Method and device for controlling power conversion module

Abstract

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

Description

Control method and device for power conversion module

[0001] The present invention relates to a control method and device for a power conversion module, and more particularly, to a method and device for controlling a solar module, which is a power conversion module.

[0002] A solar power generation system is a set of devices and methods that convert solar energy into electrical energy and then convert it into usable electricity. Solar cells produce direct current (DC) electricity. However, just as sunlight intensity fluctuates with the weather, the electricity produced is also unstable. Therefore, the primary function of a solar power generation system is to convert this unevenly generated DC power into a stable DC or AC voltage source.

[0003] Solar power generation systems have the following advantages: they are a clean and unlimited energy source; they can generate only the amount needed where needed; they are relatively easy to maintain and can be operated unmanned; they have a long lifespan of over 20 years; and their short construction period allows for a rapid response to increased demand.

[0004] However, because the smallest unit of a solar cell, a cell, can only produce about 0.5 V, its voltage is so low that it's rarely used on its own. Because the voltage used ranges from several volts to tens or even hundreds of volts, solar modules and arrays, which connect multiple cells, are used. When connecting solar modules to a solar power generation system, the system can assign an identifier to each module to distinguish them, but this still requires the hassle of manual assignment.

[0005] Furthermore, solar modules have different maximum power generation and operating points depending on factors such as irradiance and temperature. Therefore, module-level power electronics (MLPEs) are used to control the modules at their maximum power point, with maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control per module. When controlling solar modules using these devices, a separate signal transmission system is required to control the module-level power electronics to ensure stable response in emergency situations.

[0006] The present invention was created to solve problems of the prior art, and the problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a solar power generation system that can be managed by automatically assigning an identifier when adding a solar module, solar array, etc. to the solar power generation system.

[0007] The technical problem to be achieved by the present invention is to provide a method and device for controlling a solar module, which is a power conversion module.

[0008] In addition, the present invention was created to solve the problems of the prior art, and the problem to be solved by the present invention is that when a cable or connector of a solar power generation system is incorrectly connected or damaged, an arc may occur as current passes through the air, and a control method and device for a power conversion module are provided to solve the problems that may occur due to the arc.

[0009] The technical problem to be achieved by the present invention is to provide a control method and device for a power conversion module capable of detecting an arc and preventing problems that may arise from it in advance without using large-capacity components.

[0010] The purpose of the present invention is not limited to the purposes mentioned above, and other purposes not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0011] In a solar power generation system comprising an inverter module for converting power produced from a solar array or a solar panel according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar array or a solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module, an operating method of the inverter module for controlling the solar array or the solar panel includes a step of receiving a registration request for an ID (IDentification) from a slave module, a step of registering the received ID and generating a separate ID corresponding thereto, and a step of transmitting the generated separate ID and a registration completion signal to the slave module, wherein the slave module and the master module can communicate using a PLC (Power Line Communication).

[0012] In a solar power generation system comprising an inverter module for converting power produced from a solar array or solar panel according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar array or solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module, the operating method of the inverter module for controlling the solar array or solar panel may further include a step of repeatedly transmitting a separate ID generated by the slave module and a registration completion signal.

[0013] In a solar power generation system comprising an inverter module that converts power produced from a solar array or a solar panel according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module, an operation method of a solar panel to be registered in the inverter module may include a step of checking whether a PLC (Power Line Communication) used by the slave module and the master module for communication is in use, a step of transmitting an ID (Identification) to the master module using the PLC if the PLC is not in use, and a step of receiving an ID registration completion signal from the master module.

[0014] In a solar power generation system comprising an inverter module that converts power produced from a solar array or a solar panel according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module, in a method of operating a solar panel to be registered in the inverter module, a step of checking whether a PLC used by the slave module and the master module for communication is in use may be a step of checking whether the PLC is in use using a busy signal.

[0015] In a solar power generation system comprising an inverter module that converts power produced from a solar array or a solar panel according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module, the method of operating the solar panel to be registered in the inverter module may further include a step of randomly transmitting an ID to the master module using the PLC when the PLC is not in use.

[0016] In a solar power generation system comprising an inverter module that converts power produced from a solar array or a solar panel according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module, in an operating method of a solar panel for registration in the inverter module, an ID registration completion signal received from the master module may further include an ID assigned by the master module to the slave module.

[0017] In a solar power generation system comprising an inverter module that converts power produced from a solar array or solar panel according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module, an ID in an operation method of a solar panel to be registered in the inverter module may be a unique value assigned during the manufacture of the slave module.

[0018] In a solar power generation system comprising an inverter module for converting power produced from a solar array or a solar panel according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module, and a solar array or a solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module, the inverter module for controlling the solar array or the solar panel includes a PLC (Power Line Communication) communication module for receiving a registration request for an ID (IDentification) from the slave module, transmitting a separate ID generated by the slave module and a registration completion signal, and a controller for registering the received ID and generating a separate ID corresponding thereto, and the slave module and the master module can communicate using a PLC.

[0019] In a solar power generation system comprising an inverter module for converting power produced from a solar array or solar panel according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar array or solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module, the PLC communication module among the inverter modules for controlling the solar array or solar panel can repeatedly transmit a separate ID and a registration completion signal generated by the slave module.

[0020] In a solar power generation system comprising an inverter module for converting power produced from a solar array or a solar panel according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module, the solar panel to be registered in the inverter module may include a controller for checking whether a PLC (Power Line Communication) used by the slave module and the master module for communication is in use, and a PLC communication module for transmitting an ID (Identification) to the master module using the PLC if the PLC is not in use, and receiving an ID registration completion signal from the master module.

[0021] In a solar power generation system comprising an inverter module that converts power produced from a solar array or solar panel according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module, among the solar panels to be registered in the inverter module, the controller can use a busy signal to determine whether the PLC is in use.

[0022] In a solar power generation system comprising an inverter module that converts power produced from a solar array or a solar panel according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module, the PLC communication module among the solar panels to be registered to the inverter module can randomly transmit an ID to the master module using the PLC when the PLC is not in use.

[0023] In a solar power generation system comprising an inverter module that converts power produced from a solar array or a solar panel according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module, an ID registration completion signal received from the master module of a solar panel to be registered in the inverter module may further include an ID assigned by the master module to the slave module.

[0024] In a solar power generation system comprising an inverter module that converts power produced from a solar array or solar panel according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the inverter module operates as a master module and a solar panel newly connected to the inverter module operates as a slave module, the ID of the solar panel to be registered in the inverter module may be a unique value assigned during the manufacturing of the slave module.

[0025] A modular power conversion device according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a DC / DC converter that converts electric energy produced by a solar power generation module, a communication unit including a receiving filter and a communication chip connected to the receiving filter, a processor that controls the DC / DC converter and the communication unit, and a noise detection circuit that generates a signal indicating that noise has been detected when a voltage output from the receiving filter is detected to be higher than a predetermined voltage.

[0026] In a modular power conversion device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the noise detection circuit includes a diode, a capacitor, and a resistor, and a signal generated by the noise detection circuit can be input to the processor.

[0027] In a modular power conversion device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the noise detection circuit includes a diode, a capacitor, and an op-amp, and a signal generated by the noise detection circuit can be input to the processor.

[0028] In a modular power conversion device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the processor can control the DC / DC converter when a signal is input from the noise detection circuit.

[0029] In a modular power conversion device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the noise detection circuit includes a diode, a capacitor, and an op-amp, and a signal generated by the noise detection circuit can be input to the DC / DC converter.

[0030] In a modular power conversion device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the communication unit can support power line communication (PLC).

[0031] In a module-based power conversion device according to an embodiment of the present invention, when the processor operates at 3.3 V, the predetermined voltage may be 2.5 V.

[0032] In a modular power conversion device according to an embodiment of the present invention, the communication unit may further include a transmission filter.

[0033] In a modular power conversion device according to an embodiment of the present invention, when a signal is generated from the noise detection circuit, the DC / DC converter can be stopped.

[0034] In a modular power conversion device according to an embodiment of the present invention, if no signal is generated from the noise detection circuit, the DC / DC converter can operate again.

[0035] A solar power generation system according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a solar power generation module, a module-based power conversion device connected to the solar power generation module and converting electric energy produced by the solar power generation module into DC power, an inverter module that converts the converted DC power into AC power, and a control module that controls the module-based power conversion device and the inverter module.

[0036] According to the present invention, when a slave module is added to a solar power generation system, the master module can automatically recognize the slave module and assign an identifier to it without intervention by an administrator.

[0037] According to the present invention, even if a manager adds a slave module to a solar power generation system, the manager may not have to manually set the identifier of the slave module, thereby eliminating inconvenience and facilitating management of the identifier of the slave module.

[0038] According to the present invention, even if a slave module is added to a solar power generation system, installation of the slave module can be facilitated because the administrator does not need to set an identifier for the slave module.

[0039] According to the present invention, even when a slave module is replaced in a solar power generation system, the administrator may not need to manually set the identifier of the slave module, thereby facilitating post-management of the slave module.

[0040] According to the present invention, if a cable or connector of a solar power generation system is incorrectly connected or damaged, an arc may occur due to current passing through the air, and a control method and device for a power conversion module capable of resolving this can be provided.

[0041] According to the present invention, a control method and device for a power conversion module can be provided that can detect an arc and prevent problems that may arise from it in advance without using large-capacity components.

[0042] In addition, the effects that can be obtained from the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0043] Figure 1 is a configuration diagram of a solar power generation system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining a solar array according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a master and multiple slaves on a PLC in a solar power generation system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a process in which a master registers multiple slaves in a solar power generation system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a process in which a master module registers a slave module in a solar power generation system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIG. 6 is a flowchart for registering a slave module to a master module in a solar power generation system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 7 is a configuration diagram of a solar power generation system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 8a is a diagram showing an overvoltage detection circuit of a module-based power conversion device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 8b is a graph showing a power-to-power communication signal output to a receiving filter in a communication unit in a modular power conversion device.

[0052] Figure 8c is a graph showing a power-to-power communication signal output to a receiving filter in a communication unit in a module-based power conversion device when a plasma discharge occurs.

[0053] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an overvoltage detection circuit of a module-based power conversion device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an overvoltage detection circuit of a module-based power conversion device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0056] However, the technical idea of ​​the present invention is not limited to some of the embodiments described, but can be implemented in various different forms, and within the scope of the technical idea of ​​the present invention, one or more of the components between the embodiments can be selectively combined or substituted for use.

[0057] In addition, terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in the embodiments of the present invention may be interpreted as having a meaning that can be generally understood by a person of ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs, unless explicitly and specifically defined and described, and terms that are commonly used, such as terms defined in a dictionary, may be interpreted in consideration of the contextual meaning of the relevant technology.

[0058] Additionally, the terms used in the embodiments of the present invention are intended to describe the embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0059] In this specification, the singular may also include the plural unless specifically stated otherwise in the phrase, and when it is described as “A and / or at least one (or more) of B, C”, it may include one or more of all combinations that can be combined with A, B, C.

[0060] Additionally, in describing components of embodiments of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc. may be used.

[0061] These terms are intended only to distinguish one component from another, and are not intended to limit the nature, order, or sequence of the component.

[0062] And, when a component is described as being 'connected', 'coupled' or 'connected' to another component, it may include not only cases where the component is directly connected, coupled or connected to the other component, but also cases where the component is 'connected', 'coupled' or 'connected' by another component between the component and the other component.

[0063] Additionally, when described as being formed or arranged "above or below" each component, "above" or "below" includes not only cases where the two components are in direct contact with each other, but also cases where one or more other components are formed or arranged between the two components. Furthermore, when expressed as "above" or "below", it can include the meaning of a downward direction as well as an upward direction based on one component.

[0064] Figure 1 is a configuration diagram of a solar power generation system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 1, a solar power generation system (100) may include a solar array (110), an inverter module (120), a monitoring device (130), and a grid (140).

[0066] A solar array (110) is a component that converts light energy into electrical energy in a solar power generation system. The solar array (110) may include a plurality of solar panels and / or a plurality of solar strings, each of which is composed of cells, which are the most basic units. According to one embodiment, each of the solar panels and / or solar strings may include an MCU (Micro Controller Unit) (111) and a PLC (Power Line Communication) communication module (112). The detailed configuration of the solar array (110) is described in detail in FIG. 2.

[0067] The inverter module (120) can convert DC power produced by the solar array (110) into AC power. According to one embodiment, the inverter module (120) may include a PLC communication module (121), an MCU (122), an inverter (123), and a communication module (124). The MCU (122) can control each component of the inverter module (120) to perform the function of the inverter module (120). The inverter module (120) can perform PLC communication with the solar array (110) and different communication from the monitoring device (130). To this end, the PLC communication module (121) can be included in the inverter module (120), and the PLC communication module (121) can be connected to the solar array (110) to perform communication. In addition, the communication module (124) can support the inverter module (120) to perform communication with the monitoring device (130). The inverter module (120) and the monitoring device (130) can communicate using, for example, wireless communication. The inverter (123) can convert DC power received from the solar array (110) into AC power under the control of the MCU (122).

[0068] The monitoring device (130) may be a device for monitoring the power generated by the solar power generation system and monitoring whether each component constituting the solar power generation system is operating normally. The monitoring device (130) may receive information related to the power generated by the solar array (110), the power converted by the inverter (123), and the operation of each component constituting the solar array (110) from the inverter module (120), including the CPU (131), and display or notify the user.

[0069] Grid (140) refers to a power grid, a system through which electricity is supplied. In FIG. 1, DC power generated by a solar array (110) is converted into AC power by an inverter module (120) and supplied to the grid (140). The power supplied to the grid (140) can be supplied to devices and / or locations requiring electricity.

[0070] FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining a solar array according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Referring to Fig. 2, the most basic unit of solar power generation is a cell (210). The cell (210) is mainly made of silicon-based wafers that absorb sunlight and generate electricity. Each silicon-based cell (210) can produce a voltage of approximately 0.5 V to 0.6 V and a current of 4 A to 8 A. When cells (210) are connected in series, the voltage increases, and when connected in parallel, the current increases. Connecting cells (210) in this way in series and / or parallel can generate the desired current and voltage.

[0072] A solar panel (220) may be composed of a plurality of cells (210). A solar panel (220) in which a plurality of cells (210) are connected in series and / or parallel can generate a constant voltage and current under sunlight. A solar panel (220) may also be used interchangeably with a solar module.

[0073] A solar string (230) may be configured with a plurality of solar panels (220) connected in series. A solar string (230) may be configured with a plurality of solar panels (220) connected in series so that a solar array (240) can obtain the required output voltage.

[0074] A solar array (240) may be configured with multiple solar strings (230) connected in parallel. A solar array (240) may also refer to a device in which a stand is installed and connected according to the usage conditions while considering the optimal conditions, such as the inclination and azimuth angles, of multiple solar strings (230) to obtain the required amount of power.

[0075] In one embodiment, at least one of the solar panel (220), the solar string (230), and the solar array (240) may be connected to an inverter. The inverter may be plural and may convert current and / or voltage produced from at least one of the solar panel (220), the solar string (230), and the solar array (240) from direct current to alternating current.

[0076] In the following, it is described that an inverter is connected to a solar panel (220), but it is not limited thereto.

[0077] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a master and multiple slaves on a PLC in a solar power generation system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 3, a solar power generation system may include one master (310) and multiple slaves (320-1, 320-2, 320-3). The solar power generation system according to the present disclosure may utilize power line communication (PLC) that utilizes power lines to supply power. Since the one master (310) and multiple slaves (320-1, 320-2, 320-3) in the solar power generation system utilize power line communication, the power lines may be interconnected.

[0079] In one embodiment, the master (310) may be, but is not limited to, an inverter within a solar power generation system. For example, any one of multiple solar panels may be the master. Alternatively, the master (310) may be configured separately and included in the solar power generation system.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 3, the master (310) may include an MCU (Micro Controller Unit) (311) and a PLC communication module (313). The MCU (311) may control the PLC communication module (313) to allow the master (310) to perform PLC communication with a plurality of slaves (330-1, 330-2, 330-3). The MCU (311) may also perform other functions of the master (310). The PLC communication module (313) may be connected to a power line, generate a signal required for PLC communication, and transmit the signal to the slave or receive a signal transmitted from the slave. The PLC communication module (313) may be controlled by the MCU (311).

[0081] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of slaves (330-1, 330-2, 330-3) may be, but is not limited to, a solar panel. For example, the slaves may be solar strings or solar arrays. FIG. 3 illustrates an example in which one solar string (320-1) includes a plurality of solar panels (330-1, 330-2, 330-3), but each of the solar panels (330-1, 330-2, 330-3), rather than the solar string, is configured as a slave.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the solar panels that are slaves (320-1, 320-2, 320-3) may each include an MCU and a PLC communication module, just like the master (310). For example, the first solar panel (330-1) may include an MCU (340-1) and a PLC communication module (350-1), and the second solar panel (330-2) may include an MCU (340-2) and a PLC communication module (350-2). Each MCU (340-1, 340-2, 340-3) included in each of the solar panels (330-1, 330-2, 330-3) may control each of the PLC communication modules (350-1, 350-2, 350-3) and each of the other solar panels. Additionally, each PLC communication module (350-1, 350-2, 350-3) included in each solar panel can generate signals required for PLC communication and transmit them to the master and / or slave, or receive signals transmitted from the slave and / or master.

[0083] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a process in which a master registers multiple slaves in a solar power generation system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] According to one embodiment, a solar power generation system can perform communication using power line communication (PLC) that utilizes power lines that supply power. Components included in the solar power generation system that require communication can include a PLC communication module and can perform communication by being connected to the PLC communication module. Components performing PLC communication in the solar power generation system can be distinguished as a master (or master module) and a slave (or slave module), and the master can register and control the slave.

[0085] In one embodiment, the master in a solar power generation system may be, but is not limited to, an inverter. For example, any one of the solar modules may be the master.

[0086] In one embodiment, a single master in a solar power generation system can register and control multiple slaves. Each solar panel in the solar power generation system can be a slave.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 4, slave 1 (403) and slave 2 (405) may not yet be registered with the master (401).

[0088] First, Slave 1 (403) can transmit an ID (IDentification) to Master (401) (410). Slave 1 (403) can transmit the ID to be registered with Master (401). Slave 1 (403) can check whether the PLC is in use and transmit the ID if it is not in use. According to one embodiment, Slave 1 (403) can transmit the ID together with a registration request signal (or message). Although not shown in FIG. 4, Slave 1 (403) can repeatedly transmit the ID at random intervals.

[0089] The master (401) can register (420) the ID received from slave 1 (403). The master (401) can store the ID received from slave 1 (403) and generate a separate ID corresponding thereto. The master (401) can generate and manage separate IDs to manage multiple slaves.

[0090] When the master (401) completes the ID registration of slave 1 (403), it can transmit an ID registration completion signal (or message) to slave 1 (403) (440). The master (401) can also transmit a separate ID it has created to slave 1 (403).

[0091] Meanwhile, Slave 2 (405) may also attempt to transmit its ID to Master (401) for registration (430). Slave 2 (405) may first check whether the PLC is in use before transmitting the ID. Slave 2 (405) may not transmit the ID because the PLC is in use by Slave 1 (403).

[0092] Slave 2 (405) may attempt to transmit its ID to the master (401) again for registration (450). However, if it is determined that the PLC is still in use, Slave 2 (405) may not transmit its ID.

[0093] Thereafter, Slave 2 (405) can transmit the ID (460) if it determines that the PLC is not in use. Slave 2 (405) can also transmit the ID along with a registration request signal (or message). Similarly, although not shown in FIG. 4, Slave 2 (405) can repeatedly transmit the ID at random intervals.

[0094] The master (401) can register (470) the ID received from slave 2 (405). The master (401) can store the ID received from slave 2 (405) and generate a separate ID corresponding thereto.

[0095] When the master (401) completes the ID registration of slave 2 (405), it can transmit an ID registration completion signal (or message) to slave 2 (405) (480). The master (401) can also transmit a separately generated ID to slave 2 (405). According to one embodiment, the master (410) can repeatedly transmit the ID registration completion signal and the separately generated ID multiple times to prevent overlapping in communication.

[0096] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a process in which a master module registers a slave module in a solar power generation system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] In one embodiment, the master module in a solar power generation system may be, but is not limited to, an inverter. For example, any one of the solar modules may be the master module.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 5, the master module can receive an ID from the slave module (S510). When the master module receives an ID from the slave module, it can determine that it is a registration request from the slave module. Alternatively, the master module can receive a registration request signal (or message) along with an ID from the slave module. The ID is an identifier of the slave module and can be a unique value for each slave module.

[0099] The master module can register the ID of a slave module upon receiving the ID from the slave module (S520). The master module can store the ID of the slave module and assign a separate ID corresponding to it to the slave module. For example, the master module can assign a separate ID to a slave module to facilitate management of multiple slave modules.

[0100] When the master module completes ID registration of a slave module, it can transmit an ID registration completion signal (or message) to the slave module (S530). The master module can transmit separately assigned IDs together or separately. In one embodiment, the master module can transmit the IDs repeatedly multiple times to avoid overlapping communications.

[0101] FIG. 6 is a flowchart for registering a slave module to a master module in a solar power generation system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] In one embodiment, the slave module in the solar power generation system may be a solar panel. Each of the multiple solar panels may be a slave module. Each of the multiple solar panels may include a PLC communication module to support PLC.

[0103] In one embodiment, the slave module can determine whether it is connected to the solar power system for the first time when powered on and operating. For example, the slave module can determine whether it is connected to the solar power system for the first time by determining whether the ID assigned by the master module is stored. Alternatively, the slave module can determine that it is connected to the solar power system for the first time if it cannot communicate using the stored ID.

[0104] In one embodiment, the slave module may be powered by DC power generated by solar energy.

[0105] Referring to Figure 6, the slave module can check whether the PLC is in use (S610). The slave module can check whether the PLC is in use by another module. Since the power line can be connected to all modules, in order to use the PLC that communicates through the power line, it may be necessary to check whether the PLC is in use by another module. For example, the slave module can check whether the PLC is in use using the busy signal.

[0106] The slave module can wait while the PLC is busy. That is, the slave module may not transmit any signals until the PLC is free and ready to transmit signals. The slave module can continuously check whether the PLC is busy.

[0107] The slave module can transmit its ID when the PLC is not in use (S620). The ID is an identifier of the slave module and can be a unique value for each slave module. For example, the ID of the slave module can be assigned during manufacturing. The slave module can transmit its ID using the PLC. In one embodiment, the slave module can transmit a registration request signal (or message) along with the ID.

[0108] The slave module can receive an ID registration completion signal (or message) for the ID transmitted from the master module (S630). When the slave module receives the ID registration completion signal, it can determine that the slave module has been successfully registered with the master module. The master module can assign a separate ID to the slave module and transmit the assigned ID together with or separately from the ID registration completion signal. The slave module can communicate with the master module using the ID assigned by the master module.

[0109] If the slave module does not receive an ID registration completion signal, it can check again whether the PLC is in use and transmit the ID if the PLC is not in use. In one embodiment, the slave module can transmit the ID at random intervals until it receives an ID registration completion signal.

[0110] Figure 7 is a configuration diagram of a solar power generation system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 7, a solar power generation system (700) may include a solar power generation module (710), a module-level power conversion device (MLPE) (720), a control module (730), and an inverter module (740). According to one embodiment, the solar power generation system (700) may further include a monitoring module (not shown) and a grid (not shown).

[0112] A solar power generation module (710) is a component in a solar power generation system that converts light energy into electrical energy. More specifically, the most basic unit of solar power generation is the cell. A cell is primarily made of silicon wafers that absorb sunlight and generate electricity. Each silicon cell can produce a voltage of approximately 0.5 to 0.6 V and a current of 4 to 8 A. Connecting cells in series increases the voltage, and connecting them in parallel increases the current. Connecting cells in series and / or parallel in this manner can generate a desired current and voltage. A configuration in which multiple cells are connected can be referred to as a solar panel or solar module. A solar panel can generate a constant voltage and current under sunlight. Furthermore, a configuration in which multiple solar panels are connected in series can be referred to as a solar string. Additionally, a configuration in which solar strings are connected in parallel can be referred to as a solar array.

[0113] In the present invention, any of a solar panel, a solar module, a solar string, or a solar array can be a solar power generation module (710).

[0114] According to one embodiment, the solar power generation module (710) may have different voltage-current characteristics depending on the amount of sunlight, temperature, etc., and thus the maximum power point of the solar power generation module (710) may vary. Accordingly, the maximum power generation amount and operating point of each solar power generation module (710) may be different. In order to optimally control each solar power generation module (710), the solar power generation system (700) may include a module-level power conversion device (MLPE) (720).

[0115] In one embodiment, a single module-level power conversion device (MLPE) (720) may be connected to a single solar power generation module (710), but is not limited thereto. For example, a single module-level power conversion device (MLPE) (720) may be connected to multiple solar power generation modules (710).

[0116] The module-level power conversion device (MLPE) (720) can control the solar power generation module (710). The module-level power conversion device (MLPE) (720) can operate the solar power generation module (710) at the maximum power point by considering the characteristics of the solar power generation module (710). For example, the module-level power conversion device (MLPE) (720) can control the solar power generation module (710) to track the maximum power point of the solar power generation module (710). In addition, the module-level power conversion device (MLPE) (720) can control the output voltage of the module-level power conversion device (MLPE) (720) to be lowered in an emergency, thereby preventing a secondary accident.

[0117] A detailed description of the modular power conversion device (MLPE) (720) is described in FIGS. 8 to 10.

[0118] The control module (730) can comprehensively control the configuration within the solar power generation system (700). The control module (730) can be connected to the server of the solar power generation system (700) to transmit and receive necessary information to control the configuration within the solar power generation system (700). Specifically, the control module (730) can be connected to a module-based power conversion device (MLPE) (720) to control the module-based power conversion device (MLPE) (720) according to the power generation status of the solar power generation module (710). The control module (730) can be connected to a plurality of module-based power conversion devices (MLPE) (720) to comprehensively control the module-based power conversion devices (MLPE) (720). The control module (730) can collect power generation information received from a plurality of module-based power conversion devices (MLPE) (720) and transmit the same to the server.

[0119] Additionally, the control module (730) can control the inverter module (740). The control module (730) can transmit and receive necessary data through communication with the inverter module (740), and control the inverter module (740) to convert DC power into AC power.

[0120] In addition, the control module (730) can also be connected to a monitoring module and transmit information necessary for monitoring.

[0121] The inverter module (740) can perform a function of converting DC power produced by the solar power generation module (710) into AC power. According to one embodiment, the inverter module (740) can include a processor, a communication unit, and an inverter. The processor can control each component within the inverter module (740) to perform the function of the inverter module (740), and the communication unit can transmit and receive necessary data between the inverter module (740) and other modules (e.g., the control module (730), etc.). According to one embodiment, the communication unit can support PLC (Power Line Communication) communication, but is not limited thereto. The inverter can convert DC power produced by the solar power generation module (710) into AC power under the control of the processor. That is, the inverter can convert current and / or voltage produced by the solar power generation module (710) from direct current to alternating current.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the solar power generation system may include one inverter module (740), but may also include multiple inverter modules (740). When the solar power generation system (700) includes one inverter module (740), the one inverter module (740) may be connected to multiple control modules (730). When the solar power generation system (700) includes multiple inverter modules (740), the one inverter module (740) may be connected to one control module (730), or may be connected to multiple control modules (730).

[0123] A monitoring module (not shown) may be a module for monitoring power generated by a solar power generation system and monitoring whether each component constituting the solar power generation system is operating normally. The monitoring module may include a processor and a communication unit, and may receive information from a control module (730) regarding power generated by the solar power generation module (710), power converted by the inverter module (740), and whether each component constituting the solar power generation module (710) is operating, and display or notify such information.

[0124] A grid (not shown) may refer to a power grid, a system through which electricity is supplied. In FIG. 7, DC power generated by a solar power generation module (710) is converted into AC power by an inverter module (740) and supplied to the grid. The power supplied to the grid may be supplied to devices and / or locations requiring power.

[0125] FIG. 8a is a diagram showing an overvoltage detection circuit of a module-based power conversion device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 8b is a graph showing a power-to-power communication signal output from a module-based power conversion device to a receiving filter within a communication unit, and FIG. 8c is a diagram showing a graph showing a power-to-power communication signal output from a module-based power conversion device to a receiving filter within a communication unit when plasma discharge occurs.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 8a, a modular power conversion device (MLPE) (720) may include a DC / DC converter (721), a processor (722), a communication unit (723), and a noise detection circuit (727-1).

[0127] The DC / DC converter (721) can convert the input voltage generated by the solar power generation module. The DC / DC converter (721) can convert the input voltage to a required voltage within a limited time under the control of the processor (722). The limited time and the required voltage can be determined by the processor (722). The DC / DC converter (721) can be implemented as, for example, a buck converter, but is not limited thereto.

[0128] The processor (722) can control the configuration within the modular power conversion unit (MLPE) (720). Specifically, the processor (722) can request the DC / DC converter (721) to convert to a required voltage within a limited time. The limited time and / or the required voltage may be directly determined by the processor (722), but may be information received from the communication unit (723). In addition, the processor (722) can control the communication unit (723) to transmit and receive required information with the control module. The processor (722) can control the communication unit (723) to transmit required data through the communication unit (723) and process data received through the communication unit (723).

[0129] The communication unit (723) may include a receiving filter (Rx filter) (724), a transmitting filter (Tx filter) (725), and a communication chip (IC) (726). If the communication unit (723) supports two-way communication, it may include both the receiving filter (Rx filter) (724) and the transmitting filter (Tx filter) (725), but if it supports one-way communication, it may include only the receiving filter (Rx filter) (724) among the receiving filter (Rx filter) (724) and the transmitting filter (Tx filter) (725). The modular power conversion device (MLPE) (720) mainly supports power line communication (PLC), and thus the communication chip (IC) (726) may be a chip that supports power line communication. However, the modular power conversion device (MLPE) (720) may further support other communications and may further include corresponding communication chips.

[0130] Fig. 8b shows a signal measured at a point (810) output from a receiving filter (Rx filter) (724). Referring to Fig. 8b, the power-to-power communication signal output from the receiving filter (Rx filter) (724) can vary in magnitude within a certain voltage range. The power-to-power communication signal can be a signal having a frequency within a certain interval. Fig. 8b is an ideal signal that does not contain noise, but in an actual situation, various noises may be contained.

[0131] Fig. 8c illustrates a signal including noise at a point (810) output from a receiving filter (Rx filter) (724) when a plasma discharge occurs, for example. Referring to Fig. 8c, the signal intensity is greater than that of the signal measured in Fig. 8b, and is not a signal having a frequency within a certain interval. When a modular power conversion device (MLPE) (720) is connected to a connector, if a contact failure occurs, a plasma discharge or plasma arc may occur. If a plasma discharge or plasma arc occurs, not only does the risk of fire increase, but it may also cause problems because it may damage internal components of the solar power generation system.

[0132] The noise detection circuit (727-1) may be a circuit for detecting noise such as a plasma arc. In FIG. 8A, the noise detection circuit (727-1) may include a diode, a resistor, and a capacitor. In the noise detection circuit (727-1), an input terminal of the diode may be connected to an output terminal of a receiving filter (Rx filter) (724), and the output terminal of the diode may be connected to both terminals of a resistor and a capacitor. In addition, the output terminal of the diode may be connected to a processor (722), so that a signal generated at the output terminal of the diode may be input to the processor (722). As described above, one terminal of the resistor and the capacitor may be connected to the output terminal of the diode, and the other terminals may all be grounded. The point (820) where the output terminals of the resistor, the capacitor, and the diode are connected may be a voltage predetermined by the capacitor, and when a voltage greater than this is input to the input terminal of the diode, a signal may be generated at the output terminal of the diode. The predetermined voltage may be referred to as a reference voltage, which may be between 1 V and 2.5 V when the processor (722) operates at 3.3 V. This voltage may preferably be 2.5 V.

[0133] According to one embodiment, the processor (722) can control the DC / DC converter (721) to stop the operation of the DC / DC converter (721) when a signal is generated and input from the noise detection circuit (727-1). Thereafter, when the signal input from the noise detection circuit (727-1) is no longer input, the processor (722) can control the DC / DC converter (721) to resume operation.

[0134] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an overvoltage detection circuit of a module-based power conversion device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 9, the modular power conversion device (MLPE) (720) may include a DC / DC converter (721), a processor (722), a communication unit (723), and a noise detection circuit (727-2). The DC / DC converter (721), the processor (722), and the communication unit (723) are the same or similar to those described in FIG. 8A, and thus, their description is omitted here.

[0136] The noise detection circuit (727-2) may be a circuit for detecting noise. In FIG. 9, the noise detection circuit (727-2) may include a diode, a plurality of capacitors, and an op-amp. In the noise detection circuit (727-2), an input terminal of the diode may be connected to an output terminal of a receiving filter (Rx filter) (724), and the output terminal of the diode may be connected to one terminal of a first capacitor and one of the input terminals of an op-amp. The other input terminal of the op-amp may be connected to one terminal of a second capacitor. In addition, the other terminal of the first capacitor and the other terminal of the second capacitor may both be grounded. Finally, the output terminal of the op-amp may be connected to a processor (722), so that a signal generated at the output terminal of the op-amp may be input to the processor (722). Accordingly, one of the input terminals of the op-amp can input a signal only when the voltage is higher than a certain voltage by the diode and the first capacitor, and the other input terminal of the op-amp can be a voltage predetermined by the second capacitor. Therefore, the output terminal of the op-amp can output a signal generated by the voltage difference between the two input terminals of the op-amp. Here, the point (910) where one terminal of the second capacitor and the other input terminal of the op-amp are connected can be a voltage predetermined by the second capacitor, which can be the same as the predetermined voltage of FIG. 8A. Similarly to FIG. 8A, the predetermined voltage can be referred to as a reference voltage, and this voltage can be a voltage between 1 V and 2.5 V when the processor (722) operates at 3.3 V. This voltage can preferably be 2.5 V.

[0137] According to one embodiment, the processor (722) can stop the operation of the DC / DC converter (721) when a signal is generated and input from the noise detection circuit (727-2). Thereafter, when the signal input from the noise detection circuit (727-2) is no longer input, the processor (722) can operate the DC / DC converter (721) again.

[0138] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an overvoltage detection circuit of a module-based power conversion device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0139] Referring to FIG. 10, the modular power conversion device (MLPE) (720) may include a DC / DC converter (721), a processor (722), a communication unit (723), and a noise detection circuit (727-3). As with FIG. 9, the DC / DC converter (721), the processor (722), and the communication unit (723) are the same or similar as those described in FIG. 8A, and thus, description thereof is omitted herein.

[0140] The noise detection circuit (727-3) may be a circuit for detecting noise. In FIG. 10, the noise detection circuit (727-3) may include a diode, a plurality of capacitors, and an op-amp. In the noise detection circuit (727-3), an input terminal of the diode may be connected to an output terminal of a receiving filter (Rx filter) (724), and the output terminal of the diode may be connected to one terminal of a first capacitor and one of the input terminals of an op-amp. The other input terminal of the op-amp may be connected to one terminal of a second capacitor. In addition, the other terminal of the first capacitor and the other terminal of the second capacitor may both be grounded. Finally, the output terminal of the op-amp may be connected to a DC / DC converter (721), so that a signal generated at the output terminal of the op-amp may be input to the DC / DC converter (721). Accordingly, one of the input terminals of the op-amp can input a signal only when the voltage is higher than a certain voltage by the diode and the first capacitor, and the other input terminal of the op-amp can be a voltage predetermined by the second capacitor. Therefore, the output terminal of the op-amp can output a signal generated by the voltage difference between the two input terminals of the op-amp. Here, the point (1010) where one terminal of the second capacitor and the other input terminal of the op-amp are connected can be a voltage predetermined by the second capacitor, which can be the same as the predetermined voltage of FIG. 8A. Similar to FIG. 8A and FIG. 9, the predetermined voltage can be referred to as a reference voltage, and this voltage can be a voltage between 1 V and 2.5 V when the processor (722) operates at 3.3 V. This voltage can preferably be 2.5 V.

[0141] According to one embodiment, the DC / DC converter (721) may stop operation when a signal is generated and input from the noise detection circuit (727-3). Thereafter, when the signal input from the noise detection circuit (727-3) is no longer input, the DC / DC converter (721) may operate again. At this time, the DC / DC converter (721) may notify the processor (722) of whether or not it is operating.

[0142] In the third embodiment, the noise detection circuit (727-3) is directly connected to the DC / DC converter (721), so that the operation of the DC / DC converter (721) can be stopped earlier than in the first and second embodiments, thereby enabling a quick response.

[0143] Although the above description focuses on examples, these are merely examples and do not limit the present invention. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and applications not exemplified above are possible without departing from the essential characteristics of the present invention. For example, each component specifically shown in the examples can be modified and implemented. In addition, differences related to such modifications and applications should be construed as being included within the scope of the present invention defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. Includes an inverter module that converts power generated from a solar array or solar panel, The above inverter module operates as a master module, In a solar power generation system in which a solar array or solar panel newly connected to the above inverter module operates as a slave module, A step of receiving a registration request for ID (IDentification) from the slave module; A step of registering the received ID and generating a separate ID corresponding thereto; and Including a step of transmitting a separate ID generated by the above slave module and a registration completion signal, An operating method of an inverter module for controlling a solar array or solar panel, wherein the slave module and the master module communicate using PLC (Power Line Communication).

2. In paragraph 1, An operating method of an inverter module for controlling a solar array or solar panel, further comprising a step of repeatedly transmitting a separate ID and a registration completion signal generated by the slave module.

3. Includes an inverter module that converts power generated from a solar array or solar panel, The above inverter module operates as a master module, In a solar power generation system in which a solar panel newly connected to the above inverter module operates as a slave module, A step for checking whether the PLC (Power Line Communication) used for communication between the slave module and the master module is in use; A step of transmitting an ID (Identification) to the master module using the PLC when the PLC is not in use; and An operating method of a solar panel for registration in an inverter module, comprising the step of receiving an ID registration completion signal from the master module.

4. In the third paragraph, the step of checking whether the PLC used for communication by the slave module and the master module is in use is as follows: A method of operating a solar panel for registering with an inverter module, the method comprising: using a busy signal to determine whether the PLC is in use.

5. In paragraph 3, An operating method of a solar panel for registering with an inverter module, further comprising the step of randomly transmitting an ID to the master module using the PLC if the PLC is not in use.

6. In the third paragraph, the ID registration completion signal received from the master module is An operating method of a solar panel to be registered in an inverter module, wherein the master module further includes an ID assigned to the slave module.

7. In paragraph 3, The above ID is a unique value assigned during the manufacturing of the above slave module, and the method of operation of the solar panel to be registered in the inverter module.

8. Includes an inverter module that converts power generated from a solar array or solar panel, The above inverter module operates as a master module, In a solar power generation system in which a solar array or solar panel newly connected to the above inverter module operates as a slave module, A PLC (Power Line Communication) communication module that receives a registration request for an ID (IDentification) from the slave module and transmits a separate ID generated by the slave module and a registration completion signal; and Includes a controller that registers the received ID and generates a separate ID corresponding thereto; The above slave module and the above master module are inverter modules for controlling a solar array or solar panel, communicating using a PLC.

9. In the 8th paragraph, the PLC communication module, An inverter module for controlling a solar array or solar panel, which repeatedly transmits a separate ID and a registration completion signal generated by the above slave module.

10. Includes an inverter module that converts power generated from a solar array or solar panel, The above inverter module operates as a master module, In a solar power generation system in which a solar panel newly connected to the above inverter module operates as a slave module, A controller that checks whether the PLC (Power Line Communication) used for communication by the slave module and the master module is in use; and A solar panel to be registered to an inverter module, comprising a PLC communication module that transmits an ID (Identification) to the master module using the PLC when the PLC is not in use and receives an ID registration completion signal from the master module.

11. In the 10th paragraph, the controller, A solar panel to be registered with the inverter module, which uses the busy signal to check whether the PLC is in use.

12. In paragraph 10, the PLC communication module, A solar panel to be registered in an inverter module, which randomly transmits its ID to the master module using the PLC when the PLC is not in use.

13. In paragraph 10, the ID registration completion signal received from the master module is A solar panel to be registered to an inverter module, further comprising an ID assigned by the master module to the slave module.

14. In paragraph 10, The above ID is a unique value assigned during the manufacturing of the above slave module, and is a solar panel to be registered in the inverter module.

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