Power-Line Signal Synchronization for PV Crosstalk Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power line communication systems face interference issues due to crosstalk between closely disposed power lines, leading to errors and unintended behaviors in photovoltaic panel operations, particularly in large installations with multiple strings or groups of panels.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a transmitter system that synchronizes the transmission of signals over power lines by using an oscillator to generate clock signals and a control circuit to adjust timing, either by synchronizing the phase of signals or transmitting them in separate time windows, thereby reducing interference between adjacent power lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple power lines are disposed closely together to connect multiple strings of photovoltaic panels, then the system can support larger installations and more panels, but crosstalk between the power lines causes signal interference and decoding errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic time-division multiplexing where transmitters on different power lines transmit signals in alternating time slots rather than simultaneously. Each transmitter is synchronized to transmit only during its assigned time window, converting the continuous interference problem into a periodic, controlled transmission pattern that eliminates crosstalk while maintaining system scalability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary synchronization actions where a master transmitter establishes a reference timing signal that all slave transmitters use to coordinate their transmission schedules. This preliminary timing alignment ensures that each transmitter knows exactly when to transmit and when to remain silent, preventing crosstalk before it occurs while allowing multiple power lines to operate in close proximity
2Productivity
If signals are transmitted simultaneously on multiple closely disposed power lines, then communication efficiency is maintained, but signal interference occurs leading to decoding errors and unintended panel shutdowns
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic time-division multiplexing where transmitters alternate transmission in synchronized time slots. This periodic structure maintains high communication efficiency by ensuring every transmitter gets regular transmission opportunities while eliminating simultaneous interference, thereby improving both efficiency and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous useful action by implementing a round-robin transmission schedule where each transmitter continuously transmits in its assigned time slot without idle gaps. This ensures that communication remains efficient and uninterrupted while the time-division approach prevents interference, maintaining both productivity and reliability
3Object-affected harmful factors
If time-division multiplexing is implemented to reduce crosstalk, then signal interference is minimized, but transmission timing coordination between multiple transmitters becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a master transmitter as an intermediary that generates and distributes the master timing signal to all slave transmitters. This intermediary approach simplifies the overall system by centralizing the timing coordination function, reducing the complexity each individual transmitter must manage while effectively implementing time-division multiplexing to eliminate crosstalk
4Object-affected harmful factors
If phase synchronization is used to coordinate transmissions, then crosstalk interference is reduced, but the system requires precise timing control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The master transmitter acts as an intermediary that provides a centralized reference timing signal, eliminating the need for each transmitter to independently achieve and maintain precise phase synchronization. This intermediary approach reduces the timing control precision requirements for individual transmitters while still achieving effective crosstalk reduction through coordinated transmission
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
This approach effectively minimizes crosstalk and ensures reliable signal transmission, preventing errors and unintended shutdowns of photovoltaic panels, thereby enhancing the scalability and reliability of Rapid Shutdown Systems for photovoltaic panel arrays.
Implementation Method 1
an oscillator to generate a clock signal
Implementation Method 2
by synchronizing phase of the first and second signals or by transmitting the first and the second signals in separate time windows
Implementation Method 3
changes in the magnetic field caused by a signal transmitted on one power line induces a corresponding signal on another closely disposed power line
Data Source
AI summary
A transmitter having: an oscillator to generate a clock signal and synthesize frequencies for modulating a message to generate first signals to a first direct current power line, and a control circuit to adjust timing of the first signals in synchronization with second signals transmitted in a second direct current power line disposed in a vicinity of the first direct current power line, by synchronizing phase of the first and second signals or by transmitting the first and the second signals in separate time windows.