Storage Control Apparatus for Solar MPPT via Dynamic Path Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for maximum power point tracking (MPPT) in solar power generation systems face limitations, such as power loss in DC-DC converters and voltage mismatch issues when connecting multiple solar batteries in parallel or series, which affect efficiency and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A storage control apparatus that divides power generating elements into groups, using path switching units to connect some groups directly to a storage element and others through a voltage converting unit, allowing for efficient MPPT control while minimizing power loss by bypassing the voltage converting unit when voltage differences are within a predetermined range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a DC-DC converter is used to control MPPT, then maximum power can be obtained from solar batteries, but power loss occurs in the converter and control circuit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the DC-DC converter component from the system entirely. Instead of using a converter to achieve MPPT, the invention directly connects solar batteries in series to naturally reach the MPP voltage, eliminating the source of power loss in converters and control circuits while still achieving maximum power extraction
2Power
If solar batteries are connected in parallel to increase current, then more power can be generated, but voltage mismatch occurs between batteries with different MPP voltages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the solar battery system into individual units that can be independently connected in series. Each battery maintains its own MPP characteristics, and by connecting them in series rather than parallel, the system avoids voltage mismatch issues while still achieving high power output through voltage accumulation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic path switching capability that allows the system to adaptively reconfigure battery connections based on real-time MPP voltage variations caused by environmental changes. This dynamic adjustment ensures continuous optimal operation without voltage mismatch
3Power
If the number of solar batteries is increased to improve power output, then more power can be generated, but the complexity of connection paths increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal connection architecture where solar batteries can be dynamically reconfigured between series and parallel connections through switching elements. This multi-functional design allows the same hardware structure to handle different numbers of batteries and different operating conditions, reducing overall system complexity despite increased power capacity
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 approach maintains maximum power points of solar batteries, reduces power loss, and ensures efficient energy transfer to storage elements by dynamically adjusting the connection paths based on illumination and temperature changes.
Implementation Method 1
solar batteries have a property as a current source that depends on a voltage between terminals
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of power generating elements 111 that generate electromotive force
Data Source
AI summary
Power generating elements output electromotive force. A path switching unit switches a path for connecting arbitrary power generating elements among the power generating elements. A voltage converting unit is a DC-DC converter that converts voltage levels of outputs of some of the power generating elements. A path switching control unit controls the path switching unit such that a set of power generating elements where a sum of maximum power point voltages falls within a range of an appropriate charging voltage of a storage element is connected to a short-circuit path and the other power generating elements are connected to a transformation path. A voltage conversion control unit controls a transformation rate of voltage conversion in the voltage converting unit such that a voltage in the transformation path and a voltage in the short-circuit path become equal to each other.