Multiphase module-based energy system framework and related methods

Abstract

The enclosure and / or mounting framework for a modular multilevel energy system includes a set of similar cabinets configured for orthogonal alignment of modules. The cabinets are configured so that modules of a particular phase are oriented along an axis parallel to a reference plane. Modules of the same level but different phases of the multilevel arrangement are mounted within each cabinet and positioned so that the modules for each phase are at a defined distance from the reference plane. The cabinets are positioned equidistant and orthogonal to the reference plane, minimizing the distance for connections between modules of the same phase across multiple cabinets and facilitating convenient addition or removal of levels. The framework also facilitates data and reference signal connections between the modules' local control devices and between the local control devices and a master control device for the system.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (Cross-reference of related applications) This application, in its entirety, claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 084,110, filed on 28 September 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference for any purpose.

[0002] (Technical field) The subject matter described herein generally concerns multiphase module-based energy system frameworks, and systems, devices, and methods for facilitating the installation and interconnection of multiphase module-based energy systems. [Background technology]

[0003] Energy systems with multiple energy sources or sinks are used in many industries. These multiple energy sources may include batteries or other energy storage devices. Conventional systems are not well-suited for high-power stationary installations, such as industrial and other applications. While new modular energy systems can be adapted for industrial-scale power in stationary or large-scale marine applications, systems, apparatus, and methods for the installation and interconnection of these new energy systems do not exist or are not optimized for the requirements.

[0004] For these and other reasons, new and improved systems, devices, and methods are needed for the installation and interconnection of multiphase module-based energy systems. [Overview of the project] [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] Exemplary embodiments of systems, devices, and methods for a multiphase module-based energy system framework useful for the installation, interconnection, and adaptation of energy systems for various applications are provided herein. In many of these embodiments, the module-based energy system comprises a plurality of modules, each module comprising at least an energy source and a converter. More complex configurations of each module are also disclosed. The modules of the system can be connected together in different arrangements of varying complexity to perform functions specific to the particular technical application to which the system is applied. The system can be configured to repeatedly monitor status information, at least one operating characteristic, or other parameter of each module during the use of the system, assess the state of each module based on the monitored status information, operating characteristics, or other parameters, and to control each module independently in an attempt to achieve and / or maintain one or more desired targets such as electrical performance, thermal performance, lifespan, and others. This control can be performed to facilitate energy supply (e.g., discharge) and / or energy consumption (e.g., charge) from the system. For convenience, certain features are summarized below.

[0006] The energy sources of a modular multiphase energy system may include, for example, high-energy-density (HED) capacitors (such as ultracapacitors or supercapacitors), batteries, and / or fuel cells. The system may include at least two converter-source modules connected in a one-dimensional or multi-dimensional array. At least two one-dimensional arrays can be connected together, for example, directly in different rows and columns, or by one or more additional modules. In such a configuration, output voltages of any shape and frequency can be generated at the output of the module-based energy system as a superposition of the output voltages of the individual modules.

[0007] The advantages of modular multiphase energy systems may include intraphase and interphase power management within a single module-based energy system (e.g., an industrial-scale battery pack), intersystem power management between multiple module-based energy systems (e.g., battery packs), connection of auxiliary loads to the system, and maintaining a uniform distribution of energy supplied from all modules in such a system to those loads. Further advantages may include enabling control of power sharing between modules. Such control may allow for the adjustment of parameters such that the state of charge (SOC) of the module's energy source is maintained in real time and continuously during cycles and rest periods, thereby promoting the utilization of the full capacity of each energy source despite possible differences in their capacities. In addition, such control can be used to maintain temperature equilibrium of the module's energy source. Temperature equilibrium can increase the power capacity of the system (e.g., a battery pack) and provide a more uniform change over time of the energy source despite differences in their physical location within the system and their thermal resistivity. Modular multiphase energy systems may include multiple levels for each power phase. The levels are also modular, allowing for convenient adjustment of the system capacity after installation by adding or removing levels.

[0008] These and similar modular multiphase energy systems are made more practical by using enclosures and / or mounting frameworks. Useful enclosures and / or mounting frameworks for modular multilevel converter systems are disclosed. In some embodiments, the framework consists of a series of racks or cabinets that enable vertical and horizontal alignment of modules. Modules of a particular phase are oriented horizontally so that all modules of one phase are located at the same or similar height (e.g., the same horizontal plane) from the floor or other base. Phases are stacked on top of each other so that each phase is located at a different but shared height. Modules of different phases in a multilevel arrangement but of the same level can be vertically aligned so that they are located in the same cabinet. This arrangement minimizes the distance over connections between modules of the same phase and allows the number of levels in the system to be easily increased (and conversely, easily reduced) by simply adding another cabinet. The framework also facilitates data and reference signal connections between local control devices and between local control devices and master control devices.

[0009] Other systems, devices, methods, features, and advantages of the subject matter described herein will be apparent, or will become apparent, to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following figures and detailed description. All such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages are included in this description, within the scope of the subject matter described herein, and are intended to be protected by the accompanying claims. Features of exemplary embodiments should not be construed as limiting the accompanying claims in any way unless those features are explicitly described in the claims. This specification also provides, for example, the following: (Item 1) A framework for a multiphase energy system, wherein the framework is The system comprises multiple modules arranged in multiple cabinets, each module comprising an energy source configured to output a DC voltage (DC), a converter coupled to the energy source, and a local control device, the local control device being configured to control the converter to output a module voltage selected from the group comprising +DC, zero volts, and -DC. The aforementioned modules are connected as a plurality of arrays such that each array outputs an AC signal having a different phase angle, and the modules within each array are connected as levels of the array such that the AC signal output by the array is a superposition of the output voltages from each module in the array. Each cabinet holds the modules belonging to at least one of the same levels of the different arrays stacked along an axis perpendicular to a reference plane, thereby aligning the modules of the at least one of the same levels along the axis. A framework in which, with respect to at least two adjacent levels of the array, modules are stacked in the order of the array such that modules of the same array are aligned parallel to the reference plane at the same common distance from the reference plane. (Item 2) The framework described in item 1, wherein each of the aforementioned modules comprises submodules. (Item 3) The aforementioned submodules are stored separately from each other, according to the framework described in item 3. (Item 4) The framework according to item 3, wherein each of the modules comprises the energy source housed in a first submodule and the converter and local control device housed in a second submodule. (Item 5) The framework described in item 1, wherein the axis is a vertical axis and the reference plane is horizontal. (Item 6) The energy source comprises a battery module, a high-energy-density (HED) capacitor, or a fuel cell, as described in item 1. (Item 7) The framework according to item 1, wherein the local control device comprises a processor and memory, the memory comprising instructions, which, when executed by the processor, cause the local control device to manage the power transfer between the energy source and the cumulative load of the module. (Item 8) The framework according to item 1, further comprising a master control device that is communicatively coupled to the local control devices of the plurality of modules. (Item 9) The framework according to item 7, wherein the master control device comprises a processor and a memory communicably coupled to the processor, the memory comprising instructions, which, when executed by the processor, cause the master control device to coordinate the control activities of the energy system using each of the local control devices of the module. (Item 10) The framework according to item 7, wherein the master control device is configured to determine the energy contribution to the output for each of the plurality of modules such that at least one of the state of charge (SOC) and temperature of the energy source is in equilibrium across the plurality of modules. (Item 11) The aforementioned energy system is configured for operation as a stationary energy system, according to the framework described in item 1. (Item 12) The aforementioned stationary energy system is one of the following frameworks described in Item 10: residential storage systems, industrial storage systems, commercial storage systems, government storage systems, systems that convert solar thermal power, wind power, geothermal energy, fossil fuels, or nuclear reactions into electricity for storage, data center storage systems, grids, microgrids, or charging stations. (Item 13) The aforementioned energy system is configured to supply three-phase power, as described in item 1. (Item 14) The aforementioned module comprises N levels, each connected in series, as described in item 1. (Item 15) The cabinet arrangement is the framework described in item 1, comprising the cabinets arranged in a single row having outputs coupled to one or more loads or power grids. (Item 16) The framework described in item 1, wherein the multiphase energy system is configured to output multiphase power to one or more loads or power grids. (Item 17) The framework described in item 15, wherein the multiphase energy system is configured to receive multiphase power from the power grid. (Item 18) The framework according to item 16, further comprising an interface network inserted between the system output of the energy system and one or more of the loads or the power grid. (Item 19) The framework according to item 1, further comprising end cabinets at the ends of the cabinet arrangement, the end cabinets comprising one or more interconnection modules configured to exchange energy between arrays. (Item 20) The end cabinet comprises interconnection modules for each phase, as described in item 18. (Item 21) The framework described in item 1, wherein the plurality of cabinets are configured such that no two cabinets hold modules from the same level of the energy system. (Item 22) The framework according to item 1, wherein the first cabinet among the plurality of cabinets holds a first module at the first level of the first array among the plurality of arrays, a second module at the first level of the second array among the plurality of arrays, and a third module at the first level of the third array among the plurality of arrays. (Item 23) The framework described in item 22, wherein the first cabinet further holds a first module at the Nth level of the first array among the plurality of arrays, a fifth module at the Nth level of the second array among the plurality of arrays, and a sixth module at the Nth level of the third array among the plurality of arrays. (Item 24) A method for assembling an energy system comprising modules arranged at different levels, wherein different modules at each level serve different phases of the system. In each set of cabinets, modules are aligned along an axis perpendicular to a reference plane, and modules belonging to different levels of the energy system are assembled along the axis perpendicular to the reference plane such that the modules for each phase are located at a distance from the reference plane defined for the modules of that phase. The set of cabinets is arranged such that each is adjacent to another and equidistant from the reference plane. Methods that include... [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] Details of the subject matter described herein, both in terms of its structure and operation, may be evident from the accompanying diagrams, where similar reference numbers point to similar parts. Components in the diagrams are not necessarily to scale, but rather the emphasis is on illustrating the principles of the subject matter. Furthermore, all illustrations are intended to convey concepts where relative size, shape, and other detailed attributes can be illustrated graphically, rather than literally or precisely.

[0011] [Figure 1-1] Figure 1A-1C is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a modular energy system. [Figure 1-2] Figure 1A-1C is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a modular energy system.

[0012] [Figure 1-3] Figure 1D-1E is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a control device for an energy system.

[0013] [Figure 1-4] Figure 1F-1G is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a modular energy system coupled with loads and charge sources.

[0014] [Figure 2A] Figures 2A-2B are block diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of modules and control systems within an energy system. [Figure 2B] Figures 2A-2B are block diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of modules and control systems within an energy system.

[0015] [Figure 2C] Figure 2C is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the physical configuration of the module.

[0016] [Figure 2D] Figure 2D is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the physical configuration of a modular energy system.

[0017] [Figure 3-1] Figures 3A-3C are block diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of modules having various electrical configurations. [Figure 3-2] Figures 3A-3C are block diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of modules having various electrical configurations.

[0018] [Figure 4] Figures 4A-4F are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of the energy source.

[0019] [Figure 5] Figures 5A-5C are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of the energy buffer.

[0020] [Figure 6-1] Figures 6A-6C are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of the converter. [Figure 6-2] Figures 6A-6C are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of the converter.

[0021] [Figure 7-1]Figures 7A-7E are block diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of modular energy systems with various topologies. [Figure 7-2] Figures 7A-7E are block diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of modular energy systems with various topologies.

[0022] [Figure 8A] Figure 8A is a plot illustrating the exemplary output voltage of the module.

[0023] [Figure 8B] Figure 8B is a plot illustrating the exemplary multilevel output voltage of the module array.

[0024] [Figure 8C] Figure 8C is a plot illustrating exemplary reference and carrier signals usable in pulse width modulation control techniques.

[0025] [Figure 8D] Figure 8D is a plot illustrating exemplary reference and carrier signals usable in pulse width modulation control techniques.

[0026] [Figure 8E] Figure 8E is a plot illustrating an exemplary switch signal generated according to pulse width modulation control techniques.

[0027] [Figure 8F] Figure 8F is a plot illustrating exemplary multilevel output voltages generated by superimposing output voltages from a module array under pulse width modulation control techniques.

[0028] [Figure 9] Figures 9A-9B are block diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of a controller for a modular energy system.

[0029] [Figure 10A] Figure 10A is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a multiphase modular energy system having interconnection modules.

[0030] [Figure 10B] Figure 10B is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the interconnection module in the multiphase embodiment of Figure 10A.

[0031] [Figure 10C] Figure 10C is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a modular energy system having two subsystems connected together by an interconnection module.

[0032] [Figure 10D] Figure 10D is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a three-phase modular energy system having interconnection modules that supply auxiliary loads.

[0033] [Figure 10E] Figure 10E is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the interconnection module in the multiphase embodiment shown in Figure 10D.

[0034] [Figure 11A] Figures 11A-11B are block diagrams illustrating communication and power paths in an exemplary embodiment of a multiphase module-based energy system framework. [Figure 11B] Figures 11A-11B are block diagrams illustrating communication and power paths in an exemplary embodiment of a multiphase module-based energy system framework.

[0035] [Figure 12A] Figure 12A is a block diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of the enclosure framework corresponding to the geometric arrangement shown in Figures 11A and 11B.

[0036] [Figure 12B]Figures 12B and 12C illustrate exemplary embodiments of an electronic rack for use in a rack-based installation. [Figure 12C] Figures 12B and 12C illustrate exemplary embodiments of an electronic rack for use in a rack-based installation.

[0037] [Figure 12D] Figure 12D is an elevation view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of rack-based mounting consistent with the previously mentioned figures.

[0038] [Figure 13A] Figures 13A-13B are block diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of the phase and module-based arrangement of modules and connections in a multiphase module-based energy system framework. [Figure 13B] Figures 13A-13B are block diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of the phase and module-based arrangement of modules and connections in a multiphase module-based energy system framework.

[0039] [Figure 14] Figures 14A, 14B, and 14C are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of modules in a multiphase module-based energy system framework.

[0040] [Figure 15A] Figures 15A, 15B, and 15C are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of a multilevel converter system with various configurations of an additional cabinet (cabinet 0) and a last (N+1th) cabinet between a first cabinet containing the interface network and the grid and / or load. [Figure 15B]Figures 15A, 15B, and 15C are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of a multilevel converter system with various configurations of an additional cabinet (cabinet 0) and a last (N+1th) cabinet between a first cabinet containing the interface network and the grid and / or load. [Figure 15C] Figures 15A, 15B, and 15C are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of a multilevel converter system with various configurations of an additional cabinet (cabinet 0) and a last (N+1th) cabinet between a first cabinet containing the interface network and the grid and / or load.

[0041] [Figure 15D] Figure 15D is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a multilevel converter system with a cabinet that holds all modules from one or two levels of the system.

[0042] [Figure 16-1] Figures 16A-16G are plan views illustrating exemplary embodiments of various cabinet arrangements in a multiphase module-based energy system framework. [Figure 16-2] Figures 16A-16G are plan views illustrating exemplary embodiments of various cabinet arrangements in a multiphase module-based energy system framework. [Figure 16-3] Figures 16A-16G are plan views illustrating exemplary embodiments of various cabinet arrangements in a multiphase module-based energy system framework.

[0043] [Figure 17] Figures 17A-17C are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of the grid, load, and their respective interface networks.

[0044] [Figure 18]Figure 18 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary embodiment of how to construct a framework for a multiphase, multilevel, modular energy system. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0045] Before the subject matter is described in detail, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described and is therefore naturally subject to change. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing only specific embodiments and is not intended to be limiting, as the scope of this disclosure will be limited only by the appended claims.

[0046] Exemplary embodiments of a multiphase module-based energy system framework are described herein as exemplary embodiments of devices, networks, software, and components within such a framework, exemplary embodiments of methods for operating and using such a framework, and exemplary embodiments of applications (e.g., devices, machines, grids, locations, structures, environments, etc.) in which such a framework may be implemented or incorporated, or in which such a system may be used together. The framework allows for rapid customization to add or subtract the number of modules present in a multilevel modular converter system for providing multiphase power to a load.

[0047] Before describing exemplary embodiments, it is useful to first describe in more detail the underlying systems. Referring to Figure 1A-10E, the following sections describe various applications in which embodiments of modular energy systems may be implemented, embodiments of control systems or devices for modular energy systems, configurations of modular energy system embodiments relating to charge sources and loads, embodiments of individual modules, embodiments of topologies for the arrangement of modules in the system, embodiments of control methodologies, embodiments of balanced operating characteristics of modules in the system, and embodiments of the use of interconnected modules. (Examples of uses)

[0048] Stationary applications are those in which modular energy systems are located in a fixed location while in use but can be moved to an alternative location when not in use. Modular energy systems, while permanently stationed at their installation site, provide electrical energy for consumption by one or more other entities, or store or buffer energy for later consumption. Examples of stationary applications in which embodiments disclosed herein may be used include, but are not limited to,: energy systems for use by or within one or more residential structures or locations; energy systems for use by or within one or more industrial structures or locations; energy systems for use by or within one or more commercial structures or locations; energy systems for use by or within one or more government structures or locations (including both military and non-military uses); energy systems for charging mobile applications as described below (e.g., charging sources or charging stations); and systems that convert solar thermal power, wind power, geothermal energy, fossil fuels, or nuclear reactions into electricity for storage. Stationary applications often supply loads such as grids and microgrids, motors, and data centers. Stationary energy systems can be used in either storage or non-storage roles.

[0049] Mobility applications, sometimes also referred to as towing applications, generally involve a modular energy system located on or within an entity that stores and provides electrical energy for conversion into motor-driven power, thereby moving or assisting in the movement of that entity. Examples of mobile entities in which the embodiments disclosed herein may be used include, but are not limited to, electric and / or hybrid entities that move on land or underground, at sea or in the ocean, above land or sea without contact with it (e.g., flying or hovering in the air), or through outer space. Examples of mobile entities in which the embodiments disclosed herein may be used include, but are not limited to, vehicles, trains, trams, ships, vessels, aircraft, and spacecraft. Examples of mobile vehicles in which the embodiments disclosed herein may be used include, but are not limited to, those having only one wheel or track, those having only two wheels or tracks, those having only three wheels or tracks, those having only four wheels or tracks, and those having five or more wheels or tracks. Examples of mobile entities in which the embodiments disclosed herein may be used together include, but are not limited to, automobiles, buses, trucks, motorcycles, scooters, industrial vehicles, mining vehicles, aircraft (e.g., airplanes, helicopters, drones, etc.), vessels (e.g., commercial transport ships, ships, yachts, boats, or other watercraft), submarines, locomotives or rail-based vehicles (e.g., trains, trams, etc.), military vehicles, spacecraft, and satellites.

[0050] In describing embodiments of this specification, specific stationary applications (e.g., grids, microgrids, data centers, cloud computing environments) or mobile applications (e.g., electric vehicles) may be referenced. Such references are made for the sake of clarity and do not imply that a particular embodiment is limited to that specific mobile or stationary application for use only. Embodiments of systems that provide power to a motor can be used in both mobile and stationary applications. While some configurations may be more suitable for certain applications than others, all exemplary embodiments disclosed herein are usable in both mobile and stationary applications unless otherwise described. (Example of a modular energy system)

[0051] Figure 1A is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a module-based energy system 100, where the system 100 includes a control system 102 that is communicatively coupled to N converter source modules 108-1 to 108-N, each via a communication path or links 106-1 to 106-N. Each module 108 is configured to store energy and, if necessary, output energy to a load 101 (or other module 108). In these embodiments, any number of two or more modules 108 can be used (e.g., N is 2 or more). The modules 108 can be connected to each other in various ways, as will be described in more detail with respect to Figures 7A-7E. For ease of illustration, in Figures 1A-1C, the modules 108 are shown connected in series or as a one-dimensional array, with the Nth module coupled to the load 101.

[0052] System 100 is configured to supply power to a load 101. The load 101 may be any type of load, such as a motor or a grid. System 100 is also configured to store power received from a power source. Figure 1F is a block diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of System 100 with a power input interface 151 for receiving power from a power source 150 and a power output interface for outputting power to the load 101. In this embodiment, System 100 can output power via interface 152 and simultaneously receive and store power via interface 151. Figure 1G is a block diagram depicting another exemplary embodiment of System 100 with a switchable interface 154. In this embodiment, System 100 can choose between receiving power from the power source 150 and outputting power to the load 101, or can be commanded to choose between the two. The system 100 can be configured to supply power to multiple loads 101, including both primary and auxiliary loads, and / or to receive power from multiple charging sources 150 (e.g., a public power grid and local renewable energy sources (e.g., solar thermal)).

[0053] Figure 1B depicts another exemplary embodiment of system 100. Here, the control system 102 is implemented as a master control device (MCD) 112, each communicatively coupled to N different local control devices (LCDs) 114-1 to 114-N via communication paths or links 115-1 to 115-N. Each LCD 114-1 to 114-N is communicatively coupled to one module 108-1 to 108-N via communication paths or links 116-1 to 116-N, such that a one-to-one relationship exists between the LCD 114 and module 108.

[0054] Figure 1C depicts another exemplary embodiment of system 100. Here, each MCD112 is communicably coupled to M different LCDs 114-1 to 114-M via a communication path or links 115-1 to 115-M. Each LCD 114 can be coupled to and controlled by two or more modules 108. In the example shown here, each LCD 114 is communicably coupled to two modules 108 such that M LCDs 114-1 to 114-M are each coupled to 2M modules 108-1 to 108-2M via a communication path or links 116-1 to 116-2M.

[0055] The control system 102 can be configured as a single device for the entire system 100 (e.g., Figure 1A), distributed across multiple devices, or implemented as multiple devices (e.g., Figures 1B-1C). In some embodiments, the control system 102 can be distributed among the LCDs 114 associated with module 108, thereby allowing any MCD 112 to be omitted from system 100 if unnecessary.

[0056] The control system 102 can be configured to perform control using software (instructions stored in memory executable by the processing network), hardware, or a combination thereof. Each of one or more devices of the control system 102 may include the processing network 120 and the memory 122, as shown herein. Exemplary implementations of the processing network and memory are described further below.

[0057] The control system 102 may have a communication interface for communicating with external devices 104 of the system 100 via a communication link or path 105. For example, the control system 102 (e.g., MCD112) may output data or information about the system 100 to another control device 104 (e.g., an electronic control unit (ECU) or motor control unit (MCU) of a vehicle in a mobile application, or a grid controller in a stationary application).

[0058] Each of the communication paths or links 105, 106, 115, 116, and 118 (Figure 2B) may be a wired (e.g., electrical, optical) or wireless communication path for communicating data or information bidirectionally, in parallel or series. Data may be communicated in a standardized (e.g., IEEE, ANSI) or custom (e.g., proprietary) format. In automotive applications, communication path 115 may be configured to communicate according to the FlexRay or CAN protocol. Communication paths 106, 115, 116, and 118 also provide wired power and can directly supply operating power for the system 102 from one or more modules 108. For example, the operating power for each LCD 114 may be supplied by only one or more modules 108 to which that LCD 114 is connected, while the operating power for the MCD 112 may be supplied indirectly from one or more of the modules 108 (e.g., through the automotive power network).

[0059] The control system 102 is configured to control one or more modules 108 based on status information received from one or more of the same or different modules 108. Control may also be based on one or more other factors, such as the requirements of the load 101. Controllable aspects include, but are not limited to, one or more of the voltage, current, phase, and / or output power of each module 108.

[0060] Status information for all modules 108 in system 100 can be communicated to control system 102, and system 102 can control all modules 108-1...108-N independently of the status information. Other variations are also possible. For example, a particular module 108 (or part of module 108) can be controlled based on the status information of that particular module 108 (or part of module 108); based on the status information of a different module 108 that is not that particular module 108 (or part of module 108); based on the status information of all modules 108 other than that particular module 108 (or part of module 108); based on the status information of that particular module 108 (or part of module 108) and the status information of at least one other module 108 that is not that particular module 108 (or part of module 108); or based on the status information of all modules 108 in system 100.

[0061] Status information may be information about one or more aspects, characteristics, or parameters of each module 108. The type of status information is not limited to, but may include the following aspects of module 108 or one or more components (e.g., energy sources, energy buffers, converters, monitoring networks): the state of charge (SOC) of one or more energy sources of the module (e.g., the level of charge of the energy source relative to its capacity, such as a fraction or percentage); the state of health (SOH) of one or more energy sources of the module (e.g., the figure of performance of the energy source conditions compared to its ideal conditions); the temperature of one or more energy sources or other components of the module; the capacity of one or more energy sources of the module; the voltage of one or more energy sources and / or other components of the module; the current of one or more energy sources and / or other components of the module; and / or the presence or absence of a fault in any one or more of the components of the module.

[0062] The LCD 114 can be configured to receive status information from each module 108, or to determine status information from monitoring signals or data received from or within each module 108, and to communicate that information to the MCD 112. In some embodiments, each LCD 114 can communicate raw acquired data to the MCD 112, which then algorithmically determines the status information based on that raw data. The MCD 112 can then use the status information of the module 108 to make control decisions as appropriate. The decisions may take the form of instructions, commands, or other information (such as modulation indices as described herein) that can be used by the LCD 114 to either maintain or adjust the operation of each module 108.

[0063] For example, the MCD112 may receive status information, assess that information, and determine differences between at least one module 108 (e.g., its components) and at least one or more other modules 108 (e.g., its comparable components). For example, the MCD112 may determine that a particular module 108 is operating with one of the following conditions compared to one or more other modules 108: relatively low or high SOC, relatively low or high SOH, relatively low or high capacitance, relatively low or high voltage, relatively low or high current, relatively low or high temperature, or with or without a fault. In such an example, the MCD112 may output control information that causes the relevant aspects of that particular module 108 (e.g., output voltage, current, power, temperature) to be reduced or increased (depending on the conditions). In this way, the use of outlier modules 108 (e.g., operating with relatively low SOC or high temperature) can be reduced, causing the relevant parameters (e.g., SOC or temperature) of that module 108 to converge towards those of one or more other modules 108.

[0064] The decision of whether to adjust the operation of a particular module 108 may not necessarily be made by comparing its status information with a predetermined threshold, limit, or condition, but rather by comparing it with the status of other modules 108. The predetermined threshold, limit, or condition may be a static threshold, limit, or condition set by the manufacturer that does not change during use. The predetermined threshold, limit, or condition may be a dynamic threshold, limit, or condition that is made possible to change or changes during use. For example, the MCD 112 may adjust the operation of module 108 if its status information indicates that module 108 is in violation of a predetermined threshold or limit (e.g., above or below it) or is operating outside a predetermined range of acceptable operating conditions. Similarly, the MCD 112 may adjust the operation of module 108 if its status information indicates the presence of an actual or potential fault (e.g., an alarm or warning), or the absence or removal of an actual or potential fault. Examples of failures include, but are not limited to, actual component failures, potential component failures, short circuits or other excessive current conditions, open circuits, excessive voltage conditions, poor communication reception, and reception of corrupted data. Depending on the type and severity of the failure, the use of the faulty module may be reduced to avoid damaging the module, or the use of the module may be stopped entirely.

[0065] The MCD 112 can control the modules 108 in system 100 to achieve or converge toward a desired target. The target may be, for example, that the operation of all modules 108 is at the same or similar level relative to one another, or within a predetermined threshold, limit, or condition. This process is also referred to as equilibrium in the operation or operating characteristics of the modules 108, or the search for equilibrium. The term “equilibrium,” as used herein, is used broadly to convey that it does not require absolute equivalence between modules 108 or their components, but rather that the operation of system 100 may be used to actively reduce any differences in the operation between modules 108 that would otherwise exist.

[0066] The MCD112 can communicate control information to the LCD114 for the purpose of controlling a module 108 associated with the LCD114. The control information may be, for example, a modulation index and reference signal, a modulation reference signal, or something else as described herein. Each LCD114 can use (e.g., receive and process) the control information and generate switch signals that control the operation of one or more components (e.g., a converter) within the associated module 108. In some embodiments, the MCD112 directly generates switch signals and outputs them to the LCD114, which then relays the switch signals to the intended module components.

[0067] All or part of the control system 102 can be combined with an external system control device 104 that controls one or more other aspects of mobile or stationary applications. When integrated within this shared or common control device (or system), control of system 100 can be implemented in any desired manner, such as one or more software applications performed by the processing network of the shared device, the hardware of the shared device, or a combination thereof. Non-inclusive examples of the external control device 104 include: an on-board ECU or MCU with control capabilities for one or more other on-board functions (e.g., motor control, driver interface control, traction force control, etc.); a grid or microgrid controller involved in one or more other power management functions (e.g., load interface, load power requirement prediction, transmission and switching, interface with charge sources (e.g., diesel, solar, wind), charge source power prediction, backup source monitoring, asset dispatch, etc.); and a data center control subsystem (e.g., environmental control, network control, backup control, etc.).

[0068] Figures 1D and 1E are block diagrams depicting exemplary embodiments of a shared or common control device (or system) 132 in which a control system 102 may be implemented. In Figure 1D, the common control device 132 includes a master control device 112 and an external control device 104. The master control device 112 includes an interface 141 for communication with the LCD 114 via a path 115 and an interface 142 for communication with the external control device 104 via an internal communication bus 136. The external control device 104 includes an interface 143 for communication with the master control device 112 via the bus 136 and an interface 144 for communication with other entities for the overall application (e.g., vehicle or grid components) via the communication path 136. In some embodiments, the common control device 132 may be integrated as a common housing or package, and devices 112 and 104 may be implemented as separate integrated circuit (IC) chips or packages contained therein.

[0069] In Figure 1E, the external control device 104 functions as a common control device 132, and the master control functionality is implemented as a component within device 104. This component 112 may be or contain software or other program instructions, stored in the memory of device 104 and / or hardcoded and executed by its processing network. The component may also include dedicated hardware. The component may be a self-contained module or core, and one or more internal hardware and / or software interfaces (e.g., application programming interfaces (APIs)) are for communication with the operating software of the external control device 104. The external control device 104 can manage communication with the LCD 114 via interface 141 and communication with other devices via interface 144. In various embodiments, devices 104 / 132 may be integrated as a single IC chip, integrated in multiple IC chips within a single package, or integrated as multiple semiconductor packages within a common enclosure.

[0070] In the embodiments of Figures 1D and 1E, the master control functionality of system 102 is shared within the common device 132; however, other divisions of the shared control are also possible. For example, a portion of the master control functionality can be distributed between the common device 132 and the dedicated MCD 112. In another example, both the master control functionality and at least a portion of the local control functionality can be implemented within the common device 132 (for example, the remaining local control functionality is implemented within the LCD 114). In some embodiments, the entire control system 102 is implemented within the common device (or system) 132. In some embodiments, the local control functionality is implemented within a device shared with other components of each module 108, such as a battery management system (BMS). (Example of a module in a cascade energy system)

[0071] Module 108 may include one or more energy sources, a power electronics converter, and, optionally, an energy buffer. Figures 2A-2B are block diagrams depicting an additional exemplary embodiment of system 100 with module 108 having a power converter 202, an energy buffer 204, and an energy source 206. The converter 202 may be a voltage converter or a current converter. Embodiments are described herein with reference to a voltage converter, but embodiments are not limited thereto. The converter 202 may be configured to convert a direct current (DC) signal from the energy source 204 into an alternating current (AC) signal and output it via a power connection 110 (e.g., an inverter). The converter 202 may also receive an AC or DC signal via the connection 110 and apply it to the energy source 204 with either polarity in a sustained or pulsed form. The converter 202 may be or include an arrangement of switches (e.g., power transistors), such as a half-bridge or full-bridge (H-bridge). In some embodiments, the converter 202 includes only a switch, and the converter (and the module as a whole) does not include a transformer.

[0072] The converter 202 may also be configured to perform AC / DC conversion (e.g., a rectifier), DC / DC conversion, and / or AC / AC conversion (e.g., in combination with an AC / DC converter), such as for charging a DC energy source from an AC source. In some embodiments, such as for performing AC / AC conversion, the converter 202 may include a transformer, either alone or in combination with one or more power semiconductors (e.g., switches, diodes, thyristors, etc.). In other embodiments, such as those where weight and cost are important factors, the converter 202 may be configured to perform the conversion without a transformer, using only a power switch, power diode, or other semiconductor device.

[0073] The energy source 206 is preferably a robust energy storage device capable of outputting DC and having an energy density suitable for energy storage applications for electric devices. The fuel cell may be a single fuel cell, multiple fuel cells connected in series or parallel, or a fuel cell module. Two or more energy sources may be included within each module, and the two or more sources may include two batteries of the same or different types, two capacitors of the same or different types, two fuel cells of the same or different types, one or more batteries combined with one or more capacitors and / or fuel cells, and one or more capacitors combined with one or more fuel cells.

[0074] The energy source 206 may be an electrochemical battery, such as a single battery, or multiple battery cells connected together in a battery module or array, or any combination thereof. Figures 4A–4D are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of the energy source 206, which are configured as a single battery cell 402 (Figure 4A), a battery module with four batteries 402 connected in series (Figure 4B), a battery module with single batteries 402 connected in parallel (Figure 4C), and a battery module with parallel connections to legs, each having two batteries 402 (Figure 4D). Examples of battery types include solid-state batteries, liquid electrotype-based batteries, liquid-phase batteries, and flow batteries (such as lithium (Li) metal batteries, Li-ion batteries, Li-air batteries, sodium-ion batteries, potassium-ion batteries, magnesium-ion batteries, alkaline batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel sulfate batteries, lead-acid batteries, zinc-air batteries, and others). Some examples of lithium-ion battery types include lithium cobalt oxide (LCO), lithium manganese oxide (LMO), lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC), lithium iron phosphate (LFP), lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (NCA), and lithium titanate (LTO).

[0075] The energy source 206 may also be a high-energy-density (HED) capacitor, such as an ultracapacitor or supercapacitor. In contrast to typical solid-dielectric electrolytic capacitors, HED capacitors can be configured as double-layer capacitors (electrostatic charge storage devices), pseudocapacitors (electrochemical charge storage devices), hybrid capacitors (electrostatic and electrochemical), or others. In addition to higher capacitance, HED capacitors can have an energy density 10 to 100 times (or higher) that of electrolytic capacitors. For example, an HED capacitor can have a specific energy greater than 1.0 watt-hour / kilogram (Wh / kg) and a capacitance greater than 10 to 100 farads (F). Similar to the battery described with respect to Figures 4A-4D, the energy source 206 can be configured as a single HED capacitor or as multiple HED capacitors connected together in an array (e.g., in series, parallel, or a combination thereof).

[0076] Energy source 206 may also be a fuel cell. Examples of fuel cells include proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), phosphoric acid fuel cells (PAFCs), solid acid fuel cells, alkaline fuel cells, high-temperature fuel cells, solid oxide fuel cells, molten electrolyte fuel cells, and others. Similar to the batteries described with respect to Figures 4A-4D, energy source 206 can be configured as a single fuel cell or as multiple fuel cells connected together in an array (e.g., in series, parallel, or a combination thereof). The foregoing examples of batteries, capacitors, and fuel cells are not intended to form an exhaustive list, and those skilled in the art will recognize other variations that fall within the scope of this subject.

[0077] Energy buffer 204 is connected to a DC line or link (for example, +V as described below). DCL and -V DCLThe buffer 204 can attenuate or filter current fluctuations across the source 206, helping to maintain stability in the DC link voltage. These fluctuations may be relatively low (e.g., kilohertz) or high (e.g., megahertz) frequency fluctuations or harmonics caused by switching or other transients of the converter 202. These fluctuations can be absorbed by the buffer 204 instead of being passed through ports IO3 and IO4 of the source 206 or converter 202.

[0078] The power connection 110 is a connection for transferring energy or power to, and through, module 108. Module 108 can output energy from energy source 206 to power connection 110, and the energy can be transferred to other modules or loads in the system. Module 108 can also receive energy from other modules 108 or charging sources (DC charger, single-phase charger, multi-phase charger). Signals can also be routed through module 108, bypassing energy source 206. Routing of energy or power into and out of module 108 is carried out by converter 202 under the control of LCD 114 (or another entity in system 102).

[0079] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2A, the LCD 114 is implemented as a separate component from module 108 (e.g., not in a shared module housing) and is connected to and capable of communicating with converter 202 via communication path 116. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2B, the LCD 114 is included as a component of module 108 and is connected to and capable of communicating with converter 202 via internal communication path 118 (e.g., a shared bus or separate connection). The LCD 114 may also receive signals from energy buffer 204 and / or energy source 206, and transmit signals to them, via path 116 or 118.

[0080] Module 108 may also include a monitoring network 208, which is configured to monitor (e.g., collect, sense, measure, and / or determine) one or more aspects of Module 108 and / or its components, such as voltage, current, temperature, or other operating parameters, which constitute status information (or can be used, for example, by the LCD 114, to determine the status information). The primary function of the status information is to describe the state of one or more energy sources 206 of Module 108, enabling a decision on how much of the energy sources should be utilized compared to other sources in System 100. However, status information describing the state of other components (e.g., voltage, temperature, and / or presence of faults in Buffer 204, temperature and / or presence of faults in Converter 202, presence of faults elsewhere in Module 108, etc.) can also be used in utilization decisions. The monitoring network 208 may include one or more sensors, shunts, dividers, fault detectors, Coulomb counters, controllers, or other hardware and / or software configured to monitor such aspects. The monitoring network 208 may be separate from the various components 202, 204, and 206, or it may be integrated with each component 202, 204, and 206 (as shown in Figures 2A-2B), or it may be any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the monitoring network 208 may be part of or shared with a battery management system (BMS) for the battery energy source 204. Since two or more types of status information are monitored using a single circuit or device without the need for additional circuitry, or otherwise can be determined algorithmically, separate networks are not required to monitor each type of status information.

[0081] The LCD 114 can receive status information (or raw data) about module components via communication paths 116 and 118. The LCD 114 can also transmit information to module components via paths 116 and 118. Paths 116 and 118 may include diagnostic, measurement, protection, and control signal lines. The transmitted information may be control signals for one or more module components. The control signals may be switch signals for converter 202 and / or one or more signals requesting status information from the module components. For example, the LCD 114 may transmit status information via paths 116 and 118 by directly requesting the status information, or, in some cases, by applying a stimulus (e.g., voltage) that causes the status information to be generated, in combination with a switch signal that places converter 202 into a specific state.

[0082] The physical configuration or layout of module 108 can take various forms. In some embodiments, module 108 may include a common housing in which all module components, such as the converter 202, buffer 204, and source 206, are housed together with other optional components, such as an integrated LCD 114. In other embodiments, the various components may be separated in separate housings that are fixed together. Figure 2C is a block diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of module 108, which comprises a first housing 220 that houses the module's energy source 206 and ancillary electronics such as a monitoring network; a second housing 222 that houses module electronics such as the converter 202, energy buffer 204, and other ancillary electronics such as a monitoring network; and a third housing 224 that houses the LCD 114 for module 108. Electrical connections between the various module components can proceed through housings 220, 222, and 224 and may be exposed on any of the outside of the housings for connection with other modules 108 or other devices such as an MCD 112.

[0083] The modules 108 of system 100 can be physically arranged relative to each other in various configurations depending on the application needs and the number of loads. For example, in a stationary application where system 100 provides power for a microgrid, the modules 108 can be installed in one or more racks or other frameworks. Such a configuration may also be suitable for larger mobile applications such as marine vessels. Alternatively, the modules 108 can be fixed together and located in a common housing referred to as a pack. The rack or pack may have its own dedicated cooling system shared across all modules. The pack configuration is useful for smaller mobile applications such as electric vehicles. System 100 can be implemented using one or more racks (e.g., for parallel supply to a microgrid), or one or more packs (e.g., supplying different motors in a vehicle), or a combination thereof. Figure 2D is a block diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of system 100 in which nine modules 108 are configured as a pack electrically and physically coupled together in a common housing 230.

[0084] Examples of these and further configurations are described in International Application PCT / US20 / 25366, filed on 27 March 2020, entitled "Module-Based Energy Systems Capable of Cascaded and Interconnected Configurations, and Methods Related Thereto" (which, for all purposes, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety).

[0085] Figures 3A-3C are block diagrams depicting exemplary embodiments of module 108 having various electrical configurations. These embodiments are described as having one LCD 114 per module 108, the LCD 114 being housed within the associated module, but they can be configured otherwise as described herein. Figure 3A depicts a first exemplary configuration of module 108A in system 100. Module 108A includes an energy source 206, an energy buffer 204, and a converter 202A. Each component has a power connection port (e.g., terminal, connector) to which power can be input and / or output, referred herein as an IO port. Such ports may also be referred to as input ports or output ports, depending on the context.

[0086] The energy source 206 can be configured as any of the energy source types described herein (e.g., a battery, HED capacitor, fuel cell, or others, as described with respect to Figures 4A–4D). Ports IO1 and IO2 of the energy source 206 can be connected to ports IO1 and IO2 of the energy buffer 204, respectively. The energy buffer 204 can be configured to buffer or filter high and low frequency energy waves arriving at the buffer 204 through the converter 202, which would otherwise degrade the performance of module 108. The topology and components for the buffer 204 are selected to accommodate the maximum allowable amplitude of these high frequency voltage waves. Several (non-exclusive) exemplary embodiments of the energy buffer 204 are depicted in schematic diagrams of Figures 5A–5C. In Figure 5A, the buffer 204 is connected to an electrolytic and / or film capacitor C EB In Figure 5B, buffer 204 consists of two inductors L EB1 and L EB2 and two electrolytic and / or film capacitors C EB1 and C EB2 The Z-source network 710 is formed by the following, and in Figure 5C, the buffer 204 consists of two inductors LEB1 and L EB2 and two electrolytic and / or film capacitors C EB1 and C EB2 and a diode D EB which forms a quasi Z-source network 720.

[0087] Ports IO3 and IO4 of the energy buffer 204 can each be connected to ports IO1 and IO2 of the converter 202A, and the converter 202A can be configured as any of the power converter types described herein. FIG. 6A is a schematic diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of a converter 202A configured as a DC-AC converter that can receive a DC voltage at ports IO1 and IO2 and switch to generate a pulse at ports IO3 and IO4. The converter 202A can include a plurality of switches, and here, the converter 202A includes four switches S3, S4, S5, S6 arranged in a full-bridge configuration. The control system 102 or the LCD 114 can independently control each switch via a control input line 118-3 to each gate.

[0088] The switch can be any suitable switch type such as a power semiconductor such as the metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET), insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT), or gallium nitride (GaN) transistor shown herein. The semiconductor switch operates at a relatively high switching frequency, thereby enabling the converter 202 to be operated in pulse-width modulation (PWM) mode, if desired, and respond to control commands within a relatively short time interval. This can provide a high tolerance for output voltage regulation and fast dynamic behavior in the transient mode.

[0089] In this embodiment, a DC line voltage V DCL can be applied to the converter 202 between ports IO1 and IO2. Different combinations of the switches S3, S4, S5, S6 result in V DCLBy connecting to ports IO3 and IO4, the converter 202 provides three different voltage outputs, namely +V DCL , 0, and -V DCL This can be generated on ports IO3 and IO4. The switch signals provided to each switch control whether the switch is turned on (closed) or off (open). +V DCL To obtain this, switches S3 and S6 are turned on, while S4 and S5 are turned off, -V DCL The voltages can be obtained by turning switches S4 and S5 on and S3 and S6 off. The output voltages can be set to zero (including near zero) or a reference voltage by turning S4 and S6 off with S3 and S5 on, or by turning S3 and S5 off with S4 and S6 on. These voltages can be output from module 108 via power connection 110. Ports IO3 and IO4 of converter 202 can be connected to (or from) module IO ports 1 and 2 of power connection 110 to generate output voltages for use with output voltages from other modules 108.

[0090] The control or switch signals for embodiments of the converter 202 described herein can be generated in different ways depending on the control technique used by the system 100 to generate the output voltage of the converter 202. In some embodiments, the control technique is a PWM technique such as spatial vector pulse width modulation (SVPWM) or sinusoidal pulse width modulation (SPWM) or its variations. Figure 8A is a voltage-versus-time graph illustrating an example of the output voltage waveform 802 of the converter 202. For ease of explanation, embodiments herein will be described in the context of PWM control techniques, but embodiments are not limited thereto. Other classes of techniques may also be used. One alternative class is based on hysteresis, examples of which are described in International Publications WO2018 / 231810A1, WO2018 / 232403A1, and WO2019 / 183553A1 (which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes).

[0091] Each module 108 can be configured with multiple energy sources 206 (e.g., two, three, four, or more). Each energy source 206 of module 108 may be controllable (switchable) to supply power to the connection 110 (or receive power from a charging source) independently of the other sources 206 of the module. For example, all sources 206 may simultaneously output power to the connection 110 (or be charged), or only one (or some) of the sources 206 may supply power (or be charged) at any given time. In some embodiments, the sources 206 of the module can exchange energy with each other, for example, one source 206 may charge another source 206. Each of the sources 206 may be configured as any energy source described herein (e.g., a battery, a HED capacitor, a fuel cell). Each of the sources 206 may be of the same type (for example, each may be a battery) or of different types (for example, the first source may be a battery and the second source may be an HED capacitor, or the first source may be a battery of the first type (for example, an NMC) and the second source may be a battery of the second type (for example, an LFP)).

[0092] Figure 3B is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of module 108B in a dual energy source configuration with a primary energy source 206A and a secondary energy source 206B. Ports IO1 and IO2 of the primary source 202A can be connected to ports IO1 and IO2 of the energy buffer 204. Module 108B includes a converter 202B having additional IO ports. Ports IO3 and IO4 of the buffer 204 can be connected to ports IO1 and IO2 of the converter 202B, respectively. Ports IO1 and IO2 of the secondary source 206B can be connected to ports IO5 and IO2 of the converter 202B (and also to port IO4 of the buffer 204), respectively.

[0093] In this exemplary embodiment of module 108B, the primary energy source 202A, together with the other modules 108 of system 100, supplies the average power required by the load. The secondary source 202B can function as an auxiliary energy source 202 by providing additional power at load power peaks, absorbing excess power, or otherwise.

[0094] As stated, both the primary source 206A and the secondary source 206B can be used simultaneously or at separate times, depending on the switching state of the converter 202B. If used simultaneously, electrolytic and / or film capacitors (C ES The HED capacitor may be installed in parallel with the source 206B, as depicted in Figure 4E, and function as an energy buffer for the source 206B, or the energy source 206B may be configured to utilize the HED capacitor in parallel with another energy source (e.g., a battery or fuel cell), as depicted in Figure 4F.

[0095] Figures 6B and 6C are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of converters 202B and 202C, respectively. Converter 202B includes switch network sections 601 and 602A. Section 601 includes switches S3-S6 configured as a full bridge in a manner similar to converter 202A, configured to selectively couple IO1 and IO2 to either IO3 or IO4, thereby changing the output voltage of module 108B. Section 602A includes switches S1 and S2 configured as a half bridge, coupled between ports IO1 and IO2. Coupling inductor L C However, the switch section 602A is connected between port IO5 and node 1, which is located between switches S1 and S2, so that it is a bidirectional converter capable of adjusting the (boost or buck) voltage (or conversely, current). The switch section 602A is referenced to port IO2, which may be at virtually zero potential, +V DCL2Two different voltages, and 0, can be generated at node 1. The current drawn from or input to the energy source 202B is used, for example, to rectify switches S1 and S2 using pulse width modulation techniques or hysteresis control methods to connect the coupled inductor L C It can be controlled by adjusting the voltage above. Other techniques can also be used.

[0096] Converter 202C differs from that of 202B in that the switching section 602B includes switches S1 and S2 that are configured as a half-bridge and coupled between ports IO5 and IO2. Coupling inductor L C However, the switch section 602B is configured to adjust the voltage, and is connected between port IO1 and node 1, which is located between switches S1 and S2.

[0097] The control system 102 or LCD 114 can independently control the switches of converters 202B and 202C via control input lines 118-3 to each gate. In these embodiments and in Figure 6A, LCD 114 (but not MCD 112) generates the switching signals for the converter switches. Alternatively, MCD 112 can also generate switching signals, which can be communicated directly to the switches or relayed by LCD 114.

[0098] In embodiments where module 108 includes three or more energy sources 206, converters 202B and 202C can be scaled as appropriate so that each additional energy source 206B is coupled to an additional I / O port leading to an additional switch network section 602A or 602B, depending on the needs of a particular source. For example, a dual-source converter 202 may include both switch sections 202A and 202B.

[0099] Module 108 with multiple energy sources 206 can perform additional functions such as energy sharing between sources 206, energy capture from within the application (e.g., regenerative braking), charging of the primary source by the secondary source even while the overall system is in a discharge state, and active filtering of the module output. Examples of these functions are described in detail in International Application PCT / US20 / 25366, filed on 27 March 2020, entitled "Module-Based Energy Systems Capable of Cascaded and Interconnected Configurations, and Methods Related Thereto," and International Publication WO2019 / 183553, filed on 22 March 2019, entitled "Systems and Methods for Power Management and Control" (both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for any purpose).

[0100] Each module 108 can be configured to supply one or more auxiliary loads using its one or more energy sources 206. The auxiliary loads are loads that require a lower voltage than the primary load 101. Examples of auxiliary loads may be, for example, the onboard electrical network of an electric vehicle or the HVAC system of an electric vehicle. The loads of system 100 may be, for example, an electric vehicle motor or one of the phases of a power distribution network. This embodiment allows for complete isolation between the electrical characteristics (terminal voltage and current) of the energy source and the electrical characteristics of the load.

[0101] Figure 3C is a block diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of module 108C configured to supply power to a first auxiliary load 301 and a second auxiliary load 302, the module 108C including an energy source 206, an energy buffer 204, and a converter 202B, coupled together in a manner similar to that of Figure 3B. The first auxiliary load 301 requires a voltage equivalent to that supplied by the source 206. The load 301 is coupled to IO ports 3 and 4 of module 108C, which are, in turn, coupled to ports IO1 and IO2 of the source 206. The source 206 can output power to both the power connection 110 and the load 301. The second auxiliary load 302 requires a constant voltage lower than that of the source 206. The load 302 is coupled to IO ports 5 and 6 of module 108C, which are, in turn, coupled to ports IO5 and IO2 of the converter 202B. Converter 202B is coupled to port IO5 (Figure 6B) with a coupling inductor L C The converter 202B may include a switch section 602 having a coupling inductor L. The energy supplied by the power source 206 can be supplied to the load 302 through the switch section 602 of the converter 202B. The load 302 has an input capacitor (a capacitor may be added to module 108C if not applicable), and thus switches S1 and S2 have a coupling inductor L. C It is assumed that the voltage above and the current passing through it are rectified to adjust and thus produce a stable constant voltage for the load 302. This adjustment can reduce the voltage of source 206 to a lower magnitude voltage required by the load 302.

[0102] Module 108C can therefore be configured to supply one or more first auxiliary loads in the manner described with respect to load 301, with one or more first loads coupled to IO ports 3 and 4. Module 108C can also be configured to supply one or more second auxiliary loads in the manner described with respect to load 302. If there are multiple second auxiliary loads 302, module 108C can be scaled with respect to each additional load 302 with additional dedicated module output ports (such as 5 and 6), additional dedicated switch sections 602, and additional converter IO ports coupled to the additional sections 602.

[0103] The energy source 206 can therefore supply power for any number of auxiliary loads (e.g., 301 and 302) and the corresponding portion of the system output power required by the primary load 101. The power flow from the source 206 to the various loads can be adjusted as desired.

[0104] Module 108 may optionally consist of two or more energy sources 206 (Figure 3B), which can be configured to supply the first and / or second auxiliary load (Figure 3C) with respect to each additional source 206B or second auxiliary load 302 through the addition of a switch section 602 and converter port IO5. Additional module IO ports (e.g., 3, 4, 5, 6) may be added as needed. Module 108 may also be configured as an interconnection module that can exchange energy between two or more arrays, two or more packs, or two or more systems 100 as described further herein (e.g., for equilibrium). This interconnection functionality can also be combined with the ability to supply multiple sources and / or multiple auxiliary loads.

[0105] The control system 102 can perform various functions related to the components of modules 108A, 108B, and 108C. These functions may include managing the utilization (amount used) of each energy source 206, protecting the energy buffer 204 from overcurrent, overvoltage, and high-temperature conditions, and controlling and protecting the converter 202.

[0106] For example, in order to manage the utilization of each energy source 206 (e.g., by adjusting it by increasing, decreasing, or maintaining it), the LCD 114 may receive one or more monitoring voltages, temperatures, and currents from each energy source 206 (or monitoring network). The monitoring voltages may be at least one, preferably all, of the voltages of each basic component independent of other components of the source 206 (e.g., each individual battery, HED capacitor, and / or fuel cell), or the voltage of the group of basic components as a whole (e.g., the voltages of the battery array, HED capacitor array, and / or fuel cell array). Similarly, the monitoring temperatures and currents may be at least one, preferably all, of the temperatures and currents of each basic component independent of other components of the source 206, or the temperature and currents of the group of basic components as a whole, or any combination thereof. The monitoring signal may be status information, which the LCD114 may use to perform one or more of the following: calculation or determination of the actual capacity, actual state of charge (SOC), and / or state of health (SOH) of a basic component or group of basic components; setting or outputting a warning or alarm indication based on the monitored and / or calculated status information; and / or transmission of the status information to the MCD112. The LCD114 may receive control information (e.g., modulation index, synchronization signal) from the MCD112 and use this control information to generate a switch signal for the converter 202 that manages the utilization of the source 206.

[0107] To protect the energy buffer 204, the LCD 114 can receive one or more monitoring voltages, temperatures, and currents from the energy buffer 204 (or monitoring network). The monitoring voltages are independent of other components of each basic component of the buffer 204 (e.g., C EB , C EB1 , C EB2 , L EB1 , L EB2 , D EB The monitoring temperature and current may be at least one, preferably all, of the voltages of the basic components of buffer 204, or the voltages of the group of basic components of buffer 204 as a whole (for example, between IO1 and IO2 or between IO3 and IO4). Similarly, the monitoring temperature and current may be at least one, preferably all, of the temperature and current of each basic component of buffer 204 independent of other components, or the temperature and current of the group of basic components of buffer 204 as a whole, or any combination thereof. The monitoring signal may be status information, which LCD 114 may use to perform one or more of the following: setting or outputting a warning or alarm indication; communicating the status information to MCD 112; or the control converter 202 may adjust (increase or decrease) the utilization of the source 206 and module 108 as a whole for buffer protection.

[0108] To control and protect the converter 202, the LCD 114 can receive control information (e.g., a modulated reference signal, or a reference signal and modulation index) from the MCD 112, which can be used within the LCD 114 using PWM techniques to generate control signals for each switch (e.g., S1-S6). The LCD 114 can receive current feedback signals from the current sensor of the converter 202, which can be used for overcurrent protection along with one or more fault status signals from the driver circuit (not shown) of the converter switches, which may carry information about the fault status (e.g., short circuit or open circuit fault mode) of all switches in the converter 202. Based on this data, the LCD 114 can manage the utilization of module 108 and potentially make decisions regarding combinations of switching signals to be applied to bypass or disconnect the converter 202 (and the entire module 108) from system 100.

[0109] When controlling module 108C which supplies power to the second auxiliary load 302, LCD 114 displays one or more monitored voltages within module 108C (e.g., voltages between IO ports 5 and 6) and one or more monitored currents (e.g., the current of the coupled inductor L, which is the current of load 302). C The LCD114 can receive the internal current and other signals. Based on these signals, the LCD114 can adjust the switching cycle of S1 and S2 and control (and stabilize) the voltage for the load 302 (for example, by adjusting the modulation index or reference waveform). (Example of a cascade energy system topology)

[0110] Two or more modules 108 can be coupled together in a cascaded array, which outputs a voltage signal formed by the superposition of separate voltages generated by each module 108 in the array. Figure 7A is a block diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of the topology for system 100, where N modules 108-1, 108-2...108-N are coupled together in series to form a series array 700. In this embodiment and all embodiments described herein, N can be any integer greater than or equal to 2. The array 700 includes a first system I / O port SIO1 and a second system I / O port SIO2, through which the array output voltage is generated. The array 700 can be used as a DC or single-phase AC energy source for DC or single-phase AC loads that can be connected to SIO1 and SIO2 of the array 700. Figure 8A is a voltage-versus-time plot depicting an exemplary output signal 801 produced by a single module 108 having a 48-volt energy source. Figure 8B is a voltage-versus-time plot illustrating an exemplary single-phase AC output signal 802 generated by an array 700 having six 48V modules 108 coupled in series.

[0111] System 100 can be arranged in a wide variety of different topologies to meet the diverse needs of its applications. By using multiple arrays 700, System 100 can provide multiphase power (e.g., 2-phase, 3-phase, 4-phase, 5-phase, 6-phase, etc.) to a load, and each array can generate AC output signals with different phase angles.

[0112] Figure 7B is a block diagram depicting system 100 with two arrays 700-PA and 700-PB joined together. Each array 700 is one-dimensional and formed by a series connection of N modules 108. Each of the two arrays 700-PA and 700-PB can generate a single-phase AC signal, and the two AC signals have different phase angles PA and PB (e.g., 180 degrees apart). The IO port 1 of module 108-1 of each array 700-PA and 700-PB can form or be connected to system IO ports SIO1 and SIO2, respectively, which can then serve as the first outputs of each array capable of providing two-phase power to a load (not shown). Alternatively, ports SIO1 and SIO2 can be connected to provide single-phase power from two parallel arrays. The IO port 2 of module 108-N of each array 700-PA and 700-PB can serve as a second output for each array 700-PA and 700-PB, located on the opposite end from the array system IO ports SIO1 and SIO2. The IO port 2 of module 108-N of each array 700-PA and 700-PB can be coupled together at a common node and optionally used for an additional system IO port SIO3 if desired, and it can serve as a neutral. This common node may be referred to as a rail, and the IO port 2 of module 108-N of each array 700 may be referred to as being on the rail side of the array.

[0113] Figure 7C is a block diagram depicting system 100 with three arrays 700-PA, 700-PB, and 700-PC coupled together. Each array 700 is one-dimensional and formed by a series connection of N modules 108. Each of the three arrays 700-1 and 700-2 can generate a single-phase AC signal, and the three AC signals have different phase angles PA, PB, and PC (e.g., 120 degrees apart). The IO port 1 of module 108-1 of each array 700-PA, 700-PB, and 700-PC can form or be connected to system IO ports SIO1, SIO2, and SIO3, respectively, and system IO ports SIO1, SIO2, and SIO3 can then provide three-phase power to a load (not shown). The IO port 2 of module 108-N of each array 700-PA, 700-PB, and 700-PC can be coupled together at a common node and can optionally be used for an additional system IO port SIO4 if desired, which can serve a neutral role.

[0114] The concepts described with respect to the two-phase and three-phase embodiments in Figures 7B and 7C can be extended to systems 100 that generate power with even more phases. For example, a non-inclusive list of additional examples includes a system 100 having four arrays 700 configured to generate single-phase AC signals, each having a different phase angle (e.g., 90 degrees apart); a system 100 having five arrays 700 configured to generate single-phase AC signals, each having a different phase angle (e.g., 72 degrees apart); and a system 100 having six arrays 700 configured to generate single-phase AC signals, each having a different phase angle (e.g., 60 degrees apart).

[0115] System 100 can be configured such that arrays 700 are interconnected at electrical nodes between modules 108 within each array. Figure 7D is a block diagram depicting System 100 with three arrays 700-PA, 700-PB, and 700-PC coupled together in combined series and delta configurations. Each array 700 includes a first series connection of M modules 108 (where M is 2 or greater), and this first series connection is coupled with a second series connection of N modules 108 (where N is 2 or greater). A delta configuration is formed by interconnections between arrays, and these interconnections can be placed at any desired location. In this embodiment, the IO port 2 of module 108-(M+N) of array 700-PC is coupled with the IO port 2 of module 108-M and the IO port 1 of module 108-(M+1) of array 700-PA, the IO port 2 of module 108-(M+N) of array 700-PB is coupled with the IO port 2 of module 108-M and the IO port 1 of module 108-(M+1) of array 700-PC, and the IO port 2 of module 108-(M+N) of array 700-PA is coupled with the IO port 2 of module 108-M and the IO port 1 of module 108-(M+1) of array 700-PB.

[0116] Figure 7E is a block diagram depicting system 100 with three arrays 700-PA, 700-PB, and 700-PC coupled together in combined series and delta configurations. This embodiment is similar to that of Figure 7D but involves different cross-connections. In this embodiment, IO port 2 of module 108-M of array 700-PC is coupled to IO port 1 of module 108-1 of array 700-PA, IO port 2 of module 108-M of array 700-PB is coupled to IO port 1 of module 108-1 of array 700-PC, and IO port 2 of module 108-M of array 700-PA is coupled to IO port 1 of module 108-1 of array 700-PB. The configurations in Figures 7D and 7E can be implemented with fewer modules, such as two within each array 700. The combined delta and series configurations enable effective energy exchange (interphase equilibrium) between all modules 108 of the system and effective phase exchange of the grid or load, reducing the total number of modules 108 in the array 700 and also allowing the acquisition of a desired output voltage.

[0117] In the embodiments described herein, it is advantageous, but not required, that the number of modules 108 be the same in each array 700 within the system 100, and different arrays 700 may have different numbers of modules 108. Furthermore, each array 700 may have modules 108 that are all identical (e.g., all modules are 108A, all modules are 108B, all modules are 108C, or otherwise) or different (e.g., one or more modules are 108A, one or more modules are 108B, one or more modules are 108C, or otherwise). Thus, the range of system 100 topologies covered herein is extensive. (Exemplary embodiment of control methodology)

[0118] As described, control of system 100 can be carried out according to various methodologies such as hysteresis or PWM. Some examples of PWM include spatial vector modulation and sinusoidal pulse width modulation, and the switching signals for converter 202 are generated using a phase-shift carrier technique that continuously rotates the utilization of each module 108 and distributes the power equally among them.

[0119] Figures 8C–8F are plots illustrating exemplary embodiments of a phase-shifted PWM control methodology that can generate multilevel output PWM waveforms using incrementally shifted two-level waveforms. An X-level PWM waveform can be generated by the sum of two-level PWM waveforms of (X-1) / 2. These two-level waveforms can be generated by comparing a reference waveform Vref with a carrier that has been incrementally shifted by 360° / (X-1). The carrier is triangular, but embodiments are not limited in that way. A 9-level example is shown in Figure 8C (using four modules 108). The carrier is incrementally shifted by 360° / (9-1)=45° and compared with Vref. The resulting two-level PWM waveform is shown in Figure 8E. These two-level waveforms can be used as switching signals for semiconductor switches (e.g., S1–S6) of converter 202. For example, referring to Figure 8E, with respect to a one-dimensional array 700, each containing four modules 108 with converters 202, the 0° signal is for controlling S3 of the first module 108-1, the 180° signal is for S6 of the first module 108-1, the 45° signal is for S3 of the second module 108-2, the 225° signal is for S6 of the second module 108-2, the 90° signal is for S3 of the third module 108-3, the 270° signal is for S6 of the third module 108-3, the 135° signal is for S3 of the fourth module 108-4, and the 315° signal is for S6 of the fourth module 108-4. The signal for S3 is complementary to S4 with sufficient dead time to avoid shoot-through of each half-bridge, and the signal for S5 is complementary to S6. Figure 8F depicts an exemplary single-phase AC waveform produced by the superposition (sum) of the output voltages from the four modules 108.

[0120] An alternative is to utilize both positive and negative reference signals along with the first (N-1) / 2 carrier. A 9-level example is shown in Figure 8D. In this example, the 0°~135° switching signal (Figure 8E) is generated by comparing +Vref with the 0°~135° carrier in Figure 8D, and the 180°~315° switching signal is generated by comparing -Vref with the 0°~135° carrier in Figure 8D. However, the logic of the comparison in the latter case is reversed. Other techniques, such as state machine decoders, may also be used to generate gate signals for switching converter 202.

[0121] In a multiphase system embodiment, the same carriers can be used for each phase, or a set of carriers can be shifted as a whole for each phase. For example, in a three-phase system with a single reference voltage (Vref), each array 700 can use the same number of carriers with the same relative offset as shown in Figures 8C and 8D, but the carriers of the second phase are shifted by 120 degrees compared to the carriers of the first phase, and the carriers of the third phase are shifted by 240 degrees compared to the carriers of the first phase. If different reference voltages are available for each phase, the phase information can be carried within the reference voltage, and the same carriers can be used for each phase. Often the carrier frequency will be fixed, but in some exemplary embodiments, the carrier frequency can be tuned, which can help reduce losses in EV motors under high-current conditions.

[0122] An appropriate switching signal can be provided to each module by the control system 102. For example, the MCD 112 can provide each LCD 114 with Vref and an appropriate carrier signal depending on the module or multiple modules 108 controlled by the LCD 114, and the LCD 114 can then generate a switching signal. Alternatively, all LCD 114 in the array can be provided with all carrier signals, and the LCDs can select the appropriate carrier signal.

[0123] The relative utilization of each module 108 can be adjusted based on status information, as described herein, to perform balancing of one or more parameters. Parameter balancing may involve adjusting utilization and minimizing parameter divergence over time compared to a system in which individual module utilization adjustments are not performed. Utilization may be the relative amount of time that module 108 is discharging when system 100 is in a discharge state, or the relative amount of time that module 108 is charging when system 100 is in a charge state.

[0124] As described herein, module 108 can be balanced with respect to other modules in array 700, which may be referred to as intra-array or intra-phase balance; different arrays 700 can also be balanced with respect to each other, which may be referred to as inter-array or inter-phase balance. Arrays 700 of different subsystems can also be balanced with respect to each other. The control system 102 can simultaneously implement any combination of intra-phase balance, inter-phase balance, utilization of multiple energy sources within a module, active filtering, and auxiliary load supply.

[0125] Figure 9A is a block diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of an array controller 900 of a control system 102 for a single-phase AC or DC array. The array controller 900 may include a peak detector 902, a divider 904, and an in-phase (or in-array) balancing controller 906. The array controller 900 can receive a reference voltage waveform (Vr) and status information (e.g., charge state (SOCi), temperature (Ti), capacitance (Qi), and voltage (Vi)) for each of the N modules 108 in the array as input and generate a normalized reference voltage waveform (Vrn) and modulation index (Mi) as output. The peak detector 902 detects the peak (Vpk) of Vr, which may be specific to the phase in which the controller 900 is operating and / or maintaining balance. The divider 904 generates Vrn by dividing Vr by its detected Vpk. The phase-to-phase balance controller 906 uses Vpk along with status information (e.g., SOCi, Ti, Qi, Vi, etc.) to generate a modulation index Mi for each module 108 in the controlled array 700.

[0126] The modulation index and Vrn can be used to generate a switching signal for each converter 202. The modulation index can be a number between zero and one (including zero and one). For a particular module 108, a normalized reference Vrn can be modulated or scaled by Mi, and this modulated reference signal (Vrnm) can be used as Vref (or -Vref) according to the PWM technique described with respect to Figures 8C-8F or according to other techniques. Thus, the modulation index can be used to control the PWM switching signal provided to the converter switching network (e.g., S3-S6 or S1-S6) and thus to coordinate the operation of each module 108. For example, a module 108 controlled to maintain normal or full operation may receive a Mi of 1, while a module 108 controlled to normal or less than full operation may receive a Mi of less than 1, and a module 108 controlled to shut off power output may receive a Mi of zero. This operation can be carried out by the control system 102 in various ways (for example, by having the MCD 112 output Vrn and Mi to the appropriate LCD 114 for modulation and switch signal generation, by having the MCD 112 perform modulation for switch signal generation and output the modulated Vrnm to the appropriate LCD 114, or by having the MCD 112 perform modulation and switch signal generation and output the switch signal directly to the LCD or converter 202 of each module 108). Vrn can be transmitted continuously along with Mi, which is transmitted at regular intervals, such as once per Vrn period or once per minute.

[0127] The controller 906 can generate Mi for each module 108 using status information of any type or combination of types described herein (e.g., SOC, temperature (T), Q, SOH, voltage, current). For example, using SOC and T, module 108 may have a relatively high Mi if its SOC is relatively high and its temperature is relatively low compared to other modules 108 in the array 700. If its SOC is relatively low or its T is relatively high, module 108 may have a relatively low Mi and result in less utilization than other modules 108 in the array 700. The controller 906 can determine Mi such that the sum of the module voltages does not exceed Vpk. For example, Vpk is the sum of the products of the voltages of the source 206 for each module and the Mi for that module (e.g., Vpk = M1V1 + M2V2 + M3V3... + M N V N (etc.) may be used. Different combinations of modulation indices, and therefore the respective voltage contributions of the modules, may be used, but the total generated voltage should remain the same.

[0128] The controller 900 can control its operation at any point in time (e.g., during maximum acceleration of the EV), as long as it does not prevent it from achieving the system's power output requirements, thereby ensuring that the State of Charge (SOC) of the energy sources within each module 108 remains balanced, or converges to a balanced state if they are unbalanced, and / or that the temperatures of the energy sources or other components (e.g., energy buffers) within each module remain balanced, or converges to a balanced state if they are unbalanced. Power flow into and out of the modules can be adjusted so that capacitance differences between sources do not cause SOC deviations. Equilibrium of SOC and temperature can indirectly lead to some degree of equilibrium of SOH. Voltage and current can be directly balanced if desired, but in many embodiments, the primary goal of the system is to maintain equilibrium of SOC and temperature, and equilibrium of SOC can lead to equilibrium of voltage and current in a highly symmetric system (where modules have similar capacitance and impedance).

[0129] Since it is not always possible to maintain equilibrium for all parameters simultaneously (for example, equilibrium for one parameter may further de-equilibrium another), combinations of maintaining equilibrium for any two or more parameters (SOC, T, Q, SOH, V, I) may be applied with a priority given to one of them, depending on the requirements of the application. The priority in equilibrium may be given to SOC compared to the other parameters (T, Q, SOH, V, I), with exceptions allowed if one of the other parameters (T, Q, SOH, V, I) reaches a severe disequilibrium condition outside the threshold.

[0130] Equilibrium between arrays 700 of different phases (or, for example, arrays of the same phase if parallel arrays are used) can be performed simultaneously with intraphase equilibrium. Figure 9B depicts an exemplary embodiment of an Ω-phase (or Ω-array) controller 950 configured for operation within an Ω-phase system 100 having at least Ω arrays 700, where Ω is any integer greater than or equal to 2. The controller 950 may include one interphase (or inter-array) controller 910, Ω intraphase equilibrium controllers 906-PA···906-PΩ for phases PA~PΩ, and peak detectors 902 and dividers 904 (Figure 9A) for generating a normalized reference VrnPA~VrnPΩ from each phase-specific reference VrPA~VrPΩ. The intraphase controller 906 can generate Mi for each module 108 of each array 700, as described with respect to Figure 9A. The interphase balance controller 910 is configured or programmed to maintain balance across the entire multidimensional system, for example, between the sides of module 108 between arrays of different phases. This can be achieved through the injection of common modes into the phase (e.g., neutral point shift), through the use of interconnection modules (as described herein), or both. Common mode injection involves introducing phase and amplitude shifts into a reference signal VrPA~VrPΩ to generate a normalized waveform VrnPA~VrnPΩ to compensate for imbalances in one or more arrays, and is further described in International Application PCT / US20 / 25366 incorporated herein.

[0131] Controllers 900 and 950 (and balanced controllers 906 and 910) can be implemented within the control system 102 in hardware, software, or a combination thereof. Controllers 900 and 950 can be distributed between LCDs 114, either partially or completely, and implemented within the MCD 112, or they can be implemented as separate controllers, independent of the MCD 112 and LCDs 114. (Exemplary embodiment of an interconnect (IC) module)

[0132] Module 108 can be connected between modules of different arrays 700 for the purpose of exchanging energy between arrays, for the purpose of functioning as a source for auxiliary loads, or for both purposes. Such a module is referred herein to as an interconnection (IC) module 108IC. IC module 108IC can be implemented in any of the module configurations already described (108A, 108B, 108C) and others described herein. IC module 108IC may include any number of one or more energy sources, an optional energy buffer, a switching network for supplying energy to one or more arrays and / or power to one or more auxiliary loads, a control network (e.g., a local control device), and a monitoring network for collecting status information about the IC module itself or its various loads (e.g., SOC of the energy sources, temperature of the energy sources or energy buffers, capacity of the energy sources, SOH of the energy sources, voltage and / or current measurements for the IC module, voltage and / or current measurements for the auxiliary loads, etc.).

[0133] Figure 10A is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a system 100 capable of producing Ω phase power using Ω arrays 700-PA to 700-PΩ, where Ω can be any integer greater than or equal to 2. IC module 108IC is located on the rail side of array 700, and arrays 700-PA to 700-PΩ are electrically positioned between module 108IC and the outputs SIO1 to SIOΩ to the load. Module 108IC has Ω IO ports for connection to IO port 2 of each module 108 to N in arrays 700-PA to 700-PΩ. In the configuration depicted herein, module 108IC can achieve interphase balance by selectively connecting one or more of its energy sources to one or more of arrays 700-PA to 700-PΩ (or to no output, or equally to all outputs, if interphase balance is not required). System 100 can be controlled by a control system 102 (not shown, see Figure 1A).

[0134] Figure 10B is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of module 108IC. In this embodiment, module 108IC includes an energy source 206 connected to an energy buffer 204, which is then connected to a switch network 603. The switch network 603 may include switch network units 604-PA to 604-PΩ, each independently connecting the energy source 206 to each of the arrays 700-PA to 700-PΩ. Various switch configurations can be used for each unit 604, which in this embodiment is configured as a half-bridge with two semiconductor switches S7 and S8. Each half-bridge is controlled by control lines 118-3 from LCD 114. This configuration is similar to module 108A described with respect to Figure 3A. As described with respect to converter 202, the switch network 603 can be composed of any switch type (e.g., MOSFET, IGBT, silicon, GaN, etc.) in any arrangement suitable for the requirements of the application.

[0135] The switch network unit 604 is coupled between the positive and negative terminals of the energy source 206 and has an output connected to the I / O port of module 108 IC. Units 604-PA to 604-PΩ are controlled by the control system 102 with a voltage of +V IC or -V ICThese can be controlled to selectively couple to the respective module I / O ports 1~Ω. The control system 102 can control the switch network 603 according to any desired control technique, including the PWM and hysteresis techniques described herein. Here, the control circuit network 102 is implemented as LCD 114 and MCD 112 (not shown). LCD 114 can receive monitoring data or status information from the monitoring network of module 108 IC. This monitoring data and / or other status information derived from this monitoring data can be output to MCD 112 for use in system control, as described herein. LCD 114 can also receive timing information (not shown) for the purpose of synchronizing module 108 of system 100, and one or more carrier signals (not shown), such as sawtooth signals (Figures 8C-8D) used in PWM.

[0136] For interphase equilibrium, proportionally more energy from source 206 can be supplied to one or more of the arrays 700-PA to 700-PΩ, which are in a relatively low-charge state compared to the other arrays 700. This supplemental energy supply to a particular array 700 allows for a reduction in the energy output of those cascaded modules 108-1 to 108-N within that array 700 compared to a phase array that is not supplied.

[0137] For example, in some exemplary embodiments where PWM is applied, The LCD114 can be configured to receive a normalized voltage reference signal (Vrn), e.g., VrnPA to VrnPΩ, for each of the one or more arrays 700 to which the module 108IC is coupled (from the MCD112). The LCD114 can also receive a modulation index MiPA to MiPΩ for the switch units 604-PA to 604-PΩ from the MCD112 for each array 700. The LCD114 can modulate (e.g., multiply) each respective Vrn using the modulation index for the switch divisions directly coupled to its array (e.g., VrnA multiplied by MiA), and then use the carrier signal to generate a control signal for each switch unit 604. In another embodiment, the MCD112 can perform the modulation and output the modulated voltage reference waveform for each unit 604 directly to the LCD114 of the module 108IC. In yet another embodiment, all processing and modulation can be performed by a single control entity that can output the control signal directly to each unit 604.

[0138] This switching can be modulated so that power from energy source 206 can be supplied to array 700 at appropriate intervals and durations. Such methodologies can be implemented in various ways.

[0139] Based on the status information collected about the system 100, such as the current capacity (Q) and the SOC of each energy source within each array, the MCD 112 can determine the total charge for each array 700 (for example, the total charge for a given array can be determined as the sum of capacity × SOC for each module in that array). The MCD 112 can determine whether balanced or unbalanced conditions exist (for example, through the use of relative difference thresholds and other metrics described herein) and, as appropriate, generate a modulation index MiPA to MiPΩ for each switch unit 604-PA to 604-PΩ.

[0140] During balanced operation, Mi for each switch unit 604 can be set to a value such that the same or similar amount of net energy is supplied to each array 700 over time by the energy source 206 and / or energy buffer 204. For example, Mi for each switch unit 604 can be set to a level or value such that, during balanced operation, module 108IC performs a net or time-averaged discharge of energy to one or more arrays 700-PA~700-PΩ, which may be the same or similar and drains at the same rate as other modules 108 in the system 100. In some embodiments, Mi for each unit 604 can be set to a level or value that does not cause a net or time-averaged discharge of energy (causing zero net energy discharge) during balanced operation. This may be useful if module 108IC has a lower total charge than other modules in the system.

[0141] If non-equilibrium conditions occur between arrays 700, the modulation index of system 100 can be adjusted to cause convergence toward equilibrium conditions or to minimize further divergence. For example, the control system 102 can cause module 108IC to discharge more to array 700 with lower charge levels than others, and relatively less to modules 108-1 to 108-N of that lower array 700 (e.g., on a time-averaged basis). The relative net energy given by module 108IC increases compared to modules 108-1 to 108-N of the supported array 700, and also increases compared to the amount of net energy given by module 108IC to the other arrays. This can be accomplished by increasing the Mi of the switch unit 604 supplying the low array 700, and by decreasing the modulation index of modules 108-1 to 108-N of the low array 700 in a manner that maintains the Vout for the low array at an appropriate or required level and keeps the modulation indices of the other switch units 604 supplying the other higher arrays relatively invariant (or decreases them).

[0142] The configuration of module 108IC in Figures 10A-10B can be used alone to provide interphase or interarray balance for a single system, or it can be used in combination with one or more other modules 108IC, each having an energy source and one or more switch parts 604 coupled to one or more arrays. For example, module 108IC with Ω switch parts 604 coupled to Ω different arrays 700 can be combined with a second module 108IC having one switch part 604 coupled to one array 700, thereby the two modules being coupled to supply a system 100 having Ω+1 arrays 700. Any number of modules 108IC can be combined in this manner, each coupled to one or more arrays 700 of system 100.

[0143] Furthermore, the IC module can be configured to exchange energy between two or more subsystems of system 100. Figure 10C is a block diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of system 100, comprising a first subsystem 1000-1 and a second subsystem 1000-2 interconnected by the IC module. Specifically, subsystem 1000-1 is configured to supply three-phase power PA, PB, and PC to a first load (not shown) using system I / O ports SIO1, SIO2, and SIO3, while subsystem 1000-2 is configured to supply three-phase power PD, PE, and PF to a second load (not shown) using system I / O ports SIO4, SIO5, and SIO06. For example, subsystems 1000-1 and 1000-2 can be configured as different packs supplying power for different motors of an EV, or as different racks supplying power for different microgrids.

[0144] In this embodiment, each module 108IC is coupled to the first array of subsystem 1000-1 (via I / O port 1) and the first array of subsystem 1000-2 (via I / O port 2), and each module 108IC can be electrically connected to each other module 108IC using I / O ports 3 and 4 which are coupled to the energy source 206 of each module 108IC, as described with respect to module 108C in Figure 3C. This connection places the sources 206 of modules 108IC-1, 108IC-2, and 108IC-3 in parallel, and thus the energy stored and supplied by modules 108IC is pooled together by this parallel arrangement. Other arrangements, such as series connections, can also be used. The modules 108IC are housed within a common enclosure of subsystem 1000-1; however, the interconnection modules are outside the common enclosure and can be physically located as independent entities between the common enclosures of both subsystems 1000.

[0145] Each module 108IC has a switch unit 604-1 coupled to I / O port 1 and a switch unit 604-2 coupled to I / O port 2, as described with respect to Figure 10B. Thus, for balance between subsystems 1000 (e.g., between packs or between racks), a particular module 108IC can supply a relatively large amount of energy to one or both of the two arrays to which it is connected (e.g., module 108IC-1 can supply energy to array 700-PA and / or array 700-PD). The control network can monitor the relative parameters (e.g., SOC and temperature) of arrays of different subsystems, adjust the energy output of the IC modules, and compensate for imbalance between arrays or phases of different subsystems, in the same manner as compensating for imbalance between two arrays of the same rack or pack as described herein. Since all three modules 108IC are in parallel, energy can be efficiently exchanged between any arrays of system 100. In this embodiment, each module 108IC supplies two arrays 700, but other configurations can also be used (including a single IC module for all arrays of system 100 and one dedicated IC module for each array 700 (for example, six IC modules for six arrays, each IC module having one switch unit 604)). In all cases involving multiple IC modules, the energy sources can be coupled together in parallel to share energy, as described herein.

[0146] In systems with IC modules between phases, interphase equilibrium can also be achieved by neutral point shift (or common-mode injection), as described above. Such combinations allow for more robust and flexible equilibrium under a wider range of operating conditions. System 100 can determine the appropriate conditions under which interphase equilibrium should be achieved using neutral point shift alone, interphase energy injection alone, or a combination of both simultaneously.

[0147] The IC module can also be configured to supply power to one or more auxiliary loads 301 (at the same voltage as source 206) and / or one or more auxiliary loads 302 (at a reduced voltage from source 302). Figure 10D is a block diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of a three-phase system 100A with two modules 108IC connected to perform inter-phase balancing and supply power to auxiliary loads 301 and 302. Figure 10E is a schematic diagram depicting this exemplary embodiment of system 100 with emphasis on modules 108IC-1 and 108IC-2. Here, the control circuit network 102 is again implemented as LCD 114 and MCD 112 (not shown). LCD114 can receive monitoring data (e.g., SOC of ES1, temperature of ES1, Q of ES1, voltages of auxiliary loads 301 and 302, etc.) from module 108IC and can output this monitoring data and / or other monitoring data to MCD112 for use in system control, as described herein. Each module 108IC may include a switch section 602A (or 602B as described in relation to Figure 6C) for each load 302 supplied by that module, and each switch section 602 may be controlled by LCD114 to maintain essential voltage levels for the loads 302, independently or based on a control input from MCD112. In this embodiment, each module 108IC includes a switch section 602A connected together and supplying one load 302, but is not required to do so.

[0148] The energy source 206 of each IC module may, but is not required to, be the same voltage and capacitance as the sources 206 of the other modules 108-1 to 108-N in the system. For example, a relatively high capacitance may be desirable in embodiments where one module 108IC supplies energy to multiple arrays 700 (Figure 10A) and the IC module discharges at the same rate as the modules of the phase array itself. If module 108IC also supplies an auxiliary load, even greater capacitance may be desired to allow the IC module to both supply the auxiliary load and discharge at a relatively similar rate to the other modules. (Exemplary embodiment of the framework)

[0149] This subject relates to an enclosure framework (e.g., a cabinet or rack of a matching size) that allows for immediate customization to add or subtract modules 108 present in a multilevel converter system 100 that provides multiphase power to a load. Exemplary embodiments relating to the framework are described with reference to Figure 11A-18. These embodiments can be implemented using all aspects of the system 100 described with reference to Figure 1A-10E, unless otherwise described or unless logically impractical. Thus, many of the modifications already described will not be repeated with respect to the following embodiments.

[0150] Exemplary embodiments of a multilevel three-phase system 100 are shown in Figures 11A and 11B. Each system 100 has three one-dimensional arrays of module 108, 700-PA, 700-PB, and 700-PC, where each module 108 in a particular array 700 is connected in series and the voltages can be summed to provide a total voltage with respect to the phase. A row of modules, e.g., a first row in Figure 11A containing three modules 108-1 of array 700-PA, 700-PB, and 700-PC, and a corresponding row in Figure 11B, and each similar row represents a level of system 100, with each level supplying power for a different phase. A column of modules, e.g., a first column in Figure 11A containing "N" modules 108-1 to 108-N of array 700-PA, and a corresponding column in Figure 11B, contains modules 108 connected for a first phase (PA). Similarly, the second column of array 700-PB containing N modules 108-1 to 108-N contains N modules connected for the second phase. Similarly, the third column of array 700-PC containing N modules 108-1 to 108-N contains N modules connected for the third phase.

[0151] In Figures 11A and 11B, the communication paths for bidirectional information communication between module 108 and the control system 102, which in this embodiment is MCD112, are indicated by arrows 1103. As described above, each phase (PA, PB, PC) module 108 receives a voltage reference signal (Vref) specific to its phase and "N" modulation indices (M), one of which is unique to each module. Status and sensor data collected in each module or from the auxiliary sensor 1106 are communicated back to the MCD112 via these paths.

[0152] Figure 11A depicts a system 100 in which a communication path 1103 extends from the MCD112 to the first module 108-1 of each phase (e.g., to LCD114 (not shown)), and from there, an information path 1103 continues in a daisy-chain or series configuration between modules 108 to the remaining modules 108-2-108-N of each phase. In Figure 1B, information for all three phases is passed along one or more buses 1158 to a switching network 1159 (Sx-1-Sx-N) for each level, which is then selectively routed to the module 108 of each level. The switching network 1159 can be housed together with the module 108 in a cabinet or rack for that level. In another alternative (not shown), separate, independent bidirectional paths exist between each module (e.g., LCD114) and the MCD112. For example, a combination of approaches is possible in which Vref is communicated using the method shown in Figure 11A (or 11B), and the remaining data is communicated using other methods shown in Figure 11B (or 11A). Each communication path or link may be a wired or wireless communication path or link that communicates data or information bidirectionally in a parallel or serial manner. The data can be communicated in a standard or custom format.

[0153] Figure 12A is a block diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of the enclosure framework 1200 corresponding to the geometric arrangement in Figures 11A and 11B. Figures 12B and 12C show a front view and a perspective view, respectively, of an exemplary electronic equipment cabinet 1201, sometimes referred to as a “rack,” which is suitable for use in the framework. Other designs relating to cabinets or racks having the characteristic of arranging electronic components in a straight line, for example, along a vertical line, may also be suitable. Figure 12D depicts an exemplary implementation of multiple cabinets 1201 arranged within the framework 1200.

[0154] As can be seen in Figure 12A, modules 108-1 to 108-N for each array 700 (e.g., modules 108-1 to 108-N for array 700-PA, modules 108-1 to 108-N for array 700-PB, and modules 108-1 to 108-N for array 700-PC) are aligned in separate rows along a first straight line 1202 to facilitate direct connections between modules within each array 700. For example, modules 108 may be aligned in separate rows parallel to the horizontal line 1202. Connections between modules 108 can be in series or parallel. In the illustrated example, modules 108-1 to 108-N for array 700-PA are in the upper row, modules 108-1 to 108-N for array 700-PB are in the middle row, and modules 108-1 to 108-N for array 700-PC are in the lower row.

[0155] The modules 108 for each level of the multilevel converter system 100 are aligned in separate rows along a second straight line 1204 perpendicular to a first straight line 1202. For example, the modules 108 may be aligned in separate rows parallel to the vertical line 1204. Lines 1202 and 1204 may be imaginary lines. The alignment of the modules 108 using lines does not need to be geometrically perfect, but should be close enough to facilitate efficient electrical connections between the modules 108. Advantageously, the modules 108 for each level may be located within a common cabinet or rack section 1201. For example, in the illustrated example, the first cabinet 1201-1 houses the first level module 108-1, the second cabinet 1201-2 houses the second level module 108-2, the third cabinet 1201-3 houses the third level module 108-3, and the Nth cabinet 1201-N houses the Nth level module 108-N. If additional module levels need to be added to provide more power or redundancy (or, conversely, if module levels need to be removed), this framework 1200 can be easily added (and reduced) to meet those needs by adding or removing cabinets 1201. The maximum number of cabinets 1201 is limited only by the practical spatial constraints of the framework 1200 and the operating parameters of the particular application.

[0156] Exemplary embodiments of a single cabinet or rack section 1201 are shown in Figures 12B and 12C. Figure 12D shows a framework 1200 of 13 cabinets or rack sections on the right, with the first three of the 13 shown in place with front panels, and the rest shown without front panels. Each cabinet or rack section 1201 may have a housing with panels on any number of sides, top, and / or bottom. In this embodiment, housings are present on all sides, top, and bottom (not shown). Preferably, panels or covers are present over high-voltage conductors for safety.

[0157] Figure 13A is a schematic diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of a framework 1200 with two adjacent levels of an N-level system, where one level is located within its own cabinet 1201-1 and the other level is located within the directly adjacent cabinet 1201-2. This pattern is repeated throughout the framework 1200, except that the end cabinets of each linear array of cabinets may have different or additional connections, as described below herein. Figure 13B is a schematic diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of an N-level system with at least two adjacent levels, where the last-preceding (N-1) level is located within the left cabinet 1201-(N-1) and the last (Nth) level is located within the right cabinet 1201-N. The components within the cabinets here are the same as those in Figure 13A, with different connections between the converters 202A within the end (e.g., last) cabinet 1201-N.

[0158] In this example, each module 108 includes a single energy source 206 coupled to a converter 202A, and a local control device (LCD) 114 integrated with the converter 202A. Embodiments can be modified to accommodate different converters (e.g., 202B, 202C) and additional energy sources (e.g., 206A and 206B). Each cabinet 1201 may consist of an existing container (e.g., a shelf, slot, or recess) for receiving each module 108.

[0159] Alternatively, the cabinet 1201 may comprise containers for independently receiving each component 202A, 206, and 114 of module 108 (e.g., a container for the energy source 206 of the first module, a container for the converter 202 of the first module, a container for the energy source 206 of the second module, etc.). In these embodiments, the term “module” encompasses multiple separate components that are electrically connected together to perform the function of one module, but there is no single enclosure dedicated to that module.

[0160] Each energy source 206 may consist of multiple types and configurations as described herein, for example with respect to Figures 4A-4F. Within each module 108, the LCD 114 communicates with a converter 202A network, an energy buffer 204 (not shown), and a monitor network 208 (not shown) associated with various components.

[0161] Within each phase, a converter 202 of one module 302 in the first cabinet 1201 is connected to at least one other horizontally aligned converter 202 in an adjacent cabinet 1201. Power connections within or between cabinets 1201 (e.g., between each energy source 206 and its converter 202, or between converters 202) are preferably implemented using robust connectors that minimize self-inductance, such as isolated busbars (e.g., laminated rigid bars with rectangular or other non-circular cross-sections). These bars can be securely fastened in place, as shown in Figures 13A and 13B. The horizontally aligned arrangement between coupled components allows for short, direct connections with respect to the bars, which further minimizes inductance, noise, and losses. In Figure 13A, the power connection is made across the front of the cabinet, but in other embodiments, the connection can be made directly between adjacent sides (for example, between the bottom of the energy source 206 and the top of the converter 202 of module 108, or from the right side of the converter 202 of module 108-1 to the left side of the converter 202 of module 108-2). Figure 13B shows cabinets 1201-(N-1) and 1201-N, where the converter output (IO4) in terminal cabinet 1201-N is connected together, as also depicted in Figures 11A, 11B, and 12A.

[0162] Data connections (e.g., between MCD112 and LCD114 or between LCD114s) are preferably high-speed bidirectional connections such as optical fibers, but other wired or wireless connections are also possible. In the example in Figure 13A, each LCD114 in phase or in the array is daisy-chained (as described in Figure 1A), and wired connections are indicated by communication (com) ports. In embodiments where the LCD114s are daisy-chained, master control signals can first be supplied to any module 108 in the array 700, as long as they are subsequently supplied to each module in the array 700. In one exemplary implementation, signals from MCD112 are input to the LCD114 of module 108-1 and then propagated to the remaining modules in that array 200(2-N). In the configuration in Figure 11B, only one bidirectional com port is required if separate connections exist between each LCD114 and MCD112. All signals (sensor information, M, Vref, etc.) can be exchanged via a single port and bus, or multiple ports and buses can be used.

[0163] The sides of each cabinet 1201 may have ports, openings, or other passages or connections to facilitate easy interconnection between cabinets. Alternatively, all or part of the side walls between adjacent or neighboring cabinets 1201 may be omitted to facilitate connection between cabinets. As used herein, “adjacent” means “adjacent or substantially adjacent without intervening barriers.”

[0164] In an alternative embodiment, the framework may include a backplane for carrying communication signals between the LCDs 114 of each array 700 and between the MCD 112 and each LCD 114 of all arrays 700. For example, each converter 202 (or LCD 114) may be configured to plug into or otherwise mate with a connector at the rear of its cabinet container, and the connector may be configured to couple with one or more buses of the backplane for carrying signals through the framework.

[0165] Figures 14A–14C are schematic diagrams depicting additional exemplary embodiments of module 108. Figure 14A shows module 108 in which two energy sources 206A and 206B are independently connected to converters 202B,C (Figures 6B–6C). Energy sources 206A and B are positioned on opposite sides of converters 202B,C to minimize induction between them. Converters 202B,C have two IO2 ports, which can be internally connected to the same potential (see, for example, Figures 6B, 6C). Figure 14B shows module 108 in which two energy sources 206A and 206B are connected in parallel to converter 202A. In both Figures 14A and 14B, LCD 114 is integrated with converter 202. LCD 114 can be integrated in a fixed or wired manner, or it can be a module of converter 202 that is removable and replaceable from its container within converter 202. Figure 14C shows module 108 in which LCD 114 is a separate component from converter 202. In all examples, module 108 can be implemented as follows: 1) as a single unit in which the energy source 206, converter 202, and LCD 114 are tightly integrated with the cabinet, such that the cabinet as a whole has one container for module 108; 2) with one or more containers for the energy source 206, converter 202, and LCD 114 within module 108, and the cabinet 1201 as a single unit having one container for module 108 as a whole; 3) in any combination of 1 and 2; or 4) in which the cabinet 1201 has containers for each component of the module (energy source 206, converter 202, and LCD 114, etc.), and there are no separate "modules" from any component itself.

[0166] Figure 15A is a block diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of a framework 1200 for a multilevel converter system 100, with an additional cabinet 1201-0 (cabinet 0) between the first cabinet 1201-1 and the grid and / or load 1505. Cabinet 1201-0 includes an interface network 1504 inserted between module 108 and the grid and / or load side 1505. The interface network 1504 may be any network required by the application, such as one or more filters, fuses, switches, or others. Phase A interface networks 1504-PA may be connected to phase A modules 108-1 to 108-N in their respective cabinets 1201-1 to 1201-N. Phase B interface networks 1504-PB may be connected to phase B modules 108-1 to 108-N in their respective cabinets 1201-1 to 1201-N. Similarly, the phase C interface network 1504-PC can be connected to modules 108-1 to 108-N within their respective cabinets 1201-1 to 1201-N. As described in relation to Figures 11A and 11B, each cabinet 1201 holds module 108 for independent levels of system 100 in all three phases.

[0167] On the opposite side of framework 1200, the last (terminal) cabinets 1201-(N+1) each contain three interconnection modules 108IC-1, 108IC-2, and 108IC-3, which can maintain energy balance between different phases coupled to terminal modules 108-N for each phase. Each framework 1200 may, depending on the application needs, include one cabinet 1201-0 dedicated to the interface network for each phase, and / or cabinets 1201-(N+1) containing interconnection modules 108IC.

[0168] Figure 15B is a block diagram depicting another exemplary embodiment of framework 1200, similarly including an additional cabinet 1201-0 (including an interface network 1504) between the first cabinet 1201-1 and the grid and / or load 1505. Framework 1200 has cabinet 1201-(N+1) which holds a first interconnection module 108IC-1 coupled to module 108-N of array 700-PA and array 700-PB. Cabinet 1201-(N+1) also holds module 108IC-2 coupled to module 108-N of array 700-PC. Modules 108IC-1 and 108IC-2 are coupled together in a manner similar to that described with respect to Figures 10D and 10E and are configured to maintain energy equilibrium between phase PA, PB, and PC (or multiple arrays 700) as described herein.

[0169] Figure 15C is a block diagram depicting another exemplary embodiment of the framework 1200, similarly including additional cabinets 1201-0 and 1201-(N+1). Cabinets 1201-(N+1) hold interconnection module 108IC, which is coupled to module 108-N of array 700-PA, PB, and PC. Module 108IC is similar to that described with respect to Figures 10A and 10B (but with three phases) and is configured to maintain energy equilibrium between phases PA, PB, and PC (or multiple arrays 700), as described herein. Depending on the number of sources 106 within module 108IC, module 108IC may have a size similar to that of other modules 108-1 to 108-N (without filling the internal volume of cabinet 108-(N+1) as shown here), or a larger size occupying a larger space within cabinet 1201-(N+1) (e.g., with three or more energy sources 206). Specific interconnections between modules are not shown in detail, but these embodiments in Figures 15A-15C can be configured in that respect and in other respects similar to those in Figures 13A-14C.

[0170] Figure 15D is a block diagram depicting another exemplary embodiment of framework 1200, having three arrays 700-PA, 700-PB, and 700-PC, each with six modules 108-1 to 108-6 for each array, plus an IC module 108IC. Framework 1200 can be configured to have a relatively large height and a relatively short length, as shown here, with each module 108 of array 700 occupying two (or more) rows, as opposed to one. Here, cabinet 1201-0 includes interface networks 1504 for each array and IC modules 108IC (e.g., the first and last modules of the array), and the IC modules are interconnected by connections 1522 (e.g., common coupling of port 3 and common coupling of port 4, as described with respect to Figure 10E). Cabinet 1201-1 contains the first module 108-1 and the sixth module 108-6 of each array, Cabinet 1201-2 contains the second module 108-2 and the fifth module 108-5 of each array, Cabinet 1201-3 contains the third module 108-3 and the fourth module 108-4 of each array, and they are connected together by connections 1520-PA, PB, and PC for arrays 700-PA, PB, and PC, respectively.

[0171] The modules 108 in each cabinet can be described as being arranged in an alternating manner. Thus, in this embodiment, each cabinet contains all modules from a specific level of each array (e.g., all modules 108-1) along with all modules from another level of the array (e.g., all modules 108-6). Here, each cabinet 1201 contains modules from two levels of each array. Other configurations can also be implemented so that each cabinet contains all modules from three, four, or more levels of the array, depending on the height of the modules and the available space. The presence of an interface network may occupy space that would otherwise be held by the modules, thereby causing most cabinets 1201 within the framework 1200 to hold all modules 108 from two or more levels, although each cabinet 1200 within the framework 1200 is not required to do so, as is the case with cabinet 1201-0 in this embodiment.

[0172] The frameworks 1200 described herein are configurable for the physical space or surrounding environment in which each is installed. Figures 16A–16G are block diagrams depicting exemplary embodiments of the framework 1200 for a system 100 with cabinets coupled to a grid and / or load 1601 through a grid / load-side interface network 1602 (e.g., one or more fuses, switches, transformers, or others). Figures 16A–16C show an example with 11 cabinets 1201, Figures 16D, 16E, and 16G show an example with 22 cabinets, and Figure 16F shows an example with 44 cabinets. In Figure 16A, the cabinets 1201 are arranged in a single row. In Figure 16B, the cabinets 1201 are arranged in two rows to fit into a smaller physical space 1611 (e.g., a bunker or narrow room). In Figure 6C, the cabinet 1201 is positioned with a bend to allow installation along two walls 1620 and 1621 in a narrow space. The framework 1200 can be positioned in any combination of one or more rows and / or one or more bends to allow customization to the limits of physical space.

[0173] Multiple frameworks can exist to enable a wide range of topological configurations. For example, Figure 16D shows an exemplary framework 1200 in which two 11 cabinet systems 1642, 1644 (for example, cabinet 1 may include an interface network (e.g., an inductive filter) and cabinet 2-11, and cabinet 2-11 includes 10 levels of a multilevel converter) are independently connected to a grid / load-side interface network 1602. Figure 16E shows another exemplary framework 1200 in which two 11 cabinet systems 1652, 1654 are connected in parallel, and the parallel arrangement is then connected to the grid / load-side interface network 1602. Figure 16F shows an exemplary framework 1200 in which two instances of the independent frameworks 1200-1 and 1200-2 from Figure 16D are connected to a grid / load 1601 through separate interface networks 1602, 1603. A similar configuration can be implemented with the parallel configuration shown in Figure 16E. Figure 16G shows a framework 1200 including two 11 cabinet systems 1672, 1674 coupled to a common node, which is then connected to a grid / load interface network 1602.

[0174] Figures 17A–17C are block diagrams depicting various configurations 1700 relating to the grid / load side (including grid 1706, load 1704, and their respective interface networks 1702, 1703, where interface networks 1702, 1703 may include isolation networks, transformer networks, safety networks, and others) and an arbitrary modular energy system 100 as described herein (optionally including its system-side interfaces configured and installed according to a framework 1200 as described herein). Figure 17A shows a configuration 1700 including a power grid 1706 and load 1704 and a combined grid / load interface 1702 inserted between them and the system 100. Figure 17B shows a configuration 1700 including a direct connection between load 1704 and the system 100 and a grid interface 1702 inserted between the power grid 1706 and the system 100. Figure 17C shows a configuration 1700 including a grid interface 1702 and a separate load interface 1704, the grid interface 1702 and the separate load interface 1704 being inserted between the power grid 1706 and load 1704 and the system 100, respectively.

[0175] Figure 18 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a method 800 for assembling an energy system 100 with modules 108 arranged at different levels, where each level of modules 108 serves a different phase or array of the system. Method 800 may, in 802, include assembling modules belonging to different levels of the energy system in each of a set of cabinets along an axis perpendicular to a reference plane, thereby aligning the modules along that axis, with each module for each phase located at a distance defined for the modules of that phase or array from the reference plane. Method 800 may, in 804, further include arranging the set of cabinets such that each cabinet is adjacent to another cabinet and equidistant from the reference plane.

[0176] The framework can consist of interconnection modules 108IC and interconnections between phases or arrays, such as through the delta and series configurations shown in Figures 7D-7E, although these interconnection configurations can still be used in conjunction with the embodiments described herein. This is because modules with interconnections are still in the phase of a row but are shared with one or more other phases or arrays. The framework offers advantages over delta and series configurations because the inter-array connections are between closely spaced modules, based on the embodiments described herein.

[0177] Various aspects of this subject matter are described below by reviewing and / or supplementing the embodiments described herein, where the interrelationships and interchangeability of the following embodiments are emphasized. In other words, unless otherwise explicitly stated or taught, the fact that each feature of an embodiment can be combined with any other feature is emphasized.

[0178] In many embodiments, a framework is provided for a multiphase energy system including modules arranged at different levels, the framework including an arrangement of cabinets, each cabinet holding modules belonging to different levels of the energy system along axes perpendicular to a reference plane such that the modules are aligned along axes and the modules for each phase are located at a defined distance from the reference plane for the modules of that phase, and the cabinets are adjacent to each other and equidistant from the reference plane.

[0179] In some embodiments, the arrangement minimizes the distance between connections between modules belonging to different levels for the same phase across multiple cabinets.

[0180] In some embodiments, each module contains the same submodules. The submodules are a framework that can be stored separately from each other.

[0181] In some embodiments, the axis is a vertical axis and the reference plane is horizontal.

[0182] In some embodiments, each module includes an energy source, a converter coupled to the energy source, and a locally controlled device communicatively coupled to control the converter. The framework may include a plurality of switches configured to select the module's output voltage under the control of the locally controlled device. The framework may include the locally controlled device and the converter being mounted together on a single printed circuit board. The framework may include the locally controlled device and the converter being housed in a common enclosure that does not house the energy source. The framework may include the locally controlled device, the energy source, and the converter being housed in a common enclosure that does not house another module. The framework may include a capacitor or a fuel cell as the energy source. The framework may include a battery as the energy source. The framework may further include a first capacitor in parallel with the battery. The framework may include a processor and memory, the memory of which, when executed by the processor, causes the locally controlled device to manage power transfers between the energy source and the module's cumulative load. The framework may further include a master control device for the modules of the energy system communicatively coupled to the locally controlled device. The framework may further include coupling between the master control device and each of the locally controlled devices of the system. The master control device may include a processor and memory communicatively coupled to the processor, the memory having a framework that, when executed by the processor, causes the master control device to coordinate the control activities of the energy system using each of the modules' local control devices. The framework may further include instructions for determining the output contribution of each module of the energy system.

[0183] In some embodiments, the energy system is configured for operation as a stationary energy system. A stationary energy system can be a framework that includes a residential storage system, an industrial storage system, a commercial storage system, a government storage system, a system that converts solar thermal power, wind power, geothermal energy, fossil fuels, or nuclear reactions into electricity for storage, a data center storage system, a grid, a microgrid, or a charging station.

[0184] In some embodiments, the energy system is configured to supply three-phase power.

[0185] In some embodiments, the module comprises N levels, each connected in series.

[0186] In some embodiments, the cabinet arrangement includes cabinets arranged in a single row, with outputs coupled to one or more loads or power grids.

[0187] In some embodiments, the cabinet arrangement includes cabinets arranged in a line coupled together to an output for coupling to one or more loads or power grids. The framework may further include an interface network inserted between the output and one or more loads or power grids. The framework may further include an interface network inserted between each line and the output relating to one or more loads or power grids. The interface network is a framework that can be coupled to both loads and power grids. The interface network is a framework that can be coupled to grids only, and loads only to outputs relating to loads. The interface network is a framework that may include a first module inserted only between the output and the grid, and a second module inserted only between the output and the load.

[0188] In some embodiments, the framework further includes terminal cabinets at the ends of the cabinet arrangement, each terminal cabinet including one or more interconnection modules for combining outputs from each level of the energy system into a single multiphase output. The framework may include an interconnection module for each phase in the terminal cabinet. The framework may include an interconnection module for receiving inputs for two or more phases in the terminal cabinet.

[0189] In many embodiments, the system includes multiple modules arranged in multiple arrays having multiple levels, the arrays configured to generate multiple AC power signals, each AC power signal having a different phase angle, and a framework for an energy system is provided, the framework includes an arrangement of multiple cabinets, each cabinet holding modules belonging to different levels of the energy system along a first axis, and the cabinets are arranged adjacent to each other along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis.

[0190] In some embodiments, the arrangement minimizes the distance between connections between modules belonging to different levels for the same phase across multiple cabinets.

[0191] In some embodiments, each module contains the same submodules. The submodules are a framework that can be stored separately from each other.

[0192] In some embodiments, the first axis is a vertical axis and the second axis is a horizontal axis.

[0193] In some embodiments, each module includes an energy source, a converter coupled to the energy source, and a local control device communicatively coupled to the converter and configured to control the converter. The framework may include a plurality of switches configured to select the output voltage of the module under the control of the local control device. The framework may house the local control device, energy source, and converter in a common enclosure that does not house any other modules. The framework may include a capacitor or a fuel cell as the energy source. The framework may include a battery as the energy source. The framework may further include a first capacitor in parallel with the battery. The framework may include a processor and memory, the memory of which, when executed by the processor, causes the local control device to manage power transfers between the energy source and the module's cumulative load. The framework may further include a master control device for the modules of the energy system communicatively coupled to the local control device. The framework may further include coupling between the master control device and each local control device of the system. The master control device may include a processor and memory communicatively coupled to the processor, the memory having a framework that, when executed by the processor, causes the master control device to coordinate the control activities of the energy system using each of the modules' local control devices. The framework may further include instructions for determining the output contribution of each module of the energy system.

[0194] In some embodiments, the energy system is configured for operation as a stationary energy system. A stationary energy system can be a framework that includes a residential storage system, an industrial storage system, a commercial storage system, a government storage system, a system that converts solar thermal power, wind power, geothermal energy, fossil fuels, or nuclear reactions into electricity for storage, a data center storage system, a grid, a microgrid, or a charging station.

[0195] In some embodiments, the energy system is configured to supply three-phase power.

[0196] In some embodiments, the array includes N levels, each connected in series.

[0197] In some embodiments, the cabinet arrangement includes cabinets arranged in a single row, with outputs coupled to one or more loads or power grids.

[0198] In some embodiments, the cabinet arrangement includes cabinets arranged in a line coupled together to an output for coupling to one or more loads or power grids. The framework may further include an interface network inserted between the output and one or more loads or power grids. The framework may further include an interface network inserted between each line and the output relating to one or more loads or power grids. The interface network is a framework that can be coupled to both loads and power grids. The interface network is a framework that can be coupled to grids only, and loads only to outputs relating to loads. The interface network is a framework that may include a first module inserted only between the output and the grid, and a second module inserted only between the output and the load.

[0199] In some embodiments, the framework may further include terminal cabinets at the ends of the cabinet arrangement, each terminal cabinet including one or more interconnection modules for combining outputs from each level of the energy system into a single multiphase output. The framework may include an interconnection module for each phase in the terminal cabinet. The framework may include an interconnection module for receiving inputs for two or more phases in the terminal cabinet.

[0200] In some embodiments, the array comprises a first array including a first plurality of modules configured to generate a first AC power signal having a first phase angle, each of the first plurality of modules corresponding to different levels of the energy system; a second array including a second plurality of modules configured to generate a second AC power signal having a second phase angle, each of the second plurality of modules corresponding to different levels of the energy system; and a third array including a third plurality of modules configured to generate a third AC power signal having a third phase angle, each of the third plurality of modules corresponding to different levels of the energy system. A first cabinet of a plurality of cabinets can hold a first module of the first plurality of modules, a second module of the second plurality of modules, and a third module of the third plurality of modules, where the first, second, and third modules are of the same level of the energy system. A framework in which multiple cabinets can be configured such that the first row of multiple cabinets holds only modules from the first array, the second row of multiple cabinets holds only modules from the second array, and the third row of multiple cabinets holds only modules from the third array. A framework in which multiple cabinets can be configured such that two cabinets do not hold modules from the same level of the energy system. A framework in which the first cabinet of multiple cabinets can hold the fourth module of the first multiple modules, the fifth module of the second multiple modules, and the sixth module of the third multiple modules, wherein the fourth, fifth, and sixth modules are at the same level of the energy system but at different levels from the first, second, and third modules.A framework in which a first set of modules can be located on the first and second rows of a set of cabinets, a second set of modules can be located on the third and fourth rows of a set of cabinets, and a third set of modules can be located on the fifth and sixth rows of a set of cabinets. The modules can be arranged within each cabinet so that the modules alternate between levels.

[0201] In many embodiments, a method for assembling an energy system includes modules arranged at levels, with different modules at each level serving different phases of the system, and the method includes assembling modules belonging to different levels of the energy system in each set of cabinets along an axis perpendicular to a reference plane such that the modules are aligned along an axis and the module for each phase is located at a defined distance from the reference plane for the module of that phase, and arranging the set of cabinets such that each is adjacent to another and equidistant from the reference plane.

[0202] Those skilled in the art will understand that, when the term is used herein, “module” refers to a device or subsystem within a larger system, and that the system does not need to be configured such that each individual module is physically removable and interchangeable with respect to other modules. For example, the system may be housed in a common enclosure that does not allow for the removal and replacement of any one module without disassembling the system as a whole. However, in all embodiments herein, each module may be configured to be removable and interchangeable with respect to other modules in a convenient manner, such as without disassembling the system.

[0203] The term "master control device" is used broadly herein and does not require the implementation of any specific protocol, such as a master-slave relationship with any other device, such as a local control device.

[0204] The term "output" is used broadly herein and does not exclude the functioning in a bidirectional manner as both an output and an input. Similarly, the term "input" is used broadly herein and does not exclude the functioning in a bidirectional manner as both an input and an output.

[0205] The terms “terminal” and “port” are used herein in a broad sense and may be either unidirectional or bidirectional, may be an input or output, and do not require any specific physical or mechanical structure such as a female or male configuration.

[0206] The term "framework" refers to a group of structures, such as cabinets and racks, for holding electronic components, which are fixed to a reference plane (e.g., the floor of a building or ship) of a larger structure organized into an assembly or arrangement, and modules are interconnected across different cabinets, racks, and other structures within the framework.

[0207] Different reference numbering conventions are used herein. These conventions are used to facilitate the description of the subject matter and do not limit its scope. Generally, a genus of an element is referred to using a number, e.g., "123", and its subgenus is referred to using a letter appended to the number, e.g., 123A or 123B. A reference to a genus without an appended letter (e.g., 123) refers to the genus as a whole, including all subgenus. Some figures show multiple instances of the same element. These elements may be numbered or appended with a letter in the "-X" format (e.g., 123-1, 123-2, or 123-PA). This -X format does not imply that the element must be constructed identically in each instance, but rather is used to facilitate distinction when referring to the element in the figure. A reference to genus 123 without the -X appended letter broadly refers to all instances of the element within the genus.

[0208] Various aspects of this subject matter are described below, building upon and / or supplementing the embodiments described herein, with emphasis placed on the interrelationships and interchangeability of the following embodiments. In other words, it is emphasized that, unless otherwise explicitly stated or unless logically impractical, each feature of an embodiment can be combined with any other feature.

[0209] In many of the embodiments described above, the module-based energy system is configured to operate as a stationary energy system. In many of these embodiments, the stationary energy system is one of the following: a residential system, an industrial system, a commercial system, a data center storage system, a grid, a microgrid, or a charging station.

[0210] A processing network may include one or more processors, microprocessors, controllers, and / or microcontrollers, each of which may be a separate or independent chip, or distributed among several different chips (and parts thereof). Any type of processing network may be implemented, but is not limited to, personal computing architectures (such as those used in desktop PCs, laptops, tablets, etc.), programmable gate array architectures, dedicated architectures, custom architectures, and others. A processing network may include digital signal processors, which may be implemented in hardware and / or software. A processing network may execute software instructions stored in memory, causing the network to host different actions and control other components.

[0211] The processing circuit network can also implement other software and / or hardware routines. For example, the processing circuit network can interface with a communication circuit network to carry out analog-to-digital conversion, encoding and decoding, other digital signal processing, multimedia functions, the conversion of data into a form suitable for providing to the communication circuit network (e.g., in-phase and quadrature phase), and / or cause data to be transmitted (wired or wirelessly) to the communication circuit network.

[0212] Any signal described herein can be communicated wirelessly, unless noted otherwise or logically unrealistic. A communication circuit network can be included for wireless communication. The communication circuit network can be implemented as one or more chips and / or components (e.g., transmitters, receivers, transceivers, and / or other communication circuit networks) that perform wireless communication via a link under an appropriate protocol (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, Bluetooth® Low Energy, Near Field Communication (NFC), Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), proprietary protocols, and others). One or more other antennas can be included with the communication circuit network as needed to operate with various protocols and circuits. In some embodiments, the communication circuit network can share an antenna for transmission via the link. The processing circuit network can also interface with the communication circuit network to perform the inverse functions necessary to receive a wireless transmission and convert it into digital data, audio, and / or video. The RF communication circuit network can include a transmitter and a receiver (e.g., integrated as a transceiver) and associated encoder logic.

[0213] The processing circuit network can also be adapted to execute an operating system and any software applications and perform those other functions not related to the processing of transmitted and received communications.

[0214] Computer program instructions for performing operations in accordance with the described subject matter may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including object-oriented programming languages such as Java®, JavaScript, Smalltalk, C++, C#, Transact-SQL, XML, PHP, and conventional procedural programming languages such as the "C" programming language or similar programming languages.

[0215] Memory, storage, and / or computer-readable media can be shared by one or more of the various functional units that exist, or can be distributed among two or more of them (e.g., as separate memories existing in different chips). The memory can also reside in its own separate chip.

[0216] To the extent that embodiments disclosed herein include, or operate in relation to, a memory, storage device, and / or a computer-readable medium, such memory, storage device, and / or computer-readable medium are non-transient. Therefore, to the extent that such memory, storage device, and / or computer-readable medium are encompassed by one or more claims, such memory, storage device, and / or computer-readable medium are non-transient only. The terms “non-transient” and “tangible” as used herein are intended to describe a memory, storage device, and / or computer-readable medium, excluding propagating electromagnetic signals, but are not intended to limit the types of memory, storage device, and / or computer-readable medium in terms of storage persistence or otherwise. For example, “non-transient” and / or “tangible” memory, storage devices, and / or computer-readable media include volatile and non-volatile media such as random-access media (e.g., RAM, SRAM, DRAM, FRAM®, etc.), read-only media (e.g., ROM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, flash, etc.), and combinations thereof (e.g., hybrid RAM and ROM, NVRAM, etc.), and variations thereof.

[0217] It should be noted that all features, elements, components, functions, and steps described in relation to any embodiment provided herein are intended to be freely combined and substituted with those from any other embodiment. If a feature, element, component, function, or step is described in relation to only one embodiment, it should be understood that that feature, element, component, function, or step may be used with all other embodiments described herein unless otherwise expressly stated. This paragraph therefore serves as a premise and descriptive aid for introducing claims, which at any point may combine features, elements, components, functions, and steps from different embodiments, or replace features, elements, components, functions, and steps from one embodiment with those from another embodiment, even if the following description does not explicitly state that such combinations or substitutions are possible in particular cases. In particular, it is explicitly confirmed that an explicit enumeration of all possible combinations and substitutions would be excessive, given that the permissibility of any such combinations and substitutions will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0218] As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural nouns unless the context clearly determines otherwise.

[0219] The embodiments may be subject to various modifications and alternative forms, specific examples of which are shown in the drawings and described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that these embodiments are not limited to any particular form disclosed, but rather encompass all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the spirit of this disclosure. Furthermore, any negative limitations defining the scope of any feature, function, step, or element of an embodiment, and any feature, function, step, or element that falls outside the scope of the claimed invention, may be enumerated or added to the claims.

Claims

1. A framework for a multiphase energy system, wherein the framework is The system comprises multiple modules arranged in multiple cabinets, each module comprising an energy source configured to output a DC voltage (DC), a converter coupled to the energy source, and a local control device, the local control device being configured to control the converter to output a module voltage selected from the group comprising +DC, zero volts, and -DC. The plurality of modules are connected as a plurality of arrays such that each array is configured to output AC signals having different phase angles, the modules within each array are connected as levels of that array, and each cabinet holds the modules belonging to at least one of the same levels of different arrays. Each cabinet is stacked along an axis perpendicular to the reference plane, thereby aligning the modules along the direction of the axis. A framework in which, with respect to at least two adjacent arrays, the modules are stacked in array order within each cabinet such that the modules of the same level in different arrays are aligned parallel to the reference plane at the same common distance from the reference plane.

2. The framework according to claim 1, wherein each of the modules comprises a submodule.

3. The framework according to claim 2, wherein the submodules are stored separately from each other.

4. The framework according to claim 3, wherein each of the modules comprises the energy source housed in a first submodule and the converter and local control device housed in a second submodule.

5. The framework according to claim 1, wherein the axis is a vertical axis and the reference plane is horizontal.

6. The framework according to claim 1, wherein the energy source comprises a battery module, a high energy density (HED) capacitor, or a fuel cell.

7. The framework according to claim 1, wherein the local control device comprises a processor and a memory, the memory comprising instructions, the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the local control device to manage the power transfer between the energy source and the cumulative load of the module.

8. The framework according to claim 1, further comprising a master control device that is communicably coupled to the local control devices of the plurality of modules.

9. The framework according to claim 8, wherein the master control device comprises a processor and a memory communicably coupled to the processor, the memory comprising instructions, which, when executed by the processor, cause the master control device to coordinate the control activities of the energy system using each of the local control devices of the module.

10. The framework according to claim 8, wherein the master control device is configured to determine the energy contribution to the output for each of the plurality of modules such that at least one of the state of charge (SOC) and temperature of the energy source is in equilibrium across the plurality of modules.

11. The framework according to claim 1, wherein the energy system is configured for operation as a stationary energy system.

12. The framework according to claim 11, wherein the stationary energy system is one of the following: a residential storage system, an industrial storage system, a commercial storage system, a government storage system, a system that converts solar thermal power, wind power, geothermal energy, fossil fuels, or nuclear reactions into electricity for storage, a data center storage system, a grid, a microgrid, or a charging station.

13. The framework according to claim 1, wherein the energy system is configured to supply three-phase power.

14. The framework according to claim 1, wherein the module comprises N levels, each connected in series.

15. The framework according to claim 1, wherein the arrangement of the cabinets comprises cabinets arranged in a single row having outputs coupled to one or more loads or power grids.

16. The framework according to claim 1, wherein the multiphase energy system is configured to output multiphase power to one or more loads or power grids.

17. The framework according to claim 15, wherein the multiphase energy system is configured to receive multiphase power from the power grid.

18. The framework according to claim 16, further comprising an interface network inserted between the system output of the energy system and one or more of the loads or the power grid.

19. The framework according to claim 1, further comprising end cabinets at the ends of the arrangement of cabinets, the end cabinets comprising one or more interconnection modules configured to exchange energy between arrays.

20. The framework according to claim 19, wherein the terminal cabinet comprises interconnection modules for each phase.

21. The framework according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of cabinets are configured such that no two cabinets hold modules from the same level of the energy system.

22. The framework according to claim 1, wherein the first cabinet among the plurality of cabinets holds a first module at the first level of the first array among the plurality of arrays, a second module at the first level of the second array among the plurality of arrays, and a third module at the first level of the third array among the plurality of arrays.

23. The framework according to claim 22, wherein the first cabinet further holds a first module at the Nth level of the first array among the plurality of arrays, a fifth module at the Nth level of the second array among the plurality of arrays, and a sixth module at the Nth level of the third array among the plurality of arrays.

24. A method for assembling an energy system, the energy system comprising a plurality of modules, the plurality of modules being connected as a plurality of arrays such that each array is configured to output AC signals having different phase angles, the modules within each array being connected as levels of the array, the method is In each set of cabinets, the modules are assembled to belong to at least one of the same levels of different arrays, such that each cabinet is stacked along an axis perpendicular to a reference plane, thereby aligning the modules along the direction of the axis. With respect to at least two adjacent arrays, the modules are stacked in the order of the arrays within each cabinet such that the modules at the same level of different arrays are aligned parallel to the reference plane at the same common distance from the reference plane. Methods that include...

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