gbhug5a / Solar-Power-Load-Sharing

Simulations of load sharing circuits used in solar-powered LIPO charger, and physical testing of a new opamp version

Solar Power Load Sharing

Simulations of load sharing circuits used in solar-powered LIPO charger

and physical testing of a new opamp version.

Update 4:

Another modification prevents load current from flowing through the charger. See the folder "OpAmpVersion-Revisited-rev2" and included PDF.

Update 3:

The opamp version has been revised to take into account the opamp's input offset voltage. See the folder "OpAmpVersion-Revisited", and the PDF included therein.

Update 2:

Results of actual testing of the solar-powered opamp circuit have been included, and the PDF has been updated accordingly. The issue of resistance to oscillation in the opamp circuit is addressed, and there is discussion of the programming resistor value on the TP4056 module - typically set at 1.2K for 1A charging current.

Update:

The repo has been reorganized to divide its contents between the standard load sharing circuit and a new version that uses an opamp to drive the mosfet gate. The PDF explains both.

This repo examines the idea of using a standard load sharing (power path) circuit in a LIPO charger powered by a solar panel instead of by a fixed 5V supply such as USB. It presents the results of LTspice simulations of such a circuit, and proposes a new circuit featuring a single opamp. Everything is explained in the PDF.