Current Focus
Exploring eletrical systems, manufacuting practices, and subniches of science.
Learning & Notes
This is a place for reflections, lessons, and ideas I’m collecting as I build.
Recent Learnings
Notes on design process, web experimentation, and new developments in the world of engineering.
Coming Soon
More posts, essays, and breakdowns will appear here as this space grows.
Inverter for Grid Connected Photovoltaic Systems
In the most straightforward sense the system takes direct current (DC) from solar panels (photovoltaic systems) and converts it to compatible alternating current (AC). Why? DC is generated by a solar panel, it's easily stored in power banks, and it provides constant power to devices like phones. DC is like a heavy wheel of parmesan cheese; it provides a consistent cheese amount until you run out. However the electrical grid runs mostly on AC, due to easy voltage manipulation and its ability to traverse long distances. The inverter uses electronic switches to convert DC into AC. Imagine a kid at swim class kicking their legs super fast, as one leg goes down the other launches itself up. This is the inverter disrupting the direction of the current. H-Bridges, specifically Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistors, are typically used for this due their the ability to handle high voltage and high current capacity. The inverter will continuously use the maximum power point tracking algorithm to ensure the optimal voltage and current are achieved to get the maximum power feasible from the solar panels. If the line goes down then anti-islanding will go into effect cutting off the inverter from the grid. Imagine the inverter as a chameleon that blends with its environment adapting to a myriad of situations. This let the chameleon thrive while protecting itself.