Optimum Power Tracking for Distributed Power Sources

Issue
 Date
Publication Date
Patent No.
9,325,176
Category
Device and Method

Embodiments of the present invention provide an apparatus for optimum power tracking for distributed power sources. The apparatus includes a plurality of distributed-input parallel-output converters. Each converter is operably connected to a corresponding power source to form a power-processing channel. The apparatus also includes a controller operably connected to the plurality of converters, and is configured to provide uniform input voltages across each power source while tracking an optimum power point. The controller provides tolerance for multiple faults up to N-1 power source failures for the apparatus comprising an N-channel converter power system with N distributed power sources.

Keywords: power tracking, distributed power
International Class: H02J4/00, H02J3/38