An Analysis of Braking Energy Regeneration in Electric Vehicles

Abstract

Proper utilization of waste energy can mitigate energy crisis and keep cost under control. This project aimed to regenerate the energy from braking load in the vehicle. In this study, a prototype electric regenerative system was designed and tested experimentally to predict its performance. The prototype system was operated by a 12Volt motor that can recharge a 2.4 Volt battery. During experimental test, variable load was applied to test the time required for storing 0.84 Watt into the battery. The results showed that the battery was recharged by 0.80 Coulomb at the time of rotation of 8 seconds applying the maximum load of 648 gram and recharged by 0.15 Coulomb at the time of rotation 1.5 seconds applying the minimum load of 72gram. It was observed that the amount of energy stored in battery was increased with the increasing braking load. This energy can be used for operating auxiliary components such as fans, lights etc. and in cases, added to the main power source. In a nutshell, this project has brought the totally unused energy during braking in the lime light and paved the way to utilize this energy in a fruitful manner.