Synthesis, simulation and experimental verification of a maximum power point tracker from nonlinear dynamics

Abstract

A simple but robust maximum power point tracker (MPPT) is proposed, and derived from nonlinear dynamics. The maximum power point (MPP) inherently becomes the global attractor of the system, ensuring optimum operation under transient and steady state conditions. The control algorithm is first synthesised and implemented, supported by PSpice simulations and verified by experiments. The results confirm good tracking efficiency and rapid response to parameter changes. In addition, a two-dimensional approximate stroboscopic map was also found that adequately describes the system's global attractor and its fundamental dynamics at the MPP. This was confirmed experimentally from a return map featuring one of the state variables.