Patent- und Markenrecht

Aktenzeichen  6 Ni 47/18 (EP)

Tenor

In der Patentnichtigkeitssache
betreffend das europäische Patent 2 135 348
(DE 60 2007 043 816)
hat der 6. Senat (Nichtigkeitssenat) des Bundespatentgerichts auf Grund der mündlichen Verhandlung vom 27. November 2020 durch die Vorsitzende Richterin Friehe, die Richterin Werner und die Richter Dipl.-Ing. Müller, Dipl.-Ing. Matter sowie Dipl.-Phys. Univ. Dr. Haupt
für Recht erkannt:
I. Das Europäische Patent 2 135 348 wird mit Wirkung für das Hoheitsgebiet der Bundesrepublik Deutschland für nichtig erklärt.
II. Die Kosten des Rechtstreits einschließlich der außergerichtlichen Kosten der Streithelferin hat die Beklagte zu tragen.
III. Das Urteil ist gegen Sicherheitsleistung in Höhe von 110 % des zu vollstreckenden Betrages vorläufig vollstreckbar.

Tatbestand

1
Die Beklagte ist Inhaberin des mit Wirkung für das Hoheitsgebiet der Bundesrepublik Deutschland erteilten europäischen Patents 2 135 348 (Streitpatent). Das Streitpatent ist in englischer Sprache erteilt und in Kraft.
2
Das beim Deutschen Patent- und Markenamt unter dem Aktenzeichen 60 2007 043 816 geführte Streitpatent trägt die Bezeichnung
3
“Distributed Power Harvesting Systems Using DC Power Sources”
4
(auf Deutsch laut Streitpatentschrift:
5
“Verteilte Leistungswandler-Systeme mit Gleichstrom-Leistungsquellen”)
6
und umfasst in der erteilten Fassung neun Patentansprüche, die die Klägerin mit der am 15. November 2018 eingereichten Nichtigkeitsklage insgesamt angreift.
7
Die angegriffenen unabhängigen Patentansprüche 1 und 8 lauten in der Verfahrenssprache wie folgt:
8
1. A distributed power harvesting system comprising:
9
a plurality of DC power sources (301,401,301,601,701);
10
a plurality of converters (305,405,505,605,705), and
11
wherein each of the converters (305,405,505,605,705) comprises:
12
i input terminals (614,616,716) coupled to a respective DC power source (301,401,301,601,701);
13
ii output terminals (610,612,712) coupled in series to the other converters (305,405,505,605,705), thereby forming a serial string; and
14
iii a power conversion portion (604) for converting the power received at the input terminals (614,616) to an output power at the output terminals (610,612,712); and
15
a power delivery device (304,404,504) coupled to the serial string,
16
characterized in that
17
the converters (305,405,505,605,705) are buck plus boost converters each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608,708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614,616,716) of the buck plus boost converters (305,405,505,605,705) according to predetermined criteria;
18
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610,612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together, and that the power delivery device (304,404,504) comprises a control part maintaining the input voltage to the power delivery device (304,404,504) at a predetermined value.
19
8. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301,401,301,601,701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305,405,505,605,705), the method comprising:
20
coupling each of the power sources (301,401,301,601,701) to a respective DC power converter (305,405,505,605,705);
21
coupling the power converters (305,405,505,605,705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
22
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304,404,504);
23
fixing the input voltage to the power delivery device (304,404,504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301,401,301,601,701); and controlling power output from each power source (301,401,301,601,701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305,405,505,605,705) according to a predetermined criteria,
24
wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608,708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614,616,716) of the buck plus boost converters (305,405,505,605,705) according to predetermined criteria,
25
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610,612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together.
26
Auf Deutsch lauten sie laut Streitpatentschrift:
27
1. Verteiltes Leistungswandler-System umfassend:
28
eine Vielzahl von Gleichstrom-Leistungsquellen
29
(301, 401, 501, 601, 701);
30
eine Vielzahl von Wandlern (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), worin
31
jeder der Wandler (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) umfasst:
32
i Eingangsanschlüsse (614, 616, 716), die an eine jeweiligen [sic!] Gleichstrom-Leistungsquelle gekoppelt sind;
33
ii Ausgangsanschlüsse (610, 612, 712), die in Reihe mit den Wandlern ((305, 405, 505, 605,705) gekoppelt sind, und dadurch eine Reiheneinschaltungskette bilden; und
34
iii einen Leistungswandlerabschnitt (604) zum Wandeln der an den Eingangsanschlüssen (614,616) empfangenen Leistung in eine Ausgangsleistung an den Ausgangsanschlüssen (610,612,712) umzusetzen; und
35
eine Leistungsabgabeeinrichtung (304, 404, 504), die mit der Reiheneinschaltungskette gekoppelt ist,
36
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
37
die Wandler (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) Abwärts- plus Aufwärts-Wandler sind, die jeweils einen Abwärtswandler, einen Aufwärts-Wandler, einen Controller (606) und eine Schaltungsschleife (608, 708) umfassen, die die Spannung und den Strom an den Eingangsanschlüssen (614, 616, 716) der Abwärts- plus Aufwärts-Wandler (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) entsprechend vorgegebenen Kriterien einstellen;
38
wobei in Antwort auf den MPPT-Teil und den Strom oder die Spannung an den Ausgangsanschlüssen (610, 612) der Controller (606) entweder den Abwärtswandler oder den Aufwärts-Wandler selektiv aktiviert oder den Abwärtswandler und den Aufwärts-Wandler zusammen aktiviert, und dass die Leistungsabgabeeinrichtung (304, 404, 504) einen Kontrollteil umfasst, der die Eingangsspannung an der Leistungsabgabeeinrichtung (304, 404, 504) auf einem vorgegebenen Wert hält.
39
8. Verfahren zur Leistungsumwandlung bei einem verteilten Leistungswandlersystem mit einer Vielzahl von Gleichstrom-Leistungsquellen (301, 401, 501,601, 701) und einer Vielzahl von Gleichstrom-Leistungswandlern (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), wobei das Verfahren umfasst:
40
Ankoppeln von jeder der Leistungsquellen (301, 401, 501, 601, 701) an einen jeweiligen Gleichstrom-Leistungswandler (305, 405, 505, 605, 705);
41
Koppen [sic!] der Leistungswandler (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) in Reihe, um dadurch wenigstens eine Reihenschaltungskette zu bilden;
42
Koppeln der Reihenschaltungskette mit einer Leistungsabgabe-einrichtung (304, 404, 504);
43
Fixieren der Eingangsspannung an die Leistungsabgabeeinrich-tung (304,404,504) an einem vorgegebenen Wert, um dadurch zu erzwingen, dass der Strom, der durch die Reihenschaltungskette fließt, entsprechend der Leistung, die durch die Leistungsquellen (301, 401, 501, 601, 701) geliefert wird, variiert; und
44
individuelles Steuern des Leistungsausgangs von jeder Leistungsquelle (301, 401, 501, 601, 701) und individuelles Variieren der Eingangsspannung und des Stroms an jedem entsprechenden Wandler (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) entsprechend vorgegebenen Kriterien,
45
worin Abwärts- plus Aufwärts-Wandler verwendet werden, die jeweils einen Abwärtswandler, einen Aufwärts-Wandler, einen Controller (606) und eine Schaltungsschleife (608, 708) aufweisen, die die Spannung und den Strom an den Eingangsanschlüssen (614, 616, 716) der Abwärts- plus Aufwärts-Wandler (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) nach vorgegebenen Kriterien einstellen,
46
worin der Controller (606) in Antwort auf den MPPT-Teil und den Strom oder die Spannung aus den Ausgangsanschlüssen (610, 612) entweder den Abwärtswandler oder den Aufwärts-Wandler selektiv aktiviert oder den Abwärtswandler und den Aufwärts-Wandler zusammen aktiviert.
47
Die ebenfalls angegriffenen Patentansprüche 2 bis 7 sind unmittelbar auf Patentanspruch 1 und Patentanspruch 9 auf den Patentanspruch 8 rückbezogen.
48
Die Klägerin ist der Ansicht, das Patent sei für nichtig zu erklären, da die jeweiligen Gegenstände der erteilten Patentansprüche 1 sowie 8 über den Inhalt der Anmeldung hinausgingen. Außerdem sei ihr Gegenstand mangels Neuheit und mangels erfinderischer Tätigkeit nicht patentfähig.
49
Dies stützt sie unter anderem auf die Druckschriften (Nummerierung und Kurzzeichen nach Klageschriftsatz):
50
N6 Buck-boost converter – Wikipedia; https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buck-boost_converter, heruntergeladen am 09.11.2018, Bearbeitungsstand 31.10.2018
51
NK1 Walker G. R., Sernia P. C.: Cascaded DC-DC Converter Connection of Photovoltaic Modules”. In: IEEE Transactions on Power Electronics, Vol. 19, No. 4, Seiten 1130 – 1139, Juli 2004
52
NK2 US 2006 / 0 132 102 A1
53
NK3 Chakraborty, A. et. al.: Combination of Buck and Boost Modes to Minimize Transients in the Output of a Positive Buck-Boost Converter. Veröffentlichungsvermerk 1-4244-0136-4/06/$20.00 ©2006 IEEE, Seiten 2372-2377
54
NK3a Veröffentlichungsnachweis zur NK3:
55
 https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/4153526; Date of Conference 6.-10. Nov. 2006, Date Added to IEEE Xplore: 16. April 2007
56
NK4 US 6 166 527 A
57
NK5 US 6 984 967 B2
58
NK6 Gaboriault, M.; Notman, A.: A High Efficiency, Non-Inverting, Buck-Boost DC-DC Converter. Veröffentlichungsvermerk: 0-7803-8269-2/04/$17.00 ©2004 IEEE
59
NK7 Chen, J. et. al.: Buck-Boost PWM Converters Having Two Independently Controlled Switches. Veröffentlichungsvermerk: 0-7803-7067-8/01/$10.00 ©2001 IEEE
60
NK8 Erickson, R. W.; Maksimović, D.: Fundamentals of Power Electronics, Second Edition. Copyright 2001, Kluwer Academic Publishers, Sixth Printing 2004.
61
NK9 JP 2000-112545 A
62
NK9a Übersetzung der NK9 in die englische Sprache
63
Mit Schriftsatz vom 21. Dezember 2018 hat sich die Streithelferin auf Seiten der Klägerin dem Rechtsstreit angeschlossen. Die Beklagte hat vor dem Landgericht Ansprüche wegen Patentverletzung gegen sie geltend gemacht. Das rechtliche Interesse an der Nebenintervention ergebe sich aus der gegen sie anhängigen Verletzungsklage.
64
Die Klägerin beantragt,
65
das europäische Patent 2 135 348 mit Wirkung für das Hoheitsgebiet der Bundesrepublik Deutschland in vollem Umfang für nichtig zu erklären.
66
Die Beklagte beantragt,
67
die Klage abzuweisen,
68
hilfsweise die Klage abzuweisen, soweit sie sich auch gegen eine der Fassungen des Streitpatents nach den Hilfsanträgen I bis XXIII nebst Hilfsantrag Ia aus dem Schriftsatz vom 18. Juni 2020 richtet mit folgender Reihenfolge, dass Hilfsantrag IV an die 4. Stelle, Hilfsantrag III an die 5. Stelle, die Hilfsanträge XVII – XXIII an die 11. – 17 Stelle und die Hilfsanträge X – XVI an die 18. – 24. Stelle rücken, in dieser Reihenfolge als geschlossene Anspruchssätze.
69
Die Beklagte tritt der Argumentation der Klägerin entgegen und hält den Gegenstand des Streitpatents in der erteilten Fassung oder wenigstens in einer der verteidigten Fassungen für schutzfähig.
70
Die jeweiligen unabhängigen Patentansprüche nach den Hilfsanträgen, aufgeführt in der beantragten Reihenfolge, haben folgenden Wortlaut, wobei die Änderungen gegenüber der erteilten Fassung durch Unterstreichung hervorgehoben sind:
71
Der Patentanspruch 1 nach Hilfsantrag I ist gegenüber dem Hauptantrag nicht verändert; der Patentanspruch 8 nach Hilfsantrag I lautet:
72
8. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), the method comprising:
73
coupling each of the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) to a respective DC power converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705);
74
coupling the power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
75
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304, 404, 504);
76
fixing, by the power delivery device (304, 404, 504), the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301, 401, 501, 601, 701); and
77
controlling power output from each power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria,
78
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610, 612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together.
79
Der Patentanspruch 1 nach Hilfsantrag Ia ist gegenüber dem Hauptantrag nicht verändert; der Patentanspruch 8 nach Hilfsantrag Ia lautet:
80
8. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), the method comprising:
81
coupling each of the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) to a respective DC power converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705);
82
coupling the power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
83
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304, 404, 504);
84
fixing, by a control part of the power delivery device (304, 404, 504), the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301, 401, 501, 601, 701); and
85
controlling power output from each power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria,
86
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610, 612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together.
87
Die Patentansprüche 1 und 8 nach Hilfsantrag II lauten:
88
1. A distributed power harvesting system comprising:
89
a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
90
a plurality of converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), and
91
wherein each of the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) comprises:
92
i input terminals (614, 616, 716) coupled to a respective DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
93
ii output terminals (610, 612, 712) coupled in series to the other converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), thereby forming a serial string; and
94
iii a power conversion portion (604) for converting the power received at the input terminals (614, 616) to an output power at the output terminals (610, 612, 712); and
95
a power delivery device (304, 404, 504) coupled to the serial string,
96
characterized in that
97
the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are buck plus boost converters each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria;
98
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610, 612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together so that an output current and voltage from the buck plus boost converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are responsive to requirements of the serial string, and that the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) comprises a control part maintaining the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) at a predetermined value.
99
8. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), the method comprising:
100
coupling each of the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) to a respective DC power converter (305,405,505,605,705);
101
coupling the power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
102
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304, 404, 504);
103
fixing the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701); and
104
controlling power output from each power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria,
105
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610, 612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together so that an output current and voltage from the buck plus boost converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are responsive to requirements of the serial string
.
106
Die Patentansprüche 1 und 7 nach Hilfsantrag IV lauten:
107
1. A distributed power harvesting system comprising:
108
a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
109
a plurality of converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), and
110
wherein each of the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) comprises:
111
i input terminals (614, 616, 716) coupled to a respective DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
112
ii output terminals (610, 612, 712) coupled in series to the other converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), thereby forming a serial string; and
113
iii a power conversion portion (604) for converting the power received at the input terminals (614, 616) to an output power at the output terminals (610, 612, 712); and
114
a power delivery device (304, 404, 504) coupled to the serial string,
115
characterized in that
116
the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are buck plus boost converters each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria;
117
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610, 612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together,
118
and
in that the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) comprises a control part maintaining the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) at a predetermined value, and
119
in that each of the plurality of buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a safety module limiting the output to a preset safe value until a predetermined event has occurred.
120
7. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), the method comprising:
121
coupling each of the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) to a respective DC power converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705);
122
coupling the power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
123
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304, 404, 504);
124
fixing the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701); and
125
controlling power output from each power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria,
126
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610, 612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together, and
127
wherein each of the plurality of buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a safety module limiting the output to a preset safe value until a predetermined event has occurred.
128
Die Patentansprüche 1 und 7 nach Hilfsantrag III lauten:
129
1. A distributed power harvesting system comprising:
130
a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
131
a plurality of converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), and
132
wherein each of the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) comprises:
133
i input terminals (614, 616, 716) coupled to a respective DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
134
ii output terminals (610, 612, 712) coupled in series to the other converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), thereby forming a serial string; and
135
iii a power conversion portion (604) for converting the power received at the input terminals (614, 616) to an output power at the output terminals (610, 612, 712); and
136
a power delivery device (304, 404, 504) coupled to the serial string,
137
characterized in that
138
the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are buck plus boost converters each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria;
139
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610, 612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together,
140
and
in that the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) comprises a control part maintaining the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) at a predetermined value,
141
and in that each of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a plurality of switching devices (925, 1025, 1125), each of the switching devices (925, 1025, 1125) forming a current bypass to at least one DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701).
142
7. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), the method comprising:
143
coupling each of the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) to a respective DC power converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705);
144
coupling the power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
145
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304, 404, 504);
146
fixing the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701); and
147
controlling power output from each power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria,
148
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610,612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together, and
149
wherein each of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a plurality of switching devices (925, 1025, 1125), each of the switching devices (925, 1025, 1125) forming a current bypass to at least one DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701).
150
Die Patentansprüche 1 und 8 nach Hilfsantrag V lauten:
151
1. A distributed power harvesting system comprising:
152
a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
153
a plurality of converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), and
154
wherein each of the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) comprises:
155
i input terminals (614, 616, 716) coupled to a respective DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
156
ii output terminals (610, 612, 712) coupled in series to the other converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), thereby forming a serial string; and
157
iii a power conversion portion (604) for converting the power received at the input terminals (614, 616) to an output power at the output terminals (610, 612, 712); and
158
a power delivery device (304, 404, 504) coupled to the serial string,
159
characterized in that
160
the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are buck plus boost converters each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria;
161
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610, 612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or, when a desired voltage at the output terminals (610, 612, 712) is similar to the voltage at the input terminals (614, 616, 716), activates the buck converter and the boost converter together, and that the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) comprises a control part maintaining the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) at a predetermined value.
162
8. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), the method comprising:
163
coupling each of the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) to a respective DC power converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705);
164
coupling the power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
165
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304, 404, 504);
166
fixing the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701); and
167
controlling power output from each power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria,
168
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610,612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or, when a desired voltage at the output terminals (610, 612, 712) is similar to the voltage at the input terminals (614, 616, 716), activates the buck converter and the boost converter together.
169
Die Patentansprüche 1 und 8 nach Hilfsantrag VI lauten:
170
1. A distributed power harvesting system comprising:
171
a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
172
a plurality of converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), and
173
wherein each of the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) comprises:
174
i input terminals (614, 616, 716) coupled to a respective DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
175
ii output terminals (610, 612, 712) coupled in series to the other converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), thereby forming a serial string; and
176
iii a power conversion portion (604) for converting the power received at the input terminals (614, 616) to an output power at the output terminals (610, 612, 712); and
177
a power delivery device (304, 404, 504) coupled to the serial string,
178
characterized in that
179
the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are buck plus boost converters each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria;
180
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610, 612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together so that an output current and voltage from the buck plus boost converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are responsive to requirements of the serial string and that the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) comprises a control part maintaining the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) at a predetermined value.
181
8. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), the method comprising:
182
coupling each of the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) to a respective DC power converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705);
183
coupling the power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
184
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304, 404, 504);
185
fixing by a control part of the power delivery device (304, 404, 504), the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701); and
186
controlling power output from each power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria,
187
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610,612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together so that an output current and voltage from the buck plus boost converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are responsive to requirements of the serial string.
188
Die Patentansprüche 1 und 8 nach Hilfsantrag VII lauten:
189
1. A distributed power harvesting system comprising:
190
a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
191
a plurality of converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), and
192
wherein each of the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) comprises:
193
i input terminals (614, 616, 716) coupled to a respective DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
194
ii output terminals (610, 612, 712) coupled in series to the other converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), thereby forming a serial string; and
195
iii a power conversion portion (604) for converting the power received at the input terminals (614, 616) to an output power at the output terminals (610, 612, 712); and
196
a power delivery device (304, 404, 504) coupled to the serial string,
197
characterized in that
198
the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are buck plus boost converters each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria;
199
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610, 612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or, when a desired voltage at the output terminals (610, 612, 712) is similar to the voltage at the input terminals (614, 616, 716), activates the buck converter and the boost converter together, and that the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) comprises a control part maintaining the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) at a predetermined value.
200
8. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), the method comprising:
201
coupling each of the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) to a respective DC power converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705);
202
coupling the power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
203
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304, 404, 504);
204
fixing, by a control part of the power delivery device (304, 404, 504), the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701); and
205
controlling power output from each power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria,
206
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610,612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or, when a desired voltage at the output terminals (610, 612, 712) is similar to the voltage at the input terminals (614, 616, 716), activates the buck converter and the boost converter together.
207
Die Patentansprüche 1 und 8 nach Hilfsantrag VIII lauten:
208
1. A distributed power harvesting system comprising:
209
a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
210
a plurality of converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705),
211
and
212
wherein each of the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) comprises:
213
i input terminals (614, 616, 716) coupled to a respective DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
214
ii output terminals (610, 612, 712) coupled in series to the other converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), thereby forming a serial string; and
215
iii a power conversion portion (604) for converting the power received at the input terminals (614, 616) to an output power at the output terminals (610, 612, 712); and
216
a power delivery device (304, 404, 504) coupled to the serial string,
217
characterized in that
218
the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are buck plus boost converters each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria;
219
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610, 612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or, when a desired voltage at the output terminals (610, 612, 712) is similar to the voltage at the input terminals (614, 616, 716), activates the buck converter and the boost converter together so that an output current and voltage from the buck plus boost converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are responsive to requirements of the serial string, and that the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) comprises a control part maintaining the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) at a predetermined value.
220
8. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), the method comprising:
221
coupling each of the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) to a respective DC power converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705);
222
coupling the power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
223
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304, 404, 504);
224
fixing the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701); and
225
controlling power output from each power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria,
226
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610,612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or, when a desired voltage at the output terminals (610, 612, 712) is similar to the voltage at the input terminals (614, 616, 716), activates the buck converter and the boost converter together so that an output current and voltage from the buck plus boost converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are responsive to requirements of the serial string.
227
Die Patentansprüche 1 und 8 nach Hilfsantrag IX lauten:
228
1. A distributed power harvesting system comprising:
229
a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
230
a plurality of converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705),
231
and
232
wherein each of the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) comprises:
233
i input terminals (614, 616, 716) coupled to a respective DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
234
ii output terminals (610, 612, 712) coupled in series to the other converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), thereby forming a serial string; and
235
iii a power conversion portion (604) for converting the power received at the input terminals (614, 616) to an output power at the output terminals (610, 612, 712); and
236
a power delivery device (304, 404, 504) coupled to the serial string,
237
characterized in that
238
the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are buck plus boost converters each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria;
239
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610, 612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or, when a desired voltage at the output terminals (610, 612, 712) is similar to the voltage at the input terminals (614, 616, 716), activates the buck converter and the boost converter together so that an output current and voltage from the buck plus boost converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are responsive to requirements of the serial string, and that the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) comprises a control part maintaining the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) at a predetermined value.
240
8. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), the method comprising:
241
coupling each of the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) to a respective DC power converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705);
242
coupling the power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
243
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304, 404, 504);
244
fixing, by a control part of the power delivery device (304, 404, 504), the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701); and
245
controlling power output from each power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria,
246
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610,612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or, when a desired voltage at the output terminals (610, 612, 712) is similar to the voltage at the input terminals (614, 616, 716), activates the buck converter and the boost converter together so that an output current and voltage from the buck plus boost converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are responsive to requirements of the serial string.
247
Die Patentansprüche 1 und 7 nach Hilfsantrag XVII lauten:
248
1. A distributed power harvesting system comprising:
249
a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
250
a plurality of converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), and
251
wherein each of the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) comprises:
252
i input terminals (614, 616, 716) coupled to a respective DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
253
ii output terminals (610, 612, 712) coupled in series to the other converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), thereby forming a serial string; and
254
iii a power conversion portion (604) for converting the power received at the input terminals (614, 616) to an output power at the output terminals (610, 612, 712); and
255
a power delivery device (304, 404, 504) coupled to the serial string,
256
characterized in that
257
the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are buck plus boost converters each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria;
258
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610,612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together,
259
and
in that the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) comprises a control part maintaining the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) at a predetermined value, and
260
in that each of the plurality of buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a safety module limiting the output to a preset safe value until a predetermined event has occurred.
261
7. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), the method comprising:
262
coupling each of the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) to a respective DC power converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705);
263
coupling the power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
264
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304, 404, 504);
265
fixing, by a control part of the power delivery device (304, 404, 504), the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701); and
266
controlling power output from each power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria,
267
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610, 612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together, and
268
wherein each of the plurality of buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a safety module limiting the output to a preset safe value until a predetermined event has occurred.
269
Die Patentansprüche 1 und 7 nach Hilfsantrag XVIII lauten:
270
1. A distributed power harvesting system comprising:
271
a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
272
a plurality of converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), and
273
wherein each of the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) comprises:
274
i input terminals (614, 616, 716) coupled to a respective DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
275
ii output terminals (610, 612, 712) coupled in series to the other converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), thereby forming a serial string; and
276
iii a power conversion portion (604) for converting the power received at the input terminals (614, 616) to an output power at the output terminals (610, 612, 712); and
277
a power delivery device (304, 404, 504) coupled to the serial string,
278
characterized in that
279
the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are buck plus boost converters each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria;
280
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610,612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together so that an output current and voltage from the buck plus boost converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are responsive to requirements of the serial string,
281
and
in that the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) comprises a control part maintaining the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) at a predetermined value, and
282
in that each of the plurality of buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a safety module limiting the output to a preset safe value until a predetermined event has occurred.
283
7. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), the method comprising:
284
coupling each of the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) to a respective DC power converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705);
285
coupling the power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
286
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304, 404, 504);
287
fixing the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701); and
288
controlling power output from each power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria,
289
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610, 612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together so that an output current and voltage from the buck plus boost converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are responsive to requirements of the serial string, and
290
wherein each of the plurality of buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a safety module limiting the output to a preset safe value until a predetermined event has occurred.
291
Der Patentanspruch 1 nach Hilfsantrag XIX ist gegenüber dem Hilfsantrag XVIII nicht verändert; der Patentanspruch 7 nach Hilfsantrag XIX lautet:
292
7. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), the method comprising:
293
coupling each of the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) to a respective DC power converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705);
294
coupling the power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
295
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304, 404, 504);
296
fixing, by a control part of the power delivery device (304, 404, 504), the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701); and
297
controlling power output from each power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria,
298
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610, 612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together so that an output current and voltage from the buck plus boost converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are responsive to requirements of the serial string, and
299
wherein each of the plurality of buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a safety module limiting the output to a preset safe value until a predetermined event has occurred.
300
Die Patentansprüche 1 und 7 nach Hilfsantrag XX lauten:
301
1. A distributed power harvesting system comprising:
302
a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
303
a plurality of converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), and
304
wherein each of the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) comprises:
305
i input terminals (614, 616, 716) coupled to a respective DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
306
ii output terminals (610, 612, 712) coupled in series to the other converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), thereby forming a serial string; and
307
iii a power conversion portion (604) for converting the power received at the input terminals (614, 616) to an output power at the output terminals (610, 612, 712); and
308
a power delivery device (304, 404, 504) coupled to the serial string,
309
characterized in that
310
the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are buck plus boost converters each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria;
311
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610, 612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or, when a desired voltage at the output terminals (610, 612, 712) is similar to the voltage at the input terminals (614, 616, 716), activates the buck converter and the boost converter together,
312
and
in that the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) comprises a control part maintaining the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) at a predetermined value, and
313
in that each of the plurality of buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a safety module limiting the output to a preset safe value until a predetermined event has occurred.
314
7. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), the method comprising:
315
coupling each of the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) to a respective DC power converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705);
316
coupling the power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
317
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304, 404, 504);
318
fixing the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701); and
319
controlling power output from each power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria,
320
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610,612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or, when a desired voltage at the output terminals (610, 612, 712) is similar to the voltage at the input terminals (614, 616, 716), activates the buck converter and the boost converter together, and
321
wherein each of the plurality of buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a safety module limiting the output to a preset safe value until a predetermined event has occurred.
322
Der Patentanspruch 1 nach Hilfsantrag XXI ist gegenüber dem Hilfsantrag XX nicht verändert; der Patentanspruch 7 nach Hilfsantrag XXI lautet:
323
7. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), the method comprising:
324
coupling each of the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) to a respective DC power converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705);
325
coupling the power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
326
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304, 404, 504);
327
fixing, by a control part of the power delivery device (304, 404, 504), the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701); and
328
controlling power output from each power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria,
329
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610,612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or, when a desired voltage at the output terminals (610, 612, 712) is similar to the voltage at the input terminals (614, 616, 716), activates the buck converter and the boost converter together, and
330
wherein each of the plurality of buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a safety module limiting the output to a preset safe value until a predetermined event has occurred.
331
Die Patentansprüche 1 und 8 nach Hilfsantrag XXII lauten:
332
1. A distributed power harvesting system comprising:
333
a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301,601, 701);
334
a plurality of converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), and
335
wherein each of the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) comprises:
336
i input terminals (614,616, 716) coupled to a respective DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
337
ii output terminals (610, 612, 712) coupled in series to the other converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), thereby forming a serial string; and
338
iii a power conversion portion (604) for converting the power received at the input terminals (614, 616) to an output power at the output terminals (610, 612, 712); and
339
a power delivery device (304, 404, 504) coupled to the serial string,
340
characterized in that
341
the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are buck plus boost converters each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria;
342
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610, 612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or, when a desired voltage at the output terminals (610, 612, 712) is similar to the voltage at the input terminals (614, 616, 716), activates the buck converter and the boost converter together so that an output current and voltage from the buck plus boost converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are responsive to requirements of the serial string,
343
and
in that the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) comprises a control part maintaining the input voltage to the power delivery device (304,404, 504) at a predetermined value, and
344
in that each of the plurality of buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a safety module limiting the output to a preset safe value until a predetermined event has occurred.
345
7. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), the method comprising:
346
coupling each of the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) to a respective DC power converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705);
347
coupling the power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
348
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304, 404, 504);
349
fixing the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701); and
350
controlling power output from each power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305, 405, 505, 605,705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608,708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria,
351
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610,612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or, when a desired voltage at the output terminals (610, 612, 712) is similar to the voltage at the input terminals (614, 616, 716), activates the buck converter and the boost converter together so that an output current and voltage from the buck plus boost converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are responsive to requirements of the serial string, and
352
wherein each of the plurality of buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a safety module limiting the output to a preset safe value until a predetermined event has occurred.
353
Der Patentanspruch 1 nach Hilfsantrag XXIII ist gegenüber dem Hilfsantrag XXII nicht verändert; der Patentanspruch 7 nach Hilfsantrag XXIII lautet:
354
7. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), the method comprising:
355
coupling each of the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) to a respective DC power converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705);
356
coupling the power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
357
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304, 404, 504);
358
fixing, by a control part of the power delivery device (304, 404, 504), the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701); and
359
controlling power output from each power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria,
360
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610, 612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or, when a desired voltage at the output terminals (610, 612, 712) is similar to the voltage at the input terminals (614, 616, 716), activates the buck converter and the boost converter together so that an output current and voltage from the buck plus boost converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are responsive to requirements of the serial string, and
361
wherein each of the plurality of buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a safety module limiting the output to a preset safe value until a predetermined event has occurred.
362
Die Patentansprüche 1 und 7 nach Hilfsantrag X lauten:
363
1. A distributed power harvesting system comprising:
364
a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
365
a plurality of converters (305, 405, 505, 605,705), and
366
wherein each of the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) comprises:
367
i input terminals (614, 616, 716) coupled to a respective DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
368
ii output terminals (610, 612, 712) coupled in series to the other converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), thereby forming a serial string; and
369
iii a power conversion portion (604) for converting the power received at the input terminals (614, 616) to an output power at the output terminals (610, 612, 712); and
370
a power delivery device (304, 404, 504) coupled to the serial string,
371
characterized in that
372
the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are buck plus boost converters each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria;
373
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610,612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together,
374
and
in that the power delivery device (304,404,504) comprises a control part maintaining the input voltage to the power delivery device (304,404,504) at a predetermined value, and
375
in that each of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a plurality of switching devices (925, 1025, 1125), each of the switching devices (925, 1025, 1125) forming a current bypass to at least one DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701).
376
7. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), the method comprising:
377
coupling each of the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) to a respective DC power converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705);
378
coupling the power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
379
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304, 404, 504);
380
fixing, by a control part of the power delivery device (304, 404, 504), the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701); and
381
controlling power output from each power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608,708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria,
382
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610,612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together, and
383
wherein each of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a plurality of switching devices (925, 1025, 1125), each of the switching devices (925, 1025, 1125) forming a current bypass to at least one DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701).
384
Die Patentansprüche 1 und 7 nach Hilfsantrag XI lauten:
385
1. A distributed power harvesting system comprising:
386
a plurality of DC power sources (301,401,301,601,701);
387
a plurality of converters (305,405,505,605,705), and
388
wherein each of the converters (305,405,505,605,705) comprises:
389
i input terminals (614,616,716) coupled to a respective DC power source (301,401,301,601,701);
390
ii output terminals (610,612,712) coupled in series to the other converters (305,405,505,605,705), thereby forming a serial string; and
391
iii a power conversion portion (604) for converting the power received at the input terminals (614,616) to an output power at the output terminals (610,612,712); and
392
a power delivery device (304,404,504) coupled to the serial string,
393
characterized in that
394
the converters (305,405,505,605,705) are buck plus boost converters each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608,708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614,616,716) of the buck plus boost converters (305,405,505,605,705) according to predetermined criteria;
395
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610,612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together so that an output current and voltage from the buck plus boost converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are responsive to requirements of the serial string,
396
and
in that the power delivery device (304,404,504) comprises a control part maintaining the input voltage to the power delivery device (304,404,504) at a predetermined value, and
397
in that each of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a plurality of switching devices (925, 1025, 1125), each of the switching devices (925, 1025, 1125) forming a current bypass to at least one DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701).
398
7. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301,401,301,601,701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305,405,505,605,705), the method comprising:
399
coupling each of the power sources (301,401,301,601,701) to a respective DC power converter (305,405,505,605,705);
400
coupling the power converters (305,405,505,605,705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
401
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304,404,504);
402
fixing the input voltage to the power delivery device (304,404,504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301,401,301,601,701); and
403
controlling power output from each power source (301,401,301,601,701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305,405,505,605,705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608,708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614,616,716) of the buck plus boost converters (305,405,505,605,705) according to predetermined criteria,
404
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610,612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together so that an output current and voltage from the buck plus boost converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are responsive to requirements of the serial string, and
405
wherein each of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a plurality of switching devices (925, 1025, 1125), each of the switching devices (925, 1025, 1125) forming a current bypass to at least one DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701).
406
Der Patentanspruch 1 nach Hilfsantrag XII ist gegenüber dem Hilfsantrag XI nicht verändert; der Patentanspruch 7 nach Hilfsantrag XII lautet:
407
7. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301,401,301,601,701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305,405,505,605,705), the method comprising:
408
coupling each of the power sources (301,401,301,601,701) to a respective DC power converter (305,405,505,605,705);
409
coupling the power converters (305,405,505,605,705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
410
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304,404,504);
411
fixing, by a control part of the power delivery device (304,404,504), the input voltage to the power delivery device (304,404,504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301,401,301,601,701); and
412
controlling power output from each power source (301,401,301,601,701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305,405,505,605,705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608,708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614,616,716) of the buck plus boost converters (305,405,505,605,705) according to predetermined criteria,
413
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610,612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or activates the buck converter and the boost converter together so that an output current and voltage from the buck plus boost converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are responsive to requirements of the serial string, and
414
wherein each of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a plurality of switching devices (925, 1025, 1125), each of the switching devices (925, 1025, 1125) forming a current bypass to at least one DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701).
415
Die Patentansprüche 1 und 7 nach Hilfsantrag XIII lauten:
416
1. A distributed power harvesting system comprising:
417
a plurality of DC power sources (301,401,301,601,701);
418
a plurality of converters (305,405,505,605,705), and
419
wherein each of the converters (305,405,505,605,705) comprises:
420
i input terminals (614,616,716) coupled to a respective DC power source (301,401,301,601,701);
421
ii output terminals (610,612,712) coupled in series to the other converters (305,405,505,605,705), thereby forming a serial string; and
422
iii a power conversion portion (604) for converting the power received at the input terminals (614,616) to an output power at the output terminals (610,612,712); and
423
a power delivery device (304,404,504) coupled to the serial string,
424
characterized in that
425
the converters (305,405,505,605,705) are buck plus boost converters each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608,708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614,616,716) of the buck plus boost converters (305,405,505,605,705) according to predetermined criteria;
426
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610,612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or, when a desired voltage at the output terminals (610, 612, 712) is similar to the voltage at the input terminals (614, 616, 716), activates the buck converter and the boost converter together,
427
and
in that the power delivery device (304,404,504) comprises a control part maintaining the input voltage to the power delivery device (304,404,504) at a predetermined value, and
428
in that each of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a plurality of switching devices (925, 1025, 1125), each of the switching devices (925, 1025, 1125) forming a current bypass to at least one DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701).
429
7. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301,401,301,601,701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305,405,505,605,705), the method comprising:
430
coupling each of the power sources (301,401,301,601,701) to a respective DC power converter (305,405,505,605,705);
431
coupling the power converters (305,405,505,605,705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
432
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304,404,504);
433
fixing the input voltage to the power delivery device (304,404,504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301,401,301,601,701); and
434
controlling power output from each power source (301,401,301,601,701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305,405,505,605,705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608,708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614,616,716) of the buck plus boost converters (305,405,505,605,705) according to predetermined criteria,
435
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610,612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or, when a desired voltage at the output terminals (610, 612, 712) is similar to the voltage at the input terminals (614, 616, 716), activates the buck converter and the boost converter together, and
436
wherein each of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a plurality of switching devices (925, 1025, 1125), each of the switching devices (925, 1025, 1125) forming a current bypass to at least one DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701).
437
Der Patentanspruch 1 nach Hilfsantrag XIV ist gegenüber dem Hilfsantrag XIII nicht verändert; der Patentanspruch 7 nach Hilfsantrag XIV lautet:
438
7. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301,401,301,601,701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305,405,505,605,705), the method comprising:
439
coupling each of the power sources (301,401,301,601,701) to a respective DC power converter (305,405,505,605,705);
440
coupling the power converters (305,405,505,605,705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
441
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304,404,504);
442
fixing, by a control part of the power delivery device (304,404,504), the input voltage to the power delivery device (304,404,504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301,401,301,601,701); and
443
controlling power output from each power source (301,401,301,601,701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305,405,505,605,705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608,708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614,616,716) of the buck plus boost converters (305,405,505,605,705) according to predetermined criteria,
444
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610,612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or, when a desired voltage at the output terminals (610, 612, 712) is similar to the voltage at the input terminals (614, 616, 716), activates the buck converter and the boost converter together, and
445
wherein each of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a plurality of switching devices (925, 1025, 1125), each of the switching devices (925, 1025, 1125) forming a current bypass to at least one DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701).
446
Die Patentansprüche 1 und 8 nach Hilfsantrag XV lauten:
447
1. A distributed power harvesting system comprising:
448
a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
449
a plurality of converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), and
450
wherein each of the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) comprises:
451
i input terminals (614, 616, 716) coupled to a respective DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701);
452
ii output terminals (610, 612, 712) coupled in series to the other converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), thereby forming a serial string; and
453
iii a power conversion portion (604) for converting the power received at the input terminals (614, 616) to an output power at the output terminals (610, 612, 712); and
454
a power delivery device (304, 404, 504) coupled to the serial string,
455
characterized in that
456
the converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are buck plus boost converters each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria;
457
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610, 612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or, when a desired voltage at the output terminals (610, 612, 712) is similar to the voltage at the input terminals (614, 616, 716), activates the buck converter and the boost converter together so that an output current and voltage from the buck plus boost converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are responsive to requirements of the serial string,
458
and
in that the power delivery device (304,404,504) comprises a control part maintaining the input voltage to the power delivery device (304,404,504) at a predetermined value, and
459
in that each of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a plurality of switching devices (925, 1025, 1125), each of the switching devices (925, 1025, 1125) forming a current bypass to at least one DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701).
460
7. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), the method comprising:
461
coupling each of the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) to a respective DC power converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705);
462
coupling the power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
463
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304, 404, 504);
464
fixing the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701); and
465
controlling power output from each power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria,
466
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610, 612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or, when a desired voltage at the output terminals (610, 612, 712) is similar to the voltage at the input terminals (614, 616, 716), activates the buck converter and the boost converter together so that an output current and voltage from the buck plus boost converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are responsive to requirements of the serial string, and
467
wherein each of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a plurality of switching devices (925, 1025, 1125), each of the switching devices (925, 1025, 1125) forming a current bypass to at least one DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701).
468
Der Patentanspruch 1 nach Hilfsantrag XVI ist gegenüber dem Hilfsantrag XV nicht verändert; der Patentanspruch 7 nach Hilfsantrag XVI lautet:
469
7. A method for harvesting power from a distributed power system having a plurality of DC power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) and a plurality of DC power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705), the method comprising:
470
coupling each of the power sources (301, 401, 301,601, 701) to a respective DC power converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705);
471
coupling the power converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) in series, to thereby form at least one serial string;
472
coupling the serial string to a power delivery device (304, 404, 504);
473
fixing, by a control part of the power delivery device (304, 404, 504), the input voltage to the power delivery device (304, 404, 504) to a predetermined value, thereby forcing current flowing through the serial string to vary according to power provided by the power sources (301, 401, 301, 601, 701); and
474
controlling power output from each power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701) individually and individually varying the input voltage and current to each respective converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to a predetermined criteria, wherein buck plus boost converters are used each comprising a buck converter, a boost converter, a controller (606) and a circuit loop (608, 708) setting the voltage and current at the input terminals (614, 616, 716) of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) according to predetermined criteria,
475
wherein, in response to the MPPT part and current or voltage at the output terminals (610, 612), the controller (606) either selectively activates either the buck converter or the boost converter or, when a desired voltage at the output terminals (610, 612, 712) is similar to the voltage at the input terminals (614, 616, 716), activates the buck converter and the boost converter together so that an output current and voltage from the buck plus boost converter (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) are responsive to requirements of the serial string, and
476
wherein each of the buck plus boost converters (305, 405, 505, 605, 705) further comprises a plurality of switching devices (925, 1025, 1125), each of the switching devices (925, 1025, 1125) forming a current bypass to at least one DC power source (301, 401, 301, 601, 701).
477
Wegen des Wortlauts der abhängigen Patentansprüche nach den Hilfsanträgen wird auf die Akte verwiesen.
478
Die Klägerin hält die Hilfsanträge bereits für unzulässig und im Übrigen jedenfalls für nicht patentfähig.
479
Der Senat hat den Parteien einen Hinweis gemäß § 83 Abs. 1 PatG zugeleitet und hierin Fristen zur Stellungnahme auf den Hinweis und auf etwaiges Vorbringen der jeweiligen Gegenpartei gesetzt.
480
Wegen der weiteren Einzelheiten wird auf den Akteninhalt verwiesen.