JP2013235977A - Solar battery panel - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a solar battery panel that can restrain theft by preventing unauthorised use.SOLUTION: A solar battery panel including solar battery cells includes: output switch means able to switch between connection and disconnection of a path to output power generated by the solar battery cells; communication means for performing communication with an external device; authentication means for implementing authentication verification on the basis of authentication information acquired from the external device by the communication means; and first control means for controlling the output switch means from a disconnection state to a connection state. The first control means changes the output switch means from the disconnection state to the connection state if authentication is successful in the authentication verification by the authentication means.

Description

  The present invention relates to a solar battery panel including a solar battery cell that converts light energy into electric energy.

  In recent years, interest in natural energy has increased, and solar cell panels that convert light energy such as sunlight into electrical energy have been put into practical use. Since this solar cell panel is installed outdoors and its state is difficult to confirm, a method has been proposed that allows the state of the solar cell panel to be confirmed by an external device. For example, in the following patent document, in a solar cell module having at least one or more solar cell elements, at least one electrical parameter detection unit of the solar cell element is communicated according to the output of the electrical parameter detection unit. The structure which has the communication means to perform is disclosed.

  In addition, there is a risk of electric shock if the terminal for taking out the power generated by the solar cell panel is touched by mistake. In particular, the direct current output from the solar cell panel is more dangerous than the alternating current, and there is a risk of electrocution even at about 70V, for example. Therefore, people usually use cables and connectors to prevent people from touching the terminals, but the solar panel collapses due to construction or maintenance of the cable, or due to an earthquake, etc. There is a risk of electric shock when the surface is exposed. Even if the terminals are protected, the risk of electric shock increases when the solar cell panel or the hand is wet with rain.

  Against this background, various methods relating to safety measures for solar cell panels have been proposed. For example, in Patent Document 2 below, power generated by a solar cell is consumed via a terminal box and a power cord. In the solar cell device to be supplied to the part, an operating piece capable of short-circuiting between both terminals of the terminal box, and operating the operating piece by movement or detachment from the installation position of the solar cell, between the two terminals The structure provided with the safety device which consists of the operation wire which short-circuits is disclosed.

  Patent Document 3 listed below is a method for controlling a solar power generation apparatus having a solar cell array in which a plurality of strings in which a plurality of solar cell modules are connected in series is connected in parallel, and the output current of each of the plurality of strings is detected. And the structure which controls the switch for short-circuiting the output terminal of each of these strings based on the detected output current is disclosed.

  Patent Document 4 listed below is a solar cell module having a photovoltaic element and an output terminal for outputting electric power generated by the photovoltaic element, and controls output to the output terminal. There is disclosed a configuration in which at least one output opening / closing means is provided, and at least one of the output opening / closing means is arranged at a position where the photovoltaic element is electrically divided.

JP 2000-269531 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 08-316517 JP 2001-85716 A JP 2000-114567 A

  A solar cell panel is used by being fixed to a roof of a building with a metal fitting. In addition, when the solar cell panel is used as a power source for a device that operates outdoors (for example, an illuminating lamp or an electric vehicle), the solar cell panel is used by being fixed to a support for fixing the device or a frame of the device with a metal fitting.

  However, since the measures against theft of solar panels are limited to physical prevention measures using special lock screws and anti-theft hardware, they are always exposed to high theft risks, and stolen solar panels are illegally used. There is a problem that it ends up. In particular, when the solar cell panel is used as a power source for a device that operates outdoors, the above problem becomes significant because it is easy to enter and carry out.

  This invention is made | formed in view of the said problem, The main objective is to provide the solar cell panel which can suppress a theft by preventing unauthorized use.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide a solar cell panel that can reduce the risk of electric shock and the like.

  In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides a solar panel including solar cells, an output switch means capable of switching between connection and disconnection of a path for outputting power generated by the solar cells, an external device, Communication means for performing communication, authentication means for performing authentication verification based on authentication information acquired from the external device by the communication means, and first control means for controlling the output switch means from a shut-off state to a connected state The first control means changes the output switch means from the shut-off state to the connected state when authentication is established by authentication verification by the authentication means.

  According to the solar cell panel of the present invention, it is possible to suppress theft by preventing unauthorized use, and to reduce the risk of electric shock and the like.

  The reason is that the output switch means for switching the output ON / OFF to the solar cell panel, the communication means for communicating with the external device, the authentication means for performing the authentication verification based on the information acquired from the external device, and the authentication means This is because it includes first control means for changing the output switch means from the OFF state to the ON state when the authentication by is established. Further, the second control means is provided for changing the output switch means from the ON state to the OFF state based on a specific condition different from the authentication verification by the authentication means. Further, the output switch means is incorporated in the structure of the solar cell panel.

  In this way, by requiring authentication when taking out the generated power, it is possible to restrict the use by other than a legitimate user and to exert a crime prevention effect. In addition, since it automatically shifts to a state where the extraction of generated power is prohibited and requires re-authentication, a further crime prevention effect can be exhibited. Also, by incorporating the output switch means inside the structure of the solar cell panel so that it is not exposed to the outside, it is possible to reliably prevent unauthorized use and prevent the risk of accidental contact with the terminal. Can do.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the conventional solar cell panel. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the solar cell panel which concerns on the 1st Example of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows operation | movement of the solar cell panel of the structure of FIG. It is a figure which shows the connection example (in the case of one solar cell panel) of the solar cell panel which concerns on the 1st Example of this invention. It is a figure which shows the example of a connection of the solar cell panel which concerns on 1st Example of this invention (when a solar cell panel is multiple pieces). It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the solar cell panel which concerns on the 2nd Example of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows operation | movement of the solar cell panel of the structure of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows an example of the specific structure of the solar cell panel which concerns on the 2nd Example of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows operation | movement of the solar cell panel of the structure of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the other example of the specific structure of the solar cell panel which concerns on the 2nd Example of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows operation | movement of the solar cell panel of the structure of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the other example of the specific structure of the solar cell panel which concerns on the 2nd Example of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows operation | movement of the solar cell panel of the structure of FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the solar cell panel which concerns on the 3rd Example of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows operation | movement of the solar cell panel of the structure of FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of a connection of the solar cell panel and external device which concern on the 4th Example of this invention. It is a flowchart figure which shows an example of operation | movement of the solar cell panel of a structure of FIG. 16, and an external device. It is a flowchart figure which shows the other example of operation | movement of the solar cell panel of a structure of FIG. 16, and an external device. It is the schematic which shows the general structure of a solar cell panel. It is the schematic which shows the structure of the solar cell panel which concerns on the 5th Example of this invention.

  As shown in the background art, conventional solar panels are physically protected by special lock screws and anti-theft hardware as anti-theft measures, but this method destroys the lock screws and anti-theft hardware. Then, the solar cell panel can be removed, and the removed solar cell panel can be used as it is, so that theft could not be effectively suppressed.

  Therefore, in one embodiment of the present invention, instead of physical theft prevention measures or in addition to physical theft prevention measures, ON control of generated power output is performed by authentication such as ID verification, The power generation output is controlled to be off when the above condition is satisfied, re-authentication is requested, and unauthorized use of the solar cell panel is prevented to suppress theft.

  Specifically, output switch means (for example, a relay switch such as a solenoid relay), communication means (for example, a relay switch such as a solenoid relay) for connecting and shutting off the output of the power generated by the solar cells to the outside of the solar battery panel. For example, power line communication, wireless communication, wired communication), an authentication unit that performs verification with an authentication key set for each solar cell panel, and a first that controls the output switch unit to an ON state based on the authentication result of the authentication unit And a second control means for controlling the output switch means to be turned off based on a predetermined condition (for example, turning off the power generation stop timing at night). At least the output switch means is incorporated in the solar cell panel.

  Thus, since the authentication means is incorporated in the solar cell panel and the authentication is not established, the power cannot be taken out, so that the antitheft effect can be exhibited. In addition, the power switch becomes OFF (the sun goes down), the predetermined time elapses, the predetermined time is reached, etc. as a trigger, the output switch means is turned off, and re-authentication is required. An inhibitory effect can be exhibited. In addition, by incorporating the output switch means inside the solar cell panel, remodeling that short-circuits the output switch means is prevented, and by preventing the output switch means from being exposed to the outside, it is possible to prevent electric shock and ensure safety. be able to.

  In order to describe the above-described embodiment of the present invention in more detail, a solar cell panel according to a first example of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a conventional solar cell panel 20. A main component of the solar battery panel 20 is a solar battery cell 21 that is a power generation element. In general, a plurality of solar cells 21 are mounted on the solar cell panel 20, and the solar cells 21 are connected in series and parallel in the solar cell panel 20 to increase the voltage or current to a desired level. The electric power generated in the solar cells 21 connected in series and parallel can be taken out of the solar cell panel 20 from an output terminal called a terminal. In addition, in order to prevent destruction of the solar cell panel 20 when connected in parallel, a backflow prevention measure is necessary. Therefore, a backflow prevention diode 22 is provided immediately before the output terminal (usually the positive terminal). There are many.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of the solar cell panel 10 of the present embodiment, in which the upper side is a schematic diagram and the lower side is a block diagram. The solar cell panel 10 of this embodiment is connected to / blocked from the path for outputting the power generated by the solar cell 11 (output) in addition to the components of the normal solar cell panel (the solar cell 11 and the backflow prevention diode 12). Output switch means 13 for switching ON / OFF), communication means 14 for communicating with an external apparatus, authentication means 15 for performing authentication verification based on information obtained through communication with the external apparatus, and authentication means And first control means 16 for controlling ON / OFF of the output switch means 13 based on the authentication result of 15.

  The output switch means 13 is a component called an electromagnetic relay or an electromagnetic switch that can withstand ON / OFF switching of a relatively large current, for example, and includes a mechanical switch contact and a solenoid that moves the contact. In the figure, the output switch means 13 shows a “single-cut” structure that can cut off only the positive output terminal side, but a “double-cut” structure that can cut off both the positive and negative terminals at the same time. Good.

  The communication unit 14 has a function of receiving an instruction to change the state of the output switch unit 13 from the outside and receiving authentication information from the outside when executing the state change of the output switch unit 13. As a method for performing data communication with the outside, a known wired communication or wireless communication technique may be used. Moreover, since the solar cell panel 10 is normally connected to a device called a power conditioner, it may be connected with a dedicated wired cable connected to the power conditioner, or for transmission of generated power already connected. A known “power line communication” technique in which a high-frequency signal is superimposed on the power cable may be used. The communication destination is not limited to the power conditioner, but may be a control panel that displays the amount of power generation or other dedicated controllers. In addition, when using wireless communication, a dedicated controller terminal having a wireless communication function may be used, or a smartphone or portable terminal that can handle general wireless communication (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth (registered trademark), ZigBee, 3G). It may be realized by installing dedicated application software.

  The authentication unit 15 has a function of determining whether or not the authentication has been established using the authentication information received by the communication unit 14 (such as a password or identification information of the solar battery panel 10) as an authentication key. From the viewpoint of theft control, a strong communication protocol that is difficult to be hacked is effective, so communication corresponding to an algorithm using a hash function called SHA-1 is ideal. Information necessary for authentication such as passwords and IDs recorded in the solar cell panel 10 may be information unique to each panel, or may be the same information for a plurality of panels or connected. The information may be common to all panels.

  The first control unit 16 has a function of controlling the ON / OFF state of the output switch unit 13 based on the authentication result of the authentication unit 15. Further, a driver that generates a drive current for changing the output switch means 13 from the ON state to the OFF state or from the OFF state to the ON state in response to the state change instruction of the output switch means 13 acquired from the communication means 14. It has a circuit.

  Note that at least one of the communication unit 14, the authentication unit 15, and the first control unit 16 may be configured to be driven by power generated by the solar battery cell 11, or may be configured to include a dedicated primary battery. A configuration may be adopted in which power is supplied from outside the solar cell panel 10 using a dedicated cable or the like. When using the electric power generated by the solar battery cell 11, there is a restriction that it can function only during the power generation by the solar battery cell 11 (in the daytime). Therefore, there are few inconveniences.

  The functions of the authentication unit 15 and the first control unit 16 may be realized by hardware (circuit) or a program that operates on a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

  Next, the operation of the solar cell panel 10 having the configuration of FIG. 2 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, the communication means 14 of the solar battery panel 10 waits for data reception from the external device (S101), and when receiving data addressed to the own panel from the external device (Yes in S101), the received data is transferred to the authentication means 15. To do.

  The authentication unit 15 performs authentication verification based on the received data (S102). For example, the establishment / non-establishment of authentication is determined based on whether the data includes a preset correct authentication password or unique ID information assigned to the own solar cell panel 10. When the authentication is not established (No in S103), the authentication means 15 (or the first control means 16) notifies the authentication failure to the external device that is the data transmission source via the communication means 14 (S107). On the other hand, when the authentication is established (Yes in S103), the instruction content included in the data is transferred to the first control means 16.

  The first control means 16 drives the output switch means 13 according to the data instruction content received from the authentication means 15 (S104). For example, when the output switch means 13 of the solar cell panel 10 is currently in an OFF state and an instruction to change to the ON state is received, the output switch means 13 is driven to be in the ON state (S105), and the solar cell The power generated by the cell 11 is set to a state where it can be output outside the solar battery panel 10. Moreover, when the output switch means 13 of the solar cell panel 10 is currently in the ON state and an instruction to change to the OFF state is received, the output switch means 13 is driven to be in the OFF state (S105), and the solar cell The power generated by the cell 11 is not output to the outside of the solar panel 10. If power is not output, there is no risk of electric shock, and maintenance work can be performed safely.

  Here, since the first control means 16 drives the output switch means 13 from the OFF state to the ON state and from the ON state to the OFF state, the first control means 16 is configured to perform control according to the data instruction content. When the switch unit 13 is driven from the OFF state to the ON state only, control may be performed according to the result of authentication verification by the authentication unit 15.

  Thereafter, the authentication unit 15 (or the first control unit 16) notifies the establishment of authentication to the external device that is the data transmission source via the communication unit 14 (S106).

  Thus, according to the solar cell panel 10 of the present embodiment, it is necessary to know the password and ID in order to turn the output switch means 13 on, so that the solar cell panel 10 is temporarily stolen. However, if the output switch means 13 is in the OFF state when stolen, the solar cell panel 10 cannot be used, and as a result, theft can be suppressed.

  Next, a connection example of the solar cell panel 10 of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 shows a configuration in the case of one solar cell panel 10. As an example of connection in this case, there is a case where the solar cell panel 10 is mounted on the roof of an electric automobile.

  The DC power generated by the solar cell panel 10 is input to the power conditioner 30, converted into a stable voltage suitable for charging the load 50 such as the motor of the electric automobile and the battery 40, and output. As a function of the power conditioner 30, not only voltage conversion but also a function of performing optimal control called MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) control so that the solar cell panel 10 can generate power most efficiently.

  In the figure, it is assumed that the power generation output ON / OFF instruction of the solar battery panel 10 is transmitted from the power conditioner 30, but it can also be transmitted from an operation panel or the like in the electric vehicle.

  FIG. 5 shows a configuration in the case where a plurality of solar cell panels 10 are provided. An example of connection in this case is a solar power generation system installed on the roof of a house. In the figure, there is shown a case where the array composed of a plurality of solar cell panels 10 is composed of three systems.

  The DC power generated by the solar cell panel 10 is collected by a device called a connection box 60 and then input to the power conditioner 30 and is consumed by a load 50 such as a household electric appliance in the house. The amount of power that is not consumed by the house can be used to charge the battery 40 for home use, or can be sold to an electric power company via the power sale meter 70. The function of the power conditioner 30 is not only to convert direct current into alternating current that can be used in the home, but also to perform MPPT control so that the solar cell panel 10 can generate power most efficiently.

  In the figure, it is assumed that the ON / OFF instruction of the power generation output of the solar battery panel 10 is transmitted from the power conditioner 30, but it is transmitted from the connection box 60 or a specific household electric appliance. You can also send from.

  Next, a solar cell panel according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of the solar cell panel 10 of the present example, where the upper side is a schematic diagram and the lower side is a block diagram. In addition to the function of ON / OFF control of the output switch means 13 by the communication means 14, the authentication means 15, and the first control means 16, in this embodiment, the output control means 13 is further turned off by the second control means 17. A control function is added.

  The second control means 17 has only a function of changing the output switch means 13 from the ON state to the OFF state, and does not have a function of changing from the OFF state to the ON state. That is, it does not function substantially when the output switch means 13 is already in the OFF state. Further, the second control means 17 does not have a means for receiving an instruction from the outside of the solar cell panel 10, and the output switch means 13 is controlled based on specific conditions (details will be described later) in the panel. Change from ON to OFF. Similar to the first control unit 16, the second control unit 17 includes a driver circuit that generates a drive current for changing the output switch unit 13 from the ON state to the OFF state.

  Note that the second control means 17 may be configured to be driven by the power generated by the solar battery cells 11 as well as other means, or may be configured to include a dedicated primary battery, or a dedicated cable or the like may be used. And it is good also as a structure which receives electric power supply from the outside of the solar cell panel 10, and drives. Further, the function of the second control means 17 may be realized by hardware (circuit) or a program operating on the CPU.

  Next, operation | movement of the solar cell panel 10 of a present Example is demonstrated with reference to the flowchart figure of FIG. In the following description, it is assumed that the output switch means 13 of the solar cell panel 10 is turned on in advance.

  First, the 2nd control means 17 mounted in the solar cell panel 10 monitors the desired conditions mentioned later (S201). When the desired condition is satisfied (Yes in S202), the second control unit 17 immediately changes the output switch unit 13 from the ON state to the OFF state (S203, S204), and ends the series of operations.

  With this operation, the solar battery panel 10 is in a state where it cannot output power outside the panel even if the solar battery cell 11 is generating power. And in order to output the electric power of the solar cell panel 10, it becomes necessary to change the output switch means 13 to the ON state using the functions of the communication means 14, the authentication means 15, and the first control means 16.

  Here, although the authorized user can implement the authentication of the solar cell panel 10, for example, a third person who stole the solar cell panel 10 cannot implement the power generation function of the solar cell panel 10. Thus, since the solar cell panel 10 equipped with the function of the present embodiment cannot be used even if it is stolen, it is possible to effectively suppress theft by making this function known.

  Hereinafter, specific examples of desired conditions will be described.

  First, as a first specific example, a case will be described in which the second control unit 17 uses the passage of time as a trigger for controlling the output switch unit 13 from the ON state to the OFF state. The configuration of the solar cell panel 10 in that case is as shown in FIG. 8, and the second control means 17 includes a timer means 17a. In the figure, the timer means 17a is shown as being taken into the second control means 17, but may be configured separately from the second control means 17.

  The timer unit 17a has a function of a countdown timer, detects the passage of a predetermined time from a predetermined time point, and instructs the second control unit 17 to activate the function. In response to the instruction from the timer means 17a, the second control means 17 immediately changes the output switch means 13 to the OFF state if the output switch means 13 is in the ON state.

  The counting of the timer means 17a may be started from the time when the output switch means 13 is changed from the OFF state to the ON state, or from the time when the solar battery cell 10 starts power generation or stops power generation. May be. At this time, the information for starting counting may be obtained from the first control means 16 in the former case, and the output of the solar battery cell 11 may be monitored in the latter case.

  The operation of the solar cell panel 10 having the above configuration will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Also in this flow, it is assumed that the output switch means 13 of the solar cell panel 10 is in an ON state in advance.

  When the output switch means 13 of the solar cell panel 10 is in the ON state, the timer means 17a in the solar cell panel 10 waits for a count start instruction (S301). As described above, the start of the count may be a timing at which the first control unit 16 changes the output switch unit 13 to the ON state, or a timing at which a change in the power generation amount of the solar battery cell 11 is detected, for example, The timing when the power generation amount becomes zero (that is, the power generation stop due to sunset) and the timing when the power generation amount does not become zero (that is, the power generation start due to sunrise) may be used. And the timer means 17a performs a count until the preset time passes (S302). The count may be counted up or counted down.

  When the counting is completed (Yes in S303), the timer unit 17a notifies the second control unit 17 of the completion of the counting. Upon receipt of the count end notification, the second control means 17 immediately changes the output switch means 13 from the ON state to the OFF state (S304, S305), and ends the series of operations.

  Next, as a second specific example, a case where time is used as a trigger for the second control unit 17 to control the output switch unit 13 from the ON state to the OFF state will be described. The configuration of the solar cell panel 10 in that case is as shown in FIG. 10, and the second control means 17 includes a clock means 17b for managing time. In the figure, the clock means 17b is shown as being taken into the second control means 17, but it may be configured separately from the second control means 17.

  The clock means 17b has a function of managing the current time, detects the arrival of a predetermined time, and instructs the second control means 17 to activate the function. In response to the instruction from the clock unit 17b, the second control unit 17 immediately changes the output switch unit 13 to the OFF state if the output switch unit 13 is in the ON state.

  The set time of the clock means 17b may be a predetermined time every 24 hours determined in advance, a predetermined time on a predetermined day of the week, or a predetermined date and time such as once a month or once a year. It is good. From the viewpoint of suppressing theft, the set time of the clock means 17b is preferably an unchangeable time incorporated in advance at the time of manufacture, but may be changed by a changing means (not shown). The clock means 17b may be operated by a primary battery that can operate for about 10 to 20 years, or may be operated by a secondary battery that stores power generated by the solar battery cell 11. It is preferable that the panel 10 is operable until the lifetime is reached. Moreover, it is preferable that the timepiece means 17b is equipped with the function of a radio timepiece so that a time lag may not arise.

  The operation of the solar cell panel 10 having the above configuration will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Also in this flow, it is assumed that the output switch means 13 of the solar cell panel 10 is in an ON state in advance.

  When the operation is started, the clock unit 17b monitors until a predetermined time and date are reached (S401). When the set time or date / time is reached (Yes in S402), the clock unit 17b notifies the second control unit 17 of the arrival of the time. Upon receiving the notification of time arrival, the second control means 17 immediately changes the output switch means 13 from the ON state to the OFF state (S403, S404) and ends the series of operations.

  Next, as a third specific example, a case will be described in which the second control unit 17 uses the power generation amount as a trigger for controlling the output switch unit 13 from the ON state to the OFF state. The configuration of the solar cell panel 10 in that case is as shown in FIG. 12, and the second control means 17 includes the power generation detection means 17c. In the figure, the power generation detection means 17c is shown as being taken into the second control means 17, but may be configured separately from the second control means 17.

  The power generation detection unit 17c has a function of measuring the power generation amount of the solar battery cell 11 or determining whether or not power generation is performed, and instructs the second control unit 17 to activate the function when a predetermined power generation amount is detected. In response to the instruction from the power generation detection unit 17c, the second control unit 17 immediately changes the output switch unit 13 to the OFF state if the output switch unit 13 is in the ON state.

  The timing at which the power generation detection means 17c activates the function of the second control means 17 is “the power generation amount per unit time has decreased to a certain value or less”, “the total power generation amount has reached a certain value or more”, Timings such as “power generation started (power generation amount ≠ 0)” and “power generation stopped (power generation amount = 0)” can be used. This power generation amount can be determined by the product of voltage and current, but in this embodiment, it is only necessary to determine whether power generation is being performed. You can also. In addition, when a change in power generation is used as a trigger, it is not necessary to add additional functions such as the timer means 17a and the clock means 17b, and no backup means such as a storage battery is required. It can be said that it is a proper configuration.

  The operation of the solar cell panel 10 having the above configuration will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Also in this flow, it is assumed that the output switch means 13 of the solar cell panel 10 is in an ON state in advance.

  When the operation is started, the power generation detection unit 17c monitors the change in the amount of power generated by the solar battery cell 11 (S501). When a predetermined change in the power generation amount is detected (Yes in S502), the second control means 17 is notified that the change in the power generation amount has been detected. Upon receiving the notification that the change in the amount of power generation has been detected, the second control means 17 immediately drives the output switch means 13 from the ON state to the OFF state (S503, S504), and ends the series of operations.

  In the above description, the elapsed time, time, and power generation amount are exemplified as triggers for the second control unit 17 to control the output switch unit 13 to the OFF state. For example, stress generated when the solar cell panel 10 is removed. The output switch means 13 may be controlled to be in an OFF state using a trigger or vibration as a trigger, and even with this configuration, unauthorized use of the solar cell panel 10 can be prevented, and dangers such as electric shock can be avoided.

  Next, a solar cell panel according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the configuration of the solar cell panel 10 of the present example, in which the upper side is a schematic diagram and the lower side is a block diagram. The difference from the second embodiment is that when the second control means 17 changes the output switch means 13 from the ON state to the OFF state, the authentication history stored in the authentication means 15 is erased, and the first control Before the ON / OFF control of the output switch means 13 by the means 16, it is to return to a state that requires establishment of authentication.

  That is, when the authentication history is stored, once authentication is established, there is a possibility that the output control means 13 can be freely controlled by the first control means 16 without following the authentication procedure. Therefore, by intentionally deleting the authentication history and setting it to the unauthenticated state, use of the solar cell panel 10 by a person other than the authorized user who knows the authentication information is restricted, and theft is surely suppressed.

  Hereinafter, operation | movement of the solar cell panel 10 of a present Example is demonstrated with reference to the flowchart figure of FIG. In the following description, it is assumed that the output switch means 13 of the solar cell panel 10 is turned on in advance.

  First, the second control means 17 mounted in the solar cell panel 10 monitors desired conditions (S601). When the desired condition is satisfied (Yes in S602), the second control unit 17 immediately changes the output switch unit 13 from the ON state to the OFF state (S603, S604). Further, when the output switch means 13 is controlled, the authentication means 15 is notified of the deletion of the authentication history. Upon receiving the notification, the authentication unit 15 deletes the authentication history, returns from the authenticated state to the unauthenticated state (S605), and ends the series of operations.

  By this operation, once the output switch means 13 is turned off, authentication must be performed again using the authentication means 15, so that unauthorized use by a third party who stole the solar cell panel 10 is ensured. Can be prevented, and the antitheft effect can be exhibited.

  Next, a solar cell panel according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

  As described above, since the output switch means 13 is automatically turned off by the second control means 17, in order for a legitimate user to extract power from the solar cell panel 10, authentication is performed and the output switch means 13 is output. Needs to be changed to ON state. At that time, if the solar cell panel 10 is not in a state where power can be generated, it is meaningless to change the output switch means 13 to the ON state. Therefore, the user determines whether the solar cell panel 10 is in a state where power can be generated. It is necessary to confirm.

  However, when the output switch means 13 is in the OFF state, no power is output from the solar battery panel 10 even if the solar battery cell 11 starts generating power. Therefore, even if the external device monitors the output of the solar battery panel 10, As a result, it is impossible to determine whether the battery panel 10 is in a state in which power generation is possible, and as a result, there arises a problem that it is not possible to grasp the timing for sending a generation output start instruction to the solar cell panel 10.

  To solve this problem, for example, a method of repeatedly communicating with the solar cell panel 10 at a constant period from the external device side and confirming a communication response from the solar cell panel 10 can be considered, but this method increases unnecessary communication. End up. Therefore, in the present embodiment, in order to be able to change the output switch means 13 to the ON state at an appropriate timing, the external device (power) from the solar battery panel 10 side at the timing when the solar battery cell 11 can generate power. A request for performing an authentication operation is issued to a dedicated device such as a conditioner, a generated power monitor panel, a connection box, or a remote controller. In this method, the external device only needs to wait until receiving a request, and it is not necessary to confirm a communication response. Therefore, useless communication can be suppressed.

  FIG. 16 shows a connection example between the solar cell panel 10 and the external device for realizing the above method. The plurality of solar cell panels 10 of the present embodiment are connected to a specific external device (herein referred to as a power conditioner 30). The power conditioner 30 includes a power adjustment block 31 and has a function of taking in the output generated by each solar cell panel 10 and converting the direct current into alternating current and outputting it to a power consuming device. In addition, the power conditioner 30 includes a communication block 32 for communicating with the solar cell panel 10, and can communicate with each solar cell panel 10 individually. Note that the power line may be used for communication, or may be wired or wirelessly different from the power line.

  Operations of the solar cell panel 10 and the external device (power conditioner 30) having the above-described configuration will be described with reference to a flowchart of FIG.

  When both the solar cell panel 10 and the external device start operation, the external device side waits for an authentication request from the solar cell panel 10. The solar cell panel 10 is in a state where the output switch means 13 is in an OFF state and output is prohibited until authentication is established. In this state, when the solar battery 11 resumes power generation due to sunrise or the like, the communication means 14, the authentication means 15, the first control means 16, and the output switch means 13 in the solar battery panel 10 receive power from the solar battery cell 11. When it is supplied, it is ready for operation.

  When in an operable state, the first control means 16 of the solar panel 10 transmits an authentication request to the external device. When the external device receives the authentication request, the external device notifies the solar cell panel 10 of the start of authentication communication. When solar cell panel 10 receives the notification of authentication communication start, it verifies the authentication information (authentication key) included in the notification with the authentication information (authentication key) stored in advance in solar cell panel 10. If the authentication is not established, a response indicating that the authentication is not established is sent, and thereafter, even if a power generation output instruction is received, it is not executed.

  When the authentication is established, the solar battery panel 10 notifies the external device that the authentication is established, and waits for a power generation output start instruction. When the external device confirms that the authentication has been established, the external device transmits a power generation start instruction to the solar cell panel 10. When the solar cell panel 10 receives the power generation start instruction from the external device in the authentication establishment state, the first control means 16 switches the output switch means 13 from the OFF state to the ON state and starts output of the generated power. At the same time, a response indicating completion of the instruction is returned to the external device. The external device receives the response of completion of execution of the instruction and ends the series of operations.

  In this way, by issuing an authentication request from the solar cell panel 10 to the external device at the timing when the solar cell 11 can generate power, the external device only needs to wait until receiving the authentication request. In addition to suppressing useless communication, it is possible to eliminate the inconvenience of instructing the start of power generation output in a state where the solar battery cells 11 cannot generate power.

  In FIG. 17, the authentication key is also owned by the solar cell panel 10 side, but the authentication key may be owned only by the external device side such as the power conditioner 30. In this case, the solar cell panel 10 confirms whether it is connected to an external device having an authentication key, and if the presence of the external device can be confirmed, the output switch means 13 is turned on to output generated power. To start. In this method, the solar cell panel 10 can output generated power only when it is connected to an external device that has been paired (registered) in advance.

  That is, since the solar panel 10 is installed outdoors such as the ground, it is easily damaged by theft. However, since the external device is often installed inside a locked building, it is not easily damaged by theft. Therefore, even if the solar cell panel 10 is stolen, if the external device is not stolen, the solar cell panel 10 cannot be used, and it is useless to steal the solar cell panel 10, thus suppressing theft. It becomes possible.

  Operations of the solar cell panel 10 and the external device (power conditioner 30) having the above-described configuration will be described with reference to a flowchart of FIG.

  When both the solar cell panel 10 and the external device start operation, the external device side waits for a response from the solar cell panel 10. The solar cell panel 10 is in a state where the output switch means 13 is in an OFF state and output is prohibited until authentication is established. In this state, when the solar battery 11 resumes power generation due to sunrise or the like, the communication means 14, the authentication means 15, the first control means 16, and the output switch means 13 in the solar battery panel 10 receive power from the solar battery cell 11. When it is supplied, it is ready for operation.

  When in an operable state, the first control means 16 of the solar cell panel 10 makes an inquiry for authentication information (authentication key) to the external device. The external device responds with the authentication key in response to the authentication key inquiry. When the authentication key obtained from the external device is a regular authentication key, the authentication means 15 of the solar cell panel 10 returns a response indicating that authentication has been established to the external device. Then, the first control unit 16 switches the output switch unit 13 from the OFF state to the ON state, starts output of the generated power, and returns an instruction execution completion response to the external device. The external device receives a response indicating completion of the instruction and ends the series of operations.

  In this way, the solar cell panel 10 has an authentication key on the external device side and makes an inquiry about the authentication key from the solar cell panel 10 side to the external device at the timing when the solar cell 11 can generate power. Even if the device is stolen, the solar cell panel 10 cannot be used unless an authentication key is acquired from a previously registered external device, and the effect of suppressing theft can be enhanced.

  Next, a solar cell panel according to a fifth example of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 19 and 20.

  FIG. 19 shows a schematic view of a general solar battery panel. The photovoltaic cells that are power generation elements are arranged so as to be visible from the surface of the photovoltaic panel. When the output switch means 13, the communication means 14, the authentication means 15, the first control means 16, and the second control means 17 that are components of the present invention are housed in a terminal box provided on the back surface of the solar cell panel, The configuration of the solar cell panel becomes easy. However, since the terminal box can be accessed by removing the outer lid, if the output switch means 13 is provided inside the terminal box, both terminals of the output switch means 13 can be short-circuited by an additional cable or the like. Physically possible. When both terminals of the output switch means 13 are short-circuited, the power generation power of the solar battery cell 11 is always output, and the theft suppression effect due to non-functioning as a solar battery is lost unless power generation is possible even if it is stolen. . Therefore, in this embodiment, a structure is adopted in which the two terminals of the output switch means 13 cannot be physically short-circuited.

  FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of the solar cell panel of this example. The solar cells 11 that are power generation elements are arranged in the sealing material so that they can be seen through the transparent glass on the surface of the solar battery panel 10. The glass on the surface is provided to protect the cells inside the panel from flying objects such as spears. The solar battery cell 11 is provided in a sealing material sandwiched between glass and a back sheet. The solar battery cell 11 is provided in a sealing material after wiring is provided between the cells. By being sealed with the sealing material, the solar battery cell 11 is prevented from being deteriorated due to oxidation or the like, and can provide a long life. If a hole or the like is opened in the sealing material, the solar battery cell 11 is exposed to the outside air environment, and deterioration is significantly advanced.

  As shown in the figure, the feature of this embodiment is that the output switch means 13 is incorporated in the sealing material. As described above, if both terminals of the output switch means 13 are forcibly short-circuited, it becomes difficult to provide crime prevention and safety, which are the objects of the present invention. However, when the output switch means 13 is mounted inside the encapsulant, it becomes impossible to access the terminals of the output switch means 13 other than destroying the encapsulant. If the sealing material is destroyed and both terminals of the output switch means are short-circuited, power generation can be maintained for a while, but the life of the solar cell panel 10 is remarkably shortened, and the solar cell panel within a short period of time. You will lose 10 values. Therefore, unauthorized use of the solar cell panel 10 can be prevented, and as a result, theft can be suppressed.

  In FIG. 20, the structure in which the output switch means 13 is installed inside the sealing material is shown. However, when the modification for forcibly taking out the output of the solar cell panel 10 is performed, the function of the solar cell panel 10 is made permanent. Any structure may be used as long as the structure is damaged.

  Further, the present invention is not limited to the description of each of the above embodiments, and the configuration and control thereof can be changed as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

  INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention can be used for a solar cell panel, particularly a solar cell panel installed in a place where it can be removed.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Solar cell panel 11 Solar cell 12 Backflow prevention diode 13 Output switch means 14 Communication means 15 Authentication means 16 1st control means 17 2nd control means 17a Timer means 17b Clock means 17c Power generation detection means 20 Solar cell panel 21 Solar Battery cell 22 Backflow prevention diode 30 Power conditioner 31 Power adjustment block 32 Communication block 40 Battery 50 Load 60 Connection box 70 Power meter

Claims (12)

In a solar panel including solar cells,
Output switch means capable of switching between connection and disconnection of a path for outputting power generated by the solar battery cell;
A communication means for communicating with an external device;
Authentication means for performing authentication verification based on authentication information acquired from the external device by the communication means;
First output means for controlling the output switch means from a shut-off state to a connected state,
The first control means changes the output switch means from a cut-off state to a connected state when authentication is established by authentication verification by the authentication means. The first control means transmits an authentication request to the external device at a predetermined timing,
The authentication unit, when receiving authentication information for the request from the external device, performs authentication by comparing the received authentication information with authentication information stored in advance in the solar cell panel. The solar cell panel as described in. The first control means requests authentication information from an external device registered in advance at a predetermined timing,
2. The solar cell panel according to claim 1, wherein when the authentication unit obtains authentication information from the external device, the authentication unit performs authentication by determining whether the received authentication information is legitimate authentication information.   The solar cell panel according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the predetermined timing is when power generation by the solar cell is detected.   The said authentication information can be set or changed for every said solar cell panel using the specific setting means containing the said external device, The sun as described in any one of Claim 1 thru | or 4 characterized by the above-mentioned. Battery panel. Further comprising second control means for controlling the output switch means from a connected state to a cut-off state;
6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the second control unit changes the output switch unit from a connected state to a blocked state based on a specific condition different from the authentication verification by the authenticating unit. The solar cell panel as described in kaichi. The solar cell panel has timer means,
The sun according to claim 6, wherein the second control means changes the output switch means from a connected state to a cut-off state when the timer means detects the passage of a predetermined time. Battery panel. The solar cell panel has a clock means,
The sun according to claim 6, wherein the second control means changes the output switch means from a connected state to a cut-off state when the clock means detects arrival of a predetermined time. Battery panel. The solar battery panel has power generation detection means for detecting the power generation amount of the solar battery cell,
7. The solar cell panel according to claim 6, wherein the second control unit changes the output switch unit from a connected state to a cut-off state based on a power generation amount detected by the power generation detection unit.   10. The second control means, when changing the output switch means from a connected state to a blocked state, causes the authentication means to delete the authentication history and return to an unauthenticated state. The solar cell panel as described in any one of. In the structure for obtaining the driving power of the output switch means by the generated power of the solar battery cell,
The second control means changes the output switch means from a connected state to a cut-off state when the solar cell starts power generation and the output switch means can be driven. The solar cell panel as described in any one of Claims 6 thru | or 10.   The solar cell panel according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein a terminal of the output switch means is disposed inside a structure that seals the solar cells.

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