Distributed Solar Inverters with Segmented MPPT Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional centralized DC-AC power inverters in solar power systems are prone to failure, require large space, generate excessive heat and noise, are costly, and are inefficient due to non-uniform solar module performance, partial shading, and high installation costs, with MPPT only applicable at the system level and not per module.
Innovation Solution
The development of smart and scalable power inverters that can daisy chain, allowing for multiple DC sources to be connected to a single or multiple inverters, each with its own DC-DC boost converter and DC-AC inverter, using Model-Free Adaptive (MFA) controllers for real-time optimization and MPPT, enabling efficient DC to AC power conversion with automatic isolation of defective inverters and reduced wiring needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a centralized DC-AC power inverter is used, then power conversion is achieved, but the system is prone to failure and lacks reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the centralized inverter system into multiple distributed inverter modules, each handling a portion of the DC sources. This segmentation improves reliability because failure of one module does not affect the entire system, while each module maintains independent operation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the architectural parameter from centralized to distributed configuration. By transforming the system structure parameter, it achieves improved reliability without proportionally increasing overall device complexity, as the distributed modules can be independently managed and replaced.
2Power
If a centralized DC-AC power inverter is used, then power conversion is achieved, but large space is required and excessive heat and noise are generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the large centralized inverter into multiple smaller distributed inverter modules. Each module requires less installation space and generates proportionally less heat and noise, while collectively they maintain the required power conversion capability through parallel operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple small distributed inverter modules to achieve the total power conversion capability of a large centralized inverter. This merging approach distributes the thermal and acoustic loads across multiple units, reducing the burden on any single location.
3Power
If a centralized DC-AC power inverter is used, then power conversion is achieved, but the system is costly and has high installation costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power conversion system into standardized modular inverters that can be manufactured more efficiently and installed in a distributed manner. This reduces both manufacturing costs through standardization and installation costs through simplified wiring requirements and modular deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs distributed inverter modules with universal functionality that can handle multiple DC sources and be installed in various locations. This universality reduces customization costs and allows for standardized manufacturing and installation procedures across the entire system.
4Productivity
If a centralized DC-AC power inverter is used, then power conversion is achieved, but MPPT can only be applied at system level and not per module
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the MPPT control function to operate independently at each distributed inverter module level. This allows each module to perform Maximum Power Point Tracking on its connected DC sources, improving overall power generation efficiency by optimizing each module's input rather than relying on system-level aggregation.
5Power
If a centralized DC-AC power inverter is used, then power conversion is achieved, but extensive wiring is required causing high cost and labor intensity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the wiring architecture by placing inverters close to DC sources in a distributed manner. This reduces the length and gauge requirements of DC cables, lowering both material costs and installation labor, while maintaining the required power conversion capability through multiple local conversion points.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution provides scalable, flexible, and cost-effective solar power systems with improved efficiency, reduced downtime, and increased scalability, allowing for optimal power generation and easy expansion, while minimizing the impact of non-uniform solar module performance and shading issues.
Implementation Method 1
each with its own DC-DC boost converter and DC-AC inverter
Implementation Method 2
invert the DC power to AC power
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus is disclosed for intelligently inverting DC power from DC sources such as photovoltaic (PV) solar modules to single-phase or three-phase AC power to feed the power grid for electricity generation. A power inverter with multiple input channels or input ports that can connect to multiple DC sources is disclosed.