Hybrid Partial Power Processing for PV Module MPP Tracking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for interfacing photovoltaic (PV) modules with utility grids, such as central and string inverters, fail to independently track the maximum power point (MPP) of each module due to manufacturing variability, aging, shading, and environmental factors, requiring costly components or complex control algorithms.

Innovation Solution

A hybrid partial power processing system using low-power differential power processing converters (DPPs) and a DC power optimizing converter (DC-PO) to exchange differential power between PV modules and a line capacitor, allowing independent MPP tracking of each module with simple, modular, and cost-effective control systems.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If central or string inverters are used to interface PV modules with utility grids, then the system structure is simple, but the maximum power point (MPP) of each module cannot be tracked independently

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem structureVSAvoidMPP tracking capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the power processing function into segments by introducing differential power processing converters (DPPs) at the module level. Each DPP handles only the differential power (difference between module output and string current) rather than the entire string current, enabling independent MPP tracking for each module while keeping individual converter ratings low and cost-effective.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Productivity

If costly components or complicated control algorithms are used to achieve independent MPP tracking, then the MPP tracking capability is improved, but the system cost and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveMPP tracking capabilityVSAvoidsystem cost and complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts only the essential function needed for independent MPP tracking by using DPPs that process only the differential power component. This extraction approach allows each module to have independent MPP tracking capability while using low-power, low-cost converters instead of requiring full-power expensive components or complex centralized control algorithms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operating parameters of the power processing system by using low voltage and low current ratings for the DPPs. Instead of using high-power converters rated for the entire string current, the system uses multiple low-power converters handling only the differential power, thereby reducing component cost and system complexity while maintaining MPP tracking capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If high voltage or current ratings are used in power converters, then the MPP tracking capability is improved, but the component cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveMPP tracking capabilityVSAvoidcomponent cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial action by having each DPP handle only the differential power portion rather than the full string current. This partial power processing approach allows the use of low-voltage, low-current rated components that are much cheaper than high-power converters, while still achieving the goal of independent MPP tracking for all modules in the string.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

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

Enables efficient and cost-effective maximum power point tracking (MPPT) of individual PV modules, achieving high efficiency, low losses, and scalability by using low-cost, low-power DPPs and DC-POs, ensuring all modules operate at their MPP.

Implementation Method 1

DC/DC power converter used to feed current (power) from a PV module to Clin

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPower conversion:

Implementation Method 2

differential power processing DC/DC converters to exchange differential power between two adjacent PV modules

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical energy transformation:

Data Source

PatentUS10147825B2Hybrid partial power processing system

Publication Date: 2018.12.04 HAMAD BIN KHALIFA UNIVERSITY

AI summary

The hybrid partial power processing system includes differential power processing converters DPPs having low power ratings, which are used to exchange differential power between two adjacent PV modules, or between PV modules and a line capacitor (Clin) connected in series within the same string. The exchange of differential power by DPPs is needed to track the maximum power point of each PV module in the string. The DC power optimizing converter (DC-PO) is a DC/DC power converter used to feed current (power) from a PV module to Clin. The DC-PO is driven to track the maximum power point (MPP) of one PV module, and the MPP of each one of the remaining PV modules in the string is tracked by a DPP.