Engineering Commons^™

An Analysis On Wildfire Mitigations Employed By Utilities In California, Evan Luu

Master's Theses

As climate change continues to worsen, environmental effects are felt by many people around the world. In California, some of its most damaging wildfires have been found to be started by utilities. As the state continues to suffer from worsening wildfire conditions, the utilities need to implement a variety of wildfire mitigations to help reduce the risk of wildfires that can affect the state and its residents. This paper analyzes the effectiveness of four mitigations employed across three California utilities and suggests potential ways for the mitigations to be used together. The technologies evaluated are covered conductor, rapid earth fault …

Efficiency Study Of A Hybrid Ac/Dc House, Eunice Dominique Solomon Santiago

Master's Theses

With the proliferation of residential-scale renewable energy sources and DC loads, it has become attractive to use residential DC electrical system that could offer benefits over the legacy residential AC electrical system. The Hybrid AC/DC house provides a sustainable alternative to preexisting residential electrical system by having both AC and DC buses. The DC bus facilitates the connection from DC sources to DC loads, whereas the AC bus interfaces AC sources to AC loads. The study develops the equations to calculate losses based on a model consisting of four main components: Multiple-Input Single-Output (MISO) converter, AC-DC converter, inverter, and DC-DC …

Parameter Measurement Of 0.33 Hp Synchronous Machine Using Itech Digital Power Supply, Andrew Kargol

Master's Theses

The classical methodologies for synchronous machine modeling provide a solid estimation for synchronous machine behavior but are limited in terms of accuracy due to the assumptions made in the modeling process. The equivalent circuit model developed by the classical approach breaks down the entire machine into a singular impedance component. This allows the model to be generated more quickly but limits its accuracy. In the pursuit of developing a more realistic model, this thesis outlines the parameter measurement of a Hampden SM-100 synchronous machine. In determining the SM-100’s experimental parameters, this thesis executes and analyzes new experimental approaches to synchronous …

Solar Farm Utilizing A Battery Energy Storage System, Hannah Nicole Bonderov

Master's Theses

According to the US Energy and Information Administration, between 2022-2023 60% of planned new electricity generation consists of solar farms with a battery energy storage system [1]. The demand for these paired systems has increased since batteries can be charged during the day with the energy captured from the solar farm then released to the customer in the evening during peak energy demand. This achieves peak load shaving which reduces the cost of electricity for the customer and is ecologically friendly.

This thesis aims to create an efficient solar farm with a battery energy storage system for a farmer in …

Current-Source Dc-Dc Converter For Fiber-Optic Communication Systems, Jissell C. Jose

Master's Theses

In this thesis, a proof of concept for a current-source DC-DC converter for powering sensors used in an underwater communications system is presented. The proposed converter steps down an input current of 0.9 A to 0.625 A, while maintaining an output voltage of 24 V and output power of 15 W. The complete steady-state analysis and design of the proposed converter in its single-stage form is also explained in detail. Performance evaluation of the proposed converter was carried out using LTspice. Results of the simulation demonstrate that the design was able to produce average output current of 0.639 A at …

Reliability Study Of Electrical Distribution System With Local And Interregional Bidirectional Centralized Electric Vehicle Charging Stations, Janine Gian Christii C. Darato

Master's Theses

In this thesis, a method was developed to evaluate the impact of bidirectional electric vehicle (EV) charging on power system reliability using Synergi Electric software. Load profiles, EV availability, EV state-of-charge (SOC) were important factors considered in this study. The analysis in this study is based on local and interregional vehicle-to-grid (V2G) implementation at different load points in the system. In general, local V2G implementation is observed to be more effective in improving system reliability over interregional V2G power flow. System Average Interruption Duration Index (SAIDI) and System Average Interruption Frequency Index (SAIFI) improvements were observed to increase with increasing …

Microgrid Laboratory Wind Energy Integration, Vincent Liang

Master's Theses

Cal Poly San Luis Obispo’s Electrical Engineering Department and the Power Energy Institute have developed a microgrid laboratory with various generators, loads, and protection systems over the past several years. To improve and make the Cal Poly microgrid laboratory more realistic, this thesis outlines the process of improving the EE microgrid setup by adding a wind energy generation system via an induction generator, excitation capacitors, and a protection relay. By adding an induction generator, the microgrid system becomes more resilient to sudden power fluctuations by maintaining a stable voltage and frequency when the microgrid is islanded. To test this, a …

Performance Loss Rate And Temperature Modeling In Predictive Energy Yield Programs For Utility-Scale Solar Power Plants, Katelynn M. Dinius

Master's Theses

The Gold Tree Solar Farm, designed by REC Solar, has a rated output power of 4.5 MW and began operation in 2018 to provide electricity to Cal Poly’s campus. Gold Tree Solar Farm site terrain consists of rolling hills and uneven slopes. The uneven typography results in interrow shading, requiring a modified tracking control algorithm to maximize power production. Predicting a utility solar field’s lifetime energy yield is a critical step in assessing project feasibility and calculating project revenue. The MATLAB-based predictive power model developed for this field overpredicted power in the middle of the day. The purpose of this …

Automation, Annunciation, And Emergency Safety Shutdown Of A Laboratory Microgrid Using A Real-Time Automation Controller (Rtac), Do Vo

Master's Theses

Over the last decade, microgrid deployments throughout the world have increased. In 2019, a record number of 546 microgrids were installed in the United States [1]. This trend continues upward to combat extreme weather conditions and power shortages throughout the country. To better equip students with the necessary skillsets and knowledge to advance in the microgrid field, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo's Electrical Engineering Department and the Power Energy Institute have invested resources to develop a laboratory microgrid.

This thesis sets to improve the laboratory microgrid's existing automation using the Schweitzer Engineering Laboratory SEL-3530 Real-time Automation Controller (RTAC). The improved …

Early Wildfire Detection With Line Sensors, Virginia Yan

Master's Theses

Over the last few years, wildfires have become more devastating to communities as the fires are inevitably destructive to many homes, businesses, and ecosystems. Frequent wildfires also pose a significant threat to power grids and nearby residents as they can damage transmission lines and other electrical equipment, which in turn can cause major power shutdowns. Especially in western U.S., severe drought conditions and weather variability cause residents to become more vulnerable to wildfire disasters as their safety is threatened. We are incompetent to control the wildfires effectively despite existing advanced technologies. Hence, an algorithm based on energy conservation and heat …

Field Testing The Effects Of Low Reynolds Number On The Power Performance Of The Cal Poly Wind Power Research Center Small Wind Turbine, John B. Cunningham

Master's Theses

This thesis report investigates the effects of low Reynolds number on the power performance of a 3.74 m diameter horizontal axis wind turbine. The small wind turbine was field tested at the Cal Poly Wind Power Research Center to acquire its coefficient of performance, C­_p, vs. tip speed ratio, λ, characteristics. A description of both the wind turbine and test setup are provided. Data filtration and processing techniques were developed to ensure a valid method to analyze and characterize wind power measurements taken in a highly variable environment. The test results demonstrated a significant drop in the …

Iot Camera System For Monitoring Strawberry Fields, Simon Schoennauer

Master's Theses

A wireless imaging system for monitoring strawberry fields provides enough quality image data for computer vision algorithms to make meaningful yield predictions. This report contains a design for a wireless sensor network modified with mesh networking techniques to extend coverage range and a solar energy harvesting system to improve sensor node lifetime. A two hop system with six nodes is implemented in a laboratory environment validating the communication systems integrity over an 800’ range. Moving from a primary battery system to solar energy harvesting increases the module lifetime indefinitely.

Boost Converter Inductor Sizing Effects On The Performance Of Mppt Algorithms, Alan Nonaka

Master's Theses

With solar power and other renewables set to take over the market in the coming decades, maximum power point tracking will be essential to optimizing power output. One underserved topic of research is the effect of inductor current ripple on performance of Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) algorithms. Many new topologies are focused on decreasing the ripple from PV source to increase efficiency and power output. However, not much has been done to show ripple degrading performance of MPPT algorithms. This study uses a boost converter topology to test the performance of constant duty cycle step Perturb and Observe (PO), …

Analysis And Design Of An Off-Grid Residential Power System, Christopher Rotsios

Master's Theses

This thesis aims to provide a recommended power system design for optimal efficiency, reliability, and cost in off-grid applications. The power system examined in this project is a residence in an off-grid community called Quail Springs that generates its energy from roof mounted solar panels. The existing system was analyzed to see what equipment can remain, what needs to be upsized, and what needs to be added to the system. Two power systems are considered for the residence: a fully AC power system and a hybrid AC/DC power system. Simulations were run in PSCAD to compare the efficiencies of the …

Cascaded Linear Regulator With Positive Voltage Tracking Switching Regulator, Brandon K. Nghe

Master's Theses

This thesis presents the design, simulation, and hardware implementation of a proposed method for improving efficiency of voltage regulator. Typically, voltage regulator used for noise-sensitive and low-power applications involves the use of a linear regulator due to its high power-supply rejection ratio properties. However, the efficiency of a linear regulator depends heavily on the difference between its input voltage and output voltage. A larger voltage difference across the linear regulator results in higher losses. Therefore, reducing the voltage difference is the key in increasing regulator’s efficiency. In this thesis, a pre switching regulator stage with positive voltage tracking cascaded to …

Multiple Input Single Output Converter With Maximum Power Point Tracking For Renewable Energy Applications, Kenneth K. Nguyen, Taufik Taufik

Master's Theses

In this thesis, a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) for multiple input single output (MISO) converter is presented such that power generated from multiple individual energy sources can be combined to deliver the maximum amount of power to a common resistive load. Typically, MISO converters will employ techniques that yield equal current sharing from each energy source. However, this may not be desirable since each source may be rated at different power ratings and/or may experience different operating conditions, preventing the system MISO converter to acquire the most available total power from the sources. Utilizing MPPT control would therefore be …

A Novel Arc Welding Power Supply With Improved Power Factor Correction, Benjamin H. Tan

Master's Theses

This paper presents the design and development of a novel Arc Welding Power Supply utilizing a modified two-switch forward converter topology. The proposed design improves the power quality by improving power factor to near unity and reducing total harmonic distortion. State space analysis of the proposed circuit showed that the circuit followed a boost-buck input output relationship. Simulation of the circuit was first implemented in LTspice to verify the functionality of the new topology. Hardware implementation of the proposed design was built on a scaled-down prototype for a proof-of-concept of the new topology. The prototype specifications were created for a …

Multiple Input Single Output Converter With Uneven Load Sharing Control For Improved System Efficiency, Kristen Y. Chan

Master's Theses

This paper presents the development and study of multiple-input single-output converter (MISO) for the DC House project that utilizes a controller to maximize the overall converter’s efficiency. The premise of this thesis is to create uneven load current sharing between the converters at different loading conditions in order to maximize the efficiency of the overall MISO converter. The goal is to find a proper ratio of current from each converter to the total load current of the MISO system to achieve the greatest efficiency. The Arduino microcontroller is implemented to achieve this goal. The design and operation of the MISO …

Cascaded Linear Regulator With Negative Voltage Tracking Switching Regulator, Ernest Lei

Master's Theses

DC-DC converters can be separated into two main groups: switching converters and linear regulators. Linear regulators such as Low Dropout Regulators (LDOs) are straightforward to implement and have a very stable output with low voltage ripple. However, the efficiency of an LDO can fluctuate greatly, as the power dissipation is a function of the device’s input and output. On the other hand, a switching regulator uses a switch to regulate energy levels. These types of regulators are more versatile when a larger change of voltage is needed, as efficiency is relatively stable across larger steps of voltages. However, switching regulators …

Performance Enhancement And Characterization Of An Electromagnetic Railgun, Paul M. Gilles

Master's Theses

Collision with orbital debris poses a serious threat to spacecraft and astronauts. Hypervelocity impacts resulting from collisions mean that objects with a mass less than 1g can cause mission-ending damage to spacecraft. A means of shielding spacecraft against collisions is necessary. A means of testing candidate shielding methods for their efficacy in mitigating hypervelocity impacts is therefore also necessary. Cal Poly’s Electromagnetic Railgun was designed with the goal of creating a laboratory system capable of simulating hypervelocity (≥ 3 km/s) impacts. Due to several factors, the system was not previously capable of high-velocity (≥ 1 km/s) tests. A deficient projectile …

Multiple Input, Single Output Dc-Dc Conversion Stage For Dc House, Jason Baltierrez

Master's Theses

n this thesis project, a proposed architecture for the multiple input, single output conversion stage for the DC House was designed, simulated, and tested. This architecture allows for multiple different input sources to be used to create a single higher power output source. The design uses a DC-DC boost converter with a parallelable output which has been demonstrated to allow increased total output power as a function of the number of input sources available. The parallelable output has been shown to distribute load amongst the input sources relatively closely to optimize the system. This approach is also desirable since it …

Smart Dc Wall Outlet Design With Improved Load Voltage Detection, Patrick Donovon Granieri

Master's Theses

A standard home in the United States has access to the 120V AC power grid for use with home appliances. Many electronics used at home are powered by a DC power supply, which loses energy in the conversion from AC power. The DC House project avoids any conversion between AC and DC by storing energy in batteries as DC power and supplying it directly to DC appliances. While AC systems feature a standardized output voltage, no such standard exists for DC systems. The Smart DC Wall Outlet solves this by automatically adjusting its output voltage to meet any required DC …

Design, Simulation, And Hardware Construction Of A 600 W Solid State Dc Circuit Breaker For The Dc House Project, Calin Matthew Bukur

Master's Theses

DC circuit breakers must be able to arrest overcurrent conditions to prevent electrical equipment and wiring from causing building fires or other hazards from occurring. With more DC renewable sourced structures such as Cal Poly’s DC House, an inexpensive and reliable protection system is necessary to ensure safe energy transfer to the loads. One method of protecting a system is preventing excessive amounts of current to be drawn by the load when the surrounding components are rated at a lesser value. DC circuit breakers act as a monitoring system and barely presents an effect on the voltage or power. With …

The Analysis And Study Of Power System Designs For Same Polytechnic College In Tanzania, Kevin Lum Hua

Master's Theses

The Mbesese Initiative for Sustainable Development (MISD) is a group aiming to help eliminate extreme poverty in Africa by creating educational opportunity. One project that the group is currently doing is to build Same Polytechnic College (SPC) in Tanzania. As part of the project, this thesis aims to study and analyze the electrical power system and distribution for the college. Based on the projected load profile of the college and high potential for solar generation in Tanzania, several different power systems utilizing local utility AC electricity and/or photovoltaic (PV) DC electricity are explored and simulated for their feasibility and performance. …

The Modified-Multiphase Boost Converter: Combined Inductors And Capacitors Topology, Zachary L. Eldredge

Master's Theses

In this work, a modified boost converter design has been implemented in a multiphase configuration with a condensed topology. The modified aspect of the design has already been proven to drastically reduce input current ripple by about 40% in a single-phase implementation. By placing two modified boost converters in parallel with interleaving main switches (multiphase), the input inductors and modified capacitors of the modified topology can be reduced to just one of each, lowering the number of components, size, and cost. Additionally, multiphase DC/DC converters lower input/output voltage and current ripples while delivering more power compared to single-phase converters. By …

A Modified Multiphase Boost Converter With Reduced Input Current Ripple: Split Inductance And Capacitance Configuration, Zoe M. Hay

Master's Theses

This thesis presents the simulation, design, and hardware implementation of a modified multiphase boost converter. Converter design must consider noise imposed on input and output nodes which connect to and influence the operation of other devices. Excessive noise introduces EMI which can damage sensitive circuits or impede their operation. High ripple current degrades battery lifetime and reduces operating efficiency in connected systems such as PV arrays. Converters with high ripple current also experience greater peak conduction loss and require larger components. A two-phase implementation of a modified boost converter demonstrates the input current filtering benefits of the modified topology with …

A Multiphase Modified Boost Converter With Reduced Input Current Ripple: Combined Capacitors, Omri Nissan

Master's Theses

The delivery of high power and smaller footprints through a non-isolated topology demands for the use of multiphase topology in DC-DC converters. Multiphase reduces the ripple observed on both the input and output waveforms; however, it may not be enough to connect to sensitive power sources such as renewable energy sources. A single-phase modified boost converter demonstrates the ability to acquire very minimal input current ripple by addition of passive components. The expansion to multiphase topology is the next logical step for higher power application while furthering the low input current ripple benefit. In this thesis, the multiphase modified boost …

Protection Against Ungrounded Single Phase Open Circuit Faults In 3-Phase Distribution Transformers, Higinio Ariel Montoya

Master's Theses

This thesis explores the impacts and behavior of 3-phase distribution transformers when subject to ungrounded single phase open circuit faults. A simple 3-phase system is modeled using MATLAB Simulink and operation under fault conditions are simulated and studied. Simulation results are confirmed via lab experimentation. Finally, a robust detection and protection method using neutral current injection (as proposed in industry literature) is built and demonstrated.

Electric utility operating experience has demonstrated that all too often, loads on 3-phase distribution transformers are not adequately protected against an ungrounded single phase open circuit fault (commonly called “single phasing”). This type of fault …

Protection, Automation, And Frequency Stability Analysis Of A Laboratory Microgrid System, Christopher Eric Osborn

Master's Theses

Due to increasing changes in the power industry, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo's electrical engineering department introduced a set of initiatives to adequately equip students with the skills and knowledge to interact with new technologies. Specifically, the department proposed a microgrid and power systems protection and automation laboratory to strengthen students' knowledge of microprocessor-based relays. This paper outlines a microgrid laboratory system that fulfills the initiative's goal and proposes a collection of laboratory experiments for inclusion in a new laboratory course at Cal Poly. The experiments provide students with practical experience using Schweitzer Engineering Laboratory (SEL) relays and teach fundamental …

Design And Construction Of 1800w Modular Multiple Input Single Output Non-Isolated Dc-Dc Converters, Angelo Miguel Asuncion Gallardo

Master's Theses

This thesis report details the design and construction of non-isolated DC-DC converters to create a Multiple Input Single Output (MISO) converter for combining multiple renewable energy sources into one single output. This MISO uses the four-switch buck-boost topology to output a single 48V from multiple nominal 24V inputs. The MISO converter implements a modular approach to deliver 1800W output power. Each module in the MISO is rated at 600W and they share the output power equally. Hardware results show that the converter produces 1800W of output power from three sources with 96.4% efficiency. Each module also demonstrates equal sharing feature …