Increase In Output Power Research Articles

Smart solar maintenance: IoT-enabled automated cleaning for enhanced photovoltaic efficiency

This innovative project aims to increase the effectiveness and user experience of solar panel systems by introducing a state-of-the-art dust and speck removal system. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, the system demonstrates a remarkable 32% increase in power output compared to dirty solar panels. The approach is characterized by its reliance on the universe as the system controller, reducing the need for manual intervention and minimizing the workforce required for panel cleaning. The proposed timed system utilizes water and wipers, facilitated by internet of things (IoT) technology, microcontrollers, and sensor modules for efficient and automated operation. An Android application provides user control and notifications about ongoing processes. The system’s adaptability for various settings is emphasized, offering a portable solution. The smart IoT based automatic solar panel cleaning ensures reliable performance, underscoring the project’s commitment to improve scalability, cost-efficiency, performance, integrity, and consistency.

Spectral characterization of a Cryo-Cooled CO laser operating with CO2 laser gas mixture

This study explores the emission spectra and performance characteristics of a cryo-cooled CO laser system operating with CO2 laser gas mixture under various operating conditions, viz., N2 free gas mixture, different coolant temperatures and in grating tuned configuration. The narrow operational window in case of N2 free gas mixture, increased output power and richer emission spectrum obtained with the addition of N2 gas indicates enhanced discharge stability and efficient excitation in presence of Nitrogen. The emission spectrum revealed shifting of the trapping levels towards lower vibrational quantum number with reducing coolant temperature and the same was also corroborated by theoretical calculations. No lasing was observed for vibrational levels V>15 which is attributed to the higher partial pressure of oxygen inherently present in the gain medium formed due to dissociation of CO2. The system lased on more than 20 transitions in grating tuned configuration with power exceeding 100mW on several lines. The presence of higher concentration of O2 in the discharge prevents carbon deposition − a common issue in CO lasers. This study underscores the significance of this unconventional CO laser system offering reliable operation in the 5 µm wavelength region without the usage of extraneous CO gas.

Multiple boundary layer suction slots technique for performance improvement of vertical-axis wind turbines: Conceptual design and parametric analysis

Vertical-axis wind turbines (VAWTs) are gaining attention for urban and offshore applications. However, their development is hindered by suboptimal power performance, primarily attributable to the complex aerodynamic characteristics of the blades. Flow control techniques are expected to regulate the flow on the blade surface and improve blade aerodynamics. In the present study, an effective active flow control technique, multiple boundary layer suction slots (MBLSS), is designed for VAWTs performance improvement. The impact of MBLSS on the aerodynamic performance of VAWTs is examined using high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics simulations. The response surface methodology is employed to identify the relatively optimal configuration of MBLSS. Three key parameters are considered, i.e., number of slots (n), distance between slots (d), and slot length (l), which vary from 2 to 4, 0.025c to 0.125c, and 0.025c to 0.075c, respectively. The results show that MBLSS positively affects the power performance and aerodynamics of VAWTs. Parameter n has the most significant effect on VAWT power performance and the importance of d and l is determined by tip speed ratios (TSRs). Tight and loose slot arrangements are recommended for high and low TSRs, respectively. The relatively optimal configuration (n = 2, d = 0.025c, l = 0.05c) results in a remarkable 31.02% increase in the average net power output of the studied TSRs. The flow control mechanism of MBLSS for VAWT blade boundary layer flow has also been further complemented. MBLSS can prevent the bursting of laminar separation bubbles and avoid the formation of dynamic stall vortices. This increases the blade lift-to-drag ratio and mitigates aerodynamic load fluctuations. The wake profiles of VAWTs with MBLSS are also investigated. This study would add value to the application of active flow control techniques for VAWTs.

Performance evaluation and economic analysis of integrated solid oxide electrolyzer cell and proton exchange membrane fuel cell for power generation

In order to generate clean electricity from thermal energy, a hybrid electrochemical system is conceptually developed by coupling the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) and solid oxide electrolyzer cell (SOEC). For evaluating the proposed hybrid system, firstly, the two subsystems are modeled numerically and then they are merged into an integrated SOEC-PEMFC system. Moreover, the SOEC-PEMFC is analytically modeled for further evaluation. The effects of important operational parameters are examined. The outcomes show that when the SOEC operating temperature increases from 823 to 1273 K, the efficiency increases from 18.7 % to 38 % and the net output power improves about 36 % while cost per unit of power of hybrid system decreases about 80 %. Furthermore, by increasing the PEMFC operating temperature from 323 to 348 K, the system net output power and efficiency increase about 16.7 % and 10 %, respectively, whilst the cost per unit of electricity decreases about 19 %. In addition by increasing operating pressure of system, the net output power and efficiency are also improved. The proposed system has maximum output power density of 3.9 kW.m−2 and maximum efficiency of 38 %. In addition, the SOEC-PEMFC system is compared with the previously studied proton exchange membrane electrolyzer cell-proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMEC-PEMFC) system. In comparison with the previous PEMEC-PEMFC system, the present system's cost per unit of power and efficiency are about 16 % and 17 % higher, respectively; while the output power density is about double that of the PEMEC-PEMFC system. Generally, because hydrogen-powered systems offer reliable operation from an economic and energetic perspective, the SOEC-PEMFC system represents a promising technological solution to the clean energy demands.

A 3.2 kW Single Stage Narrow Linewidth Fiber Amplifier Emitting at 1050 nm.

In this paper, we have demonstrated a narrow linewidth high power fiber laser emitting at a short wavelength of ~1050 nm. The fiber laser is based on a structure of master oscillator power amplification (MOPA) with an optimized fiber Bragg-grating-based laser cavity as the seed. Both stimulated Brillouin scattering (SBS) and stimulated Raman scattering (SRS) effects have been effectively suppressed by using a long passive fiber between the seed and the amplifier. Based on the fiber amplifier, we have ultimately boosted the narrow linewidth laser from ~40 W to 3.2 kW with a slope efficiency of 85.1% and a 3-dB linewidth of ~0.1 nm. The SRS suppression ratio of the laser is ~29.7 dB at maximum power. Due to our fiber mode control strategies, the beam quality always stays near-diffraction-limited while amplifying, and the measured M2 factor is ~1.4 at the maximum power. Further increase in output power is limited by the SBS effect.

High-performance biodegradable triboelectric nanogenerators based on hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and zinc oxide hybrid composites

The increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions has ignited strong interest in developing biodegradable Triboelectric Nanogenerators (B-TENGs), representing a paradigm shift toward eco-friendly power generation. Our research seeks to lead this transformative endeavor, aiming to address existing challenges and advance the field of B- TENG technology. We investigate a hybrid composite composed of Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) and Zinc Oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles, emphasizing sustainability and biodegradability. By optimizing the HPMC matrix, we increase power output while maintaining biodegradability and adjust the HPMC content to achieve a balance between performance and flexibility. Our results show significant improvements in TENG output, with the 1 % HPMC: ZnO composite delivering the highest performance: a maximum voltage of 39.8 V, a current of 4.38 μA, and a power density of 0.23 W/m². Additionally, the composite films display excellent biodegradability, fully degrading in water within 36 h, demonstrating their promise for sustainable applications. These groundbreaking advancements highlight the potential of biodegradable TENGs to transform energy harvesting, providing a sustainable solution across multiple industries and setting the stage for a greener future for generations to come.

Optimizing Droplet-Based Electricity Generator via a Low Sticky Hydrophobic Droplet-Impacted Surface.

Droplet-based electricity generators (DEGs) are increasingly recognized for their potential in converting renewable energy sources. This study explores the interplay of surface hydrophobicity and stickiness in improving DEG efficiency. It find that the high-performance C-WaxDEGs leverage both these properties. Specifically, DEGs incorporating polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) with carnauba wax (C-wax) exhibit increased output as surface stickiness decreases. Through experimental comparisons, PDMS with 1wt.% C-wax demonstrated a significant power output increase from 0.07 to 1.2Wm- 2, which attribute to the minimized adhesion between water molecules and the polymer surface, achieved by embedding C-wax into PDMS surface to form microstructures. This improvement in DEG performance is notable even among samples with similar surface potentials and contact angles, suggesting that C-wax's primary contribution is in reducing surface stickiness rather than altering other surface properties. The further investigations into the C-WaxDEG variant with 1wt.% C-wax PDMS uncover its potential as a sensor for water quality parameters such as temperature, pH, and heavy metal ion concentration. These findings open avenues for the integration of C-WaxDEGs into flexible electronic devices aimed at environmental monitoring.

Design and optimization of the radial inflow turbogenerator for organic Rankine cycle system based on the Genetic Algorithm

The backdrop of energy-saving and emission-reduction sets a higher demand for low-grade energy utilization which can be realized by Organic Rankine Cycle systems. A 50-kW radial inflow turbogenerator, the crucial heat conversion equipment, with aerostatic bearings for Organic Rankine Cycle system, is designed. It is optimized focusing on the performance of the turbogenerator which uses R245fa as the working fluid. The study employs a one-dimensional thermodynamic model, developed in MATLAB and bolstered by real-time data from Refprop, ensuring the model’s precision and dependability. On this basis, Genetic Algorithm is applied to optimize design parameters and significantly elevate the system’s efficiency, achieving circumferential efficiency of 85.29%. The turbogenerator demonstrates a rated bearing load capacity of 2.43 kN. The research delves into the influence of inlet temperature, inlet pressure, and rotational speed of turbogenerator on its performance. It reveals that an increase in both inlet temperature and inlet pressure lead to a decrease in isentropic efficiency and an increase in output power. The research also shows that an increase in the rotational speed contributes to increases in isentropic efficiency and output power.

MoSSe-graphene based sandwiched nanolayer hybrid as high-performance lithium sulfur-selenium (LiSSe) battery cathodes

Rechargeable lithium batteries have demonstrated highly promising storage of energy systems because of their advantageous characteristics such as high energy density, extended cycle life, increased output power, and improved safety. To meet the ever-increasing high energy demands for powering hybrid and electric vehicles, it is necessary to develop electrode materials that possess high capacity and excellent rate capability. Hence, this work focuses on a MoSSe-Graphene based sandwiched nanolayer hybrid electrode material (MoSSe-Gr) for efficient Lithium-sulfur-selenium batteries applications. The MoSSe-Gr was synthesized through the solvothermal route, and subsequent calcination of the material at 800 °C under an inert atmosphere. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-aray diffratometry (XRD), high-resolution-transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman shifts examinations reveal that graphitization of organic solvent from the precursor solution entrapped in the MoSSe interlayer spacing took place during calcination process, forming MoSSe-Graphene hybrid sandwich nanolayers. When employed as a cathodic material in a LiSSe battery, the hybrid sandwiched layers exhibited high-speed charging capability and extended cycle life. Specifically, the MoSSe-Gr material demonstrated a high-rate capability, delivering high capacities of 806.58/100, 668.42/500, 585.83/1000, 409.25/5000, and 284.16/10000 mAh/g/mA/g.

Optimization of cantilever piezoelectric harvester to triangular shape with material reduction using finite element analysis

The paper studies the piezoelectric output performance of a piezoelectric harvester with four piezoceramic layers, assessing if the piezoelectric material can be reduced. The shape optimization regards cantilevers with trapezoidal or triangular longitudinal sections, maintaining comparable electric response with the original rectangular structure. The piezoelectric material is subjected to maximum mechanical stress in the fixed constrained area, decreasing gradually down to null stress towards the free tip. It is worthwhile to study if the material reduction would result in an increased effectiveness in terms of voltage output per unit volume of piezoelectric material. The simulations conducted in COMSOL Multiphysics employ Structural Mechanics – Piezoelectric Devices module, in a Multiphysics approach through Piezoelectric Effect, coupling Solid Mechanics with Electrostatics. It was found that the electric response increases per unit volume of piezoelectric material in triangular configuration with material reduction. A comparable voltage output is obtained after reducing the amount of piezoceramic material towards the free tip, while using an inertial mass of the same value. Hence, the piezoelectric material is used more effectively in the case of triangular cantilever with material cutdown than the traditional rectangular shaped cantilever. The paper also addresses shape optimization while maintaining the same mechanical stress, studying the response when increasing the tip mass for the purpose. All the structures render an even more significantly increased power output for matching optimum load resistor.

A Comparison of Methods to Identify the Mean Response Time of Ramp-Incremental Exercise for Exercise Prescription

ABSTRACT Introduction: The oxygen uptake ( V ˙ O2) vs power output relationship from ramp incremental exercise is used to prescribe aerobic exercise. As power output increases, there is a delay in V ˙ O2 that contributes to a misalignment of V ˙ O2 from power output; the mean response time (MRT). If the MRT is not considered in exercise prescription, ramp incremental-identified power outputs will elicit V ˙ O2 values that are higher than intended. We compared three methods of determining MRT (exponential modeling (MRTEXP), linear modeling (MRTLIN), and the steady-state method (MRTSS)) and evaluated their accuracy at predicting the V ˙ O2 associated with power outputs approximating 75% and 85% of gas exchange threshold and 15% of the difference between gas exchange threshold and maximal V ˙ O2 (Δ15). Methods: Ten males performed a 30-W∙min−1 ramp incremental and three 30-min constant power output cycle ergometer trials with intensities at 75% gas exchange threshold, 85% gas exchange threshold, and ∆15. At each intensity, the measured steady-state V ˙ O2 during each 30-min test was compared to the V ˙ O2 predicted after adjustment by each of the three MRTs. Results: For all three MRT methods, predicted V ˙ O2 was not different (p = 1.000) from the measured V ˙ O2 at 75%GET (MRTEXP, 31 mL, MRTLIN, −35 mL, MRTSS 11 mL), 85%gas exchange threshold (MRTEXP −14 mL, MRTLIN −80 mL, MRTSS −32 mL). At Δ15, predicted V ˙ O2 based on MRTEXP was not different (p = .767) from the measured V ˙ O2, but was different for MRTLIN (p < .001) and MRTSS (p = .03). Conclusion: Given that the intensity is below gas exchange threshold, all model predictions implemented from the current study matched the exercise prescription.

Performance and economic analyses of a geothermal reservoir model coupled with a flash–binary cycle model

A reservoir model was coupled with a flash–binary cycle model to investigate the performance and economics of a geothermal system. The production temperature Tpro of the reservoir decreased with an increase in the operation time, which affected the net output power of the system; thus, a method for calculating the electricity production cost (EPCM) and payback period (PBPM) was developed. The net output power decreased with an increase in the operation time because of the effect of Tpro. This decrease resulted from the combined effect of a considerable decline and marginal increase in the net output power of a single-flash cycle (decline of 1278.86 kW) and an organic Rankine cycle (increase of 68.6 kW), respectively, with an increase in the operation time. For high flash pressure, the decreases in the output power, firs- and second-law efficiencies of the system (Wtot,net, ηtot,I, and ηtot,II, respectively) from the 1st to the 30th year of operation were 52.08 %, 34.53 %, and 24.53 %, respectively, with the percentage decrease in Wtot,net being greater than those in ηtot,I and ηtot,II. The system with a flash pressure of 800 kPa was discovered to achieve the best EPCM and PBPM values of 0.129 USD/kWh and 12.503 years, respectively.

Micro-structured lateral thermal lens for increased output power and narrowed beam divergence in kilowatt-class 9xx nm diode laser bars

Local temperature non-uniformity is a critical limit to power in large-area semiconductor lasers, playing a larger role than the conversion efficiency and temperature sensitivity in the most efficient modern devices. For the specific case of kilowatt-level edge-emitting diode laser bars, we demonstrate that laterally re-distributing current locally within each emitter using a customized micro-structuring of the electrical contact can flatten the thermal profile, based on the thermal design using COMSOL. The concept is demonstrated experimentally in adapted bars that contain eight broad-area emitters, each having wide (∼1100 μm) stripes and a 4 mm long resonator. Each emitter in the laser bar has an electrical contact layer that is electrically structured into parallel sub-contacts using implantation, essential to prevent lateral lasing, implemented here with a period of 29 μm. The width of the individual sub-contacts is narrowed in the device center and then monotonically increased toward the emitter edges to collect a higher proportion of heat at the edges, for a fivefold reduction in the thermal lens, despite a significant (20%) overall increase in electrical and thermal resistance. Two performance benefits are observed. First, the slope varies more slowly with average temperature, recovering (here) around half of the efficiency penalty from in-stripe temperature non-uniformity, and hence increasing the power conversion efficiency at 800 W optical output power by around 5%. Second, the lateral far field (95% power content) is narrowed by around 2° at 800 W optical output power, corresponding to a reduction of around half of the thermal contribution.

Experimental Study on Aerodynamic Characteristics of Downwind Bionic Tower Wind Turbine.

The vibrissae of harbor seals exhibit a distinct three-dimensional structure compared to circular cylinders, resulting in a wave-shaped configuration that effectively reduces drag and suppresses vortex shedding in the wake. However, this unique cylinder design has not yet been applied to wind power technologies. Therefore, this study applies this concept to the design of downwind wind turbines and employs wind tunnel testing to compare the wake flow characteristics of a single-cylinder model while also investigating the output power and wake performance of the model wind turbine. Herein, we demonstrate that in the single-cylinder test, the bionic case shows reduced turbulence intensity in its wake compared to that observed with the circular cylinder case. The difference in the energy distribution in the frequency domain behind the cylinder was mainly manifested in the near-wake region. Moreover, our findings indicate that differences in power coefficient are predominantly noticeable with high tip speed ratios. Furthermore, as output power increases, this bionic cylindrical structure induces greater velocity deficit and higher turbulence intensity behind the rotor. These results provide valuable insights for optimizing aerodynamic designs of wind turbines towards achieving enhanced efficiency for converting wind energy.

Influence of compression ratio on the performance characteristics of a spark ignition engine

In this study, the influence of the compression ratio on the performance characteristics of a gasoline engine was investigated in detail using COMSOL simulations. Four compression ratios — 8, 9, 10 and 11 — were investigated at different engine speeds between 1000 and 1800. The analysis focused on power output, braking performance and fuel consumption in order to decipher the complicated relationships between compression ratios and engine dynamics. The results showed a significant increase in power output with increasing compression ratio, highlighting the delicate balance required for optimal power generation. Braking power increased with higher compression ratios, indicating a potential improvement in braking performance. In addition, the study showed a correlation between increased fuel consumption and higher compression ratios, highlighting the need for strategic fuel-saving measures. These results contribute to the understanding of gasoline engine behavior and provide insights into the trade-offs that need to be made when adjusting the compression ratio. Recommendations include experimental validation, exploration of dynamic compression control, research into integrated braking systems, investigation of sustainable fuel strategies and a focus on multi-metric optimization. The observed increase in power output at higher compression ratios highlights an important aspect of engine optimization. Engineers and researchers need to carefully consider compression ratio adjustments to ensure optimal power generation while maintaining efficiency. This insight can guide the development of engines that strike an ideal balance between power and fuel efficiency.

Comparative analysis of single-axis solar tracker performance with and without reflector under various weather conditions

This research explores a sun tracking system for solar panels that affects the power output of the panels. To address this, a unidirectional sun tracking system is implemented to ensure the solar panels are perpendicular to the sun, thus optimizing solar radiation. Additionally, reflectors are integrated to capture more sunlight. This research aims to design the system of unidirectional sun tracking to enhance the power output generated by solar panels and compare its performance with stationary (static) solar panels. The results demonstrate that the system of sun tracking improves the power output of solar panels. However, when reflectors are used in conjunction with the sun tracking system, no significant increase in power output is observed. Moreover, solar panels equipped with the unidirectional sun tracking system exhibit a power increase of 52.06 Watts compared to stationary solar panels. This research indicates that employing a unidirectional sun tracking system with the addition of reflectors does not enhance power output but instead reduces it due to the increased temperature effect caused by the sunlight reflection from the added reflectors.

Biomimetic swallowtail V-shaped attachments for enhanced low-speed wind energy harvesting by a galloping piezoelectric energy harvester

Efficient low wind speed energy harvesting is pivotal in expanding the reach of sustainable wind power to regions with limited wind resources. This paper introduces an innovative approach to enhance wind energy harvesting efficiency in low wind speed environments through the development of a biomimetically inspired design featuring V-shaped attachments on a square bluff body. Drawing inspiration from the swallowtail, these attachments are engineered to manipulate airflow, creating an asymmetrical pressure field that significantly improves the vibration amplitude of the harvesting device. The proposed design is tested in wind tunnel experiments, demonstrating a 32 % reduction in cut-in wind speed and a significant increase in power output at the lowest tested wind speed of 1.7 m/s, compared to traditional designs. Computational fluid dynamics simulations further elucidate the mechanism behind the enhanced energy harvesting, highlighting the role of V-shaped attachments in generating stronger and more stable vortex shedding, crucial for efficient energy harvesting. The proposed attachments not only substantially reduce the cut-in wind speed of galloping but also significantly increase the device's power output, demonstrating the potential of this design for expanding the viability of wind energy in regions with limited wind resources.

Impact of wake steering on loads of downstream wind turbines at an above-rated condition

Wake steering strategies often seek to gain power at the expense of increased fatigue loads. Here, we investigate the feasibility of applying wake steering at an above-rated condition. In such a condition, the farm is operating at rated power, and thus, increased power output is not the goal. Instead, wake steering is considered in the context of load reduction. We perform a sweep of wind directions and yaw misalignment angles, ranging from negative to positive values. This approach allows us to obtain trends and identify asymmetries in turbine response for symmetric scenarios. We use a wind farm consisting of five aligned IEA Wind 15-MW reference wind turbines, and analyze trends related to the blade-root, low-speed shaft, and tower-base moments, both in terms of standard deviation and damage equivalent loads. We show that for any given fixed wind direction, the turbines can be yawed such that the fatigue loads are reduced. Reductions of up to 5% (depending on the component) in terms of standard deviation and damage equivalent loads can be achieved by negatively yawing the turbine. A negative yaw misalignment has shown to be the direction of larger improvements. Such results contrast those found for below-rated conditions, where a positive yaw misalignment is typically preferred. However, since load reduction is not uniform across all component loads, more study and consideration is required before operational recommendations can be made.

Optimizing Wind Farm Efficiency through Active Yaw Control: A Neural Network-Aided Game Theory Approach

This research investigates the potential of a game-theoretic-based Active Yaw Control (AYC) strategy to enhance power generation in wind farms. The proposed AYC strategy in this study replaces traditional look-up tables with a trained Artificial Neural Network (ANN) that determines the optimal yaw misalignment for turbines under time-varying atmospheric conditions. The study examines a hypothetical 3x2 rectangular arrangement of NREL 5-MW wind turbines. The FAST.Farm simulation tool, utilizing the dynamic wake meandering (DWM) model, is employed to assess both the power performance and structural load on the wind turbines. When tested with two different inflow directions and ambient turbulence (10%), the AYC strategy demonstrated a maximum increase in total power output of 2.6%, although it affected individual turbines differently. It also exhibits an increase in some structural loads, such as tower-top torque, while some components experience a slight reduction in load. The results underscore the effectiveness of the ANN-guided game-theoretic algorithm in improving wind farm power generation by mitigating the negative impact of wake interference, offering a scalable and efficient method for optimizing large-scale wind farm. However, it is essential to evaluate the overall impact of AYC on wind farm efficiency in terms of both Annual Energy Production (AEP) and structural loading under various atmospheric conditions.

Impact of rotational direction on wake replenishment mechanisms of counter-rotating paired vertical-axis wind turbines

Recent studies have shown that the placement of paired vertical-axis wind turbines (VAWTs) in close proximity is a promising approach to design efficient VAWT farm layouts, mainly due to the increased power output. This study aims to experimentally investigate the impact of the rotational direction of paired counter-rotating VAWTs on their wake characteristics and replenishment mechanisms through a quantitative analysis using the momentum balance equation. The results of this study enhance our understanding of the effect of rotational direction on wake dynamics of counter-rotating paired VAWTs and offer valuable insights for optimising the design of VAWT farm configurations.