Adaptive Photovoltaic Block Placement for Topology Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing software tools for optimizing photovoltaic systems follow a one-objective approach, insufficiently assisting users in configuring systems and dividing optimization scope into individual criteria, making it difficult to simplify and accelerate the construction of photovoltaic systems and increase the number of available system possibilities.
Innovation Solution
A computer-assisted method for defining the structure of a photovoltaic system using adaptive blocks that can be placed in a given system area with local topology, allowing for multi-objective optimization by adapting row spacings and orientations to optimize system layout and power distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If existing software tools follow a one-objective approach to optimization, then individual optimization criteria can be addressed, but the overall system configuration assistance is insufficient and construction time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the photovoltaic system into standardized system blocks (e.g., inverter blocks, transformer blocks, panel arrays) that can be independently configured and optimized. Each block type has predefined parameters and relationships, allowing the complex overall system to be broken down into manageable segments that can be optimized individually and then assembled into complete system configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal system block framework that can represent multiple types of photovoltaic system components through a common structure. The system blocks are designed with generic interfaces and parameter sets that can accommodate different inverter types, transformer configurations, and panel arrangements, making the optimization tool applicable to diverse system configurations without requiring separate specialized software for each case.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the number of system possibilities is increased to provide more options, then better optimization compromises can be found, but the complexity of defining and managing structures increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic system block configurations where parameters such as row spacings, orientations, and block dimensions can be automatically adjusted based on optimization objectives and constraints. The system allows dynamic modification of block properties during the optimization process, enabling versatile system configurations without requiring manual redefinition of each structural parameter.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter-based system definition where varying key parameters (such as block size, spacing, orientation angles, and power ratings) generates different system configurations. By systematically changing these parameters within defined ranges and constraints, the tool can explore multiple system possibilities while maintaining consistent structural relationships, thus increasing versatility without proportionally increasing definition complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If row spacings are adapted to local topology during block placement, then system layout optimization is improved, but the computational time for each placement decision increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary calculations of optimal row spacings and block dimensions based on local topology characteristics before actual block placement. By pre-computing spacing adjustments required for different terrain conditions (such as slope angles and orientation), the system reduces the computational burden during the iterative placement process, as these parameters can be quickly retrieved rather than recalculated for each placement decision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local topology adaptation by adjusting system block parameters (particularly row spacings and orientations) according to the specific characteristics of each placement location. Rather than using uniform spacing throughout the system, the tool modifies local block configurations to match terrain features such as slopes and contours, achieving precise layout adaptation while using localized calculations only where topology variations occur.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for defining a structure of a photovoltaic system on a system surface with a local topology is provided, including: first placement of a block at a location on the system surface with the local topology; placing additional blocks at additional locations on the system surface without overlapping previously placed blocks, wherein prior to each placement, row spacing of the solar panels of each additional block is adapted to the topology at the location at which the respective additional block was placed, resulting in a change in the extension of the additional block in the direction of the column of solar panels of the additional block, and ending the placement of additional blocks if, by the placement of an additional block, the nominal capacity of a photovoltaic system corresponding to the structure were to be exceeded, or if no additional block can be placed without overlapping previously placed blocks.