Photovoltaic combiner box and photovoltaic system

Abstract

The utility model is suitable for the field of photovoltaic technology, and provides a photovoltaic combiner box and a photovoltaic system. The photovoltaic combiner box comprises a photovoltaic array which comprises a plurality of photovoltaic strings; the first end of the DC-DC converter is electrically connected with the output end of the photovoltaic array; the first end of the energy storage module is electrically connected with the second end of the DC-DC converter, and the photovoltaic array supplies power to the energy storage module through the DC-DC converter. According to the photovoltaic combiner box provided by the embodiment of the utility model, the energy storage module electrically connected with the output end of the photovoltaic array is integrated in the photovoltaic combiner box. Therefore, the energy storage module can take electricity in the photovoltaic combiner box 1, the photovoltaic combiner box does not need to be additionally connected with energy storage equipment to take electricity, and the cost and difficulty of taking electricity from the photovoltaic combiner box are reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of photovoltaic technology, and in particular to a photovoltaic combiner box and a photovoltaic system. Background Technology

[0002] The main function of a photovoltaic combiner box is to collect the current output from photovoltaic modules and transmit it to the inverter, while also providing basic functions such as overcurrent protection, overvoltage protection, and monitoring.

[0003] In related technologies, photovoltaic combiner boxes themselves do not have energy storage capabilities and require the connection of an additional energy storage module to draw power from the photovoltaic combiner box. The energy storage module is set up separately and is completely isolated from the photovoltaic combiner box, so the cost and difficulty of drawing power from the photovoltaic combiner box are relatively high.

[0004] Therefore, how to design photovoltaic combiner boxes to reduce the cost and difficulty of drawing electricity from them has become an urgent problem to be solved. Utility Model Content

[0005] This utility model provides a photovoltaic combiner box and a photovoltaic system. The photovoltaic combiner box is designed to reduce the cost and difficulty of setting up power extraction from the photovoltaic combiner box.

[0006] This utility model is implemented as follows: It provides a photovoltaic combiner box and a photovoltaic system. The photovoltaic combiner box includes: a photovoltaic array comprising multiple photovoltaic strings; a DC-DC converter, the first terminal of which is electrically connected to the output terminal of the photovoltaic array; and an energy storage module, the first terminal of which is electrically connected to the second terminal of the DC-DC converter. The photovoltaic array supplies power to the energy storage module through the DC-DC converter.

[0007] Furthermore, the photovoltaic combiner box also includes a protection switch located in the power supply path from the photovoltaic array to the energy storage module. The protection switch is configured to receive a first signal and open or close according to the first signal.

[0008] Furthermore, the photovoltaic combiner box also includes a monitoring module, which samples the output current of the photovoltaic array and extracts the sampled current; the monitoring module also samples the output voltage of the photovoltaic array and extracts the sampled voltage; the monitoring module outputs the first signal to the protection switch based on the sampled current and the sampled voltage, and controls the protection switch to open or close.

[0009] Furthermore, the photovoltaic combiner box also includes a voltage sampling point located between the photovoltaic array and the protection switch. The monitoring module samples the output voltage of the photovoltaic array to the energy storage module through the voltage sampling point.

[0010] Furthermore, the photovoltaic combiner box also includes a current sampling point located at the output end of the photovoltaic string. The monitoring module samples the output current of the photovoltaic array through the current sampling point.

[0011] Furthermore, each of the photovoltaic modules is connected in series and parallel.

[0012] Furthermore, the energy storage module includes several batteries or several capacitors.

[0013] This utility model embodiment also provides a photovoltaic system, which includes a photovoltaic inverter, a power grid, and a photovoltaic combiner box as described above; the output terminal of the photovoltaic combiner box is electrically connected to the input terminal of the photovoltaic inverter, and the output terminal of the photovoltaic inverter is electrically connected to the power grid.

[0014] Furthermore, the photovoltaic system also includes a back-end controller, which is communicatively connected to both the photovoltaic inverter and the photovoltaic combiner box.

[0015] The photovoltaic combiner box of this utility model integrates an energy storage module electrically connected to the output terminal of the photovoltaic array within the photovoltaic combiner box. This allows the energy storage module to draw power from within the photovoltaic combiner box 1, eliminating the need for an additional energy storage device to be connected to the photovoltaic combiner box, thus reducing the cost and difficulty of drawing power from the photovoltaic combiner box. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments recorded in this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0017] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the module structure of a photovoltaic combiner box provided in an embodiment of this utility model;

[0018] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a photovoltaic combiner box provided in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the module structure of a photovoltaic system provided in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Key component symbols: 1000, Photovoltaic system; 100, Photovoltaic combiner box; 200, Photovoltaic inverter; 300, Power grid; 400, Back-end controller; 10, Photovoltaic array; 20, DC-DC converter; 30, Energy storage module; 40, Protection switch; 50, Monitoring module; A, Voltage sampling point; B, Current sampling point; 11, Photovoltaic string. Detailed Implementation

[0021] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present utility model, and should not be construed as limiting the present utility model. Furthermore, it should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely for explaining the present utility model and are not intended to limit the present utility model.

[0022] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "length", "width", "upper", "lower", "top", "bottom", "lateral", "longitudinal", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this utility model.

[0023] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the stated features. In the description of this utility model, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0024] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows for communication; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0025] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0026] The following disclosure provides numerous different embodiments or examples for implementing various structures of the present invention. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described below. These are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Furthermore, reference numerals and / or letters may be repeated in different examples; such repetition is for simplification and clarity and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or arrangements discussed. In addition, examples of various specific processes and materials are provided in this invention; however, those skilled in the art will recognize the application of other processes and / or the use of other materials.

[0027] Please see Figure 1 and Figure 2 The photovoltaic combiner box 100 in this embodiment of the present invention includes: a photovoltaic array 10, a DC-DC converter 20, and an energy storage module 30. The photovoltaic array 10 includes multiple photovoltaic strings 11; the first terminal of the DC-DC converter 20 is electrically connected to the output terminal of the photovoltaic array 10; the first terminal of the energy storage module 30 is electrically connected to the second terminal of the DC-DC converter 20, and the photovoltaic array 10 supplies power to the energy storage module 30 through the DC-DC converter 20.

[0028] Thus, by integrating an energy storage module 30 electrically connected to the output of the photovoltaic array 10 within the photovoltaic combiner box 100, the energy storage module 30 can draw power from within the photovoltaic combiner box 100. This eliminates the need for additional energy storage devices to be connected to the photovoltaic combiner box 100, reducing the cost and difficulty of drawing power from it.

[0029] Simultaneously, the photovoltaic array 10 and the energy storage module 30 are integrated within the photovoltaic combiner box 100. The photovoltaic combiner box 100 can directly utilize the electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic array 10 to charge the energy storage module 30. The electrical energy used to charge the photovoltaic array 10 does not require multi-stage conversion, reducing energy conversion losses and improving the overall efficiency of the photovoltaic combiner box 100. Furthermore, it simplifies the design of the photovoltaic system 1000 and reduces costs.

[0030] Specifically, the photovoltaic array 10 includes multiple photovoltaic strings 11, each photovoltaic string 11 including several photovoltaic cells. The photovoltaic array 10 is capable of converting solar energy into direct current. The photovoltaic array 10 is the core of the entire photovoltaic combiner box 100, responsible for generating electrical energy.

[0031] In one possible implementation, each photovoltaic string 11 is connected in parallel. In a parallel connection, the voltage of each photovoltaic string 11 is equal, but the current is added together according to the number of strings. Therefore, if the lighting conditions of one photovoltaic string 11 are poor, the other photovoltaic strings 11 can still function, ensuring a stable current output from the overall system. By connecting the photovoltaic strings 11 in parallel, a stable current output from the photovoltaic array 10 can be ensured, reducing power fluctuations caused by the failure of a single photovoltaic string 11. At the same time, the photovoltaic combiner box 100 can efficiently manage the current output of the parallel photovoltaic strings 11, providing a stable power input to the energy storage module 30.

[0032] Furthermore, the DC-DC converter 20 is a key power conversion device, whose function is to regulate voltage and current to ensure that the electrical energy output from the photovoltaic array 10 can be effectively utilized. The first terminal of the DC-DC converter 20 is electrically connected to the output terminal of the photovoltaic array 10. The DC-DC converter 20 converts the voltage of the photovoltaic array 10 into a voltage suitable for charging the energy storage module 30, while ensuring stable power output.

[0033] Specifically, the DC-DC converter 20 can boost or boost the voltage of the photovoltaic array 10, thereby adjusting the voltage to the range required by the energy storage module 30. The DC-DC converter 20 can boost the voltage when the power output of the photovoltaic array 10 is low, or boost the voltage when the voltage of the photovoltaic array 10 is high, so as to stably supply power to the energy storage module 30, and the energy storage module 30 can stably draw power from the photovoltaic array 10.

[0034] Furthermore, the primary function of the energy storage module 30 is to store the electrical energy obtained from the photovoltaic array 10 for use by the subsequent power grid 300 and other electrical devices. The first terminal of the energy storage module 30 is electrically connected to the second terminal of the DC-DC converter 20, and the photovoltaic array 10 supplies power to the energy storage module 30 through the DC-DC converter 20. During periods of sufficient sunlight, the energy storage module 30 stores excess electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic array 10.

[0035] In one possible implementation, the energy storage module 30 includes several batteries and / or several capacitors. Specifically, the batteries include several battery cells, and common battery types include lithium batteries, lead-acid batteries, sodium-ion batteries, etc. These batteries are capable of storing the electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic array 10 for later use.

[0036] like Figure 2 As shown, in one possible implementation, the photovoltaic combiner box 100 further includes a protection switch 40. The protection switch 40 is located in the power supply path from the photovoltaic array 10 to the energy storage module 30. The protection switch 40 is configured to receive a first signal and open or close according to the first signal. Thus, by setting the protection switch 40, it can be ensured that the power supply path can be quickly disconnected in the event of overload, short circuit, or fault in the photovoltaic combiner box 100, stopping the photovoltaic array 10 from supplying power to the energy storage module 30, and preventing safety hazards such as damage to the photovoltaic combiner box 100 or fire.

[0037] Meanwhile, the protection switch 40 also prevents backflow. Backflow of power from the energy storage module 30 to the photovoltaic array 10 would damage the photovoltaic array 10. Therefore, to prevent backflow, the protection switch 40 is located on the power supply path from the photovoltaic array 10 to the energy storage module 30. In this way, in the event of backflow, the protection switch 40 can be disconnected to prevent backflow and extend the service life of the photovoltaic combiner box 100.

[0038] Specifically, regarding the connection method of the protection switch 40, the first end of the protection switch 40 is electrically connected to the output end of the photovoltaic array 10, and the first end of the protection switch 40 is electrically connected to the first end of the DC-DC converter.

[0039] Furthermore, in one possible implementation, the photovoltaic combiner box 100 also includes a monitoring module 50, which samples the current of the photovoltaic array 10 and extracts the sampled current; the monitoring module 50 also samples the output voltage of the photovoltaic array 10 and extracts the sampled voltage; the monitoring module 50 outputs a first signal to the protection switch 40 based on the sampled current and the sampled current, and controls the protection switch 40 to open or close.

[0040] Thus, by setting up the monitoring module 50, the output current and output voltage of the photovoltaic array 10 can be sampled. Monitoring the output current and output voltage of the photovoltaic array 10 helps to promptly detect potential problems in the photovoltaic combiner box 100, such as current overload, voltage abnormality, and excessively low or high power of the energy storage module 30. At the same time, the monitoring module 50 can also output a first signal based on the sampled signal to control the protection switch 40 to open or close, ensuring that the current path can be disconnected in time when the photovoltaic combiner box 100 malfunctions, avoiding damage to the photovoltaic combiner box 100 or other safety hazards.

[0041] For example, when the energy storage module 30 supplies power to the photovoltaic array 10, the monitoring module 50 can disconnect the protection switch 40 in time to cut off the conductive path between the photovoltaic array 10 and the energy storage module 30, ensuring the safety of the photovoltaic combiner box 100 and improving the overall stability and reliability of the photovoltaic combiner box 100.

[0042] Specifically, the monitoring module 50 includes a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a microcontroller, or a microprocessor. The monitoring module 50 can use an FPGA, a microcontroller, or a microprocessor as its core component. The specific choice depends on the complexity and cost factors of the monitoring module 50, in order to achieve the flexibility of the monitoring module 50.

[0043] For example, the monitoring module 50 may include a field-programmable gate array of model XC6SLX9, EP4CE6E22C8N or XC7A35T.

[0044] For example, the monitoring module 50 may include a microcontroller of the model number Atmel ATmega2560, Microchip PIC16F877A, or STMicroelectronics STM32F103C8T6.

[0045] For example, the monitoring module 50 may include a microcontroller chip of model number NXP LPC1768, Texas Instruments TMS320F28069, or LPC1768.

[0046] Furthermore, regarding the sampling method of the monitoring module 50, in one possible implementation, the photovoltaic combiner box 100 also includes a voltage sampling point A, located between the photovoltaic array 10 and the protection switch 40. The monitoring module 50 samples the output voltage of the photovoltaic array 10 to the energy storage module 30 through the voltage sampling point A. Thus, the monitoring module 50 can be electrically connected to the voltage sampling point A to sample the output voltage from the photovoltaic array 10 to the energy storage module 30.

[0047] Specifically, a voltage sensor or voltage sampling circuit can be set at voltage sampling point A to obtain accurate voltage values.

[0048] Furthermore, regarding the sampling method of the monitoring module 50, in one possible implementation, the photovoltaic combiner box 100 further includes a current sampling point B, which is located at the output terminal of the photovoltaic string 11. The monitoring module 50 samples the output current of the photovoltaic array 10 through the current sampling point B. Thus, the monitoring module 50 can be electrically connected to the current sampling point B to sample the output current from the photovoltaic array 10 to the energy storage module 30.

[0049] Specifically, the number of current sampling points B is matched with the number of photovoltaic strings 11, and the monitoring module 50 can be electrically connected to multiple current sampling points B simultaneously.

[0050] Specifically, a current sensor, such as a Hall effect sensor or a shunt resistor, can be installed at current sampling point B to accurately sense and monitor the output current of the photovoltaic string 11.

[0051] like Figure 3 As shown, the photovoltaic system 1000 in this embodiment of the present invention includes: a photovoltaic inverter 200, a power grid 300, and the aforementioned photovoltaic combiner box 100. The output terminal of the photovoltaic combiner box 100 is electrically connected to the input terminal of the photovoltaic inverter 200, and the output terminal of the photovoltaic inverter 200 is electrically connected to the power grid 300.

[0052] Specifically, the main function of the photovoltaic inverter 200 is to convert the direct current (DC) output from the photovoltaic array 10 into alternating current (AC), and then output the AC to the power grid 300. The input terminal of the photovoltaic inverter 200 is electrically connected to the output terminal of the photovoltaic combiner box 100. Thus, the electrical energy generated by the photovoltaic array 10 is collected by the photovoltaic combiner box 100 and then transmitted to the photovoltaic inverter 200 for conversion. The photovoltaic system 1000 can convert solar energy from the photovoltaic array 10 into electrical energy and transmit it to the power grid 300, thereby providing clean energy to the power grid 300.

[0053] Furthermore, in one possible implementation, the photovoltaic system 1000 also includes a back-end controller 400, which is communicatively connected to both the photovoltaic inverter 200 and the photovoltaic combiner box 100. Thus, through the configuration of the back-end controller 400, centralized monitoring and optimized control of the photovoltaic inverter 200 and the photovoltaic combiner box 100 can be achieved.

[0054] Specifically, the background controller 400 can communicate and coordinate with the photovoltaic inverter 200 and the photovoltaic combiner box 100 to obtain the operating status information of the photovoltaic inverter 200 and the photovoltaic combiner box 100.

[0055] The backend controller 400 can connect to the photovoltaic inverter 200 via a communication interface to obtain data such as the output current, voltage, and power of the photovoltaic inverter 200, and monitor the operating status of the photovoltaic inverter 200. If an abnormal situation occurs, such as a malfunction of the photovoltaic inverter 200 or a power output that does not meet the standard, the backend controller 400 can send an alarm or control signal, activate the protection mechanism, and shut down the photovoltaic inverter 200 to ensure the safety of the photovoltaic system 1000.

[0056] The backend controller 400 can connect to the photovoltaic combiner box 100 via a communication interface to obtain the operating status data of each component within the photovoltaic combiner box 100, such as the current and voltage of the photovoltaic array 10, the operating status of the DC-DC converter 20, and the charging status of the energy storage module 30. The backend controller 400 can analyze the power generation efficiency of the entire system using this data and make adjustments. In case of abnormalities, such as a malfunction of the photovoltaic combiner box 100 or a power output that does not meet standards, the backend controller 400 can send alarm or control signals, activate the protection mechanism, and shut down the photovoltaic combiner box 100 to ensure the safety of the photovoltaic system 1000.

[0057] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiments," "examples," "specific examples," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0058] Furthermore, the above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A photovoltaic combiner box, characterized in that, include: A photovoltaic array consists of multiple photovoltaic strings; A DC-DC converter, wherein the first terminal of the DC-DC converter is electrically connected to the output terminal of the photovoltaic array; An energy storage module, wherein a first terminal of the energy storage module is electrically connected to a second terminal of the DC-DC converter, and the photovoltaic array supplies power to the energy storage module through the DC-DC converter.

2. The photovoltaic combiner box according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a protection switch located in the power supply path of the photovoltaic array to the energy storage module. The protection switch is configured to receive a first signal and open or close according to the first signal.

3. The photovoltaic combiner box according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a monitoring module, which samples the output current of the photovoltaic array and extracts the sampled current; the monitoring module also samples the output voltage of the photovoltaic array and extracts the sampled voltage; the monitoring module outputs the first signal to the protection switch according to the sampled current and the sampled current, and controls the protection switch to open or close.

4. The photovoltaic combiner box according to claim 3, characterized in that, It also includes a voltage sampling point, which is located between the photovoltaic array and the protection switch. The monitoring module samples the output voltage of the photovoltaic array to the energy storage module through the voltage sampling point.

5. The photovoltaic combiner box according to claim 3, characterized in that, It also includes a current sampling point, which is located at the output end of the photovoltaic string. The monitoring module samples the output current of the photovoltaic array through the current sampling point.

6. The photovoltaic combiner box according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the photovoltaic modules is connected in series and parallel.

7. The photovoltaic combiner box according to claim 1, characterized in that, The energy storage module includes several batteries or several capacitors.

8. The photovoltaic combiner box according to claim 3, characterized in that, The monitoring module includes a field-programmable gate array, a microcontroller, or a single-chip microcomputer.

9. A photovoltaic system, characterized in that, include: Photovoltaic inverter, power grid, and photovoltaic combiner box as described in any one of claims 1 to 8; The output terminal of the photovoltaic combiner box is electrically connected to the input terminal of the photovoltaic inverter, and the output terminal of the photovoltaic inverter is electrically connected to the power grid.

10. The photovoltaic system according to claim 9, characterized in that, Also includes: A background controller is communicatively connected to both the photovoltaic inverter and the photovoltaic combiner box.

Images