Solar Module Local Management Units for Power Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms in photovoltaic systems struggle to optimize energy production due to differences in solar module performance caused by installation variations, degradation, or shading, leading to reduced overall power output as weaker modules affect stronger ones in the same string or wiring section.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of local management units (LMUs) that periodically switch on and off weak solar modules to isolate their impact on the string bus, using the electrical noise generated by LMUs as a carrier signal for data transmission to a central unit, allowing for remote control and optimization of each module's operation to maximize power generation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional MPPT algorithms are used to control the entire solar array as a single unit, then the control system remains simple and cost-effective, but the system cannot optimize power output when solar modules operate at different working points due to installation variations, degradation, or shading

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower outputVSAvoidcontrol system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The solar array is divided into multiple independent strings, with each string equipped with its own local management unit (LMU) that can independently control the switching of individual solar modules. This segmentation allows each module to operate at its optimal working point while maintaining overall system manageability through modular architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each solar module is equipped with a local management unit that provides individualized control based on the specific performance characteristics of that module. The LMUs adjust switching duties locally to account for installation variations, degradation, or shading affecting individual modules, enabling each module to operate at its maximum power point independently.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Productivity

If local management units are deployed to individually control each solar module, then the system can optimize power output from each module, but the cost and complexity of the system increases due to the number of management units required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower outputVSAvoidsystem cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The local management units are designed to perform multiple functions: they control the switching of individual solar modules, monitor system performance, and communicate with both the central controller and other LMUs. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each module, thereby reducing overall system cost despite the increased number of control units.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a standardized, replicated LMU design that can be mass-produced and deployed across multiple modules. By using identical control unit architectures for each module, the system benefits from economies of scale in manufacturing, reducing the per-unit cost even when deploying numerous LMUs throughout the solar array.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

3Productivity

If multiple local management units are used to control individual modules, then each module can be optimized independently, but the system generates more electrical noise that can interfere with data transmission

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepower outputVSAvoidsystem noise

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The local management units switch solar modules on and off in periodic cycles rather than continuously, which reduces the generation of electrical noise. The periodic switching allows the system to maintain optimization benefits while minimizing the duration and intensity of noise generation events.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a central controller as an intermediary that coordinates the operation of multiple LMUs. This central controller manages the switching schedules of individual LMUs to stagger their operation, preventing simultaneous switching events that would amplify noise. The intermediary also filters and manages data transmission to reduce interference from multiple sources.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10312692B2Systems and methods to reduce the number and cost of management units of distributed power generators

Publication Date: 2019.06.04 TIGO ENERGY INNOVATIONS LLC

AI summary

Apparatuses and methods for configuring and managing solar panels to form strings of photovoltaic energy generators with improved performance and reduced cost. The photovoltaic energy generators are connected via one or more combined local management units (CLMUs), each having a plurality of direct current converters connected to and configured to receive direct current power from a respective solar panel. A controller unit shared by the CLMU's direct current converters is utilized to separately control the operation of each converter such that the power extracted from the solar panels is maximized. A communications unit coupled with the controller unit is utilized to facilitate communications between the controller unit and a system unit remote from the CLMU to report measurements and receive control signals.