Claims:1. A system comprising a load and a solar panel:
a minimum open circuit voltage establishment module configured to establish a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min) of the load;
a current open circuit voltage establishment module configured to establish a current open circuit voltage (VOC-curr) of the solar panel based on incoming solar voltage;
a load performance assessment module configured to switch on and assess performance of the load at VOC-curr when the VOC-curr is greater than VOC-min, wherein if the assessed performance meets desired performance, the load is continued to be operated at VOC-curr, else the load is switched off;
a switch on voltage threshold updation module configured to update switch on voltage threshold (VOC-switchon_threshold) based on VOC-curr and an offset value;
a switch on voltage threshold decrement module configured to periodically decrement and update the VOC-switchon_threshold based on a decrement voltage (Vdec) such that the load is switched on either when incoming solar voltage is greater than the updated VOC-switchon_threshold, or when incoming solar voltage is greater than VOC-min and the updated VOC-switchon_threshold has decremented to a value lower than VOC-min.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the load performance assessment module is configured to assess the performance of the load for a defined time duration.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the switch on voltage threshold updation module is implemented when the assessed load performance does not meet the desired performance.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein any or a combination of the VOC-min, the Vdec, and the offset value are varied.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the system further comprises a temperature sensor that is configured to enable adjustment of any or a combination of the VOC-min, the Vdec, and the offset value.

6. A system comprising a load and a solar panel:
a minimum open circuit voltage establishment module configured to establish a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min) of the load;
a short circuit current measurement module configured to measure short circuit current (Isc) of the solar panel when an incoming solar voltage increases and crosses the VOC-min;
a short circuit current threshold based load switching module configured to switch on the load when the Isc is greater than a defined short circuit current threshold value (Isc-threshold).

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the system further comprises a load performance assessment module configured to assess performance of the load at Isc such that when the load performance is not desired performance, the load is switched off else the load is continued to be operated.

8. The system of claim 6, wherein if performance of the load is not desired performance, Isc-threshold is varied.

9. A method comprising the steps of:
establishing a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min) of the load;
establishing a current open circuit voltage (VOC-curr) of the solar panel based on incoming solar voltage;
switching on and assessing performance of the load at VOC-curr when the VOC-curr is greater than VOC-min, wherein if the assessed performance meets desired performance, the load is continued to be operated at VOC-curr, else the load is switched off;
updating switch on voltage threshold (VOC-switchon_threshold) based on VOC-curr and an offset value;
periodically decrementing and updating the VOC-switchon_threshold based on a decrement voltage (Vdec) such that the load is switched on either when incoming solar voltage is greater than the updated VOC-switchon_threshold, or when incoming solar voltage is greater than VOC-min and the updated VOC-switchon_threshold has decremented to a value lower than VOC-min.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein the step of updating the VOC-switchon_threshold is implemented when the assessed load performance does not meet the desired performance.

11. The method of claim 9, wherein any or a combination of the VOC-min, the Vdec, and the offset value are varied.

12. A method comprising the steps of
establishing a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min) of the load;
measuring short circuit current (Isc) of the solar panel when an incoming solar voltage increases and crosses the VOC-min;
switching on the load when the Isc is greater than a defined short circuit current threshold value (Isc-threshold); and
assessing performance of the load at Isc such that when the load performance is not desired performance, the load is switched off else the load is continued to operated.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein if performance of the load is not desired performance, Isc-threshold is varied.
, Description:FIELD OF DISCLOSURE
[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of solar power regulator. More particularly, the present disclosure aims to describe a solar power controller and switching method thereof for detecting the power output status of solar panel and optimally operating an attached load.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] The background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
[0003] Use of renewable energy source based power generation system is bound to expand as cost of traditional fossil fuel based power generation systems is increasing, and the traditional sources are becoming less favored due to their negative environmental impacts. More and more people/houses/buildings of future are likely to adopt renewable energy source based power generation systems to fulfill their power demand. It has been observed that people prefer renewable energy over fossil fuel based power generation systems due to various reasons and this trend seems to grow stronger with more and more people opting for it. There are several renewable energy sources based power generation systems such as solar power generation, wind power generation, biomass power generation, wave activated power generation, and the like. Depending on power requirement and type of load that needs to be operated by the generated power, one or the other renewable energy based power generation systems can be used. Solar power generation is one of the most widely used power generation system that can derive power from solar rays/energy. Due to ease of installation, low capital investment, and low space requirement along with other advantages, solar power generation system is the most preferred source of energy to fulfill requirement of any load, home, or building. Solar power system, due to its ease of installation, operation, and unlimited availability, is also being used for driving vehicles, agricultural equipments, home equipments, cold storage devices, among other like devices.
[0004] One major concern with the solar power system is its reliability over the sun light/intensity, which varies based on time of the day, temperature, and weather conditions. An electrical equipment/load/vehicle can operate on the solar power only if the intensity of solar light is good enough and when the solar power generation system is able to generate enough power so as to drive the attached electrical equipment/load/vehicle (collectively and interchangeably referred to as “attached load” or “load” hereinafter. In some weather conditions, solar cells may not therefore be able to generate enough energy/power to drive the attached load. In different implementations, power generated by the solar cells/panels is directly used to run the load or is used to recharge a battery, which in-turn runs the load. In a system where the power generated by the solar cell/plates are directly used to drive/run the attached load, a controller is required to determine whether power generated by the solar plate/cell is enough to drive the attached load or not. It has been observed that in absence of such a controller, the user generally tries to run the load with the power generated by the solar cell, and if the load is not able to run optimally, the user switches OFF the load and tries again after some time. The user may repeatedly try to run the load and if load in not able to run optimally, he/she may switch OFF the load manually. Running the load with low power, and frequent switching ON/OFF of the load can adversely affect the life of the load. In prior art solutions, there exist some sensors such as pyranometers that can measure irradiance/intensity of sun light, and then control/switch ON/OFF the power supply to the attached load based on the sensed value of irradiance. However, these irradiance sensors are expensive and hence may not be preferred solution for low cost applications.
[0005] Therefore, it would be desirable to provide an alternative, low cost solar power controller system and method thereof that can estimate power output status of solar panel, and optimally operate an attached load based on estimated power output status of solar panel. There is therefore required an architecture that minimizes the number of attempts the system makes to operate the load, and at the same time ensure that it starts right away when enough solar power becomes available. There is also required a solar power controller system that can sense voltage/current being generated by a power source (such as a solar panel) that has variable output power, and accordingly control the supply of power to the attached load. It would further be beneficial to provide such a solar power controller system and method thereof that can optimally operate an attached load based on sensed power generated by a solar panel so as to protect the attached load and run the attached load as soon as the power generated by the solar cell is equal to the minimum power required for running the attached load.
[0006] All publications herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Where a definition or use of a term in an incorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition of that term provided herein, the definition of that term provided herein applies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.
[0007] In some embodiments, the numbers expressing quantities or dimensions of items, and so forth, used to describe and claim certain embodiments of the invention are to be understood as being modified in some instances by the term “about.” Accordingly, in some embodiments, the numerical parameters set forth in the written description and attached claims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by a particular embodiment. In some embodiments, the numerical parameters should be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of some embodiments of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as practicable. The numerical values presented in some embodiments of the invention may contain certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements.
[0008] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0009] The recitation of ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention. +
[00010] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability.

OBJECT OF INVENTION
[00011] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a solar power controller system for estimating power output strength of a solar panel, and controlling power supply to an attached load based on the estimated power output strength.
[00012] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a solar power controller that can control power supply from a solar panel to an attached load based on variable power demand by the attached load and variable power supply generated by the power source.
[00013] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a method for detecting power output strength of a solar panel, and controlling power supply to an attached load.
[00014] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a power controller system that can sense power generated by a power source that has a variable output power, and control the power supply to an attached load based on the sensed output power generated by the power source.
[00015] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a solar power controller system and method thereof for optimally operating an attached load based on sensed power generated by a solar panel so as to protect the attached load and run the attached load as soon as power generated by the solar panel is equal to minimum power required for running the attached load.
[00016] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a power controller system and method for providing safety to an attached load, and switching off the power supply as soon as generated power is less than a predefined threshold of power required to operate the attached load.
[00017] Another object of the present disclosure is to update/optimize/regulate threshold value used by a controller to switch ON/OFF power supply to an attached load.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[00018] The present disclosure relates to the field of solar power regulator. More particularly, the present disclosure aims to describe a solar power controller and switching method thereof for detecting the power output status of solar panel and optimally operating an attached load.
[00019] In an aspect, system of the present disclosure can include a load and a solar panel, wherein the system can further include multiple functional modules such as a minimum open circuit voltage establishment module that can be configured to establish a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min) of the load, a current open circuit voltage establishment module that can be configured to establish a current open circuit voltage (VOC-curr) of the solar panel based on voltage of incoming solar voltage, and a load performance assessment module that can be configured to switch on and assess performance of the load at VOC-curr when the VOC-curr is greater than VOC-min, wherein if the assessed performance meets desired performance, the load is continued to be operated at VOC-curr, else the load is switched off. System of the present disclosure can further include a switch-on voltage threshold updation module configured to update switch on voltage threshold (VOC-switchon_threshold) based on VOC-curr and an offset value, and a switch-on voltage threshold decrement module configured to periodically decrement and update the VOC-switchon_threshold based on a decrement voltage (Vdec) such that the load is switched on either when incoming solar voltage is greater than the updated VOC-switchon_threshold, or when incoming solar voltage is greater than VOC-min and the updated VOC-switchon_threshold has decremented to a value lower than VOC-min.
[00020] In an aspect, system of the present disclosure can be configured to assess the performance of the load for a defined time duration. In an aspect, the switch-on voltage threshold updation module can be implemented when the assessed load performance does not meet the desired performance. In another aspect, any or a combination of the VOC-min, the Vdec, and the offset value can be varied. In another aspect, system of the present disclosure can include a temperature sensor that can be configured to enable adjustment of any or a combination of the VOC-min, the Vdec, and the offset value.
[00021] In an aspect, system of the present disclosure can include a minimum open circuit voltage establishment module configured to establish a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min) of the load, a short circuit current measurement module configured to measure short circuit current (Isc) of the solar panel when an incoming solar voltage increases and crosses the VOC-min, and a short circuit current threshold based load switching module configured to switch on the load when the Isc is greater than a defined short circuit current threshold value (Isc-threshold).
[00022] In an aspect, system of the present disclosure can include a load performance assessment module that can be configured to assess performance of the load at Isc such that when the load performance does not meet the desired performance, the load can be switched off else the load can be continued to be operated. In an aspect, if performance of the load is not desired performance, Isc-threshold can be varied.
[00023] In an aspect, method of the present disclosure can include the steps of establishing a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min) of the load, establishing a current open circuit voltage (VOC-curr) of the solar panel based on voltage of incoming solar voltage, and switching on and assessing performance of the load at VOC-curr when the VOC-curr is greater than VOC-min, wherein if the assessed performance meets desired performance, the load is continued to be operated at VOC-curr, else the load is switched off. The method can further include the steps of updating switch on voltage threshold (VOC-switchon_threshold) based on VOC-curr and an offset value, and periodically decrementing and updating the VOC-switchon_threshold based on a decrement voltage (Vdec) such that the load is switched on either when incoming solar voltage is greater than the updated VOC-switchon_threshold, or when incoming solar voltage is greater than VOC-min and the updated VOC-switchon_threshold has decremented to a value lower than VOC-min.
[00024] In an aspect, the method can further include the step of updating the VOC-switchon_threshold is implemented when the assessed load performance does not meet the desired performance.
[00025] In another implementation, method of the present disclosure can include the steps of establishing a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min) of the load, measuring short circuit current (Isc) of the solar panel when an incoming solar voltage increases and crosses the VOC-min, switching on the load when the Iscis greater than a defined short circuit current threshold value (Isc-threshold), and assessing performance of the load at Isc such that when the load performance is not desired performance, the load is switched off else the load is continued to operated.
[00026] In an aspect, system of the present disclosure can include a solar power controller that can be operatively coupled to the solar panel as well as to the load and is configured to implement one or more of the above-mentioned modules and assess performance of the load at different Isc and VOC-curr levels.
[00027] In an exemplary implementation, short circuit current (Isc) and current open circuit voltage (VOC-curr) can both be used to evaluate when to switch on the load. For instance, it can be configured that the load is switched on only when both the short circuit current (Isc) and current open circuit voltage (VOC-curr) are higher than their respective threshold values. All such combinations are therefore completely within the scope of the present disclosure.
[00028] Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like features.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[00029] The diagrams are for illustration only and are not limitations of the present disclosure, and wherein:
[00030] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary architecture block diagram of a solar power controller system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00031] FIG. 2 illustrates another exemplary block diagram of solar power controller system that uses sensed output and load feedback data for optimally controlling power supply to an attached load in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00032] FIGs. 3A and 3B illustrate exemplary functional modules of the proposed solar power controller system for optimally controlling power supply to an attached load based on sensed open circuit voltage generated by a solar panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00033] FIGs. 4A and 4B illustrate exemplary flow diagrams and of the proposed solar power controller system for optimally controlling power supply to an attached load based on sensed open circuit voltage generated by a solar panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[00034] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present invention. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without some of these specific details.
[00035] Embodiments of the present invention include various steps, which will be described below. The steps may be performed by hardware components or may be embodied in machine-executable instructions, which may be used to cause a general-purpose or special-purpose processor programmed with the instructions to perform the steps. Alternatively, a steps may be performed by a combination of hardware, software, and firmware and/or by human operators.
[00036] Embodiments of the present invention may be provided as a computer program product, which may include a machine-readable storage medium tangibly embodying thereon instructions, which may be used to program a computer (or other electronic devices) toperform a process. The machine-readable medium may include, but is not limited to, fixed (hard) drives, magnetic tape, floppy diskettes, optical disks, compact disc read-only memories (CD-ROMs), and magneto-optical disks, semiconductor memories, such as ROMs, PROMs, random access memories (RAMs), programmable read-only memories (PROMs), erasable PROMs (EPROMs), electrically erasable PROMs (EEPROMs), flash memory, magnetic or optical cards, or other type of media/machine-readable medium suitable for storing electronic instructions (e.g., computer programming code, such as software or firmware).
[00037] Various methods described herein may be practiced by combining one or more machine-readable storage media containing the code according to the present invention with appropriate standard computer hardware to execute the code contained therein. An apparatus for practicing various embodiments of the present invention may involve one or more computers (or one or more processors within a single computer) and storage systems containing or having network access to computer program(s) coded in accordance with various methods described herein, and the method steps of the invention could be accomplished by modules, routines, subroutines, or subparts of a computer program product.
[00038] If the specification states a component or feature “may”, “can”, “could”, or “might” be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.
[00039] The present disclosure relates to the field of solar power regulator. More particularly, the present disclosure aims to describe a solar power controller and switching method thereof for detecting the power output status of solar panel and optimally operating an attached load.
[00040] In an aspect, system of the present disclosure can include a load and a solar panel, wherein the system can further include multiple functional modules such as a minimum open circuit voltage establishment module that can be configured to establish a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min) of the load, a current open circuit voltage establishment module that can be configured to establish a current open circuit voltage (VOC-curr) of the solar panel based on voltage of incoming solar voltage, and a load performance assessment module that can be configured to switch on and assess performance of the load at VOC-curr when the VOC-curr is greater than VOC-min, wherein if the assessed performance meets desired performance, the load is continued to be operated at VOC-curr, else the load is switched off. System of the present disclosure can further include a switch-on voltage threshold updation module configured to update switch on voltage threshold (VOC-switchon_threshold) based on VOC-curr and an offset value, and a switch-on voltage threshold decrement module configured to periodically decrement and update the VOC-switchon_threshold based on a decrement voltage (Vdec) such that the load is switched on either when incoming solar voltage is greater than the updated VOC-switchon_threshold, or when incoming solar voltage is greater than VOC-min and the updated VOC-switchon_threshold has decremented to a value lower than VOC-min.
[00041] In an aspect, system of the present disclosure can be configured to assess the performance of the load for a defined time duration. In an aspect, the switch-on voltage threshold updation module can be implemented when the assessed load performance does not meet the desired performance. In another aspect, any or a combination of the VOC-min, the Vdec, and the offset value can be varied. In another aspect, system of the present disclosure can include a temperature sensor that can be configured to enable adjustment of any or a combination of the VOC-min, the Vdec, and the offset value.
[00042] In an aspect, system of the present disclosure can include a minimum open circuit voltage establishment module configured to establish a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min) of the load, a short circuit current measurement module configured to measure short circuit current (Isc) of the solar panel when an incoming solar voltage increases and crosses the VOC-min, and a short circuit current threshold based load switching module configured to switch on the load when the Isc is greater than a defined short circuit current threshold value (Isc-threshold).
[00043] In an aspect, system of the present disclosure can include a load performance assessment module that can be configured to assess performance of the load at Isc such that when the load performance does not meet the desired performance, the load can be switched off else the load can be continued to be operated. In an aspect, if performance of the load is not desired performance, Isc-threshold can be varied.
[00044] In an aspect, method of the present disclosure can include the steps of establishing a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min) of the load, establishing a current open circuit voltage (VOC-curr) of the solar panel based on voltage of incoming solar voltage, and switching on and assessing performance of the load at VOC-curr when the VOC-curr is greater than VOC-min, wherein if the assessed performance meets desired performance, the load is continued to be operated at VOC-curr, else the load is switched off. The method can further include the steps of updating switch on voltage threshold (VOC-switchon_threshold) based on VOC-curr and an offset value, and periodically decrementing and updating the VOC-switchon_threshold based on a decrement voltage (Vdec) such that the load is switched on either when incoming solar voltage is greater than the updated VOC-switchon_threshold, or when incoming solar voltage is greater than VOC-min and the updated VOC-switchon_threshold has decremented to a value lower than VOC-min.
[00045] In an aspect, the method can further include the step of updating the VOC-switchon_threshold is implemented when the assessed load performance does not meet the desired performance.
[00046] In another implementation, method of the present disclosure can include the steps of establishing a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min) of the load, measuring short circuit current (Isc) of the solar panel when an incoming solar voltage increases and crosses the VOC-min, switching on the load when the Isc is greater than a defined short circuit current threshold value (Isc-threshold), and assessing performance of the load at Isc such that when the load performance is not desired performance, the load is switched off else the load is continued to operated.
[00047] In an aspect, system of the present disclosure can include a solar power controller that can be operatively coupled to the solar panel as well as to the load and is configured to implement one or more of the above-mentioned modules and assess performance of the load at different Isc and VOC-curr levels.
[00048] In an exemplary implementation, short circuit current (Isc) and current open circuit voltage (VOC-curr) can both be used to evaluate when to switch on the load. For instance, it can be configured that the load is switched on only when both the short circuit current (Isc) and current open circuit voltage (VOC-curr) are higher than their respective threshold values. All such combinations are therefore completely within the scope of the present disclosure.
[00049] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary architecture block diagram of a solar power controller system100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, a solar panel 104 can be configured to generate electric power from solar energy, and transfer the power through a solar power controller 102 to an attached load 106(or to one or more batteries to recharge the batteries, for instance). The controller 102 can be configured to sense variable output power generated by the solar panel 104,and allow direct power supply as generated by the solar panel 104 to the attached load 106 only if the output power generated by the solar panel 104 is greater than a minimum power required to run the attached load 106. In an exemplary implementation, controller 102 can be configured to receive a sensed open circuit voltage from an open circuit voltage sensor, and a sensed short circuit current from a short circuit current sensor, wherein the controller 102 can be configured to sense minimum power required to run the attached load 106 in real time, and allow the power supply to the attached load only if the power generated by the solar panel 104 is greater than the minimum power required to run the attached load 106. In an exemplary implementation, the minimum power required to run the load 106can be manually preconfigured if the requirement of the attached load 106 is fixed.
[00050] In an aspect, the solar system power generation system architecture of FIG. 1 can be configured to include a monitoring and communication centre (not shown) that can be configured to monitor power generated by the solar panel/cells 104, and communicate power availability to other electric systems or an electric grid if the power generated by the solar panel 104 is more than power required to drive the attached load 106. The monitoring and communication center can also be configured to inform the solar power controller 102 about availability of other power sources so as to enable the controller 102 to receive the power from other sources, and supply required power to the attached load 106 in case the power generated by the solar panel 104 is not sufficient to drive the attached load 106.
[00051] In an exemplary implementation, controller 102 of the present disclosure can be configured to receive open circuit voltage (Voc-curr) of solar panel 104, and intelligently switch ON the attached load 106 as soon as the open circuit voltage is greater than a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min). For instance, controller 102, in an exemplary implementation, can be configured to establish a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min) for the load, and upon receiving an incoming solar voltage, confirm if the current/received open circuit voltage (VOC-curr) of the solar panel increases and crosses the VOC-min. When the current/received open circuit voltage (VOC-curr) increases/crosses the VOC-min, the load 106 can be switched on and its performance at VOC-curr can be assessed, wherein if the assessed performance meets desired/expected performance, the load can be continued to be operated at VOC-curr, else the load can be switched off. In an aspect, in case the load is switched off due to performance reasons, VOC-switchon_threshold can be updated as VOC-curr + offset value (say of 10V), and the updated VOC-switchon_threshold can be periodically decremented based on a decrement voltage (Vdec) (by say Vdec= .5V can be decremented per minute) and the VOC-switchon_threshold value can be updated/modified periodically such that the load is switched on either when incoming solar voltage is greater than the updated VOC-switchon_threshold, or when incoming solar voltage is greater than VOC-min and the updated VOC-switchon_threshold has decremented to a value lower than VOC-min.
[00052] In an aspect, performance of the load can be assessed for a defined time duration of say 20 seconds. In another aspect, VOC-switchon_threshold is updated as VOC-curr + offset value only when the assessed load performance does not meet the desired performance as if the performance is met, the load is continued to be operated at the VOC-curr itself. In another aspect, any or a combination of the VOC-min, the Vdec, and the offset value can be varied. In yet another aspect, system of the present disclosure can include a temperature sensor that can be configured to enable adjustment of any or a combination of the VOC-min, the Vdec, and the offset value.
[00053] In an instance, we can assume that VOC-minis 100V, wherein if the VOC-curris 120V, as the VOC-curr is greater than VOC-min, the load can be switched on, and if the performance of the load meets the desired performance, the load can be continued to be operated at VOC-curr of 120V, else if the performance of the load does not meet the desired performance, VOC-switchon_threshold can be updated/created/modified as VOC-curr+ an offset value such as 10V, making VOC-switchon_threshold as 130V. In an aspect, the VOC-switchon_threshold can then be step-wise decremented and accordingly updated by say 0.5V every minute such that when the incoming solar voltage is greater than the VOC-switchon_threshold, at that instance, the load 106 can be switched on else, over a period of time, for example in around 60 minutes (in the present instance), the VOC-switchon_threshold would be equal to VOC-min, and then once the incoming solar voltage is greater than the VOC-min, the load 106 can be switched on.
[00054] In another embodiment, controller 102 can also be configured to establish a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min) of the load 106, and measure short circuit current (Isc) of the solar panel 104 when an incoming solar voltage increases and crosses the VOC-min. Controller 102 can further be configured to switch on the load 106 when the Isc is greater than a defined short circuit current threshold value (Isc-threshold), and performance of the load 106 at Isc can be assessed such that when the load performance does not match with the desired performance, the load 106 can be switched off else the load 106 can be continued to operated. In another aspect, if performance of the load 106 does not match with the desired performance, Isc-threshold can be varied.
[00055] FIG. 2 illustrates another exemplary block diagram of solar power controller system 200 that uses sensed output and load feedback data for optimally controlling power supply to an attached load 212 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As mentioned above, in an exemplary implementation, controller 202 of the present disclosure can be configured to receive open circuit voltage (Voc-curr) of solar panel 204using open circuit voltage sensor 208, and intelligently switch ON the attached load 212 as soon as the open circuit voltage is greater than a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min). For instance, controller 202, in an exemplary implementation, can be configured to establish a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min) for the load, and upon receiving an incoming solar voltage, confirm if the current/received open circuit voltage (VOC-curr) of the solar panel increases and crosses the VOC-min. When the current/received open circuit voltage (VOC-curr) increases/crosses the VOC-min, the load 212 can be switched on and its performance at VOC-curr can be assessed, wherein if the assessed performance meets desired/expected performance, the load 212 can be continued to be operated at VOC-curr, else the load 212 can be switched off. In an aspect, in case the load 212 is switched off due to performance reasons, VOC-switchon_threshold can be updated as VOC-curr + offset value (say of 10V), and the updated VOC-switchon_threshold can be periodically decremented based on a decrement voltage (Vdec) (by say Vdec = .5V can be decremented per minute) and the VOC-switchon_threshold value can be updated/modified periodically such that the load 212 is switched on either when incoming solar voltage is greater than the updated VOC-switchon_threshold, or when incoming solar voltage is greater than VOC-min and the updated VOC-switchon_threshold has decremented to a value lower than VOC-min.
[00056] In an aspect, performance of the load 212 can be assessed for a defined time duration of say 20 seconds. In another aspect, VOC-switchon_threshold is updated as VOC-curr + offset value only when the assessed load performance does not meet the desired performance as if the performance is met, the load 212 is continued to be operated at the VOC-curr itself. In another aspect, any or a combination of the VOC-min, the Vdec, and the offset value can be varied. In yet another aspect, system of the present disclosure can include a temperature sensor 210 that can be configured to enable adjustment of any or a combination of the VOC-min, the Vdec, and the offset value.
[00057] In another embodiment, controller 202 can also be configured to establish a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min) of the load 212, and measure short circuit current (Isc) of the solar panel 104 (using short circuit current sensor 206) when an incoming solar voltage increases and crosses the VOC-min. Controller 202 can further be configured to switch on the load 212 when the Isc is greater than a defined short circuit current threshold value (Isc-threshold), and performance of the load 212 at Isc can be assessed such that when the load performance does not match with the desired performance, the load 212 can be switched off else the load 212 can be continued to operated. In another aspect, if performance of the load 212 does not match with the desired performance, Isc-threshold can be varied.
[00058] In another aspect, solar power controller system 200 can include a solar power controller 202, a short circuit current sensor 206, a open circuit voltage sensor 208, and a temperature sensor 210. In exemplary implementation, the open circuit voltage sensor 208 can be configured to detect/read an open circuit voltage by the solar panel 204 and send the open circuit voltage VOC-curr to the solar power controller 202. Similarly the short circuit current sensor 206 can detect/read the short circuit current Isc being generated by the solar panel 204, and send the short circuit current value Isc to the solar power controller 202. As one will appreciate, the open-circuit voltage VOC-curr and short circuit current Isc is a good indication of the power being generated by the solar plate 204 in different environmental conditions. In an exemplary implementation, the solar power controller system 200 can determine/estimate a switch-ON open circuit voltage threshold value (VOC-switchon_threshold), and a short circuit current threshold value (Isc-threshold). The solar power controller 202 can be configured to switch ON power supply to the attached load 210 if any/both of the sensed open-circuit voltage VOC-curr or the sensed short circuit current Isc is greater than their respective thresholds. As mentioned above, value of the switch-ON voltage threshold (VOC-switchon_threshold) can be decremented gradually at equal or uneven/configured intervals till it is below the minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min), in which case once the sensed open-circuit voltage VOC-curr is greater than VOC-min, the load 212 can be switched on.
[00059] In an aspect, exemplary embodiments of the preset disclosure are targeted towards obtaining an optimal switch-ON voltage threshold (VOC-switchon_threshold) and an optimal short circuit current threshold value(Isc-threshold) for optimally and securely operating an attached load 212. In an exemplary implementation, VOC-switchon_threshold and Isc-threshold can be dynamically calculated/adjusted by the solar power controller 202. In another embodiment, the controller 202 can initially set an initial VOC-switchon_threshold and an initial Isc-threshold based on standard power requirement of the attached load 212. Further, based on operating condition feedback, the controller 202 can adjust the VOC-switchon_threshold and the Isc-threshold.
[00060] In an exemplary implementation, the controller 202 can start supplying power generated by the solar panel 204 to the attached load 212 if sensed open-circuit voltage VOC-curr is greater than VOC-min. The controller 202 can receive operating condition feedback that is indicative of whether the attached load 212 is able to run with the supplied power or not, from the attached load 210 at regular intervals say every 20 seconds, and can adjust/update the VOC-switchon_threshold accordingly. In example implementation, if the feedback indicates a negative performance of the load 212 (which can be indicative of the attached load 210 is being not able to run with the supplied power), the controller 202 can switch OFF power supply to the load 212 and adjust/update the VOC-switchon_threshold, by for instance, increasing the sensed open-circuit voltage VOC-curr with an offset voltage value, i.e. updated VOC-switchon_threshold= VOC-curr+ offset value. Further, the controller 202 can switch ON power supply to the attached load 212 if the sensed open circuit voltage received from the open circuit voltage sensor 208 is greater than the updated VOC-switchon_threshold. The updated VOC-switchon_threshold can be adjusted further based on performance feedback from the attached load 210. In case the performance feedback is positive(which can be indicative of the attached load 210 being able to run properly with the supplied power), the controller 202 can start reducing the updated VOC-switchon_threshold, after a fixed time duration, say 20 minutes or immediately after the load 212 is switched of. Such time limits are completely exemplary and all such variations are mere configurations and all such variations are well within the scope of the present disclosure. The updated VOC-switchon_threshold can then be reduced gradually, by a certain rate Vdec, for example 0.5V every minute. The updated VOC-switchon_threshold can be reduced till VOC-minis greater than the updated VOC-switchon_threshold.
[00061] In an exemplary implementation, the controller 202 can use only the open circuit voltage value as sensed by the open circuit voltage sensor 208 to switch ON power supply to the attached load 212. In another exemplary implementation, the controller 202 can use short circuit current value as sensed by the short circuit current sensor 206 to make the switching decision. In another exemplary implementation, the controller 202 can start power supply to the attached load 210 only if the open circuit voltage value is greater than the minimum/updated VOC-switchon_threshold, and the short circuit current value is greater than the predefined Isc-threshold.
[00062] In an exemplary implementation, the controller 202 can send a signal to the short circuit sensor 206 to determine/sense the short circuit current value once the open circuit voltage is greater than the VOC-switchon_threshold.
[00063] FIGs. 3A and 3B illustrate exemplary functional modules of the proposed solar power controller system for optimally controlling power supply to an attached load based on sensed open circuit voltage generated by a solar panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, system 300, with respect to FIG. 3A, can include a minimum open circuit voltage establishment module 302 that can be configured to establish a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min) of/for the attached load, and a current open circuit voltage establishment module 304 configured to establish a current open circuit voltage (VOC-curr) of the solar panel based on voltage of incoming solar voltage.
[00064] System of the present disclosure can further include a load performance assessment module 306 that can be configured to switch on and assess performance of the load at VOC-curr when the VOC-curr is greater than VOC-min, wherein if the assessed performance meets desired performance, the load can be continued to be operated at VOC-curr, else the load can be switched off. System 300 of the present disclosure can further include a switch-on voltage threshold updation module 308 that can be configured to update switch-on voltage threshold (VOC-switchon_threshold) based on VOC-curr and an offset value. In an implementation, switch-on voltage threshold (VOC-switchon_threshold) can be computed as incoming current open circuit voltage (VOC-curr) + the offset voltage value.
[00065] In an aspect, system of the present disclosure can further include a switch-on voltage threshold decrement module 310 that can be configured to periodically decrement and update the VOC-switchon_threshold based on a decrement voltage (Vdec) such that the load can be switched on either when incoming solar voltage is greater than the updated VOC-switchon_threshold, or when incoming solar voltage is greater than VOC-min and the updated VOC-switchon_threshold has decremented to a value lower than VOC-min. Therefore, in other words, the load can be switched on either when the incoming solar voltage is greater than VOC-switchon_threshold when the VOC-switchon_threshold is greater than VOC-min, or the load can be switched on when the incoming solar voltage is greater than VOC-min when the VOC-switchon_threshold is lesser than VOC-min. VOC-switchon_threshold can get lower than VOC-min when its value is decremented based on a decrement voltage (Vdec) over a period of time to being lower than VOC-min.
[00066] In an aspect, the load performance assessment module 306 can be configured to assess the performance of the load for a defined time duration. In another aspect, the switch on voltage threshold updation module 308 can be implemented when the assessed load performance does not meet the desired performance. In another aspect, any or a combination of the VOC-min, the Vdec, and the offset value can be varied. In yet another aspect, system of the present disclosure can include a temperature sensor that can be configured to enable adjustment of any or a combination of the VOC-min, the Vdec, and the offset value.
[00067] With reference to FIG. 3B, system 350 of the present disclosure can include a minimum open circuit voltage establishment module 352 that can be configured to establish a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min) of the load. System 350 can further include a short circuit current measurement module 354 that can be configured to measure short circuit current (Isc) of the solar panel when an incoming solar voltage increases and crosses the VOC-min. System of the present disclosure can further include a short circuit current threshold based load switching module 356 that can be configured to switch on the load when the Isc is greater than a defined short circuit current threshold value (Isc-threshold). In an aspect, system of the present disclosure can further include a load performance assessment module 358 that can be configured to assess performance of the load at Isc such that when the load performance is not desired performance, the load can be switched off else the load can be continued to be operated. In an aspect, if performance of the load is not desired performance, Isc-threshold can be varied.
[00068] FIGs. 4A and 4B illustrate exemplary flow diagrams 400 and 450 of the proposed solar power controller system for optimally controlling power supply to an attached load based on sensed open circuit voltage generated by a solar panel in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[00069] At step 402, with respect to FIG. 4A, the method can include the step of establishing a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min) of the load, and at step 404, the method can include the step of establishing a current open circuit voltage (VOC-curr) of the solar panel based on voltage of incoming solar voltage from solar panel. At step 406, the method can include the step of switching on of the load when the VOC-curr is greater than VOC-min, and at step 408, performance of the load can be assessed at VOC-curr such that when the load performance meets desired performance, at step 410, the load can be continued to be operated at VOC-curr, else at step 412, the load is switched off. At step 414, switch-on voltage threshold (VOC-switchon_threshold) can be updated based on VOC-curr and an offset value, and at step 416, the method can periodically decrement and update the VOC-switchon_threshold based on a decrement voltage (Vdec) such that the load is switched on either when incoming solar voltage is greater than the updated VOC-switchon_threshold, or when incoming solar voltage is greater than VOC-min and the updated VOC-switchon_threshold has decremented to a value lower than VOC-min.
[00070] At step 452, with respect to FIG. 4B, the method can include the step of establishing a minimum open circuit voltage (VOC-min) of the load, and at step 454, measuring short circuit current (Isc) of the solar panel when an incoming solar voltage increases and crosses the VOC-min. At step 456, the method can include the step of switching on the load when the Isc is greater than a defined short circuit current threshold value (Isc-threshold). At step 458, performance of the load at Isc is assessed such that when the load performance does not meet desired performance, at step 460, the load is switched off, else, at step 462, the load is continued to be operated at Isc.
[00071] As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the term "coupled to" is intended to include both direct coupling (in which two elements that are coupled to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms "coupled to" and "coupled with" are used synonymously. Within the context of this document terms "coupled to" and "coupled with" are also used euphemistically to mean “communicatively coupled with” over a network, where two or more devices are able to exchange data with each other over the network, possibly via one or more intermediary device.
[00072] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of the appended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced. Where the specification claims refers to at least one of something selected from the group consisting of A, B, C ….and N, the text should be interpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N, or B plus N, etc.

ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION
[00073] The present disclosure provides a solar power controller system for estimating power output strength of a solar panel, and controlling power supply to an attached load based on the estimated power output strength.
[00074] The present disclosure provides a solar power controller that can control power supply from a solar panel to an attached load based on variable power demand by the attached load and variable power supply generated by the power source.
[00075] The present disclosure provides a method for detecting power output strength of a solar panel, and controlling power supply to an attached load.
[00076] The present disclosure provides a power controller system that can sense power generated by a power source that has a variable output power, and control the power supply to an attached load based on the sensed output power generated by the power source.
[00077] The present disclosure provides a solar power controller system and method thereof for optimally operating an attached load based on sensed power generated by a solar panel so as to protect the attached load and run the attached load as soon as power generated by the solar panel is equal to minimum power required for running the attached load.
[00078] The present disclosure provides a power controller system and method for providing safety to an attached load, and switching off the power supply as soon as generated power is less than a predefined threshold of power required to operate the attached load.
[00079] The present disclosure provides a system to update/optimize/regulate threshold value used by a controller to switch ON/OFF power supply to an attached load.