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Triac based MK2 PV Controller by Calypso Rye



Calypso Rye writes:

Based on the standard VI sketch which uses calcVI() in EmonLib, I’ve had a system in place for the last couple of months which diverts surplus PV power to our immersion heater. This system has proved to be both effective and reliable, and I am most grateful for everyone who has helped me along the way. The main downside to this arrangement is that it requires an expensive item of third-party kit to distribute the power. (I know that others have found cheaper ways, but my Carlo Gavazzi unit cost me £70).

Other contributors to this forum have shown that a standard triac can be easily controlled by an Arduino. By using a zero-crossing detector such as the Motorola MOC3041, it should be possible for the Arduino to allocate mains cycles directly to the load rather than delegating this task to a separate device.

A Mk2 system of this type has been working in our garage for the last few days. The sketch and a schematic diagram are attached, its main features being:

- a comprehensive 'debug' mode which allows real world conditions to be simulated ;

- a continuous mode of operation, for both measurement and distribution of power;

- an "energy bucket" concept which gives precise control of surplus power;

- interleaved windows for measurement and generation, each only 20mS;

- a rapid response time to changing conditions (50mS);

- suitable timing for 'arming' a zero-crossing trigger device;

- a single LPF which determines the dc-offset of raw VI samples;

- a programmable safety margin for biassing import v. export;

- minimal calibration is required.

Read the full post on the forum here: http://openenergymonitor.org/emon/node/841 To engage in discussion regarding this post, please post on our Community Forum.