Centralized Inverter Control for PV Array Voltage Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solar power plants face inefficiencies and high costs due to the need for multiple local DC/DC converters and complex power conversion systems, especially in larger systems, which affect energy production and transmission efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a plurality of DC/DC converters and a DC/AC inverter, with a control unit that adjusts voltage levels based on performance models and theoretical efficiencies to optimize power conversion, including a second mode for maximum power point tracking and voltage adjustment to maintain efficient power transmission, even under low power conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple local DC/DC converters are used for each PV panel to maximize efficiency, then energy conversion efficiency is improved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple DC/DC converter functions into a single centralized DC/AC inverter. Instead of having separate DC/DC converters for each PV panel, the system uses one inverter that handles power conversion for all panels, significantly reducing the number of devices while maintaining efficient power conversion through coordinated control of switching elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The DC/AC inverter is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as a DC/DC converter for power conversion, an MPPT device for maximum power point tracking, and a control unit for coordinating switching elements. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated devices for each function.
2Productivity
If a dedicated local converter is provided for each PV panel to enable MPPT, then energy efficiency during shading conditions is improved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines MPPT functionality with the centralized inverter control system. The inverter's control unit performs MPPT by coordinating the switching elements based on power measurements from all PV panels, eliminating the need for separate dedicated converters at each panel while maintaining efficient power extraction even during shading conditions.
3Productivity
If voltage levels are dynamically adjusted based on performance models and feedback, then power conversion efficiency is improved, but control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by measuring the actual output power of the inverter and using this information to adjust the switching coordination and voltage levels. The control unit continuously monitors performance and adjusts operating parameters to maintain optimal efficiency while managing control complexity through systematic feedback loops.
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 enhances energy production efficiency and reduces costs by adapting to varying conditions, maintaining high efficiency in power conversion and transmission, even during low power production or component failures, by dynamically adjusting voltage levels and employing maximum power point tracking.
Implementation Method 1
a control unit arranged to control the conversion of power from the PV modules to the power transmission system by adjusting the switching coordination of the DC/DC converters
Data Source
AI summary
A solar power plant including a power conversion system and a method of controlling the power conversion system. Implemented in a DC/AC inverter, the plant includes photovoltaic modules (PV modules) arranged in arrays connected to a respective DC/DC converters. A power collecting grid interfaces between the DC/DC converters and the DC/AC inverter. The method includes monitoring the performance of each PV array by adjusting the voltage level of each interface between a PV array and the corresponding DC/DC converter, and includes monitoring the output power of each DC/DC converter as a feedback for the regulating.