Modular Solar Inverter with Pass-Through Channels for Capacity Matching
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing string and central inverters for solar photovoltaic systems face challenges in matching DC and AC power efficiently, leading to excess capacity and high hardware costs, while microinverters increase equipment and maintenance complexity.
Innovation Solution
A modular PV system with separate, stackable inverter chassis and pass-through channels allows for field-configurable power routing, enabling efficient conversion of DC to AC power and reducing unnecessary inverter capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If string inverters are used to convert DC power to AC power, then power conversion capability is improved, but inverter capacity matching precision deteriorates leading to excess capacity and high hardware costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single large inverter into multiple smaller modular inverter units that can be connected in parallel. Each module has its own DC-to-AC conversion capability, allowing the system to be scaled precisely to match the PV array size. This segmentation enables better capacity matching while maintaining power conversion functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular inverter system allows dynamic configuration where modules can be added or removed based on the PV array size and power requirements. The system adapts to different scaling scenarios (adding PV modules or removing them) by adjusting the number of inverter modules, thereby maintaining optimal capacity matching throughout the system lifecycle.
2Manufacturing precision
If micro inverters are used to convert DC power to AC power at module level, then inverter capacity matching precision is improved, but device complexity and maintenance complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the advantages of string inverters and micro inverters by creating modular inverter units that can be connected in parallel. Each module handles a portion of the PV array, providing micro inverter-level capacity matching precision, while the modular architecture reduces overall system complexity compared to distributed micro inverters by using standardized interconnected units.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular inverter modules are used, then adaptability to different PV array sizes is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple modules
Solution Approach 1:
The modular inverter design uses standardized modules with universal connection interfaces and common control architecture. Each module can function independently or in combination with others, providing adaptability to different PV array sizes while maintaining relatively simple system management through standardized protocols and unified control.
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 modular inverter system optimizes inverter capacity to match PV module sizing, reducing hardware costs and maintenance complexity while ensuring efficient power conversion and flexibility in system configuration.
Implementation Method 1
the first inverter is configured to convert DC power generated from the first DC power source into AC power that is outputted into the AC bus
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments herein disclose an apparatus for a modular PV system. The apparatus may include a wire box coupled to an alternating current (AC) system through an AC bus and to both a first direct current (DC) power source and a second DC power source through a conduit; a first inverter having a first chassis attached to the wire box and being coupled to the first DC power source through the wire box, the first inverter comprising a first pass-through channel and a second pass-through channel; and a second inverter having a second chassis attached to the first chassis and being coupled to the second DC power source through the first pass-through channel and the wire box, wherein the first chassis and the second chassis are separate chassis.