Photovoltaic Module Converter With Dynamic Switching Frequency Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Photovoltaic modules face challenges in providing stable power output, especially when DC power from solar cell modules is low, leading to inefficient power conversion and limited output range.

Innovation Solution

A photovoltaic module design incorporating a converter with a full-bridge switching part and a half-bridge switching part, controlled by a controller that adjusts switching frequency and phase difference to optimize power conversion, including a transformer and inverter to convert DC power to AC power, ensuring stable output even at low input levels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a conventional converter and inverter are used to convert DC power from solar cells, then power conversion is achieved, but stable power output cannot be provided when DC power input is low

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower output stabilityVSAvoidpower conversion efficiency at low input

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic switching frequency adjustment where the controller changes the switching frequency of the full-bridge and half-bridge switching parts based on the input DC power level. When DC power input is low, the switching frequency is adjusted to maintain stable output power, resolving the contradiction between output stability and conversion efficiency at low input levels

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the switching frequency parameter dynamically according to the input power level. By adjusting this critical parameter, the system maintains optimal performance across varying DC power input conditions, particularly improving stability when input power is low

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If switching frequency is increased to improve power conversion speed, then conversion efficiency improves, but switching losses increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower conversion speedVSAvoidswitching losses

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent dynamically adjusts switching frequency based on operational conditions rather than using a fixed high frequency. This dynamic approach allows the system to achieve necessary conversion speed while minimizing switching losses by using the lowest effective frequency at each moment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The switching frequency parameter is changed dynamically according to load conditions and input power levels, optimizing the balance between conversion speed and switching losses by avoiding unnecessarily high frequencies

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If a full-bridge switching part and half-bridge switching part are used together, then power conversion flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower conversion flexibilityVSAvoidconverter structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the power conversion function into two distinct parts: a full-bridge switching part for high-power conversion and a half-bridge switching part for fine-adjustment and stability. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized independently while working together to provide flexible power conversion

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the full-bridge and half-bridge switching parts into a single integrated converter system with unified control. This combination leverages the advantages of both configurations while managing complexity through integrated design and control

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

The solution enables stable power output without limiting the range of output power, reducing switching losses and improving power factor, thereby enhancing the efficiency of power conversion from solar cell modules to AC power.

Implementation Method 1

solar cells, which directly convert solar energy into electrical energy by using a semiconductor device

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Implementation Method 2

a transformer having an input side connected to an output terminal of the full-bridge switching part

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11133776B2Photovoltaic module

Publication Date: 2021.09.28 TRINA SOLAR CO LTD

AI summary

Discussed is a photovoltaic module including: a solar cell module including a plurality of solar cells; a converter to convert a level of first direct current (DC) power input from the solar cell module, and to output second DC power; an inverter to convert the second DC power supplied from the converter into alternating current (AC) power; and a controller to control the converter and the inverter, wherein the converter comprises: a full-bridge switching part to switch the first DC power; a transformer having an input side connected to an output terminal of the full-bridge switching part; and a half-bridge switching part connected to an output side of the transformer, wherein the controller changes a switching frequency of the full-bridge switching part and the half-bridge switching part in a first section of a waveform.