MPPT PV Input Interface for Multi-Source Grid Connection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Connecting different renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydro power to the electric grid is challenging due to their varying electrical characteristics and strict certification requirements, making it costly and complex to integrate them using standard equipment.

Innovation Solution

A device using a photovoltaic inverter with MPPT input, comprising an MPPT controller, DC photovoltaic panel simulator, and control unit, which modifies energy characteristics to integrate with existing infrastructure, allowing easy connection and optimization of energy sources.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separate AC GRID output devices are used for each renewable energy source, then each source can be connected independently, but the combination becomes more expensive and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveAbility to connect different renewable energy sourcesVSAvoidNumber of separate connection devices required
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single inverter capable of accepting multiple types of renewable energy sources (photovoltaic panels, wind turbines, hydroelectric generators, hydrogen fuel cells) through a unified interface. The inverter's control unit is configured to recognize and process different energy source types, eliminating the need for separate specialized connection devices for each source type.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges multiple separate connection functions into a single integrated inverter system. Instead of using separate AC GRID output devices for each renewable energy source, the system combines all connection, conversion, and grid synchronization functions into one unified device that handles multiple energy sources simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If certified specialized inverters are used for each renewable energy source, then connection reliability is ensured, but the cost increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveConnection certification and approvalVSAvoidConnection cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing a single inverter capable of accepting multiple types of renewable energy sources (photovoltaic panels, wind turbines, hydroelectric generators, hydrogen fuel cells) through a unified interface. The inverter's control unit is configured to recognize and process different energy source types, eliminating the need for separate specialized connection devices for each source type.

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

3Device complexity

If standard equipment is used to connect renewable energy sources with different electrical characteristics, then equipment simplicity is maintained, but connection difficulty increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveEquipment simplicityVSAvoidConnection ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by implementing a control unit that dynamically adapts its operation based on the type of renewable energy source connected. The control unit can switch between different operating modes and parameters to optimize performance for each specific energy source type, making the system flexible and easy to connect without requiring complex specialized equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

Facilitates the integration of diverse renewable energy sources into existing solar systems, reducing costs and simplifying the connection process without additional certifications, while ensuring stability and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

MPPT controller, which is arranged to optimize the current and voltage at its input to achieve the maximum output from the connected renewable energy source

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMaximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT):

Implementation Method 2

DC photovoltaic panel simulator, which has the output to connect to the photovoltaic inverter with at least one MPPT input

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect simulation: Photovoltaic Effect

Data Source

PatentEP4654419A1Device for connecting the renewable energy source to the distribution electric grid by means of the photovoltaic inverter with MPPT input, power system and connection method
Publication Date: 2025.11.26 EV- GP AS
  • EP4654419A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4654419A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4654419A1 patent drawing

AI summary

There is described the device for connecting the renewable energy source to the distribution electric grid by means of the photovoltaic inverter with at least one MPPT input, comprising an MPPT controller (1) having the DC input (15) for connecting the at least one renewable energy source (12), wherein the output of the above mentioned MPPT controller (1) is connected to the DC simulator (3) of the photovoltaic panel having the output (6) for connecting to the photovoltaic inverter with at least one MPPT input, wherein this device (10) further comprises the control unit (4) connected on both sides to the MPPT controller (1) and the DC photovoltaic panel simulator (3), and wherein this control unit (4) has the input (7) for controlling the above mentioned device (10), and wherein the MPPT controller (1) is arranged to optimize the current and the voltage at its input to achieve the maximum power output from the connected renewable energy source (12). There is also described the method of connecting of the renewable energy source to the distribution electric grid.