Photovoltaic Module Sourced Control Power for Contactors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power distribution systems face challenges in efficiently managing multiple conductors and utilizing electrically controlled switches like contactors without the need for an additional power source, while ensuring safety and reducing complexity and cost.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that captures multiple conductors as a single unit for reliable connection, relocates output connection points for easier handling, and sources control power from a photovoltaic module to eliminate the need for additional power sources, using a crimp ring and lug configuration for physical and electrical integration, and an indicator light for fail-safe operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple conductors are connected to a single connection point, then the number of connection points is reduced and reliability is improved, but the conductors are more likely to pull out individually compared to a single large conductor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple individual conductors into a single bundled assembly that is treated as one unit. The crimp ring encapsulates all conductors together, creating a unified connection structure where the conductors are mechanically bound and cannot pull out individually, thus maintaining connection reliability while preserving conductor retention strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested structure where multiple conductors are inserted into a crimp ring. The conductors are nested within the ring's interior space, and the ring's crimping action encapsulates them all, creating a hierarchical arrangement where individual conductors are contained within a larger protective structure, preventing individual pull-out.
2Reliability
If manual disconnects are used to provide safety disconnecting means, then safety is ensured, but the equipment size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the photovoltaic system to power its own control circuitry and safety devices (such as contactors) by tapping power from the PV string itself. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external control power sources or large manual disconnects, reducing equipment size and cost while maintaining safety functions through electrically controlled switching.
3Device complexity
If control power is sourced from a single photovoltaic module within a series string, then voltage reduction circuitry is minimized and cost is reduced, but the string voltage is very high requiring careful power sourcing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts control power directly from a single photovoltaic module within the series string by tapping into that module's output terminals. This extraction approach pulls the necessary control power from one specific module, avoiding the need to step down the entire high-voltage string output, thereby minimizing voltage reduction circuitry while accounting for the high potential voltage at the string level.
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 solution reduces connection points, decreases costs, and enhances reliability by allowing multiple conductors to behave as one, while providing a cost-effective and convenient means to power contactors directly from photovoltaic modules, minimizing the need for voltage reduction circuitry and ensuring safe operation.
Implementation Method 1
sourcing control power from a photovoltaic module to eliminate the need for additional power sources
Data Source
AI summary
Power control using photovoltaic module sourced power.