Vertical shear at the equatorial F-region ionosphere during post-sunset hours

The characteristics of the equatorial F-region zonal plasma drift during post-sunset period have been investigated using the multi-frequency HF Doppler radar. The pattern of the zonal plasma drift is such that it starts with a westward drift during the pre-sunset hours, followed by an eastward drift shortly after the E-region sunset. The zonal plasma drift is characterized by the presence of a positive vertical shear around the post-sunset period and maximum shear is observed at the time of the peak of the pre-reversal enhancement in the vertical drift. The presence of vertical shear in the zonal drift is associated with the post-sunset velocity vortex existing at the equatorial F-region.     

Output Power Controller for a Wind-Driven Induction Generator

A constant stator power output controller for a wind-driven grid-connected induction generator is described. The load torque of the generator is controlled by varying the rotor resistance electronically. A dynamic model for the wind energy conversion system is proposed for both controlled and uncontrolled operation.The model is then used to predict the changes in shaft speed,turbine torque, and stator power output in response to change in wind speed. Data pertaining to a 60 kW commercial wind turbine generator is used in this investigation. Results based on analog computer simulation demonstrate the feasibility of the controller for scheduling a desired power output from the induction generator.Results of the tests on a laboratory induction generator driven by amicrocomputer-controlled dc motor drive simulating the characteristics of the wind turbine are included.     

Characteristics of the equatorial F-region vertical plasma drift observed during post-sunset and pre-sunrise hours

Post-sunset and pre-sunrise vertical plasma drifts at the equatorial F-region have been investigated using the HF Doppler radar and ionosonde observations. Observed vertical plasma drift features during the sunrise are found to complement that observed during the evening. The post-sunset vertical plasma drift is characterized by an upward enhancement, a pre-reversal enhancement and a reversal in the drift direction. Similarly, the pre-sunrise plasma drift is characterized by a sudden downward excursion followed by an upward turning. The wavelet analysis of the plasma drift shows the presence of fluctuations in the period range 4–32 min and the short period fluctuations are attributed to the atmospheric gravity waves.