Single sensor boost converter-based maximum power point tracking algorithms

Two new maximum power point tracking algorithms are presented: the input voltage sensor, and duty ratio maximum power point tracking algorithm (ViSD algorithm); and the output voltage sensor, and duty ratio maximum power point tracking algorithm (VoSD algorithm). The ViSD and VoSD algorithms have the features, characteristics and advantages of the incremental conductance algorithm (INC); but, unlike the incremental conductance algorithm which requires two sensors (the voltage sensor and current sensor), the two algorithms are more desirable because they require only one sensor: the voltage sensor. Moreover, the VoSD technique is less complex; hence, it requires less computational processing. Both the ViSD and the VoSD techniques operate by maximising power at the converter output, instead of the input. The ViSD algorithm uses a voltage sensor placed at the input of a boost converter, while the VoSD algorithm uses a voltage sensor placed at the output of a boost converter. © 2011 IEEE.

Self-similar organization of arrays of individual carbon nanotubes and carbon nanotube micropillars

It is well-known that carbon nanotube (CNT) growth from a dense arrangement of catalyst nanoparticles creates a vertically aligned CNT forest. CNT forests offer attractive anisotropic mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties, and their anisotropic structure is enabled by the self-organization of a large number of CNTs. This process is governed by individual CNT diameter, spacing, and the CNT-to-CNT interaction. However, little information is known about the self-organization of CNTs within a forest. Insight into the self-organization is, however, essential for tailoring the properties of the CNT forests for applications such as electrical interconnects, thermal interfaces, dry adhesives and energy storage. We demonstrate that arrays of CNT micropillars having micron-scale diameters organize in a similar manner as individual CNTs within a forest. For example, as previously demonstrated for individual CNTs within a forest, entanglement of small-diameter CNT micropillars during the initial stage of growth creates a film of entwined pillars. This layer enables coordinated subsequent growth of the pillars in the vertical direction, in a case where isolated pillars would not grow in a self-supporting fashion. Finally, we provide a detailed overview of the self-organization as a function of the diameter, length and spacing of the CNT pillars. This study, which is applicable to many one-dimensional nanostructured films, demonstrates guidelines for tailoring the self-organization which can enable control of the collective mechanical, electrical and interfacial properties of the films. © 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.