System and method for controlling operation of energy supply

Abstract

Systems, methods, and software products for operating a circuit include obtaining a time series of voltage measurements of an output of the circuit and a time series of current measurements of the output or an input of the circuit; combining the voltage measurements and the current measurements, respectively, to obtain a plurality of power values; calculating an average power over a sliding sampling window using the plurality of power values; and selectively controlling operation of at least one electronic component of the circuit based on a sign and a magnitude of the average power.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to European Patent Application No. 24,166,246.9, filed on 26 March 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Background Technology

[0003] Battery cell packs are commonly used to power electronic devices. Different combinations of battery cell packs are used to provide different output voltages. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure relates to systems and methods for operating circuits. The method includes: obtaining time series of voltage measurements of the circuit's output and time series of current measurements of the circuit's output or input; combining the voltage and current measurements respectively to obtain multiple power values; calculating an average power over a sliding sampling window using the multiple power values; and selectively controlling the operation of at least one electronic component of the circuit based on the sign and value of the average power.

[0005] This disclosure also relates to a power delivery circuit, such as a power source. The power delivery circuit, such as a power source, includes: at least one electronic component configured to selectively switch between an open state and a closed state; and circuitry. The circuitry is configured to perform the following operations: obtain a time series of voltage measurements of the power source's output and a time series of current measurements of the power source's output or input; combine the voltage and current measurements respectively to obtain a plurality of power values; calculate an average power over a sliding sampling window using the plurality of power values; and selectively control the operation of the at least one electronic component based on the sign and value of the average power. The power delivery circuit may be a circuit or module operable to deliver electrical power to an electrical load. The power delivery circuit may or may not include an energy storage device (e.g., an electrochemical cell, a supercapacitor, or any other type of electrical storage device capable of storing electrical energy for later delivery to an electrical load). Attached Figure Description

[0006] This scheme will be described with reference to the following figures, wherein the same reference numerals denote the same items in all figures.

[0007] Figure 1A A schematic diagram of an exemplary energy storage module according to some non-limiting embodiments or aspects is provided.

[0008] Figure 1B An illustrative block diagram of the circuitry in the energy storage module is provided.

[0009] Figure 1C Circuit diagrams of energy storage modules according to some non-limiting embodiments or aspects are provided.

[0010] Figure 1D A perspective view of the energy storage module is provided.

[0011] Figure 1E An illustrative circuit diagram of a transistor active bridge circuit is provided. Figure 1A-1E Collectively referred to as "Figure 1".

[0012] Figure 2A-2C (collectively referred to as "Figure 2") is a schematic diagram of an exemplary energy storage module container according to some non-limiting embodiments or aspects of an energy storage module.

[0013] Figure 3A and 3B (collectively referred to as "Figure 3") is a schematic diagram of an example power system according to some non-limiting embodiments or aspects.

[0014] Figure 4 These are circuit diagrams of example power supply systems based on some non-limiting embodiments or aspects.

[0015] Figure 5 A block diagram of a circuit for controlling the operation of a power supply system based on calculated active power is provided.

[0016] Figure 6-8 Provides information that can be used to understand Figure 5 The diagram shows the operation of the circuit.

[0017] Figure 9 A flowchart illustrating the method for operating the circuit is provided. Detailed Implementation

[0018] This solution is described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings are not drawn to scale and are provided merely to illustrate the present solution. Several aspects of this solution are described below with reference to example applications used for illustration. It should be understood that many specific details, relationships, and methods are depicted to provide a comprehensive understanding of this solution. However, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that this solution can be practiced without one or more specific details or using other methods. In other cases, well-known structures or operations are not shown in detail to avoid obscuring this solution. This solution is not limited by the order of the actions or events shown, as some actions may occur in different orders and / or simultaneously with other actions or events. Furthermore, not all actions or events shown are required to implement the method according to this solution.

[0019] It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to also include the plural forms. Furthermore, within the scope of the terms “including,” “includes,” “having,” “has,” “with,” or variations thereof used in the detailed description and / or claims, these terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.”

[0020] Furthermore, unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this scheme pertains. It will be further understood that terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant field, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0021] As mentioned above, the conventional manufacturing process for battery cell components is relatively manual, inefficient, time-consuming, and expensive. Therefore, there is a need for a battery cell design that facilitates an improved manufacturing process. This solution relates to a novel temperature sensor design that allows for an improved manufacturing process for battery devices with cell temperature monitoring features.

[0022] Now for reference Figure 1A Figure 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of an example energy storage module 100 according to some non-limiting embodiments or aspects. As shown in Figure 1, the energy storage module 100 may include a housing 101, at least one energy storage component 102, a module controller 103, a connector 104, a top cover 105, and a bottom cover 106. The number and arrangement of components shown are provided as examples. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the energy storage module 100 may include additional components, fewer components, different components, or components arranged differently compared to those shown. Additionally or alternatively, a set of components (e.g., one or more components) of the energy storage module 100 may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another set of components of the energy storage module 100.

[0023] In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, housing 101 may include plastic, metal, any combination thereof, and / or the like. For example, housing 101 may include a plastic housing.

[0024] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, housing 101 may be configured to hold at least one (e.g., multiple) energy storage components 102. For example, as shown in FIG1, housing 101 may be shaped to have six energy storage components 102 uniformly distributed in an internal space defined by housing 101.

[0025] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, each energy storage component 102 may include at least one of a battery, a rechargeable battery (e.g., a lithium-ion battery), a cell (e.g., a battery cell, an electrochemical cell, etc.), a rechargeable cell, a capacitor, a supercapacitor, any combination thereof, etc. For example, as shown in FIG1, each energy storage component 102 may include a cylindrical cell (e.g., a lithium-ion battery cell).

[0026] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, module controller 103 may include a controller and associated circuitry. Optionally, module controller 103 may include a microcontroller, computing device, processor, digital signal processor (DSP), and / or any processing component (e.g., field-programmable gate array (FPGA), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc.) that can be configured to perform at least one function.

[0027] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, connector 104 can connect a terminal (e.g., an end) of each energy storage component 102 to module controller 103. Additionally or optionally, at least one connector 104 can connect at least one terminal (e.g., an end) of one energy storage component 102 to another terminal of another energy storage component 102. For example, connector 104 may include conductive (e.g., electrically conductive) materials, such as metals and / or the like. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, some or all of connector 104 can be used for voltage measurement of energy storage components 102 (e.g., battery cells).

[0028] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, each of the top cover 105 and the bottom cover 106 may comprise plastic, metal, any combination thereof, and / or the like. For example, each of the top cover 105 and the bottom cover 106 may comprise a plastic cover. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the top cover 105 and the bottom cover 106 may be configured (e.g., sized and shaped to) respectively cover openings at the top and bottom ends of the housing 101. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the top cover 105 may include a first electrical connection (e.g., S1 as described herein), a second electrical connection (e.g., S2 as described herein), and / or at least one communication connection, as described herein. For example, these connections may allow electrical and / or communication connections between the module controller 103 and external components (e.g., other components of the power system outside the energy storage module housing).

[0029] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the energy storage module 100 may include a battery module. For example, the battery module may include at least one energy storage component (e.g., a battery cell, such as a rechargeable battery cell). For illustrative purposes, as Figure 1A As shown, the battery module may include six energy storage components (e.g., rechargeable battery cells, such as lithium-ion batteries, supercapacitors, etc.).

[0030] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the energy storage components 102 (e.g., battery cells) of the energy storage module 100 may be connected in series. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the energy storage components 102 (e.g., battery cells) of the energy storage module 100 may be connected in parallel.

[0031] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, at least some of the energy storage components 102 (e.g., a subset thereof) may be connected in series, such that the voltage of the combination (e.g., summation, etc.) of the series-connected components meets (e.g., equals, exceeds, etc.) a target (e.g., desired) operating voltage of the energy storage module 100. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, at least some of the energy storage components 102 (e.g., a subset thereof) may be connected in parallel, such that the capacity (e.g., current) of the combination (e.g., summation, etc.) of the parallel-connected components meets (e.g., equals, exceeds, etc.) a target capacity (e.g., the operating current of the energy storage module 100). For example, the energy storage module 100 may include multiple subsets of energy storage components 102, such that each subset of energy storage components 102 is connected in series (e.g., combined to output a desired module voltage) or in parallel (e.g., combined to output a desired module current).

[0032] In these or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the energy storage module 100 may be the same as or similar to the battery module described in at least one of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022 / 0037891, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022 / 0247030, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022 / 0359918 and / or U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022 / 0360094, or may include at least some components that are the same as or similar to those battery modules, the disclosure of each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0033] like Figure 1B As shown, the circuit 120 of the energy storage module 100 includes voltage and optional current sensors 126 connected to the energy storage component 102. The energy storage component 102 may include, but is not limited to, as shown in the diagram. Figure 1B The energy storage unit is shown. Sensors 126 are configured to measure the voltage and / or current of each energy storage component. Circuitry 120 may also include temperature sensors 128 and module temperature sensors 130. Each temperature sensor 128 is configured to measure the temperature of one or more energy storage components, while the module temperature sensor 130 is configured to measure the internal temperature of the energy storage module. These sensor measurements are transmitted from sensors 126, 128, and 130 to data processing circuitry 132 for processing. Data processing circuitry 132 is connected to isolator 138. Data processing circuitry 132 may perform operations to transmit sensor measurements as sensor data to module controller 103 or external circuitry, and / or perform operations to analyze sensor measurements to determine whether certain criteria are met. For example, if a parameter measurement falls outside a defined range for a given time or a certain amount of time, data processing circuitry 132 causes selective circuit interruption 134 to change from a closed state to an open state, thereby shutting down energy storage module 100. Parameter measurements may include voltage measurements, current measurements, or temperature measurements.

[0034] Data processing circuitry 132 may be configured to access data storage(s) 136. Data storage(s) 136 may include computer-readable storage media having stored thereon one or more sets of instructions configured to implement one or more of the methods, processes, or functions described herein. During execution of the instructions by data processing circuitry 132, the instructions may also reside wholly or at least partially within data processing circuitry 132. Data storage(s) 136 and data processing circuitry 132 may also constitute machine-readable media. As used herein, the term "machine-readable media" refers to a single or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and / or associated caches and servers) that store one or more sets of instructions. The term "machine-readable media" as used herein also refers to any medium capable of storing, encoding, or carrying a set of instructions for execution by data processing circuitry 132 and causing data processing circuitry 132 to perform any one or more methods of this disclosure. Data processing circuitry 132 may include, but is not limited to, processors(s).

[0035] Circuit 120 also includes a switching circuit, shown herein in a non-limiting manner as a transistor active bridge circuit 144. The switching circuit includes at least one switching element. As some non-limiting examples, the switching circuit can be implemented as a bridge topology including the switching element, such as a full H-bridge or a half H-bridge. The switching circuit can be of any form, for example, facilitating the electrical connection of one or more memory components 102 to electrical connections S1 and / or S2. The switching circuit or transistor active bridge circuit 144 includes at least one switching element (e.g., a first switching element 110-1, a second switching element 110-2, a third switching element 110-3, and / or a fourth switching element 110-4, collectively referred to as "switching element 110," and individually referred to as "switching element 110"), a first electrical connection S1, and a second electrical connection S2.

[0036] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the switching element 110 may be part of the module controller 103 (e.g., integrated on, connected to, etc. of the module controller 103). In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the first electrical connection S1 and / or the second electrical connection S2 may be part of the module controller 103 (e.g., integrated on, connected to, etc. of the module controller 103) and / or may extend through the top cover 105. The number and arrangement of components shown are provided as examples. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the energy storage module 100 may include additional, fewer, different, or differently arranged components compared to those shown. Additionally or alternatively, a set of components (e.g., one or more components) of the energy storage module 100 may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another set of components of the energy storage module 100.

[0037] like Figure 1B As illustrated in the examples, energy storage module 100 may include six energy storage components 102 (e.g., rechargeable battery cells, etc.) connected in series. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, energy storage components 102 may be arranged in other ways and / or have other connections as described herein.

[0038] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the switching element 110 may be switched (e.g., open, close, activate, deactivate, etc.) to selectively connect (multiple) energy storage components 102 to a first electrical connection S1 and / or a second electrical connection S2, for example, to control the module voltage across the first electrical connection S1 and the second electrical connection S2. For example, the switching element 110 may be switched such that: (1) both the first electrical connection S1 and the second electrical connection S2 are connected to the negative side (e.g., DC negative) of the (multiple) energy storage components 102 (e.g., storage components 102 connected in series); (2) the first electrical connection S1 is connected to the negative side (e.g., DC negative) of the (multiple) energy storage components 102, and the second electrical connection S2 is connected to the positive side (e.g., DC positive) of the (multiple) energy storage components 102; or (3) the first electrical connection S1 is connected to the positive side (e.g., DC positive) of the (multiple) energy storage components 102, and the second electrical connection S2 is connected to the negative side (e.g., DC negative) of the (multiple) energy storage components 102. Thus, the voltage across the first electrical connection S1 and the second electrical connection S2 can be zero, negative, or positive, respectively.

[0039] For illustrative purposes, in order to connect both the first electrical connection S1 and the second electrical connection S2 to the negative side (e.g., DC negative) of the energy storage assembly(s) 102, the fourth switching element 110-4 and the third switching element 110-3 can be activated (e.g., closed, configured to act as a closed switch, turned on, etc.), while the second switching element 110-2 and the first switching element 110-1 are deactivated (e.g., disconnected, configured to act as a disconnected switch, turned off, etc.). To connect the first electrical connection S1 to the negative side (e.g., DC negative) of the energy storage assembly(s) 102 and the second electrical connection S2 to the positive side (e.g., DC positive) of the energy storage assembly(s) 102, the fourth switching element 110-4 and the second switching element 110-2 can be activated, while the third switching element 110-3 and the first switching element 110-1 are deactivated. To connect the first electrical connection S1 to the positive side (e.g., DC positive) of the energy storage components 102 and the second electrical connection S2 to the negative side (e.g., DC negative) of the energy storage components 102, the first switching element 110-1 and the third switching element 110-3 can be activated, and the fourth switching element 110-4 and the second switching element 110-2 can be deactivated. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the switching element 110 can be operated to be in states such as: a high impedance (Hi-Z) state (e.g., where all switching elements 110 are deactivated), a bypass state (e.g., where low-side switching elements 110-3 and 110-4 are activated, while high-side switching elements 110-1 and 110-2 are deactivated), and a bipolar state (e.g., where the energy storage components 102 are connected between the first electrical connection S1 and the second electrical connection S2 in opposite polarities). Even in the example discussed, where storage components 102 are stacked between electrical connections S1 and S2, it should be understood that individual cell / storage component level connections are also possible, for example, by providing additional switching components to the switching circuit. Therefore, each, some, or all of the storage components 102 of module 100 may be connectable at electrical connections S1 and / or S2.

[0040] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, each switching element 110 may include at least one of a transistor (e.g., a bipolar transistor, a field-effect transistor (FET), a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET), etc.), a switch, a contactor, any combination thereof, etc. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the energy storage module 100 may include one or more driver circuits, such as gate driver circuits, for driving each switching element 110. For example, the driver circuitry may be part of the module controller 103 (e.g., integrated on the module controller 103, connected to the module controller 103, etc.).

[0041] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, each switching element 110 may be driven or controlled via module controller 103. For example, as described herein, module controller 103 may control the switching element 110 to selectively connect the energy storage component(s) 102 to a first electrical connection S1 and / or a second electrical connection S2. For example, module controller 103 may be connected to each switching element 110 to drive or optionally control such a switching element 110. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, module controller 103 provides signals to gate driver circuitry for driving the switching element 110.

[0042] like Figure 1C As shown, each energy storage module 100 can be represented by a symbol (e.g., for the sake of simplicity and clarity in the following figures). The symbols are shown on the right-hand side. On the left, a transistor active bridge circuit 144 is shown in a non-limiting manner to illustrate the possible relationship between the terminals S1, S2 of the symbol 100 and the switching circuit, which in this example is shown as bridge circuit 144.

[0043] Figure 1D An illustration of the energy storage module 100 is provided. Figure 1A An assembled view of the energy storage module 100 is provided. The energy storage module 100 includes a housing 101 in which energy storage components 102 are housed to maintain certain positions relative to each other. The energy storage components 102 can be arranged in two rows of three components each, such as... Figure 1A As shown. This solution is not limited in this respect. The energy storage component can have the same characteristics as... Figure 1A The arrangements shown are different. Depending on the application, any number of energy storage components can be provided in the energy storage module. Each energy storage component may include, but is not limited to, a lithium-ion battery. The lithium-ion battery may have a cylindrical shape as shown or another shape not shown (e.g., a rectangular shape).

[0044] A top cover 105 and a bottom cover 106 are provided for the housing 101. Covers 105 and 106 can be configured to provide an environmental seal with respect to the housing 101. This can be achieved by compressing gaskets between the covers 105 and 106 and the sidewalls of the housing. Figure 1D and / or Figure 1A (Not visible or shown) to facilitate environmental sealing. Module 100 also includes a power output interface 151. It should be understood that electrical connections S1, S2 may be part of the power output interface 151.

[0045] Safe and reliable operation of the energy storage module 100 may require continuous monitoring of each energy storage component 102, for example, to detect when its current (optional), voltage, and / or temperature fall outside the defined operating range(s). This monitoring can be achieved using circuitry 120, which may also be housed within the housing 101. Conductive connectors 104 are provided to connect the energy storage component 102 to the circuitry 120 for at least voltage measurement. In some non-limiting examples, conductive terminals 104 may also be used to direct heat generated during operation away from the circuitry 120 (e.g., heat generated by the switching element 110), preferably away from the module 100. Alternatively or additionally, in some non-limiting examples, the circuitry 120 may be arranged such that the storage components 102 are also used to direct heat generated during operation away from the circuitry 120. For example, thermal coupling (e.g., passive and / or active, such as gas or fluid cooling) may be provided between the circuitry 120 and one or more storage components 102. Alternatively or additionally, as some non-limiting examples, the power output interface 151 (e.g., via either connection S1 and / or S2) can be used to remove heat generated during operation from circuit 120. For example, conductive terminals 104 and connections S1 and S2 are implemented in a conductive material such as metal. Electrical conductors are generally also good thermal conductors. This can be utilized to act as a heat sink or heat pipe to remove heat generated during operation (e.g., heat generated when the switching components conduct current) from circuit 120. It should be understood that, individually or in any combination, these measures can make module 100 more compact and, in some cases, also allow for hermetically sealed module 100. This can further result in more compact systems using one or more such modules 100. These measures can also result in modules and / or systems that include one or more modules that do not require active cooling (e.g., fans or any other type of additional components or media for cooling).

[0046] like Figure 1E As shown in a non-limiting example, the switching circuit or transistor active bridge circuit 144 includes gate drivers 1601, 1602, voltage regulator 164, diodes 1661, 1662 (collectively referred to as "166"), optional resistors 1701, 1702, 1703, 1704 (collectively referred to as "170"), capacitors 1781, 1782, 1801, 1802, and transistor active bridge 144. The transistor active bridge circuit 144 supplies a voltage waveform from the energy storage component 102. Therefore, the transistor active bridge circuit 144 is connected to the energy storage component 102 via input lines 152, 154. Input line 152 may be referred to as the high input line, and input line 154 may be referred to as the low input line. The transistor active bridge circuit 144 is also connected between a pair of output lines 156, 158. Output lines 156, 158 are connected to... Figure 1DThe power output interface 151. Referring to the preceding figures and discussion, it should be understood that the high input line 152 can be connected to the positive terminal of the storage component stack 102, while the low input line 154 can be connected to the negative terminal of the storage component stack 102.

[0047] The transistor active bridge circuit 144 includes multiple switching elements or switches, shown in this example as N-channel type field-effect transistors (FETs) 110-2, 110-3, 110-1, and 110-4. Each FET may include a metal-oxide-semiconductor FET (MOSFET), but other types of switches or FETs of the type shown may also be considered (e.g., insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs), bipolar junction transistors (BJTs), gate-off thyristors (GTOs), or similar combinations thereof). Each FET 110-2, 110-3, 110-1, and 110-4 has three (3) terminals, respectively defined as source S, gate G, and drain D. An electrical path is provided from the source to the drain of each FET 110-2, 110-3, 110-1, and 110-4. This path is generally referred to herein as a source-drain path. The source-drain path of the first FET 110-2 is connected in series with the source-drain path of the second FET 110-3. The series-connected transistor pairs 110-2 and 110-3 form a first series transistor combination connected across input lines 152 and 154. The source-drain path of the third FET 110-1 is connected in series with the source-drain path of the fourth FET 110-4 to form a second series transistor combination connected across input lines 152 and 154.

[0048] The transistor active bridge circuit 144 may have outputs defined by output lines 156 and 158. A first output line in output line 156 may be connected to a first series combination 110-2 / 110-3 at interconnect point 194 between the first field-effect transistor 110-2 and the second field-effect transistor 110-3. A second output line in output line 158 may be connected to a second series combination 110-1 / 110-4 at interconnect point 196 between the third field-effect transistor 110-1 and the fourth field-effect transistor 110-4.

[0049] Gate driver 1601 is provided for driving the gate G of each FET 110-2, 110-3. Similarly, gate driver 1602 is provided for driving the gate G of each FET 110-1, 110-4. In this respect, the gate driver is configured to supply a voltage to the gate G of each respective FET at specific times to switch the FET to its "on" or "off" state. The gate driver is also configured to stop supplying voltage to the gate G of the FET at specific times to switch the FET to its "on" or "off" state. Gate driver circuitry is well known. Known or to be known gate driver circuitry may be used herein.

[0050] When the gate driver sends a gate control signal to the FETs, FETs 110-2, 110-3, 110-1, and 110-4 are biased and switched to their "on" state. In effect, current flows between the drain (D) and source (S) of these FETs. When the gate control signal is no longer output from the gate driver, the FETs switch back to their "off" state. The gate driver is configured to prevent two FETs in each series pair 110-2 / 110-3 and 110-1 / 110-4 from closing simultaneously or concurrently.

[0051] The FETs are alternately switched by gate drivers to provide a certain power output on lines 156 and 158. For example, when the energy storage module is in its "on" state, one of the high-side FETs 110-2 and 110-1 transitions to its "on" state for a given period of time (e.g., 1 microsecond). 15 milliseconds (ms), as some other non-limiting examples, a few microseconds (s) s), 10 s, 20 (e.g., 50 s, 0.1 ms, 2 ms, 5 ms, or even 10 ms). When the energy storage module is in its "off" state, the two high-side FETs 110-2 and 110-1 are in their "off" state, and the two low-side FETs 110-3 and 110-4 are in their "on" state. In effect, the two low-side FETs are on, while the two high-side FETs are not on.

[0052] A capacitor 178 is provided to store the charge used to drive the respective FETs 110-2, 110-1. The respective capacitor 178 can be charged via its respective diode 166. In this respect, the supply voltage of the high-side gate driver output stages 1761, 1762 is stored in capacitors 1781, 1782. Each of the capacitors 1781, 1782 is recharged when the respective output lines 156, 158 turn toward the low-side supply line 154, for example, when the respective low-side FET 110-3 or 110-4 switches to the "on" state. For example, when FET 110-3 is "on", the potential at output S2 is pulled toward the potential at the source S of FET 110-3. At this time, diode 1661 becomes on, causing current to flow from voltage regulator 164 through capacitor 1781 and transistor 110-3 to line 154. In effect, capacitor 1781 is recharged when current flows through it. When the potential at output S2 turns back toward the high power line 152, diode 1661 acts as a blocking diode, preventing the charge on capacitor 1781 from flowing back toward voltage regulator 164. Therefore, charging capacitor 1781 supplies voltage to the high-side gate driver output stage 1761 to drive the gate terminal of FET 110-2. At some point, the capacitor will be discharged to a level that could cause gate driver 1601 to enter an undervoltage mode where the gate driver ceases operation. The capacitor is recharged before reaching this discharge level. An advantage of this teaching is that switching of low-side FETs 110-3 and 110-4 can be used to simultaneously charge their corresponding capacitors 178, which drive high-side FETs 110-2 and 110-1.

[0053] It is quite common to use charge pumps or transformer-isolated (e.g., multi-channel) DC-DC converters in gate driver circuits to enhance the power supply system to the gate driver. These circuits tend to be relatively expensive. Figure 1E As can be clearly seen, circuit 144 has no charge pump, thus making it less expensive than conventional transistor active bridge circuits. The elimination of the charge pump is achieved using circuit components 166 and 178, thereby providing voltage to the high-side gate driver output stage 176 in a controlled manner to avoid or minimize the possibility of the gate driver 1601 entering an undervoltage mode.

[0054] Capacitors 1801 and 1802 serve a similar function to capacitors 1781 and 1782. However, capacitors 1801 and 1802 are permanently supplied with a voltage signal by voltage regulator 164. Therefore, low-side FETs 110-3 and 110-4 can be "on" for a desired time. When low-side FET 110-3 is in its "on" state, the potential at output S2 is equal to the potential at source S of FET 110-3. Similarly, when the FET is in its "on" state, the potential at output S1 is equal to the potential at source S of FET 110-4.

[0055] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the housing 202 may be configured to hold at least one (e.g., multiple, a group, etc.) energy storage module 100. For example, as Figure 2A As shown, the housing 202 can be shaped to have three energy storage modules 100 evenly distributed within the internal space defined by the housing 202. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, as described herein, any number of energy storage modules 100 may be present. For example, the housing 202 may contain six energy storage modules 100, nine energy storage modules 100, twelve energy storage modules 100, etc.

[0056] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the strip connection 204 may connect to the energy storage module 100 within the housing 202. For example, as Figure 2A As shown, a first (e.g., left) strip connection 204 can connect a second electrical connection S2 of a first (e.g., left) energy storage module 100 to a first electrical connection S1 of a second (e.g., central) energy storage module 100, and a second (e.g., right) strip connection 204 can connect the second electrical connection S2 of the second (e.g., central) energy storage module 100 to a first electrical connection S1 of a third (e.g., right) energy storage module 100. Thus, these energy storage modules 100 can be connected in series. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the energy storage modules 100 and / or strip connections 204 can be other arrangements and / or have other connections (e.g., connected in series, parallel, a combination of series and parallel connections, and / or similar arrangements, as described herein). In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, strip connections 204 may include conductive (e.g., electrically conductive) materials, such as metals and / or the like. As previously mentioned, in some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the strip connection 204 may also be used to guide the heat generated during operation away from the corresponding module 100 to which the corresponding strip connection 204 is connected (e.g., from the circuitry 120 of the corresponding module 100).

[0057] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, electrical connections 206-1, 206-2 (collectively, "206") may include conductive (e.g., electrically conductive) materials, such as metals and / or the like. For example, electrical connection 206 may include wires, cables, and / or the like. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, electrical connection 206 may allow electrical connections between energy storage module container 200 (e.g., energy storage module 100 within energy storage module container 200) and external components (e.g., other components of the power system outside housing 202).

[0058] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the first electrical connection 206-1 may be connected to the first electrical connection S1 of at least one energy storage module 100. For example, the first electrical connection 206-1 may be connected to the first electrical connection S1 of the first (e.g., left-hand) energy storage module 100 in a series-connected group of energy storage modules 100. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the second electrical connection 206-2 may be connected to the second electrical connection S2 of at least one energy storage module 100. For example, the second electrical connection 206-2 may be connected to the second electrical connection S2 of the last (e.g., right-hand) energy storage module 100 in a series-connected group of energy storage modules 100.

[0059] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, communication connection 208 may include at least one component that allows communication between other components. For example, communication connection 208 may include a bus connection (e.g., a digital bus, such as a Controller Area Network bus (CAN bus), an Isolated Serial Port Interface (isoSPI), any derivative thereof, any combination thereof, etc.). In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, communication connection 208 may allow communication between a container energy storage module 100 within the energy storage module container 200 (e.g., a module controller 103 of such energy storage module 100) and external components (e.g., other components of the power system outside the housing 202, such as a system controller and / or the like). The system controller may provide signals (e.g., commands) to any module controller 103 via communication connection 208 for operating its switching element 110 in a specific (e.g., controlled) manner (e.g., via one or more gate driver circuits).

[0060] Figure 2B-2C A schematic diagram of an exemplary energy storage module container 200 according to some non-limiting embodiments or aspects is provided. Figure 2A-2CAs shown, the energy storage module container 200 may include at least one energy storage module 100 (e.g., multiple or groups of energy storage modules 100 and / or the like), a housing 202 (e.g., including a top cover 202a and a retainer 202b), a strip connection 204, a first electrical connection 206-1 and a second electrical connection 206-2 (collectively referred to as "electrical connection 206" and individually as "electrical connection 206") and / or a communication connection 208. The number and arrangement of the components shown are provided as examples. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the energy storage module container 200 may include additional components, fewer components, different components, or components arranged differently compared to the components shown. Additionally or alternatively, a set of components (e.g., one or more components) of the energy storage module container 200 may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another set of components of the energy storage module container 200. In some non-limiting examples, container 200 and / or housing 202 may be constructed of thermally conductive materials, for example, to conduct operational heat generated in module 100 away. This, in particular, combined with the previously discussed measures for heat transfer, can also allow for sealing container 200 and / or housing 202, resulting in devices that can operate in the presence of moisture and / or dust. Furthermore, the requirement for active cooling can be avoided. Alternatively, thermally conductive coupling (e.g., air- and / or fluid-based cooling) may be provided at one or more locations (e.g., circuitry 120, top cover 155, bottom cover 157, module housing 101, power output interface 151, strip 204, housing 202, and container 200) to improve heat flow.

[0061] Now for reference Figure 3A and 3B A schematic diagram of an exemplary power system (shown herein as power system 300) according to some non-limiting embodiments or aspects is shown. Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, the power system 300 may include at least one energy storage module container 200 (e.g., each energy storage module container includes at least one energy storage module 100), electrical connection 206, communication connection 208, housing 302, system controller 304, input connection 306, at least one output connection (e.g., a first output connection 308-1 and / or a second output connection 308-2, collectively referred to as "output connection 308" and individually referred to as "output connection 308") and / or choke coil 402. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the power system 300 may also include a communication connection 310. For the sake of brevity and clarity, Figure 3AThe electrical connection 206 and communication connection 208 inside the energy storage module container 200 are not shown, but (multiple) energy storage modules 100 can be connected to the electrical connection 206 and / or communication connection 208, as described herein. For the sake of brevity and clarity, Figure 3A The connections between the energy storage module container 200 (and / or its multiple energy storage modules 100) and the input connection 306, multiple output connections 308, and / or communication connection 310 are not shown in the diagram, but the energy storage module container 200 (and / or its multiple energy storage modules 100) may be connected to the input connection 306, multiple output connections 308, and / or communication connection 310 as described herein. For the sake of brevity and clarity, Figure 3A The connections between system controller 304 and input connection 306, output connection(s) 308, and / or communication connection 310 are not shown, but system controller 304 may be connected to input connection 306, output connection(s) 308, and / or communication connection 310 as described herein. The number and arrangement of components shown are provided as examples. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, power system 300 may include additional components, fewer components, different components, or components with different arrangements compared to the components shown. Additionally or alternatively, a set of components (e.g., one or more components) of power system 300 may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another set of components of power system 300. For example, in those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, choke coil 402 may be included in and / or part of system controller 304.

[0062] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, housing 302 may comprise plastic, metal, any combination thereof, and / or the like. For example, housing 302 may comprise a metal housing, such as an aluminum housing. Similar to what has been discussed above, in some non-limiting examples, thermal coupling may be provided between housing 202 and / or container 200 and housing 302 to improve heat transfer / dissipation.

[0063] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, housing 302 may be configured to hold at least one (e.g., multiple) energy storage containers 200 and / or at least one (e.g., multiple) energy storage modules 100. For example, housing 302 may be configured to hold two energy storage containers 200, three energy storage containers 200, four energy storage containers 200, etc. For illustrative purposes, housing 302 may be configured to hold two energy storage containers 200, each energy storage container 200 may hold twelve (or more) energy storage modules 100 (e.g., a total of 24 (or more) energy storage modules 100). For illustrative purposes, housing 302 may be configured to hold three energy storage containers 200, each energy storage container 200 may hold eight (or more) energy storage modules 100 (e.g., a total of 24 (or more) energy storage modules 100). Other non-limiting configurations are also possible. For example, housing 302 may hold four energy storage containers 200, and each energy storage container 200 may hold six (or more) energy storage modules 100 (e.g., a total of 24 (or more) energy storage modules 100). For illustrative purposes, housing 302 may be configured to hold two energy storage containers 200, and each energy storage container 200 may hold three (or more) energy storage modules 100 (e.g., a total of 6 (or more) energy storage modules 100). In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the (or more) energy storage containers 200 and / or (or more) energy storage modules 100 may be otherwise arranged within housing 302.

[0064] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, housing 302 may include multiple compartments separated by partitions 302d (e.g., walls, barriers, and / or the like). For example, the number of compartments may be equal to the number of energy storage containers 200 (e.g., a corresponding compartment for each respective energy storage module container 200). Each compartment may be separated from adjacent compartments by partitions 302d. For example, one partition 302d may divide the interior space of housing 302 into two compartments, two partitions 302d may divide the interior space of housing 302 into three compartments, and so on. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, partitions 302d may be part of housing 302 and / or may include the same material as housing 302 (e.g., aluminum, metal, plastic, etc.).

[0065] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, such as Figure 3BAs shown, housing 302 may include a body 302a, a first end cap 302b, a second end cap 302c, and / or at least one partition 302d. In these or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, body 302a and / or partition 302d may include a first material (e.g., a metal, such as aluminum), and first end cap 302b and / or second end cap 302c may include a second material (e.g., plastic). In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, at least one of first end cap 302b and / or second end cap 302c may include the same material as body 302a and / or partition 302d. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, first end cap 302b and second end cap 302c may be configured (e.g., sized and shaped to) cover openings at corresponding ends of body 302a.

[0066] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the first end cap 302b and / or the second end cap 302c may include (and / or may have space to accommodate) an input connection 306, (a plurality of) output connections 308, and / or a communication connection 310. For illustrative purposes, as Figure 3B As shown, input connection 306 and communication connection 310 may be located at the first end cap 302b, and output connection 308 may be located at the second end cap 302c. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, input connection 306, output connection(s) 308, and / or communication connection 310 may be other arrangements. For example, input connection 306, output connection(s) 308, and communication connection 310 may all be located at the same end cap (e.g., one of the first end cap 302b or the second end cap 302c). As another example, input connection 306 may be located at one end cap, and communication connection 310 and output connection(s) 308 may be located at another end cap. As another example, input connection 306 and output connection(s) 308 may be located at one end cap, and communication connection 310 may be located at another end cap. As another example, first output connection 308-1 may be located at one end cap, and second output connection 308-2 may be located at another end cap.

[0067] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, system controller 304 may include a controller and associated circuitry. For example, system controller 304 may include a microcontroller, computing device, processor, digital signal processor (DSP), and / or any processing component that can be configured to perform at least one function (e.g., field-programmable gate array (FPGA), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc.). In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, system controller 304 may be communicatively connected to energy storage module container 200 and / or (multiple) energy storage modules 100 (e.g., their module controllers 103) via communication connection 208. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, system controller 304 may be electrically connected to energy storage module container 200 and / or (multiple) energy storage modules 100 (e.g., their energy storage components 102) via electrical connection 206. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, choke coil 402 may be included in and / or part of system controller 304.

[0068] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, input connection 306 may include at least one connector (e.g., at least one standardized electrical plug connector, such as for mains power and / or compatible electrical components). In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, each output connection 308 may include at least one connector (e.g., at least one standardized electrical plug connector, such as for mains power and / or compatible electrical devices). For example, first output connection 308-1 may include a connector suitable for 100-127V (e.g., at a frequency of 60 Hz suitable for the United States of America, North America, etc.) (e.g., a standardized electrical plug connector). For example, second output connection 308-2 may include a connector suitable for 200-240V (e.g., at a frequency of 50 Hz suitable for the European Union, etc.) (e.g., a standardized electrical plug connector). In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, communication connection 310 may include at least one connector (e.g., at least one standardized communication plug connector). For example, communication connection 310 may include at least one of a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector (e.g., USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, USB Power Delivery (USB-PD), mini USB, micro USB, etc.), an Ethernet connector, a coaxial cable connector, a pin connector, a CAN bus connector, or any combination thereof.

[0069] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the choke 402 may be electrically connected (e.g., coupled, etc.) to (a plurality of) energy storage module containers 200 and / or (a plurality of) energy storage modules 100, as described herein. For example, a first energy storage module container 200 and / or a first group of energy storage modules 100 may be connected to a first connection portion (e.g., a first end, a first winding, etc.) of the choke 402, as described herein. Additionally or alternatively, a second energy storage module container 200 and / or a second group of energy storage modules 100 may be connected to a second connection portion (e.g., a second end, a second winding, etc.) of the choke 402, as described herein.

[0070] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, system controller 304 may command module controller 103 of the energy storage module(s) 100 to generate an output voltage based on a combination (e.g., summation and / or such) of the corresponding module voltages of each respective energy storage module 100, as described herein. For example, by sequentially connecting the energy storage module(s) 100 in a time-shifted manner in series, the combined (e.g., summed) voltage may approximate an AC voltage waveform having a target amplitude (e.g., a voltage substantially equal to the nominal voltage of the mains power, such as 100-127V, 200-240V, etc.) and / or a target frequency (e.g., a frequency substantially equal to the nominal frequency of the mains power, such as 60Hz, 50Hz, etc.), as described herein.

[0071] In these or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, system controller 304 may command module controllers 103 of the energy storage modules 100 to generate an output voltage based on a combination (e.g., summation, etc.) of the corresponding module voltages of each respective energy storage module 100, as described herein. For example, by modulating the duty cycles differently for multiple energy storage modules 100 connected in series, the combined (e.g., summed) voltage can approximate (e.g., better approximate) an AC voltage waveform with a target amplitude and / or target frequency, as described herein. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the duty cycle of the corresponding module voltage may relate to a switching voltage scheme, such as a pulse width modulation (PWM) type waveform. For example, system controller 304 may command module controllers 103 of the energy storage modules 100 to switch their output voltages at a specific frequency and / or duty cycle. The exact number or range of switching frequencies is not required for the scope or generality of the teachings of this disclosure. As some non-limiting examples, the system's switching frequency can be in the kHz range (1 kHz to 999 kHz). For example, the system's switching frequency and / or PWM frequency can be between 40 kHz and 100 kHz. In some cases, the system's switching frequency and / or PWM frequency can be at or near 90 kHz. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the module output can switch at a frequency between 1.5 kHz and 7.5 kHz (e.g., PWM). For example, the module output can switch at a frequency between 3.5 kHz and 4.5 kHz (e.g., PWM). As another example, the module output can switch at a frequency of 3.75 kHz or around 3.75 kHz (e.g., PWM). As another example, the module output can switch at a frequency of 4 kHz or around 4 kHz (e.g., PWM). In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the system's switching frequency or PWM frequency can be proportional to the product of the switching frequency and / or PWM frequency of the energy storage module 100 and the number of energy storage modules 100. It should be understood that the duty cycle can be any value between 0% and 100%, depending, for example, on the duration of operation of the corresponding energy storage module 100. For instance, a 0% duty cycle for a given energy storage module 100 could mean that the energy storage module 100 is indicated to be disabled or in bypass mode (the energy storage module 100 does not contribute to the output voltage but is still able to carry current), and a 100% duty cycle could mean that the energy storage module 100 is indicated to be turned on or activated with a given polarity.For example, by scanning the duty cycle of a given energy storage module 100 over time (e.g., between 0% and 100%), the effective output voltage of the energy storage module 100 can be increased or decreased more finely between voltage steps associated with a complete switch between two consecutive energy storage modules 100. The various energy storage modules 100 can, for example, be orchestrated by the system controller 304 to generate an output voltage based on a combination of the respective module voltages of each corresponding energy storage module 100, as described herein.

[0072] Now for reference Figure 4 The diagram illustrates a circuit diagram of an example electrical system (e.g., a power delivery circuit / system such as power supply system 400) according to some non-limiting embodiments or aspects. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, power supply system 400 may be the same as or similar to electrical system 300. The number and arrangement of components shown are provided as examples. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, power supply system 400 may include additional components, fewer components, different components, or components arranged differently compared to the components shown. Additionally or alternatively, a set of components (e.g., one or more components) of power supply system 400 may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another set of components of power supply system 400.

[0073] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, such as Figure 4 As shown, input connection 306 can be connected to input choke 416. Input choke 416 can be connected to input capacitor 418 and / or at least one input inductor (e.g., first input inductor 420-1 and / or second input inductor 420-2, collectively referred to as "input inductor 420", and individually referred to as "input inductor 420"). For example, input choke 416 can be provided for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) reasons. Similarly, input capacitor 418 can be provided as an EMC capacitor (and / or a Class X capacitor) that can stabilize the input voltage and / or reduce the input impedance at higher frequencies. For example, input inductors (multiple) 420 can be used to operate power system 400 in controlled current mode.

[0074] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the first output connection 308-1 may be connected to the first output choke 414-1. The first output choke 414-1 may be connected to at least one of the capacitor 412-1 and / or the inductor 410.

[0075] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the second output connection 308-2 may be connected to the second output choke 414-2. The second output choke 414-2 may be connected to the capacitor 412-2.

[0076] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, each choke (e.g., input choke 416, first output choke 414-1, and / or second output choke 414-2) may be, for example, a common-mode choke for EMC performance. It should be understood that further discussion of EMC inductors or capacitors is not necessary for the scope or generality of this teaching.

[0077] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, input switch 424 may selectively connect and / or disconnect input 406 to the first set 401-1 and the second set 401-2 of energy storage module 100. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, input switch 424 at input 406 may be switched to a first state (e.g., closed, active, etc.) for operation in a third operating mode (e.g., charging operating mode). For example, switching input switch 424 to the first state (e.g., closed, active, etc.) may allow current to flow from input connection 306 through input 406 to the first set 401-1 and the second set 401-2 of energy storage module 100 (e.g., to charge energy storage module 100). In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, a power source (e.g., mains power, generator power, renewable power (e.g., solar, wind, etc.)) may be connected to input connection 306. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, system controller 304 may control the module controller of energy storage module 100 to charge its energy storage component 102 (e.g., based on power from a power source).

[0078] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, in order to stop the third operating mode (e.g., stop charging) and / or prevent current from flowing to the input connection 306 when the power system 400 is not in the third (e.g., charging) operating mode, the input switch 424 at the input 406 may be switched to a second state (e.g., on, off, etc.).

[0079] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, at least one output switching element (e.g., a first output switch 426-1 and / or a second output switch 426-2, collectively referred to as “output switch 426”, and individually referred to as “output switch 426”) may selectively connect and / or disconnect the output 408 from the first set 401-1 and the second set 401-2 of the energy storage module 100.

[0080] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, in order to operate in the first operating mode, in addition to switching switch 404 to the first state (e.g., closed, activated, etc.), the first output switch 426-1 may also be switched to the first state (e.g., closed, activated, etc.). For example, this may allow current to flow from the first set 401-1 and the second set 401-2 of the energy storage module 100 through the first output 408-1 (and the inductor 410 and / or capacitor 412-1) to the first output connection 308-1 (e.g., to power a load connected to the first output connection 308-1). In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, when the power system 400 is not in the first operating mode, in order to prevent current from flowing to the first output connection 308-1, the first output switch 426-1 may be switched to a second state (e.g., open, deactivated, etc.).

[0081] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, in order to operate in the second operating mode, the second output switch 426-2 may be switched to a first state (e.g., closed, active, etc.) in addition to switching switch 404 to a second state (e.g., off, deactivated, etc.). For example, this may allow current to flow from the first set 401-1 and the second set 401-2 of the energy storage module 100 through the second output 408-2 (and capacitor 412-2) to the second output connection 308-2 (e.g., to power a load connected to the second output connection 308-2). In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, in order to prevent current from flowing to the second output connection 308-2 when the power system 400 is not in the second operating mode, the second output switch 426-2 may be switched to a second state (e.g., on, off, etc.).

[0082] In those or other non-limiting embodiments, the first and second operating modes can be used to provide multi-voltage operation via the power supply system 400. For example, in the first operating mode, the first set 401-1 and the second set 401-2 of the energy storage modules 100 can be connected in parallel, while in the second operating mode, the first set 401-1 and the second set 401-2 of the energy storage modules 100 can be connected in series. It should be understood that the first operating mode can provide an output voltage lower than that provided in the second operating mode. However, the output current provided in the first operating mode can be greater than that provided in the second operating mode. For example, the first operating mode can provide a 110 V output, while the second operating mode provides a 220 V output. This can advantageously allow the power supply system 400 to be used for multi-voltage domain operation. For example, the 110 V AC power supply voltage domain is mainly used in the United States, while the 220 V AC power supply voltage domain is used in Europe. Therefore, the power supply system 400 can allow for the flexible use of appliances rated for any voltage domain. A particular advantage of the illustrated configuration is that the output power can be similar or the same in either mode. For example, assuming the same groups (401-1 and 401-2) operate in the same manner, even if the output voltage in the first mode is half that in the second mode, the output current in the first mode can be twice that in the second mode. This allows for the use of similar power levels regardless of the voltage domain in which the power system 400 output is operating. The examples of 110 V and 220 V are not limited to this teaching, as any voltage domain or operating frequency can be implemented with this structure. Furthermore, it is not limited to having two domains that are related to each other by an integer factor in terms of voltage and / or current. It should be understood that the operating cycle (e.g., the sequence of multiple modules) can be adjusted according to the operating mode of the power system 400.

[0083] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, each of the input switch 424 and the output switch 426 may include at least one of a switch, a contactor, a transistor, any combination thereof, and / or the like. For example, each of the input switch 424 and the output switch 426 may include at least one of an SPST switch, a DPDT switch, an SPDT switch, a DPST switch, any combination thereof, etc. For example, each of the input switch 424 and the output switch 426 may include at least one of a DPDT switch or a DPST switch. For illustrative purposes, as Figure 4 As shown, each of the input switch 424 and the output switch 426 may include a DPST switch or a DPDT switch.

[0084] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the power system 400 may include a current sensor 422 that can communicate with a system controller 304 (e.g., a microcontroller). In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, each current sensor 422 may include a shunt amplifier. For example, each shunt amplifier may reference a common potential (e.g., a reference voltage), which the system controller 304 (e.g., a microcontroller) may also reference. In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, at least some (e.g., all, a subset, etc.) of the current sensors 422 may be any other suitable type of current sensor. For example, the current sensor 422 may include measuring the voltage drop across a resistor connected in series (e.g., to at least one of the first group 401-1 and / or the second group 401-2 energy storage modules 100), for example, to measure the current flowing through the resistor (and / or any component connected in series with the resistor). In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, at least one current sensor 422 may be of a different type than another current sensor 422. For example, the current sensor 422 connected to the first set 401-1 of the energy storage module 100 may have a different type than another current sensor 422 connected to the second set 401-2 of the energy storage module 100.

[0085] In those or other non-limiting embodiments or aspects, by measuring the current at the location of the current sensor 422, the following can be measured (e.g., by system controller 304, etc.): output current (e.g., in a redundant manner), input current (e.g., in a redundant manner), and circulating current (e.g., if connected in series and parallel). In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, the current sensor can measure the current flowing through each of the first set 401-1 and the second set 401-2 of the energy storage module 100. Thus, a relative measurement can be performed to detect whether circulating (e.g., loop) current flows between the first set 401-1 and the second set 401-2 of the energy storage module 100. In other words, such a relative measurement can be used to detect that the load current is evenly distributed between the sets. Such a measurement can also be used to coordinate the operation of the energy storage module 100, for example, in a manner that can reduce (e.g., eliminate) the circulating (e.g., loop) current. Additionally or alternatively, this arrangement may also include disabling certain energy storage modules 100 in any group 401, even if such disabling results in an unequal number of active energy storage modules 100 between groups 401. This can help operate the power system 400, for example, even if the energy storage modules 100 between groups 401 have different charge levels. Additionally or alternatively, such an arrangement may include interleaving the first module voltage of the first group 401-1 with the second module voltage of the second group 401-2. Interleaving the module voltages can be accomplished by phase-shifting the output voltage of one group relative to the output of the other group. Additionally or alternatively, this arrangement may include tolerating or even producing voltage imbalances between the first group 401-1 and the second group 401-2 in some non-limiting embodiments or aspects. This can cause the loop current tending to flow from one group 401 to the other to become a low-frequency current, which can be used, for example, to equalize the charge states between the two groups 401. Even in such a non-limiting embodiment or aspect, the choke 402 can block high-frequency currents but can allow low-frequency or DC currents to flow from a collection 401 having a higher voltage than the other collection 401. This allows the power system 400 to be more robust, flexible, and balanced. In some non-limiting embodiments or aspects, an absolute measurement, such as determining the total current flowing through the first collection 401-1 and / or the second collection 401-2 energy storage modules 100, can be performed using a current sensor 422. It should be understood that the imbalance may be caused by a unequal number of energy storage modules 100 operating in one collection 401 compared to the number operating in the other collection 401. Additionally or alternatively, the imbalance may be due to unequal charge levels between the two collections 401. Similarly, the power system 400 may also include circuitry for voltage measurement in one or more networks of the power system 400.Specifying which voltage measurement circuit or scheme must be used is neither necessary nor limiting for this disclosure.

[0086] This solution provides a novel technique for controlling the operation of power systems 300, 400 and energy storage module 100. Compared to conventional solutions, this novel technique is less computationally and resource-intensive. Details of the novel technique will become apparent as the discussion progresses. However, it should be noted that this novel technique provides a method for calculating the amount of energy leaving the power system at its output or entering the power system at its input. This calculation can be performed for reasons such as: simple energy-based state of charge (SOC) calculations can be performed on the energy storage module within the power system; and / or to detect the possibility of energy entering through the output, which could be dangerous because the internal energy storage module is effectively charged when the power system discharges. The temperature limits for the energy storage module used for charging may differ from those used for discharging. The charging current of the energy unit is controlled by an external power supply that feeds current into the power system, which operates as a voltage source. This current may exceed the maximum permissible charging current of the energy unit.

[0087] Figure 5 A block diagram of circuit 500 is provided, which is configured to control a power delivery system (such as a power supply system, e.g., power supply system 300 of Figure 3 or...). Figure 4 The operation of the power supply system 400). Circuit 500 can be implemented in hardware and / or software. Circuit 500 can be part of the module controller 103 of FIG1, or separate from the module controller 103 of FIG1.

[0088] Circuit 500 includes a signal sampler 502 connected to voltage sensor 598 and another signal sampler 504 connected to current sensor 422. Figure 6 The diagram provides illustrative voltage signals supplied to signal sampler 502 and illustrative current signals supplied to signal sampler 504.

[0089] Signal samplers 502 and 504 include, but are not limited to, analog-to-digital converters and / or optional filters. Optional filters may be included additionally or alternatively with the voltage and current sensors. The analog output of the voltage sensor is referred to as... u ( t The digital output from signal sampler 502 is called... u [ k ]. u ( t This includes measuring the output voltage of the power supply system (e.g., Figure 4 (308-1 or 308-2). The analog output from the current sensor is called... i (t The digital output from the signal sampler 504 is called... i [ k ]. i ( t This includes the measured input or output current of the power system, depending on whether the power system is in charging or discharging operation mode. u [ k ]and i [ k All of these can be written as time series of samples. For example, the digital voltage output of signal sampler 502 can be represented as a sample. u [ k 0 ]、 u [ k 1 ]、…、 u [ k N The time series of the signal sampler 504. The digital current output of the signal sampler 504 can be represented as a sample. i [ k 0 ]、 i [ k 1 ]、…、 i [ k N The time series. N It is an integer.

[0090] Voltage and current samples are passed to combiner 506. Combiner 506 is configured to combine voltage samples associated with a given time and current samples associated with the same given time to form a combined value. p [ k ]. Figure 7 The document provides a graph showing the combined values ​​plotted over time. (Combined values) p [ k This includes active power, reactive power, and deformable power. This scheme involves active power because it is the power that effectively charges and discharges the energy cell 102. p [ k The average value of ] is similar to active power. Therefore, p [ k The moving average calculator 508 further processes the data to obtain an average value similar to active power. a [ k ]. Figure 8 The document provides a graph showing the average value plotted over time.

[0091] The combiner 506 can include, but is not limited to, multipliers. In the multiplier scenario, the combined value...p [ k It can be defined by the following mathematical equation (1).

[0092] p [ k ] = u [ k ] i [ k (1)

[0093] For the time series of voltage and current samples, mathematical equation (1) can be written as follows.

[0094] p [ k 0 ] = u [ k 0 ] i [ k 0 ]

[0095] p [ k 1 ] = u [ k 1 ] i [ k 1 ] ...

[0097] p [ k N ] = u [ k N ] i [ k N ]

[0098] in, p [ k 0 [Indicates from time] t 0 The first power value or product of the voltage and current measurements at that point. p [ k 1 [Indicates from time] t 1 The second power value or product of the voltage measurement and the current measurement at the point, and p [ kN [Indicates from time] t N The third power value or product is the voltage measurement and the current measurement at the point.

[0099] Combination value p [ k The result is passed to the moving average operator 508. The moving average operator is typically configured to calculate the average combination of values ​​over a specified time period or a sliding sampling window of a defined size. The moving average operator 508 may include, but is not limited to, a finite impulse response (FIR) filter or other moving average filters.

[0100] An FIR filter can be configured to have the same value for all coefficients, thus the FIR filter acts as a filter for combining values. p [ k A moving average filter that performs low-pass filtering. The FIR filter can also be configured with a selectable number of taps. N taps This eliminates the 100 Hz or 120 Hz fundamental and harmonic frequencies. Multiplying a 50 Hz sinusoidal voltage waveform by a 50 Hz sinusoidal current waveform yields a sinusoidal 100 Hz power waveform. The idea is to choose the number of taps related to the sampling frequency, such that the comb notch is 100, 200, 300… or 120, 240, 360… Hz. For example, an FIR filter might have 100 taps for 50 Hz at a 10 kHz execution rate, or 83 taps for 50 Hz at a 10 kHz execution rate. This approach is not limited to the details of this example. FIR filters can have any number of taps chosen depending on the given application. FIR filters are also configured to use the current combined values. p [ k ] current Combined with previous values p [ k ] previous To calculate a [ k ]. a [ k ] can be defined by the following mathematical equation (2) written in discrete-time notation.

[0101] (2)

[0102] In digital systems, this can be achieved by... N taps -1 combined value is stored in data storage 520 to efficiently implement the FIR filter. Each time it is executed, the FIR filter starts from the latest combined value. p [ kSubtract the oldest combination value from the middle. p [ k- ( N taps -1)] to obtain the difference d k Then the difference d k Compared with the previous average a Add [k-1] together. The latest combination value. p [ k It is stored in data storage 520 for use as an average. a The next calculation of [k+1], and the oldest combination value. p [ k- ( N taps -1)] is discarded or otherwise no longer stored in data storage 520. Therefore, mathematical equation (2) can be rewritten as mathematical equation (3).

[0103] a [ k ] = a [ k – 1] + ( p [ k ] - p [ k-(N taps -1)])(1 / N taps ) = a [ k – 1] + d k (1 / N taps (3)

[0104] Use 1 / N taps Normalization is optional. It should be noted that in some scenarios, mathematical equation (3) can be replaced by mathematical equation (4).

[0105] a [ k ] = a [ k – 1] + ( p [ k ] - p [ k-(N taps -1)]) = a [ k – 1] + d k (4)

[0106] As mentioned above, an FIR filter can be configured to have one hundred taps, i.e. N taps =100. In this case, mathematical equations (2)-(4) can be rewritten as follows.

[0107]

[0108] a [ k ] = a [ k – 1] + ( p [ k ] - p [ k-99 (1 / 100)

[0109] a [ k ] = a [ k – 1] + ( p [ k ] - p [ k-99 ])

[0110] This solution is not limited to the details of this scenario.

[0111] like Figure 5 As shown, the average value a [ k The data is passed from the moving average arithmetic unit to integrator 510 and sign detector 512. Integrator 510 is configured to process the input over an undefined time period. a [ k Integrate to produce a representative output. W [ k ]. W [ k ]express a [ k Time integral. W [ k This can be used, for example, to calculate the State of Charge (SOC) of (multiple) energy storage modules (e.g., energy storage module 100 of Figure 1). The SOC can then be used to turn on the switch and / or change the operating mode of the power system.

[0112] Symbol detector 512 is used for average value-based a [ k Symbol generation signal S . a [ kThe symbol [] indicates whether the energy unit is charging / discharging. A positive sign indicates that the energy unit is charging, while a negative sign indicates that the energy unit is discharging. Alternatively, a negative sign indicates that the energy unit is charging, while a positive sign indicates that the energy unit is discharging. When a [ k When the symbol indicates that the power system is not in the user-defined discharge operation mode, the symbol detector 512 generates and outputs a signal. S .

[0113] Can provide signal S This is to (i) prevent energy from flowing to the output of the power system, and (ii) prevent energy from flowing to the energy unit of (multiple) energy storage modules. These features can provide a means of obtaining a rapid shutdown response from the power system in situations such as a balcony power plant connected to a power system. Feature (i) can be achieved by using signals S To enable the switch at the output of the power supply system (e.g., Figure 4 This is achieved by switching (408-1 or 408-2) from a closed state to an open state. Actuation of these switches causes the output power of the power supply system to be "turned off". Feature (ii) can be achieved by using a signal. S This is achieved by selectively interrupting the circuit (e.g., selective circuit interruption 134 in Figure 1) to "shut down" all energy storage modules. When a [ k The symbol ] indicates that when the energy storage module of the power system is effectively discharged, the above process is repeated using the next voltage and current sample of the time series of the sample.

[0114] The sign detector 512 may include, but is not limited to, a transfer function operator 514, a low-pass filter 516, and a threshold comparator 518. When a negative sign indicates that the energy unit is charging, the transfer function operator 514 is configured to replace all positive average values ​​with zeros. The low-pass filter 516 is configured to pass the filtered negative average value to the threshold comparator 518. Each filtered negative average value is compared to a threshold. When the filtered negative average value is lower than the threshold, a signal is generated. S For example, the threshold hold value is chosen to be 10 or -10. Therefore, a signal is generated when the value of the filtered negative average (unsigned) is greater than 10 or equal to or less than -10. S This solution is not limited to the details of this example.

[0115] Figure 9 A flowchart of an illustrative method 900 for operating the circuit is provided. The circuit may include, but is not limited to, a power supply system (e.g., power supply system 300 of Figure 3 or...). Figure 4400), controller (e.g., module controller 103 of Figure 1) and / or other circuitry (e.g., Figure 5 (Circuit 500). Method 900 begins at 902 and continues to 904, wherein the circuit obtains a time series of voltage measurements at the circuit output or input and a time series of current measurements at the circuit output or input. Next, in 906, the circuit performs an operation to combine the voltage and current measurements separately to obtain multiple power values.

[0116] The circuit uses power values ​​to calculate the average power over a sliding sampling window, as shown in 908. This calculation may involve: calculating the difference between the latest power value and the oldest power value in the sliding sampling window, and adding this difference to a previous value of the average power. The calculation may also involve: calculating a first average power using a first subset of the power values ​​at a first time point; and calculating a second average power using a different second subset of the power values ​​at a second time point. An FIR filter can be used to calculate the average power. The FIR filter can have the same values ​​for all coefficients, can be configured to have multiple taps such that the fundamental frequency and harmonic frequencies of the power signal are eliminated, and can be configured to use both the current power value and the previous power value to calculate the average.

[0117] Box 910 relates to selectively controlling (multiple) electronic components (e.g., based on the sign and value of average power). Figure 4 The operation of (multiple) switches 408-1 and / or 408-2 and / or the selective circuit interruption 134 of Figure 1. The output can be connected to an energy consumer. In this case, block 910 may involve using (multiple) electronic components to prevent energy from flowing from the energy consumer to the output. The (multiple) electronic components may include, but are not limited to, (multiple) switches and (multiple) selective circuit interruptions. Block 910 may additionally or alternatively involve: determining whether the power system is in a user-defined discharge mode based on the sign of an average value; and transitioning the electronic components from (multiple) closed states to (multiple) open states. For example, the state of the electronic components may be transitioned when (i) the sign of the average value indicates that the power system is not in a user-defined discharge operating mode and (ii) the value of the average value exceeds a threshold.

[0118] In the next block 912, (multiple) electronic components are used to (i) prevent current from flowing to the output of the circuit and / or (ii) prevent current from flowing to the energy unit.

[0119] In box 914, an operation is performed to accumulate the value of the average power over a defined time period. The accumulated result can be used in box 916 to calculate the state of charge of at least one of the energy cells. Subsequently, method 900 continues to box 918, where method 900 terminates or performs other operations. Other operations may include, but are not limited to, returning to box 902.

[0120] Although this solution has been shown and described with respect to one or more embodiments, equivalent changes and modifications will occur to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding this specification and the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, while a particular feature of this solution may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several embodiments, such features may be combined with one or more other features of other embodiments, as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application. Therefore, the breadth and scope of this solution should not be limited by any of the foregoing scenarios. Rather, the scope of this solution should be defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0121] Without excluding further possible embodiments, certain example embodiments are summarized in the following terms: Clause 1: A method for operating a circuit, comprising: obtaining a time series of voltage measurements of the circuit's output and a time series of current measurements of the circuit's output or input; combining the voltage and current measurements respectively to obtain a plurality of power values; calculating an average power over a sliding sampling window using the plurality of power values; and selectively controlling the operation of at least one electronic component of the circuit based on the sign and value of the average power.

[0122] Clause 2: The method according to Clause 1, wherein the output is connected to an energy consumer and / or an energy generator, and wherein the method further includes using at least one electronic component to prevent energy from flowing from the energy consumer to the output.

[0123] Item 3: The method according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the circuit includes a power supply, and at least one electronic component includes a switch or selective circuit interruption, and wherein the method further includes using at least one electronic component to simultaneously (i) prevent current from flowing to the output of the power supply and (ii) prevent current from flowing to the energy unit.

[0124] Clause 3A: The method according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the circuit includes a power supply system, and at least one electronic component includes (a) a switch configured to connect or disconnect the output of the power supply to or from one or more energy storage modules, or (b) a selective circuit interruption configured to shut down one of the energy storage modules, and wherein the method further includes an energy unit using at least one electronic component to simultaneously (i) prevent energy from flowing to the output of the power supply system and (ii) prevent energy from flowing to the energy storage modules.

[0125] Item 4: The method according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the circuit includes a power supply, and at least one electronic component includes a switch or selective circuit interruption.

[0126] Clause 4A: The method according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the circuit includes a power delivery system (e.g., a power supply system), and at least one electronic component includes a switch configured to turn off the output power of the power supply or a selective circuit interruption configured to turn off the energy storage module of the power supply.

[0127] Clause 5: The method according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein selectively controlling the operation of at least one electronic component includes changing a switch or selective circuit interruption from a closed state to an open state.

[0128] Clause 6: The method according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein calculating the average power comprises: calculating a first average power using a first subset of a plurality of power values ​​at a first time; and calculating a second average power using a different second subset of a plurality of power values ​​at a second time.

[0129] Clause 7: The method according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the average power is calculated using a finite impulse response filter.

[0130] Clause 8: The method according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein calculating the average power includes calculating the difference between the latest power value among a plurality of power values ​​in the sliding sampling window and the oldest power value among a plurality of power values ​​in the sliding sampling window, and adding the difference to a previous value of the average power.

[0131] Clause 9: The method according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein selectively controlling the operation of at least one electronic component includes verifying that the user is using the device in a manner desired by the user and / or determining whether the circuit is in a user-set discharge operation mode based on the sign of the average value.

[0132] Clause 10: The method according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein selectively controlling the operation of at least one electronic component includes changing at least one electronic component from a closed state to an open state when (i) the sign indicator circuit of the average value is not in a user-set discharge operation mode and (ii) the value of the average value exceeds a threshold.

[0133] Clause 11: The method described under any of the preceding clauses further includes accumulating the value of the average power over a defined time period and using the accumulated result to calculate the state of charge of at least one energy unit.

[0134] Clause 12: A power supply or power system comprising: at least one electronic component configured to selectively switch between an open state and a closed state; and circuitry configured to perform the following operations: obtaining a time series of voltage measurements of the power supply's output and a time series of current measurements of the power supply's output or input; combining the voltage and current measurements respectively to obtain a plurality of power values; calculating an average power over a sliding sampling window using the plurality of power values; and selectively controlling the operation of the at least one electronic component based on the sign and value of the average power.

[0135] Clause 13: The power supply as described in Clause 12, wherein at least one electronic component includes a switch or selective circuit interruption.

[0136] Clause 14: A power supply according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the operation of at least one electronic component is selectively controlled to change a switch or selective circuit interruption from a closed state to an open state.

[0137] Clause 15: A power supply according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the average power is calculated by: calculating a first average power at a first time using a first subset of a plurality of power values; and calculating a second average power at a second time using a different second subset of a plurality of power values.

[0138] Clause 16: A power supply according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the circuitry includes a finite impulse response filter configured to calculate average power.

[0139] Clause 17: A power supply according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the finite impulse response filter has the same value for all coefficients, is configured to have multiple taps such that the fundamental frequency and harmonic frequency of the power signal are canceled out, and is configured to calculate an average value using both the current power value and the previous power value.

[0140] Clause 18: A power source according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the average power or active power is calculated by calculating the difference between the latest power value among a plurality of power values ​​in a sliding sampling window and the oldest power value among a plurality of power values ​​in the sliding sampling window, and adding the difference to a previous value of the average power.

[0141] Clause 19: A power supply pursuant to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the operation of at least one electronic component is based on whether the sign of an average value verifies that the user is using the device in the manner expected by the user and / or indicates that the power supply is not in a user-set discharge operating mode for control.

[0142] Clause 20: A power supply according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein when (i) the sign of the average value indicates that the power supply is not in a user-set discharge operation mode and (ii) the value of the average value exceeds a threshold, the operation of at least one electronic component is controlled to change the operation of at least one electronic component from a closed state to an open state.

[0143] Clause 21: The power supply according to any one of the preceding clauses further includes an integrator configured to integrate the value of the average power over an undefined time period, wherein the output from the integrator is used to calculate the state of charge of at least one energy unit.

[0144] Clause 22: The method according to any one of the preceding method clauses, wherein at least one electronic component is not a switch of an active bridge circuit.

[0145] Clause 23: The method according to any one of the preceding method clauses, wherein each energy storage module in the energy storage module includes an active bridge circuit.

[0146] Clause 24: The method according to any one of Clauses 22-23, wherein the active bridge circuit is a transistor active bridge circuit.

[0147] Clause 25: The method according to any one of Clauses 22-24, wherein the active bridge circuit is part of the inverter circuit.

[0148] Clause 26: The method of any one of Clauses 22-25, wherein the active bridge circuit (e.g., a transistor active bridge circuit) is a half-H bridge circuit.

[0149] Clause 27: The method according to any one of Clauses 22-25, wherein the active bridge circuit (e.g., a transistor active bridge circuit) is a full H-bridge circuit.

[0150] Clause 28: A system (e.g., circuit, power supply, or arrangement) includes components for performing the steps of any of the preceding method clauses.

[0151] Clause 29: A software product comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more suitable processors (e.g., a processor of a power supply system), cause any processor to perform the steps of any of the above method clauses.

[0152] Clause 30: A software product comprising instructions which, when executed by a system comprising suitable components, cause the system to perform any of the steps in the preceding method clauses.

[0153] The breadth and scope of this disclosure should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined solely by the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A method for operating a circuit, comprising: Obtain the time series of voltage measurements at the output of the circuit and the time series of current measurements at the output of the circuit; The voltage measurement and the current measurement are combined respectively to obtain multiple power values; The average power over the sliding sampling window is calculated using the multiple power values; as well as The operation of at least one electronic component of the circuit is selectively controlled based on the sign and value of the average power.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the output is connected to an energy consumer, and wherein the method further comprises using the at least one electronic component to prevent current from flowing from the energy consumer to the output.

3. The method of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the circuit includes a power supply, and the at least one electronic component includes a switch or selective circuit interruption, and wherein the method further includes using the at least one electronic component to simultaneously (i) prevent current from flowing to the output of the power supply, and (ii) prevent current from flowing to the energy unit.

4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The circuit includes a power supply, and the at least one electronic component includes a switch or selective circuit interruption.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein, Selectively controlling the operation of the at least one electronic component includes causing the switch or selective circuit to switch from a closed state to an open state.

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The calculation of the average power includes: A first average power is calculated using a first subset of the plurality of power values ​​at a first time; and The second average power is calculated using a different second subset of the multiple power values ​​at a second time.

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The average power is calculated using a finite impulse response filter.

8. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The calculation of the average power includes: calculating the difference between the latest power value among the plurality of power values ​​in the sliding sampling window and the oldest power value among the plurality of power values ​​in the sliding sampling window, and adding the difference to a previous value of the average power.

9. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Selectively controlling the operation of at least one electronic component includes verifying that the user is using the device in the manner the user expects.

10. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Selectively controlling the operation of at least one electronic component includes: when (i) the sign of the average value indicates that the circuit is not in the user-set discharge operation mode and (ii) the value of the average value exceeds a threshold, causing the at least one electronic component to switch from a closed state to an open state.

11. The method according to any one of the preceding claims further comprises accumulating the value of the average power over a defined time period and using the result from the accumulation to calculate the state of charge of at least one of the energy units.

12. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least one electronic component is not a switch of an active bridge circuit, or each energy storage module in the energy storage module includes an active bridge circuit.

13. A power source, comprising: At least one electronic component, the at least one electronic component being configured to selectively switch between an open state and a closed state; as well as The circuit is configured to perform the following operations: Obtain the time series of voltage measurements at the output of the power supply and the time series of current measurements at the output of the power supply; The voltage measurement and the current measurement are combined respectively to obtain multiple power values; The average power over the sliding sampling window is calculated using the multiple power values; as well as The operation of at least one electronic component is selectively controlled based on the sign and value of the average power.

14. A system comprising components for performing the steps of any one of the preceding method claims.

15. A software product comprising instructions that, when executed by a system including suitable components, cause the system to perform the steps of any one of the preceding method claims.

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