Time Division Multiplexed Data Analysis Technique using Auto-Morphing Experimental Studies of PV Systems to Minimize Variability

As the price of electricity from photovoltaic (PV) systems approach grid parity, there is an increased interest in experimentation and research in advanced PV systems to further reduce its cost. Limited space in PV experimental facilities, and large number of configurations to be tested have led to small scale experiments. The scaled down testbeds are prone to unwanted fluctuations of different variables which can affect the outcomes of an experiment. We present a technique where a single setup is automatically remorphed into different configurations with recording of data for each configuration in quick sequence. The data of all the configurations are therefore multiplexed in the data stream. By synchronizing the setup re-configuration with data acquisition, we can later de-multiplex the data to their corresponding configurations. This method can minimize variability such as effects of spurious light collection, panel to panel performance inconsistencies, day to day insolation changes, etc. to design more controlled experiments with accurate analysis.