Design and accuracy assessment of a multi-input single ended primary inductor converter (SEPIC) for highly efficient output from hybrid sources of renewable energy

Abstract

Solar energy has long been considered the lowest-cost energy option all across the world. Due to various environmental factors, the PV Module is not self-sufficient in harvesting the maximum amount of solar energy. This is where our proposed topology stands out. In this paper, a hybrid topology of an off-grid energy-harvesting system (integrating Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Module with Bicycle Dynamo Generator) adopting a DC-DC multi-input-single-output (MISO) Single Ended Primary Inductor Converter (SEPIC) for isolated islands has been proposed. For boost mode operation, we constructed a conventional SEPIC-based SISO converter circuit and compared its performance to our suggested hybrid architecture of the SEPIC-based MISO converter system. The prototype of the suggested hybrid system was created following an optimal design technique for small-scale performance analysis. Our proposed MISO SEPIC circuit is intended to function at a practical input voltage of 12.1 V DC and provides an estimated output voltage of 53 V DC at the load side, with a 10W output power. To get the maximum voltage at the output end, the operating duty cycle for the proposed converter circuit is recorded as 81.49% with a gain of 4.4. From the hardware analysis and field-test data, we determine a 91.6% efficiency rate for the suggested prototype. A comprehensive and detailed investigation of the suggested topology has been carried out through software simulation using MATLAB/Simulink. While performing both the hardware and software analysis, different intermittence conditions, solar irradiance, and seasonal variance were also taken into account.