Multi-Power Source FET Switching for Solar-Battery Seamless Transition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dual power systems for solar trackers face inefficiencies when switching between solar power and battery power, particularly during low solar panel energy production or when the system returns to its morning start position, leading to potential disruptions in motor operation.
Innovation Solution
A multi-power source system with a solar panel array, a battery, and a controller using field effect transistors (FETs) to manage power flow, allowing seamless switching between sources while minimizing battery charge/discharge cycling and maintaining load operation, utilizing inductors and capacitors to control current direction and voltage thresholds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a diode is used to prevent battery power from driving the solar panel, then battery reverse charging is prevented, but the system cannot efficiently manage bidirectional power flow between sources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces FETs as intermediary switching devices between the solar panel and battery, replacing the simple diode. These FETs act as controllable mediators that can selectively enable or disable power flow in either direction, allowing the system to prevent reverse charging while also enabling efficient bidirectional power management when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static diode-based protection mechanism to a dynamic FET-controlled switching system. The FETs can be dynamically adjusted based on system conditions (solar availability, battery charge level, load requirements) to optimize power flow direction and prevent harmful reverse charging only when necessary.
2Device complexity
If simple switching between solar and battery power is implemented, then system complexity is reduced, but seamless transitions and optimization of energy use cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a controller that continuously monitors system parameters (solar panel output, battery charge level, load requirements) and uses this feedback to intelligently control the FET switching. This feedback mechanism enables seamless transitions between power sources and optimizes energy utilization without requiring overly complex hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller serves multiple functions: it manages FET switching for seamless power transitions, optimizes energy flow distribution, prevents battery reverse charging, and adapts to varying operational conditions. This multi-functionality achieves high productivity without proportionally increasing device complexity.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the solar panel is the sole power source during daytime, then battery charge/discharge cycling is minimized, but the system cannot maintain operation when solar energy production is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system proactively charges the battery during periods of sufficient solar production before solar energy becomes insufficient. The controller monitors solar output trends and pre-charges the battery, ensuring seamless transition to battery power when needed, thus maintaining continuous operation while minimizing unnecessary charge/discharge cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the balance between solar panel and battery power contribution based on real-time conditions. When solar production is sufficient, the system uses solar power primarily. When solar production drops below thresholds, the controller dynamically transitions to battery supplementation, ensuring reliable operation while optimizing battery usage patterns.
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
Enables efficient and seamless switching between solar and battery power sources, optimizing energy use and extending battery life by minimizing charge/discharge cycles and maintaining consistent load operation, even during low solar panel energy production.
Implementation Method 1
a diode preventing power from the second power source to drive the first power source
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of field effect transistor (FETs) arranged in series with one or more of the first power source, the second power source, and the load, wherein controller can switch the plurality of FETs to enable the first power source to drive the load or the second power source to drive the load
Implementation Method 3
an inductor in series with the second power source, wherein the FETs are configured to charge the second power source by the first power source by controlling the direction of a current across the inductor
Implementation Method 4
utilizing inductors and capacitors to control current direction and voltage thresholds
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-power source system including a first power source, a second power source in a parallel with the first power source, and a diode preventing power from the second power source to drive the first power source, but permitting the first power source to charge the second power source. The system also includes a controller operably coupled to both the first and second power sources, and a plurality of field effect transistor (FETs) arranged in series with one or more of the first power source, the second power source, and the load, wherein controller can switch the plurality of FETs to enable the first power source to drive the load or the second power source to drive the load.