Skyline Prediction for Cyber-Physical PV Array Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Utility-scale photovoltaic (PV) arrays face challenges in detecting and localizing faults, managing shading effects, and stabilizing power output due to weather unpredictability, which complicates integration with main power grids.
Innovation Solution
A cyber-physical system utilizing sensors, computer vision, and distributed algorithms for real-time analytics and fault detection, combined with smart monitoring devices that reconfigure solar panel connections and predict cloud movement to optimize power output and reduce transients.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If utility-scale photovoltaic arrays are deployed in remote areas to increase power generation capacity, then power output increases, but fault detection and localization becomes difficult and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the large-scale PV array into smaller monitoring zones with distributed sensors. Each sensor monitors specific parameters (voltage, current, temperature, irradiance) of individual panels or groups of panels, enabling localized fault detection without requiring physical access to remote areas. This segmentation allows remote monitoring of utility-scale arrays while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces wireless communication modules and data transmission systems as intermediaries between the remote PV panels and the monitoring center. These intermediaries transmit sensor data remotely, eliminating the need for physical presence at remote locations for fault detection, thus resolving the contradiction between scale and detectability.
2Power
If solar array installations are expanded to increase energy generation, then power output increases, but power output fluctuations due to weather unpredictability worsen grid integration stability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements real-time weather monitoring and prediction systems that forecast shading conditions, cloud movement, and irradiance changes before they affect power output. By detecting skyline changes and predicting weather patterns in advance, the system can pre-adjust PV array configurations or issue warnings to grid operators, stabilizing power output despite weather variability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a closed-loop feedback system where sensor data from PV panels (voltage, current, temperature, irradiance) is continuously monitored and fed back to control systems. This feedback enables real-time adjustment of panel connections and operational parameters to compensate for weather-induced fluctuations, maintaining stable power output integration with the grid.
3Productivity
If detailed analytics on each panel are implemented to improve efficiency, then energy conversion efficiency increases, but system complexity and monitoring costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multi-functional sensor modules that simultaneously measure multiple parameters (voltage, current, temperature, irradiance) on each PV panel using a single integrated device. This universal monitoring approach enables detailed analytics for efficiency optimization without proportionally increasing system complexity, as one sensor suite performs multiple measurement functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements intelligent algorithms that automatically analyze sensor data, identify faults, and optimize panel performance without requiring constant human intervention. The system self-diagnoses issues, generates maintenance alerts, and adjusts operational parameters autonomously, reducing the complexity burden of detailed panel-level analytics while maintaining high energy conversion efficiency.
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
The system enhances the efficiency and robustness of renewable energy systems by enabling remote fault detection, optimizing power output, and stabilizing solar farm performance through advanced sensory analysis and topology reconfiguration.
Implementation Method 1
Utility-scale photovoltaic (PV) array systems are being rapidly deployed in several areas and are now capable of generating several megawatts of power
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of a cyber-physical system for providing cloud prediction for photovoltaic array control are disclosed herein.