Chapter Three: Design and Sampling
3.1 Introduction
This chapter outlines the methodology used to design, develop, and evaluate a small-scale
wind energy system intended to generate regulated 12V–24V DC output. The design process
involved selecting key system components based on performance criteria and integrating
them into a functional prototype. Sampling in this context refers to the collection of
performance data under different wind conditions to validate the system’s ability to deliver
stable voltage, regulate power output, and charge batteries efficiently.
3.2 System Design Overview
The proposed system is a compact, standalone small-scale wind energy conversion system
(SWECS) designed to generate and regulate 12V to 24V DC electricity. It is intended for use
in off-grid settings where centralized electricity is unavailable or unreliable. The system is
modular in nature and composed of both mechanical and electrical subsystems, which work
in tandem to harvest wind energy, convert it to electrical energy, and regulate it for storage
or direct use.
3.3 Design Considerations and Component Selection
The efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of any small-scale wind energy system
largely depend on the careful selection and integration of its components. Each part of the
system—from the rotor blades to the battery bank—must be selected to optimize energy
conversion, voltage regulation, and storage. This section describes the rationale behind
choosing each component used in the wind turbine system for generating regulated 12V to
24V DC output.
3.4 Prototype Assembly
The prototype assembly stage involved integrating the selected mechanical and electrical
components into a fully functional small-scale wind turbine system capable of generating
and regulating 12V–24V DC electricity. The design prioritized modularity, simplicity, and
ease of replication, using readily available materials and open-source hardware wherever
possible.
3.5 Sampling Procedure and Data Collection
The effectiveness of a wind energy conversion system can only be verified through
systematic testing and data collection under varying wind conditions. This section outlines
the sampling methods and measurement strategy used to evaluate the performance of the
prototype wind turbine, with emphasis on its ability to generate and regulate 12V–24V DC
power and successfully charge a battery bank.
3.5.3 Instrumentation and Tools
Parameter Instrument/Component Sampling Interval
Wind Speed (m/s) Cup Anemometer (Analog Every 10 seconds
Output)
Rotor Speed (RPM) Infrared Tachometer Every 10 seconds
Output Voltage (V) Voltage Divider + Arduino Every 10 seconds
ADC
Output Current (A) ACS712 Current Sensor Every 10 seconds
(Hall-effect)
Battery Voltage Voltage Divider (on Every 30 seconds
charging circuit)
Power Output (W) Calculated from V × I Every 10 seconds
Battery SOC (%) Estimated using coulomb Every 1 minute
counting
3.2.1 System Configuration Diagram
The figure below illustrates the system design architecture, from energy capture to storage:
Figure 3.1: MPPT Control Block Diagram for Wind Turbine System
3.5.8 Power Output Comparison (With vs Without MPPT)
The following graph compares the power output performance of the wind turbine system
under MPPT and non-MPPT control:
Figure 3.2: Power Output Comparison – With vs Without MPPT
