Use of object oriented programming and optimization techniques for photovoltaic generators simulation.

When a photovoltaic facility has a dispersion of characteristics, a difference in the working temperatures or a full or partial shading or dirt in the PV panels, we say that the installation is working under mismatched conditions. This cases can entail an important impact on the energy production and the safety of the facility. In this study the documentation, maintenance and restructuring of a code project able to provide simulations of photovoltaic generators working under mismatched situations is explained. This project uses optimization techniques, applied using object oriented programming (OOP). Starting from the most basic devices that conform a photovoltaic generator, its components are represented by classes. These components are combined in series or parallel following the respective electric laws (Kirchhoff’s laws). As the complexity of these structures grow, so does their mathematical representation. Therefore, advanced calculus methods are used to solve the involved systems of non-linear equations. The main output of this model is the current - voltage characteristic of the photovoltaic generator. In order to establish a solid base for future improvements and more ambitious projects, the code will be properly commented, documented and restructured. In order to make it easier for engineers to use it in other code projects, it will be converted into a software library. It will consist of software pages and its proper documentation, including a theoretical explanation, a technical description and a user’s guide. All the components will be free software in order to grant permission to use, copy, modify, and distribute them and their documentation (under the terms of the GNU General Public License)