Solar Power Control Device MPPT Inductor-Free Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solar power generation systems face inefficiencies due to the need for inductors in DC-DC converters for maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control, which limits the application to various power converting means and struggles with partial shading and multiple peaks in output power.
Innovation Solution
A control method that alternates between maximum power detection and tracking modes, using a switching element to detect optimal operation voltage without relying on inductors, allowing for efficient power conversion with various power converting means, including those without inductors, and effectively managing partial shading and multiple peaks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the amount of change of pulse width is reduced to improve measurement precision of maximum power point, then the response speed to irradiance changes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by alternately switching between maximum power detection mode and tracking operation mode. In detection mode, the system performs comprehensive I-V characteristic scanning to accurately identify the maximum power point. In tracking mode, it operates with smaller pulse width changes to maintain precision. This periodic alternation allows the system to achieve both high detection precision and fast response to irradiance changes.
2Speed
If the switching frequency of DC-DC converter is increased to improve response speed, then the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the pulse width change amount variable rather than fixed. The control system dynamically adjusts the pulse width change amount based on operating conditions: using larger changes during initial detection to speed up convergence, and smaller changes during tracking to maintain precision. This dynamic adjustment achieves fast response without requiring high switching frequency or complex hardware.
3Speed
If the amount of change of pulse width is increased to improve response speed, then the power fluctuation in steady state increases reducing power acquisition efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the control process into two distinct phases: maximum power detection mode and tracking operation mode. In detection mode, large pulse width changes are used to quickly locate the maximum power point. In tracking mode, small pulse width changes are used to maintain steady-state operation with minimal power fluctuation. This segmentation allows the system to achieve fast response during transitions while maintaining high power acquisition efficiency during steady-state operation.
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
Enables high-efficiency power conversion in both grid-connected and independent solar power systems, improving response to irradiance changes and maintaining high power acquisition efficiency even under partial shading or mixed panel configurations.
Implementation Method 1
a switching element, converts an output voltage of the light power generation unit in response to on/off operation of the switching element
Data Source
AI summary
In a light power generation system, a control device, a control method, and a program, efficient power can be supplied. The maximum power detection unit operates a MOSFET in a power converter circuit and open-circuits both ends of a solar cell panel in the maximum power detection mode. After that, the maximum power detection unit short-circuits both ends of the solar cell panel, detects a maximum power by monitoring the output power of the solar cell panel during a period from the open state to the short-circuited state, and defines the voltage of the solar cell panel as an optimal voltage when detecting the maximum power. In a tracking operation mode, the control unit performs PWM control with respect to the MOSFET by defining the optimal voltage to be a reference signal. Operations are repeated between the maximum power detection mode and the tracking operation mode.