PV Fuzzy Model Based on V-I Curves to be Implemented in an Intelligent Sensor

Due to the wide variety of factors that affect the performance of photovoltaic arrays, the design of intelligent monitoring systems is important. The data sheets of photovoltaic modules from manufacturers and the theoretical models of its performance constitute the bases to build intelligent monitoring systems. Regarding photovoltaic models, there is a wide literature using Shockley diode equation and other models as fuzzy logic. However, to build an intelligent sensor a simple model that can be implemented in small devices with low computing power capability is required. In this paper a proposal of a photovoltaic model using fuzzy logic that can be used to build an intelligent sensor is shown. The proposal uses the data sheets or V-I curves provided by manufacturers of photovoltaic modules. The fuzzy logic model response was compared to the Shockley diode model. Both models showed similar results, 1.6% of maximum error. The proposed methodology, in combination with real sensors, provides the information needed for obtaining a data fusion algorithm and for building an intelligent sensor, as presented in the block diagram. Physically it is possible to build a low-cost intelligent sensor for photovoltaic monitoring modules performance and to build an intelligent sensors network and monitor the performance of photovoltaic systems, which could be used to reach the aims of the Industry 4.0