Segmented Solar Panel Control for Partial Shading

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional solar panels are unable to achieve true maximization of power output as they lack individual segment control, relying on flying diodes to shut off entire panels or segments, which affects overall performance.

Innovation Solution

A system and method for selectively controlling solar panels by segmenting them into parallel or series connections, with each segment equipped with a control and switch component (CSC) that can adjust output independently, cut off segments without affecting others, and utilize control logic to optimize power based on detected conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional panel-level control with flying diodes is used to shut off the entire panel when output is compromised, then the reliability of the solar panel system is improved, but the power output is reduced because the entire panel must be shut down even when only a small portion is compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem reliabilityVSAvoidpower output

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The solar panel is divided into multiple independently controllable segments, each with its own control element. This allows only the affected segment to be shut off while other segments continue to generate power, resolving the contradiction between reliability and power output by enabling localized control rather than panel-wide shutdown.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each segment is equipped with its own control element that can independently monitor and control the output of that specific segment. This local control capability ensures that reliability is maintained by shutting off only the compromised segment, while power output is maximized by keeping healthy segments operational.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Device complexity

If conventional panel-level control is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability is worsened because the system cannot individually control segments to optimize performance under varying conditions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecontrol system complexityVSAvoidsegment control adaptability

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is segmented into multiple independent control elements, each managing a specific segment. This modular approach increases adaptability by allowing individual segment control while keeping the overall system complexity manageable through standardized control units that can be replicated across segments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each control element is designed to be universal and can be applied to any segment, providing multi-functionality. This standardized control unit can monitor, regulate, and shut off any segment as needed, increasing system adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity through reuse of the same control architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Power

If segments are controlled independently with individual control elements, then the power output is maximized by optimizing each segment's contribution, but the device complexity increases due to multiple control elements and monitoring systems

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower outputVSAvoidcontrol element quantity

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The solar panel is divided into multiple independently controllable segments, each with its own control element. This allows only the affected segment to be shut off while other segments continue to generate power, resolving the contradiction between reliability and power output by enabling localized control rather than panel-wide shutdown.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each segment is equipped with its own control element that can independently monitor and control the output of that specific segment. This local control capability ensures that reliability is maintained by shutting off only the compromised segment, while power output is maximized by keeping healthy segments operational.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

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 allows for enhanced power output by enabling independent control of each segment, optimizing performance even when some segments are compromised, thereby maximizing the overall solar panel output.

Implementation Method 1

A solar panel includes a plurality of segments that are electrically interconnected

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Data Source

PatentUS8791598B2System and method for selectively controlling a solar panel in segments

Publication Date: 2014.07.29 NAVSEMI ENERGY

AI summary

A control system is provided for a solar panel. The control system includes a plurality of control elements that are individually connected to a corresponding segment of the solar panel. The control system also includes control logic that is structured to individually signal each of the plurality of control elements in order to cause the signaled control element to either switch-off or alter performance output to maximize the over all output of a solar panel or solar power generating system utilizing such panels.