A recent study led by Srungarapati Keerthana from the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering at Universal College of Engineering and Technology in India has unveiled a promising innovation for the agricultural sector. This research, published in the International Transactions on Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, focuses on enhancing water supply for agricultural fields through an advanced motor drive system powered by renewable energy.
The core of this innovation lies in the integration of a Brushless Direct Current (BLDC) motor with an Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) controller. This combination enables efficient control of the motor, which is critical for operating water pumps used in irrigation. The system harnesses energy from solar photovoltaic (PV) cells, ensuring that the water pumps can operate effectively throughout the day without relying solely on the main electricity grid.
One of the standout features of this research is the implementation of bidirectional power flow between the renewable energy source and the load. This means that not only can the solar system power the pumps, but it can also feed excess energy back into the grid. “The PV system is able to get the maximum amount of power while simultaneously lowering the main grid and enabling consumers to run their motors and loads at their maximum efficiency throughout the entire day,” Keerthana explained. This dual functionality not only maximizes energy use but also enhances the overall stability and quality of the power supply.
From a commercial perspective, this technology presents several opportunities for the energy sector. As agriculture increasingly turns towards sustainable practices, the demand for efficient water management systems powered by renewable energy is likely to rise. Farmers could benefit from reduced energy costs and increased reliability in water supply, which is crucial for crop yields. Furthermore, the ability to feed excess energy back into the grid could provide an additional revenue stream for agricultural operations.
This research also positions itself as a solution to common issues such as high conversion costs and total harmonic distortion in power systems. By maintaining a good power factor and ensuring high-quality power delivery, the proposed system could significantly improve the operational efficiency of agricultural motors.
As the agricultural sector continues to seek sustainable and efficient solutions, innovations like the ANFIS-controlled BLDC motor drive could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of energy use in farming. The study by Keerthana and her team highlights the potential of combining advanced control systems with renewable energy sources to address critical challenges in agriculture.
For more information on this research and its implications, you can visit Universal College of Engineering and Technology.
