A simple maximum photovoltaic power tracking technique utilizing system inherent limit cycle phenomena

This paper proposes a new simple maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control scheme for a PV system without using conventional "hill climbing" optimum operating point searching technique. Although no information is needed on PV array, the generated output power is maximized by utilizing system inherent limit cycle phenomena occurring on equilibrium/nonequilibrium boundary of system power flow around the maximum power operating point. A parameter design procedure to determine operating period based on a theoretical model is presented. Experimental results using a solar array simulator and an actual solar array with 1.5 kW rating prove the validity and usefulness of the system.