Input Power Capacity Detector embodying a method for measuring the maximum power (Pmax) available from a photo voltaic panel or array of photo voltaic panels without requirement that a connected AC powered device draws power at the time of measurement

摘要

A method of measuring the maximum power available from a photo voltaic array without the requirement of connected AC devices drawing power at time of measurement. Such a method allows for the design of systems which may prevent the unnecessary or potentially damaging startup of said AC devices at times at which power is not sufficient to power them safely. This is achieved by use of a power converter which converts the variable DC input voltage from the PV to a known, fixed DC voltage, then disabling the power converter at defined intervals for very short periods, taking a measurement of the Voc, when risen, and then shorting the current through a resistor and measuring Isc. Measurements are communicated to a central processing unit, which calculates Pmax.