Grid-Connected Inverter Insulation Impedance Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for detecting insulation impedance of an inverter cannot accurately measure impedance to ground when the inverter is connected to a power grid, limiting the detection to only pre-connection scenarios.

Innovation Solution

A method involving a power supply that outputs different test signals to disturb the voltage or current of the power grid during grid-connected operation, allowing for the calculation of insulation impedance using a test resistor and voltage or current changes, enabling direct-current and alternating-current insulation impedance detection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional impedance detection methods are used with known voltage sources arranged between power grid and ground, then impedance to ground before inverter connection can be detected, but impedance to ground when inverter is connected to power grid cannot be detected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinsulation impedance detection capabilityVSAvoiddetection applicability during grid-connected operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the test voltage source switchable and controllable during grid-connected operation. The voltage source can be dynamically adjusted to output different test voltages (first and second test voltages) while the inverter is connected to the power grid, enabling real-time insulation impedance detection during operation rather than only before connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the voltage parameter by using two different test voltages with opposite polarities (first test voltage and second test voltage). By applying different voltage levels and measuring the corresponding current changes, the system can calculate insulation impedance dynamically during grid-connected operation, resolving the limitation of conventional single-voltage methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If test circuits are connected to detect insulation impedance during grid-connected operation, then detection accuracy improves, but mechanical stress and wear on switching components increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinsulation impedance detection accuracyVSAvoidservice life of switching components
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic action by detecting insulation impedance at specific intervals (before grid connection and after grid connection) rather than continuously. The test voltage source is activated only when needed for detection, reducing the operating time of switching components while still providing accurate impedance measurements at critical moments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent ensures continuity of useful action by maintaining the test voltage source readiness without requiring frequent mechanical switching. The controller can smoothly activate and deactivate the test voltage source based on operational conditions, minimizing mechanical stress on switches while ensuring detection capability is always available when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful 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 accurate and real-time detection of insulation impedance during grid-connected operation, improving detection accuracy and response speed while reducing mechanical stress on components.

Implementation Method 1

impedance of the power grid to ground is calculated based on a impedance voltage-division principle

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVoltage division principle:

Implementation Method 2

measures the insulation resistance with respect to ground of a DC power supply circuit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOhm's Law: Ohm's Law

Data Source

PatentEP4293375B1Inverter and method for detecting insulation impedance of inverter
Publication Date: 2026.03.11 SUNGROW POWER SUPPLY CO LTD
  • EP4293375B1 patent drawingFigure 1a~1b
  • EP4293375B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2b
  • EP4293375B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An inverter and a method for detecting insulation impedance of the inverter are provided. During grid-connected operation of the inverter, the method includes: controlling a power supply to output two different test signals, and recording voltages of a power grid to ground corresponding to the two test signals; and calculating the insulation impedance to ground of the inverter during the grid-connected operation of the inverter according to the two test signals and the voltages of the power grid to ground corresponding to the two test signals. According to the present disclosure, the power supply outputs different test signals to disturb the voltage of the power grid to ground, so as to detect insulation impedance of the inverter during grid-connected operation of the inverter.