PV Receiver Layout for Beam Wander and Current Mismatch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power beaming systems face challenges in achieving efficient power conversion and distribution in PV arrays due to non-uniform illumination and beam wander, leading to inefficiencies and reduced output power.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a power receiver with photovoltaic (PV) cells arranged in voltage groups, connected in parallel within each group and in series between groups, along with capacitors in parallel with individual PV cells, and optimized layouts using staggered patterns and Voronoi mesh analysis to minimize current mismatch and ensure even distribution of PV cells across the array.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If PV cells are arranged in a conventional grid pattern, then the array structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but current mismatch increases under non-uniform illumination and beam wander
Solution Approach 1:
The PV array is segmented into multiple voltage groups with PV cells distributed across the array rather than clustered in adjacent positions. This segmentation allows each group to sample different regions of the beam profile, reducing the impact of non-uniform illumination and beam wander on overall array performance.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the PV array are assigned to different voltage groups based on their local illumination conditions. The staggered pattern ensures that each voltage group experiences similar average illumination levels despite spatial distribution, optimizing local power contribution from each region.
2Reliability
If PV cells within a voltage group are connected in parallel to reduce voltage stress, then current handling capacity increases, but current mismatch between groups worsens power distribution efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The array is divided into multiple voltage groups connected in series, with each group containing PV cells connected in parallel. This segmentation balances voltage stress across groups while the staggered spatial distribution ensures each group receives comparable illumination, minimizing current mismatch.
Solution Approach 2:
The wiring configuration and staggered layout work together to create equipotential conditions across voltage groups by ensuring each group operates at similar voltage and current levels despite spatial separation, optimizing power distribution efficiency.
3Area of stationary object
If PV cells are closely spaced to maximize array density, then area utilization improves, but current mismatch increases due to localized illumination variations
Solution Approach 1:
Even though PV cells are closely spaced for high density, they are segmented into voltage groups with staggered spatial distribution. This ensures that closely spaced cells contributing to the same voltage group are separated by an offset, allowing each group to sample different beam regions and reducing current mismatch.
Solution Approach 2:
The offset pattern introduces a dimensional separation in the spatial arrangement of cells within voltage groups. By staggering cells along both horizontal and vertical axes, the design transforms a simple grid into a distributed pattern that samples the beam profile more uniformly.
4Reliability
If capacitors are added in parallel with PV cells to stabilize voltage, then output consistency improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Capacitors are pre-connected in parallel with PV cells before the power beam is applied. This preliminary configuration ensures that voltage stabilization is already in place when illumination begins, allowing the system to immediately benefit from reduced voltage fluctuations and improved output consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The capacitors act as energy buffers that cushion against voltage fluctuations and current mismatches before they affect the overall array output. By having these energy storage elements in place beforehand, the system is protected against the adverse effects of non-uniform illumination and beam wander.
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 configuration enhances power conversion efficiency by reducing current mismatch and maintaining consistent output currents, even under varying beam conditions, thereby optimizing power production.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of photovoltaic (PV) cells disposed on a support surface
Data Source
AI summary
A free-space power receiver includes layouts of photovoltaic cells selected to optimize power extraction even when a power beam moves or changes profile on the receiver. The receiver may also include a circuit board, which may include suitable wiring for connecting the photovoltaic cells to one another and to a load for extraction of power. The receiver may include capacitors wired in parallel with the photovoltaic cells.