JSS MAHAVIDYAPEETHA

J SS Science and Technology University

“SOLAR POWERED BOOST CONVERTER FED E-TANDEM

BIKE”
A technical project report submitted in partial fulfillment of the award of the
degree of

BACHELOR OF
ENGINEERING

IN

Electrical and Electronics Engineering

BY
SANGEETHA T P 01JST19EE038
DEEPAK K J 01JST20EE40
VARUN BHAJANTRI 01JST19EE0
HARISH G N 01JST19EE

Under the guidance of

Mrs.Divyashree B P
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR,
DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
JSS STU, Mysuru-06

2022-2023

Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering

 JSS MAHAVIDYAPEETHA

JSS Science and Technology University

Certificate
This is to certify that the work entitled

“SOLAR POWERED BOOST CONVERTER FED E-TANDEM

BIKE” is a bonafide work carried out by Sangeetha T P, Deepak K J, Varun

Bhajantri, Harish G N in partial fulfilment of the award of the degree of
Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Electronics for the award of Bachelor
of Engineering by JSS Science and Technology University, Mysuru, during the
year 2022-2023. The project report has been approved as it satisfies the academic
requirements in respect to project work prescribed for the Bachelor of
Engineering degree in Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering.

Under the guidance of Head of the department

Mrs. Divyashree B P Dr M H Sidram
Assistant Professor Associate Professor and Head
Dept of Electrical and Electronics Dept of Electrical and Electronics
Engineering Engineering
SJCE, JSS S&TU, Mysuru-6 SJCE, JSS S&TU, Mysuru-6

Examiners:
1.…………………
2. ………………….
 DECLARATION

We do hereby declare that the project titled “SOLAR POWERED

BOOST CONVERTER FED E-TANDEM BIKE ” is carried out by the

project group, under the guidance of Mrs. Divyashree B P, Assistant Professor,
Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, JSS Science and
Technology University, Mysuru, in partial fulfilment of requirement for the award
of Bachelor of Engineering by JSS Science and Technology University, Mysore,
during the year 2022-2023.

We also declare that we have not submitted this dissertation to any other
university for the award of any degree or diploma courses.

Date:

Place: Mysore

Sangeetha T P

Deepak K J

Varun Bhajantri

Harish G N
 ABSTRACT
The most trending invention of this decade is Electric Vehicles which are widely
utilized around the world. This project presents the fabrication and designing of an E-
Tandem cycle. The main objective is to reduce the charging duration of a battery. An
attempt to design and prepare a self-charging electric bicycle consisting of solar
panel. Solar energy can be utilized which is available free of cost to charge the
batteries and design a control. The advantage of this cycle is that two adults can go
faster than one adult on a solo bike because, while doubling the power, weight is not
quite doubled, and wind resistance stays almost the same. To reduce the charging
duration of a battery, a solar powered boost converter design is proposed.

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We would like to express our special thanks and honest gratitude to our guide
Mrs. Divyashree B P, Assistant professor, who has helped us to overcome all
difficulties faced in our project work. We feel the privilege to study at JSS Science
and Technology University, Mysuru which has provided us with enormous support
and teachings in our course.

We would like to thank Dr. M H Sidram, Associate Professor and Head of the
Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering for his valuable guidance
during the course.

We are thankful to ………………., Principal, JSS Science and Technology

University, Mysuru for providing a supreme academic environment that has
encouraged us to enhance our skills.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all the Professors and Assistant
Professors who have helped us in completing the project successfully.

We thank our parents, friends, and other faculties of the department for their
unconditional support.

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CONTENTS
CONTENTS Page no.
ABSTRACT i
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ii
CONTENTS iii
1. INTRODUCTION
2. ……
3. ……
4. …..\
5. ……

6.RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

8.CONCLUSION AND FUTURE SCOPE
REFERENCES
APPENDIX

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CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
A tandem electric bike is a bike that is built for more than two people. The
electric component gives it power so less effort is needed on the rider's part to move
the bike. These e-bikes are often used for commuting or just going on an adventure.
E-bike use is growing in some markets, as they are seen as an eco-friendly and
healthy alternative to cars, fossil fuel powered mopeds and small motorcycles, and a
less physically intense alternative to conventional bicycles Electric bikes pedal and
handle just like a regular bicycle. By and large, an electric bike will use the same parts
too. The electric component is meant to augment human power, not completely
replace it. It makes obstacles like hills and headwind more manageable and allows
you to travel further without getting as tired. Energy crisis is one of the major
concerns in today’s world due to fast depleting resources of petrol, diesel and natural
gas. In combination with this, environmental decay is an additional factor which is
contributing to the depletion of resources which is an alarming notification. The
Electric Bike which works on the battery that is powered by the motor is the general
mode of transport for a local trip. The solar panels can be an alternative source for this
by adding it to the system. The Electric bike which will be running on battery, the
power is supplied by the motor, thereby supplying this power to drive the other gear
components. The main purpose of using this E-bike is that it is user friendly,
economical and relatively cheap. The efficiency of this system is undeniable
compared to conventional modes of transport. These bicycles have an integrated
electric motor which can be used for propulsion. The motor uses the gearing system
and works synergistically with the bike's gears for higher efficiency, making cycling
uphill easy. Has a low and centre weight distribution which makes the bike feel stable.
E-bikes use rechargeable batteries & the lighter varieties can travel up to 25 to 32
km/hour. GPS which is present in every smartphone gives the positioning of the
vehicle and passengers can know the exact location of the vehicle. It is a very low-
cost system since the cost is only the internet charges. Experts think that in the future,
more than 10 million electric bicycles would be sold each year around the world. In
2017, there were only about 1 million. With less specification in traditional e-bikes
there is not more people showing interest towards electrical ways of transport.

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Lithium-Ion Battery
Lithium-ion battery or Li-ion battery could be a rechargeable battery. it's
composed of cells during which lithium ions move from the negative electrode to the
positive electrode through an electrolyte during discharge and back when charging.
Li-ion batteries have a high energy density, no memory effect and low self-discharge.
Cells are manufactured to prioritize either energy or power density.

Generally, the negative electrode of lithium-ion cell is formed from carbon. The
positive electrode is usually a metal oxide. The electrolyte could be a lithium salt in
an organic solvent counting on the direction of current flow through the cell, the
electrochemical roles of the electrodes reverse between anode and cathode.
The most common commercially used anode is graphite, which in its fully
lithiated state of LiC6 correlates to a maximal capacity of 1339 C/g (372 mAh/g). The
positive electrode is usually one in every of three materials: a layered oxide (such as
lithium cobalt oxide), a polyanion (such as lithium iron phosphate) or a spinel (such
as lithium manganese oxide). More experimental materials include graphene-
containing electrodes, these aren't used commercially because of their high cost.
Lithium reacts with water to create lithium hydroxide (LiOH) and hydrogen
gas. Thus, a non-aqueous electrolyte is usually used, and a moisture is excluded from
the battery pack. The non-aqueous electrolyte mentioned above may be a mixture of
organic carbonates like ethylene carbonate or diethyl carbonate containing complexes
of lithium ions.
The charging procedures for single Li-ion cells, and complete Li-ion batteries,
are slightly different:
• A single Li-ion cell is charged in two stages:
1. Constant current (CC)
2. Constant voltage (CV)
• A Li-ion battery (a set of Li-ion cells in series) is charged in three stages:
1. Constant current
2. Balance (not required once a battery is balanced).
3. Constant voltage.
A battery consists of multiple connected lithium-ion cells. Battery packs for
big consumer electronics like laptop computers also contain temperature sensors,
transformer circuits, voltage taps, and charge-state monitors. Safety risks like
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overheating and short circuiting are minimized from these components. Also, to
power larger devices like electric cars, many small batteries connected in closed
circuit is more practical and more efficient than connecting one large battery.
The commercial Li-ion batteries are utilized in consumer electronics and
electric vehicles. Such devices include:
• Portable devices: These include mobile phones and smartphones, laptops and tablets,
digital cameras and camcorders, electronic cigarettes, handheld game consoles and
torches (flashlights).
• Power tools: Li-ion batteries are employed in tools like cordless drills, sanders,
saws, and a spread of garden equipment including whipper-snippers and hedge
trimmers.
• Electric vehicles: Electric vehicle batteries are utilized in electric cars, hybrid
vehicles, electric motorcycles and scooters, electric bicycles, personal transporters and
advanced electric wheelchairs.

BLDC hub motor

Making an electric motor rotate requires that the direction of current flow through the
motor windings (coils) is alternated in order to generate a rotating magnetic field. In
the case of brushed DC motors, this is achieved through the mechanical action of
brushes and commutator. Instead of a commutator and brushes, brushless DC motors
use semiconductor switches. Brushless DC motors generally have three coils, with
semiconductor switches connected to each of these. Turning the semiconductor
switches on and off in the correct sequence alternates the current flow, which
generates the rotating magnetic field that causes the motor to turn. Accordingly, the
motors require a drive circuit to perform this sequencing. Furthermore, the
semiconductor switches are switched by detecting the orientation of the permanent
magnet rotor, using a magnetic sensor (typically a hall sensor).

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Brushless DC motors can be broadly divided into outer-rotor and inner-rotor motors.

Outer-rotor motors
These motors have the coils on the inside and the magnets on the outside, so
that it is the outer circumference of the motor that rotates. Although this
configuration means that the moment of inertia of the rotor is high, it helps
maintain steady rotation.
Inner-rotor motors
These motors have their magnets on the inside as the rotor, and the coils on the
outside as the stator. The advantage of this internal rotor configuration is that
the rotor has a low moment of inertia, allowing for precise control.

Brushless DC motors are further divided into SPM and IPM motors depending on
how the permanent magnets are attached to the rotor.
Surface permanent magnet (SPM) motors
The permanent magnets are attached to the outer circumference of the rotor.

Interior permanent magnet (IPM) motors

The permanent magnets are embedded in the interior of the rotor.

Brushless DC motors are electric motors that do not require the consumable brushes
and commutator. They benefit from quiet operation together with long life and low
maintenance.

Instead of brushes and a commutator, driving a brushless DC motor is done

electronically using a drive circuit. The drive circuit is needed to turn semiconductor
switches on and off in the correct sequence to generate the rotating magnetic field that
causes the motor to turn.

The BLDC hub motor is a brushless electric motor that is commonly used in e-bikes.
It is called a hub motor because it is located in the hub of the wheel, making it a
compact and efficient design. The motor is made up of a stator, which is the fixed part
of the motor, and a rotor, which is the rotating part of the motor. The stator has a
series of electromagnets, and the rotor has permanent magnets.

When the motor is powered, the electromagnets in the stator create a magnetic field
that interacts with the permanent magnets in the rotor. This interaction causes the
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rotor to rotate, which in turn propels the bike forward. The motor controller regulates
the amount of current that flows through the electromagnets, which controls the speed
and torque of the motor. This allows the rider to control the speed of the bike with a
throttle or pedal assist system.

The BLDC hub motor is the main component that powers an e-bike. It is responsible
for converting electrical energy into mechanical energy, which propels the bike
forward. The motor is located in the hub of the wheel, making it a compact and
efficient design. The BLDC motor is also known for being durable and low-
maintenance.

There are two types of BLDC hub motors: geared and gearless.

Geared BLDC motors have a gearbox that reduces the motor's RPM and increases
torque, which makes them more efficient at lower speeds. They are smaller, lighter,
and less expensive than gearless motors.

Gearless BLDC motors, also known as direct-drive motors, are larger and heavier
than geared motors. They don't have a gearbox, which makes them more efficient at
higher speeds. They are also quieter and have fewer moving parts than geared motors.

In both types of motors, the stator (fixed part) has a series of electromagnets, and the
rotor (rotating part) has permanent magnets. When the electromagnets are energized,
they create a magnetic field that interacts with the permanent magnets in the rotor,
causing it to rotate. The motor controller regulates the amount of current that flows
through the electromagnets, which controls the speed and torque of the motor.

Overall, BLDC hub motors are an important part of e-bikes as they provide efficient
and reliable power to the bike.

ROLE OF BLDC HUB MOTOR IN AN E-BIKE

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The BLDC hub motor in an e-bike works by converting electrical energy into
mechanical energy. The motor is located in the hub of the wheel and has a stator with
a series of electromagnets and a rotor with permanent magnets. When the
electromagnets are energized, they create a magnetic field that interacts with the
permanent magnets in the rotor, causing it to rotate. The motor controller regulates the
amount of current that flows through the electromagnets, which controls the speed
and torque of the motor. This rotation of the rotor propels the bike forward, providing
efficient and reliable power to the bike.

SELECTION OF SOLAR PANEL

A 30-watt solar panel is a small and efficient option for small-scale projects that
require a reliable power source.
The efficiency of a solar panel refers to the percentage of sunlight that is converted
into electricity. When selecting a 30-watt solar panel, it's important to consider the
efficiency of the panel. A higher efficiency solar panel will produce more power for
the same amount of sunlight, which can be important if you have limited space for the
solar panel.
The size and weight of the solar panel are also important factors to consider. A 30-
watt solar panel is relatively small and lightweight. It's easy to carry and transport.
Solar panels are designed to last for many years, but some are more durable than
others. When selecting a 30-watt solar panel, it's important to consider the durability
of the panel. Look for a solar panel that is made with high-quality materials and has a
strong frame to withstand harsh weather conditions.

The cost of the solar panel is also an important factor to consider. A 30-watt solar
panel is relatively inexpensive compared to larger solar panels. Select solar panel that
offers a good balance of efficiency, size, and durability for the price.
Overall, selecting a 30-watt solar panel requires careful consideration of efficiency,

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size, weight, durability, and cost. By taking these factors into account, we chose a
solar panel that meets our needs and provides reliable power for our project.
BOOSTING 12V TO 48V

A 30-watt solar panel can be used to boost a 12V battery to a 48V battery by using a
DC-DC boost converter. A DC-DC boost converter is an electronic circuit that can
increase the voltage of a DC power source. In this case, the 30-watt solar panel is the
DC power source, and the DC-DC boost converter will convert the 12V output from
the solar panel to a 48V output.

The DC-DC boost converter works by using an inductor to store energy and a switch
to control the flow of current. When the switch is closed, the inductor stores energy
from the solar panel. When the switch is opened, the inductor releases the stored
energy, which increases the voltage of the output. The DC-DC boost converter can be
adjusted to provide the desired output voltage, in this case, 48V.

It's important to note that the output power of the solar panel will be limited by the
amount of sunlight it receives. A 30-watt solar panel will only produce 30 watts of
power under ideal conditions, which means that the output power of the DC-DC boost
converter will also be limited to 30 watts. If more power is needed, additional solar
panels will need to be added to the system.

Overall, using a 30-watt solar panel with a DC-DC boost converter is a simple and
efficient way to boost a 12V battery to a 48V battery. It's a great solution for small-
scale projects that require a higher voltage output.

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1.2 Literature Survey
The below mentioned papers were helpful to provide the information for
carrying out this Project work:

1. “IOT controller for smart bicycle” Akhilesh Nadkarni, Omkar Mudrale, Rashi
Saraf, Harshali Zodpe,Vishal Pansare

In this paper, a bicycle with smart lock which is incorporated in order to

lock/unlock the bicycle. Hall effect sensors are used to measure distance
travelled .The bicycle location is tracked and this is achieved using GPS module
which gives real time positioning of the bicycle. The bicycle has numerous sensors
which provide features like GPS tracking, distance covered and other fitness
metrics.

2. “Smart Electric Cycle with IoT” A.Kamalnath, P.Gokul, R.Abinesh, Mr.

B.Balaji

This paper explains the designing of an hybrid electric bicycle that operates on solar
energy gained from the solar panels attached without the need of human effort or
using fuel to run it. Solar panels are directly attached to the vehicle. The Arduino
controller will read the voltage, speed and calculate battery charging time
depending on the solar voltage and all the data displayed on the LCD.

3. “Proposal of a Smart Bicycle Tourism Improving Tourability and Safety for

Tourists by Mesh LPWA Communication System” Tomonari Uchimi,Shinji
Chiba

In this paper, they proposed a bicycle tourism system using LPWA communication
system that covers the whole tourists area, connecting among tourists, transporters.
The communication system consisted a private LoRa gateways and relays. The
gateway gathers the data from relays and communicate to the cloud server. The
relay expands the communication area. They provided a wearable tags that
connects to the LPWA communication and co-operate with smartphone dedication
application. The proposal system needs to endure disaster and can communicate
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 with a wide area at low cost. The proposal system was confirmed through field tests
whether the constructed LPWA communication system is effective in actual tourist
destinations.

4. “Power Efficient e-Bike with Terrain Adaptive Intelligence” D. S. H. Abhilash ,

Iqbal Wani, Kiran Joseph, Rashmi Jha, Haneesh K. M.

This paper developed a battery powered e-bike with a BLDC hub motor.The low
cost e-bike was designed and developed with BLDC hub motor and with controller.
For smart control mobile application is used which was connected to the e-bike
through Bluetooth. The rider can control the e-bike using a hand controlled throttle.
To improve the efficiency and the range, a gradient sensor based controller is
provided, which help in suitably giving the throttle based on the gradient of the road
in the auto run mode. The gradient sensors were used for energy saving. Gradient of
the road is measured by gradient sensor. The sensor will feed the voltages based on
the gradient of the track. If the gradient is negative, the sensor will feed zero with
increasing positive slope, it will give positive voltages. In negative slope, the motor
will be switched off.

5. “Autonomy and User Experience Enhancement Control of an Electrically

Assisted Bicycle with Dual-wheel Drive” Michael Guarisco ,Fei Gao ,Damien
Paire

This paper presents a control strategy study of a dual-wheel drive electric cycle
containing two electric motor. The bicycle is controlled by a fuzzy controller which
ensure the sharing of the total power between front and rear motors. The two motors
are controlled by two separate torque. Developed an electric bicycle by taking the
human-bicycle coupling into consideration. Developed a control method for an
electric bicycle with regenerative braking and dual-wheel drive.

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Problem identification
 Traditional e-bikes designs being inefficient in carrying more than two person
due to certain limit.
 Improper design leading to high power consumption and speed decline when
load is applied.
 Lesser effectiveness in credibility and cost of E-bikes.
 Inappropriate usage of renewable energy resource to recharge the battery even
while riding.

1.3 Objectives and Scope of the Project Work

 To fabricate and design Solar based smart e-tandem bike.

 Proper selection of drive with respect to load and speed enhancement at

different conditions with appropriate control circuit.

 To design converter circuit to increase voltage from solar panel end to the
battery and to reduce charging duration of battery

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