Rapid shutdown device for photovoltaic modules
US11811361B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 14, 2022 |
| Grant date | Nov 7, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 14, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E40/70
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A rapid shutdown device for rapidly de-energizing a photovoltaic module system is disclosed. The rapid shutdown device includes power lines connected to a photovoltaic string of modules on a roof of a structure. A high voltage switch on a first power line is disconnected when the high voltage switch is open. The rapid shutdown device includes a gate drive circuit that receives an electronic photovoltaic string status signal associated with an operating status of the photovoltaic string. The gate drive circuit may determine that the operating status indicates the presence of a hazard based on the electronic photovoltaic string status signal. Based on presence of the hazard, the rapid shutdown device generates a high voltage switch command signal to cause the high voltage switch to open to disconnect the photovoltaic string from an electrical connection to a grid power supply, thereby enhancing protection of the string and safety for responders.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.