are the emergence of spikes or peaks in flow, which must be controlled or eliminated in order to operate efficiently; work in this area with technologies other than the proposed SPMC has provided valuable insight into some of the problems that might be faced as well as potential solutions (Zhang, 2008). Research into SPMCs themselves is still relatively scant, however simulations and limited experiments have suggested that their use has the potential to drastically simplify conversion and flow change achievement without undue efficiency loss (Hamzah et al., 2008).

Objectives of Research and Investigation

The primary objective of the proposed research is to develop a prototype of a bidirectional converter for use in residential grid-connected PV systems that incorporates SPMC technology. As part of this primary objective, a secondary objective is to design and implement control strategies to regulate a smooth bidirectional flow of power, controlling the system in an efficient and productive manner. Finally, in order to demonstrate success in the first two objectives, the research will ultimately aim to connecting the prototype to a residential PV system in order to validate and demonstrate the functionality and control capabilities of the device.

Research Methods