A Modular, Peak Power Tracking Solar Array Regulator

Document Number: 1999-01-2448

Date Published: August 1999

Author(s):
Robert M. Button - NASA Glenn Research Center
Mark E. Liffring - Boeing Defense & Space Group

Abstract:
Two high-voltage, Series Connected Boost Regulators (SCBR) were developed to demonstrate the benefits of the SCBR topology for low Earth orbit communication satellites. The resulting breadboards had a power density of 1,200 W/kg and a measured efficiency of 95-99%. Several peak power tracking methods and algorithms were implemented to demonstrate the ability of the SCBR to peak power track a solar array. The peak power tracker derived maximum power at all times and reduced the number of sunlight battery discharges necessary. The breadboards also demonstrated several modularity techniques, which will allow a common SCBR module to be used in several applications. The breadboards were tested in an end-to-end, high-voltage test facility using high- fidelity solar array simulators, an actual NiH\d2 battery, and simulated constant power loads. Design details and test results are presented.

File Size: 207K
Product Status: In Stock

See other papers presented at 34th Intersociety Energy Conversion Engineering Conference, August 1999, Vancouver, BC, CANAD, Session: Aerospace Power Management

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