Patent · US Expired

Photovoltaic system controller

US4888702A · kind A · utility

241Cited by
8References
19Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateAug 20, 1987
Grant dateDec 19, 1989
Priority date
Expiry dateAug 20, 2007

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY02E10/56
  • WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
  • WIPO sectorElectrical engineering

Abstract

A photovoltaic system controller particularly adapted for utilization with a photovoltaic power system including a photovoltaic array, system battery, load and, optionally, an auxiliary generator. The controller utilizes a microprocessor to monitor various parameters of the system and to perform system control functions. The microprocessor is provided with a plurality of setpoints corresponding to desired system parameters for utilization as reference points for the conducting of control functions. The setpoints are adapted to be easily field adjustable to cover a wide range of parameters. The controller is particularly suited for adaption to an entire spectrum of system designs merely by replacing the programmable memory component of the controller. The controller derives its power from a tap off the system battery and is designed to withstand the harsh environment associated with remote site locations. All of the control functions are temperature compensated. The controller is provided with timing control means which allows the controller to be inactive between operating cycles so as to reduce power requirements.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.