A Hankel matrix reduced order SEPIC model for simplified voltage control optimization and MPPT

This study focuses on the realization of efficient solar power fed DC-DC Single Ended Primary Inductor Converter (SEPIC) using second order ACO (Ant Colony Optimisation) tuned PI (Proportional Integral) controller. Second order model of the DC-DC SEPIC converter is derived using Hankel Matrix method from the original fourth model to reduce the number of sensors used and to ease the controller design. PI controller parameters are derived from the second order model by using GA (Genetic Algorithm) based optimisation and ACO techniques. Statistical analysis shows that ACO yields better results when compared to GA. To harvest the maximum power from the Photo Voltaic (PV) panel, Incremental Conductance (IC) based Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) method is chosen due to its high tracking accuracy. Extensive simulation studies have been carried out by using MATLAB/SIMULINK software tool. Simulation results for varying irradiation, temperature and load conditions have been presented in this paper. To substantiate the simulation results, an experimental prototype model of 120 Watts controlled by C2000 Piccolo TMS320F28035MCU digital controller is set up. Results reveal that the proposed cascade control technique can provide regulated output voltage and 80-99% of MPPT simultaneously using a single stage non-isolated DC-DC SEPIC Converter.