Fast anti-islanding module for grid-tied three-phase inverters
This technology is a protection system for solar inverters and other grid-connected power converters that detects when the converter has become electrically isolated from the utility grid — a dangerous condition called 'islanding.' It works by intentionally introducing a small destabilizing signal into the phase-locked loop that the converter uses to synchronize with the grid. When the grid is present, the system stays stable; when the grid connection is lost, the destabilizing signal causes the synchronization loop to rapidly drift, triggering an automatic shutdown before the isolated system can cause harm to utility workers or equipment. The approach is designed to respond quickly while avoiding false alarms caused by normal grid voltage fluctuations.
What you could build
A firmware or hardware module embedded in solar inverters, UPS systems, or distributed energy resource controllers that provides fast, reliable anti-islanding protection meeting IEEE 1547 or UL 1741 standards; buyers would be inverter OEMs such as SMA, Enphase, or ABB and their grid-tied product lines.
Who in Virginia should care
Virginia-based solar developers, Dominion Energy interconnection compliance teams, and defense microgrid integrators at installations like Quantico or Fort Belvoir would have operational interest in certified anti-islanding solutions.
Readiness: Lab validated
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- Dong Dong, Dushan Boroyevich, Paolo Mattavelli, Bo Wen
- Granted
- February 17, 2015
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 8957666
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.