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
Date
6-2023
Primary Advisor
Jason Poon, College of Engineering, Electrical Engineering Department
Abstract/Summary
This project considers the design, implementation, and testing of an open-source dc-dc converter for microgrid prototyping. Unlike conventional dc-dc converters that are proprietary and require specialist knowledge, and are usually designed for a single function, the proposed dc-dc converter will comprise of a programmable MCU and a Raspberry Pi (RPi) interface to allow less-skilled consumers to monitor and modify a power converting system. We will develop an open-source library that contains voltage control, current control, maximum power point tracking, and battery charge control profiles. Each library will be easy to implement through a GUI on the Raspberry Pi and will be controlled using an Atmega328 located on the power conversion unit. C++ and the Arduino IDE will be used for testing and will retain functionality in the finished project for more knowledgeable customers to edit the pre-set profiles. Moreover, the Pi will need to communicate with multiple converters and monitor their set points in applications where more than one dc-dc converter is necessary. The supporting hardware around the microcontrollers is a dc-dc converter, while the connection with the RPi and any external hardware will be open-source and custom designed to accommodate multiple converters on a single system. As a result, the integration of our dc-dc converter will provide a way to easily set up a microgrid system without the use of proprietary voltage converting hardware.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/eesp/578