Solar array monitoring and safety disconnect with remote controller

Abstract

The solar panel array includes solar panels and converters, where the panel bridges can be associated with the solar panels and / or the signal bridges can be associated with the converters for communicating with the panel bridges.

Description

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of patent application number 202180006143.1 (PCT / US2021 / 049976) filed September 11, 2021, entitled “Solar Array Monitoring and Safe Disconnection from Remote Controller”.

[0002] CLAIM OF PRIORITY

[0003] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application 17 / 024,563 Solar Array Communication, filed September 17, 2020, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application 15 / 494,284 Solar Array Communication, filed April 21, 2017. BACKGROUND

[0004] Field of the Invention

[0005] The present invention relates to an article for conducting electrical signals. In particular, solar array communication signals, such as signals to or from a solar panel.

[0006] Discussion of related technologies

[0007] Solar panel arrays provide generation and collection of electrical energy. Communication from the panels of information including current and voltage is an afterthought. Communication with the panels is a facility that is almost un-noticed. SUMMARY

[0008] The present invention provides a means for communication by solar array signals. In an embodiment, a solar panel array communication system includes: a plurality of panels connected in series circuit, the panels for supplying a converter; a signal bridge including a resistance in parallel with a capacitance; a panel bridge including the signal bridge in parallel with a diode; the signal bridge across an input of the converter, and a first toroidal transformer for injecting current into the signal bridge capacitance; and, for each panel, the panel bridge across an output of the panel, a second toroidal transformer for sensing current flowing through the panel bridge, and a switch activated by the second toroidal transformer; wherein the switch is for removing the panel from the circuit, and a change in current injected by the first toroidal transformer is sensed by the second toroidal transformer to change a state of the switch.

[0009] In an embodiment, the solar panel array communication system further comprises: a temperature transducer for measuring a temperature associated with one of the solar panels; a second toroidal transformer for injecting a current related to the measured temperature into the bridge lead; and a first toroidal transformer for sensing the injected current. In an embodiment, the solar panel array communication system further comprises: a current transducer for measuring a current associated with one of the solar panels; a second toroidal transformer for injecting a current related to the measured current into the bridge lead; and a first toroidal transformer for sensing the injected current. In an embodiment, the solar panel communication system further comprises: a voltage transducer for measuring a voltage associated with one of the solar panels; a second toroidal transformer for injecting a current related to the measured voltage into the bridge lead; and a first toroidal transformer for sensing the injected current.

[0010] In an embodiment, a solar panel array communication system includes: a plurality of panels connected in a series circuit, the panels being used to supply a converter; a signal bridge comprising a resistor in parallel with a capacitor; a panel bridge comprising a diode in parallel with the signal bridge; for a first pair of panels, the panel bridge spans the panel output, and a first toroidal transformer is used to sense the current in the panel bridge leads; for each panel in the first pair of panels, a switch is used to remove the panel from the circuit; for a second pair of panels, the panel bridge spans the panel output, and a second toroidal transformer is used to sense the current in the panel bridge leads; for each panel in the second pair of panels, a switch is used to remove the panel from the circuit; and, a signal bridge across the converter input, and a third toroidal transformer for injecting current into the signal bridge leads; wherein, the state of the switch changes when the current injected at the third toroidal transformer changes.

[0011] In an embodiment, the solar panel array communication system further comprises: a temperature transducer for measuring a temperature associated with one of the solar panels; a second toroidal transformer for injecting a current related to the measured temperature into the bridge lead; and a third toroidal transformer for sensing the injected current. In an embodiment, the solar panel communication system further comprises: a current transducer for measuring a current associated with one of the solar panels; a second toroidal transformer for injecting a current related to the measured current into the bridge lead; and a third toroidal transformer for sensing the injected current. In an embodiment, the solar panel communication system further comprises: a voltage transducer for measuring a voltage associated with one of the solar panels; a second toroidal transformer for injecting a current related to the measured voltage into the bridge lead; and a third toroidal transformer for sensing the injected current. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The present invention is described with reference to the accompanying drawings. These drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, further serve to explain the principles that enable one skilled in the art to make and use the invention.

[0013] Figure 1 A system comprising a solar panel array connected to a converter via a bridge is shown.

[0014] Figure 2A -D shows the Figure 1 The controller of the system is the converter and signal bridge.

[0015] Figure 3A -D shows the Figure 1 The system controller and the solar panel bridge.

[0016] Figure 4 Shown Figure 1 The operating mode of the system.

[0017] Figure 5 Another embodiment of a system comprising a solar panel array connected to a converter via a bridge is shown.

[0018] Figure 6A -B shows the connection to Figure 5 A controller bridge for multiple solar panels in a system.

[0019] Figure 7A -B shows an alternative board bridge with controller design.

[0020] Figure 8A -B shows the system controller and board controllers connected to n boards.

[0021] Figure 8C Shown are the interconnected board controller and board array blocks.

[0022] Figures 8D1-8D2 The board controller is shown connected to different numbers of boards.

[0023] Figure 8E -F shows a board controller connected to a different number of boards.

[0024] Figure 8G1 - G2 shows a board controller comprising a metrology block interconnected with board sensors or transducers. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The disclosure provided herein describes examples of some embodiments of the invention. The designs, drawings, and descriptions are non-limiting examples of the embodiments they disclose. For example, other embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and / or method may or may not include the features described herein. Furthermore, the disclosed advantages and benefits may only apply to certain embodiments of the invention and should not be used to limit the disclosed invention. Electrical coupling, connection, and interconnection refer to direct or indirect connection, such that when A is connected to C, there may be an intermediate device B.

[0026] The present invention provides a means for communicating signals within a solar panel array. Embodiments of the invention utilize a toroidal transformer in a transceiver that injects signals into and retrieves signals from a solar panel array.

[0027] exist Figure 1 , a solar panel array 100 is shown connected to a converter. The solar panels 118, 120 are photovoltaic panels and have a voltage output when sunlight is present.

[0028] Solar panels 118, 120 are connected to a power converter 110. The converter can be a DC-AC converter, a DC-DC converter, or some combination of the two. As shown, in this string converter system, there is only one converter for multiple panels. Typically, the converter is mounted remotely from the solar panel array.

[0029] Solar panels 118, 120 are connected to the converter 110 via bridges. Each panel is connected to a signal bridge 112 with a controller via a panel bridge 114, 116 with a controller, and the panel bridges are interconnected. The signal bridge is then connected to the converter 110.

[0030] As explained below, high-frequency signals can be transferred via solar panel wiring. Specifically, signals can be transferred from signal bridge 112 to board bridges 114 and 116, and from board bridge to signal bridge, via interconnect wiring 130. As described, i) converter-to-signal bridge interconnections, ii) signal bridge-to-board bridge interconnections, and iii) solar panel-to-board bridge interconnections do not exclude intermediary devices. Line 132 interconnects board bridge 116 with signal bridge 112.

[0031] Figure 2A A converter and a signal bridge 200A with a controller are shown. In this figure, a signal bridge 212 is across the input 229 of the converter 110. Coupled to the signal bridge lead 213 is a magnetic coupler, such as a toroidal transformer 215. Item 291 is an optional backup power supply that can be connected to the translator / transmitter 216.

[0032] Signals from toroidal transformer 217 are transmitted or exchanged with the controller. Within the controller, translator / transmitter 216 translates signals from or sends signals to the toroidal transformer. For example, signals received from a signal bridge are translated and sent to input / output block 214. For example, signals sent to solar panels 118 and 120 can originate from input / output block 214, be translated, and then be transmitted to board bridges 114 and 116 with the controller via wiring 130.

[0033] When toroidal transformer 215 injects current into the signal bridge, signals are sent. These signals can implement several functions, including the ability to remove one or more solar panels from the circuit. The signals received when toroidal transformer 215 is excited by the current in the signal bridge provide information about the solar panel array, including voltage, current, and temperature.

[0034] The signal bridge controller 218 or portions thereof may be implemented in or included in hardwired logic or multi-purpose logic, such as an application specific integrated circuit (“ASIC”), a microcontroller, a computer processing unit (“CPU”), or a field programmable gate array (“FPGA”).

[0035] Figure 2B A signal bridge 200B is shown. As shown, the bridge includes a resistor 233 in parallel with a capacitor 235. The capacitor provides a communication path for high-frequency signals, such as signals in the range of 50.0 to 200.0 kilohertz. The resistor is optional and can provide a means for draining energy stored in the capacitor.

[0036] In an embodiment, the value of the capacitor is in the range of 2.0 to 20.0 microfarads. In an embodiment, the value of the resistor is in the range of 1.0 to 10.0 megohms.

[0037] Figure 2C Signal bridge 200C is shown. As shown, the bridge includes capacitor 235 (first network) in series with resistor 240, and the first network is connected in parallel with resistor 233. For capacitor 235 and resistor 233, the values ​​are similar to those above. The value of second resistor 240 is smaller than the value of resistor 233. In an embodiment, the value of the second resistor is 1 to 10 ohms. Signal bridge 250 can replace signal bridge 212. Signal bridge 250 can replace Figure 3B Signal bridge 342 in.

[0038] Figure 2DSignal bridge 200D is shown. As shown, the bridge includes capacitor 235 (second network) in series with inductor 242, and the second network is connected in parallel with resistor 233. For capacitor 235 and resistor 233, the values ​​are similar to those above. The value of inductor 242 is small. In an embodiment, the value of the inductor is 1 to 1,000 nH. Signal bridge 260 can replace signal bridge 212. Signal bridge 260 can replace Figure 3B Signal bridge 342 in.

[0039] The typical example of a board bridge 114, 116 with a controller is Figure 3A , Figure 3A Shown is a solar panel 300A connected to a panel bridge with a controller.

[0040] like Figure 3A As seen in FIG, a bridge circuit 114 with a controller is in circuit with a solar panel 118. The bridge circuit 114 with a controller includes a bridge 310 connected across outputs 323, 324 of the solar panel 118. Coupled to the bridge leads 311 is a magnetic coupler, such as a toroidal transformer 312.

[0041] A disconnect device, such as a switch or switches 316 , is located at the output of the solar panel, such as the negative output 324 of solar panel 118 . In an embodiment, one of the disconnect devices or switches is located between the solar panel and the connection 320 to the panel bridge 310 .

[0042] The signal arriving at toroidal transformer 312 is passed to controller 318. Within the controller, translator / transmitter 314 translates the signal and passes it on. When the signal is passed to switch 316, a change in the received toroidal signal can change the state of the switch. For example, the change can be a logical 0 or 1. For example, the change can be a logical string, such as a logical string forming a logical word or multiple logical words.

[0043] The signal leaving the toroidal transformer 312 is passed from the translator / transmitter 314 in the controller 318 to the toroidal transformer 312. The signal is injected into the board lead 311 through the toroidal transformer 312 and conducted through the wiring 130 to the signal bridge at the converter.

[0044] The translator / transmitter 314 or portions thereof may be implemented in or included in hardwired logic or multi-purpose logic, such as an application specific integrated circuit (“ASIC”), a microcontroller, a computer processing unit (“CPU”), or a field programmable gate array (“FPGA”).

[0045] Figure 3B The board bridge 300B is shown. The board bridge 310 includes a signal bridge 342 connected in parallel with a diode 348. The signal bridge includes a capacitor 346 connected in parallel with a resistor 344.

[0046] In an embodiment, the value of capacitor 346 is in the range of 2.0 to 20.0 microfarads. In an embodiment, the value of resistor 344 is in the range of 1.0 to 10.0 megohms. In an embodiment, the diode is an 80V, 15Amp, Schottky diode.

[0047] Figure 3C A solar panel is shown connected to a panel bridge in another configuration 300C. In this embodiment, controller 318 includes a measurement module, such as measurement module 317, connected to translator / transmitter 314 for exchanging signals with the translator / transmitter. The measurement may include measurements associated with the solar panel or its performance. Signals, including signals from the transducers, may originate from the measurement module, and signals, including signals from the transducers, may be sent to the measurement module.

[0048] The metrology module 317 may be in the controller 318 and / or the solar panel 118. The metrology module 317 may have electrical connections 319 to the panel or to sensors in the panel, such as temperature sensor 321, current sensor 323, and voltage sensor 325.

[0049] Figure 3D A disconnect device 300D is shown. The disconnect device may include one or more switches (two are shown), and the switches may be linked or unlinked. In an embodiment, the two switches 354, 356 are linked, such that an appropriate signal input to switch 350 opens both switches (352 disconnects from 358 twice) or closes both switches (352 connects to 358). As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, certification bodies such as Underwriters Laboratories may require that solar panel disconnects be redundant.

[0050] Figure 4 Communication via a toroidal transformer 400 is shown. In a first mode of operation, a safety signal is passed from converter ring 215 to plate ring 312. Here, converter ring 215 injects a signal at or near converter 110, and plate ring 312 receives the signal at plate 118 to change the state of switch 316.

[0051] In a second mode of operation, the metric is passed from the panel ring 312 to the converter ring 215. Here, the panel ring 312 injects a signal at or near the panel 118, and the converter ring 215 receives the signal at the converter 110 to transmit the information to the translator transmitter 216 and the I / O 214. For example, where temperature information from the temperature sensor 321 is transmitted, the translator / transmitter can provide translation of the signal, and the I / O can directly or indirectly utilize the translated signal to manage the solar array.

[0052] Figure 5-6A -B shows other embodiments 500, 600AB of the solar panel communication system.

[0053] Figure 5 Another embodiment of a solar panel array connected to a converter is shown. In the figure, the converter 110 is connected to four or more solar panels 520,522,524,526.

[0054] Signal bridge 112 with controller is connected between converter 110 and board bridges 514 and 516 with controller, and wiring 560 connects the signal bridge and the board bridges. Board bridge 514 with controller interconnects signal bridge 112 with controller and solar panels 520 and 522. Board bridge 516 with controller interconnects signal bridge 112 with controller and solar panels 524 and 526. As described, i) converter to signal bridge interconnection, ii) signal bridge to board bridge interconnection, and iii) solar panel to board bridge interconnection do not exclude intermediary devices.

[0055] The signal from the signal bridge 112 with controller is sent to the board bridge with controller via wiring 560. The board bridges 514 and 516 with controller are typically Figure 6A A board bridge 514 with a controller.

[0056] like Figure 6A As seen in FIG, a single translator / transmitter 650 is interconnected with two switches 316, which are used to remove boards 520, 522 from the circuit. Coupled to the board bridge leads 622 is a magnetic coupler, such as a toroidal transformer 620, which is used to exchange signals with terminal 0 of the translator / transmitter. For example, the connection of translator / transmitter terminals 1, 2 to the switch opens or closes the signal of switch 316.

[0057] The first panel bridge 310 spans the output of the first solar panel 520, and the second panel bridge 310 spans the output of the second solar panel 522. In an embodiment, a switch 316 is between the panels 520, 522 and the panel bridge lead connections 652, 654.

[0058] In the first solar panel 520 circuit, the switch 316 provides a means for disconnecting / connecting the solar panel from the circuit. In the second solar panel 522 circuit, the second switch 316 provides a means for disconnecting / connecting the solar panel from the circuit.

[0059] Typical 514, 516 boards with controllers are also Figure 6B A board bridge 514 with a controller.

[0060] like Figure 6B As seen in FIG. 3 , a single translator / transmitter 650 is interconnected with both switches 316 and with the transducers of each board. In various embodiments, the translator / transmitter 650 includes Figure 3C The measurement block is shown in the comment item 317. The transducers can be used for temperature 571, current 572 and voltage 573.

[0061] The first panel bridge 310 spans the output of the first solar panel 520, and the second panel bridge 310 spans the output of the second solar panel 522. In an embodiment, a switch 316 is between the panels 520, 522 and the panel bridge lead connections 652, 654.

[0062] Coupled to board bridge lead 622 is a magnetic coupler, such as a toroidal transformer 620, which is used to exchange signals with terminal 0 of the translator / transmitter. For example, the connection of translator / transmitter terminals 1 and 2 to the switch opens or closes the signal of switch 316. For example, the signal provides board management information such as temperature, current, and voltage to signal bridge 112.

[0063] In other embodiments of a board bridge with a controller, a single translator / transmitter may be interconnected with three, four, or more switches 316 and with the transducers of each board. Figure 6A Similar architecture.

[0064] Can be used except Figure 3A and Figure 6A Banqiao design beyond Banqiao design.

[0065] Figure 7A An alternative bridge and controller design 700A is shown. In this alternative bridge and controller design, capacitor 704 and diode 702 are placed across the outputs 323, 324 of solar panel 118. Across the negative solar panel output and between the anodes of capacitor 704 and diode 702 is switch 316. Across the switch is signal bridge 710. The signal bridge is a capacitor network such as 200B, 200C, and 200D.

[0066] A magnetic coupling, such as a toroidal transformer 312, is used to inject current and to sense the current flowing in the positive solar panel output lead 323. In particular, the magnetic coupling is located near the cathode connection of the diode 702 in the wiring 130 connected to the converter. The toroidal transformer 312 is connected 313 to the translator / transmitter 708, which in turn is connected to the switch 316.

[0067] Signals originating from a signal bridge near the converter are conducted to the board bridge by wiring 130, are translated and affect, for example, the switch state. Signals originating from a board bridge near the board are conducted to the signal bridge by wiring 130, are translated and provide, for example, board performance.

[0068] Board bridge and controller instead of 720 can replace Figure 1 The board bridge and controllers 114 and 116 .

[0069] Figure 7B An alternative bridge and controller design 700B is shown. In the alternative bridge and controller design, two solar panels are connected together.

[0070] With the first solar panel 520, capacitor 704 and diode 702 are connected across the output of panel 520. In the negative solar panel output and between the anodes of capacitor 704 and diode 702 is switch 316. Across the switch is signal bridge 752. The negative solar panel output lead of the first panel is connected to the positive output lead of the second solar panel 522.

[0071] With the second solar panel 522, capacitor 704 and diode 702 are placed across the output of panel 522. In the negative solar panel output and between the anodes of capacitor 704 and diode 702 is switch 316. Across the switch is signal bridge 752. The signal bridge is a network of capacitors such as 200B, 200C, and 200D.

[0072] A magnetic coupling such as a toroidal transformer 312 is used to inject current and to sense the current flowing in the positive solar panel output lead of the first panel. In particular, the magnetic coupling is located near the cathode connection of the diode 702 in the wiring 560 connected to the converter.

[0073] As seen, toroidal transformer 312 is connected 313 to translator / transmitter 750 at terminal 0. Terminal 1 of the translator / transmitter is connected to switch 316 at first board 520 and terminal 2 of the translator / transmitter is connected to switch 316 at second board 522.

[0074] Signals originating from the signal bridge near the converter are conducted to the board bridge by wiring 560, are translated and affect, for example, the switch states of the two switches. Signals originating from the board bridge near the board are conducted to the signal bridge by wiring 560, are translated and provide, for example, board performance.

[0075] Board bridge and controller instead of 760 can replace Figure 5 The board bridge and controllers 514 and 516.

[0076] Figure 8A -B shows another embodiment 800A-B of a solar panel communication system.

[0077] exist Figure 8A 8 , the converter 110 has a connection 801, which can be an output connection to an AC grid interconnected with other AC sources (such as an AC output connection). The converter input connection can be a DC connection. Converter input conductors or lines 811, 812 interconnect a board 847 including a board controller 818 and / or a board array 819. Some embodiments of the converter include a capacitor 111, such as a capacitor coupled across the converter input. The capacitor can provide a current path via conductors 811, 812. The capacitor can provide a current path through the converter 110 and the board bridge of the board controller (e.g., see FIG8D ).

[0078] A current sensor / injector 312 (such as a toroidal current transformer) is proximate to or magnetically coupled to one of the converter lines 811, 812. The current sensor / injector is connected to a system controller 810, which may include any one of an I / O device 214 and a translator / transmitter 216. The translator / transmitter 216 may include a memory such as a semiconductor memory or a non-volatile semiconductor memory, and the memory may store values ​​such as alarm values.

[0079] The system controller can be powered by alternating current (AC). The system controller can be interconnected with or include a backup power supply 808, such as an AC or DC backup power supply. The AC backup power supply can provide power when, for example, the converter output connection to the AC source is lost or degraded. Thus, the backup power supply can enable the system controller to operate when no AC power from the AC grid or AC source is available or insufficient at the converter output connection 801.

[0080] The current / sensor injector 312 is coupled to the translator / transmitter 216 via line 809. In some embodiments, the I / O device 214 and the backup power supply 808 are interconnected with the translator / transmitter.

[0081] Figure 8B8. A panel controller 800B is shown coupled to the panel array. As mentioned, the panel controller 818 is interconnected with the converter lines 811, 812. The second current sensor / injector 315 is shown proximate to the conductor 811 between the first current sensor / injector 312 and the panel controller 818. The second current sensor / injector is interconnected with the panel controller via line 824. The panel controller is interconnected with one or more (1 to n) panels (e.g., panels 118, 120) in the panel array 819.

[0082] In various embodiments, the board controller 818 includes one or more of the board bridge 310, the translator / transmitter 314, and the switch 803 (e.g., a switch for disconnecting the boards 118, 120 from the converter 110). In an embodiment, the board controller includes one board bridge, one translator / transmitter, and n switches for switching n boards.

[0083] In some embodiments, the board controller 818 includes or is interconnected with a memory device 813, such as a semiconductor memory or non-volatile semiconductor memory. In the event that all n switches can be commanded to open or close in unison, the memory can instruct and / or enable the switches to maintain and / or restore the last commanded switch state.

[0084] The panel controller 818 can be powered by AC or DC power. In an embodiment, the panel is powered by DC (direct current) power. DC power can be obtained from the panels 118, 120. Here, the panel controller is operable when the panel is exposed to sunlight and when the panel generates sufficient power.

[0085] In an embodiment, sufficient board power and memory 813 can enable switches 803 ... to maintain the last commanded switch state. In the case of using memory 813 such as non-volatile memory, the switch can regain the last commanded switch state after board power is lost.

[0086] In an embodiment, when the converter output connection to a power source, such as an AC power source, is lost or degraded, the backup power source 808 can enable the system controller 810 to transmit commands or exchange information, which may include system controller commands and board metrics, via communication between the first current sensor / injector 312 and the second current sensor / injector 315. In some embodiments, power available from the board (e.g., 118, 120) can be disconnected from the converter 110 regardless of the loss or degradation of the converter output connection 801 to the power source. In some embodiments, when the system controller 810 detects that the converter output connection to the AC source is lost or degraded, the power available from the board can be disconnected from the converter 110, and the system controller 810, here using the backup power source 808, can transmit a disconnect command to the board controller.

[0087] Figure 8C The converter input 800C is shown connected to a plurality of panels. As can be seen, panel 847 is interconnected in series 817 with panel 849. Additionally, one or more additional panels may have a series connection similar to that between panels 847 and 849.

[0088] Figure 8D1 The board controller 800D1 is shown coupled to one board. Here, the board controller 818 includes a board bridge 310, a translator transmitter 314, and a switch 805 for interconnecting one board 118. The board bridge interconnects the converter input lines 811, 812. The translator transmitter line 832 is interconnected with the switch 805, and the translator / transmitter line 824 is interconnected with the second current sensor / injector 315.

[0089] Switch 805 interconnects board 118 to junction 833 of board bridge line 823 and converter line 812 via lines 835 and 843. Lines 811 and 821 are interconnected at junction 837. This junction and board 118 are interconnected by line 815.

[0090] The translator / transmitter 314 is interconnected with the current sensor / injector 315 to receive commands from the system controller and / or exchange information, which may include commands, with the system controller 810. It is noted that the translator / transmitter 314 may receive information and / or commands from interconnected switches and / or boards.

[0091] Figure 8D2 A board controller 800D2 is shown coupled to two boards. Here, the board controller 818 includes a board bridge 310, a translator transmitter 314, and two switches 803, 805 for interconnecting the two boards 118, 120. The board bridge interconnects the converter input lines 811, 812. The translator / transmitter line 830 is interconnected with the switch 803, the translator / transmitter line 832 is interconnected with the switch 805, and the translator / transmitter line 824 is interconnected with the second current sensor / injector 315.

[0092] First switch 803 establishes series connections 841, 842 to selectively interconnect the two boards, based on commands received from translator / transmitter 314 via line 830. Second switch 805 interconnects second board 120 to junction 833 of board bridge line 823 and converter line 812 via lines 835 and 843. Lines 811 and 821 are interconnected at junction 837. This junction and first board 118 are interconnected by line 815.

[0093] The translator / transmitter 314 is interconnected with the current sensor / injector 315 to receive commands from the system controller and / or exchange information, which may include commands, with the system controller 810. It is noted that the translator / transmitter 314 may receive information and / or commands from interconnected switches and / or boards.

[0094] Figure 8E A board controller 800E is shown coupled to three boards. Here, the board controller 818 includes a board bridge 310, a translator transmitter 314, and three switches 803, 804a, and 805 for interconnecting the three boards 118, 119a, and 120. The board bridge interconnects the converter input lines 811 and 812. A translator / transmitter line 830 is interconnected with switch 803, a translator / transmitter line 831a is interconnected with switch 804a, a translator / transmitter line 832 is interconnected with switch 805, and a translator / transmitter line 824 is interconnected with the second current sensor / injector 315.

[0095] First switch 803 establishes series connections 841, 842 to selectively interconnect boards 118, 119a according to commands received from translator / transmitter 314 via line 830. Second switch 804a establishes series connections 881a, 882a to selectively interconnect boards 119a, 120 according to commands received from translator / transmitter via line 831a.

[0096] The third switch 805 interconnects the third board 120 with the junction 833 of the board bridge line 823 and the converter line 812 via lines 835 and 843 according to commands received from the translator transmitter via line 832 .

[0097] The translator / transmitter 314 is interconnected with the second current sensor / injector 315 to exchange information and / or commands with the system controller 810. The translator / transmitter may receive information and / or commands from the interconnected switches and / or boards.

[0098] Figure 8F A board controller 800F is shown coupled to four boards. Here, the board controller 818 includes a board bridge 310, a translator transmitter 314, and four switches 803, 804a, 804b, and 805 for interconnecting the four boards 118, 119a, 119b, and 120. The board bridge interconnects the converter input lines 811 and 812. A translator / transmitter line 830 is interconnected with switch 803, a translator / transmitter line 831a is interconnected with switch 804a, a translator / transmitter line 831b is interconnected with switch 804b, a translator / transmitter line 832 is interconnected with switch 805, and a translator / transmitter line 824 is interconnected with the second current sensor / injector 315.

[0099] The first switch 803 establishes series connections 841, 842 to selectively interconnect the board 118, 119a in response to commands received from the translator / sender 314 via line 830. The second switch 804a establishes series connections 881a, 882a to selectively interconnect the boards 119a, 119b in response to commands received from the translator sender via line 831a. The third switch 804b establishes series connections 881b, 882b to selectively interconnect the boards 119b, 120 in response to commands received from the translator sender via line 831b.

[0100] The fourth switch 805 interconnects the fourth board 120 with the junction 833 of the board bridge line 823 and the converter line 812 via lines 835 and 843 in response to commands received from the translator sender via line 832.

[0101] The translator / sender 314 is interconnected with the second current sensor / injector 315 to exchange information and / or commands with the system controller 810. The translator / sender can receive information and / or commands from the interconnected switches and / or boards.

[0102] Figure 8G1 Another embodiment 800G1 is shown that has one board 118 that further includes board metrology. Here, a metrology block 860 connects transducers / sensors (such as board mounted transducers) with the translator / sender 314 that can communicate these metrology to any one or more of the system controller 810, the board controller 818, the translator / sender 216, 314, and the I / O block 214. A line 861 can interconnect the translator / sender 314 with the metrology block 860. One or more lines 862 can interconnect the transducers / sensors and the metrology block. The metrology block can provide one or more of signal conditioning and scaling of the transducer / sender signals. The metrology block can provide one or more comparisons of the transducer / sender signals or the conditioned or scaled values of these signals with values or alarm values stored within the metrology block, stored within the board controller 818, or stored within the system controller 810.

[0103] Figure 8G2Another embodiment 800G2 is shown having two boards 118, 120 that further includes board metrics. Here, a metrics block 860 connects a transducer / sensor (such as a board-mounted transducer) to a translator / transmitter 314, which can communicate these metrics to any one or more of the system controller 810, the board controller 818, the translator / transmitter 216, 314, and the I / O block 214. A line 861 can interconnect the translator / transmitter 314 with the metrics block 860. One or more lines 862 can interconnect the transducer / sensor and the metrics block. The metrics block can provide one or more of signal conditioning and scaling of the transducer / transmitter signals. The metrics block can provide one or more comparisons of the transducer / transmitter signals or conditioned or scaled values ​​of these signals with values ​​or alarm values ​​stored within the metrics block, stored within the board controller 818, or stored within the system controller 810.

[0104] In some embodiments, the metric is transmitted via the translator / transmitter 314 and the current sensing / injection device 312 and received by one or more of the I / O block 214, the translator transmitter 216, and the system controller 810. In some embodiments, the I / O block communicates the metric and / or metric-based alarm via one or more of a telephone, cell phone, cellular, Internet, or dedicated link. Any of these links can be used to alert authorities / services such as a fire station where a fire detector, such as a temperature sensor, indicates an impending or existing fire.

[0105] Some embodiments may utilize transducers / sensors. For example, transducers / sensors may include devices that detect and / or change panel and / or environmental variables. Panel transducers / sensors may include any one or more of panel current, panel voltage, and panel temperature transducers / sensors, for example, to provide panel operation alarms. Transducers may include any one or more of temperature transducer / sensor 511, current transducer / sensor 572, and voltage transducer / sensor 573. Some embodiments may trigger a fire alarm when temperature transducer / sensor 511 detects a temperature exceeding normal operating limits, for example, due to panel malfunction or a fire that overheats the panel.

[0106] When an overtemperature event or related alarm, such as a panel overtemperature (e.g., a temperature exceeding a normal operating temperature, such as a normal panel operating temperature), or a fire event, which can be detected by the temperature transducer / transmitter 511, occurs, one or both of the panel controller 818 and the system controller 810 can respond. In a panel controller response, the translator / transmitter 314 in the panel controller 818 can command the switches 803, 805 to open the panel. In a system controller response, the panel controller can forward the alarm to the system controller via the current sensors / injectors 315, 312. The alarm signal can be received by the first translator / transmitter 216 in the system controller 810, which can then inject a control signal into the current sensor / injector 312 to command the panel controller 818 to open the switches 803, 805. Either the panel controller or the system controller can transmit an indication of the alarm to responding personnel or systems (such as a fire station and system operators) via the I / O block 214.

[0107] When an overcurrent (e.g., a current exceeding a normal operating current such as a normal panel operating current) or hazardous current event or related alarm occurs, such as a panel overcurrent, which may be detected by the current transducer / transmitter 512, one or both of the panel controller 818 and the system controller 810 may respond. In various embodiments, the response is similar to that described above in connection with the overtemperature event.

[0108] When an overvoltage (e.g., a voltage exceeding a normal operating voltage such as a normal panel operating voltage) or hazardous voltage event or related alarm occurs, such as a panel overvoltage, which may be detected by the voltage transducer / transmitter 512, one or both of the panel controller 818 and the system controller 810 may respond. In various embodiments, the response is similar to that described above in connection with the overtemperature event.

[0109] In some embodiments, the values ​​for the temperature limit, current limit, and voltage limit are stored in non-volatile memory in the board controller 818. These values ​​can be modified, for example, by a system operator. The values ​​can be modified by injecting the new values ​​into the translator / transmitter 216 in the system controller 810 via the I / O 214. The translator / transmitter 216 can then inject control signals with the new values ​​into the current sensors / injectors 312, 315 and the command board controller 818 in one or more of the boards 847, 849 to update the values ​​stored in their non-volatile memories.

[0110] In some embodiments, values ​​indicating one or more of excessive temperature, current, and voltage are stored in a board controller memory 813, such as a non-volatile board controller memory. These values ​​can be modified, for example, a system operator can modify these values ​​stored in the system controller 810 and / or the translator transmitter 216 via the I / O block 214. For example, a system operator can modify these values ​​stored in any one or more of the board controller 818, the board bridge 310, and the translator transmitter 314 by using the I / O block 214, the translator transmitter 216, and the first current sensor / injector 312 and the second current sensor / injector 315.

[0111] In the above solar array communication example ( Figure 1 , 2A-D, 3A-D, 5, 6A-B, 7A-B, 8A-F), the signal injected into one or both of the current sensors / injectors 312, 315 can be a coded signal. The signal can address all boards, different boards, or different groups of boards. For example, the code sequence 0101 can command all board switches (e.g., 803, 805 in FIG8D) to open, while a different code sequence 1010 can command all board switches to close.

[0112] In the above solar array communication example ( Figure 1 , 2A-D, 3A-D, 5, 6A-B, 7A-B, 8A-F), a memory 813 (such as a non-volatile memory) can be incorporated into the board bridge 310 and / or into one or more of the translator transmitter 314 or the board controller 818. The non-volatile memory can be used to store alarms or similar values ​​for board temperature, current, and voltage. The non-volatile memory can be used to store code sequences or action commands to operate switches (e.g., 803, 805 in FIG. 8D ). For example, the non-volatile memory can store a code sequence or an action commanded by a code sequence so that one or more switches maintain a state associated with the last received code sequence stored in the memory. For example, the board bridge 310 can incorporate a non-volatile memory so that the associated switches (e.g., 803, 805 in FIG. 8D ) maintain a state associated with the last received code sequence stored in the memory.

[0113] Although various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they are presented by way of example only and not limitation. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A solar panel array communication system, characterized in that: include: a converter having an AC output and a DC input, the AC output being for connection to an AC source; The converter DC input comprises connected to series interconnected blocks pb1...pb m a first converter conductor and a second converter conductor, wherein m>1; Each plate pb i having two or more solar panels; Each plate pb i With board controller pc i , for the plate pb i wherein the two or more solar panels receive DC power; System controller including translator / transmitter and I / O blocks; Each board controller pc i The number of switches included is equal to pb i The number of solar panels in the Each board controller pc i Includes translator / transmitter, non-volatile memory and a board bridge; The panel bridge includes a signal bridge and a diode connected in parallel with the signal bridge, the signal bridge including a capacitor, wherein there are no additional diodes and capacitors across the output of each solar panel of the two or more solar panels; a board controller pc1 connected to said first converter conductor; and, board controller pc m connected to the second converter conductor; Wherein, the system controller is configured to send a switch opening code and a switch closing code to a non-volatile memory in each board controller, and the last switch code received in the non-volatile memory operates to command a common state of the switch in each of the m board controllers.

2. The solar panel array communication system according to claim 1, wherein: Further including: System controller backup power supply; a system controller current sensor / injector proximate to the first converter conductor; Board Controller Current Sensor / Injector CS i , wherein cs1 is coupled to the board controller pc1 and is close to the first converter conductor; as well as, In the first to m-1th interconnections between the first to mth serially interconnected board controllers, the second to mth current sensors / injectors are distributed near each interconnection and coupled to corresponding ones of the second to mth board controllers.

3. The solar panel array communication system according to claim 2, wherein: Each board controller pc i The switch in the pb i The solar panel and the panel controller pc i disconnect.

4. The solar panel array communication system according to claim 3, wherein: One of the board controller translators / transmitters receives measurements made by the board sensors.

5. The solar panel array communication system according to claim 4, wherein: A measurement indicative of an out-of-range operating condition causes the affected panel controller to open the switch therein.

6. The solar panel array communication system according to claim 5, characterized in that: A measurement indicative of an out-of-range operating condition causes the board controller experiencing the out-of-range operating condition to send an alert to the system controller, which in turn opens the switch in each of the remaining board controllers.

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