Solar String Matcher Circuit for Mixed-Panel MPPT Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
In solar power generation systems, the integration of newer, more efficient solar panels with older panels disrupts the power balance and efficiency due to excess voltage and current, leading to wasted energy and accelerated panel deterioration, especially when trying to maximize power production while adhering to voltage limits and using non-flexible inverters.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an Injection Circuit (IC) with multiple MPPT mechanisms and DC/DC converters that separates and regulates the power of newer panels, utilizing excess energy directly into the inverter via a DC bus, maintaining the initial power balance and extending the lifespan of older panels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If newer, more efficient solar panels are integrated into existing solar strings, then power production is increased, but power balance is disrupted and older panels deteriorate faster
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the solar string into two independent groups: older panels connected through a matcher circuit and newer panels connected directly to the inverter. This segmentation allows each group to operate independently at their respective maximum power points, preventing the newer panels from overwhelming the older ones while maintaining overall system balance.
Solution Approach 2:
The matcher circuit acts as an intermediary device between the older solar panels and the inverter. It regulates the voltage and current from the older panels, matching them to appropriate operating levels, and prevents excess power from the newer panels from causing harm to the older panels while still utilizing their full power potential.
2Device complexity
If all panels in a string operate at the same current, then system simplicity is maintained, but excess power from newer panels is wasted and converted to heat
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the solar panels into separate operational groups, allowing the newer, more efficient panels to operate independently from the older panels. This segmentation enables the newer panels to generate their full power potential without being limited by the current constraints of older panels, thereby reducing energy waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of different panel groups by allowing them to operate at different currents and voltages. The matcher circuit enables older panels to operate at lower current levels appropriate for their efficiency, while newer panels can operate at higher current levels, optimizing overall power extraction without wasting excess energy as heat.
3Productivity
If maximum power point tracking is applied to the entire array, then overall power is maximized, but individual panel characteristics are not optimized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements separate maximum power point tracking for different panel groups. The matcher circuit performs MPPT optimization for older panels independently, while newer panels can be optimized separately or in groups. This allows each panel type to have its MPP tracked according to its specific characteristics rather than forcing a single operating point on all panels.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies different operational qualities to different parts of the solar array. Older panels receive localized MPPT optimization through the matcher circuit tailored to their efficiency characteristics, while newer panels can operate at their own optimal points. This local quality approach ensures each panel group operates at its best performance level.
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 solution maximizes power production from multi-module solar strings by utilizing excess voltage and current from newer panels without reducing the efficiency of older panels, maintaining the power balance and extending their lifespan, while being cost-effective and compatible with various inverter types.
Implementation Method 1
a first DC/DC converter, for regulating the power of said connected string by converting some of the power, from said at least one separated panel, to regulating power for said connected string; and a second DC/DC converter, for converting and utilizing, the excess power from said at least one separated panel
Implementation Method 2
a first MPPT mechanism, for finding the MPP of at least part of said string; a second MPPT mechanism, for finding the MPP of said at least one separated panel
Implementation Method 3
Photovoltaic cells are semiconductor devices that convert light into energy. When light shines on a panel, a voltage develops across the panel, and when connected to a load, current flows
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to an apparatus for maximizing the power of a multi module solar string power generation system, comprising an Injection Circuit (IC), connected to a DC bus and to a string of solar panels, wherein the IC is also connected to at least one separated solar panel of the string. The IC regulates the power production of the connected string and utilizes the excess power to the solar inverter. The IC comprises: (i) a first MPPT mechanism, for finding the MPP of the string; (ii) a second MPPT mechanism, for finding the MPP of the separated panel; (iii) a first DC/DC converter, for converting some of the power, from the separated panel, to regulating power for the connected string; and (iv) a second DC/DC converter, for converting and utilizing, the excess power from the separated panel, to the solar inverter using the DC bus.