JP4031420B2 - Photovoltaic generator design support device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to designing assistance apparatus of a solar power generator using the solar cell that generates electricity and light such as sunlight as an energy source.

  FIG. 24 is a block diagram showing a conventional photovoltaic power generation apparatus 10. The solar power generation device 10 includes a plurality of solar cell modules 1 (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as modules) and a power conditioner 5.

  The solar cell module 1 is disposed on a roof surface 2 of a building and connected in series to each other to constitute solar cell strings 3a and 3b (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as strings). The solar power generation device 10 has a plurality of strings 3a and 3b. The strings 3a and 3b are connected to the power conditioner 4 in parallel. The power conditioner 5 converts the DC power input from the strings 3 a and 3 b into AC power, and supplies the converted AC power to the household device 6.

  The solar power generation device 10 of the prior art may be provided with a voltage regulator that adjusts the input voltages supplied from the plurality of strings 3a and 3b to the power conditioner 5 to be equal (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  When designing the solar power generation device 10, it is necessary to create a wiring path 7 that connects the modules 1 to each other. In order to create the wiring path 7, first, system decomposition is performed. The system decomposition is to group the plurality of modules 1 arranged on the roof surface 2 into one or more strings 3a and 3b.

JP-A-8-46231

  In the power conditioner 5, the power conversion efficiency is higher when the applied output voltages are uniform than when the output voltages are not constant. Specifically, a string having an output voltage of 8V and a string having an output voltage of 12V are connected to the power conditioner 5 in parallel, and two strings having an output voltage of 10V are connected to the power conditioner 5 in parallel. Comparing with the case, the former total voltage is 8 + 12 = 20V, and the latter total voltage is 10 × 2 = 20V. However, the latter in which the value of the output voltage of each string is uniform increases the conversion efficiency, and the power output from the power conditioner 5 increases. Therefore, in order to increase the output power of the power conditioner 5, the output voltage of each string should be made as uniform as possible.

  The roof surface 2 on which the module 1 is arranged is formed in various shapes. For example, in order to obtain a high power generation capability, when the photovoltaic power generation apparatus 10 increases the light receiving area for receiving sunlight as much as possible and attempts to make the output voltages of the strings 3a and 3b uniform, the string 3a , 3b may be complicated.

  As shown in FIG. 24, when the output voltages of the strings 3a and 3b are made uniform, the boundary line 4 between the two adjacent strings 3a and 3b may be bent in a step shape and extend. In this case, in the vicinity of the boundary between the two strings, there is a high possibility of making a mistake such as electrically connecting the module belonging to one string 3a and the module belonging to the other string 3b.

Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a design support apparatus for a photovoltaic power generation apparatus that creates a wiring path of a solar cell module that makes it easy to connect modules without greatly reducing power conversion efficiency. .

The present invention is output by a plurality of solar cell modules arranged in a predetermined arrangement region in a predetermined row direction and a column direction intersecting on one plane and a plurality of solar cell modules connected in series with each other. A design support device for supporting the design of a photovoltaic power generation device comprising power conversion means for converting DC power to be converted into AC power,
The output voltage information on the output voltage of each solar cell module, an acquisition unit and the specified voltage range of the power conversion unit, the solar cell modules of the arrangement area acquires the position information of the individual areas each of which is arranged separately ,
Based on the output voltage information of the solar cell module, each solar cell module that can be arranged in the arrangement region is grouped into a plurality of solar cell strings, and the total value of the output voltages of the solar cell modules belonging to each solar cell string is String combination creating means for creating a combination of solar cell strings that fall within a specified voltage range;
Based on the position information of each individual region, the arrangement region is divided into a plurality of divided regions by dividing lines extending in the row direction or the column direction, and belongs to one or more solar cell strings based on the combination of the solar cell strings Each solar cell string is assigned to each divided region so that the total value of the output voltage of the solar cell module is equal to the total value of the output voltage of the solar cell modules that can be arranged in the divided region. Wiring path creation means for creating a wiring path for connecting the solar cell modules to which the module belongs in series ;
A design support apparatus of the photovoltaic power generation apparatus characterized by comprising a result output unit for wiring route creating means outputs the routing created.

  According to the present invention, solar cell modules are connected in series according to the created wiring path to form each solar cell string. Since the total value of the output voltages of the solar cell modules belonging to each solar cell string falls within the specified voltage range of the power conversion means, the solar cell string outputs the output voltage within the specified voltage range of the power conversion means, It is possible to prevent the power conversion efficiency of the power generation apparatus from greatly decreasing.

Further , the arrangement region is divided into a plurality of divided regions by dividing lines extending in the row direction or the column direction, and each solar cell string is assigned to each divided region. Thus among the solar cell modules belonging to a solar cell string, Ru can align the solar cell modules adjacent to another solar cell string in a straight line. Thereby, the connection mistake which connects the solar cell module which belongs to one solar cell string among two, and the solar cell module which belongs to the other solar cell string among two can be reduced.

Further , by associating the divided regions with the solar cell strings, the solar cell modules belonging to one or more solar cell strings can be arranged in the divided regions without excess or deficiency. Accordingly, each solar cell string can be easily assigned to the arrangement region so that the solar cell modules arranged along the boundary between at least two adjacent solar cell strings in the arrangement region are aligned in the row direction or the column direction. .

  Further, by sequentially changing the combinations of the divided areas in the arrangement area, it is possible to search many combinations of the divided areas and the one or more solar cell strings, and obtain a plurality of assignments in the arrangement area of the solar cell strings. In addition, you can choose a more optimal assignment.

According to the present invention, the wiring path creation means is configured such that one solar cell string is assigned to each divided region or the total value of the output voltages of the solar cell modules arranged in each divided region is one or more. The division of the arrangement region into a plurality of divided regions is repeated until it cannot be assigned to be equal to the total output voltage of the solar cell modules belonging to the solar cell string.

  According to the present invention, by repeatedly dividing the arrangement region and dividing the arrangement region into a plurality of division regions, the number of locations where the wiring path extends linearly near the boundary between the two solar cell strings is increased as much as possible. It is possible to create a wiring path that can further reduce the connection mistake of the solar cell module.

  Moreover, the present invention is characterized in that the output voltage information is different for each type of solar cell module in which at least one of shape and output voltage is different.

  According to the present invention, by using different information for each type of solar cell module in which at least one of the shape and the output voltage is different, even if the information about the output voltage is different for each type of solar cell module, the wiring A route can be created.

The present invention further includes conditioner combination creating means for creating a combination of power conversion means,
The acquisition means acquires the output current of each solar cell module, acquires the number of input terminals, the specified power range and the specified current range for each type of power conversion means,
The conditioner combination creating means is configured such that, for each combination of solar cell strings that fall within the specified voltage range, the number of solar cell strings is equal to or less than the number of input terminals, and solar cell modules belonging to each solar cell string are connected in series. A combination of power conversion means for each combination of solar cell strings is created so that the output power value and the output current value in each case fall within the specified power range and the specified current range, respectively.

  According to the present invention, by using a combination of power conversion means for each combination of solar cell strings to be created, the solar cell string has an output power and an output current that fall within the specified power range and the specified current range of the power conversion means. Is output. As a result, the output of the solar cell string can be reliably supplied to the power conversion means. Further, by making the number of input terminals of the power conversion means larger than the number of solar cell strings, it is possible to eliminate the generation of excessive solar cell strings that cannot be connected to the power conversion means.

In the present invention, the acquisition unit acquires cost information about the cost for each type of power conversion unit,
The conditioner combination creation means creates a combination of power conversion means for each combination of solar cell strings so that the cost of the power conversion means is low based on the cost information.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to configure a solar power generation device using power conversion means that is inexpensive, and further prevent a solar cell module connection error while preventing a large decrease in power conversion efficiency. Production costs can be reduced.

Further, in the present invention, the acquisition unit acquires the power conversion efficiency of the power conversion unit indicating the efficiency of the output power with respect to the input power,
The conditioner combination creating means obtains an output power value that is output when solar cell modules belonging to each solar cell string are connected in series for each combination of solar cell strings, and determines the power conversion efficiency of the power conversion unit. based on, characterized by creating a combination of the power conversion means for each combination of each solar cell string.

  According to the present invention, a solar power generation device with high power conversion efficiency can be configured, and a wiring path with high power conversion efficiency can be obtained after preventing a connection error of solar cell modules.

In the present invention, the wiring route creation means may include a wiring route in which a total value of total lengths of boundary lines between the solar cell strings arranged adjacent to the placement region is shortened among the created wiring routes. It is characterized by selecting .

According to the present invention, among the created wiring paths, 2 is selected by selecting a wiring path in which the total value of the total length of the boundary lines between the solar cell strings arranged adjacent to the arrangement region is shortened. It is possible to further reduce connection mistakes such as connecting a solar cell module belonging to one of the two solar cell strings and a solar cell module belonging to the other of the two solar cell strings.

Moreover, this invention is a program for functioning a computer as a design support apparatus of the said photovoltaic power generation apparatus.

According to the present invention, it is possible to cause a computer to function as a design support apparatus for the photovoltaic power generation apparatus. The computer that executes the program acquires information to be acquired such as output voltage information, specified voltage range, and position information of the individual areas, so that the wiring path of the photovoltaic power generation apparatus can be created in a short time.

The present invention is a computer-readable storage medium in which the program is recorded.
According to the present invention, that the computer can read the program stored in the storage medium can be a computer to function as a design support apparatus of the photovoltaic device.

  In addition, by arranging the solar cell modules facing the boundary between at least two solar cell strings adjacent in the arrangement region in the row direction or the column direction, the wiring path connecting the solar cell modules in series is linear in the vicinity of the boundary. Can be extended to zigzag. Thereby, the connection mistake which connects the solar cell module which belongs to one solar cell string among two, and the solar cell module which belongs to the other solar cell string among two can be reduced.

  As described above, according to the present invention, each solar cell string outputs an output voltage within the specified voltage range of the power conversion means by configuring the solar cell string according to the wiring path to be created, and the solar power generation device The power conversion efficiency can be prevented from greatly decreasing. As a result, the power output as AC power can be increased, and the power generation efficiency can be improved.

  Moreover, the connection mistake of a solar cell module can be prevented by making the wiring path | route which connects each solar cell module mutually straight at the boundary vicinity. This makes it possible to construct the solar power generation device easily and in a short time.

In addition , by associating the divided regions with the solar cell strings, the solar cell modules arranged along the boundary between at least two adjacent solar cell strings in the arrangement region can be easily aligned in the row direction or the column direction. Can be assigned.

  Further, by sequentially changing the combinations of the divided areas in the arrangement area, it is possible to search for many combinations of associations between the divided areas and the one or more solar cell strings, and to allocate the solar cell strings in the arrangement area. It is possible to select a more optimal allocation after obtaining a plurality of.

  In addition, according to the present invention, by repeatedly dividing the arrangement region and dividing the arrangement region into a plurality of division regions, a location where the wiring path extends linearly near the boundary between the two solar cell strings is made as much as possible. It is possible to create a wiring path that can be increased and that can further reduce connection mistakes in the solar cell module. As a result, it is possible to create a wiring route capable of constructing the photovoltaic power generation apparatus more easily and in a short time.

  Further, according to the present invention, by using different information for each type of solar cell module, it is possible to create a wiring path even when the information regarding the output voltage is different for each type of solar cell module. This can improve convenience.

  Further, according to the present invention, by using a combination of power conversion means for each combination of solar cell strings to be created, the solar cell string outputs output power within a specified power range of the power conversion means, and power An output current within the specified current range of the conversion means is output. As a result, the output power of the solar cell string can be reliably supplied to the power conversion means. Further, by making the number of input terminals of the power conversion means larger than the number of solar cell strings, it is possible to eliminate the generation of excessive solar cell strings that cannot be connected to the power conversion means.

  Further, according to the present invention, it is possible to configure a solar power generation device using power conversion means that is low in cost, and after preventing a large decrease in power conversion efficiency and preventing a solar cell module connection error, Furthermore, production costs can be reduced.

  Moreover, according to this invention, the solar power generation device from which power conversion efficiency becomes high can be comprised, and after preventing the connection mistake of a solar cell module, power conversion efficiency can be enlarged.

According to the present invention, among the created wiring paths, by selecting a wiring path that reduces the total value of the total length of the boundary lines between the solar cell strings arranged adjacent to the arrangement region , It is possible to further reduce connection mistakes such as connecting a solar cell module belonging to one of the two solar cell strings and a solar cell module belonging to the other of the two solar cell strings.

Moreover, according to this invention, a computer can be functioned as a design assistance apparatus of the said solar power generation device. The computer that executes the program acquires information to be acquired such as output voltage information, specified voltage range, and position information of the individual areas, so that the wiring path of the photovoltaic power generation apparatus can be created in a short time.

Moreover, according to this invention, a computer can be functioned as a design assistance apparatus of the said photovoltaic power generation apparatus , when a computer reads the program of a storage medium.

  FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing a design procedure for a photovoltaic power generation apparatus 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the solar power generation device 20. FIG. 3 is an enlarged plan view showing one roof surface 22a among the plurality of roof surfaces 22a and 22b.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the solar power generation device 20 includes a solar cell module 21 (hereinafter may be simply referred to as a module) and a power conditioner 23 that is power conversion means.

  Each module 21 is arrange | positioned, for example on the roof surfaces 22a and 22b of a house for houses. The module 21 generates direct-current power by receiving sunlight as a light energy source. Since the solar power generation device 20 includes a plurality of types of modules 21, even if the roof surfaces 22a and 22b have various shapes, the solar power generation device 20 has as much light receiving area as possible to receive sunlight. Can be spread.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the arrangement | positioning area | region 24 where the module 21 is arrange | positioned is formed in the roof surface 22a. In the arrangement region 24, a large-sized solar cell module 21a and small-shaped solar cell modules 21b and 21c are arranged, respectively. By arranging the large-sized solar cell module 21a, it is possible to reduce the number of man-hours for installing the module as compared with the case where only the small-shaped solar cell modules 21b and 21c are used. In addition, the light receiving area can be increased by disposing the small-shaped solar cell modules 21b and 21c in a narrow region where the large-shaped solar cell module 21a cannot be disposed. Further, modules having a high power generation capacity per area and so-called placement efficiency may be mixed with modules that are not so arranged in the placement region 24. Each module 21a, 21b may be arranged on a plurality of roof surfaces 22a, 22b.

  A plurality of modules 21 are connected in series to form a solar cell string 25 (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as a string). As illustrated in FIG. 3, the solar power generation device 20 includes a plurality of strings 25 a to 25 d, and each of the strings 25 a to 25 d is connected to the power conditioner 23 in parallel. Therefore, the solar power generation device 20 connects the wiring path 26 that connects each module 21 in series, the string 25, and the power conditioner 23 for each of the strings 25a to 25d, and uses the power generated by the module 21 as power. A transmission path 40 that communicates to the conditioner 23 is formed.

  The power conditioner 23 changes the DC power supplied from the string 25 into an AC current, and further stabilizes, transforms, and converts the current into a power state that can be used by the household electrical appliance 28, and converts it into a home state. It supplies to the electrical equipment 28.

  The power conditioner 23 may be provided with an independent booster circuit (not shown) at least at one of input terminals to which the output power of each string 25 is applied. By providing each booster circuit, the range of the specified voltage that can be input to the power conditioner 23 can be expanded. As a result, even when the input voltages input from the strings 25 are not so uniform, it is possible to prevent the power conversion efficiency from greatly decreasing.

  Therefore, it is not necessary to strictly align the output voltages of the strings 25, and the degree of freedom in selecting the modules 21 connected in series as the strings 25 can be increased as compared with the case where no booster circuit is provided. The solar power generation device 20 has one or a plurality of power conditioners 23 corresponding to the plurality of strings 25.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a design support apparatus 100 that supports the design of the photovoltaic power generation apparatus 20 of the present invention. The design support apparatus 100 of the present invention creates a wiring path 26 that connects the modules 21 arranged in the arrangement region 24 in series.

  The design support apparatus 100 includes an arrangement information acquisition unit 101, a conditioner information acquisition unit 102, a module information acquisition unit 103, a string combination generation unit 104, a conditioner combination generation unit 105, and a string combination prioritization unit 106. And a wiring path creation means 107 and a result output means 108.

  FIG. 5 is a front view showing the roof surface 22a before the solar cell module 21 is arranged. The arrangement information acquisition unit 101 acquires arrangement information. The arrangement information is information relating to the arrangement of each solar cell module 21. For example, the arrangement information includes position information and shape information of the individual area 29 where each module 21 is individually arranged. The arrangement area 24 is divided into a plurality of individual areas 29. The individual areas 29 are aligned and arranged in a predetermined row direction X and column direction Y that intersect on a predetermined plane.

  In the solar power generation device 20 of the present embodiment, there are three types of individual areas 29, first to third individual areas 29a, 29b, and 29c. The first individual region 29a is formed in a substantially square shape. The second and third individual regions 29b and 29c have a half area of the first individual region 29a and are formed in a substantially right triangle shape. The second individual region 29b and the third individual region 29c are formed in a symmetrical shape with respect to the column direction Y. The arrangement region 24 is formed in a trapezoidal shape, the second individual region is arranged along one oblique side of the trapezoidal shape, and the third individual region is arranged along the other oblique side of the trapezoidal shape. The hypotenuse of the second individual area extends along one hypotenuse of the arrangement area. Further, the hypotenuse of the third individual area extends along the other hypotenuse of the arrangement area.

  A corresponding type of solar cell module 21 is arranged in each of the individual regions 29a to 29c. The arrangement information includes normal information that is the normal direction of the individual region 29. The normal direction of each individual area formed on the same roof surface is equal.

  The conditioner information acquisition unit 102 acquires conditioner information. The conditioner information is information related to the power conditioner 23 used in the solar power generation device 20. The conditioner information includes information on the specified voltage range, specified power range, specified current range, power conversion efficiency, number of input terminals, and price of the power conditioner 23.

  The specified voltage range, specified power range, and specified current range are electrical specified input ranges that can be input to the power conditioner 23, and indicate an upper limit value and a lower limit value. For example, in the present embodiment, the specified voltage range of the power conditioner 23 is 6 volts or more and 12 volts or less regardless of the type of the power conditioner 23. The specified power range and the specified current range differ depending on the type of the power conditioner 23. For example, the specified voltage range is 1700 watts or more and 3949 watts or less, and the specified current range is 22.5 amperes or less. is there.

  The number of input terminals indicates the number of strings 25 that can be connected to the power conditioner 23. The power conversion efficiency indicates a correspondence relationship between output power output from the power conditioner 23 and input power input to the power conditioner 23.

For example, the power conversion efficiency can be derived by obtaining the reduction rate. The rate of decrease in power conversion efficiency is expressed by the following equation.
Eu = φ · R

 In the above equation, Eu represents a rate of decrease related to power conversion of the power conditioner 23. R represents a variation value obtained by a predetermined calculation method, and φ represents a reduction rate per unit variation value. The variation value R is obtained by the following equation.

In the above formula, V _max represents the output voltage of the string having the highest output voltage among the strings connected to the power conditioner 23. V _min represents the output voltage of the string having the lowest output voltage among the strings connected to the power conditioner 23.

  According to the above equation, when the deviation of the output voltage of each string connected to the power conditioner 23 is small, the reduction rate of the power conversion efficiency is small, and the conversion efficiency of the power conditioner is high. In addition, when the voltage is adjusted by a voltage regulator that adjusts the voltage so that the voltages applied to the power conditioner 23 from a plurality of strings are equal, the decrease rate φ per unit variation value is regarded as zero.

  FIG. 6 is a graph showing the power conversion efficiency of the power conditioner. FIG. 6 shows the relationship between the total power supplied from each string and the conversion efficiency for three types of power conditioners 23 having different numbers of input terminals. In the power conditioner 23, the power conversion efficiency is improved as the total amount of supplied power increases. Note that a plurality of power conditioners 23 or a single power conditioner 23 may be provided. The specified voltage range may be different for each type of power conditioner.

  The module information acquisition unit 103 acquires module information that is information regarding each solar cell module 21 used in the solar power generation device 20. The module information includes information on the output voltage of each module, information on the output power and output current, and information on the shape.

  In the solar power generation device 20 of the present embodiment, three types of solar cell modules 21a, 21b, and 21c corresponding to the individual regions 29a, 29b, and 29c described above are used, and the first solar cell having a substantially square plate shape. It includes a module 21a, a second solar cell module 21b having a substantially right triangular plate shape, and a third solar cell module 21c having a substantially right triangular plate shape.

  The first solar cell module 21a has a shape corresponding to the first individual region 29a, the output voltage output during power generation is 1 volt, the output power is 98 watts, and the output current is 4.88 amperes. The second solar cell module 21b has a shape corresponding to the second individual region 29b, and the third solar cell module 21c has a shape corresponding to the third individual region 29c. The output voltage output during power generation of the second and third solar cell modules 21b and 21c is 0.5 volts, the output power is 49 watts, and the output current is 4.88 amperes.

  Table 1 shows the number of solar cell modules for each type that can be arranged in the arrangement region 24 of the roof surface 22a shown in FIG. 5 in the present embodiment. The arrangement area 24 of the roof surface 22a shown in FIG. 5 is formed in a substantially trapezoidal shape. Based on the shape of each module 21a-21c and the position information of each individual area 29a-29c, the number of each module 21a-21c that can be arranged in the arrangement area 24 can be obtained.

  The number of modules 21a to 21c that can be arranged in the arrangement area 24 may be included in the module information in advance. When modules 21 are arranged on a plurality of roof surfaces 22a and 22b, the number of modules 21a to 21c that can be arranged for each of the roof surfaces 22a and 22b is included in the module information in advance.

  The string combination creating unit 104 groups the modules 21a, 21b, and 21c into a plurality of strings 25, and creates a combination of strings. Table 2 shows an example of a combination of strings of the roof surface 22a in the present embodiment. The combination of strings is information including the number of each module type grouped into a plurality of strings. In some cases, the combination of strings is a combination of only the output voltages of each grouped string.

  As described above, the combination of strings is a combination in which the modules 21 that can be arranged in the arrangement region 24 are grouped into a plurality of strings. Therefore, for each combination of strings, the total number of modules 21 belonging to all the strings is totaled by type, and the total number of modules 21 that can be arranged in the arrangement area 24 is equal to the total number. That is, the total number shown in Table 2 is equal to the total number shown in Table 1.

  Specifically, the combination of strings shown in Table 2 is composed of first to fourth strings. The first and second strings are composed of 11 first solar cell modules 21a. The third string includes nine first solar cell modules 21a and five second solar cell modules 21b. The fourth string includes nine first solar cell modules 21a and five third solar cell modules 21c.

  The total number of modules of the first string to the fourth string for each type is 40 for the first solar cell module 21a, 5 for the second solar cell module 21b, and 5 for the third solar cell module 21c. This is equal to the number of sheets of each type shown in Table 1.

  The conditioner combination unit 105 creates a combination of power conditioners that can be configured as the photovoltaic power generation apparatus 20 for each combination of strings, based on the creation result of the string combination creation unit 104 and the conditioner information.

  The string combination prioritizing means 106 ranks the combinations of strings in the order of the cheapest and higher conversion efficiency among the combinations of strings based on the creation result of the string combination creating means 104 and the conditioner information. Attach.

  The wiring path creation means 107 determines the wiring path 26 that connects the modules 21 belonging to each string in series for each combination of strings. The result output unit 108 outputs the wiring path created by the wiring path creation unit 107.

  FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a specific configuration for realizing the design support apparatus 100. The design support apparatus 100 is realized by a design support computer 40, for example. The design support computer 40 includes a memory 41 in which an operation program is stored, an arithmetic device 42 that executes the operation program stored in the memory 41, and design information including any of module information, arrangement information, and conditioner information. It includes a hard disk 43 that is stored in a database, an input device 44 to which the design information is input from a designer, and an output device 45 that outputs the created wiring path.

  The input device 44 is realized by a keyboard, a mouse that is a pointing device, a scanner, or the like that allows a designer to input information to the design support computer 40. The output device 45 is realized by an image display device such as a display or an image forming device such as a printer. Further, the design support computer 40 may include a recording medium reading device 46 capable of reading data stored in the recording medium 48 and a network connection device 47 for connecting to a network.

  In the design support apparatus 100, the arrangement information acquisition unit 101, the conditioner information acquisition unit 102, and the module information acquisition unit 103 illustrated in FIG. 4 may be combined with the input device 44 illustrated in FIG. In addition, each acquisition unit 101, 102, 103 may acquire from information stored in the hard disk 43.

  Further, the string combination creating unit 104, the conditioner combination creating unit 105, the string combination prioritizing unit 106, and the wiring path creating unit 107 shown in FIG. 4 have an operation program stored in the memory 41 by the arithmetic unit 42 shown in FIG. It is realized by executing. 4 is realized by the output device 45 shown in FIG.

  The design information and the operation program may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium 48. In this case, the arithmetic device 42 reads information stored in the storage medium 48 by the storage medium reader 46. When the design support computer 40 can be connected to the network, the design information and the operation program may be stored in a storage device provided in a server or another computer connected through the network.

  The design support apparatus 100 operates according to the design procedure shown in FIG. 1 and creates a wiring route for the photovoltaic power generation apparatus 20. The operation of the design support apparatus 100 will be described with reference to FIG. First, in step s0, the design support apparatus 100 is in a standby state. The design support apparatus 100 proceeds to step s1 when an instruction to create the wiring path 26 is given, and starts the operation of creating the wiring path 26.

  In step s1, design information to be acquired is acquired using each of the acquisition units 101, 102, and 103. Specifically, the arrangement information, conditioner information, and module information are acquired by the arrangement information acquisition unit 101, the conditioner information acquisition unit 102, and the module information acquisition unit 103, respectively. If each information is acquired, it will progress to step s2.

  In step s2, the string combination creating unit 104 groups the modules 21a, 21b, and 21c into a plurality of strings based on the module information, the arrangement information, and the conditioner information, and creates a plurality of string combinations. Proceed to s3.

  In step s3, the conditioner combination creating means 105 creates a combination of the power conditioners 23 for each combination of strings obtained in step s2, and the process proceeds to step s4. In step s4, the string combination prioritizing means 106 prioritizes according to a predetermined rule from among the plurality of string combinations created in step s2, and proceeds to step s5.

  In step s5, the wiring path creation means 107 creates a combination of a plurality of wiring paths 26 in the order of priority of the combination of strings created in step s4, and determines the optimum wiring path 26 according to a predetermined rule. Proceed to In step s6, the result output means 108 outputs the wiring path 26 determined in step s5, and proceeds to step s7. In step s7, the design support apparatus 100 ends the operation of creating the wiring path 26.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a specific operation procedure of step s2 shown in FIG. In step s2, the string combination creating means 104 creates as many as possible a combination of strings in which each solar cell module is grouped into a plurality of strings.

  First, when each acquisition unit 101, 102, 103 acquires each design information in step a0, the process proceeds to step a1, and the string combination generation unit 104 starts a string combination generation operation.

  In step a1, the specified voltage range of the power conditioner 23 is acquired based on the conditioner information, and the process proceeds to step a2. In step a2, a sunshine-like area is created based on the normal information of the individual area 29 in the arrangement information, and the process proceeds to step a3. The sunshine-similar area is constituted by the arrangement area 24 whose normal direction is substantially the same.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 2, when there are a plurality of roof surfaces 22a and 22b having the same direction, the individual regions 29 formed on the roof surfaces 22a and 22b having the same direction are grouped as one sunshine-like region. Therefore, when the solar cell modules are arranged on a plurality of roof surfaces having different directions, the string combination creating unit 104 creates a plurality of sunshine-like regions.

  The power generation capacity of the solar cell module changes depending on the sunlight. The direction of the roof is almost the same if the direction of the roof surface, that is, the normal is almost the same direction, but if the direction of the roof surface is different (for example, facing south and east), the sunlight is different and the power generation capacity is different. End up. When the solar cell modules having different power generation capacities are included in one string, the power generation efficiency is lowered. Therefore, it is preferable that the solar cell modules belonging to one string are composed of solar cell modules arranged in one sunshine-like region.

  In step a3, based on the module information and the arrangement information, the number of modules that can be arranged without excess or deficiency for each sunshine-like area is calculated, and the process proceeds to step a4. In the case where there are a plurality of sunshine-similar areas, one string may be allocated across two sunshine-similar areas as long as it is within the allowable range of the inverter. A plurality of strings arranged in different sunshine-like areas may be connected to one inverter.

  For example, when the sunshine-similar area matches the arrangement area 24 shown in FIG. 5, the number of modules by type that can be arranged in the sunshine-similar area without excess or deficiency is shown in Table 1, and the first solar cell module There are 40 pieces of 21a, 5 pieces of second solar cell modules 21b, and 5 pieces of third solar cell modules 21c.

  In step a4, on the condition that the power conditioner 23 falls within the specified power range, the solar cell modules that can be arranged without excess or deficiency in the sunshine-like region are grouped into a plurality of strings. The string combination creating unit 104 obtains as many string combinations as possible and proceeds to step a5. In each string grouped, the output voltage output as a string, that is, the total value of the output voltages of the modules belonging to the string becomes a value within the specified power range. For example, Tables 3 to 5 show examples of combinations of strings other than the combinations of strings shown in Table 2.

  In step a5, except for one combination of strings, the remaining ones are deleted so that the output voltages of the strings are the same combination. The output voltage of the string is a value obtained by adding all the output voltage values of the modules belonging to the string.

  For example, in the case of the combination of strings shown in Table 2, the output voltage of the first string and the second string is 11 × 1 + 0 × 0.5 + 0 × 0.5 = 11 volts, and the output voltage of the third string is 9 × 1 + 5 × 0. .5 + 0 × 0.5 = 11.5 volts, and the output voltage of the fourth string is 9 × 1 + 0 × 0.5 + 5 × 0.5 = 11.5 volts. Therefore, the combination of strings shown in Table 2 can be said to be a combination of two strings having an output voltage of 11V and two strings having an output voltage of 11.5V.

  Here, a combination of strings shown in Table 6 is considered as another combination of strings. The combination of strings shown in Table 6 is composed of first to fourth strings. The first string of this string combination consists of ten first solar cell modules 21a and two second solar cell modules 21b. The second string includes 10 first solar cell modules 21a and 3 second solar cell modules 21b. The third string is composed of ten second solar cell modules 21a and two third solar cell modules 21c. The fourth string is composed of ten first solar cell modules 21a and three third solar cell modules 21c.

  In the case of the string combinations shown in Table 6, the output voltage of the first string is 11V, the output voltage of the second string is 11.5V, the output voltage of the third string is 11V, and the output voltage of the fourth string is 11.5V. is there. Therefore, the combination of strings shown in Table 6 can be said to be a combination of two strings having an output voltage of 11V and two strings having an output voltage of 11.5V.

  In step a5, the order of the first string to the fourth string is irrelevant. Therefore, since the combination of strings shown in Table 2 and the combination of strings shown in Table 6 are combinations of strings in which the output voltages of the strings are the same, one combination of Table 2 and Table 6 is used. Leave the remaining string combinations to delete.

  Modules belonging to each string so as to satisfy the total voltage of each string in the wiring path creation procedure of step s5 described later even if the combination of the output voltage combinations of each string is deleted from among a plurality of string combinations Is assigned. In other words, in the processing from step s3 to step s5, processing is performed based only on the voltage of each string, and therefore, a plurality of combinations of strings having the same voltage for each string are not required.

  Therefore, in step a5, the combination of strings extracted by the computer may be any one of a plurality of combinations in which the output voltage of each string is the same and the types of modules are different. By deleting a part from the combination of a plurality of strings created in this way, the subsequent processing can be speeded up.

  The combination of strings shown in Table 3 is composed of two strings with an output voltage of 10.5V and two strings with an output voltage of 12V. The combination of strings shown in Table 4 includes three strings with an output voltage of 11V and one string with an output voltage of 12V.

  Therefore, the combination of strings shown in Table 2 is not the same as the combination of output voltages for each string. Therefore, the combination of strings shown in Table 2 and the combination of strings shown in Table 3 are one string. It is not a combination of

  When a combination of strings in which the total value of the output voltages of the modules belonging to each string is not the same is extracted from the plurality of combinations of strings, the process proceeds to step a6.

  In step a6, the combination of a plurality of strings left in step a5 is combined for each sunshine-like region to create a combination of strings for each photovoltaic power generation apparatus 20. For example, when the first and second sunlight similar regions are created, and there are five string combinations in the first sunlight similar region and six string combinations in the second sunlight similar region, As for the combinations of the strings of the solar power generation devices, a total of 5 × 6 = 30 combinations are required.

  When the string combination creating unit 104 creates all the combinations of strings of the respective photovoltaic power generation apparatuses, the process proceeds to step a7 and ends the string combination creating operation. When the string combination creating unit 104 creates a string combination according to the procedure shown in FIG. 8, the design support apparatus 100 proceeds to step s3 shown in FIG.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a specific operation procedure of step s3 shown in FIG. In step s3, the conditioner combination creating means 105 creates a combination of power conditioners used as a solar power generation device. FIG. 10 is a system diagram showing an example of each combination in the conditioner combination operation.

  First, in step b0, when the string combination creating unit 104 creates all the combinations of strings of the respective photovoltaic power generation devices, the process proceeds to step b1, and the conditioner combination creating unit 105 starts the conditioner combination creating operation.

  In step b1, all the strings included in the combinations 201 and 202 can be connected to each of the string combinations 201 and 202 of the photovoltaic power generation apparatus created by the string combination creating unit 104 based on the number of input terminals of the conditioner information. All the inverter combinations 203, 204, 205, and 206 are created, and the process proceeds to step b2.

  For example, the power conditioner combination creating unit 105 selects a combination of power conditioners in which the total value of the number of input terminals of one or more power conditioners is larger than the number of strings to be grouped for each combination of strings. create.

  In step b2, for each power conditioner combination 203, 204, 205, 206 to which all the strings can be connected, all of the connection combinations 207 to 214 indicating which string is connected to which input terminal of which power conditioner. Create and proceed to step b3.

  In step b3, a connection condition that satisfies a predetermined connection condition is extracted for each of the connection combinations 207 to 212, and the process proceeds to step b4. In the present embodiment, for each power conditioner combination 203, 204, 205, 206 from a plurality of connection combinations 207 to 212, the output power and output current of the string are the specified power range and specified power of the power conditioner 23. Extract the combination of connections that will be in the current range. That is, for each power conditioner, the total power of the input strings and the total amount of current are within the power allowable range specific to the power conditioner, that is, between the upper limit value and the lower limit value of the input power, and the current allowable range. The combination of connections that are between the upper limit value and the lower limit value of the current capacity is extracted.

  In step b4, based on the power conversion efficiency, among the connection combinations created in step b3, when the output power of the string is given to the power conditioner, the connection that outputs the highest output power from the power conditioner And the process proceeds to step b5. As a result, one connection combination is determined for each power conditioner combination 203, 204, 205, 206.

  In step b5, for each of the string combinations 201 and 202 of each photovoltaic power generation apparatus, one power conditioner combination that is the cheapest is extracted. If there are a plurality of combinations of power conditioners having the same price, a combination having the highest power conversion efficiency is selected from among the cheapest combinations of power conditioners. As a result, one power conditioner combination can be determined for each of the string combinations 201 and 202 of each photovoltaic power generation apparatus, the process proceeds to step b6, and the conditioner creating operation is terminated.

  In this way, one combination of power conditioners and one combination of connections can be determined for each of the string combinations 201 and 202 of each photovoltaic power generation apparatus.

  When the conditioner combination creating means 105 creates a combination of conditioners according to the procedure shown in FIG. 9, the design support apparatus 100 proceeds to step s4 shown in FIG. In step s4, based on the creation result of the conditioner combination creating means 105, the string combination prioritizing means 106 has the lowest price of the corresponding power conditioner among the string combinations 201 and 202 of each photovoltaic power generator. The string combinations 201 and 202 of each photovoltaic power generation device are prioritized in order from the lowest. If there are a plurality of combinations of strings of the respective photovoltaic power generators having the same price of the power conditioner, a combination of strings having high power conversion efficiency is prioritized. Thus, when the priority order of the string combinations 201 and 202 of each photovoltaic power generation apparatus is set, the process proceeds to step s5 shown in FIG.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a specific operation procedure of step s5 shown in FIG. In step s5, the wiring path creation means 107 creates a wiring path that connects each solar cell module in series as a solar cell string. FIG. 12 is a system diagram showing an example of each combination in the wiring route creation operation.

  First, in step c0, when the string combination prioritizing unit 106 prioritizes the string combination of the photovoltaic power generation apparatus, the process proceeds to step c1, and the wiring route creation unit 107 starts a wiring route creation operation.

  In step c1, for each of the string combinations 201 and 202 of each photovoltaic power generation apparatus, assignment combinations 220, 221, 222, and 223 that indicate which string is assigned to which arrangement area 24 of the sunshine-like areas 601 and 602. Create all. When a plurality of arrangement areas are included in one sunshine-like area, one string may be allocated over a plurality of arrangement areas.

  When all the string assignment combinations 220, 221, 222, and 223 to be assigned to the arrangement areas are obtained for each of the string combinations 603 and 604 in the sunshine-like area, the process proceeds to step c2.

  In step c2, the arrangement area 24 is divided into a plurality of divided areas by dividing lines extending in the row direction X or the column direction Y based on the position information of the individual areas 29, and for each of the allocation combinations 220 to 223, One or a plurality of combinations of divided areas 224 to 229 in which one or more strings that can be arranged in the divided areas without excess or deficiency are created, and the process proceeds to step c3.

  In step c3, for each of the divided region combinations 224 to 229 created in step c2, a plurality of wiring path combinations 230 to 238 for connecting the solar cell modules belonging to the divided regions corresponding to each string in series are created. Proceed to In step c4, a wiring route that satisfies a predetermined condition to be described later is determined from among the wiring route combinations 230 to 238 created in step c3, and the operation proceeds to step c5 to end the operation. Steps c1 to c5 are a predetermined number of strings of photovoltaic power generators in the order of priority according to the priority of the string combinations 201 and 202 of photovoltaic power generators determined by the string combination prioritizing means 106. For the combination of

  FIG. 13 is a plan view showing a string 700 configured by connecting modules separated from each other. If it is impossible to construct a string simply by connecting adjacent modules, a string configured by connecting modules 701 and 702 that are separated from each other may be assigned. In this case, modules separated from each other are connected by connection lines, so-called jumper lines 703. Another string 704 is allocated between the two modules 701 and 702 connected by the jumper line 703.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart more specifically showing the procedure for combining the divided areas in step c2, and FIGS. 15 to 17 are plan views showing the roof surface 22a in order to explain the procedure for combining the divided areas. An example in which the combination of strings shown in Table 3 is assigned to the arrangement area 24 shown in FIG. 5 will be described.

  First, in step d0, when the operation of step c1 shown in FIG. 11 is completed, the process proceeds to step d1, and the wiring path creating means 107 performs the operation of creating a divided region. In step d1, when the arrangement area 24 is divided by a boundary line extending in the column direction Y, each divided area formed by dividing the arrangement area 24 can arrange one or more strings without excess or deficiency. The divided area is searched. Further, the divided region is set so that the total value of the output voltages of one or more strings is equal to the total value of the output voltages of the solar cell modules that can be arranged in the divided region.

  Specifically, the boundary line is sequentially shifted in the row direction X so that the total value of the output voltages of the solar cell modules that can be arranged in each divided region matches the output voltage of one or more strings. If both match, the two sides of the boundary line are set as divided regions.

  In one embodiment of the present invention, the shape of a string is limited by dividing an area vertically and horizontally, and finally a string having a shape divided by vertical and horizontal boundaries is created. An ideal string shape is realized when only one string is assigned to all the divided areas of the arrangement area.

  When it is impossible to realize an ideal string shape, two or more strings are arranged in one divided region. In this case, modules are assigned to strings according to a flowchart shown in FIG. Even if a wiring path having a non-ideal string shape is created, a sub-optimal assignment can be obtained by evaluating the wiring performance according to a flowchart shown in FIG.

  FIG. 15 shows a state where the arrangement area is divided into two divided areas 301 and 302 by a boundary line 300 passing in the column direction Y. As shown in FIG. 15, by dividing the arrangement region, the total output voltage of the solar cell modules belonging to the first string and the third string, and the output voltage of the solar cell module that can be arranged in one division region 301 The total value is equal. Therefore, the first string and the third string can be allocated to one divided region 301 without excess or deficiency.

  Further, the total value of the output voltages of the solar cell modules belonging to the second string and the fourth string is equal to the total value of the output voltages of the solar cell modules that can be arranged in the other divided region 302. Therefore, the second string and the fourth string can be allocated to the other divided area 302 without excess or deficiency.

  When there is one division area for dividing the arrangement area in this way, the arrangement area is divided by the division area, and the process proceeds to step d2. If the arrangement area cannot be divided by the boundary line extending in the column direction Y, the process advances to step d2 without dividing the arrangement area.

  Next, in step d2, when the arrangement area is further divided by the boundary line 303 extending in the row direction X from the state of step d1, one division area is formed by dividing the arrangement area. A divided area where the above strings can be arranged without excess or deficiency is searched. The specific method for setting the divided areas is the same as step d1 except that the direction of the boundary line is different.

  FIG. 16 shows a state in which one divided region 301 shown in FIG. 15 is further divided by a boundary line 303 passing through the arrangement region in the row direction X and newly divided into two divided regions 304 and 305. Yes.

  As shown in FIG. 16, by further dividing the arrangement area, the total value of the output voltages of the solar cell modules belonging to the third string and the total value of the output voltages of the solar cell modules that can be arranged in the first division area 304 Are equal. Therefore, the third string can be allocated to the first divided region 304 without excess or deficiency.

  In addition, the total value of the output voltages of the solar cell modules belonging to the first string is equal to the total value of the output voltages of the solar cell modules that can be arranged in the second divided region. Accordingly, the first string can be allocated to the second divided area 305 without excess or deficiency.

  When there is one division area for dividing the arrangement area in this way, the arrangement area is divided by the division area, and the process proceeds to step d3. If the arrangement area cannot be divided by the boundary line extending in the column direction X, the process advances to step d3 without dividing the arrangement area.

  In step d3, the wiring path creation means divides when the total value of the output voltages of the solar cell modules arranged in the divided region cannot be equal to the output voltage of the solar cell modules belonging to one or more strings. It judges that it is impossible, and progresses to step d4. If it is determined that the area can be divided, the process returns to step d1, and the arrangement area is repeatedly divided in at least one of the row direction X and the column direction Y.

  FIG. 17 shows a state in which the other divided region 302 shown in FIG. 16 is further divided into two divided regions 306 and 307 by a boundary line 308 passing through the arrangement region in the row direction X. Yes. The same is true for the third divided region 306, which is one of the divided divided regions 302, and the fourth divided region 307, which is the other divided portion of the other divided region 302. Divided by boundaries that can be allocated without a shortage.

  Accordingly, the fourth strings in Table 3 can be allocated to the third divided area 306 without excess or deficiency, and the second strings in Table 3 can be allocated to the fourth divided area 307 without excess or deficiency. In this way, steps d1 to d3 are repeated to form each divided region and assign each first to fourth string arranged in the divided region.

  When divided as shown in FIG. 17, the third string shown in Table 3 is assigned to the first divided area 304, the first string shown in Table 3 is assigned to the second divided area 305, and the third divided area 306 is assigned. Is assigned the fourth string shown in Table 3, and the fourth divided area 307 is assigned the second string shown in Table 3.

  In step d4, a combination of divided areas for dividing the arrangement area is created, and if it is determined that there is a combination of other divided areas in addition to the previously created divided area combination, the process returns to step d1 and created previously. A combination of divided areas different from the combination of the divided areas is created.

  FIG. 18 shows a state where the arrangement area is divided by a combination of divided areas different from that in FIG. In the combination of the divided regions shown in FIG. 18, first, the arrangement region is divided in the row direction, 30 first solar cell modules 21a, 3 second solar cell modules 21b, and third solar cell modules 21c. Divided into a lower divided region 310 consisting of three, an upper divided region 311 consisting of ten first solar cell modules 21a, two second solar cell modules 21b and two third solar cell modules 21c. To do.

  Next, the first to third strings shown in Table 5 are assigned to one divided area 310, the fourth string shown in Table 5 is assigned to the other divided area, and then the lower divided area 310 is divided in the row direction. The left divided region 312 including nine first solar cell modules 21a and three third solar cell modules 21c, 21 first solar cell modules 21a, and three second solar cell modules 21b. The second string shown in Table 5 is assigned to the left divided area 312, and the first and third strings shown in Table 5 are assigned to the central right divided area 313.

  Further, the central right divided region 313 is divided in the row direction, and the central divided region 314 including 12 first solar cell modules 21a, 9 first solar cell modules 21a, and 3 second solar cell modules 21b. The right divided area 315 is divided, the first string shown in Table 5 is assigned to the central divided area 314, and the third string is assigned to the right divided area 315.

  As a result, the fourth string is assigned to the upper divided area 311, the second string is assigned to the left divided area 312, the first string is assigned to the central divided area 314, and the second string is assigned to the right divided area 315.

  As described above, in step d4, one or more division patterns are obtained, and when there is no new division pattern for dividing the arrangement area, the process proceeds to step d5, and the operation for creating the division area is terminated.

  FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing more specifically the procedure in step c3. When the divided region creating operation is completed in step e0, the process proceeds to step e1 and step e2, and the wiring path creating means 107 selects a solar cell module belonging to the string for each combination of divided regions to which the string is assigned in step c2. The operation for determining the wiring path to be connected in series is started.

  In step e1, priorities in the wiring direction of the modules are set in advance. There are two types of priority in the wiring direction of the module: vertical priority and horizontal priority. In the case of vertical priority, the priority is set in the order of column direction Y, diagonal direction, and row direction X. In the case of priority in the horizontal direction, the priority order is set in the order of row direction X, diagonal direction, and column direction Y.

  In step e2, the first module belonging to the target string is assigned in accordance with a first condition set in advance. For example, according to the first condition, the first module having the smallest number of other modules adjacent in the eight directions of up, down, left, and right is selected as the top module. When there are a plurality of modules that meet the first condition, wiring is determined when all of them are set as the leading modules, and the best one is left among them. When the priority in the wiring direction and the top module are thus determined, the process proceeds to step e3.

  In step e3, the top module determined in step e2 is assigned to the target string, the top module is set as the target module, and the process proceeds to step e4. In step e4, it is determined whether or not all the modules belonging to the string are allocated. If all the modules are allocated, the process proceeds to step e5 and the operation is terminated. Otherwise, go to step e6.

  In step e6, it is determined whether there is a module to be connected with the highest priority in accordance with a predetermined second condition among modules adjacent to the target module. For example, the second condition is that the module is not assigned, can be a module belonging to the target string, is adjacent to the target module, and has only one module that is not assigned. Satisfy the conditions.

  If there is a module satisfying the second condition, the process proceeds to step e7, where the module is newly assigned as a target module, and the process returns to step e4. If there is no highest priority module, the process proceeds to step e8.

  In step e8, it is determined whether there is a connectable module in accordance with a predetermined third condition among modules adjacent to the target module. For example, the third condition satisfies the following three conditions: not assigned, can be a module belonging to the target string, and is a module adjacent to the target module.

  If there is a module satisfying the third condition, the process proceeds to step e9, a connectable module is newly assigned as a target module, and the process returns to step e4. When there are a plurality of connectable modules, the connectable modules are determined according to the priority in the wiring direction. If there is no connectable module, the process proceeds to step e10.

  In step e10, it is determined whether there is a module that can be the target module in accordance with a predetermined fourth condition in the arrangement area. The fourth condition is a module that has the smallest number of adjacent modules that are not allocated among modules that satisfy the two conditions of not being allocated and being able to be a module belonging to the target string. It must be a condition.

  If there are a plurality of modules satisfying the fourth condition, the process proceeds to step e11, one is selected according to a predetermined rule, the module is assigned to the string, and the process returns to step e4. If there is no module that satisfies the fourth condition in step e10, the process proceeds to step e12. In step e12, error information is notified.

  In this way, each module belonging to the string is assigned, and the wiring path is set in the order assigned from the top module. In this way, a plurality of wiring paths are created, and combinations of all wiring paths are obtained for each divided region to which strings are assigned.

  In addition, modules that are easy to connect, such as modules that are arranged adjacent to the connection source module, are preferentially selected as connection destination modules, and the solar cell modules that are arranged adjacent to each other are connected in series. It is preferable to extend in a single stroke.

  In this manner, one or more wiring paths can be obtained for each combination of divided areas to which strings are assigned. By performing the operation of the flowchart shown in FIG. 19 for all combinations of divided areas, a plurality of wiring paths for each divided area can be obtained.

  FIG. 20 is a plan view of the roof surface showing one wiring route example, and FIG. 21 is a plan view of the roof surface showing another wiring route example different from the wiring route example shown in FIG. In the wiring path 26, it is preferable that adjacent solar cell modules are arranged in series.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing more specifically the procedure in step c5. The wiring route creation means 107 evaluates the wiring route of the solar cell module according to a predetermined condition and selects an optimal wiring route. An example of evaluation is shown below.

  When the assignment of the solar cell modules is completed in step f0, the process proceeds to step f1, and the wiring path creation means 107 performs an operation for evaluating the wiring path of the module.

  In step f1, a wiring path having the smallest number of strings extending over a plurality of arrangement areas is extracted, and the process proceeds to step f2. In step f2, the wiring path having the largest number of strings connecting adjacent modules is extracted from the wiring paths, and the process proceeds to step f3. In step f3, a wiring path having a large number of patterns corresponding to one divided region and one string is extracted, and the process proceeds to step f4.

  In step f4, wiring paths are extracted in ascending order of the total boundary length of each string, and the process proceeds to step f5. In step f4, for example, in the case of the wiring path shown in FIG. 20, the total length of the boundary line is 15 times as long as one side of the solar cell module. In the case of the wiring path shown in FIG. 21, the total length of the boundary line is 17 times the length of one side of the solar cell module. In this case, the wiring path 26 shown in FIG. 20 has a smaller total boundary length than the wiring path 26 shown in FIG. 21, and therefore the wiring path 26 shown in FIG. 20 is selected.

  In step f5, a connection having a large number of connections in the row direction X or the column direction Y, that is, a connection having few wirings extending in an oblique direction intersecting the row direction X and the column direction Y is selected, and the process proceeds to step f6. In step f6, the wiring route that most closely matches the conditions in steps f1 to f5 is determined, and the process proceeds to step f7. In step f7, the wiring route creation operation is terminated. Weighting is performed for particularly important conditions among steps f1 to f5. A wiring route may be determined. Moreover, such evaluation is an example and is not limited to this evaluation.

  When the wiring route creation means determines the wiring route, the result output means outputs the wiring route determined by the wiring route creation means in step s6 shown in FIG.

  FIG. 23 is a block diagram showing a photovoltaic power generation apparatus 410 designed with a wiring route according to the present invention. FIG. 23 differs from the conventional photovoltaic power generation apparatus 10 shown in FIG. Therefore, a description of the corresponding configuration will be omitted, and a reference numeral obtained by adding 400 to the reference numeral of the photovoltaic power generation apparatus shown in FIG.

  The output voltage of each string is set within the specified power range of the power conditioner, and the shape of each string and the boundary line between the strings are made simpler than the conventional photovoltaic power generator 10 of FIG. Mistakes in electrical connection can be reduced.

  As described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the modules are connected to the direct current according to the created wiring path to form each string. Since the total value of the output voltages of the modules belonging to each string falls within the specified voltage range of the power conditioner, each string outputs an output voltage within the specified voltage range of the power conditioner, and the power generation of the photovoltaic power generation apparatus 20 It is possible to prevent the ability from greatly deteriorating.

  In addition, the solar cell modules facing the boundary between at least two strings adjacent in the arrangement area can be arranged in the row direction or the column direction, and the wiring path connecting the modules in series is extended linearly in the vicinity of the boundary. It does not extend zigzag. That is, the shape of the string can be made simple. Thereby, in the construction work of the solar cell module, it is possible to reduce a connection error that connects a module belonging to one of the two strings and a module belonging to the other of the two strings.

  Furthermore, by incorporating a booster circuit in the power conditioner, the specified voltage range of the power conditioner can be expanded and the number of string combinations can be increased. As a result, a plurality of combinations of wiring paths can be obtained, and a wiring path with fewer connection mistakes can be selected from the wiring paths.

  In addition, it is possible to determine a wiring route satisfying conditions such as the lower limit value of the generated power of the photovoltaic power generation device, the upper limit value of the price, and the connection conditions from among the plurality of wiring routes. Therefore, it is possible to determine a balanced wiring path according to the needs of the designer with respect to the power generation capacity.

  Further, by associating the divided areas with the strings, modules belonging to one or more strings can be arranged in the divided areas without excess or deficiency. Thus, each string can be easily assigned to the arrangement area so that modules arranged along the boundary between at least two strings adjacent in the arrangement area are aligned in the row direction or the column direction.

  Further, by sequentially changing the combinations of the divided areas in the arrangement area, it is possible to search many combinations of associations between the divided areas and the one or more strings, and a plurality of assignments in the arrangement area of the strings are obtained. In addition, you can choose a more optimal assignment.

  Further, as shown in steps d1 to d3 of FIG. 14, by repeating the division of the arrangement area and dividing the arrangement area into a plurality of division areas, a location where the wiring path extends linearly in the vicinity of the boundary between the two strings. A wiring path that can be increased as much as possible and can further reduce module connection errors can be created.

  Further, by using different information for each type of module having a different shape and output voltage, a wiring path can be created even when the information regarding the output voltage is different for each type of module. The information regarding the output voltage includes, for example, the size, shape, and output voltage of the module. In the present embodiment, three types of modules having different shapes and output voltages are used. However, a wiring path can be created even using other types of modules. For example, modules having the same shape but different output voltages may be used.

  In addition, by creating a combination of power conditioners for each combination of strings to be created, the string can output output power and output current that fall within the specified power range and specified current range of the power conditioner. This ensures that the string output is given to the inverter. Further, by making the number of input terminals of the power conditioner larger than the number of strings, it is possible to eliminate the occurrence of excessive strings that cannot be connected to the power conditioner.

  In addition, it is possible to configure a photovoltaic power generation system using a combination of power conditioners that is inexpensive, preventing a significant decrease in power conversion efficiency and preventing module connection errors, and further reducing production costs. be able to. Moreover, a solar power generation device with high power conversion efficiency can be configured, and a wiring path with high power conversion efficiency can be obtained after preventing a module connection error.

  Also, by reducing the number of modules along the boundary between two strings, that is, by shortening the length of the boundary line, it belongs to one of the two solar cell strings and belongs to the other of the two strings Connection errors such as connecting modules can be further reduced.

  In addition, by causing the computer to execute the design method of the solar power generation device, the wiring path of the solar power generation device can be created even when there are many combinations. In addition, it is possible to determine a wiring route that is simple and easy in a short time, is inexpensive, has a high power conversion efficiency, and is simple and easy to construct.

  The embodiment of the present invention is merely an example of the invention, and the configuration can be changed within the scope of the invention. For example, although the wiring path | route of the solar power generation device was created using the computer, a designer may create a wiring path | route using a computer about a part of design procedures, or without using a computer.

  Further, the order of the design procedure is not limited to the order of the procedure described above, and some procedures may be omitted when the information for creation is known in advance. Moreover, you may change the order of the procedure mentioned above. Moreover, although the solar cell module was provided on the roof surface of a house for home use, it may be disposed outdoors and may be disposed at a place other than the roof surface of other buildings.

It is a flowchart which shows the design procedure of the solar power generation device 20 which is one Embodiment of this invention. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a solar power generation device 20. FIG. It is a top view which expands and shows one roof surface 22a among several roof surfaces 22a and 22b. It is a block diagram which shows the design assistance apparatus 100 which supports the design of the solar power generation device 20 of this invention. It is a front view which shows the roof surface 22a before arrangement | positioning the solar cell module 21. FIG. It is a graph which shows the power conversion efficiency of a power conditioner. 2 is a block diagram showing a specific configuration for realizing the design support apparatus 100. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a specific operation procedure of a string combination creating unit 104. It is a flowchart which shows the specific operation | movement procedure of the conditioner combination preparation means 105. It is a systematic diagram which shows an example of each combination in a conditioner combination operation | movement. 5 is a flowchart showing an operation procedure of a wiring path creation means 107. It is a systematic diagram which shows an example of each combination in wiring path | route preparation operation | movement. It is a top view which shows the string 700 comprised by connecting the module which mutually separated. It is a flowchart which shows the division | segmentation procedure in step c2 more concretely. It is a top view which shows a roof surface in order to demonstrate a division | segmentation procedure. It is a top view which shows a roof surface in order to demonstrate a division | segmentation procedure. It is a top view which shows a roof surface in order to demonstrate a division | segmentation procedure. 15 shows a state where the arrangement area is divided by a different division pattern from FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure in step c3 more specifically. It is a top view of the roof surface which shows one wiring route example.

FIG. 21 is a plan view of a roof surface showing another wiring route example different from the wiring route example shown in FIG. 20. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure in step c5 more specifically. It is a block diagram which shows the solar power generation device 410 designed by the wiring path | route by this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the solar power generation device 10 of a prior art.

Explanation of symbols

20 Solar power generation device 21a, 21b, 21c Solar cell module 22a, 22b Roof surface 23a, 23b Power conditioner 24 Arrangement area 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d Solar cell string 26 Wiring path 27a, 27b, 27d, 27c Division area 29a , 29b, 29c Individual area 100 Design support device 101 Arrangement information acquisition means 102 Conditioner information acquisition means 103 Module information acquisition means 104 String combination creation means 105 Conditioner combination creation means 106 String combination prioritization means 107 Wiring path creation means 108 Result output means 300, 303, 308 Dividing line X Row direction Y Column direction

Claims (9)

DC power output by a plurality of solar cell modules arranged in a predetermined arrangement region in a predetermined row direction and a column direction intersecting on one plane and a plurality of solar cell modules connected in series with each other A design support device for supporting the design of a photovoltaic power generation device comprising power conversion means for converting the power into AC power,
The output voltage information on the output voltage of each solar cell module, an acquisition unit and the specified voltage range of the power conversion unit, the solar cell modules of the arrangement area acquires the position information of the individual areas each of which is arranged separately ,
Based on the output voltage information of the solar cell module, each solar cell module that can be arranged in the arrangement region is grouped into a plurality of solar cell strings, and the total value of the output voltages of the solar cell modules belonging to each solar cell string is String combination creating means for creating a combination of solar cell strings that fall within a specified voltage range;
Based on the position information of each individual region, the arrangement region is divided into a plurality of divided regions by dividing lines extending in the row direction or the column direction, and belongs to one or more solar cell strings based on the combination of the solar cell strings Each solar cell string is assigned to each divided region so that the total value of the output voltage of the solar cell module is equal to the total value of the output voltage of the solar cell modules that can be arranged in the divided region. Wiring path creation means for creating a wiring path for connecting the solar cell modules to which the module belongs in series ;
A design support apparatus for a photovoltaic power generation apparatus, comprising: a result output means for outputting a wiring path created by the wiring path creation means . The wiring path creation means includes one solar cell string assigned to each divided region or a total value of output voltages of solar cell modules arranged in each divided region belongs to one or more solar cell strings. The design of a solar power generation device according to claim 1 , wherein division of the arrangement region into a plurality of divided regions is repeated until it cannot be assigned to be equal to the total value of the output voltages of the solar cell modules. Support device . The output voltage information, the design support apparatus of the photovoltaic device according to claim 1 or 2 wherein different for each type of at least one different solar cell module configuration and the output voltage. Further comprising a conditioner combination creating means for creating a combination of power conversion means,
The acquisition means acquires the output current of each solar cell module, acquires the number of input terminals, the specified power range and the specified current range for each type of power conversion means,
The conditioner combination creating means is configured such that, for each combination of solar cell strings that fall within the specified voltage range, the number of solar cell strings is equal to or less than the number of input terminals, and solar cell modules belonging to each solar cell string are connected in series. The combination of power conversion means for each combination of solar cell strings is created so that the output power value and the output current value in the case fall within the specified power range and the specified current range, respectively . The design support apparatus of the solar power generation device in any one. The acquisition unit acquires cost information regarding costs for each type of power conversion unit,
The conditioner combination preparation means on the basis of the cost information, claim 4, characterized in that the cost of the power conversion means such that less expensive, creating a combination of the power conversion means for each combination of each solar cell string The design support apparatus of the described solar power generation device . The acquisition means acquires the power conversion efficiency of the power conversion means indicating the efficiency of the output power with respect to the input power,
The conditioner combination creating means obtains an output power value that is output when solar cell modules belonging to each solar cell string are connected in series for each combination of solar cell strings, and determines the power conversion efficiency of the power conversion unit. 6. The design support apparatus for a photovoltaic power generator according to claim 4 , wherein a combination of power conversion means for each combination of solar cell strings is created based on the combination . The wiring path creation means selects a wiring path that shortens the total value of the total lengths of the boundary lines between the solar cell strings arranged adjacent to the arrangement area among the created wiring paths. A design support device for a solar power generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 6. The program for functioning a computer as a design support apparatus of the solar power generation device in any one of Claims 1-7. A computer-readable storage medium on which the program according to claim 8 is recorded.