Embedded PV Module Switch With Open-Circuit Voltage Temperature Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar photovoltaic (PV) module control systems face challenges in safely and efficiently controlling power output, managing temperature variations, and preventing theft, with external components leading to increased costs and complexity, and real-time temperature monitoring being costly and impractical.
Innovation Solution
A remote-access module switch (RAMS) system is embedded within the module laminate, enabling remote-controlled power switching, real-time temperature monitoring, and anti-theft features with minimal impact on power generation, using a low-cost, self-powered electronic circuit that reduces insertion losses and requires no external power supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external electrical breaker switches or external micro-inverters are used for power control, then module power delivery can be disconnected, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the power switching function and temperature monitoring function into a single integrated circuit board that is embedded within the module laminate. This merging eliminates the need for separate external breaker switches and external monitoring devices, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable power control and temperature monitoring capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated circuit board performs multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a power switch to disconnect module power delivery, monitors temperature in real-time, and provides anti-theft functionality. This multi-functionality replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate external components, reducing overall system complexity.
2Measurement precision
If real-time temperature monitoring is implemented using external sensors, then temperature data can be obtained, but cost and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature sensing function is merged into the same integrated circuit board that is already embedded in the module laminate. This eliminates the need for separate external temperature sensors and their associated wiring, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining real-time temperature monitoring capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated circuit board monitors its own operating conditions including its own temperature, and uses this information to control power delivery. This self-service approach eliminates the need for separate external monitoring systems and reduces manufacturing complexity.
3Reliability
If external components are used for power control, then module power can be disconnected, but insertion losses increase and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The power switching components are integrated directly into the module laminate structure, minimizing the length of electrical connections and reducing resistive losses. The integrated circuit board is positioned to be in direct electrical contact with the module terminals, eliminating the need for long external wiring that would increase insertion losses.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If remote-access control is implemented, then theft prevention and safety improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated circuit board provides anti-theft functionality as part of its multi-functionality package, combining power control, temperature monitoring, and security features in a single device. This approach prevents theft without requiring separate external security systems, thereby maintaining low device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for calculating a real-time effective temperature of a solar photovoltaic module at any operating time during power generation period between a daily wake-up time and sleep time of said solar photovoltaic module is provided. The method is based on, in part, measuring the solar photovoltaic module open-circuit voltage at said daily wake-up time and measuring the solar photovoltaic module open-circuit voltage at said operating time.