Integrated Bar-Shaped Inverter for Photovoltaic Panel Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of power conversion devices like micro-inverters on photovoltaic modules is cumbersome, error-prone, and poses safety risks due to difficult access at installation sites, typically roofs.
Innovation Solution
A photovoltaic power generation apparatus with a bar-shaped inverter device integrated onto the photovoltaic panel, pre-assembled with terminal members, allowing for easy integration and transportation, reducing on-site installation complexity and safety hazards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a power conversion device is electrically connected to a photovoltaic module on the installation site, then the photovoltaic system can convert DC power to AC power, but the installation and connection process becomes cumbersome and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the inverter device directly onto the photovoltaic module, merging two previously separate components (photovoltaic module and inverter) into a single integrated unit. This eliminates the need for separate electrical connections and mounting operations, making installation simpler and less error-prone while maintaining full power conversion capability
Solution Approach 2:
The inverter device is pre-assembled and electrically connected to the photovoltaic module during manufacturing before shipment. This preliminary action transfers the complex electrical connection work from the installation site to the factory setting, where it can be performed more accurately and efficiently, reducing on-site installation complexity
2Power
If a power conversion device is installed on a roof or other difficult-to-access site, then the photovoltaic system can generate and convert power, but installation difficulty increases and safety problems occur
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the inverter device with the photovoltaic module into a single integrated unit, the patent eliminates the need to handle and install separate electrical components on difficult-to-access roofs. The integrated unit can be installed as one piece, reducing installation time, minimizing worker exposure to hazardous locations, and improving overall safety
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connections and component assemblies are completed in advance at the factory before the unit is shipped to the installation site. This preliminary preparation reduces the amount of complex work that must be performed on-site in difficult-to-access locations, thereby improving worker safety and reducing installation difficulty
3Power
If the inverter device housing extends beyond the photovoltaic panel frame, then the inverter circuit has sufficient space, but the overall apparatus height increases and transportation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the inverter device on the rear surface of the photovoltaic module and orientates its housing in a direction substantially perpendicular to the front surface, extending toward the rear. This dimensional arrangement allows the inverter circuit to have sufficient internal space while keeping the overall protrusion height minimal, as the housing utilizes the depth dimension of the module rather than extending beyond the frame boundaries
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
Facilitates efficient, safe, and cost-effective installation by integrating the inverter device with the panel, minimizing installation errors and enhancing system reliability and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
Photovoltaic power generation uses the photovoltaic effect of photovoltaic cells to convert solar or light energy into electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
the inverter circuit being electrically coupled to the plurality of terminal members and configured to convert direct current power received from the photovoltaic cell unit array via the plurality of terminal members into alternating current power
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a photovoltaic power generation apparatus and a photovoltaic power generation system. The photovoltaic power generation apparatus comprises: a photovoltaic panel comprising a photovoltaic cell unit array and a first surface and a second surface opposite each other; a plurality of terminal members mounted independently of each other on the first surface of the photovoltaic panel and each electrically coupled to a respective portion of photovoltaic cell units in the photovoltaic cell unit array; and an inverter device mounted on the first surface of the photovoltaic panel and comprising a bar-shaped hollow housing and an inverter circuit located in the bar-shaped hollow housing, the inverter circuit being electrically coupled to the plurality of terminal members and converting direct current power received from the photovoltaic cell unit array via the plurality of terminal members into alternating current power, the bar-shaped hollow housing being arranged to extend in an arrangement direction of the plurality of terminal members and to abut against the plurality of terminal members.