PV Inverter Emergency Switching via PLC Over AC Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional photovoltaic systems require dedicated communication cables for switching between normal and emergency modes, which is costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A photovoltaic system that utilizes powerline communication (PLC) over existing AC lines to transmit switching state information between the inverter and the power supply grid, eliminating the need for additional communication cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated communication cables are installed for switching between normal and emergency modes, then communication reliability is improved, but device complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power line is made to serve dual functions: power transmission and communication. The emergency unit and inverter unit exchange switching state information through the existing power line infrastructure using power line communication technology, eliminating the need for separate dedicated communication cables while maintaining reliable communication during mode transitions.
2Reliability
If dedicated communication cables are installed, then communication reliability is improved, but installation effort and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The existing power line infrastructure is utilized to provide communication services without requiring additional installation. The system leverages already-installed power lines to transmit switching state information, making the communication infrastructure self-sufficient and eliminating the need for separate communication cable installation efforts.
3Loss of information
If additional communication infrastructure is added, then communication capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The communication function is merged with the existing power transmission infrastructure. Instead of adding separate communication cables, the system combines power delivery and data exchange functions into a single infrastructure - the power line - thereby maintaining full information transmission capability while reducing overall system complexity.
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 simplifies setup, reduces cabling efforts, and ensures robust communication during power failures, enabling seamless switching between operating modes without additional infrastructure.
Implementation Method 1
which is adapted to notify a current switching state of the emergency switch by means of power line communication PLC via the AC lines to a controller of the inverter unit
Implementation Method 2
A photovoltaic system comprises photovoltaic modules which generate direct current (DC) power from solar radiation due to photovoltaic effect
Data Source
AI summary
A photovoltaic system (1) includes an inverter unit (2) adapted to convert an electrical direct current (DC) power generated by photovoltaic modules (3) into an electrical alternating current (AC) power supplied via AC lines (5), and a smart meter (8) connected to a power supply grid PSG (11). The system further include an emergency unit (6) having a controller (6A) adapted: a) to open an emergency switch (7) to automatically disconnect the photovoltaic system (1) from the power supply grid PSG (11) if a power supply grid failure is detected; and b) to notify a current switching state of the emergency switch (7) by means of power line communication (PLC) communication via the AC lines (5) to a controller of the inverter unit (2).