Operating direct current (DC) power sources in an array for enhanced efficiency
US8618693B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 25, 2011 |
| Grant date | Dec 31, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 14, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG05F1/67
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
In a solar panel array that includes a string of series-connected panels, the load current flowing through the string is measured. The peak current (Ipp) of a panel in the string is determined. A current equal to the difference of the load current and the peak current (Ipp) is generated in a current source connected across the output terminals of the panel. The panel is thereby operated at its maximum power point (MPP). To determine the peak current (Ipp) of the panel, the magnitude of current flowing through the panel is iteratively changed and the corresponding power generated by the panel is computed. The change in the current through the panel and the measurement of the corresponding power are repeated until a maximum power is determined as being generated by the panel. The maximum power corresponds to the maximum power point (MPP) and the peak current (Ipp) of the panel.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.