Solar energy harvesting EV roof design with enhanced SRM drive performance using advanced direct instantaneous torque control techniques

Abstract

This paper explores the integration of solar roof technology with electric vehicles by utilizing Switched Reluctance Motors (SRMs). We are designing a dynamic system model to run an electric vehicle motor at different conditions. This research examines the synergistic benefits of combining photovoltaic sunroof systems with the robust, cost-effective SRM drivetrain architecture. We employ a maximum power point tracking-based photovoltaic array to achieve maximum power while also using a Zeta converter to minimize voltage and current fluctuations, ensuring a smooth power supply. For different atmospheric conditions, such as irradiance and temperature, we consider constant temperature and variable irradiance in this paper. SRMs offer significant advantages for solar-augmented EVs; solar roof systems can extend the driving range by 25%–30% under optimal conditions, while SRMs efficiently handle the intermittent nature of solar power through their inherent torque-speed characteristics. Under no load to full load conditions, the speed should be accelerated to 4000 rpm in 1.5–2.0 s. This research contributes to advancing sustainable transportation solutions by leveraging renewable energy sources directly at the vehicle level while utilizing motors that align with resource-conscious manufacturing principles. By using these profiles, controllers can be designed for gradual acceleration, avoiding mechanical or electrical overstress during startup or abrupt changes in load. The advanced direct instantaneous torque control is capable of reducing the torque ripple by 8.8% at a rated load. With the solar roof connected, our suggested dynamic electrical vehicle model uses a Li-ion battery with a discharge rate of 0.0032%/s.