Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090133736 | Apparatuses and Methods to Reduce Safety Risks Associated with Photovoltaic Systems - Apparatuses and methods to reduce safety risks associated with photovoltaic systems by providing a safety switch on a photovoltaic panel. In one embodiment, a photovoltaic panel includes: at least one photovoltaic cell; a connector to output energy from the photovoltaic panel; and a switch coupled between the at least one photovoltaic cell and the connector. The switch is configured to disconnect the at least one photovoltaic cell from the connector during installation of the photovoltaic panel, and to connect the at least one photovoltaic cell with the connector after installation of the photovoltaic panel. | 05-28-2009 |
20100026097 | Systems to Connect Multiple Direct Current Energy Sources to an Alternating Current System - High voltage direct current systems to connect direct current energy sources to an alternating current system. In one aspect, a system includes a plurality of direct current modules having variable direct current inputs; an inverter; and a direct current bus to connect the direct current modules to the inverter, where the bus is configured to operate at a nominal voltage higher than 100 volts and to operate within 10 percent of the nominal operating voltage. | 02-04-2010 |
20100027297 | Step-Up Converter Systems and Methods - Methods and systems with a step-up converter are provided based on a boost converter. In one aspect, a step-up converter includes: a boost converter having a first inductor; a second inductor paired on a core with the first inductor; and a rectifier circuit coupled with the second inductor to generate a direct current output. | 02-04-2010 |
20100127570 | Systems and Methods for Using a Power Converter for Transmission of Data over the Power Feed - Apparatuses and methods include a photovoltaic energy production unit to generate electricity. A local management unit is coupled between the photovoltaic energy production unit and a connection of energy production units forming a string bus. The local management unit includes a controller and switching circuitry. The controller provide a control for the switching circuitry to deliver electrical energy to the string bus. A communication transmission modulator is associated with the local management unit. The communication transmission modulator modulates the control with data to be transmitted from the local management unit over the string bus. | 05-27-2010 |
20100127571 | Systems and Methods to Balance Solar Panels in a Multi-Panel System - Systems and methods to balance currents among a plurality of photovoltaic units connected in series. In aspect, a management unit is coupled between a photovoltaic energy production unit and a string of energy production units. The management unit has an energy storage element (e.g., a capacitor) connected to the photovoltaic energy production unit. The management unit further has a switch to selectively couple to the energy storage element and the photovoltaic energy production unit to the string. The management unit allows the current in the string to be larger than the current in the photovoltaic energy production unit. | 05-27-2010 |
20100139732 | System and Method for Prevention of Open Loop Damage During or Immediately After Manufacturing - A solar cell having an open loop voltage that approaches a critical voltage range when exposed to light. A circuit, connected to the solar cell, is configured to load the solar cell when the open loop voltage of the solar cell reaches a threshold within a predetermined range of the critical voltage range. | 06-10-2010 |
20100139734 | Systems and Methods for an Enhanced Watchdog in Solar Module Installations - Systems and methods are disclosed for automatically or remotely rendering a solar array safe during an emergency or maintenance. A watchdog unit is disclosed for monitoring a signal from a central controller. If the signal is lost, interrupted, or becomes irregular, or if a shutdown signal is received, then the watchdog unit can shutdown one or more solar modules. Shutting down a solar module can mean disconnecting it from a power bus of the solar array or lowering the solar module voltage to a safe level. | 06-10-2010 |
20100139743 | Novel System and Method for Addressing Solar Energy Production Capacity Loss Due to Field Buildup Between Cells and Glass and Frame Assembly - Systems and methods are disclosed for removing charge buildup/leakage from solar modules. A discharge controller may be coupled between a solar module and a string bus of a solar array. The discharge controller may be configured to disconnect the solar module from the string bus, and to connect a grounded frame to solar cells of the solar module. Since the grounded frame of the solar module may be grounded, connecting the grounded frame and the solar cells allows charge buildup/leakage to discharge into ground. | 06-10-2010 |
20100332047 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DISTRIBUTED POWER FACTOR CORRECTION AND PHASE BALANCING - A power management system includes a plurality of monitors, communicatively coupled together over a communications medium. Each respective monitor of the plurality of monitors is configured to capture power factor (PF) data at a corresponding distribution segment for calculation of a PF correction. | 12-30-2010 |
20110025130 | SYSTEMS AND METHOD FOR LIMITING MAXIMUM VOLTAGE IN SOLAR PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER GENERATION SYSTEMS - Apparatuses and methods are disclosed for regulating or limiting the voltage output from solar modules connected in series such that the voltage on a string bus connecting those solar modules does not exceed regulatory or safety limitations. This can be accomplished via a controller, local management units (for downconverting solar module voltage output), or a combination of the two. | 02-03-2011 |
20110061713 | Apparatuses and Methods to Reduce Safety Risks Associated with Photovoltaic Systems - Apparatuses and methods to reduce safety risks associated with photovoltaic systems by providing a safety switch on a photovoltaic panel. In one embodiment, a photovoltaic panel includes: at least one photovoltaic cell; a connector to output energy from the photovoltaic panel; and a switch coupled between the at least one photovoltaic cell and the connector. The switch is configured to disconnect the at least one photovoltaic cell from the connector during installation of the photovoltaic panel, and to connect the at least one photovoltaic cell with the connector after installation of the photovoltaic panel. | 03-17-2011 |
20110161722 | Systems and Methods for a Communication Protocol Between a Local Controller and a Master Controller - Systems and methods for local management units in a photovoltaic energy system. In one embodiment, a method implemented in a computer system includes: attempting to communicate on a first active channel with a master management unit from a local management unit that controls a solar module; if communication with the master management unit on the first active channel has not been established, attempting to communicate on a second active channel with the master management unit. | 06-30-2011 |
20110173276 | Systems and Methods for an Identification Protocol Between a Local Controller and a Master Controller - Systems and methods for local and master management units in a photovoltaic energy system. In one embodiment, a method implemented in a computer system includes sending a first identification code from a local management unit to a master management unit. The first identification code is associated with the first local management unit, and the local management unit controls a solar module. An authentication of the first identification code is received from the master management unit. In response to receiving the authentication, active operation of the local management unit is continued (e.g., for a set time period). | 07-14-2011 |
20110218687 | System and Method for Enhanced Watch Dog in Solar Panel Installations - A system and method for automated shutdown, disconnect, or power reduction of solar panels. A system of solar panels includes one or more master management units (MMUs) and one or more local management units (LMUs). The MMUs are in communication with the LMUs with the MMUs and LMUs “handshaking” when the system is in operation. The MMUs are connected to one or more controllers which in turn are connected to emergency detection sensors. Upon a sensor detection of an emergency, the associated MMU is notified which in turn instructs associated LMUs to take appropriate action. In the event that communication with the MMUs has been cut off, the LMUs take the initiative to shutdown, disconnect, or reduce the output of associated string(s) of solar panels. | 09-08-2011 |
20110245989 | Systems and Methods for Mapping the Connectivity Topology of Local Management Units in Photovoltaic Arrays - Provided are a system and method for determining a connectivity topology of local management units (LMUs) in a solar photovoltaic power generation (SPVPG) system. Each of the LMUs is connected within the SPVPG between a solar panel and a set of power lines of the SPVPG. The set of power lines connects the LMUs to form a network. The connectivity topology of LMUs in the network is determined using, for example, indirect indications of connections of an LMU and the SPVPG and indications of the physical location of the LMU with respect to other elements of the SPVPG. | 10-06-2011 |
20110260866 | Enhanced System and Method for Theft Prevention in a Solar Power Array During Nonoperative Periods - Solar panel theft protection system operable both during daytime and nighttime. Power is feed into a solar array system sufficient to operate local management units. The units monitor solar panels; in the event that a panel is disconnected, an alarm is set off. | 10-27-2011 |
20120000515 | Systems and Methods for Prevention of Open Loop Damage During or Immediately After Manufacturing - A solar cell having an open loop voltage that approaches a critical voltage range when exposed to light. A circuit, connected to the solar cell, is configured to load the solar cell when the open loop voltage of the solar cell reaches a threshold within a predetermined range of the critical voltage range. | 01-05-2012 |
20120119584 | Systems and Method for Limiting Maximum Voltage in Solar Photovoltaic Power Generation Systems - Apparatuses and methods are disclosed for regulating or limiting the voltage output from solar modules connected in series such that the voltage on a string bus connecting those solar modules does not exceed regulatory or safety limitations. This can be accomplished via a controller, local management units (for downconverting solar module voltage output), or a combination of the two. | 05-17-2012 |
20120215367 | Systems and Methods for an Identification Protocol Between a Local Controller and a Master Controller - Systems and methods for local and master management units in a photovoltaic energy system. In one embodiment, a method implemented in a computer system includes sending a first identification code from a local management unit to a master management unit. The first identification code is associated with the first local management unit, and the local management unit controls a solar module. An authentication of the first identification code is received from the master management unit. In response to receiving the authentication, active operation of the local management unit is continued (e.g., for a set time period). | 08-23-2012 |
20120253533 | System and Method for Arc Detection and Intervention in Solar Energy Systems - An arc detection and intervention system for a solar energy system. One or more arc detectors are strategically located among strings of solar panels. In conjunction with local management units (LMUs), arcs can be isolated and affected panels disconnected from the solar energy system. | 10-04-2012 |
20120253541 | System and Method for Local String Management Unit - Apparatuses and methods include a solar array having one or more strings of series-connected local management units (LMUs). Each LMU is parallel-connected to one of a plurality of solar modules. The strings are connected in parallel via a parallel bus. Local string management units (LSMUs) can increase or decrease an output voltage of the solar array by upconverting or downconverting string output voltages from each string. LSMUs can also operate in a bypass mode to increase overall power output. | 10-04-2012 |
20120255591 | Enhanced Systems and Methods for Using a Power Converter for Balancing Modules in Single-String and Multi-String Configurations - Apparatuses and methods include a solar array having one or more string buses of series-connected solar modules. The current outputs from the solar modules on each string bus can be balanced along with the voltage output from the string buses. Local management units coupled between the solar modules and the string buses are configured to control the voltage output from each solar module. When the solar modules on each string are balanced, and when the string buses are balanced (or before the solar modules and string buses are balanced), an inverter or other device connected to the solar array can find the array's maximum power point via a maximum power point tracking algorithm. | 10-11-2012 |
20130026840 | Systems and Methods to Reduce the Number and Cost of Management Units of Distributed Power Generators - 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. | 01-31-2013 |
20130026842 | Enhanced System and Method for String-Balancing - 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. | 01-31-2013 |
20130026843 | System and Method for Local String Management Unit - Apparatuses and methods include a solar array having one or more strings of series-connected local management units (LMUs). Each LMU is parallel-connected to one of a plurality of solar modules. The strings are connected in parallel via a parallel bus. Local string management units (LSMUs) can increase or decrease an output voltage of the solar array by upconverting or downconverting string output voltages from each string. LSMUs can also operate in a bypass mode to increase overall power output. | 01-31-2013 |
20130192657 | Enhanced System and Method for Matrix Panel Ties for Large Installations - A low voltage/power ratio photovoltaic power generation panel includes a plurality of photovoltaic cells, wherein at least a subset of the cells are arranged in an array of “x” columns and “y” rows of cells connected in a two dimensional matrix configuration, wherein the cells in each row are connected in parallel and the cells in each column are connected in series. The cells in the panel are connected by arranging the plurality of cells in a plurality of columns, each column having a number of cells; arranging the plurality of columns in the number of rows; and connecting the plurality of cells together in a two dimensional matrix configuration by connecting the cells in each row together in parallel and the cells in each column in series. | 08-01-2013 |
20140327313 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR LOW-COST, HIGH-EFFICIENCY SOLAR PANEL POWER FEED - A cascading regulation system connected to a number of serially connected power sources and uses multiple regulators having different cutoff voltages to provide an output for the local power consumption unit. Each of the regulators is connected to a subset of serially connected power sources and so configured that if the voltage generated at the lowest tap is no longer sufficient for a stable supply to the local power consumption unit, the next higher regulator takes over, and the output voltage drops in small steps reflective of that takeover of the next higher tap. When the voltage generated across a subsection grows, a lower connected tap may take over again, producing a slightly higher output voltage for the local power consumption unit. The cutover steps are chosen such that the output voltage range matches the range given as the acceptable input range for the local power consumption unit. | 11-06-2014 |
20150053250 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ENHANCED WATCH DOG IN SOLAR PANEL INSTALLATIONS - A system and method for automated shutdown, disconnect, or power reduction of solar panels. A system of solar panels includes one or more master management units (MMUs) and one or more local management units (LMUs). The MMUs are in communication with the LMUs with the MMUs and LMUs “handshaking” when the system is in operation. The MMUs are connected to one or more controllers which in turn are connected to emergency detection sensors. Upon a sensor detection of an emergency, the associated MMU is notified which in turn instructs associated LMUs to take appropriate action. In the event that communication with the MMUs has been cut off, the LMUs take the initiative to shutdown, disconnect, or reduce the output of associated string(s) of solar panels. | 02-26-2015 |