Removable Inverter Docking for PV Module Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power inverter systems for photovoltaic modules require intervening wiring for connection, which can be cumbersome and limit ease of maintenance or replacement, as the power inverter is typically physically separate from the PV module.
Innovation Solution
A power inverter docking system that includes a docking member removably coupled to the PV module, a junction box with a PV connector port, and an inverter housing that selectively engages the junction box to form a connection with the power inverter, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly for maintenance or replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If intervening wiring is used to connect the PV module to the power inverter, then the power inverter can be physically separated from the PV module, but the connection becomes cumbersome and maintenance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power inverter housing with the PV module housing to form an integrated unit. The power inverter is positioned within or adjacent to the PV module housing, eliminating the need for separate wiring connections and making the inverter easily accessible for maintenance while maintaining a compact, unified structure
2Adaptability or versatility
If the power inverter is physically separated from the PV module with intervening wiring, then the system has flexibility in placement, but replacement and maintenance become cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power inverter and PV module into distinct functional components that are integrated within a unified housing structure. This allows the inverter to be easily removed and replaced while maintaining its functional integration with the PV module, enabling quick maintenance without complex wiring disconnections
3Ease of operation
If intervening wiring and associated hardware are used to couple the PV module to the power inverter, then the power inverter can be located apart from the PV module, but the system becomes more complex and harder to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power inverter housing with the PV module housing to create an integrated assembly. This eliminates multiple separate connection points and wiring harnesses, reducing potential failure points and improving connection reliability while simplifying the overall installation process
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 conversion of DC power to AC power while providing a modular and easily maintainable solution by allowing the power inverter to be removably coupled to the PV module, improving installation and maintenance efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The power inverter may convert direct current (DC) power generated by the PV module to alternating current (AC) power for various AC power applications
Data Source
AI summary
An electronics module docking system includes docking member removably coupled to a photovoltaic module. The docking system includes a first connector port electrically coupled to one or more photovoltaic cells of the photovoltaic module. The photovoltaic module is selectively coupleable to the docking member. The docking system includes a housing to enclose an electronics module. The housing may include second connector port that is selectively engageable to the power electronics module. The power electronics module and the photovoltaic cells are electrically coupled to one another upon selective engagement of the connector ports. The inverter housing is receivable by and removably coupleable to the docking member allowing the inverter housing to be removably coupleable to the photovoltaic module.