MPPT of a standalone wind energy conversion system using magnetostrictive amorphous wire speed sensor and fuzzy logic

This paper details the design and implementation of a Fuzzy Logic based controller for Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) of a case study standalone wind energy conversion system(WECS). A magnetostrictive amorphous wire speed sensor is used for rotational speed measurement to provide an inexpensive, fast and robust solution to speed measurement. The designed MPPT algorithm includes a peak detection feature and a self-tuning capability which makes it intelligent and generic. The designed fuzzy logic controller determines the appropriate duty cycle D that yields optimum speed for maximum power extraction from the WECS for various wind speeds. It then applies this D to the DC-DC boost converter to control the speed of rotation of the PMSG to track maximum power point curve. The designed system was implemented on a real case study wind turbine under controlled conditions. Experimental results show that the designed system was able to significantly increase the maximum electrical power extracted for varying wind speeds.