Apparatus and method for controlling a solar module

Abstract

According to one embodiment, an apparatus for controlling a photovoltaic module includes a communication unit that receives data from a plurality of photovoltaic modules included in a plurality of photovoltaic module arrays, and a processor that monitors and controls the operating status of the plurality of photovoltaic modules based on the data received via the communication unit, and the communication unit may include a coupling unit that connects the plurality of photovoltaic module arrays and the processor in a many-to-one relationship.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for controlling a solar module, and more particularly to an apparatus and method for controlling a solar module based on power line communication. [Background technology]

[0002] Photovoltaic power generation systems that convert solar energy into electrical energy are applied in a variety of fields.

[0003] On the other hand, there are still limitations to managing power generation efficiency on a per-photovoltaic module (PV module) basis in a solar power generation system.

[0004] In addition, solar modules may experience a decrease in power generation performance due to whitening, electrode corrosion, dielectric breakdown, etc. Therefore, there is an increasing demand for a method for easily and quickly detecting the decrease in power generation performance of solar modules and for extending the lifespan of solar modules.

[0005] Furthermore, when an abnormality is detected in a photovoltaic module array in which photovoltaic modules are connected, it is difficult to clearly identify which of the photovoltaic modules has failed.

[0006] If a solar module failure is not dealt with in advance, the solar power generation system may not function properly, resulting in economic losses.

[0007] Thus, there is a need for an easier way to control and monitor solar modules. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] The present invention provides an apparatus and method for controlling a solar module, and a computer-readable recording medium having a program for executing the method recorded on a computer. The technical problem to be solved is not limited to the above-mentioned technical problem, and other technical problems may exist. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] According to one embodiment, an apparatus for controlling a photovoltaic module includes a communication unit that receives data from a plurality of photovoltaic modules included in a plurality of photovoltaic module arrays, and a processor that monitors and controls the operating status of the plurality of photovoltaic modules based on the data received via the communication unit, and the communication unit may include a coupling unit that connects the plurality of photovoltaic module arrays and the processor in a many-to-one relationship.

[0010] A method for controlling a solar module according to another aspect includes the steps of: a communication unit receiving data of a plurality of solar modules (PhotoVoltaic Modules) included in a plurality of solar module arrays (PhotoVoltaic Module Arrays); a processor determining the operating status of the solar modules based on the data received via the communication unit; and the processor controlling an output unit to output a screen showing the operating status of the solar modules, wherein the communication unit may connect the plurality of solar module arrays and the processor in a many-to-one manner via a coupling unit.

[0011] A computer-readable recording medium according to yet another aspect may include a recording medium having a program recorded thereon for executing the above-described method on a computer. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] The status of the solar module can be easily checked. In addition, the complexity of control and communication with the solar module is reduced, improving the quality of communication within the solar system. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of multiple solar module arrays and a controller according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a power supply structure of a building in which a solar module according to an embodiment is installed. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a control device according to one embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a power line connection configuration of a communication unit of a control device according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a system including a controller, a solar module, a solar module array, and an inverter, according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a communication unit and a processor of a control device according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a control device including a signal amplifier according to one embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 illustrates another example of a control device including a signal amplifier according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for controlling a solar module according to one embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a method for controlling a solar module according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] 1 is a diagram showing an example of a monitor screen for a solar module of an integrated control device according to an embodiment (Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention);

[0014] According to one embodiment, an apparatus for controlling a photovoltaic module includes a communication unit that receives data from a plurality of photovoltaic modules included in a plurality of photovoltaic module arrays, and a processor that monitors and controls the operating status of the plurality of photovoltaic modules based on the data received via the communication unit, and the communication unit may include a coupling unit that connects the plurality of photovoltaic module arrays and the processor in a many-to-one relationship. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] The terms used in the embodiments have been selected to the extent possible as commonly used terms, but these may change depending on the intentions of engineers in the relevant technical field, legal precedents, the emergence of new technologies, etc. In addition, in certain cases, the applicant may arbitrarily select terms, and in such cases, their meanings will be described in detail in the relevant explanation section. Therefore, the terms used in the specification should be defined based on the meanings of the terms and the overall content of the specification, rather than simply by their names.

[0016] Throughout this specification, when a part "comprises" a certain element, this means that it may further include other elements, but not to the exclusion of other elements, unless otherwise specified.

[0017] Furthermore, terms including ordinal numbers such as "first" or "second" used in the specification may be used to describe various components, but the components should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used to distinguish one component from another.

[0018] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The detailed description disclosed below together with the accompanying drawings is intended to describe exemplary embodiments of the present invention and is not intended to show the only embodiments in which the present invention can be implemented. In the drawings, parts that are not relevant to the description may be omitted in order to clearly explain the present invention, and the same reference numerals may be used throughout the specification for the same or similar components.

[0019] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a plurality of solar module arrays and a control device according to an embodiment.

[0020] Referring to FIG. 1, a plurality of solar modules 11 to 10n, 21 to 20n, and 31 to 30n can be connected to each other to form solar module arrays 10, 20, and 30.

[0021] For example, the solar modules 11 to 10n, 21 to 20n, and 31 to 30n may be connected to one another via a power line 270.

[0022] For example, the solar module arrays 10, 20, and 30 may be connected to inverters 251, 252, and 253, respectively. The inverter 250 can convert the DC power generated by the solar module arrays 10, 20, and 30 into AC power.

[0023] Furthermore, the multiple solar module arrays 10, 20, 30 are each connected to the control device 100 and can transmit and receive data. For example, the multiple solar modules 11-10n, 21-20n, 31-30n can transmit and receive data to and from the control device 100 via power line communication (PLC).

[0024] Power line communication is a communication method for transmitting data via power lines (e.g., cables) that supply electricity. For example, in power line communication, data can be transmitted via frequency signals carried over the power lines that supply electricity. Power line communication can be classified into high-speed and low-speed based on communication speed, and into high-voltage and low-voltage based on communication voltage. For example, a home solar module and a control device can communicate using a frequency band of 50 to 60 Hz, but this is not limited to this.

[0025] The first solar module array 10 may include a first group of solar modules 11 to 10n. The first solar module array 10 may be connected to a first inverter 251.

[0026] The second solar module array 20 may include a second group of solar modules 21 to 20n. The second solar module array 20 may be connected to a second inverter 252.

[0027] The third solar module array 30 may include a third group of solar modules 31 to 30n. The third solar module array 30 may be connected to a third inverter 253.

[0028] Although a total of three solar module arrays is shown in Figure 1, the number of solar module arrays included in the solar power generation system may vary as needed, and is not limited to this.

[0029] 1 shows the solar modules included in the solar module array connected in series, this is not limiting, that is, the solar modules may be connected in parallel with each other.

[0030] For example, solar modules may be connected in series to form a solar module string, or solar module strings may be connected in parallel to form a solar module array.

[0031] The solar modules 11 to 10n, 21 to 20n, and 31 to 30n may each be connected to a converter, and the converters may be connected to an inverter 250.

[0032] The inverter 250 and the control device 100 may be connected to the solar modules 11 to 10n, 21 to 20n, 31 to 30n and the solar module arrays 10, 20, 30 via the same power line 270.

[0033] The inverter 250 can combine and convert the energy (for example, DC power) generated from the solar modules 11 to 10n, 21 to 20n, 31 to 30n and the solar module arrays 10, 20, 30.

[0034] The control device 100 can transmit and receive data to and from the solar modules 11 to 10n, 21 to 20n, 31 to 30n and the solar module arrays 10, 20, 30 via the power line 270. This allows the control device 100 to receive data from the solar modules 11 to 10n, 21 to 20n, 31 to 30n and the solar module arrays 10, 20, 30.

[0035] Even if the control device 100 does not include multiple modules (for example, controllers) for collecting data from each of the solar module arrays 10, 20, 30 or each of the solar modules 11-10n, 21-20n, 31-30n, it can be connected to the solar module arrays 10, 20, 30 via the coupling unit 70. In other words, the coupling unit 70 can connect the solar module arrays 10, 20, 30 and the processor 110 in a many-to-one relationship.

[0036] This allows one control device 100 to directly receive and process data from the solar module arrays 10, 20, 30. This makes it possible to improve the complicated communication structure in conventional solar power generation systems.

[0037] The control device 100 can check the operating state and control the operation of each of the solar module arrays 10, 20, and 30. The control device 100 can also check the operating state and control the operation of each of the solar modules 11 to 10n, 21 to 20n, and 31 to 30n.

[0038] Therefore, the control device 100 can quickly process data from each of the solar module arrays 10, 20, 30 and each of the solar modules 11 to 10n, 21 to 20n, 31 to 30n.

[0039] The control device 100 can monitor the amount of power generation and the operating state of each of the solar modules 11 to 10n, 21 to 20n, and 31 to 30n based on data received from the solar modules 11 to 10n, 21 to 20n, and 31 to 30n.

[0040] The control device 100 can check whether a solar module is faulty by receiving a fault signal from each modular power conversion device (or modular power adjustment device) (Module Level Power Electronics, hereinafter referred to as "MLPE") of the solar modules 11-10n, 21-20n, and 31-30n. In some cases, if a fault occurs in at least one of the solar modules 11-10n, 21-20n, and 31-30n, the control device 100 can quickly transmit a control signal to the faulty solar module to stop its operation, depending on the operating state of the faulty solar module.

[0041] Furthermore, when at least one of the solar modules 11 to 10n, 21 to 20n, and 31 to 30n fails, the control device 100 can individually control each of the solar modules 11 to 10n, 21 to 20n, and 31 to 30n.

[0042] For example, the MLPE may be an optimizer or a micro inverter.

[0043] As an example, when the MLPE is an optimizer, the solar power generation system may include a single inverter. In this case, the single MLPE may be connected to a single solar module, and the MLPE may optimize the power output from the single solar module and output it to a single inverter (e.g., a string inverter). The power converted by the inverter (e.g., converting DC power to AC power) may be output to a load or the grid.

[0044] As another example, if the MLPE is a microinverter, a single MLPE may be connected to a single solar module, in which case the MLPE may convert power generated by the single solar module, and the converted power may be output to a load or the grid.

[0045] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an example of a power supply structure of a building in which a solar module according to an embodiment is installed.

[0046] Referring to Figure 2, solar modules 2 can be installed on the roof of a building to generate electricity. As described above with reference to Figure 1, the solar modules 2 can form at least one solar module array.

[0047] The inverter 6 can convert the power generated by the solar module and supply it to the inside of the building 1.

[0048] On the other hand, commercial power transmitted via utility pole 3 may be supplied to the building via transformer 4 .

[0049] The plurality of home electric appliances 7 can be operated by selectively receiving at least one of commercial power and power generated by the solar module 2. The watt-hour meter 5 can measure the amount of power consumed in the building 1.

[0050] Furthermore, if the building 1 is equipped with a separate energy storage system (ESS), the power generated from the solar module 2 may be stored in the energy storage system (ESS).

[0051] The solar modules 2 can constitute at least one solar module array. For example, the solar module array may include one output terminal.

[0052] On the other hand, the solar module 2 may include an MLPE.

[0053] For example, the MLPE device can monitor the state or power generation amount of the solar module 2 and transmit the data to an external device.

[0054] The MLPE can also perform a rapid shutdown (RSD) to stop the operation of the solar module depending on the severity of the solar module failure.

[0055] Furthermore, at least one of the solar module 2 and the MLPE may include a communication module for power line communication.

[0056] The control device 100 can receive data from at least one solar module array via power line communication.

[0057] For example, the control device 100 can receive data related to the solar modules 2 from the MLPEs provided in each of the solar modules 2.

[0058] The control device 100 can monitor the amount of power generation and the operating state of the solar module 2 based on the received data.

[0059] Furthermore, when the rapid shutdown function of the MLPE is executed, the control device 100 can receive a fault signal and check for a fault in the solar module. In some cases, if a fault occurs in the solar module, the control device 100 can transmit a control signal to the solar module to stop operation depending on the operating state of the solar module.

[0060] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a control device according to an embodiment.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 3, the control device 100 may include a sensor 140 , an input unit 170 , an output unit 180 , a communication unit 130 , a memory 120 and a processor 110 .

[0062] For example, the sensor 140 may include at least one sensor. The sensor 140 can transmit detected data to the processor 110. The sensor 140 can detect the connection status of the power line (communication line) by measuring the current or voltage flowing through the power line (communication line). The sensor 140 can also detect whether the target object is generating heat based on the measured temperature.

[0063] For example, the input unit 170 may include at least one input means of a switch and a button. The input unit 170 can receive input of setting data or control data related to a plurality of solar modules or a plurality of solar module arrays.

[0064] For example, the output unit 180 may include at least one of a lamp, a display, and a speaker. The output unit 180 may output data received from a solar module or solar module array.

[0065] Furthermore, if a failure occurs in at least one of the solar module and the solar module array, the output unit 180 can output a notification or a warning. For example, the output unit 180 can output data detected by the sensor 140 and output a warning if an abnormality occurs in at least one module of the solar power generation system.

[0066] The memory 120 may store data relating to a solar module or a solar module array.

[0067] For example, memory 120 may store data by individual solar module or by individual solar module array, and may store data regarding each solar module's capacity, installation date, failure history, cumulative production volume, and cumulative days of operation.

[0068] For example, memory 120 may store address data 121, solar module data 122, solar module array data 123, and analysis data 124.

[0069] The address data 121 includes address information assigned to each solar module and can be used as an identifier for the solar module. The solar module data 122 may include data related to the power generation amount and operating status of the solar module. The solar module array data 123 may include information about the solar module array, information about the solar modules included in the solar module array, and information about the total power generation amount of the solar module array.

[0070] The analytical data 124 may include statistical data regarding solar module data and solar module array data. For example, the analytical data 124 may include statistical data according to hour, day, month, and year, as well as data regarding the total amount of power generated by the solar modules.

[0071] The memory 120 may store data relating to any of the following: energy management algorithms, solar module control algorithms, solar module array control algorithms, data processing algorithms, and parallel communication control algorithms.

[0072] For example, the memory 120 may include storage means such as a random access memory (RAM), a non-volatile memory such as a ROM (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), or a flash memory.

[0073] The communication unit 130 includes a wired or wireless communication module. For example, the communication unit 130 may include a power line communication module (PLC module, power line communication module) 131. The communication unit 130 can perform communication using at least one of short-range communication such as Ethernet, WIFI, Bluetooth, or near field communication (NFC), mobile communication, and serial communication.

[0074] For example, the communication unit 130 may communicate with a solar module or an array of solar modules.

[0075] The communication unit 130 can configure a parallel communication circuit with each of the solar modules to send and receive data.

[0076] The communication unit 130 can also communicate with external servers, a management server, and an administrator terminal. For example, the communication unit 130 can receive weather information from a weather server and past power generation data from the management server.

[0077] The processor 110 operates based on algorithms stored in the memory 120 and is capable of processing data and controlling the operation of the solar modules and solar module arrays.

[0078] The processor 110 can analyze the data of the solar module received via the communication unit 130 and generate a monitor screen related to the operating status of the solar module. The processor 110 can also control the output unit 180 to output the monitor screen.

[0079] The processor 110 may classify each of the solar modules based on the received data and control the output unit 180 to output the amount of power generated by each solar module.

[0080] The processor 110 may calculate the total power consumption of the solar module array and control the output unit 180 to output the total power consumption. The processor 110 may also calculate the average power consumption for each solar module.

[0081] The processor 110 may determine whether a solar module is faulty in response to a fault signal received from at least one of the solar modules. For example, the processor 110 may control the output unit 180 to output a screen in which the color of the faulty solar module is changed or different text is displayed. The processor 110 may also control the output unit 180 to output a warning about the faulty solar module.

[0082] The processor 110 may classify data of each solar module and store the data in the memory 120. The processor 110 may determine the operating state of each solar module based on the data stored for each solar module.

[0083] The processor 110 can individually control the solar modules so that only the solar modules other than the solar module determined to be faulty (ie, the faulty solar module) among all the solar modules are operational.

[0084] When a failure signal due to rapid shutdown is received from the failed solar module, the processor 110 can identify the failed solar module and control the output unit 180 to output a notification or warning about the failed solar module.

[0085] For example, the processor 110 may process computer program instructions, which may be provided from the memory 120 or an external device, by performing basic arithmetic, logic, and input / output operations. The processor 110 may also generally control the operation of other components included in the control device 100.

[0086] Meanwhile, the processor 110 may perform at least a part of the data analysis, processing, and result information generation for the above-described operations using at least one of machine learning, neural network, and deep learning algorithms as rule-based or artificial intelligence algorithms. Examples of neural networks include models such as a convolutional neural network (CNN), a deep neural network (DNN), and a recurrent neural network (RNN).

[0087] For example, processor 110 may be implemented with an array of logic gates or may be implemented with a general-purpose microprocessor in combination with memory storing a program executable by the microprocessor. For example, processor 110 may include a general-purpose processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a controller, a microcontroller, a state machine, etc. In some environments, processor 110 may include an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (PLD), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), etc. For example, processor 110 may refer to a combination of processing devices, such as a combination of a digital signal processor (DSP) and a microprocessor, a combination of multiple microprocessors, a combination of one or more microprocessors coupled with a digital signal processor (DSP) core, or any other such configuration.

[0088] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a power line connection configuration of a communication unit of a control device according to an embodiment.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 4, the solar module arrays 10, 20, and 30 are connected to a communication unit 130 of the control device 100, and can transmit data of the solar modules to the control device 100.

[0090] For example, the communication unit 130 may include a power line communication module (PLC module) 131 and a coupling unit 70.

[0091] The coupling unit 70 is connected to the solar module arrays 10, 20, and 30 via power lines 270, and can transmit signals to the power line communication module (PLC module) 131. In other words, the coupling unit 70 can connect the solar module arrays 10, 20, and 30 and the processor 110 in a many-to-one relationship.

[0092] For example, the coupling unit 70 may include an isolation transformer. Also, the coupling unit 70 may include an isolation element (not shown).

[0093] For example, one end 70a of the coupling unit 70 may be connected to the output terminals of the solar module arrays 10, 20, and 30. The other end 70b of the coupling unit 70 may be connected to a power line communication module (PLC module) 131.

[0094] The control device 100 is connected to the solar module arrays 10, 20, and 30 via the coupling unit 70, and is thereby able to directly receive data from the solar module arrays 10, 20, and 30. This makes it possible to improve the complicated communication structure of conventional solar power generation systems.

[0095] A communication signal received at one end of the coupling unit 70 can be transmitted to the other end.

[0096] By including an insulating element or an insulating transformer in the coupling unit 70, it is possible to block unnecessary signal interference that may occur during transmission of a communication signal. Furthermore, the control device 100 can receive a communication signal from which unnecessary power or noise has been blocked due to the insulating performance of the coupling unit 70. This improves the quality of the communication signal.

[0097] The communication unit 130 can transmit and receive data independently from each of the solar module arrays 10, 20, and 30 via the coupling unit 70. Furthermore, the communication unit 130 can transmit and receive data independently from each of the solar modules.

[0098] The processor 110 can perform monitoring on the solar modules based on data received from the solar module arrays 10, 20, 30.

[0099] Therefore, the control device 100 can check the operating state and control the operation of each solar module array via the coupling unit 70. The control device 100 can also check the operating state and control the operation of each solar module via the coupling unit 70.

[0100] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system including a control device, a solar module, a solar module array, and an inverter according to an embodiment.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 5, one end of the coupling unit 70 may be connected to the solar module arrays 10 to 30, and the other end may be connected to a power line communication module (PLC module) 131.

[0102] The coupling unit 70 can block power or noise from the signals transmitted from the solar module arrays 10 to 30 and transmit the signals to the power line communication module (PLC module) 131.

[0103] Therefore, the control device 100 can be connected to and communicate with the solar module arrays 10 to 30, and can collect data relating to the solar modules.

[0104] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a communication unit and a processor of a control device according to an embodiment.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 6, the control device 100 may include a communication unit 130 and a processor 110.

[0106] For example, the communication unit 130 may include a coupling unit 70, a power line communication module (PLC module) 131, and a plurality of connectors 87 to 89. In some cases, the coupling unit 70 and the plurality of connectors 87 to 89 may be provided outside the communication unit 130 and serve as an input / output interface that processes the input and output of signals to and from the communication unit 130.

[0107] The multiple connectors 87 to 89 may be connected to the coupling unit 70. For example, each of the multiple connectors 87 to 89 may be connected to a single solar module array and a single inverter.

[0108] 6 , the first connector 87 may be connected to the first solar module array 10 and the first inverter 251. The second connector 88 may be connected to the second solar module array 20 and the second inverter 252. The third connector 89 may be connected to the third solar module array 30 and the third inverter 253.

[0109] The power line communication module (PLC module) 131 transmits data received via the coupling unit 70 to the processor 110 .

[0110] The processor 110 stores the received data in the memory 120, analyzes the data of the solar modules and solar module arrays 10-30, and can monitor the solar modules and solar module arrays 10-30.

[0111] Furthermore, when a fault signal is received from the MLPE of a solar module, the processor 110 can display the faulty solar module via the output unit 180.

[0112] FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a control device including a signal amplifier according to one embodiment.

[0113] Referring to FIG. 7, the control device 100 may further include a signal amplifier 150 .

[0114] The signal amplifier 150 may be included in the communication unit 130. For example, the signal amplifier 150 may be located between the coupling unit 70 and the power line communication module (PLC module) 131. In some cases, the signal amplifier 150 may be realized as a device independent of the communication unit 130. If the signal amplifier 150 is an independent device, the signal amplifier 150 may be disposed between the coupling unit 70 and the solar module.

[0115] The signal amplifier 150 can amplify the signal transmitted from the power line communication module (PLC module) 131 to the solar module arrays 10-60.

[0116] Therefore, the solar module arrays 10 to 60 can receive signals with enhanced signal strength.

[0117] For example, the signal amplifier 150 may include line drive circuits 151 and 152. The line drive circuits 151 and 152 may include at least one of a drive amplifier and a buffer.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 7, the first line drive circuit 151 may be connected to the first to third solar module arrays 10 to 30 via a first coupling unit 71.

[0119] Furthermore, the second line drive circuit 152 may be connected to the fourth solar module array 40 to the sixth solar module array 60 via a second coupling unit 72.

[0120] At least one or more line drive circuits 151, 152 may be provided depending on the number of solar module arrays 10 to 60. Meanwhile, although Fig. 7 shows a single line drive circuit connected to three solar module arrays, this is not limited to this. In other words, the number of solar module arrays connected to a single line drive circuit may vary depending on the design of the solar power generation system.

[0121] The line drive circuits 151 and 152 may be connected to a power line communication module (PLC module) 131. The line drive circuits 151 and 152 can amplify signals received from the solar module arrays 10 to 60 via the coupling unit 70 and transmit the amplified signals to the power line communication module (PLC module) 131.

[0122] Therefore, by controlling the signal strength using the signal amplifier 150, the control device 100 can ensure that signals from individual photovoltaic modules included in multiple photovoltaic module arrays 10-60 connected via power lines are received correctly by the control device 100. Also, the control device 100 can transmit signals to the individual photovoltaic modules. Furthermore, the control device 100 can improve the efficiency of communication via power lines.

[0123] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating another example of a control device including a signal amplifier according to an embodiment.

[0124] 8, the communication unit 130 may include a signal amplifier 150. For example, the signal amplifier 150 may be located between the coupling unit 70 and the power line communication module (PLC module) 131.

[0125] The signal amplifier 150 can amplify signals transmitted and received between the solar module arrays 10 to 60 and the power line communication module (PLC module) 131.

[0126] For example, the signal amplifier 150 may include a first push-pull circuit 153 and a second push-pull circuit 154. At least one or more push-pull circuits 153, 154 may be provided depending on the number of solar module arrays 10 to 60. Meanwhile, although FIG. 8 shows a single push-pull circuit connected to three solar module arrays, this is not limiting. In other words, the number of solar module arrays connected to a single push-pull circuit may vary depending on the design of the solar power generation system.

[0127] For example, a push-pull circuit is a circuit in which two amplifiers are connected so as to operate in a complementary manner, and can amplify signals transmitted and received via power line communication.

[0128] 8, the first push-pull circuit 153 may be connected to the solar module arrays 10 to 30 via a first coupling unit 71. The second push-pull circuit 154 may be connected to the solar module arrays 40 to 60 via a second coupling unit 72.

[0129] The push-pull circuits 153 and 154 can amplify the signal from the power line communication module (PLC module) 131 and transmit the amplified signal to the coupling unit 70 .

[0130] Furthermore, the push-pull circuits 153 and 154 can amplify the signals from the solar module arrays 10 to 60 received via the coupling unit 70 and transmit them to the power line communication module (PLC module) 131.

[0131] Therefore, by transmitting a signal amplified by the signal amplifier 150 through the communication unit 130, a signal having a predetermined intensity or higher can be transmitted through the N power lines connected to the solar module arrays 10 to 60 (where N is a natural number equal to or greater than 1).

[0132] FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating an example of a method for controlling a solar module according to one embodiment.

[0133] The flowchart shown in Fig. 9 shows an example of a method for the control device 100 to control a solar module. Therefore, even if the content is omitted below, the matters described above with reference to Figs. 1 to 8 can also be applied to the operation of the control device 100, which will be described later with reference to Fig. 9.

[0134] The communication unit 130 can receive data of a plurality of solar modules included in a plurality of solar module arrays (S110). Here, the communication unit 130 can connect the plurality of solar module arrays to the processor 110 via the coupling unit 70 in a many-to-one relationship.

[0135] For example, the control device 100 can receive data from the solar module array via power line communication by communicating with the solar module array via the communication unit 130. The communication unit 130 can receive data from the solar module array via the coupling unit 70 in a parallel communication manner and transmit the data to the solar module array. The communication unit 130 can be connected to the solar module array via the coupling unit 70 via multiple power lines to send and receive signals.

[0136] The communication unit 130 may further include a signal amplifier 150 for amplifying signals transmitted and received through the power lines. For example, the signal amplifier 150 may include a line drive circuit or a push-pull circuit.

[0137] The processor 110 can determine the operating state of the solar module based on the data received via the communication unit 130 (S120).

[0138] The processor 110 can control the output unit 180 to output a screen showing the operating status of the solar module (S130).

[0139] For example, the processor 110 can generate a screen showing the operating status of the solar module and the solar module array and output it via the output unit 180. The processor 110 can calculate the amount of power generated by the solar module and the average amount of power generated and output it via the output unit. The processor 110 can output the total amount of power generated by the solar module array via the output unit 180. The processor 110 can also calculate power generation statistical data according to day, week, month, or year, or according to weather or season, and output it via the output unit 180.

[0140] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating another example of a method for controlling a solar module according to an embodiment.

[0141] The flowchart shown in Fig. 10 shows an example of a method for the control device 100 to control a solar module. Therefore, even if the content is omitted below, the matters described above with reference to Figs. 1 to 9 can also be applied to the operation of the control device 100, which will be described later with reference to Fig. 10.

[0142] The control device 100 communicates with the solar module array via the communication unit 130 and can receive data from the solar module via power line communication (S310).

[0143] For example, the communication unit 130 can receive data from the solar module array in a parallel communication manner via the coupling unit 70 and transmit data to the solar module array. The communication unit 130 can be connected to the solar module array via the coupling unit 70 through a plurality of power lines to transmit and receive signals.

[0144] For example, the communication unit 130 may further include a signal amplifier 150 for amplifying signals transmitted and received via the multiple power lines. The signal amplifier 150 may include a line drive circuit or a push-pull circuit.

[0145] The processor 110 may store the data in the memory 120 by solar module array or by solar module (S320).

[0146] The processor 110 may analyze (S330) the data for the solar module or solar module array to generate data regarding the amount of power produced by each solar module.

[0147] The processor 110 can generate a monitor screen using the data of the solar module and the solar module array, and output the monitor screen via the output unit 180 (S340).

[0148] For example, the processor 110 can calculate the amount of power generated by a solar module and the average amount of power generated, and output the calculated information from the monitor screen. The processor 110 can also calculate the total amount of power generated by a solar module array and output the calculated information from the monitor screen. The processor 110 can also calculate statistical data on the amount of power generated by day, week, month, or year, or by weather or season, and output the calculated information from the monitor screen.

[0149] In addition, when a fault signal is received via the communication unit 130 (S350), the processor 110 can identify the faulty solar module using the ID or identifier contained in the fault signal and output information about the faulty solar module via the output unit 180 (S360).

[0150] For example, depending on the severity of the failure, the operations that the solar module can perform may be limited, or the operation of the solar module may be stopped by a rapid shutdown function. Here, the failed solar module may transmit a failure signal to the control device 100.

[0151] The processor 110 can generate a warning for the faulty solar module and output it via the output unit 180 (S370).

[0152] The processor 110 can transmit a signal to control the operation of the other solar modules, excluding the faulty solar module, among the entire solar modules (S380).

[0153] The communication unit 130 can transmit a signal to the solar module array via the coupling unit 70. For example, the communication unit 130 can transmit a signal amplified by the signal amplifier 150 to the solar module array.

[0154] When the response data to the control signal is received, the processor 110 can control the output unit 180 to output data related to the solar module (S390).

[0155] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a monitor screen for a solar module of an integrated control device according to an embodiment.

[0156] Referring to FIG. 11, the control device 100 can generate a monitor screen based on data of the solar module array and the solar module received via the communication unit 130, and output the monitor screen via the output unit 180.

[0157] For example, the processor 110 can analyze the data of the solar modules 11 to 10n, 21 to 20N, and 31 to 30n and display the power generation amount 81 of each solar module.

[0158] Furthermore, the processor 110 can display an identifier 82 for distinguishing each of the solar modules 11 to 10 n, 21 to 20 N, and 31 to 30 n. For example, the identifier may include an address, a product number, a serial number, or the like, assigned to each solar module.

[0159] Furthermore, the processor 110 can calculate the total power generation amount and the average power generation amount of the solar module arrays made up of the solar modules 11 to 15, 21 to 20N, and 31 to 30n.

[0160] The output unit 180 can display the power generation amount information 91, 92, 93 of the solar module array on the monitor screen in accordance with the calculation results of the processor 110.

[0161] Furthermore, the processor 110 can identify the faulty solar module 32 for which a fault signal has been received, and display the faulty solar module 32 on the monitor screen differently from the other solar modules. For example, the output unit 180 can display the color or background color of the faulty solar module 32 differently from the other solar modules in response to the control signal of the processor 110.

[0162] Furthermore, the processor 110 can generate a warning for the faulty solar module 32 and output it via the output unit 180.

[0163] As described above with reference to Figures 1 to 11, the control device 100 is connected to multiple solar module arrays via coupling units, allowing the control device 100 to receive communication signals from which unnecessary power or noise is blocked. This improves the quality of the communication signals. Furthermore, since multiple solar module arrays communicate with the control device 100, the structure for communication and control can be simplified and reduced in complexity compared to conventional solar power generation systems.

[0164] Meanwhile, the above-described method can be created as a computer-executable program and can be implemented on a general-purpose digital computer that runs the program using a computer-readable recording medium. The data structure used in the above-described method can be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium using various means. The computer-readable recording medium includes storage media such as magnetic recording media (e.g., ROM, RAM, USB, floppy disk, hard disk, etc.) and optically readable media (e.g., CD-ROM, DVD, etc.).

[0165] The present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments shown in the drawings, but these are merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and equivalent embodiments are possible. Therefore, the true technical scope of the present invention should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. a communication unit that receives data from a plurality of photovoltaic modules included in a plurality of photovoltaic module arrays; a processor that monitors and controls the operating states of the plurality of solar modules based on data received via the communication unit, The communication unit A device for controlling solar modules includes a coupling unit that connects the plurality of solar module arrays and the processor in a many-to-one relationship.

2. Both ends of the coupling unit are connected to the output terminals of the solar module arrays and the power line communication module, respectively; The device according to claim 1 , wherein a signal applied to either one of the two ends is transmitted to the other end.

3. The coupling portion is The apparatus of claim 1 , comprising at least one of an isolation transformer and an isolation element.

4. The processor: classifying the plurality of solar modules based on identifiers assigned to each of the plurality of solar modules; The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the operating conditions are monitored by processing data for each of the plurality of solar modules.

5. The processor:

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the device outputs information about a faulty solar module based on a fault signal received by performing a rapid shutdown (RSD) function on at least one of the plurality of solar modules.

6. Each of the plurality of solar modules is 10. The apparatus of claim 1, including modular level power electronics (MLPE) that performs the monitor and rapid shutdown functions.

7. The communication unit The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of connectors, each connector having two ends connected to the solar module array and the coupling portion, respectively.

8. The communication unit a signal amplifier connected between the communication unit and the plurality of solar module arrays to amplify a signal; The device of claim 1 , further comprising a power line communication module.

9. The signal amplifier The device of claim 8 , connected between the coupling unit and the power line communication module.

10. The number of signal amplifiers is The apparatus of claim 8 corresponding to the number of solar module arrays.

11. The signal amplifier It consists of a line driving circuit, The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the signal of the power line communication module is amplified and transmitted to the plurality of solar module arrays.

12. The signal amplifier The apparatus of claim 11 , comprising at least one of a driver amplifier and a buffer.

13. The signal amplifier 9. The device according to claim 8, further comprising a push-pull circuit in which two amplifiers are connected to operate in a complementary manner.

14. A communication unit receives data of a plurality of photovoltaic modules included in a plurality of photovoltaic module arrays; A step in which a processor determines an operating state of the solar module based on data received via the communication unit; The processor controls an output unit to output a screen showing an operating status of the solar module, The communication unit The method for controlling solar modules includes connecting the solar module arrays and the processor in a many-to-one manner via a coupling unit.

15. The communication unit The plurality of solar module arrays and the processor are connected via N power lines; The method of claim 14 , wherein N corresponds to a number of the plurality of solar module arrays.

16. The determining step includes: The processor classifies the plurality of solar modules based on an identifier assigned to each of the plurality of solar modules; and wherein the processor monitors the operating conditions by processing data for each of the plurality of solar modules.

17. The determining step includes: the processor identifying a faulty solar module according to a fault signal received from at least one of the plurality of solar modules; The method of claim 14 , further comprising: the processor controlling the output unit to output information about the failed solar module.

18. generating individual control instructions for each of the plurality of solar module arrays; a step in which the communication unit generates a communication signal in response to the individual control command; a signal amplifier amplifying the communication signal; The method of claim 14 , further comprising: the coupler transmitting the amplified communication signal to the plurality of solar module arrays.

19. The signal amplifier 20. The method of claim 18, comprising one of a line drive circuit and a push-pull circuit.

20. A computer-readable recording medium having recorded thereon a program for causing a computer to execute the method of claim 14.

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