AC Output Research Articles

Improved Genetic Algorithm-Based Harmonic Mitigation Control of an Asymmetrical Dual-Source 13-Level Switched-Capacitor Multilevel Inverter

A single-phase multilevel inverter with a switched-capacitor multilevel (SC-MLI) configuration is developed to provide 13-level output voltages. An improved genetic algorithm (GA) with adaptive mutation and crossover rates is employed to achieve robust harmonic mitigation by avoiding local optima and ensuring optimal performance. The topology introduces an SC-MLI that generates AC output voltage at desired levels using only two capacitors, two asymmetrical DC sources, one diode, and 11 switches. This allows the inverter to use fewer gate drivers and, hence, increases the power density of the converter. A significant challenge in the normal operation of SC-MLI circuits relates to the self-voltage balance of the capacitors, which easily becomes unstable, particularly at low modulation indices. The proposed design addresses this issue without the need for ancillary devices or complex control schemes, ensuring stable self-balanced operation across the entire spectrum of the modulation index. In this context, the harmonic mitigation technique optimized through GA applied in this inverter ensures low harmonic distortion, achieving a total harmonic distortion (THD) of 6.73%, thereby enhancing power quality even at low modulation indices. The performance of this SC-MLI is modeled under various loading scenarios using MATLAB/Simulink® with validation performed through an Opal-RT real-time emulator. Additionally, the inverter’s overall power losses and individual switch losses, along with the efficiency, are analyzed using the simulation tool PLEXIM-PLECS. Efficiency is found to be 96.62%.

Grid-connected double-stage PV system with space vector PWM inverter and MPPT

Because of the increasing demand for non-conventional energy sources, photovoltaic system integration into the electrical grid is becoming more crucial. It is advised to employ a double-stage grid-connected PV system. This can be employed with the main parts boost converter, which helps to boost the DC output from the PV channels. And next one is the space vector pulse width modulation (SVPWM) inverter which can provide better harmonic performance and higher efficiency compared to traditional PWM methods. The SVPWM technique is employed to modulate the inverter output, generating a sinusoidal AC waveform that matches the grid frequency and voltage. By adjusting the pulse width to achieve effective and trustworthy grid integration. To maximize power extraction takes place by using maximum power point tracking (MPPT). The SVPWM inverter is crucial in converting DC power to AC power and enabling grid connection. Utilizing SVPWM allows exact control of voltage magnitude, frequency, and phase angle to provide high-quality sinusoidal AC output voltage. The power quality of the electricity pumped into the grid is improved by this precise management, which also ensures adherence to grid standards and reduces harmonic interference.

Manipulating carrier transport in static Schottky MSM structure via mechanical friction

Expanding the metal–semiconductor–metal (MSM) structure to encompass a broader range of passive networks is crucial for enhancing the understanding of carrier transport theory and broadening its application scope. Here, a mechanism to modulate the Schottky barrier using mechanical friction is proposed to generate electricity. The findings reveal that contact electrification occurs between the MSM structure and the friction medium, leading to charge redistribution within the system and the application of a bias voltage across the Schottky barrier via a conductive bridge. The conductive friction medium, whether liquid or solid, functions analogously to a conventional physical bias in a Schottky barrier diode, enabling the efficient regulation of the carriers. Aligning the electronegativity of the friction medium with that of the MSM structure, in accordance with the triboelectric sequence, enables the Schottky MSM structure to switch between AC and DC outputs, further validating the proposed carrier transport mechanism. Additionally, we showcase a constant generator composed of a parallel diode array to harvest energy from droplets excitation and the generation of a control signal through solid friction. This work advances the theoretical understanding of the Schottky MSM structure driven by mechanical friction and highlights its potential applications in passive networks.

Charge capturing effects of boron nitride nanosheets on enhanced triboelectric properties of polyimide nanocomposite films in a conductor-to-dielectric mode

Dielectric composite materials play a crucial role in the performance of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) by influencing charge storage and transfer capabilities. In this study, we investigate the influence of boron nitride nanosheets (BNNS) on the triboelectric properties of polyimide (PI)-based dielectric nanocomposite films within a TENG setup employing a conductor-to-dielectric configuration and a contact-separation mode. To achieve this, we manufactured PI/BNNS nanocomposite films containing 1–10 wt% BNNS with a thickness of ∼14.67 nm via a solution casting method, followed by thermal imidization. Thermogravimetric characterization revealed that the thermal stability of the nanocomposites improved with increasing BNNS content. Additionally, the triboelectric performance of the PI/BNNS films, used as the negative friction layer, was enhanced due to the electron-trapping capabilities at the BNNS-PI interface. Among the samples, the nanocomposite film containing 5 wt% BNNS exhibited the most significant triboelectric output, generating a voltage of ∼4.0 V and a current of ∼426.4 nA. Moreover, the triboelectric AC output generated by the TENG using PI/BNNS nanocomposite films was successfully rectified into DC signals and subsequently stored in microcapacitors. This capability highlights the significant potential of PI/BNNS nanocomposite films for energy harvesting and storage applications, further supporting their suitability for integration into advanced flexible energy devices.

Efficiency Ranking of Photovoltaic Microinverters and Energy Yield Estimations for Photovoltaic Balcony Power Plants

The market for microinverters is growing, especially in Europe. Driven by rising electricity prices and an easing in legislation since 2024, the number of mini-photovoltaic energy systems (mini-PVs) being installed is increasing substantially. Indoor and outdoor studies of microinverters have been carried out at Paderborn University since 2014. In the indoor lab, conversion efficiencies as a function of load have been measured with high accuracy and ranked according to Euro and CEC weightings; the latest rankings from 2024 are included in this paper. In the outdoor lab, energy yields have been measured using identical and calibrated crystalline silicon PV modules; until 2020, measurements were carried out using 215 Wp modules. Because of increasing PV module power ratings, 360 Wp modules were used from 2020 until 2024. In 2024, the test modules were upgraded to 410 Wp modules, taking into account the increase from 600 W to 800 W of inverter power limits, which is suitable for simplified operation permission (“plug-in”) in many European countries within a homogenised legislation area for such mini-photovoltaic energy systems or “balcony power plants”. This legislation for simplified operation also covers overpowered mini-plants, although the maximum AC output remains limited to 800 W. Presently, yield assessments are being carried out in the outdoor lab, which will take at least a year to be valid and comparable. Kits consisting of PV modules, inverters, and mounting systems are also being evaluated. Yield rankings sometimes differ from efficiency rankings due to the use of different MPPT algorithms with different MPP approach speeds and accuracies. To accelerate yield assessment, we developed a novel, simple formula to determine energy yield for any module and inverter configuration, including overpowered systems. This is a linear approach, determined by just two coefficients, a and b, which are given for several inverters. To reduce costs, inverters will be integrated into the module frame or the module terminal box in the future.

Understanding the Self-Heating Effects Measured With the AC Output Conductance Method in Advanced FinFET Nodes

Understanding the Self-Heating Effects Measured With the AC Output Conductance Method in Advanced FinFET Nodes

Modeling of Liquefied Natural Gas Cold Power Generation for Access to the Distribution Grid

Cold energy generation is an important part of liquefied natural gas (LNG) cold energy cascade utilization, and existing studies lack a specific descriptive model for LNG cold energy transmission to the AC subgrid. Therefore, this paper proposes a descriptive model for the grid-connected process of cold energy generation at LNG stations. First, the expansion kinetic energy transfer of the intermediate work mass is derived and analyzed in the LNG unipolar Rankine cycle structure, the mathematical relationship between the turbine output mechanical power and the variation in the work mass flow rate and pressure is established, and the variations in the LNG heat exchanger temperature difference, seawater flow rate, and the turbine temperature difference in the cycle system are investigated. Secondly, based on the fifth-order equation of state of the synchronous generator, the expressions of its electromagnetic power, output AC frequency, and voltage were analyzed. Finally, the average equivalent models of the machine-side and grid-side converters are established using a direct-fed grid-connected structure, thus forming a descriptive model of the overall drive process. The ORC model is built in Aspen HYSIS to obtain the time series expression of the torque output of the turbine; based on the ORC output torque, the permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMGSG) as well as the direct-fed grid-connected structure are built in MATLAB/Simulink, and the active power and current outputs of the grid-following-type voltage vector control method and the grid-forming-type power-angle synchronous control method are also verified.

Water-Triboelectrification-Complemented Moisture Electric Generator.

Energy harvesting from ubiquitous natural water vapor based on moisture electric generator (MEG) technology holds great potential to power portable electronics, the Internet of Things, and wireless transmission. However, most devices still encounter challenges of low output, and a single MEG complemented with another form of energy harvesting for achieving high power has seldom been demonstrated. Herein, we report a flexible and efficient hybrid generator capable of harvesting moisture and tribo energies simultaneously, both from the source of water droplets. The moisture electric and triboelectric layers are based on a water-absorbent citric acid (CA)-mediated polyglutamic acid (PGA) hydrogel and porous electret expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (E-PTFE), respectively. Such a waterproof E-PTFE film not only enables efficient triboelectrification with water droplets' contact but also facilitates water vapor to be transferred into the hydrogel layer for moisture electricity generation. A single hybrid generator under water droplets' impact delivers a DC voltage of 0.55 V and a peak current density of 120 μA cm-2 from the MEG, together with a simultaneous AC output voltage of 300 V and a current of 400 μA from the complementary water-based triboelectric generator (TEG) side. Such a hybrid generator can work even under harsh wild environments with 5 °C cold and saltwater impacts. Significantly, an optical alarm and wireless communication system for wild, complex, and emergency scenarios is demonstrated with power from the hybrid generators. This work expands the applications of water-based electricity generation technologies and provides insight into harvesting multiple potential energies in the natural environment with high output.

Multiple‐Input and Multiple‐Output–Based Cascaded Boost Hybrid Interlink Converter

ABSTRACTThe multiple‐input and multiple‐output (MIMO) DC–DC converters offer various advantages such as improved efficiency and reduced component count. However, the preference of these converters over other types of converters is dependent on the specific application and requirements. Various types of boost‐derived MIMO DC–DC converters are discussed in the literature. However, these converters are either nonisolated or isolated types. In the paper, a MIMO‐based cascaded boost hybrid interlink converter (CBHIC) has been proposed. The proposed converter includes four DC–DC boost converters that are supplied power by two input DC sources. The boosted DC output of these converters can be used independently or in a cascaded manner depending upon the requirement of the load. Further, the cascaded action of these four boost converters leads to the production of two high‐frequency AC outputs. By using bridge rectifiers and high‐frequency transformers, high‐frequency AC voltages are converted into DC. Therefore, two isolated DC output voltages can be achieved using CBHIC. The complementary operation of the cascaded boost converters results in reduction of source current ripples. The design, operating modes, and performance evaluation of the proposed CBHIC have been included in the paper. To validate the efficacy of the proposed CBHIC, a lab prototype of 400 W is prepared. The rms value of high‐frequency AC output voltage at each is isolated port is 141 V. The CBHIC exhibits an efficiency of 94.3 at 400 W. The operation of the converter during voltage control mode is further explored and its dynamic response is studies with the help of experimental results. The obtained simulation and experimental results validate the effectiveness of the proposed converter.

Analysis, design, and implementation of a simple switched‐coupled‐inductor boost DC‐AC inverter

AbstractThis paper presents a simple switched‐coupled‐inductor inverter (SCII), as well as completes the relevant analysis, design, and implementation, for efforts aimed at achieving boost DC‐AC inversion and strengthening closed‐loop regulation. In structure, the power‐part circuit consists of switched‐coupled‐inductor booster and half‐bridge DC‐link inverter, connected in cascade between supply and output to work for the AC output range as (n: turn ratio, : ratio cycle). As adopting , , , the output can be lifted to (i.e., DC 24 V to AC 100 Vrms, 60 Hz). In control, the control‐part circuit consists of phase generator and sinusoidal pulse‐width‐modulation (SPWM) block and generates driver signals of switches according to the feedback signal of for the needs of timing sequence (to different topologies) and output regulation/robustness (to various desired output/loading variation). The related chip circuit is designed via pre‐/post‐layout Cadence procedure and then practically is implemented on a real chip (D35‐106B‐E0027, TSMC 0.35 μm, 1500 × 1500 μm2, 3.3 V, 2.146 mW, 100 kHz max., 18S/B) via the assistance of TSMC and Chip Implementation Center (CIC). In theory, some relevant analysis and design will be discussed, such as modeling, conversion ratio, power efficiency, parameter selection, system stability, and control design. In implementation, several simulation/experiment cases via testing on the SCII's prototype circuit are illustrated to examine the efficacy of the proposed scheme.

Design of Microcontroller Based Power Supply Unit with Multiple Input and Output

This innovative project showcases a versatile power supply module, capable of delivering both AC and DC outputs, regardless of the input power source. This user-friendly device offers multiple output options from a single unit, catering to diverse power requirements. At its core, a microcontroller (8051) expertly manages the switch and relay configuration, ensuring seamless operation. Through rigorous simulation (Matlab/Simulink) and practical testing (prototype device), our results demonstrate the module's effectiveness in providing a reliable, multi-output power supply solution, enhancing convenience and efficiency.

Performance comparison between PID and Fuzzy logic controllers for the hardware implementation of traditional high voltage DC-DC boost converter

This research introduces a hardware implementation of DC-DC boost converter designed to elevate the DC voltage generated by renewable sources while effectively regulating it against line and load fluctuations for inverter application. The main objective is to boost the DC link voltage to the level of Vmax in the output AC voltage obtained from inverter circuits. This enables the inverters for transformer-less power conversion from DC to AC to reduce magnetic losses, size and weight of the inverter circuits used in the utility application. The proposed converter's topology and switching sequences play a crucial role in enhancing overall performance. Utilizing a Zero Current Switching (ZCS) technique, the converter efficiently recovers stored energy from the magnetics. The proposed converter attained the output voltage of 350 V at its current of 1A from the input voltage of 20 V at its current of 19 A. The ZCS technique and the topology of the converter enhances the efficiency to 92 %. The study employs traditional Proportional-Integral (PI) and Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) controllers for effective voltage regulation, analysing time domain specifications. Additionally, a Fuzzy logic controller is introduced as an alternative to PID controllers to compare their performance metrics, evaluating the optimization of the converter's transient and steady-state behaviours. The proposed converter is designed, simulated and their performance metrics are analysed using MATLAB for both with and without controllers. The step-time characteristics of the proposed converter with load resistance of RL = 500 Ω and an input voltage of Vi = 20 V has been determined and analysed. The PID system attained a rise time of 88.781 ms, an overshoot value of 9.341 %, and a steady-state error of 0.00043. The fuzzy system achieved a low-rise time of 10.624 ms, a low overshoot of 0.55 %, and a steady-state error of 0.0584. The hardware prototype of the proposed converter is implemented with a FPGA based PID and Fuzzy logic controllers for providing better voltage regulation and to improve the performance metrics of the converter. The simulation and experimental findings are contrasted, examined, and confirmed to ensure improved consistency in performance measures.

An improved modulation algorithm for the dual‐output six‐switch inverter with reduced switching frequency

AbstractThe six‐switch inverter has gained significant attention due to its ability to achieve dual AC voltage outputs with fewer semiconductor power devices. However, with existing pulse width modulation (PWM) algorithms, the switching frequency of the two middle‐position power devices is twice that of the other four power devices at the upper and lower ends. Therefore, this paper proposes an improved PWM algorithm for the six‐switch converter based on the unipolar modulation principle. The proposed algorithm can significantly reduce the switching frequency of the two middle‐position power devices. Research results indicate that, under optimal conditions, the switching frequency of the two middle‐position power devices is as low as the frequency of the AC output voltages, and in the worst‐case scenario, it is only half the carrier frequency. Consequently, the efficiency of the inverter is effectively improved. Additionally, analysis results suggest that, given the same switching frequencies of power devices, the modulation algorithm proposed in this paper for controlling the converter also results in lower Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) for the output voltages compared to traditional modulation algorithms.

Hybrid dual-mode high-output triboelectric nanogenerator for achieving alternating current/direct current collaborative output

The large-scale practical application of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) mainly depends on the limitations of output performance. On the basis of previous theory, this paper proposes a comprehensive strategy on the coupling of triboelectrification, corona discharge, volume effect, and space volume utilization of charge capture to enhance TENGs’ output. Thereby, a hybrid dual-mode high-output TENG (HDH-TENG) is proposed to efficiently harvest natural mechanical energy through a rotation-driven sliding-TENG (RS-TENG) and a magnetic-driven contact-separation TENG (MC-TENG). The simplified sliding-TENG with the combination of PU foam and vertical-radial electrodes achieves AC/DC collaborative output with charge density of 173.3 and 175.2 µC m−2, respectively. The simplified contact-separation TENG with the PU foam achieves AC output with charge density of 108.8 µC m−2. Furthermore, the integrated RS-TENG and MC-TENG achieve efficient collaborative output of DC with power density of 6.4 W m−2 Hz−1 and AC with power density of 128.6 mW m−2 Hz−1 through persistent directional sliding and contact separation, respectively, where a record-high constant current density output reached 1.9 mA m−2 Hz−1. The HDH-TENG can drive 6575 LEDs and 12 incandescent lamps, and continuously and stably power 52 hygrothermographs. This work further provides a new strategy for charge density enhancement of TENGs.

Buck–Boost DC–AC converter based on coupled inductors

In this paper, a single stage buck–boost DC–AC converter based on coupled inductors is presented for renewable energy and electric vehicle applications. The proposed topology works with only three semiconductor switches, two diodes, and three coupled inductors to transfer input DC voltage to a high gain or low gain output AC voltage. A coupled inductor is used instead of normal inductors, which will reduce core and size requirements. The sinusoidal pulse width modulation strategy is used in this paper for controlling the main switch. There are many merits in the presented topology, like high gain up to five times of input voltage, compact size, less number of components, which results in reducing the overall cost, reducing switching loss, and increasing the converter efficiency. The simulation study is carried out using MATLAB/SIMULINK to simulate the operation of the proposed converter. Also, an experimental setup is built up to examine the actual operation of the proposed converter. There is a good agreement between simulation and experimental results which increases the validation and confidence of the model.

Development and assessment of a floating photovoltaic-based hydrogen production system integrated with storage options

The integrated system approach utilized in the current study represents an innovative approach to harnessing solar energy through a floating photovoltaic-based integrated plant featuring a diverse array of energy storage options. As part of this research, a solar energy system integrating both floating and concentrating solar technologies was designed at the specified site. Despite the constraints presented by the cold temperature at the chosen location, particularly during the winter months when solar irradiation is restricted, strategies are employed, such as exploiting the high albedo effect caused by the freezing of the water body, optimizing the application of solar radiation, and assuring the system's resilience and energy efficiency. Floating photovoltaic and concentrated solar panels are integral components of this advanced system, which is supplemented by underground hot and cold storage units, underground hydro-pumped storage, a multi-effect desalination system with freshwater storage, a lithium bromide absorption cooling system, and an alkaline electrolysis system for hydrogen and oxygen storage. This comprehensive energy strategy includes diverse storage and production technologies. The thermodynamic analyses and assessments employing the Engineering Equation Solver and the System Advisor Model provide some quantitative performance evaluations. The study considers time-dependent operational characteristics, illustrates the water withdrawal rates, energy and exergy efficiencies of the heating space temperature, inverter efficiency, GHI irradiance, mass, and volume values of the heat transfer fluid in both hot and cold tanks within thermal energy storage, annual cooling generation over a year, power production, hydropower storage, and hydrogen storage over a year. The system's concentrated solar panels are projected to generate an annual AC output of 180.79 GWh, with a yearly water usage of 14,055 m3, while floating panels are predicted to provide 7000 kWh with a 0.85 performance ratio. The overall energy efficiency of the current system is determined to be 51.76 %, and the exergy efficiency is found to be 55.41 %, respectively. Optimizing energy efficiency, utilizing diverse storage solutions, and utilizing aquatic environments minimizes environmental impact, and time-dependent analysis enhances perceptions of performance throughout different times and circumstances.

Experimental Investigation of Modified Level Shift PWM with Capacitor Voltage Balancing on Single Phase Modular Multilevel Converter

Modular Multilevel Converters (MMCs) are a prominent voltage source converter topology that is rapidly gaining popularity in medium/high power/voltage applications, including high-voltage DC transmission systems and electric vehicle systems. However, MMC has the critical issue of unbalanced submodule capacitor voltages and circulating current. The MMC distributes DC-link energy evenly among its submodule capacitors, rather than storing it in a large capacitor like conventional voltage source converters. In MMC, the submodule floating capacitors interface the DC input voltage and AC output voltage. Therefore, capacitor voltages must be balanced. The existing capacitor voltage control struggles to handle many gate pulses at medium and high voltages. An effective control scheme is needed to solve the issues mentioned earlier. This paper presents a performance analysis of a 1-Φ MMC using a modified level shift PWM technique based on Universal Control Modulation Scheme (UCMS) and a sorting-based capacitor voltage balancing algorithm. MATLAB/Simulink software implements the proposed control method for a 1-Φ , seven-level MMC. The outcomes of the simulation demonstration reveal that phase disposition PWM offers less harmonic distortion of output phase voltage than the other level shift PWM techniques, such as phase disposition PWM and alternate phase disposition PWM. The simulation results also demonstrate the effective use of the sorting-based capacitor balancing algorithm to regulate the voltages of the submodule capacitors. Finally, the real-time GUI tool validates the simulation results using an experimental prototype of 1-Φ MMC with the dSPACE MicroLabBox 1202.

Off-grid system using a converter with multiple DC inputs and three-phase, multi-level AC output

Off-grid system using a converter with multiple DC inputs and three-phase, multi-level AC output

Analysis Of Battery LiFePO4 Pack Capacity As An Alternative Energy Source In Water Pump Shimizu PS-135 E

Electrical energy is a basic need for society and is a fairly economical resource that can be used for various activities. Human activities are supported by electrical energy. Electrical energy has important role in supporting all activities such as the industrial, commercial building, transportation and housing sectors. Water pump Shimizu PS-135 E is a type of water pump that is widely used in family activities, its function is to supply water from water sources (reservoirs, wells) for family needs such as bathing and washing. The pump relies continuously use of electrical energy, it means that, if this energy source runs out, the pump will not be able to operate automatically and ultimately. For this reason, in this research, the LiFePO4 type battery is used as an alternative energy source to overcome the above problems. The results of the analysis in this research show that to run the water pump for 1.5 hours a 42,000 mAh 12 Volt LiFePO4 battery is required which is arranged in a 4S - 7P manner and as a battery protector a 60 A Daly type BMS is used. Testing the load on the water pump until the battery cut time showed that the battery drain time was 1.3 hours, the battery condition was 20% with a voltage of 12.89 Volts. AC output voltage 230.4 Volts, current 1.145 A, power (P) = 195 Watts, Power Factor 0.72. The volume of water produced in 1.3 hours (78 minutes) is 2,182 liters.

Leveraging dynamic power benchmarks and CUSUM charts for enhanced fault detection in distributed PV systems

Faults in photovoltaic (PV) systems are common during their operational lifetime. Existing PV fault detection methods, which are primarily designed for large-scale PV fields, struggle with distributed systems due to their reliance on on-site weather sensors and inability to handle complex local shading effects on PV performance in the built environment. This paper presents a fault detection scheme specifically applicable to distributed PV systems that solely relies on monitored AC output and remote weather sources. Without requiring additional equipment or detailed information on the PV configuration and local shading conditions, the proposed method consists of two steps. First, historical monitoring data is used in a bootstrap fashion to develop machine learning models that establish baselines for normal PV output and corresponding estimation uncertainty. Then, a dynamic PV power benchmark constructed based on the 3-sigma rule, and cumulative sum (CUSUM) control charts are employed simultaneously to detect system malfunctions. Through experimental verification on actual distributed PV systems, the effectiveness of the proposed method is assessed for four categories of frequently observed malfunctions. The comprehensive experimental results indicate the considerable efficiency of the proposed sensorless method in detecting both serious PV malfunctions and minor faults with a severity as small as 4.2%.