Simulation and Hardware Implementation of Incremental Conductance MPPT With Direct Control Method Using Cuk Converter

TLDR

The IncCond algorithm tracks MPPs precisely under rapidly changing atmospheric conditions. The study presents simulation and hardware implementation of an incremental conductance MPPT system with a direct control method for solar arrays. The system eliminates the PI control loop, uses a simplified control circuit, and is implemented with a Cuk converter, simulated in MATLAB/Simulink, programmed on a TMS320F2812 DSP, and tested on a laboratory photovoltaic panel. Experimental results show the system tracks MPPs accurately and rapidly without oscillation, demonstrating feasible and improved functionality.

Abstract

This paper presents simulation and hardware implementation of incremental conductance (IncCond) maximum power point tracking (MPPT) used in solar array power systems with direct control method. The main difference of the proposed system to existing MPPT systems includes elimination of the proportional-integral control loop and investigation of the effect of simplifying the control circuit. Contributions are made in several aspects of the whole system, including converter design, system simulation, controller programming, and experimental setup. The resultant system is capable of tracking MPPs accurately and rapidly without steady-state oscillation, and also, its dynamic performance is satisfactory. The IncCond algorithm is used to track MPPs because it performs precise control under rapidly changing atmospheric conditions. MATLAB and Simulink were employed for simulation studies, and Code Composer Studio v3.1 was used to program a TMS320F2812 digital signal processor. The proposed system was developed and tested successfully on a photovoltaic solar panel in the laboratory. Experimental results indicate the feasibility and improved functionality of the system.