The Measurement and SPICE Modelling of Schottky Barrier Diodes Appropriate for Use as Bypass Diodes within Photovoltaic Modules

Abstract

The modelling of surges within PV (photovoltaic) installations has been the subject of much research in recent years. However, accurate simulations cannot be performed unless each and every component within a PV installation is modelled in sufficient detail. The bypass diodes within a PV module are frequently omitted from such simulations. When included, they are often represented by oversimplified models. This article addresses this need by presenting SPICE (Simulation Program with Integrated Circuit Emphasis) models for three Schottky diodes, chosen due to their suitability for use as bypass diodes. These models are the combination of DC (direct current) large-signal and AC (alternating current) small-signal sub-models, which are integrated such that the resulting full circuital models allow for accurate simulations involving large-signal transient stimuli. Two types of experimental setups, one incorporating a DC current–voltage curve sweep, and the other involving VNA-based (vector network analyser) AC small-signal impedance measurements, allow for the acquisition of the necessary model parameters at multiple operating points. The AC small-signal measurements cover a wide bandwidth of 100 Hz to 50 MHz. Multiple configurations of the measurement setups are employed in order to achieve the required dynamic range and sensitivity.

Modelling PV Module Lightning-Induced Response: The Oversimplified, the Overestimated, and the Overlooked

“…The first study, [11], proposed a circuit model for the type of Schottky diodes which are often used as bypass diodes within photovoltaic modules. The proposed bypass diode model was shown to work for three common Schottky diodes from different manufacturers, and works for both large and smallsignal scenarios.…”

“…The second study, [12], proposed a circuit model for the cells within a small and a large PV module. The measurement methodology employed in [12] was similar to that from [11], however, the resulting circuit model differed slightly. The proposed PV cell model was shown to work for both large and small-signal scenarios.…”

“…The fifth study, [15], investigated the far-field radiation characteristics of both the small and the large PV module. Measurements of the polar patterns were performed, and postprocessing produced the realized gain results.…”

“…The 2021 version of 3DS CST Studio Suite [18], a CEM simulation package from Dassault Systèmes, was used to perform the simulations documented in this study. This is the same software package that was used in [13]- [15]. Two 3D CEM simulation setups are assessed in this study -one utilises a simple literature-based structure, and the other structure uses a Level 3 structure.…”

Improvement of the SPICE Model of Diode Based on Measurement and Nonlinear Fitting Random Optimization Algorithm

“…Leila et al researched a new simplified model for predicting conducted EMI in DC/DC converters; the high-frequency disturbance estimation is based on the knowledge of circuit parasitic elements and semiconductor device parameters [4]. Kurt et al focused on the modeling of bypass diodes in transient analysis and simulation photovoltaic installations [5].…”