Solar Array Discontinuity Detection Using Capacitive Signal Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for detecting discontinuities in solar arrays are often too large or expensive for on-site use, particularly in challenging environments, and struggle to accurately locate partial discontinuities, leading to increased time and complexity in repairs.
Innovation Solution
A kit and method that includes capacitors in solar modules, connectors, and integrated flashing pieces to block direct current and allow alternating current signals to pass, enabling the detection of discontinuities and partial discontinuities by measuring alternating voltage and current levels along the solar array.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing discontinuity detection devices are used, then discontinuities can be detected, but the devices are too large and expensive for on-site use in challenging environments
Solution Approach 1:
The solar array system is segmented by integrating capacitors at specific connection points between solar modules, connectors, and integrated flashing pieces. This segmentation allows the detection system to isolate and identify discontinuities in specific segments rather than requiring a single large centralized detection device, enabling portable on-site detection while maintaining accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
Capacitors are introduced as intermediary components between solar modules, connectors, and integrated flashing pieces. These capacitors serve as signal isolation elements that block direct current while allowing alternating current test signals to pass through, enabling accurate discontinuity detection without requiring complex large-scale detection equipment
2Measurement precision
If traditional detection methods are used, then discontinuities can be located, but partial discontinuities cannot be accurately detected
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by placing capacitors at specific local connection points throughout the solar array. This localized approach allows the detection system to identify not only complete discontinuities but also partial discontinuities at specific locations, enabling accurate detection without requiring multiple repeated testing attempts that would consume time
3Measurement precision
If signal isolation is not implemented, then detection is simpler, but accurate determination of connection status cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
Capacitors serve as intermediary signal isolation components that are integrated into the solar array connections. These capacitors block direct current while allowing alternating current test signals to pass, providing automatic signal isolation that enables accurate connection status determination without requiring additional complex isolation equipment or procedures
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 solution provides an accurate means to determine the status of connections in solar arrays, allowing for efficient localization and repair of discontinuities, even in difficult environments, by isolating and measuring signal continuity, discontinuity, or partial discontinuity.
Implementation Method 1
the one or more solar modules, the one or more connectors, and the one or more integrated flashing pieces, or a combination thereof include a capacitor between the first buss and the second buss so that the capacitor blocks direct current from passing through the first buss, the second buss, or both and allows an alternating current signal, an alternating voltage signal, or both to pass through
Data Source
AI summary
A kit comprising one or more of the following one or more solar modules (10); one of more connectors (30); and one or more integrated flashing pieces (40), wherein the one or more solar modules, the one or more connectors, and the one or more integrated flashing pieces include a first buss (16) and a second buss (18); wherein the one or more solar modules, the one or more connectors, the one or more integrated flashing pieces, or a combination thereof include a capacitor between the first buss and the second buss so that the capacitor blocks direct current from passing through the first buss, the second buss, or both and allows an alternating: current signal, an alternating voltage signal or both to pass trough the first buss, the second buss, or both so that a discontinuity, partial discontinuity, or continuity of the one more solar modules, the one or more, connectors, the one or more integrated flashing pieces, or a combination of connections therebetween are detectable when the one or more solar modules, the one or more connectors, and the one or more integrated flashing pieces are electrically connected.