Multi-Input Single-Output Topology with BWO MPPT for Efficient Solar-Powered BLDC Motor Drives in SCVs

This paper presents a multiple inputs single output (MISO) DC-DC converter-based model of an energy efficient solar-powered brushless DC motor drive for small commercial vehicles. Energy efficiency of the system is ensured by extracting maximum power available from the solar photovoltaic (SPV) arrays at different working conditions using a novel Black Widow Optimization (BWO) based Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) algorithm. For smooth and reliable operation of the drive a battery bank is integrated to the system that operates in parallel with the SPV arrays to establish a constant dc bus using a bidirectional converter as an interface to the bus. The effectiveness of the system under varying scenarios of temperature and irradiance is validated through simulation results.