PV Module Mapping Using GPS and ID Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of photovoltaic (PV) installations face challenges in efficiently locating specific malfunctioning modules due to the lack of accurate maps, which leads to time-consuming troubleshooting and potential errors in manual mapping processes.
Innovation Solution
A method for generating automatic or semi-automatic physical maps of PV installations using GPS coordinates, scanning devices, and matching algorithms to associate module IDs with their locations, enabling rapid identification and resolution of issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual mapping is performed by maintenance workers walking through the installation and copying ID numbers, then a map of PV module locations can be obtained, but the process is time-consuming and prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical mapping processes with automated optical and electronic systems. A scanning device with camera captures images of PV modules and automatically reads ID numbers, eliminating the need for manual copying of information. The system uses image processing algorithms to extract and recognize module identifiers, substituting human visual inspection and manual data entry with automated computer vision technology.
Solution Approach 2:
The PV modules themselves provide their identification information through machine-readable codes (barcodes, QR codes, or printed ID numbers) that can be automatically scanned and read. The modules essentially serve themselves by displaying their unique identifiers in a format that the scanning device can automatically capture and process, eliminating the need for external manual data collection.
2Reliability
If manual mapping is performed to locate specific malfunctioning modules, then location information can be obtained, but human error causes inaccurate information to be recorded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual data collection and recording processes with automated optical scanning and digital image processing. The scanning device captures images of PV modules and uses computer vision algorithms to automatically read and record ID numbers, eliminating human error in data transcription. The system digitally stores and processes module identification information without manual intervention, ensuring accurate and reliable data recording.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides visual feedback by displaying captured module images and recognized ID numbers on a screen, allowing operators to verify the accuracy of automatic recognition. The feedback mechanism enables real-time validation of the mapping data, ensuring that the automatically captured information is accurate before final recording.
3Ease of operation
If operators physically locate malfunctioning modules without accurate maps, then troubleshooting can be performed, but the process becomes time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy or replica of the physical PV installation layout through automated scanning and mapping. The system generates a virtual map that mirrors the actual physical arrangement of modules, allowing operators to view module locations and identification information on a screen without physically navigating to each module. This digital copy enables rapid location of malfunctioning modules through visual inspection of the mapped data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional physical location searching to three-dimensional virtual space navigation. By creating a digital map that includes spatial coordinates and module positions, the system allows operators to locate malfunctioning modules in a virtual representation of the installation, reducing the need for physical traversal and enabling faster troubleshooting through digital interface interaction.
Data Source
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AI summary
Various implementations described herein are directed to a method for recording, by a device, identifying information of a plurality of components of a photovoltaic (PV) installation. The method may record, by the device, at least one of timestamps or locations corresponding to each component of the plurality of components. The method may generate, based on the identifying information, timestamps, and locations, a map of the PV installation.