DESIGN OF BI-DIRECTIONAL CHARGER FOR SOLAR ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Abstract

Growing concerns about environmental issues are leading many countries to take steps that allow for rational use of energy and a sustainable future. Improving system efficiency and the use of renewable resources are some of the issues that need to be addressed in order to reduce emissions. That is why the flow of electricity is attracting the attention of companies, countries and research teams, as an important step in addressing the negative effects of current energy use. With the growing popularity of electric vehicle technology it is also important to address the charging and equipment requirements. The combination of solar power and electric vehicle (EV) is key to greatly reducing our dependence on fossil fuels. Electricity comes from a variety of sources and it is important that electric vehicles are powered by renewable energy. Electric cars are becoming more popular and in the coming years we expect that almost anyone who owns a solar power system will install a solar charging station at home. Solar-powered electric cars in the interior building are also important for a sustainable future. Being able to transfer electricity from everyday cars or home systems to the grid can help support future energy needs. This thesis focuses on the symbiotic relationship between individual solar systems and solar powered vehicles and the power grid. It proposes bi-directional charging system that could take energy from the grid to charge the vehicle as well as transfer excess power back to the grid to help out the electricity demands. If such a system is implemented on a large scale with every individual solar vehicle owner using their excess power generated in their vehicles to power the grid, then solar vehicles could become a major power source for the power grids. The proposed system is simulated in MATLAB Simulink and artificial intelligence is used to improve system performance of such a system. Both artificial neural network control and traditional control and then compared and plotted.