HYBRID

COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF FOREIGN AND LOCALLY ASSEMBLED HYBRID 3.5KVA INVERTER SYSTEM

Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
The aim of this project is to carry out a comparative evaluation of foreign and homebased manufactured hybrid 3.5kva inverter system. Conventional non-hybrid inverter systems are characterized by their dependency on the grid, low efficiency in solar charging, limited energy management capabilities, and ineffective communication between components. Therefore, this endeavor is designed to integrate hybrid features to overcome these shortcomings. The process entailed comparing a hybrid inverter system to address the limitations of non-hybrid inverters and to do this, we incorporated an alternative power source, i.e. solar energy, to charge the battery. This involved designing an MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) charge controller and seamlessly integrating its circuitry with that of the inverter in the non-hybrid system. Additionally, we established effective communication between the DSPIC30F2010 microcontroller on the inverter and the DSPIC30F2010 microcontroller on the MPPT circuitry using serial communication, which we integrated into the inverter. All communication protocols were outlined in the source code. To ensure organization and tidiness, we housed all these components within a single enclosure. The project successfully achieved its intended objectives by comparing the hybrid features of the homebased and foreign manufactured inverter systems. Through meticulous design and implementation, all identified limitations were effectively addressed, leading to significant improvements in system performance and functionality. Relevant tests such as output voltage and frequency test, load and no load test, as well as power efficiency tests were carried out to compare the performances of the foreign and home based manufactured hybrid inverter systems. The performance of the home based hybrid inverter was 219.8V for output voltage versus 230V for the foreign. Frequency for home based was 50.04Hz versus 50.0Hz for the foreign. Both inverters displayed a comparable sine wave output. Power efficiency for home based was 90.64 percent while for foreign, it was 94.5 percent, these results show that there was no remarkable difference between the output of the home based compared to the foreign inverter. Furthermore, the locally assembled inverter cost far less than the foreign counterpart. Hence, this study proves that cost efficient inverter systems can be manufactured locally.
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor

DESIGN AND FABRICATION OF A HYBRID (SOLAR-ELECTRIC) DRYER FOR AGRICULTURAL MATERIALS

Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
This project focuses on the design and fabrication of a hybrid (solar–electric) dryer for agricultural materials. The aim is to develop a low-cost and efficient drying system that utilizes both solar and electrical energy to ensure continuous operation under varying weather conditions. The dryer was designed with major components, including a solar collector, drying chamber, heating element, and forced draft fan powered by both photovoltaic and electrical sources. Locally available materials such as sheet metal, glass, insulation, and mild steel were used in the fabrication process to promote affordability and sustainability. Performance tests were carried out using cassava chips as the sample material, and relevant parameters such as temperature variation, drying time, and moisture reduction were recorded. Results showed that the hybrid dryer achieved faster and more uniform drying compared to traditional open-sun drying. The system proved reliable, environmentally friendly, and capable of maintaining operation during periods of low sunlight. This innovation demonstrates a practical approach to reducing post-harvest losses and improving the preservation of agricultural produce in regions with inconsistent power supply.
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor

DESIGN OF HYBRID CLEAN AND RENEWABLE ENERGY SYSTEMS FOR TELECOMMUNICATION BASE STATIONS

Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
This project aims to design and implement a hybrid clean and renewable energy system for telecommunication base stations, integrating wind and solar energy sources. The primary purpose is to enhance the sustainability, reliability, and efficiency of off-grid power systems, particularly in remote locations where traditional energy sources are costly and environmentally unsustainable. By leveraging the complementary nature of wind and solar resources, the project seeks to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, minimise carbon emissions, and improve the energy autonomy of telecommunication infrastructure. The ultimate goal is to create a resilient, ecofriendly energy framework that contributes to global efforts in combating climate change. The methodology involved an extensive research and development process. Initially, a detailed literature review was conducted to gather insights from existing studies and identify areas for improvement. The design phase focused on developing a dual-input charge controller system capable of managing power from both solar panels and wind turbines. The system architecture incorporated essential components such as voltage and current sensors, metal￾oxidesemiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) drivers, and a battery storage unit. A prototype was simulated using Proteus Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software, followed by the construction of the physical model. The wind turbine was crafted from a modified fan motor, while the battery pack consisted of lithium-ion cells configured for optimal capacity. System testing was conducted under varying environmental conditions to evaluate performance and reliability. The results demonstrated that, while the solar system consistently generated higher energy outputs, the wind turbine provided supplementary power, particularly during periods of low sunlight. The hybrid system showed potential in maintaining stable power generation throughout different times and seasons. However, challenges in wind turbine fabrication affected overall efficiency. The study concludes that integrating wind and solar technologies enhances the resilience and sustainability of telecommunication base stations. Recommendations for future work include improving wind turbine fabrication, expanding testing across diverse climates, and exploring additional renewable energy sources to further bolster system autonomy and efficiency.
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor

HYBRID ONLINE MARKETPLACE WEBSITE

Year of Publication
Publication Type
Abstract
This research presents the design, development, and implementation of a hybrid online marketplace tailored to the needs of local communities in Nigeria. The platform is developed to bridge the gap between informal local trade and modern digital commerce, providing a flexible solution that integrates both online and offline transaction models. It empowers users— particularly students, artisans, and micro-entrepreneurs—to list, promote, and sell goods while buyers can browse, compare, and purchase items within their geographical areas. The system was built using ReactJS for the frontend, Firebase for backend and real-time database operations, and integrated with payment gateways such as Paystack and Flutterwave for secure transactions. Core features include user registration, product upload, search and filter tools, messaging, hybrid payment options, and an admin dashboard for moderation and analytics
Supervisor(s)
co-supervisor