An energy storage and rapid charge system using EDLC for the Solar Light Rail

Abstract

“The Solar Light Rail” is a proposed power supply method for a 100% renewable energy light rail system. Experiments using a prototype model were carried out in all four seasons in order to verify whether the proposed system can function effectively throughout the day. The primary electric double layer capacitor (EDLC) unit, with a breakdown voltage of 17.5 V and a capacitance of 171.4 F, is charged by solar panels. The secondary EDLC unit which has a breakdown voltage of 15.0 V and a capacitance of 100 F is mounted on the railcar and is charged rapidly by the primary EDLC. The railcar leaves and returns on a straight rail of 9 meters by charged energy, and the secondary EDLC is charged from the primary EDLC again. It was confirmed that the proposed power supply method was effective even in a climate with little or no sunshine, and also that it is necessary to raise the breakdown voltage and capacitance of the primary EDLC to ensure long-term operation after sunset.