An advanced photovoltaic array regulator module

Current trends in satellite design are focused on developing small, reliable, and inexpensive spacecraft. To that end, a modular power management and distribution system is proposed which will help transition the aerospace industry towards an assembly line approach to building spacecraft. The modular system is based on an innovative DC voltage boost converter called the series connected boost unit (SCBU). The SCBU uses any isolating DC-DC power converter and adds a unique series connection. This simple modification provides the SCBU topology with many advantages over existing boost power converters. Efficiencies of 94-98%, power densities above 1,000 W/kg and inherent fault tolerance are just a few of the characteristics presented. Limitations of the SCBU technology are presented and it is shown that the SCBU makes an ideal photovoltaic array regulator. A set of photovoltaic power system requirements are presented that can be applied to almost any low Earth orbit satellite. Finally, a modular design based on the series connected boost unit is outlined and functional descriptions of the components are given.

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