Micro Inverter Power Boosting for Solar Module Utilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar photovoltaic systems face challenges in maximizing the utilization of solar module output power due to the mismatch between solar photovoltaic module and micro inverter ratings, leading to low utilization ratios and inefficiencies, especially under varying ambient temperatures.
Innovation Solution
A micro inverter system incorporating a DC-to-DC converter, DC-to-AC converter, temperature sensor, and microprocessor that utilizes a power boosting function based on ambient temperature readings to adjust output power, enabling the micro inverter to match and maximize the solar photovoltaic module's output power without additional module devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a micro inverter with a smaller rated output power value is selected to coordinate with the solar photovoltaic module, then the device complexity and cost are reduced, but the utilization ratio of the solar photovoltaic module output power is low due to power mismatch
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a power boosting function that dynamically adjusts the micro inverter's output power based on ambient temperature conditions. When the solar photovoltaic module output power exceeds the micro inverter's rated power (which occurs at lower temperatures), the system activates power boosting to increase the output capacity, thereby resolving the contradiction between using a smaller, simpler micro inverter and maximizing solar module utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the micro inverter by adjusting its output power capacity based on temperature-dependent characteristics of the solar photovoltaic module. The microprocessor monitors ambient temperature and accordingly modifies the power conversion parameters to enable the micro inverter to handle higher input power from the solar module when conditions permit, thus improving utilization ratio without requiring a larger-rated device.
2Productivity
If a micro inverter with a larger rated output power value is selected to coordinate with the solar photovoltaic module, then the utilization ratio of solar photovoltaic module output power is increased, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a statically oversized micro inverter, the patent employs dynamic power adjustment through the power boosting function. The micro inverter operates at its rated capacity under normal conditions but can temporarily exceed this capacity when the solar photovoltaic module generates excess power due to low temperatures, thus achieving high utilization ratio without requiring a larger-rated device.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the operational parameters of the power conversion circuitry based on real-time temperature and power input conditions. This allows the micro inverter to adapt its output capacity to match the solar module's variable output characteristics, eliminating the need for an oversized device while maintaining high power utilization across different environmental conditions.
3Device complexity
If the micro inverter operates without power boosting function, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different environmental conditions and power generation efficiency are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control mechanism where the microprocessor continuously monitors ambient temperature and solar module output power, then adjusts the power conversion parameters accordingly. This feedback loop enables the micro inverter to adapt to different environmental conditions by activating power boosting when temperature conditions indicate that the solar module is generating more power than the inverter's rated capacity can handle.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment based on environmental conditions without requiring external control. The microprocessor automatically detects temperature-dependent power output changes and activates the power boosting function when needed, allowing the micro inverter to self-adapt to varying ambient conditions and maximize power generation efficiency across different temperatures.
4Ease of manufacture
If the micro inverter operates without power boosting function, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but the power generation efficiency and utilization ratio are lowered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a dynamic power boosting capability to an otherwise standard micro inverter design. This allows the system to maintain simple, cost-effective hardware while introducing software-controlled dynamic operation that improves power generation efficiency by capturing and utilizing excess power from the solar module under favorable temperature conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves improved power generation efficiency through parameter adjustments in the control software rather than hardware modifications. By changing the operational parameters of the power conversion circuitry based on temperature and power input conditions, the system maximizes utilization of solar module output without requiring additional expensive hardware components.
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
The system enhances power generation efficiency, reduces costs, and adapts to different environmental conditions by boosting output power, thereby increasing the utilization ratio of solar module output and improving operational flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
a temperature sensor to detect an ambient temperature around the solar photovoltaic module and to produce a temperature detection signal
Implementation Method 2
a solar photovoltaic module producing a solar photovoltaic module output power
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating a micro inverter of a solar power system includes following steps: First, an output power value of a solar photovoltaic module is acquired. Afterward, it is to judge whether the micro inverter executes a power boosting mode. If the power boosting mode is executed, a maximum output power of the micro inverter is boosted from a rated output power value to a maximum output power value. Finally, it is to judge whether the output power value of the solar photovoltaic module is greater than the maximum output power value. If YES, the maximum output power value is outputted from the micro inverter.