As the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) surges, the need for reliable and efficient EV charging stations has never been more critical. A recent study led by Surabhi Bagherwal from the School of Electronics Engineering at VIT-AP University in India proposes a groundbreaking method to enhance the stability and control of solar-powered EV charging stations. Published in IEEE Access, this research tackles the persistent challenge of DC bus voltage instability, a significant hurdle for integrating renewable energy sources like solar power with battery storage and grid connections.
Bagherwal’s innovative approach employs a second-order disturbance observer (DOB) designed to estimate and counteract both matched and mismatched disturbances affecting the DC bus. This is particularly vital as power sources fluctuate and load demands vary, which can lead to voltage instability and inefficient charging processes. “Our proposed method not only stabilizes the DC bus voltage but also enhances the overall reliability of the charging stations,” Bagherwal explains.
The research introduces an adaptive sliding mode control (SMC) scheme that effectively manages disturbances, ensuring that the charging stations can operate smoothly under varying conditions. To address a common issue in control systems known as chattering, the team developed a barrier function-based sliding mode control (BFSMC) approach. This innovative technique stabilizes the system within a predefined range, eliminating the need for prior knowledge of disturbance limits. “This capability is a game changer for the energy sector, as it allows for a more responsive and resilient charging infrastructure,” Bagherwal adds.
The robustness of this new control system has been validated through comparisons with traditional control strategies, such as PID and Lyapunov controllers. The results demonstrate that the DOB-based adaptive SMC outperforms these conventional methods, particularly in regulating DC bus voltage. This advancement could significantly impact the commercial viability of solar-powered EV charging stations, making them more attractive to investors and operators alike.
As the world moves towards a more sustainable future, innovations like Bagherwal’s research could play a pivotal role in shaping the energy landscape. Enhanced stability in charging stations not only improves user experience but also encourages the adoption of electric vehicles, thereby reducing carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. The implications extend beyond just technology; they promise a more sustainable and efficient energy economy.
For those interested in learning more about this research, the article can be accessed through IEEE Access, a journal that covers a wide range of engineering and technology topics. To explore further, you can visit VIT-AP University.