College - Author 1
College of Engineering
Department - Author 1
Electrical Engineering Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Electrical Engineering
College - Author 2
College of Engineering
Department - Author 2
Electrical Engineering Department
Degree - Author 2
BS in Electrical Engineering
College - Author 3
College of Engineering
Department - Author 3
Electrical Engineering Department
Degree - Author 3
BS in Electrical Engineering
College - Author 4
College of Engineering
Department - Author 4
Electrical Engineering Department
Degree - Author 4
BS in Electrical Engineering
Date
7-2026
Primary Advisor
Dale Dolan, College of Engineering, Electrical Engineering Department
Abstract/Summary
This project focuses on the design and validation of a general-purpose DC/DC power converter intended for use with photovoltaic (PV) solar modules operating under variable environmental and loading conditions. Solar panels exhibit significant variation in output voltage, current, and available power due to changes in irradiance, temperature, and operating point, making direct connection to downstream loads impractical. The proposed system addresses this challenge by providing a single, user-adjustable regulated DC output capable of both stepping up and stepping down the solar module voltage. The converter is designed to interface with solar modules rated between 50 W and 400 W, with nominal operating input voltages up to 60 V and continuous input currents of up to 12 A. To account for real-world photovoltaic behavior, including elevated open-circuit voltages observed in certain solar farm panels, the input stage is designed to tolerate voltages up to 90 V without damage, though regulation is not guaranteed beyond the nominal operating range. The output voltage is continuously adjustable from 5 V to 50 V, allowing compatibility with a wide range of DC loads without requiring panel-specific converter designs. Emphasis is placed on stable regulation, protection, and robustness across realistic operating conditions representative of practical solar applications. This system serves as a flexible front-end power interface for solar-powered applications, enabling consistent and controllable DC power delivery from diverse photovoltaic sources.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/eesp/738
Included in
Electrical and Electronics Commons, Electronic Devices and Semiconductor Manufacturing Commons, Power and Energy Commons