JP2010245532A - Antitheft and monitoring system for photovoltaic panel - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an inexpensive antitheft system of high reliability, for monitoring photovoltaic panels with simple constitution. <P>SOLUTION: In an antitheft and monitoring system 10 and 11 for a plurality of photovoltaic panels 1, the panels 1 are connected by means of a connection line L to a distribution substation 5. The monitoring system 10 includes a first unit 11 designed to generate an activation code 4 and associated to the distribution substation 5, so as to interrupt operation of the respective panels 1 in the absence of the activation code 4 for a pre-set period. Further, a second units 10 associated with the panels 1 are each designed to selectively activate a photovoltaic panel with a unique activation code 4 generated by the first unit 11, and outputs the corresponding unique activation code 4 to the connection line L to detect voltage and current characteristics of each panel 1 having been activated, thereby selectively activating the respective panels 1. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a crime prevention and monitoring system for a photovoltaic power generation panel.

  In recent years, photovoltaic power generation technology has expanded dramatically. In particular, solar power technology is extremely advantageous in remote areas where the majority of the strategic role of generating distributed electrical energy always occupies. However, because it is not managed in most of these areas, photovoltaic panels are at high risk of theft.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a crime prevention system that interrupts the operation of a photovoltaic power generation panel when the photovoltaic power generation panel is separated from a supply line is known from, for example, International Patent Application No. 97/42664.
This application describes a security device for photovoltaic panels connected to a distribution line via a connection line. In particular, the security device includes a first unit associated with the distribution line and a second unit associated with the panel. The first unit is configured to generate an activation code, and the second unit is configured to interrupt the operation of the panel when the activation code is not supplied.

  In a photovoltaic plant having a large number of panels, a need arises to utilize a monitoring function that can identify panels exhibiting abnormal behavior in order to plan interruptions due to panel cleaning and / or replacement.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a crime prevention system capable of monitoring a photovoltaic power generation panel and further having a simple configuration, high reliability, and low cost.

According to the invention, the above object is achieved by a monitoring system having the features that form the subject of claim 1. The invention also relates to a method corresponding to a monitoring system.
The present invention provides a monitoring function by effectively utilizing the features of the security device. From this point, that is, it is possible to perform monitoring and diagnosis processing without reusing an already installed device and requiring installation of a dedicated system.

  The crime prevention device can be applied to any photovoltaic power generation panel. For example, illegal use or crime prevention of the crime prevention device without causing damage to the photovoltaic power generation panel that cannot be repaired through a lamination process. Eliminate the possibility of equipment removal.

  It will be clear from the description below that the monitoring of the photovoltaic area can be performed by appropriately managing a security system that prohibits the operation of panels that are not supplied with an activation code. One of the main features of the present invention is the combination of a security device and a surveillance system. The above function uses the same equipment as the panel and centralized hardware for monitoring, and that equipment is used to drive the inverter connecting the photovoltaic panel area and the power plant. The monitoring hardware also has an on-board GPS system to prevent theft of the panel combined with the inverter.

  Moreover, the features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following description of the accompanying drawings, which are provided merely as non-limiting examples.

FIG. 1 shows an example of a photovoltaic power plant equipped with a security device. FIG. 2 shows an example of the installation position of the security device in the photovoltaic power generation panel. FIG. 3 shows in detail the connection of the security device between the cells constituting the photovoltaic power generation panel. FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the panel portion. FIG. 5 shows an example of the configuration of the monitoring system. FIG. 6 shows an example of the panel region of FIG. FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of a monitoring system. FIG. 8 shows an embodiment of a monitoring system. FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of a monitoring system.

  The operation of the security device will be described in detail in the first part of the description. A monitoring system using the security device for diagnostic purposes of the photovoltaic panels constituting the photovoltaic plant is described in the second part of the description.

  With respect to FIG. 1, the crime prevention device for a photovoltaic power generation panel is connected to a distribution station 5 via a wiring L, and a first unit 11 associated with the distribution station 5 and a plurality of second units associated with a plurality of panels 1. Unit 10 is included. The first unit 11 is configured to generate the activation code 4, and each second unit 10 is configured to interrupt the operation of each photovoltaic panel 1 when the activation code 4 is not present. The

Moreover, regarding FIG. 1, the several photovoltaic power generation panel 1 is connected in parallel with the two conductors which are the connection wirings which the whole is shown by L, and comprises a photovoltaic power generation plant.
The energy generated by the photovoltaic power generation panel 1 is in the form of a direct current CC. In order to convert the direct current CC into the alternating current AC, it is necessary to introduce an inverter device indicated by reference numeral 5 in FIG. 1 into the plant. In all cases where the direct current CC is used directly, there is no inverter. However, in the continuation of this specification, the expression of the inverter is continuously used to indicate the circuit network in which the unit 4 is inserted.

The security device includes a first unit 11 linked to the distribution station 5 installed on the plant side and a plurality of second units 10 linked to the plurality of panels 1.
The first unit 11 generates an activation code, outputs the generated activation code to the conductor of the connection wiring L together with preset termination, and a high-frequency signal generated by the code generator 4 is a downstream inverter 5 and an inductance 6 that acts to prevent propagation to the upstream panel 1.

  1, the embodiment of the second unit 10 includes a counter 2a, a memory element 2b, a logic unit 2c, and a switch 3. Further, an inductance 6 that acts to prevent a signal generated by the code generator 4 from propagating to the photovoltaic power generation panel 1 and a high-frequency signal generated by the code generator 4 are output to the logic unit 2c. And a capacitor 7 acting on.

  The memory element 2b internally stores a copy of the activation code for decoding using the code supplied to the connection wiring L. The memory element 2b is preferably a ROM (Read-Only Memory), and the activation code can be written and personalized by an operator during installation or at the factory, in which case the code is communicated to the user. There is a need to.

The counter 2a is arranged in each panel 1 and functions to record the waiting time of the activation code.
The code generator 4 periodically supplies the activation code to the wiring L. The logic unit 2 c processes the stored code using the activation code existing in the connection wiring L, and activates the switch 3. The logic unit 2c is set to reset the counter 2a when the result of the decoding process is good.

  If the result of the decoding process is not good, the counter 2a is not reset by the logic unit 2c and continues counting until the preset setting is reached. Such a situation occurs, for example, when a panel is removed from the plant or when an activation code is not received within a preset waiting time. At this time, the logic unit 2 c issues a command for opening the switch 3 and inactivating the operation of each panel 1. The switch 3 is, for example, an FET (Field-Effect Transistor).

Therefore, each second unit 10 prohibits the operation of each panel 1 in which the activation code (4) does not exist during the preset period.
The activation code does not need to be particularly complicated, but it is necessary to guarantee the safety, shorten the decoding process executed by the logic unit 2c, and limit the cost. The activation code does not always exist in the connection wiring L, but is output by the code generator 4 with a preset termination added. The code may be encrypted so that it is difficult to decode.

  The 2nd unit 10 which performs the function of a security device with the 1st unit 11 is cooperated with a panel. The second unit 10 can be installed outside or elsewhere for greater safety and can be integrated into the photovoltaic panel.

  As shown in FIG. 2, for example, the second unit 10 is integrated in the photovoltaic panel 1 to eliminate the possibility of unauthorized use or removal of the second unit without damaging the panel. The In any case, this feature can be obtained by installing the second unit 10 in a place where the panel is damaged when the second unit 10 is illegally used.

2 and 3, it should be noted that each photovoltaic power generation panel 1 includes a plurality of photovoltaic power generation cells each indicated by reference numeral 8 and connected in series.
In order to obtain each photovoltaic power generation cell 8, a cylindrical silicon rod having a circular cross section is started. The thin film is obtained from a rod and cut so as to be formed in a square shape with corner portions missing. It helps to optimize the placement of each cell side by side in the panel so that the surface of the panel covered with cells is as large as possible.

  With particular reference to FIG. 3, in order to ensure the continuity of the electrical connection of the entire photovoltaic panel 1, a bypass diode 9 connected in parallel is provided in a group of cells connected in series. This prevents disturbing phenomena due to the presence of leaves, insects or objects that interfere with the photovoltaic cell 8, resulting in an open circuit effect.

In the example shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the second unit 10 is arranged so as not to be bypassed by the diode 9.
In particular, the second unit 10 operates as a closed circuit as a whole when the switch 3 is closed, ie when the panel is connected to the plant and receives an activation code with a preset termination, and the panel is connected to the plant. When not connected, it operates as an open circuit as a whole. This operation is a great advantage during installation of the panel to ensure the installer's safety. Therefore, the security device functions as a device that protects the person responsible for the installer when the panel 1 is installed.

  The security device is supplied by a photovoltaic power generation panel constituting the plant. Security devices do not function when sunlight is not present. When the panel is irradiated with sunlight, the switch 3 is turned on and the counter 2a starts counting. When the logic unit 2c of the panel 1 receives the activation code via the connection line L, the logic unit 2c decodes the activation code, and resets the counter 2a to generate the first activation if the result is good. .

In particular, the second unit 10 operates as a permission switch that authorizes each photovoltaic power generation panel 1 and generates a current.
In particular, with reference to FIG. 4, the photovoltaic power generation panel 1 has a sandwich structure, and has a function of sealing the cells 8 together with a function of guaranteeing adhesion between the lowermost layer 14 formed of a metal plate or glass and each cell 8. An intermediate layer 15 made of EVA (ethyl vinyl acetate) resin and an uppermost layer 12 made of glass are provided. The second unit 10 can be embedded in an intermediate layer formed of EVA, for example.

  Normally, the first unit 11 installed in a masonry structure or in a distribution station and well protected can be stolen with the panel 1, so the panel 1 is protected by other types of security devices. There is a need.

  In the photovoltaic power plant described above, each panel is provided with a unit 10, and the unit 10 operates as a permission switch for generating a current by authorizing each photovoltaic panel 1, and each panel is appropriately controlled. Voltamperometric characteristics can be detected. The operating characteristics of each panel associated with insulation can be used to drive the inverter. This makes it possible to monitor the operation of each panel, maximize the efficiency of the entire photovoltaic power plant, and provide operating information to the remote system.

  In particular, the same security device can be used to selectively activate or deactivate each panel 1 to obtain a voltage or current characteristic, which is a low efficiency panel in the plant. Can be used for diagnostic purposes, for example to interrupt for cleaning or replacement.

  With reference to FIG. 5, the photovoltaic panel area is indicated generally at 20. Each panel in the region 20 includes a local unit that constitutes the above-described security device together with the central unit.

  The monitoring system described here can selectively activate and deactivate each photovoltaic power generation panel 1 in the plant 20. Thereby, the unique activation code corresponding to each panel 1 is different from the activation codes of the other panels. The activation code of each panel 1 is stored in the memory element 2b existing in the second unit 10 linked to the panel 1.

The code generator 4 set in the distribution station 5 periodically generates different activation codes in order to selectively activate or deactivate all the panels 1.
In the normal operation state, the code generator 4 periodically generates all activation codes and outputs an activation code with an arbitrary termination added to the conductor of the connection wiring L. Each activation code activates one panel 1, and each counter 2a starts counting to determine the waiting time for output of the next activation code. Therefore, in normal operation, all the panels 1 are activated to generate energy, which is supplied to the network 30 via the inverter 5. Between the inverter 5 and the network 30, a protection system 28 that is connected to the network 30 in a safe manner is arranged.

  The protection system 28 includes BOS (Balance of System) parameters that take into account all losses due to branches, cables, connections, transducers or weighing devices. For example, if the BOS is 85% (indicating an average of what occurs in a plant that is not particularly complicated), it means that the total loss of solar energy converted to an alternating current amount reaches 15%.

  In such a situation, when the panel 1 is removed from the plant 20, the operation of the panel is interrupted after a short time unless the unit 10 receives the activation code. Therefore, the crime prevention function is maintained.

  Before starting the monitoring session, the system outputs a unique deactivation code without outputting a new activation code or waits until the count of all counters 2a has been counted up. All panels 1 are deactivated.

  When all the panels 1 are inactive, the code generator 4 generates one activation code, outputs the activation code to the conductor of the connection wiring L, and activates the corresponding panel 1. Panel 1 begins operation and generates energy. In this way, only one panel 1 is connected to the inverter 5 at this time.

  Furthermore, the monitoring system can comprise a measuring device 22 for detecting the characteristics of the activated panels, ie for measuring the voltage and current supplied from each panel 1 to the inverter 5.

  The information collected from each panel 1 is processed by the processor 24, which can detect all voltage and current characteristics. For example, all the characteristics of all the regions are represented by the total value of the characteristics of each panel 1.

  In order to improve the scanning speed of the monitoring of the whole plant, the monitoring system is activated as soon as the measuring operation carried out by the device 22 is completed without waiting for the passage of the cycle time set by the corresponding counter 2a. An inactive signal can be output to the panel.

  The processor 24 outputs the above characteristics to the inverter 5, and the inverter 5 controls the operating point of the system, that is, by changing the input impedance that the inverter 5 provides to the region 20. Efficiency can be optimized.

In addition, a peripheral device 32 is provided which is connected to the processor 24 and allows the operator to interact with the monitoring system.
In a preferred embodiment, a photovoltaic sensor 26 is further provided, which is oriented in the same manner as the panel 1 and uses a light detection element similar to that used in the panel 1. , Operates to generate information detected by supplying a comparison period. In particular, when the sun is covered with clouds at a certain moment, it is natural that a decrease in energy generation is expected. Therefore, the sensor 26 operates to properly recognize these situations. Consequently, in such a situation, the low efficiency of the panel is considered to be caused by the weather rather than the manufacturing process of the panel itself, and no physical intervention is required for panel 1 in this problem.

  Available in the system is a layout or list, which is the basis for the activation code and allows the determination of the physical location of each panel in the plant. Thus, if it is confirmed that there is a problem (for example, low efficiency) in any panel, it is possible to perform material intervention on the panel itself.

  Therefore, as long as the activation code serves as the activation code for the security device, the first is protection, the second is two different functions for the unique identification of the panel for the surveillance system I will provide a.

  In FIG. 6, two series panels 1 connected in parallel with the connection wiring L are shown, and the panels are connected in parallel with respect to the connection wiring L. In each series panel, the panels are connected to each other in a series configuration. As shown in FIG. 6, each panel 1 is associated with a bypass diode 9, which is connected in parallel with the panel itself and is generated upstream of the panel when the panel is deactivated or destroyed. Ensure that current bypasses the panel.

  As already described above, each panel 1 includes a unit 10 therein, and when the unit 10 is not periodically activated in response to the activation code output to the connection wiring L, the switch 3 is used. Configured to block panel operation. In another embodiment, the activation code can be output to the dedicated wiring A.

  The branch block 40 is disposed between the connection wiring L and each panel 1, and the code supplied by the unit 11 passes through the branch block 40. In particular, with reference to FIG. 1, the branch block 40 includes an inductor 6 that acts to prevent a signal generated by the code generator 4 from propagating to the photovoltaic panel 1, and a high frequency generated by the code generator 4. And a capacitor 7 intended to output a signal to the logic unit 2c.

7-9, three different monitoring system embodiments are shown.
7 to 9, members, elements, and configurations are the same as or equivalent to those already described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6, and thus are denoted by the same reference numerals, and corresponding descriptions are not repeatedly described.

The branch block 40 can extract the energy supplied to the unit 10 from the activation signal.
Furthermore, the branch block 40 may be configured to directly supply the unit 10 via the wiring 19 in the panel 1 using the energy supplied by the cell 8. In this case, the cell 8 is irradiated with sunlight or needs to receive energy from the branch block 40 that extracts energy propagating the activation code from the signal.

  Referring to FIG. 7, the activation signal can be output to the dedicated wiring A. The wiring A is a closed circuit having an impedance Z characteristic, and prevents a signal reflection phenomenon. In a specific example, the branch block 40 includes a demodulator 17, and the demodulator 17 includes a high-impedance input terminal for demodulating a signal propagated to the dedicated wiring A.

  Alternatively, the activation signal can be transmitted at a high frequency as indicated by reference numeral 8. In this case, the demodulator 17 receives a wireless signal via the antenna 27, and supply to the circuit of the unit 10 must be extracted from the panel 1 via the wiring 19.

  Finally, in FIG. 9, the signal is propagated directly to the power line. In this case, the element 17 is a transmitter that transfers the AC component without restriction and takes in information (that is, a high-frequency signal). In this type of configuration, it is necessary to provide a capacitor 29 connected in parallel with the bypass diode in order to propagate a high-frequency signal. In the case of a high frequency signal, the capacitor operates as a closed circuit.

  Further, the monitoring system may be configured to function by a combined means, i.e., the monitoring system performs the monitoring function by deactivating one panel once and maintains the process of energy generation. .

  With reference to “one embodiment” in the description herein, it is intended to indicate the specific shapes, structures, and features described with respect to the embodiment including at least one embodiment. Hence, phrases such as “in one embodiment” present at various places in the specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the specific shapes, structures, and features in at least one or more embodiments can be appropriately combined.

  The references used in this application are only suitably applied and therefore do not define the scope of protection or the scope of the embodiments.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Solar power generation panel, 2a ... Counter element, 2b ... Memory element, 2c ... Logic unit, 3 ... Switch, 4 ... Activation code, 5 ... Distribution station, 8 ... Photovoltaic cell, 9 ... Bypass diode, 10 ... 2nd unit (security and monitoring system), 11 ... 1st unit (security and monitoring system), 22 ... measuring device, 26 ... photovoltaic power generation sensor, A ... wiring, L ... connection wiring, Z ... impedance

Claims (15)

A crime prevention and monitoring system (10, 11) for a plurality of photovoltaic panels (1),
In the monitoring system (10, 11), the panel (1) is connected to the distribution station (5) via the connection wiring (L).
A first unit (11) configured to generate an activation code (4) in cooperation with the distribution station (5);
A plurality of second units (10) associated with the panel (1), wherein each of the second units (10) is configured such that when the activation code (4) is absent during a preset period, each panel ( The plurality of second elements configured to deactivate the operation of 1) and selectively activated by the unique activation code (4) generated by the first unit (11) A security and surveillance system (10, 11) comprising a unit (10). The first unit (11)
An activation code generator (4) for generating a plurality of different activation codes (4), adding a preset termination to the plurality of different activation codes (4), and outputting them to the connection wiring (L) Security and surveillance system (10, 11) according to claim 1, comprising. Each of the second units (10)
A memory element (2b) configured to store therein the activation code (4) unique to each panel (1);
A counter element (a) configured to count the waiting time of the unique activation code (4);
The activation code (4) existing on the connection line (L) is processed using the activation code (4) stored in the memory element (2b), and decoding processing is good. A logic unit (2c) configured to reset the counter element (2a) in the event of a negative result;
A switch (3) controlled by the logic unit (2c) and configured to deactivate the operation of the panel (1) when the counter element (2a) reaches a preset setting. Crime prevention and surveillance system (10, 11). The activation code generator (4) of the first unit (11) comprises:
Configured to generate an inactivation code,
The logic unit (2c) of each second unit (10) is:
4. The crime prevention device according to claim 3, configured to perform control to open the corresponding switch (3) to deactivate the operation of the panel (1) upon receiving the deactivation code. Monitoring system (10, 11). A measuring device (22) for detecting voltage and current characteristics of each activated panel (1);
A processor module (24) configured to detect overall characteristics from the characteristics of each panel (1) detected by the measurement device (22) and to output the overall characteristics to the distribution station (5). Including
The distribution station (5)
The crime prevention and monitoring system (10, 11) according to claim 4, wherein the input impedance is changed according to the overall characteristics. A photovoltaic power generation sensor oriented in the same manner as the panel (1),
Security and surveillance system (10, 6) according to claim 5, comprising the photovoltaic sensor (26) comprising the same photovoltaic elements as the panel (1) for supplying additional information regarding the weather conditions of the installation site. 11). The memory element (2b) is a ROM,
The switch (3) is a FET,
The photovoltaic panel (1) includes a plurality of photovoltaic cells (8) connected in series with each other,
The crime prevention and monitoring system (10, 11) according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the second unit (10) is installed between two photovoltaic power generation cells (8). Each said photovoltaic power generation panel (1)
A plurality of bypass diodes (9) connected in parallel to the plurality of photovoltaic cells (8);
Each of the second units (10)
Security and surveillance system (10, 11) according to claim 7, arranged so as not to be bypassed by said bypass diode (9). Each of the second units (10)
The crime prevention and monitoring system (10, 11) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, provided for each solar power generation panel. The activation code (4) is:
Supplied to a dedicated wiring (A) closed to a unique impedance (Z) state that prevents reflection phenomena,
Supplied by high frequency signal,
Or the crime prevention and monitoring system (10, 11) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, which is directly supplied to the connection wiring (L). The distribution station (5)
Security and surveillance system (10, 11) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising an inverter unit with a security device based on GPS technology. A method (10, 11) for monitoring a plurality of photovoltaic panels (1) connected to a distribution station (5) via connection wiring (L),
Linking the first unit (11) with the distribution station (5), wherein the first unit is configured to generate an activation code (4); The step of linking,
The step of coordinating each panel (1) with the second unit (10), wherein the second unit (10) operates each panel (1) when the activation code is absent during a preset period. And each panel (1) that can be selectively activated by the unique activation code (4) generated by the first unit (11). And (10) a step of cooperating with the method.   Further comprising inactivating all the panels (1) by supplying an inactivation code, or interrupting the generation and supply of the activation code (4) at any time period; The method of claim 12. Selectively activating each panel (1) by outputting a corresponding unique activation code (4) to the connection wiring (L);
14. The method of claim 13, further comprising detecting (22) voltage and current characteristics of each activated panel (1).   The method further comprises the step of supplying an inactivation signal for inactivating each of the activated panels (1) after measuring the characteristic of each of the activated panels (1). Item 15. The method according to Item 14.

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