This paper presents a method of analysis of performance of a photovoltaic array feeding a voltage-source-inverter (VSI) which feeds a three-phase induction motor.
The effect of the VSI / induction motor system on the photovoltaic array performance, as an unconventional DC voltage source, is investigated in depth. Two modes of
operation of the induction motor were considered. In the first mode a constant motor voltage to frequency ratio was assumed, and in the second mode a constant motor air gap flux was considered. The performance of the system is compared with the performance of a similar system but with a conventional DC voltage source. The performance characteristics of the system for both sources are investigated for different inverter frequencies, and loading conditions.
KEYWORDS: Photovoltaic arrays, Induction motor drives, Voltage-source inverters, Unconventional DC voltage source.