PV Stop Potential Voltage Hazard Control System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
First responders and technicians face electrocution and other hazards when dealing with solar PV modules and other charged equipment during emergencies, as these systems remain energized even in the presence of sunlight or other light sources, posing risks during firefighting and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a control panel and Wireless Control Personality Module that can remotely or manually shut off the power supply to solar PV systems and other charged equipment, using a combination of transceivers, relays, and microcontrollers to ensure safety by rendering the systems uncharged, with visible and audible indicators for status feedback and a lockout mechanism for safe re-energization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If solar PV systems remain energized during emergencies, then power supply continuity is maintained, but electrocution hazard to first responders and technicians increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary shutdown action by detecting emergency conditions (fire, earthquake, flood, etc.) and automatically activating the disconnect mechanism before first responders or technicians arrive at the scene, thereby eliminating electrocution hazard in advance while maintaining power supply reliability through controlled disconnection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary emergency shutdown system that mediates between the solar PV system and the external environment during emergencies. This intermediary system includes sensors, control circuits, and disconnect mechanisms that safely isolate the PV system from potential hazards without requiring direct human intervention in dangerous conditions
2Device complexity
If manual shutdown procedures are used for solar PV systems, then system complexity is minimized, but response time during emergencies increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs self-service automation where emergency sensors detect hazardous conditions and automatically trigger the shutdown sequence without human intervention. The control circuit autonomously activates disconnect mechanisms, ensuring rapid response during emergencies while keeping the overall system design relatively simple through automated self-activation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical shutdown procedures with an automated electronic control system. Instead of requiring personnel to physically locate and operate disconnect switches during dangerous conditions, the system uses electronic sensors, control circuits, and automated relay mechanisms to perform the shutdown function, dramatically reducing response time
3Ease of operation
If disconnect mechanisms are placed in accessible locations, then ease of operation is improved, but exposure to hazardous conditions during installation and maintenance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary automated control mechanism that allows disconnect operation from a safe distance. The control circuit enables remote activation of disconnect switches through wired or wireless interfaces, allowing operators to initiate shutdown procedures without physically approaching hazardous areas where solar panels or electrical components may be exposed to fire, water, or structural damage
Data Source
AI summary
A system to interrupt the line or supply side power or charged system of any building, appliance, process, and the like, so as to render the system without charge or current output outside of the junction box/enclosure or equipment load supply connection so that emergency first responders or solar/any technician, authorized personnel in any field, system maintenance crew may avoid electrocution, chemical or machine/appliance hazard in the presence of fire, explosion, structural failure/compromise, moisture, flammables, caustics, hazmat, water stream, mist, fogging, physical damage or servicing of the system. The system can be engaged for any anticipated disaster such as fire, hurricane, tornado, earthquake, flood, and the like.