MPPT Suboptimal Tracking Correction via Master Management Unit

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Photovoltaic systems often operate sub-optimally due to maximum power point tracking (MPPT) devices failing to track the maximum power point effectively, leading to reduced energy production and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that includes a master management unit (MMU) receiving power output information from MPPT devices and DC to DC converting devices to detect sub-optimal operation and transmit instructions to adjust control operations, ensuring optimal tracking and performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If MPPT devices are used to track maximum power point, then energy production should be maximized, but suboptimal operation occurs leading to reduced efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy productionVSAvoidtracking effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements a feedback mechanism where the master management unit continuously receives power output information from MPPT devices and DC to DC converting devices, monitors for suboptimal operation conditions, and transmits correction instructions back to the devices. This closed-loop feedback ensures the system maintains optimal tracking effectiveness and energy production.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service by allowing the master management unit to autonomously detect suboptimal operation and automatically transmit correction instructions to the MPPT devices and converting devices without external intervention, making the system self-correcting and maintaining optimal performance independently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If suboptimal operation is detected and correction instructions are transmitted, then performance is enhanced, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem performanceVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The master management unit serves multiple functions: it manages DC to DC converting devices, receives power output information from MPPT devices, detects suboptimal operation conditions, and transmits correction instructions. This multi-functionality consolidates control capabilities into a single unit, enhancing performance without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8922061B2Systems and methods for detecting and correcting a suboptimal operation of one or more inverters in a multi-inverter system
Publication Date: 2014.12.30 TIGO ENERGY INNOVATIONS LLC
  • US8922061B2 patent drawing
  • US8922061B2 patent drawing
  • US8922061B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a system and method for detecting and correcting a suboptimal operation of one or more maximum power point tracking (MPPT) devices in a solar photovoltaic power generation (SPVPG) system. MPPT devices may become stuck in a local maximum in a power curve and fail to reach an optimal maximum power point. Described herein are methods and systems for detecting sub-optimal performance of an MPPT device and managing components within the SPVPG system to cause the MPPT device to track a different maximum power point.