This paper proposes a new technique for a single-direction solar tracker. The proposed design is based on a sun sensor system that controls the position of the solar panel. The sun sensors of the proposed design contain four photodiodes that are placed on the solar panel in specific angles and directions. The proposed system has several advantages such as the simplicity of implementing the system. This system combines the real-time tracking of sunlight and the low cost of applying a single-direction tracker. The prototyping experiment and Simulink MATLAB were applied to show the advantages of applying a single-direction tracker by following the angle of sunlight during the day. Real-time sun position and irradiation data were applied. The experimental results show that the proposed single-axis sun sensor PV tracker system generates around 20 more electric power than a fixed-structure PV system.
Microgrids have emerged as a crucial solution for addressing environmental concerns, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing energy sustainability. By incorporating renewable energy sources like solar and wind, microgrids improve energy efficiency and offer a cleaner alternative to conventional power grids. Among various microgrid architectures, DC microgrids are gaining significant attention due to their higher efficiency, reduced reactive power losses, and direct compatibility with renewable energy sources and energy storage systems. However, DC microgrids face stability challenges, particularly due to the presence of constant power loads (CPLs), which exhibit negative incremental impedance characteristics. These loads can destabilize the system, leading to oscillations and performance degradation. This paper explores various control strategies designed to enhance the stability and dynamic response of DC microgrids, with a particular focus on interleaved boost converters (IBCs) interfaced with CPLs. Traditional control methods, including proportional–integral (PI) and sliding mode control (SMC), have shown limitations in handling dynamic variations and disturbances. To overcome these challenges, this paper proposes a novel RST-based control strategy for IBCs, offering improved stability, adaptability, and disturbance rejection. The efficacy of the RST controller is validated through extensive simulations tests, demonstrating competitive performance in maintaining DC bus voltage regulation and current distribution. Key performance indicators demonstrate competitive performance, including settling times below 40 ms for voltage transients, overshoot limited to ±2%, minimal voltage deviation from the reference, and precise current sharing between interleaved phases. The findings contribute to advancing the stability and efficiency of DC microgrids, facilitating their broader adoption in modern energy systems.
10 April 2026 in Spectrochimica Acta Part A: Molecular and Biomolecular Spectroscopy