Research Chair : Energy, Full Professor : Electrical Engineering/ Energy Systems Director : Energy Institute Head: Centre for Distributed Power and Electronic Systems Head: Centre for Power Systems Research Convener : AIUE Conferences Address: Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
This paper’s aim is to improve the operation of tracking and locating transmitters through levera... more This paper’s aim is to improve the operation of tracking and locating transmitters through leveraging of the emergence of cost-effective software-defined radios (SDRs) and the additional degrees of freedom of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platform. Different radio direction-finding (RDF) systems and techniques are investigated to find a suitable solution that fits within the constraints of a suitable UAV platform.
2021 International Conference on Electrical, Computer and Energy Technologies (ICECET), Dec 9, 2021
Sustainable energy is growing significantly especially in Africa. The sustainable energy that is ... more Sustainable energy is growing significantly especially in Africa. The sustainable energy that is mainly known is Solar Photovoltaic (PV) and wind. Most African countries are closer to the equator where there is enough sunlight. The design of the solar panel is increasing, and many individuals and utility companies are acquiring them as a solution for on /off-grid generating electricity solution. Most engineers and technologists are more concerned about the efficiency of the solar panel, however, the safety aspect regarding the maintenance and disposal of the solar cells and panels after their lifetime is unknown. This paper aims to assess the maintenance and disposal process of solar panels. It is beneficial for the communities to be aware what are the possible effects positive and negative that solar panels can cause in case if the disposal is not done correctly and efficiently. Thus, engineers and technologists shall liaise with the environmentalists when planning and designing the solar panel to ensure efficiency during operation and considering safety during the disposal of the solar panel effectively. The disposal site needs to be identified and personnel must be trained.
This paper investigates the feasibility of the implementation of cogeneration at universities wit... more This paper investigates the feasibility of the implementation of cogeneration at universities with distributed generation systems in South Africa. In 2006 many universities were caught off guard by the energy crisis in South Africa, particularly in the Western Cape. To ensure that research and teaching were not neglected due to the power crisis emergency, standby generators were installed at most of the universities. This cost the institutions millions of Rands. However, the real cost implication was felt when the only utility, ESKOM, applied load shedding. Over a period of one month the generators of one institution used 15 000 litres of diesel during power failures. Cogeneration methods are discussed as a means of reducing energy consumption bills. Discussions are made of topping and bottoming cycles in cogeneration methods, utilizing either steam or gas turbines or reciprocating engines. Besides cogeneration the aim of this paper is also to promote energy consumption reduction methods at universities.
Electric motor has remained a major prime mover of most industrial driven systems. Global estimat... more Electric motor has remained a major prime mover of most industrial driven systems. Global estimates are that 40% of industrial electricity is consumed by electric motor systems, and South African estimates are around 60%.Therefore improving energy efficiency of EMDS (Electric Motor-Driven Systems) will ensure the supply of more consumers using the same electricity production capacity; and slow down the electricity demand growth, and reduce the investment needed for the expansion of the electricity sector. There have been growing concerns and innovations on the reduction of losses incurred by a typical electric motor. Harmonisation of electric motor efficiency standards by International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and the replacement of die-cast aluminium rotors with die-cast copper rotors are such innovations. EMDS have ancillary components whose collective poor efficiency performance impedes the system efficiency. Therefore there is a need for a system approach to the efficiency improvement.
Majani. C. C., and Kahn. M. T. E. (2009). "Smart Distribution Board for Active Load shifting... more Majani. C. C., and Kahn. M. T. E. (2009). "Smart Distribution Board for Active Load shifting for Demand Side Management Applications". In Proc. International Conference towards Sustainable Energy Solutions for the developing world (pp. 185-190).
Advances in intelligent systems and computing, 2017
During the night or in a dark environment, the definition of current video surveillance systems i... more During the night or in a dark environment, the definition of current video surveillance systems is very poor, mainly due to the insufficient brightness. Although the infrared LED lights can effectively improve the quality of the picture, the red explosion phenomenon detracts from the stealth of the whole monitoring system and the LED brightness will also decrease after the long-term use. This paper proposes a solution based on an ARM control module platform, a laser light source, and an HD MCCD camera to improve the quality of video surveillance system in the full-dark environment. The new platform occupies a small volume, and the infrared laser light module compared with an LED of the same brightness has low power consumption, no red explosion phenomenon, and reduced heat associated with it. The ARM platform simplifies the video capture and has better image processing capability, which enhances the video quality. This improved the overall versatility of the monitoring system. The video data is stored in a removable SD card format and may be uploaded to the server by means of a wireless network .
The recent advancements in electric motor speed control and application in the industrial and com... more The recent advancements in electric motor speed control and application in the industrial and commercial sectors have warranted several authors describing or defining electric drive from their perspectives. This has resulted to the immense growth of the literature on ac (alternating current) drives which has proliferated in different directions, so that a motivated reader attempting to study the literature gathers only frustration. Likewise energy efficiency means different things to different people. To some energy efficiency is the same as energy conservation, and to others exergy efficiency should be preferred to energy efficiency.
Fiber optical gyroscope (FOG) is a new-generation angular sensor based on Sagnac effect. This pap... more Fiber optical gyroscope (FOG) is a new-generation angular sensor based on Sagnac effect. This paper proposed the distortion measurement system using FOG operation system for surface measurement such as long distant surface like freeway road, and airdrome runway or dam. The FOG systems have many particular advantages which can not be replaced by other type gyroscopes. The FOG system is not effected by electricmagnate fields and all-solid-state-structured indeed. The principles of the distortion measurement system, the designs of the hardware structure and software are presented and tested indoor.
This study proposes a centralized control system for an islanded multivariable minigrid to improv... more This study proposes a centralized control system for an islanded multivariable minigrid to improve its performance, stability and resilience. The integration of renewable energy sources and distributed energy storage systems into microgrid networks is a growing trend, particularly in remote or islanded areas where centralized grid systems are not available. The proposed control system is designed to be implemented at two levels a high-level control system and a low-level control system. Hence, the high-level control system balances energy resources and demand, makes decisions for effective resource utilization and monitors energy transactions within the minigrid. Real-time data from various sources and advanced algorithms are used to optimize energy management and distribution enabling the integration of renewable energy sources and enhancing the resilience of the minigrid against power outages. Moreover, the low-level control system monitors energy parameters such as voltage, curre...
The significance of reliable energy storage systems in spacecraft applications cannot be overstat... more The significance of reliable energy storage systems in spacecraft applications cannot be overstated, since they play a vital role in ensuring continuous power supply and prolonged mission durations. This research deals with the modeling of a hybrid multi-mission radioisotope thermoelectric generator (MMRTG)-lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery integrated energy storage system for spacecraft applications to combine the RTGs’ long lifespan and reliability benefits alongside the Li-ion battery’s rechargeability and high energy density to achieve a single energy unit. The investigation’s main problem was exploring a power unit that improves the limitations of MMRTG and Li-ion batteries to achieve a highly efficient and reliable power supply for autonomous systems, such as a spacecraft. The proposed hybrid system comprises a 110 W/32 V RTG and a 3.6 V/43 Ah Li-ion battery connected to a DC motor through power converters. Results demonstrate the potential of the adopted hybrid energy system in im...
International Journal of Innovative Research and Scientific Studies
Wind turbines (WTs) create electricity by utilizing the energy of the wind. As a result, wind tur... more Wind turbines (WTs) create electricity by utilizing the energy of the wind. As a result, wind turbine control and cost-effective operation were studied. The control system offers a long service life, maximum energy output, and safety. On control methods and control strategies, various ways for limiting and optimizing energy consumption were discussed. Integration of wind power may compromise the stability of the transient system. Asynchronous induction generators cannot handle the quantity of reactive power generated in wind energy applications. WTs are usually constructed to withstand inclement weather but not for high speeds or torque. Strong aerodynamic torques or rotational speeds are capable of destroying WT blades. To prevent this, WTs always have a cutout speed over which the turbine will be stopped by its brakes. When excessive wind speeds endanger the safety of the turbines, the WT employs a range of control techniques. As a result, all WTs are constructed using a power con...
2012 Proceedings of the 20th Domestic Use of Energy Conference, 2012
This paper describes how 3D electronic vision can be used in rotation of the solar panel for opti... more This paper describes how 3D electronic vision can be used in rotation of the solar panel for optimal use of sunlight to power an incandescent, CFL and LED light. The light intensity from the CFL and LED lighting powered by the solar panel is measured and how the solar panel, battery setup and grid supply is used in a hybrid electrical setup for both daytime and night time lighting. The method used is to measure the light intensity of the incandescent, CFL and LED lighting. To obtain optimal use of the solar panel, the 3D vision formula is used to rotate the solar panel. The CFL and LED light intensity measurements are obtained as daytime lightning are needed in certain buildings. As different ambient conditions occur during daytime, the effect of a half shadow and full shadow on the solar panel is investigating. The hybrid electrical supply setup was designed and the incandescent, CFL and LED lights were powered from the solar panel. The output light intensity of the incandescent, C...
This paper’s aim is to improve the operation of tracking and locating transmitters through levera... more This paper’s aim is to improve the operation of tracking and locating transmitters through leveraging of the emergence of cost-effective software-defined radios (SDRs) and the additional degrees of freedom of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platform. Different radio direction-finding (RDF) systems and techniques are investigated to find a suitable solution that fits within the constraints of a suitable UAV platform.
2021 International Conference on Electrical, Computer and Energy Technologies (ICECET), Dec 9, 2021
Sustainable energy is growing significantly especially in Africa. The sustainable energy that is ... more Sustainable energy is growing significantly especially in Africa. The sustainable energy that is mainly known is Solar Photovoltaic (PV) and wind. Most African countries are closer to the equator where there is enough sunlight. The design of the solar panel is increasing, and many individuals and utility companies are acquiring them as a solution for on /off-grid generating electricity solution. Most engineers and technologists are more concerned about the efficiency of the solar panel, however, the safety aspect regarding the maintenance and disposal of the solar cells and panels after their lifetime is unknown. This paper aims to assess the maintenance and disposal process of solar panels. It is beneficial for the communities to be aware what are the possible effects positive and negative that solar panels can cause in case if the disposal is not done correctly and efficiently. Thus, engineers and technologists shall liaise with the environmentalists when planning and designing the solar panel to ensure efficiency during operation and considering safety during the disposal of the solar panel effectively. The disposal site needs to be identified and personnel must be trained.
This paper investigates the feasibility of the implementation of cogeneration at universities wit... more This paper investigates the feasibility of the implementation of cogeneration at universities with distributed generation systems in South Africa. In 2006 many universities were caught off guard by the energy crisis in South Africa, particularly in the Western Cape. To ensure that research and teaching were not neglected due to the power crisis emergency, standby generators were installed at most of the universities. This cost the institutions millions of Rands. However, the real cost implication was felt when the only utility, ESKOM, applied load shedding. Over a period of one month the generators of one institution used 15 000 litres of diesel during power failures. Cogeneration methods are discussed as a means of reducing energy consumption bills. Discussions are made of topping and bottoming cycles in cogeneration methods, utilizing either steam or gas turbines or reciprocating engines. Besides cogeneration the aim of this paper is also to promote energy consumption reduction methods at universities.
Electric motor has remained a major prime mover of most industrial driven systems. Global estimat... more Electric motor has remained a major prime mover of most industrial driven systems. Global estimates are that 40% of industrial electricity is consumed by electric motor systems, and South African estimates are around 60%.Therefore improving energy efficiency of EMDS (Electric Motor-Driven Systems) will ensure the supply of more consumers using the same electricity production capacity; and slow down the electricity demand growth, and reduce the investment needed for the expansion of the electricity sector. There have been growing concerns and innovations on the reduction of losses incurred by a typical electric motor. Harmonisation of electric motor efficiency standards by International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and the replacement of die-cast aluminium rotors with die-cast copper rotors are such innovations. EMDS have ancillary components whose collective poor efficiency performance impedes the system efficiency. Therefore there is a need for a system approach to the efficiency improvement.
Majani. C. C., and Kahn. M. T. E. (2009). "Smart Distribution Board for Active Load shifting... more Majani. C. C., and Kahn. M. T. E. (2009). "Smart Distribution Board for Active Load shifting for Demand Side Management Applications". In Proc. International Conference towards Sustainable Energy Solutions for the developing world (pp. 185-190).
Advances in intelligent systems and computing, 2017
During the night or in a dark environment, the definition of current video surveillance systems i... more During the night or in a dark environment, the definition of current video surveillance systems is very poor, mainly due to the insufficient brightness. Although the infrared LED lights can effectively improve the quality of the picture, the red explosion phenomenon detracts from the stealth of the whole monitoring system and the LED brightness will also decrease after the long-term use. This paper proposes a solution based on an ARM control module platform, a laser light source, and an HD MCCD camera to improve the quality of video surveillance system in the full-dark environment. The new platform occupies a small volume, and the infrared laser light module compared with an LED of the same brightness has low power consumption, no red explosion phenomenon, and reduced heat associated with it. The ARM platform simplifies the video capture and has better image processing capability, which enhances the video quality. This improved the overall versatility of the monitoring system. The video data is stored in a removable SD card format and may be uploaded to the server by means of a wireless network .
The recent advancements in electric motor speed control and application in the industrial and com... more The recent advancements in electric motor speed control and application in the industrial and commercial sectors have warranted several authors describing or defining electric drive from their perspectives. This has resulted to the immense growth of the literature on ac (alternating current) drives which has proliferated in different directions, so that a motivated reader attempting to study the literature gathers only frustration. Likewise energy efficiency means different things to different people. To some energy efficiency is the same as energy conservation, and to others exergy efficiency should be preferred to energy efficiency.
Fiber optical gyroscope (FOG) is a new-generation angular sensor based on Sagnac effect. This pap... more Fiber optical gyroscope (FOG) is a new-generation angular sensor based on Sagnac effect. This paper proposed the distortion measurement system using FOG operation system for surface measurement such as long distant surface like freeway road, and airdrome runway or dam. The FOG systems have many particular advantages which can not be replaced by other type gyroscopes. The FOG system is not effected by electricmagnate fields and all-solid-state-structured indeed. The principles of the distortion measurement system, the designs of the hardware structure and software are presented and tested indoor.
This study proposes a centralized control system for an islanded multivariable minigrid to improv... more This study proposes a centralized control system for an islanded multivariable minigrid to improve its performance, stability and resilience. The integration of renewable energy sources and distributed energy storage systems into microgrid networks is a growing trend, particularly in remote or islanded areas where centralized grid systems are not available. The proposed control system is designed to be implemented at two levels a high-level control system and a low-level control system. Hence, the high-level control system balances energy resources and demand, makes decisions for effective resource utilization and monitors energy transactions within the minigrid. Real-time data from various sources and advanced algorithms are used to optimize energy management and distribution enabling the integration of renewable energy sources and enhancing the resilience of the minigrid against power outages. Moreover, the low-level control system monitors energy parameters such as voltage, curre...
The significance of reliable energy storage systems in spacecraft applications cannot be overstat... more The significance of reliable energy storage systems in spacecraft applications cannot be overstated, since they play a vital role in ensuring continuous power supply and prolonged mission durations. This research deals with the modeling of a hybrid multi-mission radioisotope thermoelectric generator (MMRTG)-lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery integrated energy storage system for spacecraft applications to combine the RTGs’ long lifespan and reliability benefits alongside the Li-ion battery’s rechargeability and high energy density to achieve a single energy unit. The investigation’s main problem was exploring a power unit that improves the limitations of MMRTG and Li-ion batteries to achieve a highly efficient and reliable power supply for autonomous systems, such as a spacecraft. The proposed hybrid system comprises a 110 W/32 V RTG and a 3.6 V/43 Ah Li-ion battery connected to a DC motor through power converters. Results demonstrate the potential of the adopted hybrid energy system in im...
International Journal of Innovative Research and Scientific Studies
Wind turbines (WTs) create electricity by utilizing the energy of the wind. As a result, wind tur... more Wind turbines (WTs) create electricity by utilizing the energy of the wind. As a result, wind turbine control and cost-effective operation were studied. The control system offers a long service life, maximum energy output, and safety. On control methods and control strategies, various ways for limiting and optimizing energy consumption were discussed. Integration of wind power may compromise the stability of the transient system. Asynchronous induction generators cannot handle the quantity of reactive power generated in wind energy applications. WTs are usually constructed to withstand inclement weather but not for high speeds or torque. Strong aerodynamic torques or rotational speeds are capable of destroying WT blades. To prevent this, WTs always have a cutout speed over which the turbine will be stopped by its brakes. When excessive wind speeds endanger the safety of the turbines, the WT employs a range of control techniques. As a result, all WTs are constructed using a power con...
2012 Proceedings of the 20th Domestic Use of Energy Conference, 2012
This paper describes how 3D electronic vision can be used in rotation of the solar panel for opti... more This paper describes how 3D electronic vision can be used in rotation of the solar panel for optimal use of sunlight to power an incandescent, CFL and LED light. The light intensity from the CFL and LED lighting powered by the solar panel is measured and how the solar panel, battery setup and grid supply is used in a hybrid electrical setup for both daytime and night time lighting. The method used is to measure the light intensity of the incandescent, CFL and LED lighting. To obtain optimal use of the solar panel, the 3D vision formula is used to rotate the solar panel. The CFL and LED light intensity measurements are obtained as daytime lightning are needed in certain buildings. As different ambient conditions occur during daytime, the effect of a half shadow and full shadow on the solar panel is investigating. The hybrid electrical supply setup was designed and the incandescent, CFL and LED lights were powered from the solar panel. The output light intensity of the incandescent, C...
Later day conventional grid structures consists of generation, transmission and distribution dema... more Later day conventional grid structures consists of generation, transmission and distribution demarcations. There is a myriad of organizational structures from traditional vertically integrated systems, where one utility serves all functions, to fully decentralized systems, where each functions are distributed and performed by a separate utility or either a group of utilities.. Coordination of such massive networks need robust communication systems and sensor systems for fault and anomaly isolation as such events can cause blackout propagation in a very short time. Initially, utilities paid attention to real-time enabled operational communication systems. However, with technological advancement, ancillary communication systems involved with management, gained its justifiable share as well. During the last three decades many power systems have evolved from vertically integrated, publicly owned utilities to more decentralized utilities with full or partial private ownership. Emissions scale back and the active pursuance of the means to become carbon-neutral by 2050, pivots digital communication innovations as the means of achieving this goal. It is thus time to explore cutting edge opportunities in the path of what may be a radical reinvention of the energy sector, driven by increased electrification and access, and enabled by eveloving communication technological development. Digital tools, AI, data analytics and Big Data will play an increasing and vital role in the electricity access arena. Generation business models will have to evolve and embrace it. The IT sector and the IoT sector will become more and more involved, and by this is not meant merely the already existing networked instrumentation systems in the form of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA). Microgrid and Nanogrid deployment goes hand in hand with this technology in bringing more renewable energy onto the grid, in an organised way, as well as accounting for sectors that are currently islanded. A client should, in the end, be able to decide where to buy their electricity from, just as currently we have a choice of supermarket or what product we buy in it.
Selected Concepts in Domestic Use of Energy as published in the DUE Conferences proceedings with ... more Selected Concepts in Domestic Use of Energy as published in the DUE Conferences proceedings with my co-authors.
In this trying time, Muslim burials must be performed with the necessary precautions and restrict... more In this trying time, Muslim burials must be performed with the necessary precautions and restrictions. But it is the right of the dead to be buried, and some are obligated to see this through.
The internet has been abuzz with conspiracies and “causes” of the Covid 19 outbreak, from Deep St... more The internet has been abuzz with conspiracies and “causes” of the Covid 19 outbreak, from Deep State politics to Sino-American biowarfare. This article analyse the current hype that 5G caused amidst the Covid 19 pandemic. I concludes that much of the social media ranting against 5G technology and its link to Covid 19 is unfounded.
Sun-tracking technologies are regarded as one of the best means of addressing the issues pertaini... more Sun-tracking technologies are regarded as one of the best means of addressing the issues pertaining to low conversion efficiencies of photovoltaic (PV) panels. These technologies are dynamic and fall under two categories, active and passive. Active sun-trackers operate by moving PV modules with the help of an electromechanical rotary mechanism whereas the functionality of passive ones relies on the principles of masse balance and gravity. Studies suggested that these systems which involve moving parts, electronics and control systems for their functioning require a combination of various skills in their design and a careful attention in their implementation so as to avoid probable risks of failure. Indeed classic flat and fixed-tilt PV panels still dominate in terms of domestic and industrial energy supply as compared to sun-tracking systems. This chapter is attempting a novel approach of tracking the sun without making use of moving systems. Its structural design and performance are herein provided as well as the results discussed.
It was narrated from Aisha that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: “The one who is proficient with ... more It was narrated from Aisha that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: “The one who is proficient with the Qur’an will be with the noble and righteous scribes (the angels), and the one who reads it and stumbles over it, finding it difficult, will have a double reward.” Grade: Sahih Reference : Sunan Ibn Majah 3779 In-book reference: Book 33, Hadith 124
Book for graduate students in an Electrical Engineering course
Publisher, JUTA & Co. ISBN 978-0-7... more Book for graduate students in an Electrical Engineering course Publisher, JUTA & Co. ISBN 978-0-702-17723-1
A collection of faith based thoughts and ideas about Islam and Muslims over a decade, heralding c... more A collection of faith based thoughts and ideas about Islam and Muslims over a decade, heralding change and soul searching since the post 2009 financial meltdown. Available on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087PP8DZ5
With the rapid growth of renewable energy resources, energy trading has been shifting from the ce... more With the rapid growth of renewable energy resources, energy trading has been shifting from the centralized manner to distributed manner. Blockchain, as a distributed public ledger technology, has been widely adopted in the design of new energy trading schemes. However, there are many challenging issues in blockchain-based energy trading, e.g., low efficiency, high transaction cost, and security and privacy issues. To tackle these challenges, many solutions have been proposed. In this survey, the blockchain-based energy trading in the electrical power system is thoroughly investigated.
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Papers by Prof Mohamed Tariq Kahn
Reference : Sunan Ibn Majah 3779 In-book reference: Book 33, Hadith 124
Publisher, JUTA & Co. ISBN 978-0-702-17723-1
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087PP8DZ5