Single Chip Micro-Inverter Processor Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional solar micro-inverter systems require multiple processors for control, monitoring, and communication functions, leading to increased costs and complexity due to redundant processing units.
Innovation Solution
A single processor is used to perform control, monitoring, and communication functions, eliminating the need for separate processors and modems, and integrating analog control and communication capabilities within a single chip micro-inverter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple processors are used for control, monitoring, and communication functions, then functional reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple previously separate processing functions (analog control, digital signal processing, communication modulation/demodulation, and monitoring) into a single integrated microcontroller unit. This single processor implements all control algorithms, executes communication protocols, and performs monitoring tasks that previously required separate dedicated processors, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining functional reliability through software-based function separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The microcontroller is designed as a universal processing unit that can perform multiple functions: it executes maximum power point tracking algorithms, implements arc detection, manages power conversion control, and handles both powerline communication and wireless communication protocols. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for specialized processors for each function, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining the reliability of each individual function.
2Reliability
If multiple processors are used for control, monitoring, and communication functions, then functional reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple discrete processor components into a single microcontroller chip, directly reducing the bill of materials cost. By integrating analog control, digital processing, and communication functions into one component, the patent eliminates the need to purchase, stock, and assemble multiple separate processors, thereby reducing manufacturing cost while maintaining all necessary functional capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal microcontroller performs all control, monitoring, and communication functions that previously required multiple specialized processors. This multi-functionality allows manufacturers to use a single standardized component across different product variants, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost through economies of scale, while still providing reliable execution of all required functions through software configuration.
3Reliability
If separate modems and controllers are used, then communication reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates modem functionality directly into the microcontroller, combining communication modulation/demodulation capabilities with control processing in a single unit. The microcontroller executes communication protocols and handles data transmission/reception while simultaneously performing power conversion control and monitoring, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining communication reliability through dedicated software routines.
Solution Approach 2:
The microcontroller serves as a universal processing unit that handles both control functions and communication functions. It implements powerline communication and wireless communication protocols while simultaneously managing maximum power point tracking, arc detection, and power conversion control, thereby eliminating the need for separate dedicated modem hardware while maintaining communication reliability.
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 solution simplifies the design, reduces costs, and enhances maintenance ease while enabling direct communication with the grid, resulting in a more efficient and cost-effective solar micro-inverter system.
Implementation Method 1
A solar micro-inverter is a system that converts direct current (DC) from a single solar panel to an alternating current (AC)
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an improved grid connected solar micro-inverter. The solar micro-inverter is provided with a single processor that performs both the functions for the control of the micro-inverter and runs the application program associated with it and implements a communication modem for connectivity to the grid or to the Internet cloud. The solar micro-inverter therefore needs only a single processor to perform both the micro-inverter control and modem communication functions, resulting in cheaper and smaller system implementation.