Photo voltaic (PV) array-shedding and storage system
US9899869B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 3, 2014 |
| Grant date | Feb 20, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 6, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E10/56
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The present invention provides for a photovoltaic system and circuit having array shedding functionality. The system and circuit, in general, have at least two photovoltaic strings, at least one inverter; and, an array shedding and harvesting functionality configured to monitor the inverter and either disconnect or connect inputs of the at least two photovoltaic strings as needed to produce power for the at least one inverter or to produce power for storage. The array shedding and harvesting functionality is preferably integrated between photovoltaic (PV) strings and the output of the inverter. Various embodiments provide for sensors integrated on each of the inputs of a power assembly combiner, current sensors used to sense current provided on each of multiple inputs from power sources (PV arrays or combiners), and direct current (DC) contactors used to control connection of power source inputs.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.