Hardware simulator for micro grid systems

Abstract

The research thesis; Hardware simulator for Microgrid systems, takes a brief look at the general definition of a Microgrid system and the constituent of a Microgrid system. Special attention is paid to the solar PV as a stand-alone Microgrid system. The characteristics of solar panels are studied. An interconnected software and an electronics hardware system that mimics a solar PV Microgrid system is then designed, simulated and built to operate within the solar PV voltage and current rages of 48V / 5A respectively. The software component is a LabVIEW graphical user interface (GUI) that allows one to enter the data sheet parameters of a specific solar panel as well as any assumed environmental conditions such as temperature and insolation. The block code then continuously calculates and displays the power output info expected of the solar panel. The built electronics hardware is a switch mode programmable buck converter (DC –DC power supply). The buck converter is powered by a multiple-output adjustable AC to DC power supply. The electronics hardware’s current output limit is controlled from and by the GUI through a national instrument data acquisition device; the NI USB 6009. The hardware’s power output across a load is displayed using an LCD, Watt’s up power meter and also on the GUI via the data acquisition device still.