Method and apparatus for controlling a power conversion module

Abstract

In a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention, comprising an inverter module for converting electricity generated from a solar array or solar panel, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar array or solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module, an operation method for controlling the inverter module of the solar array or solar panel includes the following steps: receiving a request for a registration identifier (ID) from the slave module; registering the received ID and generating a corresponding individual ID; and transmitting the generated individual ID and a registration completion signal to the slave module, wherein the slave module and the master module can communicate with each other using power line communication (PLC).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for controlling a power conversion module, and more particularly, to a method and apparatus for controlling a solar module as a power conversion module. Background Technology

[0002] A solar power generation system refers to a series of devices and methods that convert solar energy into electrical energy to produce usable power. Because solar cells generate direct current (DC) electricity, and the intensity of sunlight varies frequently depending on weather conditions, the generated power is not constant. Therefore, the main function of a solar power generation system is to convert the irregularly generated DC power into a stable DC voltage source or AC voltage source.

[0003] Solar power systems offer advantages such as clean and unlimited energy, power generation only where needed and in the required amount, relatively easy maintenance and the possibility of unmanned operation, a long service life of over 20 years, and a short construction cycle that allows for rapid response to increased demand.

[0004] However, since the smallest unit of a solar cell can only generate about 0.5 V, its voltage is very small, and therefore cells are rarely used individually. Because the voltage range to be used is from a few volts to tens or hundreds of volts or even higher, solar modules and solar arrays in which multiple cells are connected are used. When solar modules are connected to a solar power system, the system can assign an identifier to each module to distinguish them; however, this still involves the inconvenience of manual assignment.

[0005] Furthermore, the maximum power output and operating point of a solar module vary depending on solar irradiance, temperature, and other factors. Therefore, module-level power electronic devices (MLPEs) that perform maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control on a per-module basis have been used to operate solar modules at their maximum power point. When using this device to control solar modules, a separate signal transmission scheme is required to control the MLPE and ensure stable operation in emergency situations. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical issues

[0007] The present invention has been created to solve the problems of the prior art, and the objective to be solved by the present invention is to provide a solar power generation system that can automatically assign and manage identifiers when solar modules, solar arrays, etc. are added to the solar power generation system.

[0008] The technical problem addressed by this invention is to provide a method and apparatus for controlling a solar module as a power conversion module.

[0009] In addition, the present invention has been created to solve the problems of the prior art, and the purpose to be solved by the present invention is to provide a method and apparatus for controlling a power conversion module to solve problems that may occur due to electric arcs, wherein current may pass through the air and electric arcs may occur if the cables or connectors of a solar power generation system are misconnected or damaged.

[0010] The technical problem addressed by this invention is to provide a method and apparatus for controlling a power conversion module, which can detect electric arcs and prevent potential problems without using large-capacity components.

[0011] The purpose of this invention is not limited to the purposes mentioned above, and other purposes not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0012] Technical solutions

[0013] In a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention, the solar power generation system includes an inverter module for converting electricity generated from a solar array or solar panel, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar array or solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module. The operation method of the inverter module for controlling the solar array or solar panel includes: receiving a registration request for an ID (identifier) ​​from the slave module; registering the received ID and generating a corresponding individual ID; and transmitting the generated individual ID and a registration completion signal to the slave module, wherein the slave module and the master module communicate using a PLC (Power Line Communication).

[0014] In a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention, the solar power generation system includes an inverter module for converting electricity generated from a solar array or solar panel, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar array or solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module, and the operation method of the inverter module for controlling the solar array or solar panel may further include repeatedly transmitting a generated individual ID and a registration completion signal to the slave module.

[0015] In a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention, the solar power generation system includes an inverter module for converting electricity generated from a solar array or solar panel, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a newly connected solar panel operates as a slave module. The method for operating the solar panel registered in the inverter module includes: confirming whether a PLC (Power Line Communication) used by the slave module and the master module for communication is in use; if the PLC is not in use, transmitting an ID (identifier) ​​to the master module using the PLC; and receiving an ID registration completion signal from the master module.

[0016] In a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention, the solar power generation system includes an inverter module for converting electricity generated from a solar array or solar panel, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module. In the operation method for the solar panel registered in the inverter module, the step of confirming whether the PLC used by the slave module and the master module for communication is in use may be a step of using a busy signal to confirm whether the PLC is in use.

[0017] In a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention, the solar power generation system includes an inverter module for converting electricity generated from a solar array or solar panel, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module. The operation method for the solar panel registered in the inverter module may further include: if the PLC is not in use, transmitting an ID to the master module using the PLC at random intervals.

[0018] In a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention, the solar power generation system includes an inverter module for converting electricity generated from a solar array or solar panel, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module. In the operation method for registering the solar panel in the inverter module, the ID registration completion signal received from the master module may further include an ID assigned to the slave module by the master module.

[0019] In a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention, the solar power generation system includes an inverter module for converting electricity generated from a solar array or solar panel, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar array or solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module, and in the operation method for registering the solar panel in the inverter module, the ID may be a unique value assigned to the slave module at the time of manufacturing.

[0020] In a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention, the solar power generation system includes an inverter module for converting electricity generated from a solar array or solar panel, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar array or solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module. The inverter module for controlling the solar array or solar panel includes: a PLC (Power Line Communication) module that receives a registration request for an ID (identifier) ​​from the slave module and transmits a generated individual ID and a registration completion signal to the slave module; and a controller that registers the received ID and generates a corresponding individual ID, wherein the slave module and the master module communicate using the PLC.

[0021] In a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention, the solar power generation system includes an inverter module for converting electricity generated from a solar array or solar panel, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and the solar array or solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module. In the inverter module for controlling the solar array or solar panel, a PLC communication module can repeatedly transmit the generated individual ID and registration completion signal to the slave module.

[0022] In a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention, the solar power generation system includes an inverter module for converting electricity generated from a solar array or solar panel, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar array or solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module. The solar panel for registration in the inverter module includes: a controller that confirms whether a PLC (Power Line Communication) used by the slave module and the master module for communication is in use; and a PLC communication module that, if the PLC is not in use, transmits an ID (identifier) ​​to the master module using the PLC and receives an ID registration completion signal from the master module.

[0023] In a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention, the solar power generation system includes an inverter module for converting electricity generated from a solar array or solar panel, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar array or solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module, and a controller in the solar panel registered in the inverter module can use a busy signal to confirm whether the PLC is in use.

[0024] In a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention, the solar power generation system includes an inverter module for converting electricity generated from a solar array or solar panel, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar array or solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module. If the PLC is not in use, a PLC communication module in the solar panel used for registration in the inverter module can use the PLC to transmit IDs to the master module at random intervals.

[0025] In a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention, the solar power generation system includes an inverter module for converting electricity generated from a solar array or solar panel, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar array or solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module, and the ID registration completion signal received from the master module for registering the solar panel in the inverter module may further include an ID assigned by the master module to the slave module.

[0026] In a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention, the solar power generation system includes an inverter module for converting electricity generated from a solar array or solar panel, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar array or solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module, and the ID of the solar panel registered in the inverter module can be a unique value assigned during the manufacturing of the slave module.

[0027] A module-level power electronic device (MLPE) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: a DC / DC converter that converts electrical energy generated by a solar power generation module; a communication unit that includes a receiving filter and a communication chip connected to the receiving filter; a processor that controls the DC / DC converter and the communication unit; and a noise detection circuit that generates a signal indicating that noise has been detected when the voltage output from the receiving filter is detected to be equal to or greater than a predetermined voltage.

[0028] In an MLPE according to an embodiment of the present invention, the noise detection circuit may include diodes, capacitors and resistors, and the signal generated by the noise detection circuit may be input to a processor.

[0029] In an MLPE according to an embodiment of the present invention, the noise detection circuit may include diodes, capacitors and operational amplifiers, and the signal generated by the noise detection circuit may be input to a processor.

[0030] In the MLPE according to an embodiment of the present invention, when a signal from a noise detection circuit is input, the processor can control the DC / DC converter.

[0031] In the MLPE according to an embodiment of the present invention, the noise detection circuit may include diodes, capacitors and operational amplifiers, and the signal generated by the noise detection circuit may be input to a DC / DC converter.

[0032] In the MLPE according to an embodiment of the present invention, the communication unit may support power line communication (PLC).

[0033] In the MLPE according to an embodiment of the present invention, when the processor operates at 3.3 V, the predetermined voltage can be 2.5 V.

[0034] In the MLPE according to an embodiment of the present invention, the communication unit may further include a transmit filter.

[0035] In the MLPE according to an embodiment of the present invention, the DC / DC converter can be stopped when a signal is generated from the noise detection circuit.

[0036] In the MLPE according to an embodiment of the present invention, the DC / DC converter can be operated again when a signal is no longer generated from the noise detection circuit.

[0037] A solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: a solar power generation module; an MLPE connected to the solar power generation module and converting the electrical energy generated by the solar power generation module into DC power; an inverter module that converts the converted DC power into AC power; and a control module that controls the MLPE and the inverter module.

[0038] Beneficial effects

[0039] According to the present invention, when a slave module is added to a solar power generation system, the master module can automatically identify the slave module and assign it an identifier without administrator intervention.

[0040] According to the present invention, even when a slave module is added to a solar power generation system, the administrator does not need to manually set the slave module's identifier, which eliminates inconvenience and facilitates the management of the slave module's identifier.

[0041] According to the present invention, even when a slave module is added to a solar power generation system, the installation of the slave module can be facilitated because the administrator does not need to set the identifier of the slave module.

[0042] According to the present invention, even when replacing slave modules in a solar power generation system, the administrator does not need to manually set the identifier of the slave module, which can facilitate the later maintenance and management of the slave module.

[0043] According to the present invention, a method and apparatus for controlling a power conversion module can be provided to address the problem that current may pass through the air to generate an electric arc when cables or connectors of a solar power generation system are improperly connected or damaged.

[0044] According to the present invention, a method and apparatus for controlling a power conversion module can be provided, which can detect electric arcs and prevent problems that may be caused therefrom without using large-capacity components.

[0045] Furthermore, the effects that can be obtained from the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the following description other effects not mentioned. Attached Figure Description

[0046] Figure 1 This is a configuration diagram of a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating a solar array according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the master device and multiple slave devices on a PLC in a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the registration of a master device with multiple slave devices in a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the registration of a master module to a slave module in a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the registration of a module in a main module within a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 7 This is a configuration diagram of a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 8a This is a diagram illustrating the transient voltage detection circuit of an MLPE according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 8b This is a graph showing the power line communication signal output from the receive filter in the communication unit of the MLPE.

[0055] Figure 8c This is a graph showing the power line communication signal output from the receiving filter in the communication unit of the MLPE when plasma discharge occurs.

[0056] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the transient voltage detection circuit of an MLPE according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating a transient voltage detection circuit for an MLPE according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0058] In the following, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0059] However, the spirit of the present invention is not limited to some of the embodiments described herein, but can be implemented in various different forms, and within the scope of the spirit of the present invention, one or more components in the embodiments may be selectively combined and replaced for use.

[0060] Furthermore, unless explicitly defined and described, the terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the embodiments of the present invention may be interpreted as having a meaning commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains, and commonly used terms, such as those defined in dictionaries, may be interpreted in light of the contextual meaning of the relevant art.

[0061] Furthermore, the terminology used in the embodiments of this invention is for describing the embodiments and is not intended to limit the invention.

[0062] In this specification, unless otherwise specifically stated in the phrase, the singular form may also include the plural form, and when described as “at least one (or one or more) of A and / or B and / or C”, it may include one or more of all combinations that can be combined with A, B and C.

[0063] In addition, when describing the components of embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a) and (b) may be used.

[0064] These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another, and do not restrict the nature, order, or sequence of the corresponding components.

[0065] Additionally, when a component is described as “connected,” “coupled,” or “connected” to another component, the component may not only be directly connected, coupled, or connected to the other component, but may also include situations where it is “connected,” “coupled,” or “connected” due to another component between the component and the other component.

[0066] Additionally, when described as being formed or positioned "above" or "below" each component, "above" or "below" includes not only cases where two components are in direct contact with each other, but also cases where one or more other components are formed or positioned between two components. Furthermore, when expressed as "above" or "below," it can include not only the meaning of an upward direction based on a component, but also the meaning of a downward direction based on a component.

[0067] Figure 1 This is a configuration diagram of a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Reference Figure 1 The solar power generation system 100 may include a solar array 110, an inverter module 120, a monitoring device 130, and a power grid 140.

[0069] Solar array 110 is a component in a solar power generation system that converts solar energy into electrical energy. Solar array 110 may include multiple solar panels and / or multiple solar strings, wherein the multiple solar panels and / or multiple solar strings include batteries, with the battery being the most basic unit. According to one embodiment, each of the solar panels and / or solar strings may include a microcontroller unit (MCU) 111 and a power line communication (PLC) module 112. Figure 2 The detailed configuration of the solar array 110 is described in detail.

[0070] Inverter module 120 converts DC power generated by solar array 110 into AC power. According to one embodiment, inverter module 120 may include a PLC communication module 121, an MCU 122, an inverter 123, and a communication module 124. MCU 122 can control each component of inverter module 120 to perform the functions of inverter module 120. Inverter module 120 can perform PLC communication with solar array 110 and different communications with monitoring device 130. For this purpose, PLC communication module 121 may be included in inverter module 120, and PLC communication module 121 may be connected to solar array 110 to perform communication. Additionally, communication module 124 may support communication between inverter module 120 and monitoring device 130. Inverter module 120 and monitoring device 130 can communicate using, for example, wireless communication. Inverter 123 can convert DC power received from solar array 110 into AC power under the control of MCU 122.

[0071] Monitoring device 130 may be a device for monitoring the electricity generated by the solar power generation system and monitoring whether each component constituting the solar power generation system is operating normally. Monitoring device 130 may include CPU 131 to receive, display or notify information from inverter module 120 related to the electricity generated by solar array 110, the electricity converted by inverter 123, and the operating status of each component constituting solar array 110.

[0072] Power grid 140 refers to the power grid as a system through which electricity is supplied. Figure 1 In this system, the DC power generated by the solar array 110 can be converted into AC power by the inverter module 120 and supplied to the power grid 140. The power supplied to the power grid 140 can then be supplied to devices and / or locations that require power.

[0073] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating a solar array according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Reference Figure 2 The most basic unit of solar power generation is the cell 210. The cell 210 is primarily made of silicon-based wafers that absorb sunlight and generate electricity. Each such silicon-based cell 210 can produce a voltage of approximately 0.5 V to 0.6 V and a current of 4 A to 8 A. When the cells 210 are connected in series, the voltage increases, and when they are connected in parallel, the current increases. By connecting the cells 210 in series and / or parallel in this way, the desired current and voltage can be generated.

[0075] Solar panel 220 may include multiple cells 210. When the multiple cells 210 are connected in series and / or parallel, solar panel 220 can generate a constant voltage and current under sunlight. Solar panel 220 may sometimes be used interchangeably with solar module.

[0076] The solar string 230 can be configured with multiple solar panels 220 connected in series. In the solar string 230, multiple solar panels 220 can be connected in series so that the solar array 240 can obtain the required output voltage.

[0077] The solar array 240 can be a configuration in which multiple solar strings 230 are connected in parallel. The solar array 240 can also refer to a device in which a bracket is installed taking into account the tilt angle, azimuth angle, etc. of the multiple solar strings 230 under optimal conditions, and the bracket is connected according to the usage conditions in order to obtain as much power as possible.

[0078] According to one embodiment, at least one of the solar panel 220, solar string 230, and solar array 240 can be connected to an inverter. Multiple inverters may be present, and they can convert the current and / or voltage generated from at least one of the solar panel 220, solar string 230, and solar array 240 from direct current to alternating current.

[0079] In the following description, it is assumed that the inverter is connected to solar panel 220, but the invention is not limited thereto.

[0080] Figure 3 This diagram illustrates the master device and multiple slave devices on a PLC in a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Reference Figure 3 A solar power generation system may include a master device 310 and multiple slave devices 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3. The solar power generation system according to this disclosure may use power line communication (PLC), which uses power lines for power supply. Because the master device 310 and the multiple slave devices 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3 in the solar power generation system use power line communication, the power lines can be connected to each other.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the main device 310 may be an inverter in a solar power generation system, but is not limited thereto. For example, one of a plurality of solar panels may be the main device. Alternatively, the main device 310 may be configured separately and included in the solar power generation system.

[0083] Reference Figure 3 The master device 310 may include an MCU (microcontroller unit) 311 and a PLC communication module 313. The MCU 311 can control the PLC communication module 313 to enable the master device 310 to perform PLC communication with multiple slave devices 330-1, 330-2, and 330-3. The MCU 311 can also perform other functions of the master device 310. The PLC communication module 313 can be connected to a power line and generate the signals required for PLC communication to transmit to or receive signals transmitted from the slave devices. The PLC communication module 313 can be controlled by the MCU 311.

[0084] According to one embodiment, each of the plurality of slave devices 330-1, 330-2, and 330-3 can be a solar panel, but is not limited thereto. For example, the slave devices can be solar strings or solar arrays. Figure 3In the diagram, although a solar string 320-1 includes multiple solar panels 330-1, 330-2, 330-3, the diagram shows an example where each individual solar panel 330-1, 330-2, 330-3, rather than the solar string, is configured as a slave device.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the solar panels serving as slave devices 320-1, 320-2, and 320-3 may each include an MCU and a PLC communication module, just like the master device 310. For example, the first solar panel 330-1 may include an MCU 340-1 and a PLC communication module 350-1, and the second solar panel 330-2 may include an MCU 340-2 and a PLC communication module 350-2. Each MCU 340-1, 340-2, and 340-3 included in each solar panel 330-1, 330-2, and 330-3 can control each PLC communication module 350-1, 350-2, and 350-3, and may also control each solar panel in other ways. Furthermore, each PLC communication module 350-1, 350-2, and 350-3 included in each solar panel can generate signals required for PLC communication to transmit to the master device and / or slave device, or receive signals transmitted from the slave device and / or master device.

[0086] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the registration of a master device with multiple slave devices in a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] According to one embodiment, a solar power generation system can use power line communication (PLC) to perform communication, which uses power lines for power supply. Components in the solar power generation system that require communication may include a PLC communication module, and can be connected to the PLC communication module to perform communication. Components performing PLC communication in the solar power generation system can be distinguished as master devices (or master modules) and slave devices (or slave modules), and the master device can register and control the slave devices.

[0088] According to one implementation, in a solar power generation system, the main equipment can be an inverter, but is not limited to this. For example, one of the solar modules can be the main equipment.

[0089] According to one implementation, in a solar power generation system, a master device can register and control multiple slave devices. In this system, each solar panel can be a slave device.

[0090] Reference Figure 4 Slave device 1 403 and slave device 2 405 may not have been registered in master device 401.

[0091] First, slave device 1 403 can transmit an ID (identifier) ​​(410) to master device 401. Slave device 1 403 can transmit the ID to register with master device 401. Slave device 1 403 can confirm whether the PLC is in use, and if it is not in use, it transmits the ID. According to one embodiment, slave device 1 403 can transmit the ID together with a registration request signal (or message). Although in Figure 4 The ID is not shown, but it can be repeatedly transmitted from device 1 403 at random intervals.

[0092] The master device 401 can register the ID (420) received from slave device 1 403. The master device 401 can store the ID received from slave device 1 403 and generate a corresponding individual ID. The master device 401 can generate and manage individual IDs in order to manage multiple slave devices.

[0093] When the master device 401 completes the registration of the ID of the slave device 1 403, the master device 401 may send an ID registration completion signal (or message) (440) to the slave device 1 403. The master device 401 may also send the generated individual ID to the slave device 1 403.

[0094] Simultaneously, slave device 2 405 may also attempt to transmit an ID to master device 401 for registration (430). Slave device 2 405 may first confirm whether the PLC is in use before transmitting the ID. Since the PLC is in use by slave device 1 403, slave device 2 405 may not transmit the ID.

[0095] Slave device 2 405 can again attempt to send the ID to master device 401 for registration (450). However, if it is determined that the PLC is still in use, slave device 2 405 may not send the ID.

[0096] Subsequently, if device 2 405 determines that the PLC is not in use, it can transmit the ID (460). Device 2 405 can also transmit the ID along with a registration request signal (or message). Similarly, although in Figure 4 The ID is not shown, but the device 2405 can repeatedly transmit the ID at random intervals.

[0097] The master device 401 can register the ID (470) received from the slave device 2 405. The master device 401 can store the ID received from the slave device 2 405 and generate a separate ID corresponding to it.

[0098] When master device 401 completes the registration of slave device 2 405's ID, master device 401 may send an ID registration completion signal (or message) (480) to slave device 2 405. Master device 401 may also send the generated individual ID to slave device 2 405. According to one embodiment, master device 410 may repeatedly send the ID registration completion signal and the individually generated ID to prevent communication overlap.

[0099] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the registration of a master module to a slave module in a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] According to one implementation, in a solar power generation system, the main module can be an inverter, but is not limited to this. For example, one of the solar modules can be the main module.

[0101] Reference Figure 5 The master module can receive an ID from the slave module (S510). When the master module receives the ID from the slave module, it can determine that the slave module has made a registration request. Alternatively, the master module can receive the ID and a registration request signal (or message) from the slave module. The ID is the identifier of the slave module and can be a unique value for each slave module.

[0102] When the master module receives an ID from a slave module, it can register the slave module's ID (S520). The master module can store the slave module's ID and assign a unique ID corresponding to it to the slave module. For example, the master module can assign a unique ID to a slave module to facilitate the management of multiple slave modules.

[0103] When the master module completes the registration of the slave module's ID, the master module can send an ID registration completion signal (or message) to the slave module (S530). The master module can send the separately assigned IDs together or separately. According to the implementation, the master module can send the IDs repeatedly several times to prevent overlap in communication.

[0104] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the registration of a module in a main module within a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0105] According to one implementation, in a solar power generation system, the slave module can be a solar panel. Multiple solar panels can each be a slave module. Each of the multiple solar panels can include a PLC communication module to support a PLC.

[0106] According to one implementation, when power is supplied and the slave module is driven, it can determine whether it is connecting to the solar power system for the first time. For example, the slave module can determine whether it is connecting to the solar power system for the first time by determining whether an ID assigned by the master module is stored. Alternatively, if the slave module cannot communicate using the stored ID, it can determine that it is connecting to the solar power system for the first time.

[0107] According to one implementation, the module can be driven by DC power generated from sunlight.

[0108] Reference Figure 6 The slave module can confirm whether the PLC is in use (S610). The slave module can also confirm whether the PLC is being used by another module. Since power lines can be connected to all modules, it may be necessary to confirm whether the PLC is being used by another module in order to use a PLC that communicates via power lines. For example, the slave module can use a busy signal to confirm whether the PLC is in use.

[0109] If the PLC is in use, the slave module can wait. That is, the slave module can not send any signals until the PLC is no longer in use and the PLC can send signals. The slave module can continuously confirm whether the PLC is in use.

[0110] If the PLC is not in use, the slave module can transmit an ID (S620). The ID is the identifier of the slave module and can be a unique value for each slave module. For example, the ID of the slave module can be assigned during manufacturing. The slave module can use the PLC to transmit the ID. According to one implementation, the slave module can transmit the ID along with a registration request signal (or message).

[0111] The slave module can receive an ID registration completion signal (or message) for the transmitted ID from the master module (S630). When the slave module receives the ID registration completion signal, it can determine that it has successfully registered with the master module. The master module can assign a separate ID to the slave module and can transmit the assigned ID together with or separately from the ID registration completion signal. The slave module can use the ID assigned by the master module to communicate with the master module.

[0112] If the slave module does not receive an ID registration completion signal, it can reconfirm whether the PLC is in use, and if the PLC is not in use, it transmits the ID. According to one implementation, the slave module can transmit the ID at random intervals until it receives the ID registration completion signal.

[0113] Figure 7 This is a configuration diagram of a solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0114] Reference Figure 7 The solar power generation system 700 may include a solar power generation module 710, a module-level power electronic device (MLPE) 720, a control module 730, and an inverter module 740. According to one embodiment, the solar power generation system 700 may also include a monitoring module (not shown) and a power grid (not shown).

[0115] A solar power module 710 is a component in a solar power system that converts solar energy into electrical energy. More specifically, the most basic unit of solar power generation is a battery. Batteries are primarily made of silicon-based wafers that absorb sunlight and generate electricity. Each such silicon-based battery can produce a voltage of approximately 0.5 V to 0.6 V and a current of 4 A to 8 A. When batteries are connected in series, the voltage increases, and when connected in parallel, the current increases. By connecting batteries in series and / or parallel in this way, desired current and voltage can be generated. A configuration in which multiple batteries are connected can be called a solar panel or a solar module. Solar panels can generate a constant voltage and current under sunlight. Furthermore, multiple solar panels can exist, and a configuration in which multiple solar panels are connected in series can be called a solar string. Additionally, a configuration in which solar strings are connected in parallel can be called a solar array.

[0116] In this invention, all of the solar panels, solar modules, solar strings, and solar arrays can be solar power generation modules 710.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the solar power module 710 can have different voltage-current characteristics depending on factors such as solar irradiance and temperature, thus allowing the maximum power point of the solar power module 710 to vary. Therefore, the maximum power output and operating point of each solar power module in the solar power module 710 can differ from each other. To optimally control each solar power module in the solar power module 710, the solar power system 700 may include an MLPE 720.

[0118] According to one implementation, one MLPE 720 can be connected to one solar power module 710, but is not limited thereto. For example, one MLPE 720 can be connected to multiple solar power modules 710.

[0119] The MLPE 720 can control the solar power module 710. The MLPE 720 can take into account the characteristics of the solar power module 710 to control its operation at its maximum power point. For example, the MLPE 720 can control the solar power module 710 to track its maximum power point. Additionally, the MLPE 720 can control the output voltage of the MLPE 720 to reduce voltage in emergency situations, thereby preventing secondary accidents.

[0120] In Figure 8 to Figure 10 A detailed description of the MLPE 720 is provided in the document.

[0121] The control module 730 can comprehensively control the components within the solar power generation system 700. The control module 730 can connect to the server of the solar power generation system 700 to transmit and receive necessary information to control the internal components of the solar power generation system 700. Specifically, the control module 730 can connect to MLPE 720 to control MLPE 720 based on the power generation status of the solar power generation module 710. The control module 730 can connect to multiple MLPEs 720 to comprehensively control them. The control module 730 can aggregate power generation information received from multiple MLPEs 720 and transmit it to the server.

[0122] Additionally, the control module 730 can control the inverter module 740. The control module 730 can transmit and receive necessary data through communication with the inverter module 740, and can control the inverter module 740 to convert DC power into AC power.

[0123] In addition, the control module 730 can be connected to the monitoring module and can transmit the information necessary for monitoring.

[0124] Inverter module 740 can perform the function of converting DC power generated by solar power generation module 710 into AC power. According to one embodiment, inverter module 740 may include a processor, a communication unit, and an inverter. The processor can control each component within inverter module 740 to perform the functions of inverter module 740, and the communication unit enables inverter module 740 to transmit and receive necessary data with other modules (e.g., control module 730, etc.). According to one embodiment, the communication unit may support PLC (Power Line Communication), but is not limited thereto. The inverter can convert DC power generated by solar power generation module 710 into AC power under the control of the processor. That is, the inverter can convert the current and / or voltage generated by solar power generation module 710 from direct current to alternating current.

[0125] According to one embodiment, a solar power generation system may include one inverter module 740, but may also include multiple inverter modules 740. When the solar power generation system 700 includes one inverter module 740, the inverter module 740 may be connected to multiple control modules 730. When the solar power generation system 700 includes multiple inverter modules 740, the inverter module 740 may be connected to one control module 730, or may be connected to multiple control modules 730.

[0126] A monitoring module (not shown) may be a module used to monitor the electricity generated by the solar power generation system and to monitor whether each component constituting the solar power generation system is operating normally. The monitoring module may include a processor and a communication unit to receive, display, or notify information from the control module 730 related to the electricity generated by the solar power generation module 710, the electricity converted by the inverter module 740, and the operating status of each component constituting the solar power generation module 710.

[0127] A power grid (not shown) can refer to an electrical network as a system through which electricity is supplied. Figure 7 In this system, the DC power generated by the solar power generation module 710 can be converted into AC power by the inverter module 740 and supplied to the power grid. The power supplied to the power grid can then be supplied to devices and / or locations that require power.

[0128] Figure 8a This is a diagram illustrating the transient voltage detection circuit of an MLPE according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8b This is a graph showing the power line communication signal output from the receive filter in the communication unit of the MLPE, and... Figure 8c This is a graph showing the power line communication signal output from the receiving filter in the communication unit of the MLPE when plasma discharge occurs.

[0129] Reference Figure 8a The MLPE 720 may include a DC / DC converter 721, a processor 722, a communication unit 723, and a noise detection circuit 727-1.

[0130] DC / DC converter 721 can convert the voltage generated and input by the solar power module. Under the control of processor 722, DC / DC converter 721 can convert the input voltage into the desired voltage within a finite time. The finite time and the desired voltage can be determined by processor 722. DC / DC converter 721 can be implemented as, for example, a buck converter, but is not limited to this.

[0131] Processor 722 can control components within MLPE 720. Specifically, processor 722 can request DC / DC converter 721 to convert to the required voltage within a finite time. The finite time and / or the required voltage can be determined directly by processor 722, or it can be information received from communication unit 723. Additionally, processor 722 can control communication unit 723 to transmit and receive necessary information with the control module. Processor 722 can control communication unit 723 to transmit necessary data and can process data received through communication unit 723.

[0132] The communication unit 723 may include a receive filter (Rx filter) 724, a transmit filter (Tx filter) 725, and a communication IC 726. When the communication unit 723 supports bidirectional communication, it may include both the Rx filter 724 and the Tx filter 725; however, when it supports unidirectional communication, it may only include the Rx filter 724. The MLPE 720 primarily supports power line communication (PLC), therefore the communication IC 726 may be a chip that supports power line communication. However, the MLPE 720 may also support other types of communication and may include corresponding communication chips.

[0133] Figure 8b Measure the signal at point 810 output from Rx filter 724. (Refer to...) Figure 8b The power line communication signal output from the Rx filter 724 can vary in amplitude within a certain voltage range. The power line communication signal can be a signal with a frequency within a certain interval. Figure 8b The diagram shows an ideal signal without noise, but in real-world situations, various types of noise can be included.

[0134] As an example, Figure 8c The signal, including noise, output from the Rx filter 724 at point 810 when a plasma discharge occurs is shown. (Refer to...) Figure 8c Signal strength greater than Figure 8b The signal strength measured is not a signal with a frequency within a certain range. The MLPE 720 is connected via a connector, and poor contact can lead to plasma discharge or plasma arcing. If plasma discharge or plasma arcing occurs, not only does the risk of fire increase, but internal components of the solar power system could also be damaged, which would be problematic.

[0135] The noise detection circuit 727-1 can be a circuit used to detect noise such as plasma arcs. Figure 8aIn the noise detection circuit 727-1, a diode, a resistor, and a capacitor may be included. In the noise detection circuit 727-1, the input terminal of the diode can be connected to the output terminal of the Rx filter 724, and the output terminal of the diode can be connected to one terminal of both the resistor and the capacitor. Additionally, the output terminal of the diode can be connected to the processor 722, and the signal generated at the output terminal of the diode can be input to the processor 722. As described above, one terminal of the resistor and one terminal of the capacitor can be connected to the output terminal of the diode, and both other terminals can be grounded. The point 820 where the resistor, capacitor, and output terminal of the diode are connected can be at a predetermined voltage due to the capacitor, and when a voltage greater than this voltage is input to the input terminal of the diode, a signal can be generated at the output terminal of the diode. The predetermined voltage may be referred to as the reference voltage, and this voltage can be between 1 V and 2.5 V when the processor 722 operates at 3.3 V. This voltage is preferably 2.5 V.

[0136] According to one embodiment, when a signal is generated from the noise detection circuit 727-1 and input to the processor 722, the processor 722 can control the DC / DC converter 721 to stop its operation. Subsequently, when the signal input from the noise detection circuit 727-1 is no longer input, the processor 722 can control the DC / DC converter 721 to resume operation.

[0137] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the transient voltage detection circuit of an MLPE according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0138] Reference Figure 9 The MLPE 720 may include a DC / DC converter 721, a processor 722, a communication unit 723, and a noise detection circuit 727-2. The DC / DC converter 721, processor 722, and communication unit 723 are connected to... Figure 8a Those that are the same or similar as those described in the text, and therefore their descriptions are omitted here.

[0139] The noise detection circuit 727-2 can be a circuit used for detecting noise. Figure 9In the noise detection circuit 727-2, a diode, multiple capacitors, and an operational amplifier may be included. In the noise detection circuit 727-2, the input terminal of the diode can be connected to the output terminal of the Rx filter 724, and the output terminal of the diode can be connected to one terminal of the first capacitor and one input terminal of the operational amplifier. The other input terminal of the operational amplifier can be connected to one terminal of the second capacitor. Both the other terminals of the first and second capacitors can be grounded. Finally, the output terminal of the operational amplifier can be connected to the processor 722, and the signal generated at the output terminal of the operational amplifier can be input to the processor 722. According to this configuration, one input terminal of the operational amplifier can receive a signal only when it is at or above a certain voltage due to the diode and the first capacitor, and the other input terminal of the operational amplifier can be at a predetermined voltage due to the second capacitor. Therefore, the output terminal of the operational amplifier can output a signal generated by the voltage difference between the two input terminals of the operational amplifier. Here, the point 910 connecting one terminal of the second capacitor and the other input terminal of the operational amplifier can be at a predetermined voltage due to the second capacitor, which can be... Figure 8a The predetermined voltage is the same. For example, in Figure 8a In this context, the predetermined voltage can be referred to as the reference voltage, and this voltage can be between 1 V and 2.5 V when the processor 722 is operating at 3.3 V. The voltage is preferably 2.5 V.

[0140] According to one embodiment, when a signal is generated from the noise detection circuit 727-2 and input to the processor 722, the processor 722 can stop the operation of the DC / DC converter 721. Thereafter, when the signal input from the noise detection circuit 727-2 is no longer input, the processor 722 can resume operation of the DC / DC converter 721.

[0141] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating a transient voltage detection circuit for an MLPE according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0142] Reference Figure 10 The MLPE 720 may include a DC / DC converter 721, a processor 722, a communication unit 723, and a noise detection circuit 727-3. (As in...) Figure 9 In the middle, the DC / DC converter 721, the processor 722, and the communication unit 723 are... Figure 8a Those that are the same or similar as those described in the text, and therefore their descriptions are omitted here.

[0143] The noise detection circuit 727-3 can be a circuit used for detecting noise. Figure 10In the noise detection circuit 727-3, a diode, multiple capacitors, and an operational amplifier may be included. In the noise detection circuit 727-3, the input terminal of the diode can be connected to the output terminal of the Rx filter 724, and the output terminal of the diode can be connected to one terminal of the first capacitor and one input terminal of the operational amplifier. The other input terminal of the operational amplifier can be connected to one terminal of the second capacitor. Both the other terminals of the first and second capacitors can be grounded. Finally, the output terminal of the operational amplifier can be connected to a DC / DC converter 721, and the signal generated at the output terminal of the operational amplifier can be input to the DC / DC converter 721. According to this configuration, one input terminal of the operational amplifier can receive a signal only when it is at or above a certain voltage due to the diode and the first capacitor, and the other input terminal of the operational amplifier can be at a predetermined voltage due to the second capacitor. Therefore, the output terminal of the operational amplifier can output a signal generated by the voltage difference between the two input terminals of the operational amplifier. Here, the point 1010 where one terminal of the second capacitor and the other input terminal of the operational amplifier are connected can be at a predetermined voltage due to the second capacitor, which can be... Figure 8a The predetermined voltage is the same. For example, in Figure 8a and Figure 9 In this context, the predetermined voltage can be referred to as the reference voltage, and this voltage can be between 1 V and 2.5 V when the processor 722 is operating at 3.3 V. The voltage is preferably 2.5 V.

[0144] According to one embodiment, when a signal is generated from the noise detection circuit 727-3 and input to the DC / DC converter 721, the DC / DC converter 721 can stop its operation. Thereafter, when the signal input from the noise detection circuit 727-3 is no longer input, the DC / DC converter 721 can resume operation. At this time, the DC / DC converter 721 can notify the processor 722 whether it is operating.

[0145] In the third embodiment, since the noise detection circuit 727-3 is directly connected to the DC / DC converter 721, the operation of the DC / DC converter 721 can stop earlier than in the first and second embodiments, thereby achieving a faster response.

[0146] Although embodiments have been described above, these embodiments are merely examples and do not limit the invention. Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and applications not shown above are possible without departing from the essential characteristics of these embodiments. For example, each component specifically shown in the embodiments can be modified and implemented. Furthermore, differences associated with such modifications and applications should be interpreted as including within the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. In a solar power generation system including an inverter module that converts electric power generated from a solar array or a solar panel, wherein, The inverter module operates as a master module, and the solar array or solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module. A method for controlling the operation of an inverter module for a solar array or solar panel includes: The module receives a registration request with an ID (identifier). Register the received ID and generate a corresponding unique ID; and The generated unique ID and registration completion signal are transmitted to the slave module. The slave module and the master module communicate using a PLC (Power Line Communication).

2. The method for operating an inverter module for controlling a solar array or solar panel according to claim 1 further includes: The generated individual ID and the registration completion signal are repeatedly transmitted to the slave module.

3. In a solar power generation system that includes an inverter module for converting electricity generated from a solar array or solar panel, wherein, The inverter module operates as a master module, and the solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module. A method for operating a solar panel registered in the inverter module includes: Confirm whether the PLC (Power Line Communication) used by the slave module and the master module for communication is in use; If the PLC is not in use, then the PLC is used to transmit the ID (identifier) ​​to the main module; and Receive the ID registration completion signal from the main module.

4. The method of operating a solar panel for registration in an inverter module according to claim 3, wherein, The step of confirming whether the PLC used by the slave module and the master module for communication is to use a busy signal to confirm whether the PLC is in use.

5. The method of operating a solar panel for registration in an inverter module according to claim 3, further comprising: If the PLC is not in use, the ID is transmitted to the main module at random intervals using the PLC.

6. The method of operating a solar panel for registration in an inverter module according to claim 3, wherein, The ID registration completion signal received from the master module also includes the ID assigned to the slave module by the master module.

7. The method of operating a solar panel for registration in an inverter module according to claim 3, wherein, The ID is a unique value assigned to the slave module during manufacturing.

8. In a solar power generation system that includes an inverter module for converting electricity generated from a solar array or solar panel, wherein, The inverter module operates as a master module, and the solar array or solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module. An inverter module for controlling a solar array or solar panel includes: A PLC (Power Line Communication) communication module receives a registration request for an ID (identifier) ​​from the slave module and transmits a generated unique ID and a registration completion signal to the slave module; and A controller that registers the received IDs and generates a unique ID corresponding to them. The slave module and the master module communicate using a PLC.

9. The inverter module for controlling a solar array or solar panel according to claim 8, wherein, The PLC communication module repeatedly transmits the generated unique ID and the registration completion signal to the slave module.

10. In a solar power generation system that includes an inverter module for converting electricity generated from a solar array or solar panel, wherein, The inverter module operates as a master module, and the solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module. A solar panel for registration in the inverter module includes: The controller confirms whether the PLC (Power Line Communication) used by the slave module and the master module for communication is in use; and If the PLC is not in use, the PLC communication module uses the PLC to transmit an ID (identifier) ​​to the main module and receives an ID registration completion signal from the main module.

11. The solar panel for registration in an inverter module according to claim 10, wherein, The controller uses a busy signal to confirm whether the PLC is in use.

12. The solar panel for registration in an inverter module according to claim 10, wherein, If the PLC is not in use, the PLC communication module uses the PLC to transmit the ID to the main module at random intervals.

13. The solar panel for registration in an inverter module according to claim 10, wherein, The ID registration completion signal received from the master module also includes the ID assigned to the slave module by the master module.

14. The solar panel for registration in an inverter module according to claim 10, wherein, The ID is a unique value assigned to the slave module during manufacturing.

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