A novel scan pattern for reconfiguration of partially shaded photovoltaic arrays for maximum power extraction

Abstract

Reconfiguration plays an indispensable role in augmenting the output of the photovoltaic (PV) array under partial shading conditions. Various reconfiguration schemes have been proposed in the literature to disperse the shade in partially shaded PV arrays. Nevertheless, most of these schemes can be employed only for less-rated arrays, are not compatible with all array sizes, fails in effective shade dispersion over the entire array, and so forth. To over come these shortcomings, a calligraphy-based diagonal scan pattern is pro posed to reconfigure the PV array to improve the row currents of the PV array thereby reducing the mismatch between them. The superiority of the proposed scheme is examined by comparing it with conventional Series-Parallel, Total Cross-Tied, and the existing image processing based-Chaotic Baker Map, Odd Even, and Odd-Even-Prime configurations. Besides, the system is extensively studied for various symmetrical 9 9, 8 8, 4 4, and unsymmetrical 8 6 PV arrays under 34 distinct shading cases with various performance indices. An experimental laboratory prototype model of a 4 4 PV array reconfiguration system is developed and studied under distinct shading condi tions. Subsequently, an inclusive economic analysis is also conducted, and it is noted that there is a notable enhancement in electricity units and revenue gen eration by executing the proposed reconfiguration scheme.