Pv-intrascan: Integrable system to scan the outdoor performance of PV-flat and PV concentration modules

Kurzfassung

An Italian public research institute has developed an innovative system to analize the performance of a photovoltaic system. The system simplifies the electrical connection and allows the synchronized-integrated measurement of various operational parameters for single modules.The system allows the execution of the measurements by avoiding the interruption of the energetic production.The institute is looking for partners in order to develop, manufacture and commercialize the technology proposal.

Details

The performance analysis of a photovoltaic system is based on the operative (I-V) characterization - tension of DC generator and the single PV modules, but taking in account the meteorological and operating parameters such as the incident radiation on the photovoltaic field, the solar spectra, the environmental and PV module temperature. However, in the case of PV Concentrator systems, further parameters need to be taken into account, such as directed incident light, accuracy of the solar tracking and optical alignment, the thermal expansions of the structures and the module housing, the wind speed, the positioning of the module in reference to tracking plane etc.
Currently this type of diagnosis is carried out by using very expensive and complex systems of I-V characterization which allow the acquisition of a limited number of operating parameters and impose the connection of the measurement through complex wirings, thus impliying a not negligible risk of fault due to the intense activities in height and electrical shock risks of the workers.
Moreover, these systems usually require the shut-off of the PV system for the electrical connection of each PV module, with detrimental effects related to energy production and changes in the operative conditions related to the increased thermal dissipation as effect of no electrical power produced.
The new system developed by Italian public research institute not only simplifies the electrical connection but it also allows the synchronized and integrated measure of various operational parameters with a multitude of data acquired in precise and complete way for single modules, parts of PV innovative plants, allowing the execution of the measurements by avoiding the interruption of the energetic production for a fraction of few seconds limited to the characterization. This peculiarity is not only very interesting from a commercial point of view, but it also allows to characterize the Photovoltaic systems in a configuration very close to the real operative conditions. The inventors are currently engaged in an advanced phase of development.

Innovative Aspects:
The system:
- allows the synchronized and integrated measure of various operational parameters with multitude of data acquired in precise and complete way
- simplifies the electrical connections
- allows the execution of the measurements by avoiding the interruption of the energetic production for a fraction of few seconds limited to the characterization