This thesis presents the topic of using the Four-Switch Buck-Boost topology as a DC-DC converter for the Energy Harvesting from Elliptical Machines Project. The project works toward providing a modular synchronous power generation system. Due to the dynamic and sporadic output voltage and power characteristics of the Precor elliptical machine, the ...
This thesis investigates a relatively new method for harvesting wind energy by using flexible piezoelectric polymers with additional sails to increase their ability to harvest wind energy. This paper also introduces a new topology deemed the “stacked buck” that allows for multiple inputs to a system with a single output. Derivations and analysis de...
This project uses the BP SX 150S solar panel to charge a 12 V battery. This battery powers an AIMS 400 W Modified Sine Wave Inverter to provide 120 V RMS AC power to a load of up to 40 W. Inverter efficiency was measured at different load conditions. A control circuit was implemented to prevent overcharging or over-discharging of the battery, by di...
Motor Operated Valves (MOVs) are electro-mechanical components used to isolate, divert, or introduce fluid flow. The use of microprocessor relays for actuator motor electrical protection within nuclear power plants is the focus of this thesis and is implemented by providing a new and enhanced protection scheme that provides the adequate conservatis...
This paper focuses on the design, integration, and construction of a system that harnesses energy from flowing water. The system will be used in conjunction with the DC House Project. The proposed system employs a DC generator and DC-DC Boost-converter to provide electricity to the DC House at approximately 200-300W. Results of the testing and meas...
Phones are now an integral component in the daily lives of people. Smartphones give access to movies, internet, and even books. This versatility and increased use can also lead to a shorter battery life. A phone with video viewing capabilities will be a heavy load on the unit’s battery. With phones utilizing 3G and 4G technology, even heavier deman...
As the world strives towards finding alternative sources of power generation, photovoltaic generation has become an increasingly prevalent alternative energy source on power systems world-wide. This paper studies the effects that incorporating photovoltaic generation has on the existing power systems and their power system protection schemes. Along...
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) are gaining increasing interest for both residential and commercial transportation applications. In PHEV design, energy storage system (EES) is a critical component which will impact the overall design efficiency, performance, cost and etc. This dissertation aims to design an advanced energy storage system f...
As developing nations continue to foster the development of their technologies and economies, industrialized nations have taken an active approach in providing green and sustainable alternatives for them to consider. Non-profit organizations like Engineers Without Borders holds sustainable international development as paramount to all international...
The Cal Poly Sustainable Power for Electrical Resources (SuPER) project is a solar power DC distribution system designed to autonomously manage and supply the energy needs of a single family off-the-grid home. The following thesis describes the improvement and re-design of a MATLAB Simulink model for the Cal Poly SuPER system. This model includes a...
