Identifying an arc-fault type in photovoltaic arrays
| DWPI Title: Arc-fault type classifier device for detecting arc-faults in a photovoltaic array, comprises a measurement element that monitors photovoltaic array system for a change in current or voltage upon notification from arc-fault detection element |
| Abstract: An apparatus, method, and system for detecting arc-faults in a photovoltaic array are disclosed. Further, the detection not only identifies that an arc-fault is present in the array, but also classifies whether the arc-fault is a series type arc-fault or a parallel type arc-fault. Upon determination of the specific type of arc-fault that is at issue, de-energizing the arc-fault specific to the type is selected and carried out. |
| Use: Arc-fault type classifier device for use in a photovoltaic array system (Claimed) for detecting the arc faults in a photovoltaic array. |
| Advantage: The reliable and accurate arc-fault detectors are provided for minimizing the risk of electrical fire. The arc-fault noise is prevented from reaching the detector. |
| Novelty: The arc-fault type classifier device comprises an arc-fault detection element that monitors a photovoltaic array system (100) for arcing through frequency domain techniques. A measurement element monitors the photovoltaic array system for a change in current or a change in voltage upon notification from the arc-fault detection element that the arcing exists in the photovoltaic array system. The measurement element classifies the arc-fault as a series arc fault (130) or parallel arc fault (140) based on the change in current or the change in voltage monitored. The measurement element compares the change in current to a current threshold value or percentage and the change in voltage to a voltage threshold value or percentage. The measurement element determines that the type of arc-fault is parallel when the change in current exceeds the current threshold value or the change in voltage exceeds the voltage threshold value. |
| Filed: 5/23/2014 |
| Application Number: US14286537A |
| Tech ID: SD 12311.1 |
| This invention was made with Government support under Contract No. DE-NA0003525 awarded by the United States Department of Energy/National Nuclear Security Administration. The Government has certain rights in the invention. |
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