Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This research project focuses on the design and construction of a 2KVA power inverter. The inverter is a crucial component in modern power systems as it converts direct current (DC) from a battery or solar panels into alternating current (AC) that can be used to power household or industrial appliances. The 2KVA power rating is chosen to cater to medium-sized power needs, making it versatile for various applications. The design process involves selecting suitable components such as power transistors, capacitors, and control circuitry to ensure efficient power conversion. The inverter topology chosen for this project is a single-phase bridge inverter, known for its simplicity and reliability. The control circuit utilizes pulse width modulation (PWM) techniques to regulate the output voltage and frequency, ensuring stable power delivery. Construction of the inverter involves assembling the components on a printed circuit board (PCB) and properly connecting them according to the circuit design. Careful attention is paid to thermal management and protection circuits to ensure the inverter operates safely and reliably under different load conditions. Testing and simulations are conducted to validate the design and performance of the inverter. The completed 2KVA power inverter demonstrates efficient power conversion with minimal harmonic distortion and high reliability. It can be used in off-grid renewable energy systems, backup power systems, and other applications where reliable AC power is required. The inverter design can be further optimized for specific requirements or scaled up for higher power ratings. Overall, this research project provides valuable insights into the design and construction of a 2KVA power inverter, showcasing the importance of efficient power conversion technologies in modern energy systems. The inverter's performance characteristics and reliability make it a practical solution for various power supply needs, contributing to the advancement of sustainable energy technologies.

Thesis Overview

INTRODUCTION

BACKGROUND OF THE PROJECT

Electrical/Electronic Engineering is a very important element that cannot be neglected in the society as it is deeply sewn into the fabric of the society. It is an important element in homes to power household devices like electric bulbs, electric cooker, refrigerator, television set, etc. It also finds applications in various work places/offices to power devices like light bulbs, air conditioners, computers, etc. In fact electronic/electrical engineering is the foundation of careers of many people doing both white-collar and blue-collar jobs.

Despite the development, the power generation and distribution across the country is abysmally low and is very far from being enough. This is a problem that has provoked so many alternative power solutions to cater for the increasing power needs.

The popular solution is the generator set. There are sets of different sizes and ratings; they also use fuel like petrol or diesel. However the generating set has disadvantages like noise pollution, air pollution (it has led to the death of many people in Nigeria), and an expensive alternative power solution.

That is why an alternative, the power inverter is advocated for homes since the load is small compared to industrial setups. It must be noted however that a generating set is still advisable for an industrial setup despite its disadvantages. The power inverter solves most of the disadvantages of the generating set regarding cost of fuel, noise pollution, and air pollution.

The power inverter is an able alternative power supply source for homes with bad electricity supply from electricity utility companies.

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Faced with the problem of abysmal power supply from supply authorities, noise pollution, air pollution, cost of the popular alternative: generator sets, there is a need for a less noisy, pollution free and cheap solution to power problems in the houses of individuals and families in Nigeria.

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

AIM

The aim of this project is to design and construct a 2kVA power inverter with an inbuilt charging system that will be charged when there is supply from mains and supply the inverter when there is no supply from the mains.

OBJECTIVES

1. To design and construct an inverter that will be able to power essential loads in a house.
2. To design and construct an automatic switching circuit for changing power between the battery and the mains power supply.
3. To design and construct an electromechanical switch for altering power supply and cutting battery supply when it is low.
4. To design and construct an alarm circuit that beeps when the load on the iverter is beyond the inverter capacity.

SCOPE OF THE STUDY

The scope of this study is based on the design and construction of a 2kVA power inverter and its process of operation.

 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

With the obvious advantages of the inverter being a cheaper (in the long term) and cleaner source of energy, it is a device that can power essential loads in the absence of supply from power supply utilities in the country.