Inverter housings, especially photovoltaic inverter housings

Abstract

Inverter housing (1), in particular a photovoltaic inverter housing, with a base shell (2) having at least one base plate (3) and a plurality of side walls (4), wherein the base shell (2) is divided by at least one partition wall (6) into at least one connection area (7) and at least one power area (8), and the connection area (7) and the power area (8) are each covered by at least one cover (5), characterized in that the covers (5) are at least partially double-walled, and air inlets (10) for sucking in cooling air (K) are arranged in an intermediate space (Z) of the at least partially double-walled covers (5), which at least one cover (5) of the power area (8) includes at least two lower parts (5''), wherein a lower part (5'') of the cover (5) of the power area (8) has a receptacle (15) for power components (26),in the power area (8) of the base shell (2), hinges (25) are provided for the pivotable arrangement of at least a part of at least one cover (5) of the power area (8) and of power components (26), and that at least one side wall (4') of the base shell (2) adjacent to the connection area (7) has feedthroughs (23) with seals (24) for the passage of connecting lines (L), and at least one side wall (4) is designed to be openable.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an inverter housing, in particular a photovoltaic inverter housing, with a base shell having at least one base plate and a plurality of side walls, wherein the base shell is divided by at least one partition wall into at least one connection area and at least one power area, and the connection area and the power area are each covered by at least one cover.

[0002] The inverter housing in question is intended in particular, but not exclusively, for accommodating photovoltaic inverters, primarily in the higher power ranges of approximately 50 kW to 100 kW.

[0003] Inverter housings are described, for example, in DE 20 2015 102 978 U1, EP 2 006 988 A1 or DE 20 2009 006 709 U1.

[0004] Housings for other electrical devices are known from DE 102 44 473 A1, DE 10 2012 205 972 A1, US 4 599 680 A, US 2004 / 0201972 A1 or WO 2008 / 129134 A1.

[0005] Previous inverter housings, especially in higher power ranges, are relatively large and usually require two people for installation. Commissioning and maintenance of such inverters also usually requires considerable effort, as various components of the inverter housing must be removed, which is time-consuming, to establish the necessary connections to the energy sources, such as photovoltaic modules, and the power grid, or to access the inverter components that need to be checked or replaced.

[0006] Many inverter enclosures are unsuitable for outdoor use because they are not waterproof or because excessive sunlight prevents the inverter from operating due to the high temperatures inside the enclosure. While additional structural measures and cooling methods can improve this, this negatively impacts manufacturing costs and the energy balance.

[0007] WO 2017 / 046041 A1 describes an inverter housing of the type in question, wherein a fan embedded in a heat sink is arranged behind a cover provided with an air inlet.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to create an inverter housing as described above that allows for easy assembly and disassembly, as well as commissioning and maintenance of the inverter. Furthermore, the inverter housing should be suitable for outdoor use and protect the inverter from weather and rain as well as solar radiation. Cost-effective production of the inverter housing should enable its widespread use at low cost.

[0009] The object of the invention is achieved in that the covers are at least partially double-walled, and air inlets for sucking in cooling air are arranged in the space between the at least partially double-walled covers, the at least one cover of the power area includes at least two lower parts, wherein a lower part of the cover of the power area has a receptacle for power components, hinges for the pivotable arrangement of at least part of at least one cover of the power area and of power components are provided in the power area of ​​the base shell, and that at least one side wall of the base shell adjacent to the connection area has feedthroughs with seals for the feedthrough of connection lines, and at least one side wall is designed to be openable.By dividing the inverter housing into a connection area and a power area, assembly and disassembly can be simplified and safety regulations can be met. By providing at least two of these areas of the inverter housing with separate covers, easy access to the sub-areas of the inverter housing, for example the connection area for making connections, is possible. The at least partially double-walled design of the covers of the connection area and power area, together with the air inlets, for example in the cover for the power area, enables air circulation and prevents the inverter from overheating, even in strong sunlight. This means that an inverter equipped with this inverter housing can also be used in particularly warm regions with intense sunlight without having to worry about overheating.Despite its advantages and special features, the inverter housing is characterized by its simple design and cost-effective implementation.

[0010] The fact that at least one cover of the power range contains at least two sub-sections further supports a modular design of an inverter. For example, the power range of the inverter housing can be divided into two parts, allowing the inverter housing to be used for a smaller power range of, say, 50 kW by equipping only one part of the power range with the corresponding power components, while the other part of the power range is provided with a blank cover. The same inverter housing can also be used for a higher power range of, say, 100 kW by equipping both parts of the power range with the corresponding power components.In another variant, the same inverter housing can be equipped with a corresponding power component in one part of the power range and with a DC booster module in the other part of the power range.

[0011] Furthermore, at least one lower section of the cover of the power section has a holder or similar for power components. The fact that components of the inverter's power section can be arranged on the cover or on part of the cover of the power section supports both the commissioning of the inverter and its maintenance. Furthermore, the close-to-surface mounting of the power components results in a better cooling effect due to the passing cooling air. Cooling can be further improved if power components protrude at least partially from the cover level or the level of the lower section of the cover, which increases the cooling surface and thus the cooling effect. When opening the cover of the power section, maintenance personnel can quickly and easily remove the cover and then remove the lower section together with the power component housed therein and inspect or replace it.Furthermore, when the lower part of the cover of the power compartment is lifted off together with the power component contained therein, access to the components located underneath is automatically enabled.

[0012] Hinges are provided in the power compartment of the base shell of the inverter housing for pivoting at least a portion of at least one cover of the power compartment and power components. This facilitates the assembly and disassembly of components as well as access to the equipment located behind them. For example, the lower part(s) of the cover of the power compartment, which can also be designed to accommodate power components, is attached to the base shell of the inverter housing via such hinges. Ideally, one person can easily disassemble the inverter housing and maintain the inverter without the assistance of another person.

[0013] Finally, at least one side wall of the inverter's base shell adjacent to the connection area has feedthroughs with seals for the passage of connecting cables. This can facilitate the connection and disconnection of the DC and AC cables to the photovoltaic modules or the power grid.

[0014] The fact that at least one side panel is designed to be openable further simplifies the arrangement of the cables to be connected, which is often challenging with cables with larger cross-sections and larger diameters. Such cables can only be bent or threaded with considerable force. By temporarily removing the side panels, the cables can be easily swung from the side to the corresponding connection terminals without having to bend them near or inside the inverter housing. This also significantly reduces the risk of injury.

[0015] Preferably, the at least one cover of the power section consists of a cover having air inlets and at least one lower part spaced apart from the cover. This enables simple implementation of a double-walled cover over the power section, wherein the lower part or parts are sealed accordingly with respect to the base shell, while cooling air for cooling the components of the power section can be drawn in via the air inlets in the cover and passed through the double-walled cover of the connection section. This results in an inverter housing suitable for outdoor use, whereby the inverter is protected both from moisture and from excessive heat development due to intense sunlight. Nevertheless, the implementation of such a cover for the power section is relatively simple and cost-effective.

[0016] To achieve optimal protection of the inverter from the elements, especially from moisture, the covers of the connection area and the power area are each equipped with at least one circumferential seal. The seals of the connection area and the power area covers are arranged at different levels. By providing different sealing levels above the connection area and the power area, together with the special design of the double-walled covers and base shell, the cooling concept of the inverter housing can be further supported and safe operation of the inverter can be ensured even in strong sunlight.

[0017] Advantageously, exactly one cover is provided for the connection area and one cover for the power area, which has a cover and two base sections. This allows for the creation of an inverter housing with a modular design for different power ranges (e.g., 50 kW and 100 kW) or different applications (with or without a DC booster module).

[0018] Actuating elements and / or optical signaling elements can be arranged on at least one cover of the connection area, enabling operation of the inverter and informing the user about various operating states. To facilitate assembly and disassembly of the inverter, optoelectronic control units are particularly suitable. The actuating elements and / or optical signaling elements on the cover of the connection area are formed by corresponding optical fibers, which wirelessly transmit the light for actuation or for displaying operating states to the circuit board located below in the connection area. This allows a functional connection between the cover of the connection area and the circuit board located below it to be established even without electrical wiring.

[0019] Advantageously, at least one cover of the inverter housing, or a portion thereof, is pivotably connected to the base shell. This facilitates opening the inverter housing during commissioning, for example, to connect the DC and AC cables, or for maintenance purposes. The pivoting arrangement can be easily implemented using appropriate hinges. Using hook-in hinges further assists in removing and hooking the cover and any inverter components attached to it.

[0020] In the case of a pivotable arrangement of a cover or part thereof, it is further advantageous if at least one cover or part thereof is provided with a retaining element to hold the cover or part thereof in the open position. This leaves the assembly personnel with both hands free to perform activities inside the inverter housing.

[0021] If at least one drip edge is arranged at a suitable location on the inverter housing, the dripping or running off of rainwater can be supported. If the inverter housing is designed for both vertical installation, for example, on a house wall, and horizontal installation on the ground or a flat roof, multiple drip edges are arranged on the inverter housing to support the dripping of rainwater in each of the intended positions.

[0022] To comply with EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) regulations, copper contact elements can be arranged on at least one cover to establish a conductive connection between the cover and the base shell of the inverter housing. Such contact elements can be formed, for example, from suitably shaped copper spring elements, which automatically establish a reliable electrical connection to the underlying base shell of the inverter housing when the cover, particularly the connection area, is closed.

[0023] If at least two covers overlap each other, unauthorized opening of the inverter housing can be prevented, for example, if only the top cover is protected from opening, for example with a suitable locking device, such as a padlock that is hooked into suitable eyelets or with the help of a lock arranged directly on the cover.

[0024] If at least one cover or part of it and the base shell are provided with eyelets for accommodating a locking device, the inverter housing can be easily protected from unauthorized opening. In the simplest case, a padlock is used as a locking device.

[0025] If a coating is applied to at least part of the inverter housing, heat buildup inside due to solar radiation can be reduced and the housing can be additionally protected from corrosion. Light-colored paint coatings or corresponding thermal coatings are particularly suitable for this, as their surface properties and color support heat dissipation.

[0026] If an actuating element for connecting to a DC disconnector that can be arranged in the connection area is arranged on at least one cover of the connection area, a functional connection can be automatically established between this actuating element and the DC disconnector when the cover is closed, enabling the DC disconnector to be actuated while the inverter housing is closed, as required for various tests or maintenance. For example, an actuating element can be formed by a rotary switch that engages the DC switch below via a pluggable spindle as soon as the cover for the connection area is closed or fastened to the base shell.

[0027] If the actuating element has eyelets for accommodating a shut-off device, unauthorized operation of the DC isolator can be easily prevented. More sophisticated versions can, of course, also include corresponding key switches.

[0028] At least one side wall with feedthroughs with seals for the passage of connecting cables can be designed to be replaceable when the cover is open. The interchangeability of the side wall allows, on the one hand, different feedthrough variants for different cable cross-sections to be provided and, on the other hand, facilitates the arrangement of such cables by removing the side wall from the base shell, placing it over the cable to be connected, and then attaching it to the base shell, in particular by inserting it into the base shell.

[0029] The covers and / or housing shells are preferably made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy. Such materials are characterized by high durability, good thermal conductivity, and relatively low weight.

[0030] Hinges can be provided in the power compartment of the base shell of the inverter housing for pivoting at least a portion of at least one cover of the power compartment and power components. As already described above, this can facilitate the assembly and disassembly of components as well as access to the equipment located behind them. For example, the lower part(s) of the cover of the power compartment, which can also be designed to accommodate power components, is attached to the base shell of the inverter housing via such hinges. Ideally, one person can easily disassemble the inverter housing and maintain the inverter without the assistance of another person.

[0031] If contacts for contacting corresponding mating contacts on the power components are arranged in the pivoted-in position in the power section, a connection to the contacts and the associated other components of the inverter can be established automatically when the lower parts of the cover of the power section are arranged, without the need to establish or disconnect electrical connections.

[0032] The connection area of ​​the inverter housing can be divided by at least one partition into an AC connection area and a DC connection area, as well as a filter area if necessary. Such partitions can comply with regulations that may require separation of the AC connection area and the DC connection area and also provide contact protection for maintenance personnel.

[0033] In the DC connection area, at least two connection levels can be provided in series for the arrangement of string fuses, as is commonly used for protecting strings on photovoltaic modules. This allows for the clear arrangement of many string fuses, allowing for quick and easy inspection or replacement in the event of a fault.

[0034] If double terminals are arranged in the AC connection area, which can be connected as needed using connecting elements such as copper bars, it is possible to connect several inverter housings in series as a so-called daisy chain without having to lay corresponding cables from each inverter to the power grid, which can sometimes be very long. This allows the AC output of one inverter to be connected to an AC output of at least one second inverter using corresponding cables, and also to establish the connection to the feed-in point. Such double terminals and appropriate dimensioning also eliminate the need for special boxes commonly used for electrically connecting multiple inverters.

[0035] To allow air circulation between the individual compartments of the connection area, individual partition walls can have holes or similar features. Such holes can also reduce the overall weight of the inverter housing.

[0036] Fans for moving the cooling air in the space are preferably arranged on at least one cover of the power section or a part thereof. Ideally, fans are arranged on the at least one lower part of the cover for the power section. These fans draw in the cooling air through the air inlets in the cover to cool the hot parts of the power components connected to the at least one lower part. The cooling air is then passed on via the double-walled cover of the connection section and discharged via suitable outlets. Those electronic components that generate particularly high levels of heat, such as chokes or associated heat sinks, can protrude from the lower parts of the cover of the power section, ensuring particularly efficient cooling. The fans can be connected to suitable temperature sensors so that they only operate when certain temperatures are exceeded.

[0037] Mounting elements for either horizontal or vertical mounting can be arranged on the base plate of the inverter housing. Such mounting elements can be implemented, for example, as strips or hooks for hanging in wall brackets or racks.

[0038] If lifting eyes are arranged on the base plate, the inverter housing can be more easily manipulated using a crane.

[0039] According to a further feature of the invention, two carrying handles are provided, which can be inserted into laterally arranged receptacles on the base plate of the inverter housing. Thus, the carrying handles can serve as a base when the inverter is mounted horizontally or as a handling aid when mounted vertically.

[0040] If the carrying handles are designed to converge at an angle, the inverter housing can be tilted to match the angle of the carrying handles when mounted horizontally. This allows rainwater to drain more easily when installed outdoors.

[0041] Feet can also be arranged on the inverter housing, for example on the base plate or on the side walls, so that the inverter housing can be placed upright on the floor without the carrying handles mentioned above and without damaging the cable glands.

[0042] If the base plate and / or side walls are at least partially double-walled, further cooling of the inverter housing can be achieved by appropriately guiding the cooling air and overheating can be prevented, particularly in cases of intense solar radiation in particularly hot areas.

[0043] The at least partially double-walled side walls and / or base plate can correspond or interact with the at least partially double-walled covers of the inverter housing, so that cooling air can flow through the spaces between the base plate and / or the side walls and / or the covers to prevent heat buildup. The various spaces between the components of the inverter housing can also form a connected channel through which cooling air flows.

[0044] The present invention is explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a simplified inverter housing according to the present invention; Fig. 2 a top view of the inverter housing according to Fig. 1 in open state, ie without lid; Fig. 3 a side view of the inverter housing according to Fig. 1 with lids; Fig. 4 a sectioned side view through the inverter housing according to Fig. 1 with lids; Fig. 5 a perspective, sectional view of a more detailed embodiment of an inverter housing according to the invention with closed covers; Fig. 6 a perspective view of the inverter housing according to Fig. 5 without lid; Fig. 7 a view of the inverter housing according to Fig. 6 in exploded view and with the power components of the inverter arranged thereon; Fig. 8A to 8C various variants of interchangeable side panels for the passage of cables and lines; Fig. 9A a lower part of the cover of the power section of the inverter housing according to Fig. 5 with power component arranged thereon; Fig. 9B the lower part of the cover with the power component arranged thereon according to Fig. 9A in the view from below; Fig. 10 a view of a further embodiment of an inverter housing in a partially opened or sectioned representation; Fig. 11 a view of the inverter housing according to Fig. 5 from below or behind; Fig. 12 the inverter housing according to Fig. 5 from the rear with carrying handles arranged thereon as a manipulation aid when vertically mounted; and Fig. 13 the inverter housing according to Fig. 5 with carrying handles arranged on it as a substructure for horizontal mounting.

[0045] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a simplified inverter housing 1 according to the present invention. The inverter housing 1, in particular a photovoltaic inverter housing, includes a base shell 2, which has at least one base plate 3 and several side walls 4. The base shell 2 is closed by at least one cover 5. The main components of the inverter housing 1, in particular the base plate 3, the side walls 4, and the covers 5, are preferably made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy, which imparts the necessary robustness and resistance to the inverter housing. Other metals or even plastics are also conceivable.

[0046] The base shell 2 of the inverter housing 1 is divided by at least one partition wall 6 into at least one connection area 7 and at least one power area 8 (see Fig. 2). The separation of connection area 7, where the connections to the photovoltaic modules and the power grid are made in the case of a photovoltaic inverter, and power area 8, where the power components for converting the direct current generated by the photovoltaic modules into alternating current for feeding into the power grid are located, offers practical advantages during commissioning and maintenance of the inverter. Furthermore, this separation allows compliance with any applicable safety regulations.

[0047] Both the connection area 7 and the power area 8 are each covered by at least one cover 5, wherein the covers 5 are at least partially double-walled (see Fig. 4). By providing these at least two areas of the inverter housing with separate covers 5, easy access to the areas of the inverter housing 1, for example, the connection area 7 for making connections, is possible. Air inlets 10 are arranged on at least one cover 5 of the power area 8 or another suitable location, through which cooling air K is sucked in and suitably guided through the gaps formed by the at least partially double-walled covers 5. This ensures circulation of the cooling air K and prevents overheating of the inverter, even in strong sunlight. As a result, an inverter equipped with this inverter housing 1 can also be used in particularly warm regions with intense sunlight. The inverter housing 1 has a relatively simple and cost-effective design.

[0048] A coating 22 may be provided on parts of the inverter housing 1, in particular the covers 5, to further protect the inverter housing 1 from solar radiation. Such a coating 22 may be formed by a light-colored lacquer coating or a suitable thermal coating.

[0049] If eyelets 17 for receiving a locking device 18 are arranged on at least one cover 5 or a part thereof and on the base shell 3, the inverter housing 1 can be easily protected against unauthorized opening. In the simplest case, a padlock is used as the locking device 18. If at least two covers 5 overlap, unauthorized opening of the inverter housing 1 can be prevented, for example, if only the top cover 5 is protected from opening, for example, with a suitable locking device 18.

[0050] On the cover 5 of the connection area 7, actuating elements 11 and / or optical signaling elements 12 can be arranged, which enable operation of the inverter and inform the user about various operating states. Furthermore, an actuating element 19 for connection to a DC isolator (not shown) that can be arranged in the connection area can be arranged on the cover 5 of the connection area 7. As a result, when the cover 5 is closed, a functional connection can automatically be established between this actuating element 19 and the DC isolator, and actuation of the DC isolator is possible even when the inverter housing 1 is closed, as required for various tests or maintenance. For example, the actuating element 19 can be formed by a rotary switch. If the actuating element 19 has eyelets 21 or the like.for accommodating a shut-off device 18, operation of the DC isolator by unauthorized persons can be easily prevented.

[0051] Drip edges 14 can be arranged at suitable locations on the inverter housing 1 to assist the dripping or running off of rainwater.

[0052] As already mentioned above, the top view of the inverter housing 1 in the open state without covers 5 in Fig. 2 the subdivision of the base shell 2 by at least one partition wall 6 into the connection area 7 and the power area 8. The connection area 7 and power area 8 can in turn be divided into sub-areas by corresponding partition walls (not shown).

[0053] Fig. 3 shows a side view of the inverter housing 1 according to Fig. 1 with covers 5. To achieve optimal protection of the inverter against weather, especially against moisture, the covers 5 of the connection area 7 and the power area 8 are each provided with at least one circumferential seal 9 (see Fig. 4), with the seals 9 of the cover 5 of the connection area 7 and the power area 8 arranged at different levels. By providing the different sealing levels above the connection area 7 and above the power area 8, together with the special design of the double-walled covers 5, the cooling concept of the inverter housing 1 can be further supported and safe operation of the inverter can be ensured even in strong sunlight.

[0054] From the sectioned side view through the inverter housing 1 with covers 5 according to Fig. 4, the cooling concept of the inverter housing 1 is more clearly visible. Preferably, the at least one cover 5 of the power section 8 consists of a cover 5' having the air inlets 10 and at least one lower part 5'' spaced from the cover 5'. Thus, the cover 5 of the power section 8 is formed from several independent subcomponents, i.e., at least one cover 5' and a lower part 5''. This enables a simple implementation of a double-walled cover 5 over the power section 8, wherein the lower part 5" or the lower parts 5" are sealed accordingly with respect to the base shell 2, while cooling air K for cooling the components of the power section 8 is sucked in via the air inlets 10 in the cover 5' and can be passed on via the intermediate space Z in the double-walled cover 5 of the connection section 7.This results in an inverter housing 1 suitable for outdoor use, whereby the inverter is protected both from moisture and from excessive heat development due to solar radiation.

[0055] The cover 5' of at least one cover 5 of the power section 8 protects the power section 8 from weather, foreign bodies and contact, contributes to the efficient guidance of the cooling air K and, through electrically conductive screw connections with at least one lower part 5" and the remaining inverter housing 1, forms a type of Faraday cage to achieve particularly high electromagnetic compatibility (EMC).

[0056] At least one lower part 5'' of the cover 5 of the power section 8 has a receptacle 15 or the like for power components 26. The fact that the power components 26 of the inverter are arranged on the cover 5 or on the lower part 5'' of the cover 5 of the power section 8 supports both the commissioning of the inverter and its maintenance and cooling. When opening the cover 5 of the power section 8, maintenance personnel can quickly and easily remove the cover 5' and then remove the lower part 5'' together with the power component 26 accommodated therein and inspect or replace it. Furthermore, when the lower part 5'' of the cover 5 of the power section 8 together with the power component 26 accommodated therein is lifted off, access to the components arranged underneath is automatically enabled.

[0057] Fig. 5 shows a perspective, sectional view of a more detailed embodiment of an inverter housing 1 according to the invention with covers 5 arranged and closed thereon. Cooling air K is sucked in via the fans 37 through the air inlets 10 in the cover 5 for the power area 8, and a corresponding circulation of the cooling air K is achieved. The cooling air K passes through the gap Z of the double-walled cover 5 of the connection area 7 to corresponding openings, where the waste heat is dissipated to the environment. If the base plate 3 and / or side walls 4 are also at least partially double-walled, further cooling of the inverter housing 1 can be achieved by appropriately guiding the cooling air K (not shown).

[0058] As already mentioned, the connection area 7 can be divided into sub-areas by corresponding partition walls 29. To enable air circulation between the individual sub-areas of the connection area 7, individual partition walls 29 can have holes 36 or the like.

[0059] In Fig. 6, the inverter housing 1 is according to Fig. 5 without covers 5. The power area 8 is divided here into two equal areas. This allows the creation of an inverter housing 1 which has a modular design for different power ranges (e.g. 50 kW and 100 kW) or different applications (with or without a DC booster module). When delivering an inverter for 50 kW, half of the power area 8 can be provided with a blank cover 5''' and the other half of the power area 8 can be equipped with the lower part 5'' with the power components 26 (not shown). Contacts 27 can be arranged in the power area 8, which automatically form matching mating contacts 28 on the power components 26 when the lower part 5'' with the power components 26 is arranged on the base shell 2 of the inverter housing 1 (see Fig. 9B). Thus, an electrical connection is automatically established between the components of the inverter when the components are arranged in the inverter housing 1. A protruding centering pin 46 ensures that the mating contacts 28 on the power components 26 are correctly oriented with respect to the contacts 27 in the power area 8 before the contacts 27 contact the mating contacts 28.

[0060] Fig. 7 shows the inverter housing 1 according to Fig. 5 partially exploded view and with power components of the inverter. To comply with EMC regulations, contact elements 16 made of copper can be arranged on at least one cover 5 for the conductive connection of the cover 5 to the base shell 2 of the inverter housing 1. Such contact elements 16 can, for example, be formed from suitably shaped spring elements made of copper, which automatically establish a reliable electrical connection to the underlying base shell 2 of the inverter housing 1 when the cover 5, in particular the connection area 7, is closed.

[0061] In the case of a pivotable cover 5, it is advantageous if a retaining element 13 is provided to hold the cover 5 in the open position. This allows the assembly personnel to have both hands free to perform activities inside the inverter housing 1.

[0062] In the example according to Fig. 7, the cover 5 of the power compartment 8 includes at least two lower parts 5'', on each of which the power components 26 are arranged. The lower parts 5'' with the power components 26 are pivotally attached to the base shell 2 of the inverter housing via corresponding hinges 25.

[0063] At least one side wall 4' of the base shell 2 of the inverter housing 1 adjacent to the connection area 7 can have bushings 23 with seals 24 for the passage of connecting cables (not shown). This side wall 4' is preferably designed to be replaceable when the cover 5 of the connection area 7 is open. This makes it easier to connect and disconnect the DC and AC cables to the photovoltaic modules or to the energy supply grid. The replaceability of the side wall 4' allows, on the one hand, different variants of bushings 23 to be provided for different cable cross-sections and, on the other hand, makes it easier to arrange such cables. If other side walls 4 are also designed to be openable, the connection of the cables in the connection area 7 can be simplified even further.

[0064] Fig. Figures 8A to 8C show examples of replaceable side panels 4' with different feedthroughs 23 and seals 24 for the passage of various cables and lines, which are selected according to the power class or the existing lines. By bending the lower end of the replaceable side panel 4', the replaceable side panel 4' can be stiffened and a base 42 for the inverter housing can be formed.

[0065] Fig. 9A shows a lower part 5'' of the cover 5 of the power section 8 of the inverter housing 1 according to Fig. 5 with power components 26 arranged thereon. Fans 37 are also arranged on the lower part 5'', which suck in the cooling air K from the air inlets 10 of the cover 5' (see Fig. 5). To the right of the fans 37, heat sinks can be seen, which, for example, contain chokes for the power components 26. This allows for optimal dissipation of the heat loss from the power components 26. A handle 45 can be provided for easier handling of the lower section 5'' with the power components 26 arranged thereon. In addition to this function, the handle 45 also serves to maintain the distance to the cover 5' of the lid 5 of the power section 8 arranged above it and, if necessary, to form an electrical connection to comply with EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) regulations.

[0066] From the view of the lower part 5'' of the cover 5 of the power area 8 with the power components 26 arranged thereon according to Fig. 9B from below, contacts 27 are visible, which automatically contact corresponding counter contacts 28 in the power area 8 of the inverter housing 1 when the cover 5'' is fastened (see Fig. 6). An additional centering pin 47 is used to center the device on the matching centering pin 46 in the power section 8 of the inverter housing (see Fig. 6).

[0067] Fig. Figure 10 shows another view of an inverter housing 1 in a partially opened or sectioned representation. The connection area 7 can be divided by at least one partition 29 into an AC connection area 30, a DC connection area 31, and a filter area 32. An AC isolator 48 can also be arranged in the AC connection area 31.

[0068] If double connection terminals 43 are arranged in the AC connection area 30, which connection terminals 43 can be connected as needed via connecting elements 44, such as copper bars, this enables the interconnection of several inverters in series as a so-called daisy chain, without the need to lay corresponding cables from each inverter to the power grid, which may be very long under certain circumstances. A contact guard can be arranged above the connection terminals 43. Such a contact guard can have small-diameter holes to enable voltage measurements to be taken at the underlying connection terminals 43 using appropriate test probes without having to remove the contact guard (not shown).

[0069] Fig. 10 also shows DC isolators 20 in the connection area 7 or in the DC connection area 31, which are connected to the actuating elements 19 on the cover 5 of the connection area 7 (see Fig. 1 and Fig. 7) to enable the DC isolators 20 to be actuated using the actuating elements 19.

[0070] The DC connection area 31 of the illustrated design variant of the inverter housing 1 features two connection levels 33, 34 for the arrangement of string fuses 35, as is common for protecting strings on photovoltaic modules. This allows for the clear arrangement of numerous string fuses 35, allowing their inspection or replacement in the event of a fault to be carried out quickly and easily.

[0071] Fig. 11 shows the inverter housing 1 according to Fig. 5 from below or rear. Fastening elements 38 for optional horizontal or vertical fastening can be arranged on the base plate 3 of the inverter housing 1. Such fastening elements 38 can be implemented, for example, as strips or hooks for hanging in wall brackets or frames. In addition, lifting eyes 39 can be provided for manipulating the inverter housing 1 with the aid of a crane. Stand feet 42 can also be arranged on the inverter housing 1, for example on side walls 4 or on the base plate 3, in order to be able to place the inverter housing 1 upright on the floor without damaging the feedthroughs 23 for cables and lines.

[0072] In Fig. 12 are in the inverter housing 1 according to Fig. Ten carrying handles 40 are provided as a handling aid for vertical mounting. The carrying handles 40 are inserted or pushed into laterally arranged receptacles 41 on the base plate 3 of the inverter housing 1. This allows the carrying handles 40 to serve as a handling aid for vertical mounting. After vertical mounting, the carrying handles 40 can be removed again.

[0073] Finally, Fig. 13 the inverter housing 1 according to Fig. 12 with carrying handles 40 arranged thereon as a substructure for horizontal mounting. If the carrying handles 40 are designed to converge at an angle, an inclined arrangement corresponding to the inclination of the carrying handles 40 can be achieved when the inverter housing 1 is mounted horizontally. This allows rainwater to drain off more easily when installed outdoors. List of reference symbols: 1 Inverter housing, in particular photovoltaic inverter housing 2 base shell 3 Base plate of the base shell 2 4 side walls of the base shell 2 4' replaceable side wall of the base shell 2, which borders the connection area 7 5 Cover of the connection area 7 and power area 8 5' Cover of the lid 5 of the power area 8 5'' lower part of the cover 5 of the power range 8 5''' blind cover 6 Partition wall in the base shell 2 to separate the connection area 7 and the power area 8 7 Connection area 8 Performance range 9 circumferential seal in the lid 5 10 Air inlets in the cover 5' of the cover 5 of the power area 8 11 Actuating elements on the cover 5 of the connection area 7 12 optical signal elements on the cover 5 of the connection area 7 13 Holding element for holding the cover 5 of the connection area 7 in the open position 14 Drip edge 15 Mounting on the lower part 5'' of the cover 5 of the power section 8 for power components 26 16 copper contact elements 17 eyelets on the cover 5 and on the base shell 2 for the installation of a shut-off device 18 Shut-off device 19 Actuating element for connection to a DC isolator 20 20 DC isolators 20 in the connection area 7 21 Eyelets on the actuating element 19 for the arrangement of a shut-off device 18 22 Coating, for example lacquer coating or thermal coating 23 Feedthrough for connecting cables L 24 Seals in the bushings 23 25 Hinges in the power range 8 for pivoting mounting of power components 26 26 performance components in performance range 8 27 contacts in the performance area 8 28 counter contacts on the power components for contacting the contacts 27 in the power range 8 29 Partition wall in the connection area 7 30 AC connection area 31 DC connection area 32 filter area 33 Connection level for string fuses 35 in the DC connection area 31 34 Connection level for string fuses 35 in the DC connection area 31 35 String fuses in the DC connection area 31 36 holes in the partition wall 29 in the connection area 7 37 Fan under the cover 5' of the cover 5 of the power section 8 38 fastening elements on the base plate 3 39 lifting eyes on the base plate 3 40 Carrying handles for arrangement in receptacles 41 of the base plate 3 41 shots of base plate 3 42 feet 43 Connection terminal 44 connecting elements (copper rails) 45 Handle on the lower part 5'' of the cover 5 of the power range 8 46 Centering pin in power range 8 47 Centering pin on the power component 26 48 AC disconnectors K Cooling air Z Space in the double-walled covers 5 of the connection area 7 and power area 8 as well as the possibly double-walled base plate 3 or side walls 4

Claims

[1] Inverter housing (1), in particular photovoltaic inverter housing, with a base shell (2) having at least one base plate (3) and several side walls (4), wherein the base shell (2) is divided by at least one partition wall (6) into at least one connection area (7) and at least one power area (8), and the connection area (7) and the power area (8) are each covered by at least one cover (5), characterized byin that the covers (5) are at least partially double-walled, and air inlets (10) for sucking in cooling air (K) are arranged in an intermediate space (Z) between the at least partially double-walled covers (5), at least one cover (5) of the power area (8) comprises at least two lower parts (5''), wherein a lower part (5'') of the cover (5) of the power area (8) has a receptacle (15) for power components (26), hinges (25) for the pivotable arrangement of at least part of at least one cover (5) of the power area (8) and of power components (26) are provided in the power area (8) of the base shell (2), and in that at least one side wall (4') of the base shell (2) adjacent to the connection area (7) has feedthroughs (23) with seals (24) for the feedthrough of connecting lines (L), and at least one side wall (4) is designed to be openable. [2] Inverter housing (1) according to claim 1, characterized bythat the at least one cover (5) of the power area (8) consists of a cover (5') having the air inlets (10) and at least one lower part (5'') spaced from the cover (5'). [3] Inverter housing (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the covers (5) of the connection area (7) and the power area (8) are each provided with at least one circumferential seal (9), wherein the seals (9) of the covers (5) of the connection area (7) and the power area (8) are arranged in different planes. [4] Inverter housing (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by that actuating elements (11) and / or optical signaling elements (12) are arranged on at least one cover (5) of the connection area (7). [5] Inverter housing (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by that at least one lid (5) or a part thereof is pivotably connected to the base shell (2). [6] Inverter housing (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by that at least one drip edge (14) is provided. [7] Inverter housing (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by that contact elements (16) made of copper are arranged on at least one cover (5) for the conductive connection of the cover (5) to the base shell (2). [8] Inverter housing (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by that at least two covers (5, 5') overlap each other. [9] Inverter housing (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by that at least partially a coating (22), in particular a light lacquer coating, preferably a thermal coating, is provided. [10] Inverter housing (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized bythat an actuating element (19) for connection to a DC isolator (20) that can be arranged in the connection area (7) is arranged on at least one cover (5) of the connection area (7). [11] Inverter housing (1) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized by that at least one side wall (4') of the base shell (2) adjacent to the connection area (7) is designed to be replaceable with passages (23) with seals (24) for the passage of connecting lines (L) when the cover (5) is open. [12] Inverter housing (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized by that in the power area (8) contacts (27) for contacting corresponding counter contacts (28) on the power components (26) are arranged in the pivoted-in position. [13] Inverter housing (1) according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized bythat the connection area (7) is divided by at least one partition wall (29) into an AC connection area (30) and a DC connection area (31) as well as a filter area (32). [14] Inverter housing (1) according to claim 13, characterized by that in the DC connection area (31) at least two connection levels (33, 34) are provided one behind the other for the arrangement of string fuses (35). [15] Inverter housing (1) according to claim 13 or 14, characterized by that double connection terminals (43) are arranged in the AC connection area (30), which connection terminals (43) can be connected via connecting elements (44) if required. [16] Inverter housing (1) according to one of claims 13 to 15, characterized by that at least one partition wall (29) has holes (36). [17] Inverter housing (1) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized bythat fans (37) for moving the cooling air (K) in the intermediate space (Z) are arranged on at least one cover (5) of the power area (8) or a part thereof. [18] Inverter housing (1) according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized by that fastening elements (38) for optional horizontal or vertical fastening are arranged on the base plate (3). [19] Inverter housing (1) according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized by that two carrying handles (40) are provided which can be inserted into laterally arranged receptacles (41) on the base plate (3), which carrying handles (40) serve as a substructure in the case of horizontal fastening or as a manipulation aid in the case of vertical fastening. [20] Inverter housing (1) according to claim 19, characterized by that the carrying handles (40) are designed to converge at an angle. [21] Inverter housing (1) according to one of claims 1 to 20, characterized bythat the base plate (3) and / or side walls (4) are at least partially double-walled. [22] Inverter housing (1) according to claim 21, characterized by that the at least partially double-walled side walls (4) and / or base plate (3) correspond to the at least partially double-walled covers (5), so that cooling air (K) can flow through the spaces between the base plate (3) and / or the side walls (4) and / or the covers (5).

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