Method and apparatus for automatically mapping MLPE devices of photovoltaic module

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for automatically mapping an inverter of a photovoltaic module. The method for automatically mapping an inverter of a photovoltaic module according to an embodiment is performed by a processor of a device for automatically mapping the inverter of the photovoltaic module, and may comprise the steps of: creating a guide template including a layout plan for a photovoltaic power system so as to output an optimal amount of generated power, the guide template being created on the basis of at least one of the environmental conditions of the site in which the photovoltaic power system is to be installed, or the performance of the photovoltaic power system; receiving a list of identification information about MLPE devices respectively corresponding to a plurality of photovoltaic modules included in the photovoltaic power system in response to receiving notice that installation of the photovoltaic power system has been completed in accordance with the guide template; receiving a template image captured of the result of attaching first code detached from the MLPE devices onto the guide template; obtaining, from the template image, location information and the identification information about the MLPE devices corresponding to the first code; and generating a first layout of the MLPE devices on the basis of the location information and identification information.

Description

Method and device for automatically mapping MLPE devices of solar modules

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for automatically mapping an MLPE device of a solar module.

[0002] With the recent rise in interest in eco-friendly energy technologies, the installation of solar power generation systems, which utilize sunlight to generate energy, is on the rise. Solar power systems generate electricity by collecting solar energy through photovoltaic modules. This electricity is then fed into the household power grid for household use or stored in batteries for later use. Power generation through solar power systems is environmentally friendly and can reduce electricity bills in the long term, making it a popular choice.

[0003] Typically, a solar power generation system consists of multiple photovoltaic (PV) modules, each of which includes an MLPE device that optimizes power generation and manages power conversion. After installing multiple PV modules, installers must map them onto a layout. This process requires manually scanning the codes containing the identification information for each PV module or MLPE device, then manually correlating the identification information for each PV module or microinverter with the location information for each PV module or device, which presents an inconvenient challenge. Therefore, various methods are being studied to simplify this process.

[0004] The background technology described above is technical information that the inventor possessed for the purpose of deriving the present invention or acquired in the process of deriving the present invention, and cannot necessarily be considered as publicly known technology disclosed to the general public prior to the application for the present invention.

[0005] Prior art document: Domestic Patent Publication No. 10-1319531 (October 11, 2013)

[0006] One object of the present invention is to provide a method for recognizing identification information of a plurality of solar modules or MLPE devices and easily managing the same.

[0007] One object of the present invention is to provide a layout diagram of a plurality of solar modules capable of easily collecting and managing location information of solar modules including MLPE devices.

[0008] One object of the present invention is to minimize errors in the work of installers and support efficient installation by creating a guide template including a layout plan for a plurality of solar modules or MLPE devices capable of outputting optimal power generation.

[0009] One object of the present invention is to obtain azimuth information from an image including a state in which a plurality of solar modules are installed, rotate the layout, and generate more accurate mapping results by actually reflecting the field condition.

[0010] One object of the present invention is to optimize a layout while maintaining visual consistency by generating a modified layout that rotates the layout and excludes text containing identification information corresponding to azimuth information.

[0011] The problems addressed by the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above. Other problems and advantages of the present invention not mentioned above can be understood through the following description and will be more clearly understood through examples of the present invention. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the problems and advantages addressed by the present invention can be realized by the means and combinations thereof set forth in the claims.

[0012] In one embodiment, a device for automatically mapping an inverter of a solar module includes at least one processor and at least one memory, wherein the at least one processor is configured to generate a guide template including a layout plan of a solar system capable of outputting an optimal amount of power generation based on at least one of environmental conditions of a site where the solar system is to be installed and performance of the solar system, and, upon receiving completion of installation of the solar system corresponding to the guide template, receive a list of identification information of MLPE devices each corresponding to a plurality of solar modules included in the solar system, receive a template image including a result in which a first code separated from the MLPE device is attached on the guide template, obtain location information and identification information of the MLPE device corresponding to the first code from the template image, and generate a first layout diagram of the MLPE device based on the location information and the identification information.

[0013] A method for automatically mapping an inverter of a solar module according to one embodiment is a method for automatically mapping an inverter of a solar module, which is performed by a processor of a device for automatically mapping an inverter of a solar module, the method comprising: a step of generating a guide template including a layout plan of a solar system to output an optimal amount of power generation based on at least one of environmental conditions of a site where a solar system is to be installed and performance of the solar system; a step of receiving a list of identification information of MLPE devices each corresponding to a plurality of solar modules included in the solar system upon receiving completion of installation of the solar system corresponding to the guide template; a step of receiving a template image in which a result of attaching a first code separated from an MLPE device to the guide template is captured; a step of acquiring location information and identification information of an MLPE device corresponding to the first code from the template image; and a step of generating a first layout diagram of the MLPE device based on the location information and the identification information.

[0014] In addition, other methods for implementing the present invention, other systems, and computer-readable recording media storing a computer program for executing the method may be further provided.

[0015] Other aspects, features and advantages other than those described above will become apparent from the following drawings, claims and detailed description of the invention.

[0016] According to the present invention, it is possible to easily manage a plurality of pieces of identification information by recognizing the identification information of a plurality of MLPE devices.

[0017] In addition, by generating a layout based on the location information of solar modules corresponding to multiple MLPE devices, location information of solar modules including MLPE devices can be easily collected and managed.

[0018] Additionally, by creating a guide template that includes a layout plan for multiple solar modules or MLPE devices that can output optimal power generation, installer errors can be minimized and efficient installation can be supported.

[0019] In addition, by obtaining azimuth information from an image including a state in which multiple solar modules are installed and rotating the layout, more accurate mapping results can be generated by actually reflecting the field conditions.

[0020] Additionally, the layout can be optimized while maintaining visual consistency by generating a modified layout that rotates the layout and excludes text containing identification information in response to the azimuth information.

[0021] In addition, if the identification information of the MLPE device is lost or cannot be recognized, it can be replaced by recognizing the identification information of the solar module, thereby improving convenience of use.

[0022] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0023] FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically illustrating the configuration of a device for automatically mapping an inverter of a solar module according to one embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating a method for automatically mapping an inverter of a solar module according to one embodiment.

[0025] Figures 3 to 6 are exemplary diagrams illustrating automatic mapping of a solar module to an inverter according to one embodiment.

[0026] The advantages and features of the present invention, and the methods for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described in detail together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments presented below, but may be implemented in various different forms, and it should be understood that it includes all transformations, equivalents, and substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present invention. The embodiments presented below are provided to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the invention of the scope of the invention. In describing the present invention, if a detailed description of a related known technology is judged to obscure the gist of the present invention, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0027] The terminology used in this application is only used to describe specific embodiments and is not intended to limit the present invention. The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, it should be understood that the terms "comprise" or "have" are intended to indicate the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification, but do not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof. Terms such as first, second, etc. may be used to describe various components, but the components should not be limited by the terms. The terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0028] Additionally, in the present application, a “part” may be a hardware component such as a processor or circuit, and / or a software component executed by a hardware component such as a processor.

[0029] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In describing with reference to the attached drawings, identical or corresponding components are assigned the same drawing numbers, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0030] In the following examples, the terms first, second, etc. are not used in a limiting sense, but are used for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0031] In the examples below, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0032] In the following examples, terms such as “include” or “have” mean that a feature or component described in the specification is present, and do not preclude the possibility that one or more other features or components may be added.

[0033] In some embodiments, where the implementation is otherwise feasible, a particular process sequence may be performed in a different order than described. For example, two processes described in succession may be performed substantially simultaneously, or in a reverse order from the described order.

[0034] FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically illustrating the configuration of a device for automatically mapping an inverter of a solar module according to one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 1, a device (100) for automatically mapping an inverter of a solar module (hereinafter referred to as device (100)) may include a memory (110) and a processor (120).

[0035] The device (100) illustrated in FIG. 1 only shows components related to the present embodiments, and it is obvious to those skilled in the art that other general components may be included in addition to the components illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0036] For example, the device (100) may be implemented as various types of devices such as a notebook PC, a desktop PC, a laptop, a tablet computer, a mobile device including a smart phone, a server device, an embedded device, etc. As a specific example, the device (100) may correspond to a smart phone, a tablet device, an AR (Augmented Reality) device, an IoT (Internet of Things) device, an autonomous vehicle, etc. that perform voice recognition, image recognition, image classification, etc. using artificial intelligence, but is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the device (100) may include a dedicated hardware accelerator (HW accelerator) mounted on the above-mentioned devices, and the device (100) may include a hardware accelerator such as an NPU (neural processing unit), a TPU (Tensor Processing Unit), a Neural Engine, etc., which are dedicated modules for artificial intelligence operation, but is not limited thereto.

[0037] The memory (110) is hardware that stores various data processed within the device (100), and may include a computer-readable recording medium. For example, the memory (110) may store data processed and data to be processed within the device (100). In addition, the memory (110) may store applications, drivers, etc. to be driven by the device (100). The memory (110) may include at least one of volatile memory and nonvolatile memory. The volatile memory may include dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), phase-change random access memory (PRAM), magnetic random access memory (MRAM), resistive random access memory (RRAM), ferroelectric random access memory (FeRAM), etc. Non-volatile memory may include read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), electrically programmable read-only memory (EPROM), and electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM).

[0038] In an embodiment, the memory (110) may include, but is not limited to, magnetic memory, CD-ROM, Blu-ray or other optical disk storage, hard disk drive (HDD), solid state drive (SSD), compact flash (CF), secure digital (SD), micro secure digital (Micro-SD), mini secure digital (Mini-SD), extreme digital (xD), or Memory Stick. In addition, the memory (110) may store an operating system and at least one program code (code for execution by a processor (120) operating with reference to FIGS. 2 to 6).

[0039] The processor (120) may serve to control the overall functions for executing the device (100) with reference to FIGS. 2 to 6. For example, the processor (120) may control at least one other component (e.g., hardware or software component) of an electronic device connected to the processor (120) by executing software (e.g., program) stored in the memory (110) within the device (100), and may perform various data processing or operations to control the device (100) as a whole.

[0040] For example, the processor (120) may generate a guide template including a layout plan of a solar power system to output an optimal amount of power generation based on at least one of environmental conditions of a site where a solar power system (not shown) is to be installed and the performance of the solar power system. When the processor (120) receives the completion of installation of the solar power system in response to the guide template, the processor (120) may receive a list of identification information of MLPE devices each corresponding to a plurality of solar modules included in the solar power system. The processor (120) may receive a template image that captures a result in which a first code separated from the MLPE device is attached to the guide template. The processor (120) may obtain location information and identification information of the MLPE device corresponding to the first code from the template image. The processor (120) may generate a first layout diagram of the MLPE device based on the location information and the identification information.

[0041] Meanwhile, the processor (120) may compare the number of identification information of the MLPE device in the identification information list with the number of identification information corresponding to the plurality of recognized first codes, and if they do not match, may send an alarm and recommend location information on the first layout of the MLPE device corresponding to the unrecognized first code. In addition, the processor (120) may modify the first layout based on the recommended location information.

[0042] Meanwhile, the processor (120) can obtain orientation information from the guide template image. Based on the orientation information, the processor (120) can generate a second layout by rotating the first layout excluding the identification information.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may be implemented as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an application processor (AP), a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor (ISP), a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor (CP) provided in the device (100), but is not limited thereto.

[0044] Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating a method for automatically mapping an inverter of a solar module according to one embodiment. In the following description, any portions that overlap with the description of Figure 1 will be omitted.

[0045] The solar power generation system (not shown) according to the present embodiment may refer to a power generation system that converts solar energy into electrical energy. The solar power generation system may include a plurality of photovoltaic (PV) modules, and each solar module may include a module-level power electronics device (MLPE device, not shown) that optimizes power generation and manages power conversion.

[0046] In this embodiment, the MLPE device may be replaced with an optimizer or a micro inverter. For example, if the MLPE device is an optimizer, the optimizer may regulate the power generated by the solar panel and output it to an inverter (e.g., a string inverter). The current converted by the inverter (e.g., converting direct current to alternating current) may be output to a load or the grid. As another example, if the MLPE device is a micro inverter, the micro inverter may convert the power generated by the solar panel. The current converted by the micro inverter may be output to a load or the grid.

[0047] A solar module is a module that generates electricity using the photovoltaic effect, and multiple solar modules can be interconnected to form a photovoltaic module array. The photovoltaic module array may be formed by connecting multiple solar modules in series or in parallel. In addition, the photovoltaic module array may include at least one photovoltaic module string. In one embodiment, when multiple solar modules are connected in series, the multiple solar modules can form a single photovoltaic module array through one photovoltaic module string. In another embodiment, when multiple solar modules are connected in parallel, the multiple solar modules can form a single photovoltaic module array through the multiple photovoltaic module strings.

[0048] Meanwhile, MLPE devices can be connected one-to-one to solar modules, converting the power generated by the solar modules and optimizing power generation.

[0049] This embodiment will be described as an example of a solar power generation system including at least one solar module array.

[0050] A solar power generation system may include a plurality of solar module arrays, and the solar module array may include at least one solar module string comprising a plurality of solar modules. Therefore, each of the plurality of solar modules needs to be managed individually.

[0051] Accordingly, when installing or replacing a solar module to install a solar power generation system, the user can match the identification information of the solar module or the identification information of the MLPE device with the location information where the solar module or MLPE device is installed.

[0052] In step S210, the processor (120) can generate a guide template including a layout plan of the solar power system to output an optimal amount of power generation based on at least one of the environmental conditions of the site where the solar power system (not shown) is to be installed and the performance of the solar power system.

[0053] In the present embodiment, the environmental conditions may include one or more of the location of the building on which the solar system is to be installed, the shape and size of the building's roof or rooftop, the blueprint of the building, the location where the solar panels can be installed, and the angle of incidence of the sun. In addition, the performance of the solar system may include one or more of the performance of the solar module and the performance of the MLPE device. The performance of the solar module may include one or more of the performance of the solar module including one or more of the maximum output, efficiency, and temperature coefficient. The performance of the MLPE device may include one or more of the maximum output, efficiency, maximum tracking efficiency, and input / output voltage range. In the present embodiment, the environmental conditions and the performance of the solar system may be input by an installer or may be received by the processor (120) with the help of an installer.

[0054] In the present embodiment, when generating a guide template, the processor (120) may load an initial template composed of a plurality of grid areas. The processor (120) may extract grid areas at locations where MLPE devices are to be placed from the initial template in accordance with a layout plan of a solar power system. The processor (120) may determine a combination result for one or more of the extracted grid areas as a guide template. Here, the guide template may include a first code array plate to which a first code, described below, is attached. The guide template may be printed in the form of a paper template.

[0055] Since the layout of a solar system is generated based on environmental conditions and / or the performance of the solar system, the first code array plate is not necessarily limited to a rectangular arrangement, but can include various configurations such as circular or polygonal arrangements. Creating such a guide template allows users (or installers) to attach the first code only to the appropriate array plate, minimizing user (or installer) errors.

[0056] As an optional example, the processor (120) may generate a guide template including a layout plan of a solar power system that outputs an optimal amount of power generation based on at least one of the environmental conditions of the site where the solar power system is to be installed and the performance of the solar power system, using a pre-trained deep neural network model to generate a guide template corresponding to at least one of the environmental conditions of the site where the solar power system is to be installed and the performance of the solar power system. Here, the deep neural network model may be a model trained in a supervised learning manner by training data that inputs environmental conditions including at least one of the location of a building with respect to the site where the solar power system is to be installed, the shape and size of the roof or rooftop of the building, the blueprint of the building, a location where solar panels can be installed, and an angle of incidence of the sun, and performance of the solar power system including performance of a solar module including at least one of maximum output, efficiency, and temperature coefficient, and performance of an MLPE device including at least one of maximum output, efficiency, maximum tracking efficiency, and input / output voltage range, and has the guide template as a label.

[0057] The processor (120) can train an initially set deep neural network model using a supervised learning method using labeled training data. Here, the initially set deep neural network model is an initial model designed to be configured as a model capable of generating a guide template in response to at least one of environmental information and the performance of a solar power system, and the parameter values ​​may be set to arbitrary initial values. As the initial model is trained using the above-described training data, the parameter values ​​may be optimized, thereby completing the model as a generation model capable of accurately generating a guide template in response to at least one of environmental information and the performance of a solar power system.

[0058] In step S220, the processor (120) may receive a list of identification information of MLPE devices corresponding to each of a plurality of solar modules included in the solar system, as the installation of the solar system is completed in response to the guide template.

[0059] A solar power generation system may include multiple solar modules, and MLPE devices may correspond one-to-one to a solar module.

[0060] The identification information list may refer to a list containing identification information of MLPE devices installed in a solar power generation system. The identification information of the MLPE device may include a serial number set when the MLPE device is manufactured or shipped. In addition, according to one embodiment, the identification information of the MLPE device may include an address, product number, etc. assigned to the MLPE device. The identification information of the MLPE device may be composed of a combination of letters, numbers, or symbols. In addition, the identification information of the MLPE device may be set to exhibit regularity according to the installation location or layout structure of the MLPE device.

[0061] In step S230, the processor (120) can receive a template image in which the first code separated from the MLPE device is attached to the guide template.

[0062] A template image containing the first code may include multiple zones, each of which may be used to indicate location information and identification information of an MLPE device.

[0063] The first code may take the form of a one-dimensional (1D) code or a two-dimensional (2D) code. A one-dimensional (1D) code is a line-based code that may contain horizontally arranged information. A two-dimensional (2D) code is a square or rectangular code that may contain horizontally arranged information.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the first code may include a QR code (quick response code) in the form of a two-dimensional code, and the QR code may be used to indicate identification information of the MLPE device. Accordingly, the first code may include identification information such as a serial number or product number of the MLPE device, and the processor (120) may obtain identification information of the MLPE device corresponding to the first code by recognizing or scanning the first code.

[0065] Meanwhile, the first code is not limited to a two-dimensional code, and may be a one-dimensional code in the form of a barcode or another form of identifier code. However, for the convenience of explanation, the first code will be described below in the form of a QR code.

[0066] The processor (120) may obtain a template image including the first code by a process of photographing or scanning according to one embodiment, and may also obtain the image by direct input from a user according to another embodiment.

[0067] In the present embodiment, since the guide template is not limited to a rectangular array plate and can be created as an array plate of various shapes, the scanning applied when creating the template image does not need to be performed in a fixed order like conventional snake mapping. That is, the first code can be freely attached to the guide template and scanned every time the first code is attached.

[0068] When installing an MLPE device, a user (or installer) may remove the first code attached to the MLPE device and attach the removed first code to a designated area within the guide template. Accordingly, the template image including the first code may include a photographic form of the guide template to which the first code is attached. The template image according to the present embodiment may include a form that may include location information and identification information, rather than a physical photograph in the strict sense.

[0069] In step S240, the processor (120) can obtain location information and identification information of the MLPE device corresponding to the first code from the template image.

[0070] The processor (120) can identify coordinate information of an area to which a first code is attached from an input template image, and can obtain location information of an MLPE device using the coordinate information.

[0071] In one embodiment, if the first code is attached or recognized as attached to multiple zones due to a user error or misrecognition by the processor (120), the coordinate information of the zones to which the first code is attached may be identified in multiple places. In this case, the processor (120) may calculate and compare the area of ​​the first code included in each zone, and may correspond the coordinate information of the zone containing the largest area of ​​the first code to the location information of the first code.

[0072] If the processor (120) recognizes that the first code is not attached to a zone, it may recognize that no MLPE device is installed at a location corresponding to the zone.

[0073] In step S250, the processor (120) may generate a first layout diagram of the MLPE device based on the location information and identification information. The processor (120) may output the generated first layout diagram to a user terminal.

[0074] The processor (120) can receive a template image including a first code through an application (APP), generate a first layout diagram of an MLPE device using the application, and output the first layout diagram of the MLPE device to a user's terminal.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may place a first code in the first layout to correspond to the location information, and in addition to the first code, may place identification information of the MLPE device or real-time power generation information of a solar module corresponding to the MLPE device. The processor (120) may receive power generation information through a controller that is attached to or connected to the solar module and can control or monitor the solar panel. Here, the power generation information may include voltage, current, power generation amount, temperature, defects, etc. of the solar module, and the controller may include a communication module that can transmit the monitored information to an external device.

[0076] According to one embodiment, when the processor (120) places the first code to generate the first layout, the user can check the layout status of the MLPE device through the first layout within the application of the user terminal, and by touching the first code on the first layout, the user can check detailed information about the status or power generation information of the MLPE device and solar module corresponding to the first code.

[0077] According to another embodiment, when the processor (120) generates a first layout by arranging real-time power generation information, the user can check the layout status of the MLPE device through the first layout within the application of the user terminal, and can check the status or power generation information of the solar module corresponding to the MLPE device at a glance in a simplified form.

[0078] A user can change the position of the first code in the first layout by using drag and drop, and the processor (120) can generate the first layout by reflecting the position information of the MLPE device changed by the user's drag and drop input.

[0079] Specifically, the processor (120) can receive a drag-and-drop input regarding the location information of the MLPE device. The processor (120) can change the location information of the MLPE device in response to receiving the drag-and-drop input. The processor (120) can reflect the result of changing the location information of the MLPE device in the first layout diagram.

[0080] As an optional example, the processor (120) may compare the number of identification information of the MLPE device in the identification information list with the number of identification information corresponding to the plurality of recognized first codes, and if there is a mismatch, may send an alarm and recommend location information on the first layout of the MLPE device corresponding to the unrecognized first code.

[0081] Specifically, the processor (120) may compare the number of pieces of identification information of the MLPE device in the identification information list of the MLPE device received in step S220 with the number of pieces of identification information of the first code recognized in step S240. If the results of the comparison do not match, this may include cases where the first code is not recognized by the processor (120) or the first code is not attached due to a mistake by the user (or installer). In this case, the processor (120) may send an alarm to the user regarding the unrecognized or unattached first code, and may recommend location information of the MLPE device corresponding to the unrecognized or unattached first code to the user.

[0082] The processor (120) can calculate location information to which the first code should correspond based on the guide template generated in step S210. For example, if there is first location information to which the first code should correspond but to which there is no corresponding first code, the processor (120) can recommend the first location information as location information of an MLPE device corresponding to the unrecognized or unattached first code.

[0083] If there is only one unrecognized or unattached first code, the processor (120) may skip the process of sending an alarm and recommending location information for the unrecognized or unattached first code, and then input the first location information into the location information of the MLPE device corresponding to the unrecognized or unattached first code. In addition, the processor (120) may output a first layout diagram generated based on the input first location information to the user terminal, and may express that the first location information has been input to the first code by applying a different color, blinking, emphasis, or other expression to the first layout diagram for the unrecognized or unattached first code.

[0084] If there are two or more first codes that are not recognized or attached, there may be multiple pieces of first location information that must correspond to a first code but do not have a corresponding first code, and the processor (120) may recommend multiple pieces of first location information to the user for the location information of the MLPE device corresponding to the first code that is not recognized or attached, and input the first location information selected by the user as the location information of the MLPE device. If there is any remaining first location information that is not selected by the user, the processor (120) may input the remaining first location information into the first code for which the location information is not input, without a selection by the user, to generate the first layout.

[0085] As an optional embodiment, the processor (120) may obtain orientation information from a guide template image and generate a second layout by rotating the first layout excluding the identification information based on the orientation information. Here, the orientation information may include at least one of a tilt angle and an azimuth angle.

[0086] The template image including the first code may include a compass or compass identifier indicating compass information. In addition, the template image may include compass information in the form of text input by the user (or installer). The processor (120) may obtain compass information based on the compass or compass identifier, or compass information in the form of text input by the installer. For example, if the paper template includes a four-directional compass in the upper left corner, the processor (120) may correct the angle of the template image including the first code in the form of a photograph of the paper template based on the four-directional compass, and may generate a second layout plan by rotating the first layout plan based on the corrected angle.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may detect identification information by applying a text recognition algorithm to the first layout. The processor (120) may rotate the first layout based on the orientation information, and determine the result of excluding the rotation of the identification information when rotating the first layout as the second layout.

[0088] In this embodiment, the first code included in the first layout may include an icon and identification information. The icon may represent an image that replaces the first code, and the identification information may represent serial number text. Furthermore, rotating the first layout may include rotating the remaining components, excluding the identification information representing the serial number text, based on orientation information.

[0089] In the present embodiment, the processor (120) may apply the result of unidirectionally aligning the output direction of the identification information to the second layout. Here, unidirectionally aligning the output direction of the identification information may include aligning the identification information in the same direction as other text included in the template image, for example, customer, installer, panel group, azimuth, and tilt.

[0090] Figure 3 is an exemplary diagram of an initial template and a guide template according to one embodiment. In the following description, any parts that overlap with the descriptions of Figures 1 and 2 will be omitted.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 3, (a) of FIG. 3 is a paper template (301) to which a plurality of first codes are attached, and may include a plurality of grid areas. For example, the plurality of grid areas may be configured in a table-like form, and the rows within the table may be expressed by numerical indices in the form of 1, 2, 3, 쪋, respectively, and the columns within the table may be expressed by English indices in the form of A, B, C, 쪋, respectively. Accordingly, in this case, any cell within the table may be expressed using a row index and a column index, and an area within the first row and the first column within the table may be expressed as A1.

[0092] (b) of Fig. 3 is a guide template (304) to which a plurality of first codes are attached, and may include a layout plan of the solar power system to output an optimal amount of power generation based on at least one of the environmental conditions of the site where the solar power system is to be installed and the performance of the solar power system.

[0093] Comparing (a) and (b) of FIG. 3, the initial template illustrated in (a) of FIG. 3 includes a rectangular array, and the plurality of grid regions included in the rectangular array may include regions where the first code is attached and regions where the first code is not attached. Meanwhile, the guide template illustrated in (b) of FIG. 3 includes various shapes such as a circular array and a polygonal array, and the plurality of grid regions may include only regions where the first code is attached.

[0094] The difference between (a) and (b) of FIG. 3 is that (a) of FIG. 3 includes an area where the first code is attached and an area where the first code is not attached, which may cause a user (or installer) to make the mistake of attaching the first code to an area where the first code is not supposed to be attached. However, (b) of FIG. 3 only includes an area where the first code is attached, which minimizes user (or installer) errors.

[0095] Meanwhile, (a) and (b) of FIG. 3 may include a direction mark (302, 305) or a direction identifier (303, 306) indicating direction information. The processor (120) according to the present embodiment may obtain direction information based on the direction mark (305), the direction identifier (306), or the direction information-related text entered by the user (or installer) into the guide template (304).

[0096] FIG. 4 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a process for recognizing a template image and outputting a first layout diagram according to one embodiment. In the following description, any portions that overlap with the descriptions of FIGS. 1 to 3 will be omitted.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 4, the processor (120) may receive a template image (402) including a first code from a user using a user terminal (401). Specifically, the processor (120) may receive a template image (402) including a first code from a user through an application in the user terminal (401). According to one embodiment, the application in the user terminal (401) is displayed on a display interface of the user terminal (401), and an icon corresponding to a function of receiving or capturing an image may be displayed on the user interface of the application displayed in the user terminal (401). For example, the user may touch a photo album icon corresponding to a function of receiving an image in order to input a template image (402) including a plurality of first codes into the user terminal (401), and the user terminal (401) may display an image stored therein. When a user selects a template image (402) including a first code among the displayed images, the processor (120) can obtain a template image (402) including a plurality of first codes selected by the user. In another embodiment, the user can touch a camera icon corresponding to a function of taking an image to take a picture of a guide template including a plurality of first codes using a user terminal (401), and the user terminal (401) can take a picture of the guide template including a plurality of first codes with an internal camera to obtain a template image (402) including a plurality of first codes.

[0098] When the processor (120) obtains a template image (402) including a plurality of first codes, the processor (120) can recognize the first code and obtain location information and identification information of an MLPE device corresponding to the first code. The processor (120) can generate a first layout diagram (403) of the MLPE device based on the obtained location information and identification information, and output the first layout diagram (403) of the MLPE device to a user interface of an application in a user terminal (401). In the present embodiment, the first layout diagram (403) can include an icon representing an image that replaces the first code and identification information representing serial number text.

[0099] FIG. 5 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a process for changing the location information of an MLPE device according to one embodiment. In the following description, any portions that overlap with the descriptions of FIGS. 1 to 4 will be omitted.

[0100] Referring to FIG. 5, for the first layout diagram (501) output to the user terminal (401) generated by the processor (120), a result (502) of changing the position of the first code included in the first layout diagram (501) by receiving a drag & drop from the user can be generated.

[0101] Specifically, the processor (120) can receive a drag-and-drop input regarding the location information of the MLPE device. The processor (120) can change the location information of the MLPE device in response to receiving the drag-and-drop input. The processor (120) can reflect the result of changing the location information of the MLPE device in the first layout diagram (501) and output the result (502).

[0102] Figure 6 is an exemplary diagram illustrating a process for generating a second layout based on azimuth information according to one embodiment. In the following description, any portions that overlap with the descriptions of Figures 1 to 5 will be omitted.

[0103] Referring to FIG. 6, the processor (120) may receive a template image (402) including a plurality of first codes from a user using a user terminal (401). When the processor (120) obtains the template image (402) including a plurality of first codes, the processor (120) may recognize the first code and obtain location information and identification information of an MLPE device corresponding to the first code. The processor (120) may generate a first layout diagram (403) of the MLPE device based on the obtained location information and identification information, and output the first layout diagram (403) of the MLPE device to a user interface of an application in the user terminal (401). In the present embodiment, the first layout diagram (403) may include an icon representing an image that replaces the first code and identification information representing serial number text.

[0104] Meanwhile, the processor (120) can generate a second layout (601) by rotating the first layout (403) excluding the identification information based on the acquired azimuth information.

[0105] The template image containing the first code may include a compass or compass identifier indicating compass information. Additionally, the template image may include compass information in text form entered by the user (or installer). The processor (120) may acquire compass information based on the compass or compass identifier, or compass information in text form entered by the installer.

[0106] The processor (120) can detect identification information by applying a text recognition algorithm to the first layout diagram (403). The processor (120) can rotate the first layout diagram (403) based on the azimuth information, and determine the result of excluding the rotation of the identification information when rotating the first layout diagram (403) as the second layout diagram (601).

[0107] The processor (120) can apply the result of aligning the output direction of the identification information in one direction to the second layout diagram (601). Here, aligning the output direction of the identification information in one direction may include aligning the identification information in the same direction as other text included in the template image, for example, customer, installer, panel group, azimuth, and tilt.

[0108] The embodiments of the present invention described above may be implemented in the form of a computer program that can be executed through various components on a computer, and such a computer program may be recorded on a computer-readable medium. At this time, the medium may include a magnetic medium such as a hard disk, a floppy disk, and a magnetic tape, an optical recording medium such as a CD-ROM and a DVD, a magneto-optical medium such as a floptical disk, and a hardware device specifically configured to store and execute program instructions, such as a ROM, a RAM, a flash memory, etc.

[0109] Meanwhile, the computer program may be specifically designed and constructed for the present invention, or may be one known and available to those skilled in the computer software field. Examples of computer programs may include not only machine language code, such as that generated by a compiler, but also high-level language code that can be executed by a computer using an interpreter or the like.

[0110] The use of the term "above" and similar referential terms in the specification of the present invention (especially in the claims) may refer to both singular and plural. Furthermore, when a range is described in the present invention, it is intended that the invention encompasses inventions that apply individual values ​​falling within the range (unless otherwise stated), and is equivalent to describing each individual value constituting the range in the detailed description of the invention.

[0111] Unless the steps constituting the method according to the present invention are explicitly described in a specific order or are not described to the contrary, the steps may be performed in any appropriate order. The present invention is not necessarily limited to the order in which the steps are described. The use of all examples or exemplary terms (e.g., "for example," etc.) in the present invention is merely intended to illustrate the present invention in detail, and the scope of the present invention is not limited by the examples or exemplary terms unless otherwise defined by the claims. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, combinations, and variations can be configured according to design conditions and factors within the scope of the appended claims or their equivalents.

[0112] Therefore, the idea of ​​the present invention should not be limited to the embodiments described above, and all scopes equivalent to or equivalently modified from the following claims as well as the claims are considered to fall within the scope of the idea of ​​the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for automatically mapping an inverter of a solar module, the method being performed by a processor of a device for automatically mapping an inverter of a solar module, A step of generating a guide template including a layout plan for the solar power system to output an optimal amount of power generation based on at least one of the environmental conditions of the site where the solar power system is to be installed and the performance of the solar power system; Upon receiving completion of installation of the solar power system in response to the above guide template, a step of receiving a list of identification information of MLPE devices each corresponding to a plurality of solar modules included in the solar power system; A step of receiving a template image in which a first code separated from the MLPE device is attached to the guide template; A step of obtaining location information and identification information of the MLPE device corresponding to the first code from the template image; and Comprising a step of generating a first layout diagram of the MLPE device based on the location information and identification information, How to automatically map inverters in solar modules.

2. In paragraph 1, The steps for creating the above guide template are: A step of loading an initial template consisting of multiple grid areas; A step of extracting a grid area of ​​a location where the MLPE device is to be placed from the initial template in response to the layout plan of the solar power system; and A step of determining a combination result for one or more of the extracted grid areas as the guide template, How to automatically map inverters in solar modules.

3. In paragraph 1, The step of obtaining location information and identification information of the above MLPE device is: A step of recognizing the first code included in the template image, identifying coordinate information of an area to which the first code is attached, and obtaining location information of the device using the coordinate information, How to automatically map inverters in solar modules.

4. In paragraph 1, The step of generating the above first layout diagram is: A step of receiving a drag-and-drop input for location information of the above MLPE device; A step of changing the location information of the MLPE device in response to receiving the drag and drop input; and Further comprising a step of reflecting the result of changing the location information of the MLPE device in the first layout diagram. How to automatically map inverters in solar modules.

5. In paragraph 1, After the step of generating the above first layout, A step of obtaining azimuth information from the above template image; and Further comprising a step of generating a second layout by rotating the first layout excluding the identification information based on the azimuth information. How to automatically map inverters in solar modules.

6. In paragraph 5, The step of obtaining the above azimuth information is: A step of obtaining direction information based on one or more of a direction indicator, a direction identifier, and text entered by an installer included in the above template image, How to automatically map inverters in solar modules.

7. In paragraph 5, The step of generating the above second layout diagram is: A step of detecting the identification information by applying a text recognition algorithm to the first layout; and A step of rotating the first layout based on the azimuth information and determining the result of excluding the rotation of the identification information when rotating the first layout as the second layout, How to automatically map inverters in solar modules.

8. In paragraph 7, The step of determining the second layout above is: Further comprising a step of applying the result of aligning the output direction of the above identification information in one direction to the second layout diagram. How to automatically map inverters in solar modules.

9. A computer-readable recording medium storing a computer program for executing the method of paragraph 1 using a computer.

10. As a device that automatically maps the inverter of a solar module, at least one processor; and Contains at least one memory, At least one processor, Based on one or more of the environmental conditions of the site where the solar power system is to be installed and the performance of the solar power system, a guide template including a layout plan for the solar power system capable of outputting the optimal amount of power generation is created. Upon receiving completion of installation of the solar system in response to the above guide template, a list of identification information of MLPE devices corresponding to each of a plurality of solar modules included in the solar system is received, Receive a template image including a result of the first code separated from the MLPE device being attached to the guide template, Obtaining location information and identification information of the MLPE device corresponding to the first code from the template image, configured to generate a first layout diagram of the MLPE device based on the location information and identification information; A device that automatically maps the inverter of a solar module.

11. In paragraph 10, At least one processor, When creating the above guide template, load the initial template consisting of multiple grid areas, In response to the layout plan of the above solar power system, a grid area of ​​the location where the MLPE device is to be placed is extracted from the initial template, configured to determine the combined result for one or more of the extracted grid areas as the guide template, A device that automatically maps the inverter of a solar module.

12. In paragraph 10, At least one processor, When acquiring the location information and identification information of the MLPE device, the first code included in the template image is recognized, coordinate information of the area to which the first code is attached is identified, and location information of the MLPE device is acquired using the coordinate information. A device that automatically maps the inverter of a solar module.

13. In paragraph 10, At least one processor, When generating the above first layout, a drag and drop input for the location information of the MLPE device is received, Change the location information of the MLPE device in response to receiving the drag and drop input, Further configured to reflect the result of changing the location information of the above MLPE device in the above first layout diagram, A device that automatically maps the inverter of a solar module.

14. In paragraph 10, At least one processor, After generating the above first layout, azimuth information is obtained from the template image, Further configured to generate a second layout by rotating the first layout excluding the identification information based on the above azimuth information. A device that automatically maps the inverter of a solar module.

15. In paragraph 14, At least one processor, configured to acquire direction information based on one or more of the direction indicator, direction identifier, and text entered by the installer included in the above template image; A device that automatically maps the inverter of a solar module.

16. In paragraph 14, At least one processor, When generating the second layout, the identification information is detected by applying a text recognition algorithm to the first layout, It is configured to rotate the first layout based on the above azimuth information, and determine the result of excluding the rotation of the identification information when rotating the first layout as the second layout. A device that automatically maps the inverter of a solar module.

17. In paragraph 16, At least one processor, When determining the second layout, the result of aligning the identification information in one direction is further configured to be applied to the second layout. A device that automatically maps the inverter of a solar module.

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