Multi-Input Single-Inductor Boost Converter for Solar MPPT
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar panel systems face inefficiencies due to partial shading, leading to reduced power output, and battery packs are affected by individual cell failures, resulting in suboptimal performance and high costs.
Innovation Solution
A distributed energy system architecture with a single-power-inductor, single-power-converter, and single Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) controller that uses a multiple-input single-inductor (MISI) boost power converter, allowing for efficient MPPT across multiple cell groups or panels under mismatching and partial shading conditions, and a control system that manages power switches and sensors to optimize energy transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a centralized power converter architecture is used, then the system cost is reduced, but the maximum power point tracking efficiency decreases under mismatching and partial shading conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the solar panel system into multiple independent cell groups, each capable of individual maximum power point tracking. This segmentation allows each group to operate independently under different irradiance conditions, preventing the entire system from being limited by shaded panels while maintaining cost-effectiveness through shared power converter infrastructure.
2Productivity
If string system architecture with multiple power converters is used, then the maximum power point tracking efficiency is improved under mismatching conditions, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cell groups into a unified power converter system where several inputs are processed by a single shared power converter. This merging approach maintains the efficiency benefits of individual cell group tracking while reducing the total number of power converters needed, thereby lowering device complexity and cost compared to having separate converters for each string.
3Speed
If bypass diodes are placed across each panel, then the current level of unshaded panels is maintained, but the power of bypassed panels is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the solar array into multiple independent cell groups, each with its own maximum power point tracking control. This segmentation allows shaded cell groups to be individually managed without affecting other groups, eliminating the need for bypass diodes that would otherwise be required to maintain current levels in series-connected strings.
4Productivity
If individual power converters are assigned to each PV panel, then the MPP tracking efficiency is improved under partial shading conditions, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple cell group inputs into a single shared power converter system. This approach achieves the efficiency benefits of individual cell group maximum power point tracking while significantly reducing the total number of power converters required compared to having one converter per panel, thereby lowering system cost while maintaining high tracking efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for efficiently controlling energy sources are disclosed. In one example, a system for processing and storing energy may include a plurality of cells that store energy and a plurality of power switches coupled to the cells. The system may also include an inductor coupled to the power switches and a controller, wherein the controller controls the power switches to transfer the energy to a load.