This project is directed at the development of innovative low-cost, high-reliability safety components for use in direct current alternative energy power systems. A hybrid semiconductor (gate avalanch gto, igbt) assisted load break contactor and "fool-proof" detection algorithms will be combined to create two advanced electrical components to mitigate the effects of ground faults and overcurrent conditions in direct current power systems. Such effects in existing photovoltaic (pv) power systems have resulted in dc arc created fires causing significant damage and the potential for serious injury. The components to be developed during the proposed phase i project are: 1) a photovoltaic source circuit ground fault detector/interrupter (gfi), and 2) an adaptive overcurrent circuit breaker/disconnect. Design requirements focus on low cost and high reliability in addition to modularity and a high degree of weatherability. Each component will undergo electrical/mechanical design, breadboard fabrication, performance optimization, and life testing as part of the Phase I effort. Alternative topologies will be investigated for their applicability to photovoltaic power systems ranging in size from 500 watts to multiple-megawatts.
