Solar Array Module Crisscross Matrix Bypass Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solar array modules face reduced power generation due to light obstruction and malfunctioning rows of solar cells, as shadowed cells block electrical transmission and reduce overall energy production.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of high efficiency DC/DC power converters with parallel outputs and a crisscross matrix configuration, allowing current to bypass malfunctioning cells and maintain electrical circuit operation, combined with a regulated system that includes a processor and controller to optimize power output across varying conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If solar array modules are tilted towards the sun to maximize power generation, then power generation efficiency is improved, but light obstruction from adjacent modules increases at low sun angles
Solution Approach 1:
The solar array module is segmented into multiple independent string modules, where each string module contains a series-connected string of solar cells. This segmentation allows the system to isolate and bypass affected segments while maintaining operation of unaffected segments, thereby resolving the contradiction between maximizing power generation and dealing with light obstruction.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary bypass circuit with switching elements that mediates between the solar cells and the load. When light obstruction affects certain solar cells, the bypass circuit activates alternative current paths, allowing the system to maintain power generation from unobstructed cells while circumventing the obstructed ones.
2Reliability
If solar cells are interconnected in a crisscross matrix configuration, then electrical transmission is improved, but malfunctioning or shaded cells still block current transmission in their respective columns
Solution Approach 1:
The solar array is divided into multiple independent string modules, where each module contains a series-connected string of solar cells. This segmentation isolates malfunctioning cells to specific modules, preventing them from blocking current in the entire array. Each module can be independently bypassed or regulated.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces DC/DC power converters as intermediary devices between the solar cell modules and the load. These converters act as mediators that can detect and compensate for current blocking caused by malfunctioning cells, maintaining overall system reliability by regulating power flow around affected cells.
3Productivity
If all solar cells in a row are shaded or malfunctioning, then power generation from those cells drops to zero, but the entire module's output is reduced due to series connection
Solution Approach 1:
The solar array is segmented into multiple parallel-connected string modules, where each module contains series-connected solar cells. When one module experiences complete shading or malfunction, only that specific module's output is affected, while other modules continue to generate power independently, thereby reducing overall energy loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces DC/DC power converters as intermediary devices that can detect and compensate for complete output loss in individual modules. These converters regulate and balance power distribution across parallel modules, ensuring that complete failure of one module does not proportionally reduce the entire system's output.
4Productivity
If a regulated system with DC/DC power converters is implemented to maximize power output, then power generation efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The solar array is divided into multiple independent string modules that can be independently regulated by individual DC/DC power converters. This segmentation allows the complex regulated system to be broken down into manageable, modular units, each handling a specific portion of the array, thereby making the overall complexity more controllable and maintainable.
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 configuration enhances power generation by allowing solar array modules to operate at their Maximum Power Point, even with obstructed or malfunctioning cells, thereby maximizing energy production and maintaining efficiency across different light and temperature conditions.
Implementation Method 1
Photovoltaic cells have been widely used in a variety of applications to generate convenient electricity
Data Source
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Figure 3a
AI summary
A modular solar panel system facilitated to maximize the power generation from a solar module, configured to maximize power generation from a plurality of solar cells under conditions of partial shade or light obstruction. The modular solar panel system includes a crisscross network configuration arrays, wherein the solar cells are often subjected to at least partial shading and wherein the present invention provides innovative configurations to minimize the damage inflicted by the shadows.