Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This project focuses on the design and construction of a 2KVA power inverter. The aim of this research is to develop a reliable and efficient power inverter capable of converting direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC) with a power output of 2KVA. The inverter will be designed to provide a stable and clean power supply suitable for powering household appliances during power outages or in off-grid locations. The design process involves selecting appropriate components such as power transistors, capacitors, transformers, and control circuitry to ensure the inverter meets the required specifications. The inverter will be capable of handling a variety of loads including resistive, inductive, and capacitive loads commonly found in household appliances. The construction phase will involve assembling the selected components on a suitable printed circuit board (PCB) following a detailed schematic diagram. Care will be taken to ensure proper isolation of high voltage components and efficient heat dissipation to maintain the inverter's performance and reliability. After construction, the inverter will be tested under different load conditions to evaluate its performance in terms of output voltage stability, waveform quality, efficiency, and overall reliability. Any discrepancies or issues will be identified and addressed through troubleshooting and adjustments to the design. The completed 2KVA power inverter will undergo rigorous testing to ensure it meets safety standards and performance requirements. This includes testing for overload protection, short circuit protection, overvoltage protection, and temperature protection to safeguard both the inverter and connected appliances. Overall, the successful design and construction of a 2KVA power inverter will provide a cost-effective and reliable solution for generating AC power from DC sources. The project aims to contribute to the field of power electronics by demonstrating a practical application of inverter technology for domestic and small-scale industrial use. The outcomes of this research will be valuable for individuals seeking alternative power sources or backup solutions in areas prone to electricity disruptions. Keywords Power inverter, DC to AC conversion, Inverter design, Power electronics, Printed circuit board, Load testing, Safety standards.

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.