Algorithm for finding maximum power point tracking when shadowing or failure of solar panel photo cells on satellites using low orbits

Abstract

Solar cell shading or the failure of several photocells changes the output current-voltage characteristic. This paper discusses an algorithm for approaching and searching the maximum power generated on board the spacecraft, which is all-important for fast charging of the secondary sources of electrical energy since the time spent on the sunny side in low orbits are limited by time. Currently, algorithms for finding maximum power work in ideal cases, and simple and effective algorithms are needed in cases of solar panel shading or failure of photocell/cells. In this paper, a simulation of a solar panel in various conditions is carried out. An algorithm for constructing the output volt ampere characteristics of a solar cell and a solar panel is implemented. Experiments of various algorithms on real devices have also been carried out.