PV-Battery Fed Open-End Winding Induction Motor for Pumping Applications

This study investigates the use of dual DC power sources in an Electric Motor (EM) configured as an Open-End Winding Induction Motor (OEWIM) for a pumping application. In this design, the neutral point of the stator remains open, enabling power to be delivered from both ends of the stator windings. Compared to conventional configurations, this setup offers greater reliability, structural simplicity, and redundancy. The two DC sources integrated into this system serve different roles: the first is a photovoltaic (PV) cell that delivers clean and renewable energy during daylight hours, while the second is a battery that stores energy and provides supplementary power when solar output is unavailable or insufficient. Each source is linked to a three-phase, two-level inverter, and both inverters power the OEWIM from opposite sides of the stator winding. The proposed work introduces a power-sharing algorithm designed to dynamically regulate the power contribution from each energy source. This coordination ensures that the photovoltaic panels consistently operate at their Maximum Power Point (MPP). At the same time, the algorithm guarantees that the induction motor's (IM) power demand is satisfied. In particular, the algorithm integrates the Perturb and Observe (P&O) method to track and maintain the PV's MPP under changing environmental conditions, such as solar irradiance. The power sharing algorithm adjusts the roles of other energy sources to compensate for any mismatch between PV output and the IM’s power requirements, thus achieving stable system performance. This power-sharing algorithm is tested to confirm the effectiveness in maintaining consistent power distribution. Furthermore, the OEWIM is controlled using the Field Oriented Control (FOC) strategy.