Indian Journal of Science and Technology

Abstract

Background/Objectives: It is necessary to keep the photovoltaic panels cleaned regularly to gain the maximum power output. It is inexorable that things like bird droppings, dust, pollen, leafs and mud will collect and deposit on photovoltaic modules that reduces the efficiency of these panels, by as much as 30%. This research paper presents a design and development of an automatic cooling and dust control mechanism for increasing the conversion efficiency of photovoltaic panels. Methods/Statistical Analysis: The design consists of a wiper and water sprinkler mechanism connected to the solar panel through relay driver circuit and is interfaced with PIC16F72 microcontroller. The tracking of maximum power is done through incremental conductance MPP algorithm and the duty cycle of PWM output is controlled through Cuk Converter. Wiper and water sprinkler were run through motors and the driving source for motors is battery that is charged from the solar panel connected. The operation is controlled by programming PICF72 using PIC C-compiler. The experimental method involved finding the voltage and current readings of the panel output and comparing the efficiency in the power output before and after cleaning on timely basis. Findings: The experimental method involved finding the voltage and current readings of the panel output and comparing the efficiency in the power output before and after cleaning on timely basis. The wiper is programmed to move for every hour and water is sprinkled for every six hours. The results prove that by adopting Cuk Converter compared to other converters. The design also aims on providing an automatic mechanism which reduces a huge human effort and is cost effective. Results have proved that the conversion efficiency is improved up o 45%. Application/Improvement: The design also aims on providing an automatic mechanism which reduces a huge human effort and is cost effective. Results have proved that the conversion efficiency is improved up to 45%.
Keywords: Cuk Converter, Maximum Power Point Tracking, PIC16F72 Controller, Sprinkler Interface, Wiper Interface