Photovoltaic module including module level power electronics, diagnostic management system, and diagnostic management method

Abstract

In a photovoltaic module including a module level power electronics (MLPE) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the module level power electronics may include a processor that executes a self-diagnosis mode based on a self-diagnosis request signal received during operation or shutdown of an inverter connected to the module level power electronics, detects whether there is an installation error between the photovoltaic module and the module level power electronics or a component error within the module level power electronics in the self-diagnosis mode, and transmits diagnosis result information regarding the detection of the installation error and component error to a diagnosis management system.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a solar module including a module-unit power conversion device, a diagnostic management system, and a diagnostic management method. Background Technology

[0002] Recently, solar power generation systems have been introducing Module Level Power Electronics (MLPE) to increase power generation under specific conditions, such as when shading occurs.

[0003] Meanwhile, module-unit power converters may malfunction, such as when errors occur during the connection process with solar modules or inverters, or when errors occur in components mounted inside the module-unit power converter.

[0004] Typically, modular power converters do not have a separate fault diagnosis mode and adopt a method of notifying the user only when an anomaly is detected during operation. In this case, since a fault can only be detected after the modular power converter is installed, connected to an inverter, and begins actual power generation, there is a disadvantage in that a fault can only be detected after a certain period of time has passed. Furthermore, as the user cannot diagnose the fault at a desired time, it is difficult to determine whether there are installation errors or internal component failures immediately after installation. means of solving the problem

[0005] In a photovoltaic module including a module level power electronics (MLPE) according to one embodiment of the present invention, the module level power electronics may include a processor that executes a self-diagnosis mode based on a self-diagnosis request signal received during operation or shutdown of an inverter connected to the module level power electronics, detects whether there is an installation error between the photovoltaic module and the module level power electronics or a component error within the module level power electronics in the self-diagnosis mode, and transmits diagnosis result information regarding the detection of the installation error and component error to a diagnosis management system.

[0006] The processor can receive the self-diagnosis request signal from the diagnosis management system based on user input requesting self-diagnosis.

[0007] The processor can detect the installation error based on first error information indicating at least one of the overvoltage of the solar module, the overcurrent of the solar module, the overvoltage of the module unit power converter, the overcurrent of the module unit power converter, and the overheating of the module unit power converter.

[0008] The processor receives measurement information measuring at least one of the output voltage of the solar module, the output current of the solar module, the output voltage of the module unit power converter, the output current of the module unit power converter, and the temperature of the module unit power converter, and can detect whether there is an installation error according to at least one of overvoltage, overcurrent, and overheating based on the measurement information.

[0009] The processor can detect the component error based on second error information indicating at least one of a rapid shutdown operation error, a voltage sensor error of the module unit power converter, a current sensor error of the module unit power converter, a gate driver error of the module unit power converter, a power supply error of the module unit power converter, and an analog-to-digital converter error of the module unit power converter.

[0010] The processor may detect an installation error between the solar module and the module unit power converter or a component error within the module unit power converter while the module unit power converter is operating in normal mode, stop the operation of the module unit power converter based on the installation error or the component error, and execute the self-diagnosis mode based on the fact that the number of times the installation error or the component error is detected exceeds a preset number.

[0011] The above processor can operate the module unit power converter back to normal mode based on the fact that the number of detections does not exceed a preset number.

[0012] The processor can detect a component error within the module unit power converter while the module unit power converter is operating in normal mode, and execute the self-diagnosis mode based on the fact that the state maintenance time due to the component error exceeds a preset time.

[0013] The above diagnostic result information may include information on the occurrence of the detected installation error or component error, information on the cause of the installation error or component error, and information on the method for resolving the installation error or component error.

[0014] A diagnostic management system that communicates with a Module Level Power Electronics (MLPE) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a processor that transmits a self-diagnosis request signal to the Module Level Power Electronics based on receiving a user input requesting self-diagnosis, receives diagnostic result information regarding an installation error between a solar module and the Module Level Power Electronics or a component error within the Module Level Power Electronics in response to the self-diagnosis request signal, and performs a pre-prepared corresponding operation based on the diagnostic result information.

[0015] The above diagnostic management system further includes a display, and the processor can display the diagnostic result information, including information on the occurrence of an installation error or a component error, information on the cause of the error, or information on a method for resolving the error, on the display.

[0016] The above-described corresponding operation may include an operation of displaying information on the occurrence of the installation error or the component error on the display, an operation of transmitting a self-diagnosis re-request signal to the module unit power converter, an operation of executing a service call for inspection of the module unit power converter, or an operation of transmitting a general mode operation signal to the module unit power converter.

[0017] The above processor can transmit the self-diagnosis re-request signal to the module unit power conversion device based on receiving a user input requesting a self-diagnosis re-request according to the above diagnosis result information.

[0018] The above processor can transmit a normal mode operation signal to the module unit power converter based on receiving a user input requesting operation in normal mode according to the above diagnostic result information.

[0019] A diagnostic management method performed by a Module Level Power Electronics (MLPE) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: a step of executing a self-diagnosis mode based on a self-diagnosis request signal received during operation or shutdown of an inverter connected to the Module Level Power Electronics; a step of detecting whether there is an installation error between the solar module and the Module Level Power Electronics or a component error within the Module Level Power Electronics in the self-diagnosis mode; and a step of transmitting diagnostic result information regarding the detection of the installation error and component error to a diagnostic management system.

[0020] The step of executing the self-diagnosis mode may include receiving the self-diagnosis request signal from the diagnosis management system based on user input requesting self-diagnosis.

[0021] The detection step may include detecting the installation error based on first error information indicating at least one of the overvoltage of the solar module, the overcurrent of the solar module, the overvoltage of the module unit power converter, the overcurrent of the module unit power converter, and the overheating of the module unit power converter.

[0022] The above detection step may include detecting the component error based on second error information indicating at least one of a rapid shutdown operation error, an error in the voltage sensor of the module unit power converter, a gate driver error of the module unit power converter, a power supply error of the processor, and an analog-to-digital converter error.

[0023] The above method may further include the steps of: detecting an installation error between the solar module and the module unit power converter or a component error within the module unit power converter while the module unit power converter is operating in normal mode; stopping the operation of the module unit power converter based on the installation error or the component error; and executing the self-diagnosis mode based on the fact that the number of times the installation error or the component error is detected exceeds a preset number.

[0024] The above method may further include the step of detecting a component error within the module unit power converter while the module unit power converter is operating in normal mode; and the step of executing the self-diagnosis mode based on the fact that the state maintenance time due to the component error exceeds a preset time. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0025] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a solar module and a diagnostic management system including a module-unit power conversion device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a photovoltaic power generation system according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the connection structure between a solar module and a module-unit power conversion device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the operation flowchart of a module unit power conversion device according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the operation flowchart of a module-unit power conversion device and a diagnostic management system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the operation flowchart of a module-unit power conversion device and a diagnostic management system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a photovoltaic power generation system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining the operation of a photovoltaic power generation system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining the operation of a photovoltaic power generation system according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining the operation of a photovoltaic power generation system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining the operation of a photovoltaic power generation system according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the operation flowchart between a module-unit power conversion device and a diagnostic management system according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a waveform according to error detection in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a waveform according to error detection according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a waveform according to error detection according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a drawing illustrating the power supply structure of a building in which a solar module is installed according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0026] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments according to 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 represent the only embodiment in which the present invention can be practiced. In order to clearly explain the present invention in the drawings, parts unrelated to the description may be omitted, and the same reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components throughout the specification.

[0027] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a solar module and a diagnostic management system including a module-unit power conversion device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] FIG. 1 illustrates a solar module (100), a module level power conversion device (Module Level Power Electronics, MLPE) (110) included in the solar module (100), and a diagnostic management system (200).

[0029] A solar module (100) may be a module that produces electricity using sunlight. The solar module (100) may include a plurality of photovoltaic cells. A photovoltaic cell can produce electricity by converting solar energy into electrical energy using the photoelectric effect. A photovoltaic cell may be referred to as a solar cell. A photovoltaic cell may include a monocrystalline silicon solar cell, a polycrystalline silicon solar cell, and a thin-film solar cell. For example, a photovoltaic cell may include an amorphous silicon solar cell, a CIGS-based compound thin-film solar cell, a CdTe-based compound thin-film solar cell, a stacked thin-film solar cell, etc.

[0030] A module unit power conversion device (110) according to one embodiment of the present invention is connected to a solar module (100) and can optimize the output voltage of the solar module (100). For example, the module unit power conversion device (110) can optimize the output voltage so that the output of the solar module (100) becomes maximum. For example, the module unit power conversion device (110) can increase power generation efficiency by using MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) to calculate a voltage value at which the output power can be maximized.

[0031] The module-unit power conversion device (110) may be attached to the back of the solar module (100). Additionally, the module-unit power conversion device (110) may be used physically separated from the solar module (100). The module-unit power conversion device (110) and the solar module (100) may be connected in a conventional manner, and this does not limit the scope of the present invention.

[0032] The module-unit power converter (110) can be connected to the solar module (100) in different ways depending on the structure adopted by the solar power generation system. For example, the module-unit power converter (110) can be connected to the solar module (100) in a one-to-one correspondence. As another example, the module-unit power converter (110) can be installed with the solar module (100) in a many-to-one or many-to-many manner. The installation form of the module-unit power converter (110) and the solar module (100) is not limited to any one.

[0033] A diagnostic management system (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention is connected to a module unit power conversion device (110) and can control the operation of the module unit power conversion device (110). The communication method between the diagnostic management system (200) and the module unit power conversion device (110) may include wired or wireless communication, but is not limited thereto and can be applied in various ways.

[0034] The diagnostic management system (200) can be implemented in an Energy Management System (EMS), and can also be implemented in the form of a web or application.

[0035] Meanwhile, an installation error may occur during the process of connecting the module-unit power converter (110) to the solar module (100). Additionally, the module-unit power converter (110) may include various components, such as a voltage converter, a processor, an analog-to-digital converter, a voltage sensor, a current sensor, a gate driver, etc. A component error may occur, such as at least one of the various components included in the module-unit power converter (110) burning out or malfunctioning.

[0036] The module unit power conversion device (110) can operate in a self-validation mode (SV mode) and a normal mode, and can detect errors by performing the self-validation mode. At this time, the self-validation mode can be performed on the condition of error detection and can be performed upon receiving an additional user request.

[0037] The module unit power conversion device (110) can detect errors in the self-diagnosis mode even when the module unit power conversion device (110) is not operating (generating power). For example, the module unit power conversion device (110) can activate the self-diagnosis mode immediately after the module unit power conversion device (110) is installed on a solar module. For example, the module unit power conversion device (110) can activate the self-diagnosis mode immediately after the solar module (100) is installed in a solar power plant or a home for solar power generation.

[0038] In addition, the module unit power conversion device (110) can perform a self-diagnosis mode regardless of whether the inverter connected to the module unit power conversion device (110) is operating.

[0039] When multiple module-unit power conversion devices (110) are included in a photovoltaic power generation system, errors can be detected for multiple module-unit power conversion devices (110). Alternatively, errors can be detected for a selected module-unit power conversion device (110) among the multiple module-unit power conversion devices (110).

[0040] Hereinafter, the operation of a module unit power conversion device (110) and a diagnostic management system (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0041] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a photovoltaic power generation system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Referring to FIG. 2, the photovoltaic power generation system (1) may include a photovoltaic module (100), a module unit power conversion device (110), a diagnostic management system (200), an inverter (300), and a power grid (400).

[0043] The solar module (100) is a module that produces electricity using sunlight and can be provided in multiple quantities.

[0044] A module-unit power conversion device (110) is installed on each solar module (100) to prevent shading of a specific solar module or deterioration of the performance of a specific solar module from having an adverse effect on overall power generation. The specific configuration of the module-unit power conversion device (110) is described with reference to FIG. 3.

[0045] The outputs of multiple module unit power conversion devices (110) can be connected in series to form a single string. There may be multiple strings, and the strings can be connected to an inverter (300).

[0046] The diagnostic management system (200) can receive the status of components of the photovoltaic power generation system (1), such as a module unit power conversion device (110), an inverter (300), and a power grid (400). The diagnostic management system (200) can control the operation of the components of the photovoltaic power generation system (1) based on the status of the components of the photovoltaic power generation system (1).

[0047] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the connection structure between a solar module and a module-unit power conversion device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] The module unit power conversion device (110) may include a voltage converter (111), a processor (112), and a measuring device (113).

[0049] The voltage converter (111) is a device that converts the voltage applied from the solar module (100) (output voltage of the solar module (100)). For example, the voltage converter (111) may include a DC optimizer, a DC / AC inverter, or a micro-inverter.

[0050] If the voltage converter (111) is a DC optimizer, it can be implemented as a buck converter that steps down the input voltage. Additionally, the voltage converter (111) can be implemented as a buck and boost converter. The detailed structure of the voltage converter (111) is not limited to any one of these.

[0051] The processor (112) may include, for example, a power control MCU (Microcontroller Unit). The processor (112) can execute software, such as a program, to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the module-unit power conversion device (110) and can perform various data processing or operations.

[0052] The processor (112) can convert (adjust) the output voltage of the module unit power converter (110) by controlling the duty ratio of the voltage converter (111). The processor (112) can control the operation of the internal switch(s) included in the voltage converter (111).

[0053] The measuring device (113) may include a voltage sensor, a current sensor, a temperature sensor, etc.

[0054] The processor (112) receives the output current (I) of the solar module (100) from the measuring device (113) pv ), output voltage (V) of the solar module (100) pv ), temperature (T) of the module unit power conversion device (110) mlpe Can receive ).

[0055] In addition, the module unit power conversion device (110) may be equipped with a power supply, a gate driver, and an analog-to-digital converter (ADC).

[0056] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating the operation flowchart of a module unit power conversion device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] A processor (112) of a module unit power conversion device (110) according to one embodiment of the present invention can execute a self-diagnosis mode based on a self-diagnosis request signal received during operation or shutdown of an inverter connected to the module unit power conversion device (S10).

[0058] The processor (112) can execute a self-diagnosis mode regardless of whether the inverter is operating.

[0059] The processor (112) can receive a self-diagnosis request signal from the diagnosis management system (200) based on user input requesting self-diagnosis. The processor (112) can execute a self-diagnosis mode upon receiving the self-diagnosis request signal.

[0060] A processor (112) according to one embodiment of the present invention can detect whether there is an installation error between the solar module (100) and the module unit power conversion device (110) or a component error within the module unit power conversion device (110) in a self-diagnosis mode (S20).

[0061] If an error occurs during the installation process between the solar module (100) and the module unit power converter (110), the current and voltage values ​​at the output terminal of the solar module (100), the input terminal of the module unit power converter (110), or the output terminal of the module unit power converter (110) may deviate from a predefined range (normal range). Additionally, as the current and voltage values ​​deviate from the normal range, the temperature of the module unit power converter (110) may deviate from the normal range.

[0062] The processor (112) can detect an installation error based on error information (hereinafter referred to as the first error information) indicating at least one of the overvoltage of the solar module (100), the overcurrent of the solar module (100), the overvoltage of the module unit power converter (110), the overcurrent of the module unit power converter (110), and the overheating of the module unit power converter (110).

[0063] The first error information according to one embodiment of the present invention may be information including bits indicating whether there is overcurrent, overvoltage, or overheating. For example, the first error information for solar modules composed of 3 strings and module-unit power conversion devices may be configured as shown in Table 1 below.

[0064] Fault_Flag.union_SW internal element of the structure explanation Fault_Flag.union_SW.all bit0 b_Reserved_SW_1 Preliminary beat bit1 bit2 b_Vpv_Top Overvoltage Fault_Vpv Top bit3 b_Vpv_Mid Overvoltage Fault_Vpv Mid bit4 b_Vpv_Bot Overvoltage Fault_Vpv Bot bit5 b_Ipv_Top Overcurrent Fault_Ipv Top bit6 b_Ipv_Mid Overcurrent Fault_Ipv Mid bit7 b_Ipv_Bot Overcurrent Fault_Ipv Bot bit8 b_Vout Overvoltage Fault_Vout bit9 b_Iout Overcurrent Fault_Iout bit10 b_Temp_Top Overheating Fault_Top bit11 b_Temp_Mid Overheating Fault_Mid bit12 b_Temp_Bot Overheating Fault_Bot bit13 b_Temp_PLC Overheating Fault_PLC bit14 b_I_Out_Reverse Preliminary beat bit15

[0065] In the first error information shown in Table 1, the solar modules and module-unit power converters composed of 3 strings can be labeled as Top, Mid, and Bot.

[0066] For example, in the case of bit 2, the output voltage (V) of the topmost solar module among the solar modules configured in 3 strings pv As information regarding ), the corresponding bit may include information on whether overvoltage has occurred. As another example, in the case of bit 7, the output current (I) of the bottommost solar module among the solar modules configured in 3 strings. pv As information regarding ), the bit may include information regarding whether an overcurrent has occurred. As another example, in the case of bit 8, as information regarding the output voltage (Vout) of the module-unit power converter, the bit may include information regarding whether an overvoltage has occurred.

[0067] In addition to this, the processor (112) has an output voltage (V) of the solar module (100). pv ), output current (I) of the solar module (100) pv ), output voltage (V) of the module unit power conversion device (110) out ), output current (I) of the module unit power conversion device (110) out ) and the temperature (T) of the module unit power conversion device (110) mlpe It is possible to receive measurement information that measures at least one of ).

[0068] Output voltage (V) of the solar module (100) of the solar module (100) pv ), output current (I) of the solar module (100) pv ) and the temperature (T) of the module unit power conversion device (110) mlpe ) can be measured by the measuring device (113) of the module unit power conversion device (110) as previously illustrated in FIG. 3. However, it is not limited thereto, and the measurement information can be obtained through various paths.

[0069] The processor (112) can detect whether there is an installation error due to at least one of overvoltage, overcurrent, and overheating of the solar module (100) and the module unit power converter (110) based on measurement information. Specifically, the processor (112) can check whether the current, voltage, and temperature measurements appearing in the measurement information fall outside a predefined range.

[0070] Component errors occurring within the module unit power conversion device (110) may include rapid shutdown operation errors of the module unit power conversion device (110), and errors occurring in the power conversion device (111), measurement device (113), gate driver, power supplier, and analog-to-digital converter of the module unit power conversion device (110).

[0071] The processor (112) can detect a component error based on error information (hereinafter referred to as second error information) indicating at least one of a rapid shutdown operation error, a voltage sensor error of the module unit power converter (110), a current sensor error of the module unit power converter (110), a gate driver error of the module unit power converter (110), a power supply error of the module unit power converter (110), and an analog-to-digital converter error of the module unit power converter (110).

[0072] The second error information according to one embodiment of the present invention may be information including bits indicating whether each component has an error. For example, the second error information for solar modules and module-unit power conversion devices composed of 3 strings may be configured as shown in Table 2 below.

[0073] Fault_Flag.union_Mal internal element of the structure explanation bit0 b_Reserved_Mal_1 Preliminary beat bit1 bit2 b_RSD_Fault_Flag RSD Operation Fault bit3 b_Buck_Fault_V_Top Voltage sensor or gate driver Fault_Top bit4 b_Buck_Fault_V_Mid Voltage sensor or gate driver Fault_Mid bit5 b_Buck_Fault_V_Bot Voltage sensor or gate driver Fault_Bot bit6 b_Buck_Fault_I_Top Current sensor or gate driver Fault_Top bit7 b_Buck_Fault_I_Mid Current sensor or gate driver Fault_Mid bit8 b_Buck_Fault_I_Bot Current sensor or gate driver Fault_Bot bit9 b_Vdd 3.3V Fault bit10 b_Vref ADC Offset Voltage Fault bit11 b_Vpv_Short_Top Input voltage 0V_Top, Fault related to installation or hardware defects bit12 b_Vpv_Short_Mid Input voltage 0V_Mid, Fault related to installation or hardware defects bit13 b_Vpv_Short_Bot Input voltage 0V_Bot, Fault related to installation or hardware defect bit14 b_Reserved_Mal_2 Preliminary beat bit15

[0074] In the second error information shown in Table 2, the solar modules and module-unit power converters composed of 3 strings can be labeled as Top, Mid, and Bot.

[0075] For example, in the case of bit 3, it is information about an error in the voltage sensor or gate driver of the topmost module unit power converter among the module unit power converters composed of 3 strings, and the bit may include information about whether an error has occurred.

[0076] As another example, bit 9 may include the voltage applied to the power supply of the module unit power conversion device (110), and bit 10 may include whether the offset voltage of the analog-to-digital converter is applied at an appropriate voltage.

[0077] As another example, bit 11 is information about the output voltage (input voltage of the module unit power converter (110)) (Vpv) of the topmost solar module among the three strings of solar modules, and the bit may contain information about installation errors or hardware-related errors.

[0078] A processor (112) according to one embodiment of the present invention can transmit diagnostic result information regarding whether installation errors and component errors are detected to a diagnostic management system (200) (S30).

[0079] Diagnostic result information according to one embodiment of the present invention may include information on the occurrence of a detected installation error or component error, information on the cause of the installation error or component error, and information on a method for resolving the installation error or component error.

[0080] The corresponding operation of the diagnostic management system (200) will be explained with reference to FIGS. 5 and FIGS. 6.

[0081] According to one embodiment of the present invention, by diagnosing whether there is a fault immediately after installation of the module unit power conversion device (110), the module unit power conversion device with a hardware problem can be filtered out, and the user can be notified whether the installation was done properly.

[0082] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the user can diagnose the failure and installability of the module unit power conversion device (110) at any time they want.

[0083] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a module-unit power converter with a problem in hardware or installation can be quickly identified, thereby minimizing adverse effects on the total power generation of the system.

[0084] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the operation flowchart of a module-unit power conversion device and a diagnostic management system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Figure 5 borrows from the content previously described in relation to Figure 4, so specific explanations regarding overlapping content are omitted.

[0086] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a module unit power conversion device (110) can receive a self-diagnosis request signal (S510). A diagnosis management system (200) can receive a user input requesting self-diagnosis and, in response, transmit a self-diagnosis request signal to the module unit power conversion device (110).

[0087] Hereinafter, the operation of the diagnostic management system (200) can be performed through the operation of a processor provided within the diagnostic management system (200). Hereinafter, for distinction, the processor (113) of the module unit power conversion device (110) is referred to as the first processor, and the processor of the diagnostic management system (200) is referred to as the second processor.

[0088] The diagnostic management system (200) may receive user input by having separate input and display units. The input unit may include at least one input means. The input unit may include, for example, a keyboard, a key pad, a dome switch, a touch panel, a touch key, a mouse, a menu button, etc. The display unit may include a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, a micro electro mechanical systems (MEMS) display, and an electronic paper display.

[0089] Additionally, the diagnostic management system (200) may provide a graphic user interface (GUI) for receiving user input, and the graphic user interface may be provided through a display unit implemented as a touch screen combined with an input unit.

[0090] The module unit power conversion device (110) performs a self-diagnosis mode (S520) and can detect installation errors or component errors in the module unit power conversion device (110) (S530). If an installation error or component error is detected in the module unit power conversion device (110) (Yes in S530), the diagnosis result information can be transmitted to the diagnosis management system (200) (S540).

[0091] If no installation error or component error is detected in the module unit power converter (110) (No of S530), the module unit power converter (110) can perform normal operation in normal mode (S550).

[0092] The diagnosis management system (200) receives diagnosis result information and can perform a pre-prepared response action based on the diagnosis result information (S560).

[0093] A corresponding operation provided according to one embodiment of the present invention may include an operation of displaying information on the occurrence of an installation error or a component error on a display, an operation of transmitting a self-diagnosis re-request signal to a module-unit power converter, an operation of executing a service call for inspection of the module-unit power converter, or an operation of transmitting a general mode operation signal to the module-unit power converter.

[0094] The diagnostic management system (200) can display diagnostic result information on the display, including information on the occurrence of an installation error or a part error, information on the cause of the error, or information on how to resolve the error.

[0095] The diagnostic management system (200) can transmit a self-diagnosis re-request signal to the module unit power conversion device (110) based on receiving a user input requesting a self-diagnosis mode re-request (S561). In this case, the module unit power conversion device (110) can re-perform the self-diagnosis mode (S520).

[0096] In addition, the second processor of the diagnostic management system (200) can determine whether it is necessary to re-execute the self-diagnosis mode based on the diagnostic result information, and if necessary, transmit a self-diagnosis re-request signal to the module unit power conversion device (110).

[0097] The diagnostic management system (200) can execute a service call for checking the module unit power conversion device (S562). The diagnostic management system (200) can execute a service call when a separate inspector is required to resolve error information based on the diagnostic result information, or when it receives user input requesting a service call.

[0098] The diagnostic management system (200) can transmit a normal mode operation signal to the module unit power converter (110) based on receiving user input requesting operation in normal mode (S563). In this case, the module unit power converter (110) can perform normal mode (S550).

[0099] In addition, the second processor of the diagnostic management system (200) can determine whether normal mode operation is necessary based on the diagnostic result information and, if necessary, transmit a normal mode operation signal to the module unit power conversion device (110).

[0100] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a user can quickly identify and replace a problematic module-unit power converter by performing a self-diagnosis mode immediately after installing the module-unit power converter. At this time, the self-diagnosis mode can be performed when power is supplied to the module-unit power converter and the diagnostic management system can operate the module-unit power converter. Therefore, the self-diagnosis mode can be performed immediately after installation even without power generation.

[0101] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the operation flowchart of a module-unit power conversion device and a diagnostic management system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] FIG. 6 illustrates the process of responding to an error detected while the module unit power conversion device (110) is operating in normal mode.

[0103] A module unit power conversion device (110) according to one embodiment of the present invention operates in normal mode (S610) and can detect errors (S620).

[0104] Specifically, the first processor can detect an installation error between the solar module (100) and the module unit power converter (110) or a component error within the module unit power converter (110) while the module unit power converter (110) is operating in normal mode. The detection process is the same as described above in relation to S20 of FIG. 3.

[0105] If an error is detected in the module unit power converter (110) (Yes in S620), the operation of the module unit power converter (110) can be stopped (S630). If no error is detected (No in S620), it can continue to operate in normal mode (S610).

[0106] The module unit power conversion device (110) may execute a self-diagnosis mode based on the fact that the number of detections of installation errors or component errors exceeds a preset number (S640). Alternatively, the module unit power conversion device (110) may execute a self-diagnosis mode based on the fact that the state maintenance time due to component errors exceeds a preset time (S640). In this regard, more specific details will be explained with reference to FIGS. 13 to 15.

[0107] The module unit power conversion device (110) can automatically switch from a general mode to a self-diagnosis mode (S650) if the number of detections of an installation error or a component error exceeds a preset number of times, or if the state maintenance time due to a component error exceeds a preset time (Yes of S640). The module unit power conversion device (110) can identify the number of detections of an installation error or a component error, or the state maintenance time due to a component error, based on the first error information and second error information described above.

[0108] When the number of detections of the module unit power conversion device (110) does not exceed a preset number and the time for maintaining the state due to a component error does not exceed a preset time (No of S640), it can be restarted and continue to operate in normal mode (S610).

[0109] The process after automatically switching to self-diagnosis mode is the same as S530 in FIG. 5, so the overlapping content is taken from the explanation in FIG. 5.

[0110] The module unit power conversion device (110) can detect installation errors or component errors of the module unit power conversion device in self-diagnosis mode (S660).

[0111] If an installation error or component error is detected in the module unit power conversion device (110) (Yes in S660), the diagnosis result information can be transmitted to the diagnosis management system (200) (S670).

[0112] If no installation error or component error is detected in the module unit power converter (110) (No of S660), the module unit power converter (110) can perform normal operation in normal mode (S610).

[0113] The diagnosis management system (200) receives diagnosis result information and can perform a pre-prepared response action based on the diagnosis result information (S680).

[0114] The diagnostic management system (200) can transmit a self-diagnosis re-request signal to the module unit power conversion device (110) based on receiving a user input requesting a self-diagnosis mode re-request (S681). In this case, the module unit power conversion device (110) can re-perform the self-diagnosis mode (S650).

[0115] The diagnostic management system (200) can execute a service call for checking the module unit power conversion device (S682). The diagnostic management system (200) can execute a service call when a separate inspector is required to resolve error information based on the diagnostic result information, or when it receives user input requesting a service call.

[0116] The diagnostic management system (200) can transmit a normal mode operation signal to the module unit power converter (110) based on receiving user input requesting operation in normal mode (S683). In this case, the module unit power converter (110) can perform normal mode (S610).

[0117] In addition, the second processor of the diagnostic management system (200) can determine whether normal mode operation is necessary based on the diagnostic result information and, if necessary, transmit a normal mode operation signal to the module unit power conversion device (110).

[0118] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a photovoltaic power generation system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0119] All of the multiple module-unit power conversion devices (110) included in the photovoltaic power generation system (1) operate in normal mode. Additionally, the inverter (300) is in operation and receives current from the multiple module-unit power conversion devices (110).

[0120] FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining the operation of a photovoltaic power generation system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0121] A plurality of module-unit power conversion devices (110) included in the solar power generation system (1) can individually perform a self-diagnosis mode during the operation of the inverter (300). At this time, other module-unit power conversion devices (110) can generate power normally in a normal mode.

[0122] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a self-diagnosis mode is performed individually for each module-unit power conversion device, and other module-unit power conversion devices can generate power normally, thus being efficient for power production.

[0123] FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining the operation of a photovoltaic power generation system according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0124] A plurality of module unit power conversion devices (110) included in the solar power generation system (1) can perform a self-diagnosis mode overall during the operation of the inverter (300).

[0125] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the entire module-unit power conversion device may perform a self-diagnosis mode simultaneously or individually.

[0126] According to one embodiment of the present invention, all module-unit power converters included in a photovoltaic power generation system can simultaneously perform a self-diagnosis mode to quickly identify the problematic module-unit power converter.

[0127] FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining the operation of a photovoltaic power generation system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0128] A plurality of module-unit power conversion devices (110) included in the solar power generation system (1) can individually perform a self-diagnosis mode while the inverter (300) is stopped. At this time, other module-unit power conversion devices (110) can generate power normally in a normal mode.

[0129] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining the operation of a photovoltaic power generation system according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[0130] A plurality of module unit power conversion devices (110) included in the solar power generation system (1) can perform a self-diagnosis mode overall while the inverter (300) is stopped.

[0131] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a module-unit power conversion device can perform a self-diagnosis mode regardless of whether the inverter is operating.

[0132] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the operation flowchart between a module-unit power conversion device and a diagnostic management system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0133] FIG. 12 is a drawing that specifically illustrates what was previously described in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5.

[0134] A diagnostic management system (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention Based on a request for self-diagnosis mode operation (S1210), the module unit power conversion device (110) can perform a self-diagnosis mode (S1220).

[0135] The module unit power conversion device (110) can change the self-diagnosis state (SV_State) from stop (SV_STOP) to run (SV_RUN) (S1230-S1240).

[0136] The module unit power conversion device (110) can check whether there are installation errors or component errors in a self-diagnosis mode (SV_HW_Check_State) (S1250).

[0137] When the module unit power conversion device (110) completes self-diagnosis (SV_FINISHED) (S1260), it can check whether an error has occurred (S1270).

[0138] If an error occurs (Yes of S1270), the module unit power conversion device (110) transmits the diagnosis result information to the diagnosis management system (200), and the diagnosis management system (200) can notify the user of the occurrence of the error (S1280).

[0139] The diagnostic management system (200) can provide guidance on the cause of the error and inspection points, and can provide guidance on selecting a service call if the issue is not resolved (S1290), and can terminate the self-diagnosis mode (S1310).

[0140] The diagnostic management system (200) may provide guidance that the self-diagnosis mode can be re-executed (S1300). When the diagnostic management system (200) receives user input requesting re-execution, it may request the module unit power converter to re-execute the self-diagnosis mode (S1220).

[0141] If no error occurs (No. of S1270), the module unit power conversion device (110) can transmit the diagnosis result information to the diagnosis management system (200). The diagnosis management system (200) can notify the user that it is in a normal state (S1320) and terminate the self-diagnosis mode (S1330).

[0142] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a waveform according to error detection in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0143] In FIG. 13, an operation to identify whether to switch to self-diagnosis mode based on the number of error detections while operating in normal mode in relation to S640 of FIG. 6 is described.

[0144] The module unit power converter (110) can detect installation errors between the solar module (100) and the module unit power converter (110) or component errors within the module unit power converter (110) while operating in normal mode. For example, the module unit power converter (110) can detect a fault based on first error information as shown in Table 1.

[0145] The module unit power conversion device (110) can be restarted after stopping for a preset time based on an installation error or a component error. At this time, the stopping time and the number of error detections are not limited to either one and can be determined actively or passively.

[0146] Referring to the waveform illustrated in FIG. 13, the module unit power converter (110) can stop operation for 0.2 seconds or 1 minute and restart when an error occurs while operating in normal mode. The module unit power converter (110) can automatically switch to self-diagnosis mode and perform self-diagnosis when 3 sets of 120 errors occur.

[0147] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a waveform according to error detection according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0148] In FIG. 14, an operation to identify whether to switch to self-diagnosis mode based on the number of error detections while operating in normal mode in relation to S640 of FIG. 6 is described.

[0149] The module unit power converter (110) can detect component errors within the module unit power converter (110) while operating in normal mode. For example, the module unit power converter (110) can detect errors corresponding to bits 2-10 of the second error information as shown in Table 2. The module unit power converter (110) can restart after stopping for a preset time based on the component errors. At this time, the stopping time and the number of error detections are not limited to either one and can be determined actively or passively.

[0150] Referring to the waveform shown in FIG. 14, the module unit power converter (110) can stop operation for 5 minutes and restart when an error occurs while operating in normal mode. If an error occurs 9 times, the module unit power converter (110) can automatically switch to self-diagnosis mode to perform self-diagnosis.

[0151] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a waveform according to error detection according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0152] In FIG. 15, an operation is described for identifying whether to switch to a self-diagnosis mode based on the state maintenance time following error detection while operating in normal mode in relation to S640 of FIG. 6.

[0153] The module unit power converter (110) can detect component errors within the module unit power converter while operating in normal mode. For example, the module unit power converter (110) can detect component errors (faults) corresponding to bits 11-13 of the second error information as shown in Table 2.

[0154] When a module unit power conversion device (110) detects a component error, it can check the state maintenance time according to the error.

[0155] The module unit power conversion device (110) can execute a self-diagnosis mode based on the fact that the state maintenance time due to a component error exceeds a preset time. At this time, the preset time is not limited to any one and can be determined actively or passively.

[0156] Referring to the waveform shown in FIG. 15, the module unit power conversion device (110) can automatically switch to a self-diagnosis mode and perform self-diagnosis if the state maintenance time after a component error occurs while operating in normal mode exceeds 10 minutes.

[0157] FIG. 16 is a drawing illustrating the power supply structure of a building in which a solar module is installed according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0158] As shown in FIG. 16, multiple photovoltaic modules (2) can be installed on the roof of a building (1) to generate energy. Multiple photovoltaic modules (2) can be connected to form a photovoltaic module array.

[0159] The inverter (6) can convert the energy of the solar module (2) and supply power generated into the building (1).

[0160] Meanwhile, commercial power transmitted through the utility pole (3) can be supplied to the building through the transformer (4).

[0161] Multiple household appliances (7) can operate by selectively receiving at least one of the commercial power supply or the power generated by the solar module (2). The power meter (5) can measure the amount of power consumed in the building (1).

[0162] In addition, if a separate energy storage system (ESS) is provided, the energy of the solar module (2) can be stored in the energy storage system.

[0163] When multiple photovoltaic modules (2) are connected, a photovoltaic module array can be formed. A photovoltaic module array is a collection of multiple photovoltaic modules and may include one output terminal. Explanation of the symbols

[0164] 1: Solar power generation system 100: Solar module 110: Modular power converter 200: Diagnostic Management System 300: Inverter 400: Power system

Claims

Claim 1 A photovoltaic module comprising a Module Level Power Electronics (MLPE), wherein the Module Level Power Electronics comprises a processor that executes a self-diagnosis mode based on a self-diagnosis request signal received during operation or shutdown of an inverter connected to the Module Level Power Electronics, detects whether there is an installation error between the photovoltaic module and the Module Level Power Electronics or a component error within the Module Level Power Electronics in the self-diagnosis mode, and transmits diagnosis result information regarding the detection of the installation error and component error to a diagnosis management system, wherein the processor detects whether there is an installation error based on first error information indicating at least one of overvoltage, overcurrent, and overheating in the self-diagnosis mode executed during shutdown of the inverter. Claim 2 In claim 1, the processor is a solar module that receives a self-diagnosis request signal from the diagnosis management system based on user input requesting self-diagnosis. Claim 3 In claim 1, the processor detects the installation error based on the first error information indicating at least one of the overvoltage of the solar module, the overcurrent of the solar module, the overvoltage of the module unit power converter, the overcurrent of the module unit power converter, and the overheating of the module unit power converter. Claim 4 In claim 1, the processor receives measurement information measuring at least one of the output voltage of the solar module, the output current of the solar module, the output voltage of the module unit power converter, the output current of the module unit power converter, and the temperature of the module unit power converter, and detects whether the installation error due to at least one of the overvoltage, the overcurrent, and the overheating exists based on the measurement information. Claim 5 In paragraph 3, the solar module detects the component error based on second error information indicating at least one of a rapid shutdown operation error, a voltage sensor error of the module unit power converter, a current sensor error of the module unit power converter, a gate driver error of the module unit power converter, a power supply error of the module unit power converter, and an analog-to-digital converter error of the module unit power converter. Claim 6 In claim 5, the processor detects an installation error between the solar module and the module unit power converter or a component error within the module unit power converter while the module unit power converter is operating in normal mode, stops the operation of the module unit power converter based on the installation error or the component error, and executes the self-diagnosis mode based on the fact that the number of times the installation error or the component error is detected exceeds a preset number. Claim 7 In paragraph 6, the above processor is a solar module that operates the module unit power conversion device back to normal mode based on the fact that the number of detections does not exceed a preset number. Claim 8 In claim 5, the above processor detects a component error within the module unit power converter while the module unit power converter is operating in normal mode, and executes the self-diagnosis mode based on the fact that the state maintenance time due to the component error exceeds a preset time. Claim 9 A solar module according to claim 1, wherein the diagnostic result information includes information on the occurrence of the detected installation error or component error, information on the cause of the installation error or component error, and information on the method for resolving the installation error or component error. Claim 10 A diagnostic management system that communicates with a Module Level Power Electronics (MLPE), comprising a processor that transmits a self-diagnosis request signal to the Module Level Power Electronics based on receiving a user input requesting self-diagnosis, receives diagnostic result information regarding an installation error between a solar module and the Module Level Power Electronics or a component error within the Module Level Power Electronics in response to the self-diagnosis request signal, and performs a pre-arranged corresponding operation based on the diagnostic result information, wherein the processor detects whether the installation error exists based on first error information indicating at least one of overvoltage, overcurrent, and overheating in response to the self-diagnosis request signal received while the inverter is stopped from operating. Claim 11 A diagnostic management system according to claim 10, further comprising a display, wherein the processor displays the diagnostic result information, including information on the occurrence of an installation error or a component error, information on the cause of the error, or information on a method for resolving the error, on the display. Claim 12 A diagnostic management system according to claim 11, wherein the corresponding operation provided above includes: an operation of displaying information on the occurrence of the installation error or the component error on the display; an operation of transmitting a self-diagnosis re-request signal to the module unit power converter; an operation of executing a service call for inspection of the module unit power converter; or an operation of transmitting a general mode operation signal to the module unit power converter. Claim 13 In claim 12, the above processor is a diagnostic management system that transmits the self-diagnosis re-request signal to the module unit power conversion device based on receiving a user input requesting a self-diagnosis re-request according to the above diagnostic result information. Claim 14 In claim 12, the above processor is a diagnostic management system that transmits a general mode operation signal to the module unit power converter based on receiving a user input requesting operation in a general mode according to the above diagnostic result information. Claim 15 A diagnostic management method performed by a Module Level Power Electronics (MLPE), comprising: a step of executing a self-diagnosis mode based on a self-diagnosis request signal received during operation or shutdown of an inverter connected to the Module Level Power Electronics; a step of detecting whether there is an installation error between a solar module and the Module Level Power Electronics or a component error within the Module Level Power Electronics in the self-diagnosis mode; and a step of transmitting diagnostic result information regarding the detection of the installation error and component error to a diagnostic management system; wherein the detecting step comprises a step of detecting whether there is an installation error based on first error information indicating at least one of overvoltage, overcurrent, and overheating in the self-diagnosis mode executed during shutdown of the inverter. Claim 16 In claim 15, the step of executing the self-diagnosis mode comprises receiving the self-diagnosis request signal from the diagnosis management system based on user input requesting self-diagnosis. Claim 17 A diagnostic management method according to claim 15, wherein the detecting step comprises the step of detecting the installation error based on the first error information indicating at least one of the overvoltage of the solar module, the overcurrent of the solar module, the overvoltage of the module unit power converter, the overcurrent of the module unit power converter, and the overheating of the module unit power converter. Claim 18 A diagnostic management method according to claim 17, wherein the detecting step comprises detecting the component error based on second error information indicating at least one of a rapid shutdown operation error, an error of the voltage sensor of the module unit power converter, a gate driver error of the module unit power converter, a processor supply power error, and an analog-to-digital converter error. Claim 19 A diagnostic management method according to claim 15, further comprising: a step of detecting an installation error between the solar module and the module unit power converter or a component error within the module unit power converter while the module unit power converter is operating in a normal mode; a step of stopping the operation of the module unit power converter based on the installation error or the component error; and a step of executing the self-diagnosis mode based on the fact that the number of times the installation error or the component error is detected exceeds a preset number. Claim 20 A diagnostic management method according to claim 19, further comprising: a step of detecting a component error within the module unit power converter while the module unit power converter is operating in a normal mode; and a step of executing the self-diagnosis mode based on the fact that the state maintenance time due to the component error exceeds a preset time.

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