Solar Cell Adjustment System for Shaded Module Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Partial shading in solar cell module strings leads to uneven electrical characteristics, causing shaded modules to operate inefficiently and reducing overall power generation, as existing solutions like micro-converter/inverter-based control schemes are costly and complex, and conventional voltage equalization circuits fail to maximize power utilization.
Innovation Solution
A solar cell adjustment system with a multi-stage voltage multiplier rectification circuit and an inverter that converts the summed voltage of solar cell modules into AC, allowing for compensation current supply to shaded modules to adjust their operating voltage and frequency, enabling operation at the maximum power point.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If bypass diode is connected to shaded module to prevent inverse bias, then module reliability is improved, but power generation efficiency deteriorates due to significant reduction of utilizable electric power
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a compensation current as an intermediary element that flows through the shaded module to prevent inverse bias without requiring bypass diode conduction. This compensation current is supplied by other modules in the string, allowing the shaded module to maintain proper voltage polarity while still contributing to power generation, thus resolving the contradiction between reliability and efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical parameters (voltage and current) of the shaded module by introducing compensation current from other modules. This parameter adjustment allows the shaded module to operate at its maximum power point even under partial shading conditions, preventing the efficiency loss that would occur with bypass diode activation
2Device complexity
If conventional voltage equalization circuit is used, then device complexity is reduced, but power utilization efficiency deteriorates because it fails to maximize power generation from shaded modules
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the solar cell modules serve multiple functions: they both generate power and provide compensation current to shaded modules. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain simple circuit architecture while achieving advanced power optimization that maximizes utilization of shaded modules through inter-module current sharing
3Productivity
If micro-converter/inverter-based control scheme is used, then power generation efficiency is improved by individual module control, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple individual module controllers into a single centralized control system that manages the entire string. By combining control functions and using the existing series connection architecture, the system achieves individual module optimization without requiring separate micro-converters or inverters for each module, thus reducing complexity while maintaining 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 effectively adjusts shaded modules to operate at a lower voltage, ensuring all modules operate at their maximum power points, maximizing energy utilization and reducing ripple current, thus enhancing the reliability and efficiency of solar power generation.
Implementation Method 1
an inverter (100) comprising a capacitive element and an inductive element, wherein the inverter is configured to receive an input of a summed voltage of voltages applied, respectively, to the 1st to n-th solar cell modules, convert the input summed voltage into an AC (Alternating Current) voltage
Implementation Method 2
A solar cell is designed to convert light energy into electric power by means of a photovoltaic effect
Data Source
AI summary
[Problem] It is intended to provide a system, a related method and a minimum current detection and control system for, even when partial shading occurs in a string composed of a series connection of a plurality of solar cell modules, maintaining an output current of the whole.[Solution] By inputting an output voltage of the string into an inverter to convert the output voltage into an AC voltage and applying the AC voltage to the string via a multi-stage voltage multiplier rectification circuit, a compensation current is supplied to a shaded module on a priority basis to maintain an output current of the whole string while lowering an operating voltage of the shaded module by impedance generated on a pathway of the compensation current. Further provided are a system and the like constructed by multistage-connecting an output-side circuit section of one of various types of converters to the solar cell modules, and configured to supply a compensation current from the converter section to the shaded module on a priority basis.