US 2026/0096044 A1 · SOLAR POWER PROCESSING MODULES WITH SELF-GUIDING UNIVERSAL CONNECTORS

Abstract

A modular power processing system for renewable energy applications includes rack-supported power processing modules with power conversion circuitry for AC/DC and/or DC/DC conversion. Each module can include top and bottom connectors that self-align and engage to establish electrical communication, with optional locking mechanisms to prevent disconnection. Connector covers can be included to protect exposed connectors. The system can include an endpoint module for external electrical connections and supports both active and passive cooling elements. Electrical communication between modules can transmit power and data. Modules are designed for tool-less addition or removal, enabling rapid installation and expansion. The system can be used for outdoor use and is scalable, whereby multiple power processing system are connected to each other.

Claims20

Dependent claims

A modular power processing system comprising:

a first power processing module configured to be supported by a rack structure, the first power processing module comprising:
first power conversion circuitry configured to convert power between AC/DC power and/or between DC/DC power;
and
a first top connector;
a second power processing module configured to be supported by the rack structure, the second power processing module comprising:
second power conversion circuitry configured to convert power between AC/DC power and/or between DC/DC power;
and
a second bottom connector;
wherein
the first top connector of the first power processing module is configured to self-align and engage with the second bottom connector of the second power processing module, the engagement of the first top connector with the second bottom connector establishing electrical communication between the first power processing module and the second power processing module.

7 more elements

A method of installing modules into a modular power processing rack system, comprising:

installing an endpoint module into a rack structure;
installing a first power processing module into the rack structure by moving the first power processing module horizontally relative to the endpoint module, the relative movement causing the first power processing module to align a first bottom connector with a corresponding top connector of the endpoint module, engagement of the first bottom connector with the corresponding top connector, and establishment of electrical communication between the first power processing module and the endpoint module;
and
installing a second power processing module into the rack structure by moving the second power processing module horizontally relative to the first power processing module, the horizontal movement causing the second power processing module to self-align a second bottom connector with a first top connector of the first power processing module, engagement of the second bottom connector with the first top connector, and establishment of electrical communication between the second power processing module and the first power processing module.

1 more element

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Solar power processing modules with self-guiding universal connectors

Life of this patent

Solar power processing modules with self-guiding universal connectors

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims20