Solar energy-powered wireless charging system for three-wheeled e-scooter applications

Abstract

Wireless power transfer (WPT) is a remarkable charging technology that addresses the range limitations and complexity of light electric vehicles. This study presents a novel approach to a solar-powered WPT system designed for three-wheeled e-scooter applications. The proposed system offers compact, lightweight, and cost-effective solution with a ferrite-less structure and a series-series (SS) compensation topology, resulting in enhanced system efficiency and adaptability. The compact and efficient converters are designed to enhance performance and reduce system size. A Proportional-Integral (PI) controlled Perturb and Observe (P&O) maximum power point tracking (MPPT) method is implemented to optimize energy extraction from three solar panels. The design is validated through comprehensive simulations and demonstrates a superior dynamic response over the Incremental Conductance MPPT (ICM) method. Performance tests confirm the reliability of the experimental prototype, achieving a system efficiency of 88.5 % at 300-W output power over a 100 mm transfer distance under fully aligned condition. Comparative analyses with existing solar-powered e-cycle systems highlight the proposed design's superiority in efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and adherence to safety standards. The results indicate that the proposed design enhances sustainable urban transportation by reducing carbon emissions and decreasing reliance on fossil fuels, facilitating the wider integration of renewable energy sources.