Inverter Current Regulation for Solar Branch Circuit Overload
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing co-generation power systems, such as solar photovoltaic and wind power systems, face challenges when connected to non-dedicated branch circuits, as they can cause current overload due to the combination of utility and co-generation system currents exceeding the rated capacity of the branch circuit, posing a safety hazard.
Innovation Solution
An inverter system that adjusts the current supplied by the co-generation device based on the current sensed in the non-dedicated branch circuit, using a current sensor or transformer to ensure the total current does not exceed the rated capacity, by communicating with other inverters and potentially remote devices to control output and prevent overload.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If co-generation system supplies power into existing non-dedicated branch circuit, then ease of installation and operation is improved, but current overload hazard increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inverter incorporates a current sensing mechanism that continuously monitors the current flowing through the branch circuit and feeds this information back to the control system. Based on this feedback, the inverter dynamically adjusts its power output to ensure the total current (utility + co-generation) does not exceed the branch circuit's rated capacity, thereby preventing overheating and safety hazards while enabling easy connection to existing outlets.
2Reliability
If inverter adjusts current output based on sensed current, then current overload is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a current sensor (such as a current transformer or Hall effect sensor) as an intermediary device that measures the branch circuit current and provides this information to the inverter's control system. This intermediary sensing mechanism enables the inverter to adjust its output without requiring complex internal current measurement circuits, thereby achieving reliable overload prevention while keeping the overall device complexity manageable.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and system for preventing branch circuit current overload in a non-dedicated branch circuit where current is supplied at least in part by a co-generation power system through an electrical receptacle or outlet. Co-generation systems of this type are typically used in residential applications and can include solar photovoltaic systems and wind turbines. The apparatus modulates or adjusts the current flowing into the branch circuit from the co-generation power system so that the apparatus does not cause the combination of current supplied from the utility power grid into the branch circuit and current supplied by the co-generation system into the branch circuit outlet to exceed the branch circuit current capacity.