Systems, devices, and methods for modular cascaded energy systems configured to interface with renewable energy sources.

Abstract

Exemplary embodiments of systems, devices, and methods are provided herein for an energy system having multiple modules arranged in a cascaded manner to store power from one or more photovoltaic power sources. Each module includes an energy source and converter circuitry that selectively couples the energy source to other modules in the system via an AC interface to generate AC power or to receive and store power from a charging source. Each module also includes a DC interface to receive power from one or more photovoltaic power sources. Each module can be controlled by a control system to route power from the photovoltaic power sources to its module energy source or AC interface. The energy system can be arranged in single-phase or multi-phase topologies with multiple series or interconnected arrays.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (Cross-reference of related applications) This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 219,021 filed on 7 July 2021, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 227,646 filed on 30 July 2021, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 243,061 filed on 10 September 2021, all of which are incorporated herein by reference as a whole for all purposes.

[0002] (Field) The subject matter described herein generally relates to systems, devices, and methods for modular, cascaded energy systems configured to interface with renewable energy sources. [Background technology]

[0003] The desired surge in energy utilization in photovoltaic and renewable energy sources is leading to the integration of these sources into a wide variety of applications and locations. The performance of photovoltaic sources can vary significantly based on design, service life, usage, and environment. Photovoltaic sources require periodic upgrades and / or supplements to maximize their efficiency. Energy systems that interface with photovoltaic sources and utilize energy from them are typically not easily scaled and / or modified to handle the constantly changing power capacity of photovoltaic sources in use worldwide.

[0004] For these and other reasons, there is a need for improved systems, devices, and methods for module-based cascaded energy systems that interface with photovoltaic energy sources. [Overview of the project] [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] Exemplary embodiments of systems, devices, and methods for an energy system having multiple modules arranged in a cascaded manner to store power from one or more renewable energy sources, such as one or more photovoltaic power sources. Each module includes an energy source and a converter network for selectively coupling the energy source to other modules in the system to generate AC power via an AC interface, or to receive power from a charging source and store it. Each module also includes a DC interface for receiving power from one or more photovoltaic power sources. Each module can be controlled by a control system to route power from the photovoltaic power sources to its energy source or AC interface. The energy system can be arranged in a single-phase or multi-phase topology using multiple series or interconnected arrays. The energy system can be arranged such that each module receives power from the same single or multiple photovoltaic power sources.

[0006] Each module may also include a DC interface for receiving power from other energy sources, such as fuel cells. A multiphase topology can be configured to receive multiphase AC power from renewable energy sources such as wind turbines. An energy system may include multiple instances of an array of modules for connection to multiple AC sources, such as wind turbines and the power grid. Modules in multiple instances of an array can be coupled together, for example in a daisy-chain configuration, at their DC interfaces, so that the modules can exchange or transfer energy.

[0007] Other systems, devices, methods, features, and advantages of the subject matter described in this specification will be apparent to those skilled in the art or will become apparent upon consideration of the following figures and detailed description. All such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages are included within this description, are within the scope of the subject matter described in this specification, and are intended to be protected by the accompanying claims. The features of the exemplary embodiments should not be construed as in any way limiting the appended claims if there is no clear recitation of those features in the claims. The present invention provides, for example, the following: (Item 1) An energy storage system comprising a plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner to form an array, wherein the array is configured to output an AC signal comprising a superposition of AC module voltages from the plurality of converter modules. Each of the aforementioned plurality of converter modules is A DC-DC converter configured to be electrically coupled to a photovoltaic (PV) source and to convert a first DC voltage from the PV source to a second DC voltage, An energy buffer electrically coupled to the DC-DC converter, An energy source electrically coupled to the DC-DC converter and the DC-AC converter, A power connection configured to output the AC module voltage of the module, wherein the DC-AC converter is configured to convert the input DC voltage to the AC module voltage, and the power connection A local control device configured to route energy from the PV source to the energy source and / or the power connection by controlling the DC-DC converter and the DC-AC converter, An energy storage system equipped with [these features]. (Item 2) The energy storage system according to item 1, wherein the DC-DC converter comprises a first DC-AC converter electrically connected to a transformer and a diode rectifier electrically coupled to the transformer. (Item 3) ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ The energy storage system described in item 7, wherein the first PV source, the second PV source, and the third PV source are different PV sources. (Item 10) Each of the first plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source. Each of the second set of converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source. The energy storage system described in item 7, wherein each of the third of the multiple converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source. (Item 11) Each of the first plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the same PV source. Each of the second set of converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source. The energy storage system described in item 7, wherein each of the third of the multiple converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source. (Item 12) The DC-DC converters of the converter modules in each array are connected in a daisy-chain configuration in the energy storage system according to any of items 7-11. (Item 13) The first array, the second array, and the third array form a first instance of an array, and the system comprises a second instance of an array. The second example described above is, A fourth array comprising a fourth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner, wherein the fourth array is configured to output a fourth AC signal comprising a superposition of AC module voltages from the fourth plurality of converter modules, A fifth array comprising a fifth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner, wherein the fifth array is configured to output a fifth AC signal comprising a superposition of AC module voltages from the fifth plurality of converter modules, A sixth array comprising a sixth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner, wherein the sixth array is configured to output a sixth AC signal comprising a superposition of AC module voltages from the sixth plurality of converter modules, and An energy storage system as described in item 7, which includes the features described in item 7. (Item 14) The energy storage system according to item 13, wherein the power connections of the first converter module, each of the first of the first of the first of the multiple converter modules, the second of the multiple converter modules, and the third of the multiple converter modules, are electrically coupled to a wind power source. (Item 15) The energy storage system according to item 14, wherein the power connections of the first converter module, each of the first of the first of the first of the multiple converter modules, the second of the multiple converter modules, and the third of the multiple converter modules, are electrically coupled to an AC bus. (Item 16) The AC bus is electrically coupled to the power grid, as described in item 15. (Item 17) The DC-DC converters of the converter modules among the first plurality of converter modules, the second plurality of converter modules, and the third plurality of converter modules are connected in a first daisy-chain configuration. The DC-DC converters of the converter modules among the fourth, fifth, and sixth converter modules are connected in a second daisy-chain configuration. An energy storage system according to any one of items 13-16, wherein the first daisy-chain arrangement of the DC-DC converters is in parallel with the second daisy-chain arrangement of the DC-DC converters. (Item 18) The DC-AC converter in each converter module is a first DC-AC converter. The power connection of each converter module is the first converter module, Each converter module comprises a second DC-AC converter and a second power connection, as described in any of items 7-12 of the energy storage system. (Item 19) (i) The first power connection of the first converter module among the first plurality of converter modules, (ii) the second plurality of converter modules, and (iii) the third plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the wind power source. The energy storage system according to item 18, wherein the second power connection of the first converter module, each of the first of the first of the first of the first of the third of the converter modules, (ii) the second of the second of the third of the third of the converter modules, is electrically coupled to an AC bus. (Item 20) The first array, the second array, and the third array form a first instance of an array, and the system comprises a second instance of an array. The second example described above is, A fourth array comprising a fourth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner, wherein the fourth array is configured to output a fourth AC signal comprising a superposition of AC module voltages from the fourth plurality of converter modules, A fifth array comprising a fifth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner, wherein the fifth array is configured to output a fifth AC signal comprising a superposition of AC module voltages from the fifth plurality of converter modules, A sixth array comprising a sixth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner, wherein the sixth array is configured to output a sixth AC signal comprising a superposition of AC module voltages from the sixth plurality of converter modules, and An energy storage system as described in item 19, which includes the following features. (Item 21) (i) The first power connection of the first converter module among the fourth plurality of converter modules, (ii) the fifth plurality of converter modules, and (iii) the sixth plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the wind power source. The energy storage system according to item 20, wherein the second power connection of the first converter module among each of the (i) fourth plurality of converter modules, (ii) fifth plurality of converter modules, and (iii) sixth plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the AC bus. (Item 22) The wind power source is the first wind power source, The aforementioned AC bus is a first AC bus, (i) The first power connection of the first converter module among the fourth plurality of converter modules, (ii) the fifth plurality of converter modules, and (iii) the sixth plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the second wind power source. The energy storage system according to item 20, wherein the second power connection of the first converter module among each of the (i) fourth plurality of converter modules, (ii) fifth plurality of converter modules, and (iii) sixth plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to a second AC bus. (Item 23) The DC-DC converters of the converter modules among the first plurality of converter modules, the second plurality of converter modules, and the third plurality of converter modules are connected in a first daisy-chain configuration. The DC-DC converters of the converter modules among the fourth, fifth, and sixth converter modules are connected in a second daisy-chain configuration. The energy storage system according to any one of items 20-22, wherein the first daisy-chain arrangement of the DC-DC converters is in parallel with the second daisy-chain arrangement of the DC-DC converters. (Item 24) The energy storage system according to any of the preceding items, further comprising a master control device that is communicatively coupled to the local control device of the converter module. (Item 25) An energy storage system, wherein the energy storage system is It comprises a plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascade manner to form an array, and the array is configured to output an AC signal comprising the superposition of AC module voltages from the plurality of converter modules. Each of the aforementioned plurality of converter modules is Transformer and, A power connection configured to output AC module voltage, A first DC-AC converter configured to be electrically coupled to a photovoltaic (PV) source and a transformer, wherein the first DC-AC converter is configured to convert a first DC voltage from the PV source into a first AC voltage for application to the transformer, A first AC-DC converter electrically coupled to the transformer and configured to convert a second AC voltage from the transformer into a second DC voltage for a second DC-AC converter, A second DC-AC converter configured to be electrically coupled with the first AC-DC converter and the power connection, and configured to convert the second DC voltage to the AC module voltage, Energy buffer and Energy source, A second AC-DC converter, electrically coupled to the transformer and configured to convert a third AC voltage from the transformer into a third DC voltage for application to the energy buffer and the energy source, A local control device configured to route energy from the PV source to the energy source and / or the power connection by controlling the first and second DC-AC converters and the first and second AC-DC converters, An energy storage system equipped with [these features]. (Item 26) The energy storage system according to item 25, wherein each of the plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the same PV source via a DC bus. (Item 27) The energy storage system according to item 25, wherein each of the plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source. (Item 28) An energy storage system according to any of items 25-27, comprising a third DC-AC converter electrically coupled to the transformer and configured to convert a fourth DC voltage from a fuel cell into a fourth AC voltage for application to the transformer. (Item 29) An energy storage system according to any of items 25-28, comprising a fourth DC-AC converter electrically coupled to the transformer and configured to convert a fifth AC voltage from the transformer into a fifth DC voltage for application to a DC bus. (Item 30) An energy system according to any of items 25-29, comprising a third AC-DC converter electrically coupled to the transformer and configured to convert a sixth AC voltage from the transformer to a sixth DC voltage for a fifth DC-AC converter, wherein the fifth DC-AC converter is configured to electrically coupled to the third AC-DC converter and a second power connection and is configured to convert the sixth DC voltage to a seventh AC voltage. (Item 31) An energy storage system according to any one of items 25-30, wherein the array is a first array, the AC signal is a first AC signal, the plurality of converter modules are a first plurality of converter modules, the system comprises a second array having a second plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner, and the second array is configured to output a second AC signal having a superposition of AC module voltages from the second plurality of converter modules. (Item 32) The array is a first array, the AC signal is a first AC signal, the plurality of converter modules are a first plurality of converter modules, and the system is A second array comprising a second plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner, wherein the second array is configured to output a second AC signal comprising a superposition of AC module voltages from the second plurality of converter modules, A third array comprising a third plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner, wherein the third array is configured to output a third AC signal comprising a superposition of AC module voltages from the third plurality of converter modules, and An energy storage system as described in any of items 25-30, comprising: (Item 33) The energy storage system according to item 32, wherein each of the first plurality of converter modules, the second plurality of converter modules, and the third plurality of converter modules is coupled to the same PV source. (Item 34) The PV source of each converter module in the first plurality of converter modules is the first PV source, each converter module in the second plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the second PV source, and each converter module in the third plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the third PV source. The energy storage system according to item 32, wherein the first PV source, the second PV source, and the third PV source are different PV sources. (Item 35) Each of the first plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source. Each of the second set of converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source. The energy storage system according to item 32, wherein each of the third of the multiple converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source. (Item 36) Each of the first plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the same PV source. Each of the second set of converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source. The energy storage system according to item 32, wherein each of the third of the multiple converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source. (Item 37) Each converter module comprises a fourth AC-DC converter configured to be electrically coupled to a DC bus and the transformer, the fourth AC-DC converter configured to convert an eighth AC voltage from the transformer to a seventh DC voltage for the DC bus, as described in any of items 32-36 of the energy storage system. (Item 38) The energy storage system described in item 37, wherein the fourth AC-DC converters of each array's converter module are connected in a daisy-chain configuration. (Item 39) The first array, the second array, and the third array form a first instance of the array, and the system comprises a second instance of the array, the second instance being, A fourth array comprising a fourth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner, wherein the fourth array is configured to output a fourth AC signal comprising a superposition of AC module voltages from the fourth plurality of converter modules, A fifth array comprising a fifth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner, wherein the fifth array is configured to output a fifth AC signal comprising a superposition of AC module voltages from the fifth plurality of converter modules, A sixth array comprising a sixth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner, wherein the sixth array is configured to output a sixth AC signal comprising a superposition of AC module voltages from the sixth plurality of converter modules, and An energy storage system as described in item 32, which includes the features described therein. (Item 40) The energy storage system according to item 39, wherein the power connections of the first converter module, each of the first of the first of the first of the multiple converter modules, the second of the multiple converter modules, and the third of the multiple converter modules, are electrically coupled to a wind power source. (Item 41) The energy storage system according to item 40, wherein the power connections of the first converter module, each of the first of the first of the first of the multiple converter modules, (ii) the multiple of the second of the multiple converter modules, and (iii) the multiple of the third of the multiple converter modules, are electrically coupled to an AC bus. (Item 42) The AC bus is electrically coupled to the power grid, as described in item 41. (Item 43) Each converter module comprises a fourth AC-DC converter configured to be electrically coupled to the DC bus and the transformer, the fourth AC-DC converter being configured to convert an eighth AC voltage from the transformer to a seventh DC voltage for the DC bus. The fourth AC-DC converter of the converter module among the first plurality of converter modules, the second plurality of converter modules, and the third plurality of converter modules is connected in a first daisy-chain configuration. The fourth AC-DC converter of the converter module among the fourth, fifth, and sixth converter modules is connected in a second daisy-chain configuration. The energy storage system according to any of items 40-42, wherein the first daisy-chain arrangement of the fourth AC-DC converter is in parallel with the second daisy-chain arrangement of the fourth AC-DC converter. (Item 44) An energy storage system according to any of items 32-38, wherein the power connection of each converter module is a first power connection, and the system comprises a third AC-DC converter configured to be electrically coupled with the transformer and to convert a sixth AC voltage from the transformer to a sixth DC voltage for a fifth DC-AC converter, the fifth DC-AC converter configured to be electrically coupled with the third AC-DC converter and the second power connection and to convert the sixth DC voltage to a seventh AC voltage. (Item 45) (i) The first power connection of the first converter module among the first plurality of converter modules, (ii) the second plurality of converter modules, and (iii) the third plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the wind power source. The energy storage system according to item 44, wherein the second power connection of the first converter module, each of the first of the first of the first of the first of the third of the converter modules, (ii) the second of the second of the third of the third of the converter modules, is electrically coupled to an AC bus. (Item 46) The first array, the second array, and the third array form a first instance of an array, and the system comprises a second instance of an array. The second example described above is, A fourth array comprising a fourth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner, wherein the fourth array is configured to output a fourth AC signal comprising a superposition of AC module voltages from the fourth plurality of converter modules, A fifth array comprising a fifth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner, wherein the fifth array is configured to output a fifth AC signal comprising a superposition of AC module voltages from the fifth plurality of converter modules, A sixth array comprising a sixth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner, wherein the sixth array is configured to output a sixth AC signal comprising a superposition of AC module voltages from the sixth plurality of converter modules, and An energy storage system as described in item 45, which includes the features described in item 45. (Item 47) (i) The first power connection of the first converter module among the fourth plurality of converter modules, (ii) the fifth plurality of converter modules, and (iii) the sixth plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the wind power source. The energy storage system according to item 46, wherein the second power connection of the first converter module among each of the (i) fourth plurality of converter modules, (ii) fifth plurality of converter modules, and (iii) sixth plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the AC bus. (Item 48) The wind power source is the first wind power source, The aforementioned AC bus is a first AC bus, (i) The first power connection of the first converter module among the fourth plurality of converter modules, (ii) the fifth plurality of converter modules, and (iii) the sixth plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the second wind power source. The energy storage system according to item 46, wherein the second power connection of the first converter module among each of the (i) fourth plurality of converter modules, (ii) fifth plurality of converter modules, and (iii) sixth plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to a second AC bus. (Item 49) The DC-DC converters of the converter modules among the first plurality of converter modules, the second plurality of converter modules, and the third plurality of converter modules are connected in a first daisy-chain configuration. The DC-DC converters of the converter modules among the fourth, fifth, and sixth converter modules are connected in a second daisy-chain configuration. The energy storage system according to any one of items 46-48, wherein the first daisy-chain arrangement of the DC-DC converters is in parallel with the second daisy-chain arrangement of the DC-DC converters. (Item 50) The energy storage system according to any of items 25-49, further comprising a master control device communicatively coupled to the local control device of the converter module. (Item 51) A framework structure for a multiphase energy system, wherein the framework structure is The system comprises multiple modules arranged in multiple cabinets, each module having a DC interface and an AC interface, 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 configured to control the converter to output a module voltage selected from the group consisting of +DC, zero volts, and -DC from the AC interface. 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 the level of the array such that the AC signal output by the array is a superposition of the module voltages from each module in the array. Each cabinet holds the modules belonging to at least one of the same levels of different arrays arranged along an axis perpendicular to a reference plane, thereby the modules at at least one of the same levels are aligned along the axis. With respect to at least two adjacent levels of the array, the modules are arranged in an array order such that modules of the same array are aligned parallel to the reference plane at the same common distance from the reference plane. The DC interface of each module is electrically coupled to the DC interface of at least one other module via a first connector routed along the first side of the plurality of cabinets. A frame structure in which the AC interface of each module is electrically coupled to the AC interface of at least one other module via a second connector routed along the second side of the plurality of cabinets. (Item 52) The first side is opposite to the second side, the framework structure as described in item 51. (Item 53) The first side is the framing structure described in item 51, perpendicular to the second side. (Item 54) A framework structure as described in any of items 51-53, wherein the energy source for each module is a first energy source, and each module is equipped with a second energy source. (Item 55) The framework structure according to item 54, wherein the first energy source is electrically coupled to the module via a third and a fourth connector, and the second energy source is electrically connected to the module via a fifth and a sixth connector. (Item 56) The frame structure according to item 55, wherein the third connector is routed along the first side of the cabinet and the fourth connector is routed along the second side of the cabinet. (Item 57) The frame structure according to item 56, wherein the sixth connector is routed within the cabinet along the first side of the cabinet, and the seventh connector is routed within the cabinet along the second side of the cabinet. (Item 58) The energy source comprises a battery module, a high-energy-density (HED) capacitor, or a fuel cell, as described in any of items 51-57. (Item 59) The DC interface of at least one module is electrically coupled to a photovoltaic (PV) source, the framework structure as described in any of items 51-58. (Item 60) The DC interface of at least one module is electrically coupled to a DC bus, as described in any of items 51-59. (Item 61) The DC interface of at least one module is electrically coupled to the fuel cell, the framework structure according to any one of items 51-60. (Item 62) The AC interface of at least one module of each phase is electrically coupled to a wind power source, as described in any of items 51-61. (Item 63) The AC interface of at least one module of each phase is electrically coupled to an AC bus, as described in any of items 51-62. (Item 64) Each module has a frame structure as described in any of items 51-63, with multiple AC interfaces. (Item 65) Each module has a frame structure as described in any of items 51-64, with multiple DC interfaces. (Item 66) The DC interface of the module is connected in a daisy-chain configuration to a frame structure as described in any of items 51-65. (Item 67) An energy storage system, wherein the energy storage system is An energy storage system comprising a plurality of modules electrically connected together in a cascade manner to provide energy for a load or a power grid, or to receive energy from a load or a power grid, each module having an energy source and a network of switches for selectively connecting the energy source to other modules of the system, wherein at least one of the energy sources in the modules is a second-life energy source. (Item 68) All of the energy sources of the aforementioned system are second-life energy sources, as described in item 67, for the energy storage system. (Item 69) The energy storage system described in item 67, wherein all of the energy sources of the system are either first-life energy sources or second-life energy sources. (Item 70) An energy storage system as described in any of items 67-69, wherein all of the energy sources of the aforementioned system are batteries. (Item 71) The energy storage system described in any of items 67-70, wherein the energy source varies in energy capacity by 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more, 30% or more, 5-30%, 10-30%, and / or 20-30%. (Item 72) An energy storage system according to any of items 67-71, wherein the energy source varies in energy capacity / mass density by 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more, 30% or more, 5-30%, 10-30%, and / or 20-30%. (Item 73) An energy storage system according to any of items 67-72, wherein the energy source varies in peak power / mass density by 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more, 30% or more, 5-30%, 10-30%, and / or 20-30%. (Item 74) The energy storage system described in any of items 67-73, wherein the energy source varies in nominal voltage by 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more, 30% or more, 5-30%, 10-30%, and / or 20-30%. (Item 75) The energy storage system described in any of items 67-74, wherein the energy source varies in the operating voltage range by 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more, 30% or more, 5-30%, 10-30%, and / or 20-30%. (Item 76) An energy storage system according to any of items 67-75, wherein the energy source varies by 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more, 30% or more, 5-30%, 10-30%, and / or 20-30% during the maximum specified current rise time. (Item 77) The energy storage system described in any of items 67-76, wherein the energy source varies in a specified peak current of 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more, 30% or more, 5-30%, 10-30%, and / or 20-30%. (Item 78) The energy source is an energy storage system according to any one of items 67-77, which varies in its electrochemical type. (Item 79) The energy storage system is a static energy storage system, and the energy source is an energy source after use in transit, as described in any of items 67-78. (Item 80) The energy storage system is a mobile energy storage system, as described in any of items 67-79. (Item 81) An energy storage system comprising a plurality of converter modules, each of the plurality of converter modules comprising an AC interface and a DC interface, each AC interface of the plurality of converter modules being electrically coupled in a cascaded manner to form an array, the array being configured to output an AC signal comprising a superposition of the AC module voltages output from the AC interfaces of the plurality of converter modules, and each of the plurality of DC interfaces of the plurality of converter modules being electrically coupled to at least one other DC interface of the plurality of converter modules. An energy storage system in which the DC interface of at least one of the plurality of converter modules is coupled to a photovoltaic (PV) source or a fuel cell. (Item 82) Each of the aforementioned plurality of converter modules is Energy source, Energy buffer and A DC-DC converter electrically positioned between the DC interface and the energy source, A DC-AC converter electrically positioned between the energy source and the AC interface. The system described in item 81, which includes the features described. (Item 83) The DC-DC converter is a system described in item 82, comprising a transformer. (Item 84) The system according to item 81, further comprising a control system configured to control the switching network of each of the plurality of converter modules and to set the DC interface voltage across the DC interface of each of the plurality of converter modules. (Item 85) The system according to item 84, wherein each of the plurality of converter modules comprises an LC circuit coupled across the DC interface. (Item 86) The system according to item 84, wherein the control system is configured to monitor the charge status of each energy source of the plurality of converter modules, and to control the switch network to set the DC interface voltage of the plurality of converter modules such that at least one energy source of the plurality of converter modules receives more power from the PV source or fuel cell than at least one other energy source of the plurality of converter modules. (Item 87) The system according to item 84, wherein the control system is configured to maintain equilibrium in the charge state of the energy sources of the plurality of converter modules by adjusting the power distributed through the DC interfaces of the plurality of converter modules. (Item 88) An energy storage system comprising a plurality of converter modules, each of the plurality of converter modules comprising an AC interface, a first DC interface, and a second DC interface, The AC interface of each of the plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled in a cascaded manner to form an array, and the array is configured to output an AC signal comprising the superposition of the AC module voltages output from the AC interfaces of the plurality of converter modules. The first DC interface of each of the plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to at least one other DC interface of the plurality of converter modules. An energy storage system in which the second DC interface of at least one of the plurality of converter modules is coupled to a photovoltaic (PV) source or a fuel cell. (Item 89) Each of the aforementioned plurality of converter modules is Energy source, Energy buffer and Transformer and, A first converter electrically positioned between the first DC interface and the transformer, A second converter electrically positioned between the second DC interface and the transformer, A third converter electrically positioned between the energy source and the transformer, A fourth converter electrically positioned between the AC interface and the transformer, The system described in item 88, which includes the features described therein. (Item 90) The system according to item 89, further comprising a control system configured to control the first, second, third, and fourth converters of each of the plurality of converter modules. (Item 91) The system according to item 88, further comprising a control system configured to control the switching network of each of the plurality of converter modules, to set a first DC interface voltage across the first DC interface of each of the plurality of converter modules, and to set a second DC interface voltage across the second DC interface of each of the plurality of converter modules. (Item 92) The system according to item 91, wherein each of the plurality of converter modules comprises a first LC circuit coupled across the first DC interface and a second LC circuit coupled across the second DC interface. (Item 93) The system according to item 91, wherein the control system is configured to maintain equilibrium of the charge state of the energy sources of the plurality of converter modules by adjusting the power distributed through the first DC interface of the plurality of converter modules. (Item 94) An energy storage system comprising a plurality of converter modules, each of the plurality of converter modules comprising an energy source, a first AC interface, and a second AC interface, The first AC interface of each of the plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled in a cascaded manner to form an array, and the array is configured to output a first AC signal to the power grid, which comprises a superposition of the AC module voltages output from the first AC interfaces of the plurality of converter modules. An energy storage system in which the second AC interface of each of the plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled in a cascaded manner and configured to receive a second AC signal. (Item 95) The energy storage system according to item 94, wherein the plurality of converter modules are configured to receive the second AC signal from a renewable energy source. (Item 96) The energy storage system according to item 94, wherein each of the plurality of converter modules comprises a transformer electrically positioned between the first AC interface and the second AC interface. (Item 97) An energy storage system according to any one of items 94-96, wherein each of the plurality of converter modules is provided with a DC interface, and the DC interface of each of the plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the DC interface of at least one other of the plurality of converter modules. (Item 98) The energy storage system according to item 97, wherein the plurality of converter modules are configured to transfer energy between them via the DC interface. (Item 99) The energy storage system according to item 98, further comprising a control system configured to coordinate energy transfer between the plurality of converter modules via the DC interface. (Item 100) The energy storage system according to any one of items 97-99, wherein the DC interface is a first DC interface, and each of the plurality of converter modules has a second DC interface coupled to a photovoltaic power source or energy source. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] 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. The components in the diagrams are not necessarily to a fixed scale, but rather the emphasis is on illustrating the principles of the subject matter. Furthermore, all explanatory diagrams are intended to convey concepts where relative size, shape, and other detailed attributes can be illustrated graphically, rather than literally or precisely.

[0009] [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.

[0010] [Figure 1-3] Figure 1D-1E is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a control device for an energy system.

[0011] [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.

[0012] [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.

[0013] [Figure 2C] Figure 2C is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the physical configuration of the module.

[0014] [Figure 2D] Figure 2D is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the physical configuration of a modular energy system.

[0015] [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.

[0016] [Figure 4] Figures 4A-4F are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of the energy source.

[0017] [Figure 5] Figures 5A-5C are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of the energy buffer.

[0018] [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.

[0019] [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.

[0020] [Figure 8-1]Figure 8A is a plot illustrating the exemplary output voltage of the module. Figure 8B is a plot illustrating the exemplary multilevel output voltage of the module array.

[0021] [Figure 8-2] Figure 8C is a plot illustrating exemplary reference and carrier signals usable in pulse-width modulation control techniques. Figure 8D is a plot illustrating exemplary reference and carrier signals usable in pulse-width modulation control techniques. Figure 8E is a plot illustrating exemplary switch signals generated according to pulse-width modulation control techniques. 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.

[0022] [Figure 9] Figures 9A-9B are block diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of a controller for a modular energy system.

[0023] [Figure 10A] Figure 10A is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a multiphase modular energy system having interconnection modules.

[0024] [Figure 10B] Figure 10B is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the interconnection module in the multiphase embodiment of Figure 10A.

[0025] [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.

[0026] [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.

[0027] [Figure 10E] Figure 10E is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the interconnection module in the multiphase embodiment shown in Figure 10D.

[0028] [Figure 10F] Figure 10F is a block diagram illustrating another exemplary embodiment of a three-phase modular energy system having interconnection modules that supply auxiliary loads.

[0029] [Figure 11A] Figures 11A-11B are block diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of the converter module. [Figure 11B] Figures 11A-11B are block diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of the converter module.

[0030] [Figure 11C] Figures 11C-11E are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of the converter module. [Figure 11D] Figures 11C-11E are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of the converter module. [Figure 11E] Figures 11C-11E are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of the converter module.

[0031] [Figure 11F] Figure 11F is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the converter module.

[0032] [Figure 11G] Figure 11G is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the converter module.

[0033] [Figure 11H] Figure 11H is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the converter module.

[0034] [Figure 11I] Figure 11I is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the converter module.

[0035] [Figure 11J] Figure 11J is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the converter module.

[0036] [Figure 12A] Figures 12A-12B are block diagrams illustrating an exemplary embodiment of an energy system including an array of converter modules connected to one or more photovoltaic power sources. [Figure 12B] Figures 12A-12B are block diagrams illustrating an exemplary embodiment of an energy system including an array of converter modules connected to one or more photovoltaic power sources.

[0037] [Figure 12C] Figures 12C-12F are block diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of an energy system having multiple arrays of converter modules connected to one or more photovoltaic power sources. [Figure 12D] Figures 12C-12F are block diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of an energy system having multiple arrays of converter modules connected to one or more photovoltaic power sources. [Figure 12E] Figures 12C-12F are block diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of an energy system having multiple arrays of converter modules connected to one or more photovoltaic power sources. [Figure 12F] Figures 12C-12F are block diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of an energy system having multiple arrays of converter modules connected to one or more photovoltaic power sources.

[0038] [Figure 12G]Figures 12G-12H are block diagrams illustrating an exemplary embodiment of an energy system having an array of converter modules connected in parallel to one or more photovoltaic power sources. [Figure 12H] Figures 12G-12H are block diagrams illustrating an exemplary embodiment of an energy system having an array of converter modules connected in parallel to one or more photovoltaic power sources.

[0039] [Figure 12I] Figures 12I-12J are block diagrams illustrating an exemplary embodiment of an energy system having multiple arrays of converter modules connected to a photovoltaic power source. [Figure 12J] Figures 12I-12J are block diagrams illustrating an exemplary embodiment of an energy system having multiple arrays of converter modules connected to a photovoltaic power source.

[0040] [Figure 12K] Figures 12K-12N are block diagrams illustrating an exemplary embodiment of an energy system having multiple arrays of converter modules connected to one or more wind turbines. [Figure 12L] Figures 12K-12N are block diagrams illustrating an exemplary embodiment of an energy system having multiple arrays of converter modules connected to one or more wind turbines. [Figure 12M] Figures 12K-12N are block diagrams illustrating an exemplary embodiment of an energy system having multiple arrays of converter modules connected to one or more wind turbines. [Figure 12N] Figures 12K-12N are block diagrams illustrating an exemplary embodiment of an energy system having multiple arrays of converter modules connected to one or more wind turbines.

[0041] [Figure 13A] Figure 13A is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a housing frame structure for housing a multiphase system.

[0042] [Figure 13B] Figures 13B and 13C are diagrams depicting exemplary embodiments of an electronic rack for use in a rack-based installation. [Figure 13C] Figures 13B and 13C are diagrams depicting exemplary embodiments of an electronic rack for use in a rack-based installation.

[0043] [Figure 13D] Figure 13D is an elevation view depicting an exemplary embodiment of a rack-based installation consistent with the foregoing figures.

[0044] [Figure 14A] Figures 14A - 14C are block diagrams depicting exemplary embodiments of modules and connection phases and module-based arrangements within a polyphase module-based energy system framework structure. [Figure 14B] Figures 14A - 14C are block diagrams depicting exemplary embodiments of modules and connection phases and module-based arrangements within a polyphase module-based energy system framework structure. [Figure 14C] Figures 14A - 14C are block diagrams depicting exemplary embodiments of modules and connection phases and module-based arrangements within a polyphase module-based energy system framework structure.

[0045] [Figure 15] Figures 15A - 15B depict exemplary embodiments of an energy storage system having multiple energy sources for use in first life applications and second life applications.

[0046] [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a flowchart depicting an exemplary embodiment of a method for providing energy from an energy storage system having a second life energy source to a load.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0047] Before the subject matter is described in detail, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the particular embodiments being described and as such may, of course, vary. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting since the scope of the present disclosure will be limited only by the appended claims.

[0048] Before describing exemplary embodiments of a modular energy system that interfaces with a photovoltaic power source, it is first useful to describe these underlying systems in more detail. Referring to FIGS. 1A-10F, the following sections describe various applications in which embodiments of a modular energy system may be implemented, embodiments of control systems or devices for a modular energy system, the configuration of embodiments of a modular energy system with respect to a power source and a load, embodiments of individual modules, embodiments of topologies for the arrangement of modules within a system, embodiments of control methodologies, embodiments of the balancing operating characteristics of modules within a system, and embodiments of the use of interconnected modules. (Examples of Applications)

[0049] Stationary applications involve modular energy systems that are located in a fixed location during use, but may be transportable to an alternative location when not in use. While stationary, these modular energy systems 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 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 power grids and micro-grids, motors, and data centers. Static energy systems can be used in either storage or non-storage roles.

[0050] 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 to move or assist in moving that entity. Examples of mobile entities in which embodiments disclosed herein may be used include, but are not limited to, electric and / or hybrid entities that move over or under land, over or in the sea, over 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 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 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 on which embodiments disclosed herein may be used include, but are not limited to, cars, buses, trucks, motorcycles, scooters, industrial vehicles, mining vehicles, flying vehicles (e.g., airplanes, helicopters, drones, etc.), marine 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.

[0051] In describing embodiments of this specification, specific stationary applications (e.g., power grids, micro-grids, 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 suitable for both mobile and stationary applications unless otherwise described. (Example of a modular energy system)

[0052] Figure 1A is a block diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of a module-based energy system 100. Here, the system 100 includes a control system 102 which is communicably coupled to N converter source modules 108-1 to 108-N, each via a communication path or links 106-1 to 106-N. Modules 108 are 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). 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, modules 108 are shown connected in series or as a one-dimensional array, with the Nth module coupled to a load 101.

[0053] System 100 is configured to supply power to a load 101. The load 101 can be any type of load, such as a motor or a power 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 to receive power from a power source 150 and output power to the load 101, or can be commanded to choose between these 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)).

[0054] 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.

[0055] Figure 1C depicts another exemplary embodiment of system 100. Here, each MCD112 is communicatively coupled to M different LCDs 114-1 to 114-M via a communication path or links 115-1 to 115-M. Each LCD 114 is coupled to two or more modules 108 and can control them. In the example shown here, each LCD 114 is communicatively coupled to two modules 108, thereby the 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.

[0056] The control system 102 can be configured as a single device for the entire system 100 (e.g., Figure 1A), or it can be distributed across multiple devices or implemented as such (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 the MCD 112 to be omitted from system 100 as it is not needed.

[0057] 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 a processing network 120 and a memory 122, as shown herein. Exemplary implementations of the processing network and memory are described further below.

[0058] 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 power grid controller in a stationary application).

[0059] Each of the communication paths or links 105, 106, 115, 116, and 118 (Figure 2B) can be a wired (e.g., electrical, optical) or wireless communication path for communicating data or information bidirectionally, in parallel or series. Data can be communicated in a standardized (e.g., IEEE, ANSI) or custom (e.g., proprietary) format. In automotive applications, communication path 115 can be configured to communicate according to the FlexRay or CAN protocol. Communication paths 106, 115, 116, and 118 can also provide wired power to directly supply operating power for the system 102 from one or more modules 108. For example, the operating power for each LCD 114 can be supplied by only one or more modules 108 to which that LCD 114 is connected, while the operating power for the MCD 112 can be supplied indirectly from one or more of the modules 108 (e.g., through the car's power network).

[0060] 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. The 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.

[0061] The status information of all modules 108 in system 100 can be communicated to control system 102, and they can control all modules 108-1...108-N independently. 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.

[0062] Status information may be information about one or more aspects, characteristics, or parameters of each module 108. The type of status information may include, but is not limited to, 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 sources relative to their 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 their 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, the state of power (SOP) (e.g., the available power limit of the energy source between discharge and / or charge), the state of energy (SOE) (e.g., the current level of available energy of the energy source relative to the maximum available energy of the source), and / or the presence or absence of faults in any one or more of the components of the module.

[0063] 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), which can be used by the LCD 114 to either maintain or adjust the operation of each module 108.

[0064] 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 presence or absence of fault. In such an example, the MCD112 may output control information to reduce or increase (depending on the conditions) the relevant aspect of that particular module 108 (e.g., output voltage, current, power, temperature). In this method, the use of outlier module 108 (e.g., operating with a relatively low SOC or high temperature) can be reduced so that the relevant parameters of module 108 (e.g., SOC or temperature) converge toward those of one or more other modules 108.

[0065] The decision of whether to adjust the operation of a particular module 108 may not necessarily be made by comparing it with the status of other modules 108, but rather by comparing it with a predetermined threshold, limit, or condition in the status information. The predetermined threshold, limit, or condition may be a static threshold, limit, or condition that does not change during use, such as those set by the manufacturer. The predetermined threshold, limit, or condition may be a dynamic threshold, limit, or condition that is made changeable (or changes) during use. For example, the MCD 112 may adjust the operation of module 108 if the status information for that module 108 indicates that it is violating a predetermined threshold or limit (e.g., above or below it) or operating outside a predetermined range of acceptable operating conditions. Similarly, the MCD 112 may adjust the operation of module 108 if the status information for that module 108 indicates an actual or potential fault (e.g., an alarm or warning), or indicates that there is no actual or potential fault or that it has been removed. Examples of failures include, but are not limited to, actual failure of a component, potential failure of a component, 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 or completely discontinued to avoid damaging the module. For example, if a failure occurs in a given module, the MCD112 or LCD114 may cause that module to enter a bypass state as described herein.

[0066] MCD112 can control module 108 within system 100 to achieve or converge towards a desired target. The target can be, for example, that the operations of all modules 108 are at the same or similar levels relative to each other, or within a predetermined threshold, limit, or condition. This process is also referred to as attempting to maintain or achieve balance in the operation or operating characteristics of module 108. The term "balance", as used herein, does not require absolute equivalence between module 108 or its components, but rather is used in a broad sense to convey that the operation of system 100 can be used to actively reduce the inequality in the operations (or operating states) between modules 108 that would otherwise exist.

[0067] For the purpose of controlling module 108 associated with LCD114, MCD112 can communicate control information to LCD114. The control information can be, for example, a modulation index and a reference signal, a modulated reference signal, or others as described herein. Each LCD114 can use (e.g., receive and process) the control information and generate a switch signal to control the operation of one or more components (e.g., converters) within the associated module 108. In some embodiments, MCD112 directly generates switch signals and outputs them to LCD114, which relays the switch signals to the intended module components.

[0068] 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 subsystem), 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 a vehicle ECU or MCU with control capabilities for one or more other vehicle functions (e.g., motor control, driver interface control, traction force control, etc.), a grid or micro-grid 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.).

[0069] 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., vehicles or components of a power grid) 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.

[0070] 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 include software or other program instructions stored and / or hardcoded in the memory of device 104 and executed by its processing network. The component may also include dedicated hardware. The component may be a self-contained module or core with one or more internal hardware and / or software interfaces (e.g., application programming interfaces (APIs)) 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 in a single package, or integrated as multiple semiconductor packages in a common enclosure.

[0071] 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 subsystem) 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)

[0072] 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 described herein with reference to a voltage converter, but are not limited thereto. The converter 202 may be configured to convert a direct current (DC) signal from the energy source 206 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 206 with either polarity in a continuous 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.

[0073] Converter 202 may also be configured (or alternatively) to perform AC / DC conversion (e.g., 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, 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 when weight and cost are important factors, converter 202 may be configured to perform conversion without a transformer, using only a power switch, power diode, or other semiconductor device.

[0074] The energy source 206 is preferably a robust energy storage device that outputs DC and is capable of having an energy density suitable for energy storage applications for electrically powered devices. The energy source 206 can 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 depicting exemplary embodiments of the energy source 206 configured as a single battery 402 (Figure 4A), a battery module with multiple (e.g., 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 with branches, each having two batteries 402 (Figure 4D). A non-exclusive list of battery type examples is provided somewhere in this specification.

[0075] The energy source 206 can 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), pseudocapacitors (electrochemical charge storage), hybrid capacitors (electrostatic and electrochemical), or others. HED capacitors can have 10 to 100 times (or higher) energy density than those of electrolytic capacitors, in addition to higher capacitance. 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. The fuel cell may be a single fuel cell, multiple fuel cells connected in series or parallel, or a fuel cell module. Examples of fuel cell types 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 may be configured as a single fuel cell or multiple fuel cells connected together in an array (e.g., in series, parallel, or a combination thereof). The foregoing examples of source classes (e.g., batteries, capacitors, and fuel cells) and types (chemicals and / or structural configurations within each class) 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 DCL The buffer 204 can attenuate or filter current fluctuations across the DC link voltage, helping to maintain stability. These fluctuations may be relatively low (e.g., kilohertz) or high (e.g., megahertz) frequency fluctuations or harmonics or other transient events caused by switching of the converter 202. These fluctuations can be absorbed by the buffer 204 instead of being passed through the source 206 or ports IO3 and IO4 of the 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, which can then be transferred to other modules or loads in the system. Module 108 can receive energy from other modules 108 or charging sources (DC charger, single-phase charger, multi-phase charger). Signals can also pass through module 108, bypassing energy source 206. The routing of energy or power into and out of module 108 is performed 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 component separate 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 be capable of receiving signals from energy buffer 204 and / or energy source 206 via path 116 or 118 and transmitting signals to them.

[0080] Module 108 may also include a monitoring network 208 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 (or, for example, can be used by LCD 114 to determine) 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 at any location 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 can be separate from the various components 202, 204, and 206, or integrated with each component 202, 204, and 206 (as shown in Figures 2A-2B), or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the monitoring network 208 can be part of or shared with a battery management system (BMS) for the battery energy source 204. Separate networks are not required to monitor each type of status information, since two or more types of status information can be monitored using a single circuit or device without the need for additional circuitry, or otherwise determined algorithmically.

[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 the 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) in combination with a switch signal that puts the converter 202 into a specific state, causing the status information to be generated.

[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, e.g., converter 202, buffer 204, and source 206, together with other optional components such as an integrated LCD 114, are housed. In other embodiments, the various components may be separated in separate housings fixed together. Figure 2C is a block diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of module 108 having 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 an LCD 114 (not shown) for module 108. In alternative embodiments, the module electronics and LCD 114 may be housed in the same single housing. In yet another embodiment, the module electronics, LCD 114, and energy source may be housed in the same single housing for module 108. Electrical connections between various module components can run through housings 220, 222, and 224, and can be exposed on any of the exteriors of the housing for connection to other devices such as other modules 108 or MCD112.

[0083] The modules 108 of system 100 can be physically arranged relative to each other in various configurations depending on the application requirements and the number of loads. For example, in a stationary application where system 100 provides power for a micro-power grid, the modules 108 can be installed in one or more racks or other frame structures. Such a configuration may also be suitable for larger mobile applications such as marine vessels. Alternatively, the modules 108 can be fixed together and arranged 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 micro-power grid), 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 within 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 / module 108, where the LCD 114 is housed within the associated module, but 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 power connection ports (e.g., terminals, connectors) from which power can be input and / or output, referred herein as IO ports. 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 pulsations 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 pulsations. 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 an electrolytic and / or film capacitor C EBであり、 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 EB2The Z-source network 710 formed thereby, in FIG. 5C, the buffer 204 includes two inductors L EB1 and L EB2 and two electrolytic and / or film capacitors C EB1 and C EB2 and the quasi Z-source network 720 formed by the diode D EB is.

[0087] Ports IO3 and IO4 of the energy buffer 204 can be connected to ports IO1 and IO2 of the converter 202A respectively, 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 the 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, 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 the control input line 118-3 to each gate.

[0088] The switches can be any suitable switch type such as power semiconductors like the metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET), insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT), or gallium nitride (GaN) transistor shown herein. The semiconductor switches operate at a relatively high switching frequency, thereby enabling the converter 202 to be operated in pulse width modulation (PWM) mode as 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, the DC line voltage V DCLHowever, this can be applied to the converter 202 between ports IO1 and IO2. V can be applied by different combinations of switches S3, S4, S5, and S6. DCL By 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, while -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 S3 and S5 on with S4 and S6 off, or by turning S4 and S6 on with S3 and S5 off. 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 can 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 consist of multiple energy sources 206 (e.g., two, three, four, or more). Each energy source 206 of module 108 can be controlled (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 can simultaneously output power to the connection 110 (or be charged), or only one (or some) of the sources 206 can 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 can charge another source 206. Each of the sources 206 can be configured as any energy source described herein (e.g., a battery, a HED capacitor, a fuel cell). Each of the sources 206 can be of the same class (for example, each can be a battery, each can be a HED capacitor, or each can be a fuel cell) or of a different class (for example, the first source can be a battery and the second source can be a HED capacitor or a fuel cell, or the first source can be a HED capacitor and the second source can be a fuel cell).

[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 provide additional power at load power peaks, absorb excess power, or otherwise supplement the energy source 202.

[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 source 206B, as depicted in Figure 4E, and may function as an energy buffer for source 206B, or energy source 206B may be configured to utilize a 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, in a manner similar to converter 202A, is configured as a full bridge and includes switches S3-S6 configured to selectively couple IO1 and IO2 to either IO3 or IO4, thereby changing the output voltage of module 108B. Section 602A is configured as a half bridge and includes switches S1 and S2 coupled between ports IO1 and IO2. Coupling inductor L CHowever, 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 (boost or buck) voltage (or conversely, current). The switch section 602A can generate two different voltages at node 1, which are +VDCL2 and 0, referenced to port IO2, which may be at virtually zero potential. 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 is configured as a half-bridge and includes switches S1 and S2 coupled between ports IO5 and IO2. Coupling inductor L C However, the switch portion 602B is connected between port IO1 and node 1, which is located between switches S1 and S2, so that it is configured to adjust the voltage.

[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 the switching signals, which can be communicated directly to the switches or relayed by LCD 114. In some embodiments, a driver network for generating the switching signals may reside in or be associated with MCD 112 and / or LCD 114.

[0098] The aforementioned zero-voltage configuration for converter 202 (turning S3 and S5 on with S4 and S6 off, or turning S4 and S6 on with S3 and S5 off) may also be referred to as a bypass state for a given module. This bypass state may occur when a fault is detected within a given module, or when a system fault is detected that justifies shutting off two or more (or all) modules in the array or system. A fault in a module can be detected by LCD 114, and the control switching signal for converter 202 can be set to the bypass state without intervention by MCD 112. Alternatively, fault information regarding a given module can be communicated by LCD 114 to MCD 112, which can then determine whether to enter the bypass state and, if applicable, communicate a command to enter the bypass state to the LCD 114 associated with the faulty module, at which point LCD 114 can output a switching signal to enter the bypass state.

[0099] 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.

[0100] Module 108 with multiple energy sources 206 can perform additional functions such as energy sharing among the 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. The active filtering function can also be performed by a module having a typical electrolytic capacitor instead of a secondary energy source. Examples of these functions are described in more detail in international application PCT / US20 / 25366, filed on 27 March 2020 and titled "Module-Based Energy Systems Capable of Cascaded and Interconnected Configurations, and Methods Related Thereto," and international publication WO2019 / 183553, filed on 22 March 2019 and titled "Systems and Methods for Power Management and Control" (both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes).

[0101] 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 an electric power grid. 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.

[0102] 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 then 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 then coupled to ports IO5 and IO2 of the converter 202B, respectively. Converter 202B is coupled to port IO5 (Figure 6B) with a coupling inductor L C It may include a switch section 602 having a coupling inductor L. The energy supplied by the source 206 can be supplied to the load 302 through the switch section 602 of the converter 202B. The load 302 is assumed to have an input capacitor (a capacitor can be added to module 108C if not applicable), and therefore switches S1 and S2 have a coupling inductor L. C The voltage above and the current passing through it are rectified to adjust them, and thus a stable constant voltage can be produced for the load 302. This adjustment can reduce the voltage of the source 206 to a lower magnitude voltage required by the load 302.

[0103] 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, for each additional load 302, module 108C can be scaled 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] Module 108 can be configured to supply energy to the first and / or second auxiliary load (Figure 3C) using two or more energy sources 206 (Figure 3B) as needed, through the addition of a switch section 602 and converter port IO5 for each additional source 206B or second auxiliary load 302. Additional module IO ports (e.g., 3, 4, 5, 6) can be added as needed. Module 108 can also be configured as an interconnection module to 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.

[0106] The control system 102 can perform various functions on 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.

[0107] 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 monitored voltages, temperatures, and currents from each energy source 206 (or monitoring network). The monitored 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 voltages 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 monitored 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 temperatures and currents of the group of basic components as a whole, or any combination thereof. The monitored signal may be status information, and the LCD114 may use the status information 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 switch signals for the converter 202 that manage the utilization of the source 206.

[0108] To protect the energy buffer 204, the LCD 114 can receive one or more monitored voltages, temperatures, and currents from the energy buffer 204 (or monitoring network). The monitored voltages are each basic component of the buffer 204 independent of other components (e.g., C EB , C EB1 , C EB2 , L EB1 , L EB2 , D EB The voltage 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 temperature and current to be monitored 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 or buffer 204 as a whole, or any combination thereof. The signals to be monitored may be status information, and LCD 114 may use the status information to perform one or more of the following: setting or outputting a warning or alarm indication, communicating the status information to MCD 112, or controlling converter 202 to adjust (increase or decrease) the utilization of source 206 and module 108 as a whole for buffer protection.

[0109] 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, and the control signals can be used within the LCD 114 in conjunction with 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 converter switch driver circuit (not shown) that can carry information about the fault status (e.g., short circuit or open circuit fault mode) of all switches of 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 the converter 202 (and module 108 as a whole) or to disconnect it from system 100.

[0110] 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 load 302, coupled inductor L C It can receive the internal current and the following 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)

[0111] Two or more modules 108 can be coupled together in a cascaded array that 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, in which 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 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 generated by an array 700 having six 48V modules 108 coupled in series.

[0112] System 100 can be arranged in a wide variety of different topologies to meet the changing needs of 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.

[0113] 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 output 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 opposite the array system IO ports SIO1 and SIO2, and can be coupled together at a common node and optionally used for an additional system IO port SIO3, which 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.

[0114] 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, which 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 as desired, which can serve as a neutral port.

[0115] 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, each configured to generate single-phase AC signals having a different phase angle (e.g., 90 degrees apart); a system 100 having five arrays 700, each configured to generate single-phase AC signals having a different phase angle (e.g., 72 degrees apart); and a system 100 having six arrays 700, each configured to generate single-phase AC signals having a different phase angle (e.g., 60 degrees apart).

[0116] System 100 can be configured such that arrays 700 are interconnected at the 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 arrangements. Each array 700 includes a first series connection of M modules 108 coupled with a second series connection of N modules 108. The delta configuration is formed by interconnections between arrays and can be installed in 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.

[0117] 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 between all modules 108 of the system and the phase of the power grid or load (interphase balance), reduce the total number of modules 108 in the array 700, and also allow for obtaining the desired output voltage.

[0118] 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 with all identical configurations (e.g., all modules are 108A, all modules are 108B, all modules are 108C, or otherwise) or different configurations (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. (Examples of control methodologies)

[0119] 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-shifted carrier technique that rotates the utilization of each module 108 in a linear fashion and distributes the power equally among them.

[0120] Figures 8C–8F are plots illustrating exemplary embodiments of a phase-shifted PWM control methodology that can generate multilevel output PWM waveforms using gradually shifted two-level waveforms. An X-level PWM waveform can be generated by the sum of (X-1) / 2 two-level PWM waveforms. These two-level waveforms can be generated by comparing a reference waveform Vref with a carrier wave that is gradually shifted by 360° / (X-1). The carrier wave is triangular, but embodiments are not limited thereto. A 9-level example is shown in Figure 8C (using four modules 108). The carrier wave is gradually 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 containing four modules 108, each with a converter 202, the 0° signal is for controlling S3 of the first module 108-1, the 180° signal is for controlling S6 of the same module, the 45° signal is for controlling S3 of the second module 108-2, the 225° signal is for controlling S6 of the same module, the 90° signal is for controlling S3 of the third module 108-3, the 270° signal is for controlling S6 of the same module, the 135° signal is for controlling S3 of the fourth module 108-4, and the 315° signal is for controlling S6 of the same module. With sufficient dead time to avoid shoot-through of each half-bridge, the signal for S3 is complementary to S4, 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.

[0121] An alternative is to utilize both positive and negative reference signals along with the first (N-1) / 2 carrier waves. 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 wave in Figure 8D, and the 180°~315° switching signal is generated by comparing -Vref with the 0°~135° carrier wave in Figure 8D. However, the logic of the comparison in the latter case is reversed. Other techniques, such as state mechanical decoders, can also be used to generate gate signals for switching the converter 202.

[0122] In a multiphase system embodiment, the same carrier wave can be used for each phase, or a set of carrier waves 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 carrier waves with the same relative offset as shown in Figures 8C and 8D, but the carrier wave for the second phase is shifted by 120 degrees compared to the carrier wave for the first phase, and the carrier wave for the third phase is shifted by 240 degrees compared to the carrier wave for 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 carrier wave 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 may help reduce losses in EV motors under high-current conditions.

[0123] 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 provide all carrier signals, and the LCDs can select the appropriate carrier signal.

[0124] 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 to minimize 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.

[0125] 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.

[0126] 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 may receive a reference voltage waveform (Vr) and status information (e.g., state of charge (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 balanced. 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.

[0127] 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). With respect to 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. In this way, 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 abort power output may receive a Mi of zero. This operation can be carried out in various ways by the control system 102, such as by the MCD112 outputting Vrn and Mi to the appropriate LCD114 for modulation and switch signal generation, by the MCD112 performing modulation and outputting the modulated Vrnm to the appropriate LCD114 for switch signal generation, or by the MCD112 performing modulation and switch signal generation and directly outputting the switch signal to the LCD or converter 202 of each module 108. Vrn can be transmitted in conjunction with Mi, which is transmitted at regular intervals, such as once per Vrn period or once per minute.

[0128] 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 either of the SOCs is relatively low or 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.) can be used. Different combinations of modulation indices, and therefore each voltage contribution by the module, can be used, but the total generated voltage should remain the same.

[0129] The controller 900 can control the operation so as not to prevent the system from achieving its power output requirements at any given time (e.g., during maximum acceleration of an EV), so that the SOC of the energy sources within each module 108 remains balanced, or, if unbalanced, converges to an equilibrium condition, and / or so that the temperature of the energy sources or other components (e.g., energy buffers) within each module remains balanced, or, if unbalanced, converges to an equilibrium condition. Power flows within and outside 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.

[0130] Since it is not always possible to maintain equilibrium for all parameters simultaneously (for example, equilibrium for one parameter may further disequilibrium another), combinations of balancing 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 critical disequilibrium condition outside the threshold.

[0131] 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 in 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, and Ω intraphase equilibrium controllers 906-PA···906-PΩ for phase 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 introduction of a common mode into the phase (e.g., a neutral point shift), or through the use of interconnection modules (as described herein), or both. The introduction of a common mode involves introducing phase and amplitude shifts into a reference signal VrPA~VrPΩ to generate a normalized waveform VrnPA~VrnPΩ to compensate for imbalances within one or more arrays, and is further described in International Application No. PCT / US20 / 25366, incorporated herein.

[0132] 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 implemented within the MCD 112, partially or completely distributed among the LCDs 114, or implemented independently of the MCD 112 and LCDs 114 as separate controllers. (Example of an interconnected (IC) module)

[0133] Module 108 can be connected between modules of different arrays 700 for the purpose of exchanging energy between arrays, acting 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 to be 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.).

[0134] 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. In this embodiment and other embodiments, the IC module 108IC can be positioned on the rail side of array 700 such that array 700 (in this embodiment, arrays 700-PA to 700-PΩ) to which module 108IC is connected is electrically connected between module 108IC and the output to the load (e.g., SIO1 to SIOΩ). Here, module 108IC has Ω IO ports for connection to IO port 2 of each module 108-N in array 700-PA to 700-PΩ. In the configuration described herein, module 108IC can achieve interphase balance by selectively connecting one or more of module 108IC's energy sources to one or more of the array 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 control system 102 (not shown, see Figure 1A).

[0135] Figure 10B is a schematic diagram depicting 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. Each switch network 603 can independently include switch network units 604-PA to 604-PΩ to connect 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 configured with any switch type (e.g., MOSFET, IGBT, silicon, GaN, etc.) in any arrangement suitable for the requirements of the application.

[0136] The switch network unit 604 is coupled between the positive and negative terminals of the energy source 206, and the switch network unit 604 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 an LCD 114 and an MCD 112 (not shown). The LCD 114 can receive monitoring data or status information from the monitoring network of the module 108 IC. This monitoring data and / or other status information derived from this monitoring data can be output to the MCD 112 for use in system control as described herein. The LCD 114 can also receive timing information (not shown) for the purpose of synchronizing the module 108 of system 100 and one or more carrier signals (not shown), such as a sawtooth signal (Figure 8C-8D) used in PWM.

[0137] For interphase equilibrium, proportionally more energy from source 206 can be supplied to any one or more of the arrays 700-PA to 700-PΩ that are in a relatively low charge state compared to the other arrays 700. This complementary energy supply to a particular array 700 allows the energy output of those cascaded modules 108-1 to 108-N within that array 700 to be reduced compared to the phase arrays that are not supplied.

[0138] For example, in some exemplary embodiments where PWM is applied, the LCD 114 can be configured to receive (from the MCD 112) a normalized voltage reference signal (Vrn) (e.g., VrnPA to VrnPΩ) for each of the one or more arrays 700 to which its module 108IC is coupled. The LCD 114 can also receive modulation indices MiPA to MiPΩ for each switch unit 604-PA to 604-PΩ, respectively, from the MCD 112 for each array 700. The LCD 114 can then modulate (e.g., multiply) each respective Vrn using the modulation indices for the switch divisions coupled directly to its array (e.g., VrnA is multiplied by MiA), and then use the carrier signal to generate a control signal for each switch unit 604. In other embodiments, the MCD 112 can perform the modulation and output the modulated voltage reference waveform directly to the LCD 114 of the module 108IC for each unit 604. In yet another embodiment, all processing and modulation can be carried out by a single control entity that can output control signals directly to each unit 604.

[0139] This switching can be modulated so that power from energy source 206 is supplied to array 700 at appropriate intervals and durations. Such methodologies can be implemented in various ways.

[0140] Based on the status information collected about the system 100, such as the current capacity (Q) and the SOC of each energy source in 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 the 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~MiPΩ for each switch unit 604-PA~604-PΩ.

[0141] 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 may be the same or similar and 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 so that module 108IC drains at the same rate as the 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 a net energy discharge of zero) during balanced operation. This may be useful if module 108IC has a lower total charge than the other modules in the system.

[0142] If an unequilibrium condition occurs between arrays 700, the modulation index of system 100 can be adjusted to cause convergence toward equilibrium or to minimize further divergence. For example, the control system 102 can cause module 108IC to discharge more to arrays 700 with lower charge levels 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 contributed 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 contributed by module 108IC to the other arrays. This can be accomplished by increasing the Mi for the switch units 604 supplying the low array 700, and by decreasing the modulation indices 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 for other switch units 604 supplying other higher arrays relatively invariant (or decreases them).

[0143] 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 module 108ICs, 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, so that the two modules are combined to power a system 100 having Ω+1 arrays 700. Any number of module 108ICs can be combined in this manner, each coupled to one or more arrays 700 of system 100.

[0144] 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 micro-power grids.

[0145] 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 other modules 108IC using I / O ports 3 and 4 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.

[0146] 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 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 the compensation for imbalance between two arrays of the same rack or pack 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 be used (including a single IC module for all arrays of system 100 and a configuration with one dedicated IC module for each array 700 (e.g., six IC modules for six arrays, each IC module having one switch unit 604)). In any case, using multiple IC modules, the energy sources can be coupled together in parallel to share energy as described herein.

[0147] In systems with IC modules between phases, interphase equilibrium can also be achieved by neutral point shift (or common mode introduction), as described above. Such combinations enable more robust and flexible equilibrium under a wider range of operating conditions. System 100 can determine the appropriate circumstances under which interphase equilibrium should be achieved using only neutral point shift, only interphase energy introduction, or a combination of both simultaneously.

[0148] The IC module can 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 voltage lowered 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 an 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). LCD 114 receives 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 MCD 112 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 the LCD 114 to maintain the required voltage level for the load 302, either independently or based on a control input from the MCD 112. In this embodiment, each module 108IC includes a switch section 602A that is connected together and supplies to one load 302, but this is not required.

[0149] Figure 10F is a block diagram depicting another exemplary embodiment of a three-phase system configured to supply power to one or more auxiliary loads 301 and 302 using modules 108IC-1, 108IC-2, and 108IC-3. In this embodiment, modules 108IC-1 and 108IC-2 are configured in the same manner as those described with respect to Figures 10D-10E. Module 108IC-3 is configured solely for auxiliary roles and does not actively introduce voltage or current into any array 700 of the system 100. In this embodiment, module 108IC-3 may have converters 202B, C (Figures 6B-6C) configured as module 108C in Figure 3B, with one or more auxiliary switch portions 602A, but without the switch portion 601. Therefore, one or more energy sources 206 of module 108IC-3 are interconnected in parallel with those of modules 108IC-1 and 108IC-2, and thus this embodiment of system 100 consists of additional energy to supply auxiliary loads 301 and 302 and to maintain the charge to the sources 206A of modules 108IC-1 and 108IC-2 through parallel connection with the source 206 of module 108IC-3.

[0150] The energy source 206 of each IC module can be the same voltage and capacitance as the sources 206 of the other modules 108-1 to 108-N in the system, but this is not required. 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 in the phase array itself. If module 108IC also supplies an auxiliary load, even greater capacitance may be desired so that the IC module can both supply and discharge to the auxiliary load at a rate relatively the same as the other modules. (Interface with renewable energy sources)

[0151] System 100 may be configured to interface with renewable energy sources, including, but not limited to, photovoltaic (PV) cells and energy recovery devices such as wind turbines. PV cells convert solar thermal energy into electrical energy and output that electrical energy as a voltage or current, which can be used to supply loads or power grids, or stored for later use. PV cells may be arranged together and grouped in a number of different configurations, such as rigid or flexible panels or modules. Multiple panels or modules may be grouped together in a larger PV array. PV cells within each panel or module may be electrically connected to produce an optimal voltage or current, and panels or modules as an array may be electrically connected to produce an optimal voltage or current. Arrangements of one or more PV cells, whether as panels, modules, arrays, or otherwise, will be referred to herein as PV sources 1101. PV sources can be used in a wide variety of applications, primarily as solar thermal arrays located within residential, commercial, industrial, municipal, and dedicated energy recovery sites for renewable energy recovery, with their energy buffered within a static energy storage system and / or supplied directly to a load or power grid. PV sources can also be installed directly on electric vehicles for storage within vehicles and / or direct use by EV motors. Thus, the PV-interface embodiments described herein are applicable to both mobile and stationary applications.

[0152] A wind turbine converts wind energy into electrical energy, which is then output as a voltage or current that can be used to supply electrical energy to a load or power grid, or stored for later use. Wind turbines can also be arranged together in different configurations and formed into groups. For example, a wind farm may contain a group of wind turbines in the same location. Wind turbines within a wind farm can be connected together to produce an optimal voltage or current. An arrangement of one or more wind turbines will be referred to herein as a wind source 1112.

[0153] An exemplary embodiment of a module configuration with an additional DC interface for receiving energy from a PV source 1101 is described. Figure 11A is a block diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of module 108D configured for use with one or more PV sources 1101. Module 108D may include any number of one or more energy sources 206, such as one or more batteries, one or more high energy density (HED) capacitors, and / or one or more fuel cells 1111. If multiple batteries are included, those batteries may have the same or different electrochemical components as described herein. Similarly, different types of HED capacitors and fuel cells 1111 may also be used. Each battery may be a single cell or multiple cells connected in series, parallel, or a combination thereof to achieve desired voltage and current characteristics. As shown in Figure 11A, module 108D includes a first source 206A and a second source 206B, the sources of which may be different types of batteries (e.g., LTO batteries and LFP batteries, etc.), or one may be a battery and the other a HED capacitor, or any other combination as described herein. Alternatively, module 108D may consist only of source 206A combined with converter 202A, as described with respect to Figure 3A. Additional energy sources 206 may be added to such a configuration by placing them in parallel or in series with sources 206A and 206B.

[0154] Module 108D includes converters 202B or 202C coupled with energy sources 206A and 206B in a similar manner to that described with respect to module 108B in Figure 3B. Energy source 206A is coupled with energy buffer 204, which is then coupled with isolated DC-DC converter 1100. Module 108D includes I / O ports 7 and 8, which are connected to PV source 1101 and receive signals DC_PV+ and DC_PV-, respectively, via line 1102. These signals carry the voltage and current generated by PV source 1101. These signals are input to DC-AC converter 1104 of converter 1100, where they are converted to high-frequency AC form and then input to transformer and rectifier section 1106. I / O ports 7 and 8 provide a DC interface for receiving energy from the PV source 1101.

[0155] The transformer and rectifier section 1106 may include a high-frequency transformer and a single-phase diode rectifier. The DC voltage on ports 7 and 8 may be lower than the total voltage supplied by the PV source 1101, since many such modules 108 may receive a charge from the PV source 1101 simultaneously. The transformer and rectifier section 1106 can, if necessary, modify the voltage of the AC signal from the converter 1104, convert the AC signal back to DC form, and charge sources 206A and 206B. Section 1106 also provides high-voltage isolation to the other components 202, 204, 206 and 114 of module 108D.

[0156] One-way rectification can be provided by a diode rectifier, which allows current to be received from the charge source 150 and passed through the buffer 204, but does not allow current to be output in the opposite direction. For example, the charge can be transported back to each module 108 through the power connection 110 (e.g., from the charge source 150) and routed to either source 206A or 206B using converters 202B and C. The presence of a one-way DC-DC isolation converter 1200 (diode rectifier) ​​will prevent its recovered energy from passing through module 108D, through line 1102, and back to the PV source 1101. Ports 1 and 2 and power connection 110 provide an AC interface to an AC bus connected to a load or bus.

[0157] The LCD 114 can monitor the status of converter 1100, specifically converter 1104 and section 1106, via data connections 118-5 and 118-6, respectively. As with other components of module 108D, monitoring networks for converter 1104 and section 1106 may be included to measure current, voltage, temperature, faults, etc. These connections 118-5 and 118-6 can also supply control signals to control the switching of converter 1104 and control any active elements within section 1106. The isolation of the LCD 114 can be maintained by isolated networks (e.g., isolated gate drivers and isolated sensors) present on lines 118-5 and 118-6.

[0158] LCD114 can also monitor the status of source 206A, buffer 204, converters 202B, C, and source 206B via data connections 118-1, 118-2, 118-3, and 118-4, respectively. These connections 118-1, 118-2, 118-3, and 118-4 can also supply signals, such as control signals, from LCD114 to source 206A, buffer 204, converters 202B, C, and source 206B, respectively.

[0159] Figure 11B is a block diagram depicting another exemplary embodiment of module 108D. In this embodiment, module 108D has a DC-DC isolated converter 1110 instead of converter 1100, and also has only one source 206 (although additional sources 206 may be included). Converter 1110 can route current from ports 7 and 8 to energy source 206. Converter 1110 includes a DC-AC converter 1104 connected between I / O ports 7 and 8 and buffer 204, and connected to transformer 1114, which in turn connects to AC-DC converter 1116. Converter 1104 can convert DC voltages at ports 7 and 8 to high-frequency AC voltages, transformer 1114 can, if necessary, modify it to a lower voltage and output the modified AC voltage to AC-DC converter 1116, which can reverse-convert the AC signal to DC form for supply to source 206A or module ports 1 and 2. Transformer 1114 can also isolate module components 202, 204, 206, 208, and 114 from the high voltages at ports 7 and 8. As with other components of module 108D, monitoring networks for converter 1104, transformer 1114, and converter 1116 may be included to measure current, voltage, temperature, faults, etc. The LCD 114 can monitor the status of converter 1110, specifically converter 1104, transformer 1114 (e.g., monitoring network or associated active components), and converter 1116, respectively, via data connections 118-5, 118-7, and 118-8. These connections 118-5, 118-7, and 118-8 supply control signals to control the switching of converter 1104 and / or converter 1116, and can also control any controllable elements associated with transformer 1114. The isolation of the LCD 114 can be maintained by isolated networks (e.g., isolated gate drivers and isolated sensors) present on lines 118-5, 118-7, and 118-8.

[0160] LCD114 can also monitor the status of buffer 204, source 206, and converter 202 via data connections 118-1, 118-2, and 118-3, respectively. These connections 118-1, 118-2, and 118-3 can also supply signals, such as control signals, from LCD114 to buffer 204, source 206, and converter 202, respectively.

[0161] Furthermore, for the electrochemical battery source 206, the length of the charging pulse applied to the source 206 by the AC-DC converter 1116 is maintained to have a certain length, for example, less than 5 milliseconds, to facilitate the occurrence of electrochemical storage reactions in the battery without the occurrence of major side reactions that could lead to degradation. The charging methodology can incorporate active feedback from each energy source to ensure that battery degradation is mitigated, if detected, by dropping the voltage or temporarily suspending the charging routine for that module, or otherwise. Such pulses can be applied at a high C-rate (e.g., 5C to 15C or higher) to enable fast charging of the source 206. The duration and frequency of the charging pulses can be controlled by the control system 102. An example of such a technique that may be used with any embodiment described herein is described in International Application No. PCT / US20 / 35437, entitled "Advanced Battery Charging on Modular Levels of Energy Storage Systems" (incorporated herein by reference for all purposes).

[0162] Figure 11C is a schematic diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of module 108D of Figure 11A. Converter 202B is coupled with secondary source 206B and can be configured in other embodiments as converter 202C (Figure 6C). Buffer 204 is configured here as a capacitor. I / O ports 7 and 8 are coupled to LC circuit 1118, which is then coupled to converter 1100, specifically DC-AC converter 1104, which is configured as a full-bridge converter with switches S10, S11, S12, and S13. In embodiments described herein, LC circuit 1118 can be a distributed DC filter capable of filtering harmonics from DC line 1102, providing current reduction function as desired, and / or performing other functions. The voltage across the LC circuit 1118 can be controlled for the purpose of matching the voltage with the PV source 1101 (e.g., power point tracking control) and / or for balance by adjusting the amount of relative energy received by each module 108D. The full bridge outputs from nodes N1 and N2 are connected to the primary winding of transformer 1105 in section 1106. The secondary winding of transformer 1105 is coupled to nodes N3 and N4 of the diode rectifier in section 1204, which has diodes D1-D4. The switches of converter 1104 can be semiconductor switches configured as MOSFETs, IGBTs, GaN devices, or others as described herein. The LCD 114 or another element of the control system 102 can provide switching signals for the control of switches S1-S6 and S10-S13. Along with other functions described herein, the converter 202B can be controlled to independently route current from ports 7 and 8 to power source 206B for charging and to I / O ports 1 and 2 for supplying power to a load or power grid.

[0163] Figure 11D is a schematic diagram depicting an exemplary embodiment of module 108D in Figure 11B. Converter 202B is coupled with secondary source 206B and can be configured as converter 202C (Figure 6C) in other embodiments. Buffer 204 is configured as a capacitor. I / O ports 7 and 8 are coupled to LC circuit 1118, which is then coupled to converter 1110, specifically DC-AC converter 1104, which is configured as a full-bridge converter with switches S10, S11, S12, and S13. The full-bridge outputs from nodes N1 and N2 are connected to the primary winding of transformer 1114. The secondary winding of transformer 1114 is coupled to nodes N3 and N4 of a second full-bridge circuit configured as AC-DC converter 1116 with switches S14, S15, S16, and S17. The switches of converter 1110 may be semiconductor switches configured as MOSFETs, IGBTs, GaN devices, or others as described herein. LCD 114 or another element of control system 102 may provide switching signals for controlling switches S3-S6 and S10-S17. Along with other functions described herein, converter 202B may be controlled to independently route current from ports 7 and 8 to power source 206 for charging and to I / O ports 1 and 2 for supplying power to a load or power grid.

[0164] Figure 11E is a schematic diagram depicting another exemplary embodiment of module 108D in Figure 11B, where the AC-DC converter 1116 is configured as a push-pull converter and has first terminals of source 206 connected to one side of the double secondary winding of transformer 1114 through inductor L2, and switches S18 and S19 connected between the other side of the double secondary winding and a common node (e.g., node 4) coupled to the opposite terminal of source 206. The push-pull configuration requires only two switches and is therefore more cost-effective than a full-bridge converter, although the switches have larger voltages applied across them.

[0165] Figure 11F is a block diagram depicting another exemplary embodiment of module 108D. In this embodiment, module 108D may have one or more transformers positioned between the PV source 1101 and the power connection 110 and one or more energy sources 206. Here, transformer 1130 can be used to transfer energy from the PV source 1101 to one or both of the power connection 110 and the energy sources 206, and can also be used to transfer energy back and forth between the power connection 110 and the energy sources 206. DC-AC converter 1104 is connected between ports 7 and 8 and transformer 1130. A first AC-DC converter 1116-1 is connected between transformer 1130 and converter 202A. The AC-DC converter 1116-1 can convert the AC signal from the transformer 1130 into a DC voltage supplied to the converter 202A, which can then convert the DC voltage into an AC signal output to the power connection 110 via ports 1 and 2. These elements can also operate in reverse, taking an AC signal from the power connection 110, converting the AC signal to a DC voltage by the converter 202A, and supplying the DC voltage to the AC-DC converter 1116-1 for conversion into an AC signal to be applied to the transformer 1130. A second AC-DC converter 1116-2 is connected between the transformer 1130 and the energy buffer 204 and energy source 206. The AC-DC converter 1116-2 can then convert the AC signal from the transformer 1130 into a DC voltage supplied to the energy buffer 204 and energy source 206, which will charge the energy source 206. Conversely, the DC voltage provided by the energy source 206 and / or energy buffer 204 can be applied to the AC-DC converter 1116-2, which then converts the DC voltage into an AC voltage applied to the transformer 1130.

[0166] Accordingly, in this embodiment and other embodiments described herein, the energy supplied by the various energy providers 1101, 110, and 206 is transferred to the transformer 1130 in the form of magnetic flux and can be selectively removed from the transformer 1130 by the AC-DC converter 1116 for output from the power connection 110 or charging of the source 206. Each of the converters 1104, 1116, and 202 can be locally controlled and monitored by a control system 102 (e.g., LCD 114) as described elsewhere herein, and coordination of operation between modules 108D can be achieved under a higher level of control of the control system 102 (e.g., MCD 112 communicating with each LCD 114). The control system 102 can monitor and / or estimate the energy supplied by the elements or interfaces to the transformer 1130 and control the extraction of energy by the elements or interfaces from the transformer 1130 so that they are equal. In addition to enabling energy exchange or transfer between various sources and sinks, the transformer 1130 also provides isolation and protection to the PV source 1101, converters 1104, 1116, and 202A, buffer 204, source 206, and power connection 110.

[0167] The LCD114 can monitor the status of converters 202A, 1104, 1116-1, and 1116-2 via data connections 118-3, 118-5, 118-9, and 118-10, respectively. These connections 118-3, 118-5, 118-9, and 118-10 can also supply control signals to control the switching of converters 202A, 1104, 1116-1, and 1116-2. The isolation of the LCD114 can be maintained by isolated circuits (e.g., isolated gate drivers and isolated sensors) present on lines 118-3, 118-5, 118-9, and 118-10.

[0168] LCD114 can also monitor the status of source 206 and buffer 204 via data connections 118-1 and 118-2, respectively. These connections 118-1 and 118-2 can also supply signals, such as control signals, from LCD114 to source 206 and buffer 204, respectively.

[0169] Each component 202A, 204, 205, 1104, and 1116 may include a monitoring network 208 configured to monitor (e.g., collect, sense, measure, and / or determine) one or more aspects of a component such as voltage, current, temperature, or other operating parameters that constitute status information (or, for example, can be used by the LCD 114 to determine the status information).

[0170] An additional energy source 206 can be applied to module 108D in Figure 1, if necessary. For example, the additional energy source 206 can be installed in parallel or in series with the one shown in Figure 11F. Alternatively, or in addition, an additional AC-DC converter 1116-2, buffer 204, and source 206 can be connected to transformer 1130. Multiple sets of these components can be connected to transformer 1130.

[0171] Figure 11G is a schematic diagram depicting an embodiment of module 108D of Figure 11F. The operation of most of these components has already been described herein and will not be repeated. In this embodiment, the core of transformer 1130 includes connections to three separate windings, each of which is connected to one of converters 1104, 1116-1, and 1116-2. Transformer 1130 and converters 1104 and 1116 can, alternatively, be implemented as push-pull converters or a combination of full-bridge and push-pull converters.

[0172] Figure 11H is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the converter module 108D. This embodiment is similar to module 108D in Figure 11F, but includes multiple DC interfaces. The first DC interface includes ports 7 and 8 for connection to a DC bus. The second DC interface includes ports 9 and 10 for connection to a PV source 1101. The third DC interface includes ports 11 and 12, which are configured to connect to a fuel cell 1111.

[0173] Module 108D also includes a DC-AC converter 1104 connected to a DC bus and a PV source 1101 and a fuel cell 1111. Ports 7 and 8 can be coupled to a DC bus, for example, a high-voltage DC bus, which supplies DC power from ports 7 and 8 to one or more DC loads, for example, an EV connected to an EV charging station. The DC-AC converter 1104-1 can convert the AC signal from the transformer 1130 into a DC voltage supplied to the DC bus. The DC-AC converter 1104-1 can also operate in reverse, converting the DC signal of the DC bus into an AC signal applied to the transformer 1130, in which case the DC power is received at ports 7 and 8 and transferred to one or more of the power interface 110, the energy source 206, and / or the fuel cell 1111 (if configured as a rechargeable fuel cell).

[0174] The DC-AC converter 1104-2 is connected between the transformer 1130 and the PV source 1101 via ports 9 and 10. The DC-AC converter 1104-2 can convert the DC signal from the PV source 1101 into an AC signal applied to the transformer 1130.

[0175] DC-AC converter 1104-3 is connected between transformer 1130 and fuel cell 1111 via ports 11 and 12. DC-AC converter 1104-2 can convert the DC signal from fuel cell 1111 into an AC signal applied to transformer 1130.

[0176] Module 108D may include other DC sources (e.g., other PV sources, other fuel cell sources, battery sources, HED capacitor sources, etc.), for example, one or more additional PV sources 1101 or fuel cells 1111, which are coupled to the transformer 1130 using DC-AC converters 104. In some embodiments, one or more of the DC-AC converters 1104 may be omitted. For example, an embodiment may include a DC-AC converter 1104-1 connected to a DC bus and a DC-AC converter 1104-2 connected to a PV source 1101, but without a DC-AC converter 1104-3 connected to a fuel cell 1111. Each DC-AC converter 1104 may be coupled to a separate winding of the transformer 1130. Additional windings may also be used to accommodate additional DC and / or AC interfaces.

[0177] The transformer 1130 can modify the AC voltage provided by the DC-AC converter 1104 to a lower or higher voltage and output the modified AC voltage to the AC-DC converter 1116. The AC-DC converters 1116-1 and 116-2 can operate as described herein, for example with reference to Figure 11H. The magnetic flux supplied by various energy sources 1101, 1111, 110, 206 and the DC bus is transferred to the transformer 1130 and can be selectively removed from the transformer 1130 by the AC-DC converter 1116 for output from the power connection 110 or for charging source 206.

[0178] This exemplary embodiment allows a DC bus, PV source 1101, fuel cell 1111, or AC source connected to converter 202A to charge source 206. Source 206 can then be discharged and converted to an AC signal by AC-DC converter 1116-2, which can be applied to transformer 1130. Transformer 1130 can modify the AC voltage (to a higher or lower voltage), and DC-AC converter 1104-1 can convert the modified AC voltage to a DC signal to power a load on the DC bus.

[0179] The transformer 1130 can therefore function as an energy hub, and each entity (e.g., external DC bus, PV source 1101, fuel cell 1111, interface 110, or energy source 206) can independently receive or provide energy to the hub, depending on the state of its entity and system. For example, when the PV source 1101 is producing energy, that energy can be placed in the transformer 1130 in the form of magnetic flux, extracted by converter 1116-2 and routed to source 206 for storage, extracted by converter 1116-1 and routed to interface 110, and / or extracted by converter 1104-1 and routed to the external DC bus, each of which may occur at separate times or simultaneously. The fuel cell 1111 can supply energy to a transformer 1130 such as a PV source 1101, and the energy can then be extracted in the same manner at different times or simultaneously by other converters 1116 and / or 1104-1. Similarly, energy can be supplied by an external DC bus at different times or simultaneously and routed to the source 206 and / or interface 110. Furthermore, energy can be supplied by interface 110 at different times or simultaneously and routed to the source 206 and / or external DC bus. The supply of energy to and removal of energy from the hub is managed by a control system 102, e.g., MCD 112, which provides instructions to the LCD 114 of each particular module 102D, which then generates control signals for the power electronics (e.g., MOSFETs, IGBTs, GaN devices) in each DC-AC converter 1104 and AC-DC converter 1116 of module 102D. The control system 102 can monitor and / or estimate the energy inflow into and outflow from the transformer 1130 and ensure that they are equal or substantially equal.

[0180] Figure 11I is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the converter module 108D. This embodiment is similar to module 108D in Figure 11H, but includes a plurality of AC interfaces 110. The first AC interface includes ports 1 and 2 and power connection 110-1. The second AC interface includes ports 13 and 14 and power connection 1102.

[0181] A first AC-DC converter 1116-1 is connected between transformer 1130 and converter 202A. As illustrated with reference to Figure 11F, AC-DC converter 1116-1 can convert the AC signal from transformer 1130 into a DC voltage supplied to converter 202A-1, which can then convert the DC voltage into an AC signal output to power connection 110-1 via ports 1 and 2. A third AC-DC converter 1116-3 is connected between transformer 1130 and converter 202A-2. AC-DC converter 1116-3 can convert the AC signal from transformer 1130 into a DC voltage supplied to converter 202A-3, which can then convert the DC voltage into an AC signal output to power connection 110-3 via ports 1 and 2.

[0182] AC-DC converters 1116-1 and 1116-3 can also operate in reverse. AC-DC converter 1116-1 can convert the DC signal from converter 202A-1 into an AC signal applied to transformer 1130. Similarly, AC-DC converter 1116-3 can convert the DC signal from converter 202A-3 into an AC signal applied to transformer 1130.

[0183] This exemplary embodiment allows module 108D to supply AC power to and / or receive AC power from two power connections 110. Module 108D can be connected to two AC buses. For example, power connection 110-1 can be connected to a first AC bus using ports 1 and 2, and power connection 110-2 can be connected to a second AC bus different from the first bus using ports 13 and 14. Each AC bus can be connected to a different AC source or AC load. For example, one AC bus can be connected to a power grid, and the other AC bus can be connected to a different AC source, for example, a wind power source 1112 (as depicted in Figure 12K). In another example, one AC bus can be connected to a power grid, and the other AC bus can be connected to a load.

[0184] This example includes AC-DC converters 1116-1 and 1116-3 and converters 202A-1 and 202A-2 to supply AC power to and / or receive AC power from two power connections 110, but module 108D may include three or more power connections and corresponding AC-DC converters 1116-1 and 1116-3 and connect to three or more power connections 110. Other modules 108D described herein may also include two or more of the same or similar AC interfaces to connect to two or more power connections 110.

[0185] Figure 11J is a block diagram depicting another exemplary embodiment of the converter module 108D. This embodiment is similar to module 108D in Figure 11H, except that the fuel cell 1111 is connected to the energy source 206 using a DC-DC converter 1108 that does not include a transformer, and the electrical path between the fuel cell 1111 and the source 206 does not cross any transformers (e.g., 1130). Such a configuration can be used in cases where electrical isolation is not required between the fuel cell 1111 and the source 206. Energy can be supplied by the fuel cell 1111 as desired, based on the current operating state, to flow into the source 206 and charge the source 206, and / or the energy can flow to the transformer 1130 so that it is led to module 108D or another element of the system. Such a transformerless connection can be used between other elements of module 108D (e.g., two sources 206) in cases where isolation is not required.

[0186] Any and all configurations of the system 100 described herein can be configured to receive energy from one or more PV sources 1101 using modules having a DC interface, such as the embodiments of module 108D described earlier. The system 100 can consist of a single array 700 or multiple arrays 700, each having any number of two or more modules 108D, and one or more of these arrays 700 can be electrically connected to a load and / or power grid. Each module 108D in a single array 700 can be integrated with and electrically connected to a different PV source 1101 and can be configured to receive energy from its dedicated PV source 1101. Alternatively, or in addition, each module 108D in a single array 700 can be electrically connected to the same PV source 1101 and configured to receive energy via a common DC bus connected to that PV source 1101. In embodiments involving multiple arrays 700, all arrays 700 of system 100 can be electrically connected to receive energy from the same single PV source 1101, or each array 700 of system 100 can be electrically connected to receive energy from different PV sources 1101. Furthermore, the arrays 700 of system 100 can be mixed such that one or more arrays 700 are connected to a single PV source 1101 via a DC bus, while one or more other arrays 700 have modules 108D, each independently connected to a dedicated PV source 1101.

[0187] Figure 12A is a block diagram depicting an array 700 of modules 108D-1 to 108D-N, where the AC interfaces at ports 1 and 2 are connected in a cascaded configuration. A single PV source 1101 is connected to all modules of the array 700 via a common DC bus 1102, such that modules 108D-1 to 108D-N are in parallel on the DC side. The PV source 1101 can output the DC voltage signals it generates, DC_PV+ and DC_PV-, to ports 7 and 8 of each module 108D, respectively, via bus 1102. As used herein, the DC bus 1102 may refer to a common bus shared by some or all of the modules 108D (as shown here), or to separate connections of ports 7 and 8 between the DC-side modules 108D (for example, as shown in Figures 12I to 12N).

[0188] Figure 12B is a block diagram depicting array 700 of modules 108D-1 to 108D-N, where the AC interfaces at ports 1 and 2 are connected in a cascaded configuration. Each module 108D-1 to 108D-N is independently connected to its own dedicated PV source 1101-1 to 1101-N via dedicated DC buses 1103-1 to 1103-N. Each PV source 1101-1 to 1101-N can output its independently generated DC voltage signals DC_PV+ and DC_PV- to ports 7 and 8 of each module 108D-1 to 108D-N via dedicated buses 1103-1 to 1103-N.

[0189] Figure 12C is a block diagram depicting an exemplary polyphase embodiment of system 100, where each of the three arrays 700-PA, 700-PB, and 700-PC includes modules 108D-1 to 108D-N, and the AC interfaces at ports 1 and 2 are connected in a cascaded configuration. Each of the arrays 700 is connected to the same PV source 1101 via a common DC bus 1102.

[0190] Figure 12D is a block diagram depicting an exemplary polyphase embodiment of system 100, where each of the three arrays 700-PA, 700-PB, and 700-PC includes modules 108D-1 to 108D-N, and the AC interfaces at ports 1 and 2 are connected in a cascaded configuration. Each of the arrays 700-PA, 700-PB, and 700-PC is connected to different PV sources 1101-1 to 1101-3 via different DC buses 1102-1 to 1102-3.

[0191] Figure 12E is a block diagram depicting an exemplary polyphase embodiment of system 100, where each of the three arrays 700-PA, 700-PB, and 700-PC includes modules 108D-1 to 108D-N, and the AC interfaces at ports 1 and 2 are connected in a cascaded configuration. Each of modules 108D-1 to 108D-N is connected to its own dedicated PV source 1101-1 to 1101-N, so that all modules 108D in system 100 are connected to different PV sources 1101.

[0192] Figure 12F is a block diagram depicting an exemplary polyphase embodiment of system 100, where each of the three arrays 700-PA, 700-PB, and 700-PC includes modules 108D-1 to 108D-N, and the AC interfaces at ports 1 and 2 are connected in a cascaded configuration. This embodiment is connected as a mixture of the configurations of Figures 12A and 12B. Here, module 108D of array 700-PA is connected to PV source 1101-A via DC bus 1102. Each of modules 108D-1 to 108D-N of arrays 700-PB and 700-PC is connected to a different PV source 1101-1 to 1101-N, respectively.

[0193] Each of the embodiments in Figures 12A-12F scales with one or more energy sources 206 per module 108D, providing a highly flexible arrangement for connecting with any number of different PV source configurations and interfaces. In addition to scaling the number of sources 206 per module 108D, the arrays 700 can be connected together in parallel. Figures 12G and 12H are block diagrams depicting exemplary embodiments, where multiple instances of the arrays 700 described with respect to Figures 12A and 12B, respectively, are connected in parallel. In Figure 12G, each DC port of each module is connected from the PV source 1101 to the appropriate DC bus line 1102. On the AC side, to install multiple arrays 700 in parallel, each module 108D-1 (port 1) is connected to a common node at SIO1, while each module 108D-N (port 2) is connected to a common node at SIO2.

[0194] Figure 12I is a block diagram depicting an exemplary polyphase embodiment of system 100, where each of the three arrays 700-PA, 700-PB, and 700-PC includes modules 108D-1 to 108D-N, and the AC interfaces at ports 1 and 2 are connected in a cascaded configuration. This embodiment is similar to the configuration in Figure 12C, except that the DC interface connections at ports 7 and 8 between modules 108D of arrays 700-PA, 700-PB, and 700-PC are connected in a single, continuous daisy-chain arrangement rather than in parallel.

[0195] In this daisy-chain configuration, the DC interfaces of module 108D in each array 700 are generally connected in series across all modules, except for those at series terminations (module 108D-1 in array 700-PA and module 108D-N in array 700-PC), by connecting port 8 of one module 108D to port 7 of another module 108D, etc., which allows module 108D to receive energy from the PV source 1101 in a controllable manner.

[0196] In this embodiment, the DC interface of each module 108D is connected in series from one module to the next, traversing the same level of each array 700, before moving to the next level. For example, module 108D-1 of array 700-PA is connected to module 108D-1 of array 700-PB, which is then connected to module 108D-1 of array 700-PC, which is then connected to module 108D-2 of array 700-PC, which is then connected to module 108D-2 of array 700-PB, and so on, until all modules 108D are connected in a daisy-chain. An alternative embodiment is depicted in Figure 12J, in which each module 108D of a particular array 700 is connected before the daisy chain proceeds to the next array, for example, module 108D-1 of array 700-PA is connected to module 108D-2 of array 700-PA, and the connection proceeds in series to module 108D-N of array 700-PA before proceeding directly to module 108D-1 of array 700-PB, and so on.

[0197] Figure 12K is a block diagram depicting exemplary polyphase embodiments of System 100, including multiple instances (e.g., groups) of Array 700 and a renewable AC source, which in this embodiment is a wind energy source 1112. Other AC sources can also be used as alternatives. The first instance 1210-1 includes three Arrays 700-PA1, 700-PB1, and 700-PC1, each containing modules 108D-1 to 108D-N, with AC interfaces (ports 1 and 2) connected in a cascaded configuration. The second instance 1210-2 includes three Arrays 700-PA2, 700-PB2, and 700-PC2, each containing modules 108D-1 to 108D-N, with AC interfaces (ports 1 and 2) connected in a cascaded configuration.

[0198] In Example 1210-1, the AC side (for example, the AC interface of each module) is coupled to the wind power source 1112 via ports SIO1-1, SIO2-1, and SIO3-1. Port 1 of module 108D-1 of array 700-PA1 is connected to port SIO1-1, port 1 of module 108D-1 of array 700-PB1 is connected to port SIO2-1, and port 1 of module 108D-1 of array 700-PC1 is connected to port SIO3-1. Each of the arrays 700-PA1, 700-PB1, and 700-PC1 is connected to a different phase of the wind power source 1112.

[0199] In Example 1210-2, the AC side is coupled to the AC bus via ports SIO1-2, SIO2-2, and SIO3-2. Port 1 of module 108D-1 of array 700-PA2 is connected to port SIO1-2, port 1 of module 108D-1 of array 700-PB2 is connected to port SIO2-2, and port 1 of module 108D-1 of array 700-PC2 is connected to port SIO3-2. Each of the arrays 700-PA3, 700-PB3, and 700-PC3 is connected to a different phase of the AC bus.

[0200] The DC interfaces of module 108D in each case 1210-1 and 1210-2 are connected in a daisy-chain configuration via DC bus 1102, with all module 108D DC interfaces in case 1210-1 and all module 108D DC interfaces in case 1210-2 installed in series. Each series chain of the two cases 1210-1 and 1210-2 is in parallel on the DC side. For example, port 7 of module 108D-1 in array 700-PA1 is connected to port 7 of module 108D-1 in array 700-PA2, and port 8 of module 108D-N in array 700-PC1 is connected to port 8 of module 108D-N in array 700-PC2. This configuration allows all module 108D in both cases 1210 within system 100 to exchange energy with any other module.

[0201] This embodiment enables various charging configurations using two different AC sources, for example, a wind power source 1112 connected to ports SIO1-2, SIO2-2, and SIO3-2, or a power grid. In one configuration, module 108D in example 1210-1 can be charged by the wind power source 1112, and module 108D in example 1210-2 can be charged by the power grid. Modules 108D in both examples 1210-1 and 1210-2 can be charged simultaneously by their respective AC sources.

[0202] In an alternative configuration, both module 108D in examples 1210-1 and 1210-2 can be charged by the wind power source 1112. The module 108D in example 1210-2 can also be charged by the wind power source 1112-2 using the DC bus 1102 to transfer energy from module 108D in example 1210-1 to module 108D in example 1210-2.

[0203] In an alternative configuration, both module 108D in Examples 1210-1 and 1210-2 can be charged by the power grid. The module 108D in Example 1210-1 can also be charged by the power grid using the DC bus 1102 to transfer energy from the module 108D in Example 1210-2 to the module 108D in Example 1210-1.

[0204] Therefore, this embodiment provides flexibility in charging modules 108D in multiple cases 1210. This configuration can be extended to three or more cases and three or more AC sources. Daisy-chaining the DC interfaces of the modules 108D in each case 1210 allows each AC source to charge each module 108D in each case 1210.

[0205] Figure 12L is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary polyphase embodiment of system 100, which includes array 700 and wind power source 1112. Each array 700-PA, 700-PB, and 700-PC includes modules 108D-1 to 108D-N connected in a cascaded configuration.

[0206] Here, each module 108D includes two AC interfaces: a first AC interface including ports 1 and 2, and a second interface including ports 13 and 14. For example, module 108D can be implemented using module 108D in Figure 11I.

[0207] The first interfaces of module 108D-1 of arrays 700-PA1, 700-PB1, and 700-PC1 are coupled to wind power source 1112 via ports SIO1-1, SIO2-1, and SIO3-1, respectively. The second interfaces of module 108D-1 are connected to an AC bus (e.g., connected to a power grid) via ports SIO1-1, SIO2-1, and SIO3-1, respectively.

[0208] The DC interfaces of each array 700 module 108D are connected in a daisy-chain configuration via the DC bus 1102, with the DC interfaces placed in series. This allows the modules 108D to exchange energy, as illustrated with reference to Figure 12I.

[0209] This embodiment allows modules 108D of arrays 700-PA1, 700-PB1, and 700-PC1 to be charged by a wind power source 1112 and / or a power grid (or other AC source) connected to an AC bus. For example, the control system 102 can use AC signals in ports 1 and 2 to operate the converter 202A-1 of each module 108D and charge the power source 206 of that module 108D. Similarly, the control system 102 can use AC signals in ports 13 and 14 to operate the converter 202A-2 of each module 108D and charge the power source 206 of that module 108D.

[0210] In this embodiment, the DC bus 1102 is connected to an external DC bus via I / O ports SIO7 and SIO8. This external DC bus can be used to supply power to a DC load or to receive power from a DC energy provider such as a PV source 1101. For example, the external DC bus may include or be connected to a charging interface for charging an EV. Each of the embodiments described with respect to Figures 12I-12N may be configured with or without the interfaces of ports SIO7 and SIO8 for connection to the external DC bus, depending on the needs of the implementation.

[0211] Figure 12M is a block diagram depicting exemplary polyphase embodiments of system 100, including multiple examples 1210-1 and 1210-2 of array 700 and a wind power source 1112. Example 1210-1 includes arrays 700-PA1, 700-PB1, and 700-PC1, and Example 1210-2 includes arrays 700-PA2, 700-PB2, and 700-PC2. Each of Examples 1210-1 and 1210-2 may be that of the array 700 arranged in Figure 12I, or similar thereto.

[0212] Each module 108D includes two AC interfaces, one connected to the wind power source 1112 and the other connected to an AC bus, for example, the power grid. In this example, the AC sides of examples 1210-1 and 1210-2 are connected in parallel to the wind power source 1112 and the AC bus.

[0213] In particular, the first AC interface of module 108D-1 of array 700-PA1 and the first AC interface of module 108D-1 of array 700-PA2 are connected to the wind power source 1112 via port SIO1-1. The second AC interface of module 108D-1 of array 700-PB1 and the first AC interface of module 108D-1 of array 700-PB2 are connected to the wind power source 1112 via port SIO2-1. The first AC interface of module 108D-1 of array 700-PC1 and the first AC interface of module 108D-1 of array 700-PC2 are connected to the wind power source 1112 via port SIO3-1.

[0214] Similarly, the second AC interface of module 108D-1 of array 700-PA1 and the first AC interface of module 108D-1 of array 700-PA2 are coupled to the AC bus via ports SIO1-2. The second AC interface of module 108D-1 of array 700-PB1 and the second AC interface of module 108D-1 of array 700-PB2 are coupled to the AC bus via ports SIO2-2. The second AC interface of module 108D-1 of array 700-PC1 and the second AC interface of module 108D-1 of array 700-PC2 are coupled to the AC bus via ports SIO3-2.

[0215] The DC interfaces (ports 7 and 8) of module 108D in Example 1210-1 are connected in a series-chain configuration, similar to the DC interfaces of module 108D in Example 1210-2. The two series chains are in parallel, similar to the embodiment in Figure 12K. This configuration allows module 108D in both examples to exchange energy, as described with reference to Figure 12I.

[0216] Similar to the embodiment in Figure 12K, this embodiment allows for various charging configurations using two different AC sources connected to ports SIO1-2, SIO2-2, and SIO3-2, for example, a wind power source 1112 or a power grid. In this example, each module 108D in each example 1210 can be charged directly from either of the AC sources (for example, without using the DC interface of module 108D).

[0217] In one configuration, the module 108D in Example 1210-1 can be charged by the wind power source 1112 using the first AC interface of each module 108D, and the module 108D in Example 1210-2 can be charged by the power grid using the second AC interface of each module 108D. In another configuration, the module 108D in Example 1210-1 can be charged by the power grid using the second AC interface of each module 108D, and the module 108D in Example 1210-2 can be charged by the wind power source 1112 using the first AC interface of each module 108D.

[0218] In an alternative configuration, all modules 108D in both Examples 1210-1 and 1210-2 can be charged simultaneously by the same AC source, such as a wind power source 1112 or the power grid. In another configuration, one or more modules 108D in Example 1210-1 can be charged by the wind power source 1112, while one or more other modules 108D in Example 1210-1 can be charged by the power grid. Similarly, one or more modules 108D in Example 1210-2 can be charged by the wind power source 1112, while one or more other modules 108D in Example 1210-2 can be charged by the power grid.

[0219] In this embodiment, the DC bus 1102 is connected to an external DC bus via I / O ports SIO7 and SIO8. This external DC bus can be used to charge a load. For example, the external DC bus may include or be connected to a charging interface for charging an EV.

[0220] Figure 12N is a block diagram depicting an exemplary polyphase embodiment of system 100, including multiple examples 1210-1 and 1210-2 of array 700 and a wind power source 1112. On the DC side of module 108D, this embodiment is the same as system 100 in Figure 12M, with the same daisy-chain arrangement. However, the configuration on the AC side is different.

[0221] Here, each example 1210-1 and 1210-2 is separately connected to its respective wind power source 1112 and AC bus. In particular, the first AC interface of module 108D-1 of each array 700 in example 1210-1 is connected to wind power source 1112-1 via ports SIO1-1, SIO2-1, and SIO3-1. The second AC interface of module 108D-1 of each array 700 in example 1210-1 is connected to the AC bus via ports SIO1-2, SIO2-2, and SIO3-2.

[0222] Similarly, in Example 1210-2, the first AC interface of module 108D-1 of each array 700 is connected to the wind power source 1112-2 via ports SIO1-3, SIO2-3, and SIO3-3. The second AC interface of module 108D-1 of each array 700 in Example 1210-2 is connected to the AC bus via ports SIO1-4, SIO2-4, and SIO3-4.

[0223] This embodiment allows each module 108D in example 1210 to be charged by either its wind power source 1112 or the power grid connected to its AC bus. The DC side daisy-chain of modules 108D also allows each module 108D in example 1210 to exchange energy. Thus, the module 108D in example 1210-1 can also be charged by either the wind power source 1112-2 or the AC bus connected to ports SIO1-4, SIO2-4, and SIO3-4. Similarly, the module 108D in example 1210-2 can also be charged by either the wind power source 1112-1 or the AC bus connected to ports SIO1-2, SIO2-2, and SIO3-2. This provides additional charging flexibility and backup charging capability in the event of a failure of any of the AC sources connected to system 100.

[0224] In all of the aforementioned embodiments having a module 108D with connections to the DC side via ports 7 and 8 (for example, the embodiments described with respect to Figures 12A-12N), the voltage across the port 7 and port 8 interfaces of each module can be set and adjusted under the control of the control system 102. For example, the control system 102 can adjust the voltage across the LC circuit 1118 using a converter network connected to the LC circuit 1118 (for example, converter 1100 in Figure 11C, converter 1110 in Figures 11D and 11E, and converter 1104 in Figure 11G). This control of the voltage across ports 7 and 8 can perform various functions.

[0225] The voltage across ports 7 and 8 of module 108D can be set or adjusted to match the voltage of PV source 1101. The voltage produced by PV source 1101 can be monitored in real time by system 100, and the voltage of module 108D can be simultaneously adjusted to an optimal level (e.g., maximum power point tracking control). For example, in the embodiment of Figure 12A, each module 108D-1 to 108D-N can be set to match the voltage across ports 7 and 8 to the output voltage DC_PV of a single PV source 1101. In the embodiment of Figure 12B, each module 108D-1 to 108D-N can be set to match the voltage across ports 7 and 8 to the voltage DC_PV generated by the PV sources 1101-1 to 1101-N associated with that module. In the embodiment shown in Figure 12I, since all modules 108D are in series on the DC side, the voltages across ports 7 and 8 of each module 108D can be set such that the sum of all the voltages of all modules 108D in the three arrays 700 equals the voltage generated by the PV source 1101.

[0226] These voltage settings can also be used to compensate for modules with source 206 having relatively lower SOC levels. For example, in the embodiment of Figure 12I, a first module 108D having a relatively lower SOC than the other modules can have the voltage across ports 7 and 8 set higher than that of the other modules so that that particular first module receives more power from the PV source 1101 than the others (assuming all modules experience the same input current on the DC side), and therefore raises its SOC level relative to the others. Thus, system 100 can implement balancing on the DC side and even compensate for SOC or temperature imbalance. Such balancing can also be implemented without the presence of the PV source 1101, as in the embodiments of Figures 12K-12N. For example, as described with respect to Figure 12K, the energy input from the wind source 1112 to module 108D in example 1210-1 is transferred to one or more modules 108D in example 1210-2 using these DC interfaces and bus 1102, thereby maintaining equilibrium of the SOC levels of the source 206 in modules 108D in both examples 1210-1 and 1210-2, and vice versa.

[0227] Energy does not have to be passed only between sources 206; energy can be passed from any element or interface of any module 108D that receives or generates energy (e.g., AC interfaces at ports 1 and 2, PV source 1101, fuel cell 1111, source 206) to any element or connection of another module 108D that outputs or stores energy across the DC interfaces at ports 7 and 8 (e.g., AC interfaces at ports 1 and 2, source 206).

[0228] To carry out such energy exchange, the control system 102 can monitor the SOC level of each source 206 in the system 100 and adjust the transfer of relatively more energy to those sources 206 that require greater compensation. Based on the information collected by the LCD 114 and reported to the MCD 112, the MCD 112 can then instruct each LCD 114 to control the converter network of the associated module 108D (or multiple modules 108D) in a manner that will transfer energy to those modules 108D that require it. This can be carried out using pulse width modulation techniques that utilize a reference signal, a carrier signal, and a modulation index, as described herein with respect to Figures 8A-9B.

[0229] The preceding description concerns a control system 102 for setting the voltage across the DC interfaces of ports 7 and 8 for any module 108D having two or more DC interfaces (for example, one crossing ports 7 and 8, another crossing ports 9 and 10, etc.). However, the description of setting the DC interface voltage applies similarly to all two or more DC interfaces present on module 108D. Each DC interface may have a separate LC circuit 1118. Thus, the control system 102 can set the DC interface voltage across ports 7 and 8 to one value and the DC interface voltage across ports 9 and 10 to a second value. For example, it may be used in a case where energy exchange between modules 108D is performed via one of the two DC interfaces, and power point tracking control for a PV source 1101 is performed via the other of the two DC interfaces.

[0230] In general, the module 108D of system 100 as depicted in Figures 12A-12N can be implemented using any module 108D as depicted in Figures 11A-11J. However, system 100 using a module 108D with two AC interfaces, for example, the module 108D of system 100 in Figures 12L-12N, can be implemented using the module 108D of Figure 11I.

[0231] The various configurations of System 100 depicted in Figures 12A-12N can be used for many different applications. In one example, System 100 can be used for an EV charging station. In this example, the PV array can be installed at the EV charging station, and other components of System 100 (e.g., source 206, converters 202, 1104, 1116, buffer 204, fuel cell 1111, transformer 1130) can be connected to containers in other suitable enclosures. One or more wind sources 1112 can also be connected to or near the EV charging station, or an AC bus connected to each wind source 1112 can be routed to the EV charging station. Similarly, an AC bus connected to the grid can be routed to the EV charging station. These configurations provide substantial flexibility in buffering energy and charging EVs using renewable energy sources and / or the grid.

[0232] In all PV embodiments described herein, the voltage and / or current produced by the PV source 1101 can be monitored by monitoring the network, and their values ​​can be output to the control system 102 (e.g., to the LCD 114, or, using the LCD 114, to the MCD 112). Based on this information, the control system 102 can then control the converter network of module 108D and route the produced PV energy to an appropriate location, such as for storage and energy source 206, or for output to power connection 110 and supply to a power grid or load connected to system I / O ports (e.g., SIO1, SIO2, SIO3, SIO4). (Exemplary embodiment of a frame structure)

[0233] This subject relates to enclosure frameworks (e.g., cabinets or racks of a matching size) that allow for easy customization to add to or reduce the number of modules 108 present in the converter system 100. Exemplary embodiments of the frameworks are described with reference to Figures 13A–14C. These embodiments can be implemented with any aspect of the system 100 described herein, unless otherwise stated or unless it is logically unbelievable. Thus, many of the modifications already described will not be repeated with respect to the following embodiments.

[0234] Figure 13A is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a housing frame structure 1300 for housing a multiphase system 100. Figures 13B and 13C show front and perspective views of an exemplary electronic equipment cabinet 1301, also referred to as a “rack” when suitable for use in a frame structure, respectively. Other designs for cabinets or racks having the characteristic of arranging electronic components in a straight line, for example, a vertical line, may also be suitable. Figure 13D illustrates an exemplary implementation of multiple cabinets 1301 arranged within the frame structure 1300.

[0235] As can be seen from Figure 13A, for each array 700, modules 108-1 to 108-N (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 racks along a first straight line 1302, facilitating direct connections between modules within each array 700. For example, modules 108 may be aligned in separate rows parallel to the horizontal line 1302. Connections between modules 108 may be in series or parallel. In the illustrated example, modules 108-1 to 108-N of array 700-PA are in the upper row, modules 108-1 to 108-N of array 700-PB are in the middle row, and modules 108-1 to 108-N of array 700-PC are in the lower row.

[0236] Modules 108 for each level of the converter system 100 are aligned in separate racks along a second straight line 1304 perpendicular to a first straight line 1302. For example, modules 108 may be aligned in separate columns parallel to the vertical line 1304. Lines 1302 and 1304 may be imaginary lines. The alignment of modules 108 with the lines does not need to be geometrically perfect, but should be close enough to facilitate efficient electrical connections between modules 108. Advantageously, modules 108 for each level may be located within a common cabinet or rack section 1301. For example, in the illustrated example, the first cabinet 1301-1 houses the first level module 108-1, the second cabinet 1301-2 houses the second level module 108-2, the third cabinet 1301-3 houses the third level module 108-3, and the Nth cabinet 1301-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 frame structure 1300 can be easily added (and reduced) to meet those needs by adding or removing cabinets 1301. The maximum number of cabinets 1301 is limited only by the practical limits of space for the frame structure 1300 and the operating parameters of the particular application.

[0237] Exemplary embodiments of a single cabinet or rack section 1301 are shown in Figures 13B and 13C. Figure 13D shows a framework structure 1300 of 13 cabinets or rack sections on the right, the first three of the 13 shown with front panels in place, and the rest shown without front panels. Each cabinet or rack section 1301 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, covers, or other insulating bodies are present over high-voltage conductors for safety.

[0238] Figures 14A–14C are block diagrams illustrating exemplary embodiments of the phase and module-based arrangement of modules and connections within a multiphase module-based energy system framework structure 1300. Figure 14A depicts a front view of module 108 arranged within a cabinet, and Figures 14B and 14C depict exemplary rear views of module 108 arranged within a cabinet. However, the front and rear views can be reversed such that Figure 14A depicts a rear view and Figures 14B and 14C depict a front view, or that Figure 14A may depict a certain side, while each of Figures 14B and 14C may depict the opposite, orthogonal, side, or otherwise different side from the side depicted in Figure 14A.

[0239] As shown in Figures 11A-12M, module 108D may have one or more DC interfaces and one or more AC interfaces. In many examples, the DC interfaces are on one side of module 108D, and the AC interfaces are on the opposite side of module 108D, e.g., the opposite side. Many of these interfaces are used to electrically couple modules 108 of array 700 or multiple arrays 700 together. The ports of each module 108 can be connected such that the ports of the DC interfaces (e.g., ports 7 and 8) are on one side of module 108, and the ports of the AC interfaces (e.g., ports 1, 2, 13, and 14) are on the opposite side of module 108. Thus, the AC interfaces can be accessed from one side of cabinet 1301, and the DC interfaces can be accessed from the opposite side of cabinet 1301. This allows for a simpler and more compact arrangement of busbars (or other suitable connectors) connecting modules 108 along these ports within cabinet 1301. Reducing or minimizing connection lengths can reduce losses and costs.

[0240] In the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 14A-14C, the connections between AC interfaces are on the front side of the cabinet 1301 or beyond them, and the connections between DC interfaces are on the rear side of the cabinet 1301 or beyond them. In this example, each module 108 includes a plurality of energy sources 206-1 and 206-2 and a converter housing 222. The converter housing 222 can house a plurality of electronic components, including at least one converter 202 (e.g., converter 202A in Figure 6A or converter 202B in Figure 6B) and an LCD 114. The converter housing 222 can also house at least one converter 1104 and optionally at least one converter 1116.

[0241] The converter enclosure 222 may include various I / O ports for electrically coupling components within the enclosure 222 to other components. The converter enclosure 222 may include two pairs of ports IO1 and IO2 for electrically coupling energy sources 206-1 and 206-2 to one or more components within the enclosure 222. For example, ports IO1-1 and IO2-1 are electrically coupled to ports IO1 and IO2 of energy source 206-1, and ports IO1-2 and IO2-2 are electrically coupled to ports IO1 and IO2 of energy source 206-1. Within the enclosure 222, each pair of ports IO1 and IO2 of the enclosure 222 is electrically coupled to one or more components, for example, converter 202 and / or buffer 204 (for example, Figures 11A-11B, 11F, 11H, 11I, 11J).

[0242] The converter enclosure 222 also includes ports IO3, IO4, and IO7, IO8, respectively, for coupling to the AC interface and DC interface. Ports IO3 and IO4 of enclosure 222 can be electrically coupled to ports 1 and 2 of module 108D, which in turn are electrically coupled to ports IO3 and IO4 of converter 202 within enclosure 222 (e.g., Figures 11A-11B, 11F, 11H-11J). Ports IO7 and IO8 of enclosure 222 can be electrically coupled to ports 7 and 8 of module 108D, which in turn are electrically coupled to ports IO1 and IO2 of converter 1104 within enclosure 222 (e.g., Figures 11A-11B, 11F, 11H-11J). Although not shown, the enclosure 222 may electrically couple additional DC interfaces and / or additional AC interfaces of any additional converters 202, 1104, 1116 within the enclosure 222 to external components and may include additional ports for accommodating any of the modules 108D in Figures 11H-11J.

[0243] In some embodiments, ports of various components within the housing 222 can be transmitted through the housing 222 and exposed to the outside of the housing 222 without, for example, the housing 222 containing intermediate ports. In such embodiments, ports shown within the housing 222 in Figures 14A-14C may correspond to ports of components within the housing 222. For example, ports IO1 and IO2 shown within the housing 222 may correspond to ports IO1 and IO2 of converter 202, respectively; ports IO3 and IO4 shown within the housing 222 may correspond to ports IO3 and IO4 of converter 202, respectively; and ports IO7 and IO8 shown within the housing 222 may correspond to ports 7 and 8 of module 108D (for example, ports IO1 and IO2 of converter 1104), respectively.

[0244] Each cabinet 1301 may consist of existing receptacles (e.g., shelves, slots, or recesses) for receiving each module 108. Alternatively, cabinet 1301 may have receptacles for independently receiving each component of module 108 (e.g., converters 202, 1104, 1116, LCD 114, etc., source 206, and / or buffer 204) (e.g., a receptacle for the energy source 206 of the first module, a receptacle for the converter 202 of the first module, a receptacle for each energy source 206 of the first module, etc.). In these embodiments, the term “module” encompasses multiple separate components that perform the function of a single module but are electrically connected together without a dedicated single enclosure for that module.

[0245] Each energy source 206 may consist of multiple types and configurations, for example, as described herein with respect to Figures 4A-4F. Within each module 108, the LCD 114 communicates with a converter network 202A, an energy buffer 204 (not shown), and a monitor network 208 (not shown) associated with various components.

[0246] Power connections within or between cabinets 1301 (for example, between each energy source 206 and its converters 202, 1116, or between converters 202, 1104, 1116) 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 fixed in place.

[0247] The data connection (for example, between MCD112 and LCD114 or between LCD114s) is preferably a high-speed bidirectional connection such as an optical fiber, but other wired or wireless connections are also possible. In the example in Figure 14A, each LCD114 in the phase or array is daisy-chained using a wired connection indicated by a communication (com) port (as described in Figure 1A). In embodiments where the LCD114s are daisy-chained, a master control signal can first be supplied to any module 108 in the array 700, and thus they are subsequently supplied to each module in the array 700. In one exemplary implementation, a signal from MCD112 is input to the LCD114 of module 108-1 and then propagated to the remaining modules (2-N) in its array 200. All signals (sensor information, M, Vref, etc.) can be exchanged via one port and bus, or multiple ports and buses can be used.

[0248] The sides of each cabinet 1301 may have ports, openings, or other passages or connections to allow for 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 nearly adjacent without intervening barriers.”

[0249] In an alternative embodiment, the frame structure may include a backplane for transporting 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 mesh with a connector on the back of its cabinet receptacle, and the connector may be configured to couple with one or more buses on the backplane for transporting signals through the frame structure.

[0250] Figure 14A illustrates an example of a connection between the AC interfaces of module 108. The connection can be located within a cabinet 1301 for any system 100 described herein. Referring to Figure 14A within each phase, converters 202, 1104, 1116 of one module 108 in the first cabinet 1301 are connected to at least one other horizontally aligned converter 202 in an adjacent cabinet 1301. For example, port IO4 of converter 202 of module 1 in phase A in cabinet 1301-2 is connected to port IO3 of converter 202 of module 2 in array A in cabinet 1301-2 using the electrical connection between the ports of the respective housings 222 of the converter. This is an example of an electrical connection between the AC interfaces of two modules 202. The horizontally aligned arrangement between coupled components allows for short and direct connections for the bars, which further minimizes inductance, noise, and losses.

[0251] Busbars connecting ports on chassis 222 for the AC interface of module 202 in one cabinet 1301 to ports on chassis 222 for the AC interface of module 202 in another cabinet 1301 can be routed along the front of the cabinets 1301. These busbars can be routed through ports, openings, or other passages between the cabinets 1301.

[0252] For example, as described herein with reference to Figures 11I and 12L-12N, module 108D may have multiple AC interfaces. Cabinet 1301 may include busbars (or other connectors) for each AC interface of each module 108D.

[0253] The power connections between each converter 202 and its energy source 206 can be located on either side of the cabinet 1301. Two connections exist between each energy source 206 and the converter 202, for example, positive and negative DC connections. One connection between energy source 206-1 and converter 202 (for example, between port IO1 of energy source 206-1 and port IO1-1 of the enclosure 222 containing converter 202) can be located along the front of the cabinet 1301, and the other connection between energy source 206-1 and converter 202 (for example, between port IO2 of energy source 206-1 and port IO2-1 of the enclosure 222 containing converter 202) can be located along the back of the cabinet 1301 (Figures 14B-14C).

[0254] Similarly, one connection between the energy source 206-2 and the converter 202 (for example, between port IO2 of the energy source 206-2 and port IO2-2 of the enclosure 222 containing the converter 202) can be routed along the front side of the cabinet 1301, and the other connection between the energy source 206-2 and the converter 202 (for example, between port IO1 of the energy source 206-2 and port IO1-2 of the enclosure 222 containing the converter 202) can be routed along the back or rear side of the cabinet 1301 (Figures 14B-14C). Such separation allows for the use of connections of minimal length, reducing losses and costs.

[0255] Figure 14B illustrates an example of the connections between the DC interfaces of module 108. In this example, the DC interfaces of module 108 within cabinet 1301 (for example, within the levels of a multilevel converter system) are electrically coupled. For example, port IO8 of converter 1104 of phase A module 108 in each cabinet 1301 is electrically coupled to port IO7 of converter 1104 of phase B module 108 in the same cabinet 1301. Similarly, port IO8 of converter 1104 of phase B module 108 in each cabinet 1301 is electrically coupled to port IO7 of converter 1104 of phase C module 108 in the same cabinet 1301.

[0256] In addition, port IO7 of the converter 1104 of the phase A module 108 in each cabinet 1301 and port IO8 of the converter 1104 of the phase C module 108 in each cabinet 1301 are connected, for example, to separate DC buses or to the same DC bus in parallel. In this example, port IO7 of the phase A module 108 is connected to DC+, and port IO8 of the phase C module 108 is connected to DC-. The electrical connection between ports IO7 and IO8 of the enclosure 222 corresponding to these ports of module 1104 can be made using busbars or other suitable connectors routed along the back of the cabinet 1301. The connection to the DC bus is indicated at the top and bottom of the cabinet 1301, but the conductors of the DC bus can enter the cabinet 1301 through passages at the top, bottom, or both sides of the cabinet 1301.

[0257] Figure 14C illustrates another example of connections between the DC interfaces of module 108. This example illustrates, for example, a daisy-chain connection between DC interfaces similar to those in Figure 12I. In this example, port IO8 of converter 1104 of phase A module in each cabinet 1301 is electrically coupled to port IO7 of converter 1104 of phase B module 108 in the same cabinet 1301. Similarly, port IO8 of converter 1104 of phase B module 108 in each cabinet 1301 is electrically coupled to port IO7 of converter 1104 of phase C module 108 in the same cabinet 1301.

[0258] Port IO8 of converter 1104 of the phase C module in cabinet 1301-1 is electrically coupled to port IO7 of the phase C module in cabinet 1301-2. Port IO7 of converter 1104 of phase A module 108 in cabinet 1301-2 is electrically coupled to port IO7 of converter 1104 of the phase A module in the next cabinet (e.g., cabinet 1301-N). Busbars making these inter-cabinet connections can be routed along the back of cabinet 1301. These busbars can be routed through ports, openings, or other passages between cabinets 1301.

[0259] In addition, port IO7 of converter 1104 of phase A module 1 and port IO8 of converter 1104 of phase C module N within cabinet 1301-1 are connected to the DC bus. In this example, port IO7 of phase A module 108 is connected to DC+, and port IO8 of phase C module 108 is connected to DC-. These connections are shown at the top and bottom of cabinet 1301, but conductors of the DC bus can enter cabinet 1301 through passages at the top, bottom, or sides of cabinet 1301.

[0260] Figures 14B and 14C show two exemplary arrangements of connections between the DC interfaces of module 108. The connections can be located within a cabinet 1301 for any system 100 described herein. For example, as described herein with reference to Figures 11H-11J, module 108D may have multiple DC interfaces. The cabinet 1301 may include busbars (or other connectors) for each DC interface of each module 108D. (Examples of second-life energy sources)

[0261] Embodiments of module 108 described herein improve the life of source 206, for example, by maintaining source 206 at a preferred (or optimal) temperature and charge / discharge conditions. The structure and / or topology of module 108 also enable second-life applications of module 108 and / or their source 206 without major changes to module 108, and also enable accurate measurement and evaluation of the remaining life of source 206 at the end of its life.

[0262] The first life of Source 206 is the original application in which Source 206 is used. For example, a first life application is the first implementation of Source 206 used by the first customer of Source 206 after its original manufacture (not modification). Users of Source 206 in those first life applications would typically have received Source 206 from a manufacturer, distributor, or original equipment manufacturer (OEM). Batteries 206 used in first life applications would typically have the same electrochemical properties (e.g., the same variation of lithium-ion electrochemical properties (e.g., LFP, NMC)), the same nominal voltage, and minimal capacity variation across packs or systems (e.g., less than 5%). The combined use of energy storage systems and batteries 206 in those first life applications results in batteries 206 having a longer lifespan in that first life application, and upon removal from that first life application, batteries 206 would be more similar in terms of capacity degradation than batteries from first life applications without energy storage systems.

[0263] As used herein, “second life” application refers to any application or implementation of Source 206 after its first life application (e.g., secondary implementation, tertiary implementation, quaternary implementation, etc.). A second life energy source refers to any energy source implemented in the second life application of that source (e.g., a battery or HED capacitor).

[0264] An example of a first-life application for battery 206 is within an energy storage system for an EV. Then, at the end of its life (e.g., after 100,000 miles of operation or after a threshold degradation of the battery in its battery pack), battery 206 can be removed from the battery pack, optionally refurbished and tested, and then implemented in a second-life application, which may be used in, for example, a static energy storage system (e.g., residential, commercial, or industrial energy buffers, EV charging station energy buffers, renewable source energy buffers (e.g., wind, solar, hydroelectric), etc.) or another mobile energy storage system (e.g., a battery pack for an electric vehicle, bus, train, or truck). Similarly, the first-life application may initially be a static application, and the second-life application may be either static or mobile.

[0265] Figure 15A depicts an energy storage system 100 having multiple modules 108 that are electrically connected together in a cascaded manner to provide energy for a load or a power grid, or to receive energy from a load or a power grid. As described herein, the modules 108 can be electrically connected in various configurations, for example, in one or more arrays 700. The energy source 206 of the energy storage system 100 may be referred to as the first-life energy source, since the energy storage system 100 is its original use and the source 206 is used in its original use.

[0266] System 100 can be configured to supply power to one or more motors, for example, one or more motors of an EV. For example, System 100 can be configured so that the EV has one, two, three, four, or more motors.

[0267] After module 108 has been used in its initial application, module 108 and / or the source 206 of module 108 can be used in a second-life application, as shown in Figure 15B. When used in a second-life application, the source 206 may be referred to as a second-life energy source 206. Second-life applications may include static energy storage systems 100 (e.g., residential, commercial, or industrial energy buffers, EV charging station energy buffers, renewable sources, energy buffers, etc.).

[0268] Module 108 and / or its source 206 may be tested and / or repaired prior to use in Second Life applications. In some cases, module 108 may be reconfigured for use in Second Life applications, for example, by being placed in a different enclosure and installed in a Second Life rack.

[0269] For second-life applications, sources 206 can be selected and / or utilized by system 100 to minimize (or at least reduce) any differences in initial capacitance and nominal voltage. For example, sources 206 with a capacitance difference of 5% or more can be included in system 100 and operated to provide energy for a load. In another example, an operator or automated system may select sources 206 having different capacitances within a threshold amount for the system, for example, to reduce the initial capacitance difference between sources in system 206. If module 108 is suitable for both first-life and second-life applications (e.g., with or without reconfiguration), module 108 can be selected for second-life applications based on the capacitance difference of the sources 206 in module 108.

[0270] System 100 can individually adjust the utilization of each source 206, thereby allowing System 100 or the sources 206 within a pack of System 100 to be relatively balanced in terms of State of Charge (SOC) or total charge (SOC × capacity) when the pack or System 100 is discharged, even if the sources 206 within System 100 may have widely fluctuating capacities. Similarly, System 100 can maintain balance when the pack or System 100 is charged. The sources 206 can vary not only in terms of capacity but also in terms of nominal voltage, power rating, electrochemical type (e.g., combination of LFP and NMC batteries), etc. Therefore, System 100 can be used such that all modules 206 within System 100 or each pack of System 100 are second-life energy sources having various combinations of different characteristics (or so that a combination of first-life energy sources and second-life energy sources is used).

[0271] For example, system 100 may include a second-life energy source 206 (and optionally one or more first-life energy sources 206) having energy capacity variations of 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more, 30% or more, 5-30%, 10-30%, and / or 20-30%.

[0272] In another example, system 100 may include second-life energy sources 206 (and optionally one or more first-life energy sources 206) having energy capacity / mass density variations of 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more, 30% or more, 5-30%, 10-30%, and / or 20-30%.

[0273] In another example, system 100 may include a second-life energy source 206 (and optionally one or more first-life energy sources 206) having peak power / mass density fluctuations of 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more, 30% or more, 5-30%, 10-30%, and / or 20-30%.

[0274] In another example, system 100 may include a second-life energy source 206 (and optionally one or more first-life energy sources 206) having nominal voltage fluctuations of 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more, 30% or more, 5-30%, 10-30%, and / or 20-30%.

[0275] In another example, system 100 may include a second-life energy source 206 (and optionally one or more first-life energy sources 206) having operating voltage range variations of 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more, 30% or more, 5-30%, 10-30%, and / or 20-30%.

[0276] In another example, system 100 may include a second-life energy source 206 (and optionally one or more first-life energy sources 206) having a maximum specified current rise time variation of 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more, 30% or more, 5-30%, 10-30%, and / or 20-30%.

[0277] In another example, system 100 may include a second-life energy source 206 (and optionally one or more first-life energy sources 206) having specified peak current fluctuations of 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more, 30% or more, 5-30%, 10-30%, and / or 20-30%.

[0278] In another example, system 100 may include a second-life energy source 206 (and optionally one or more first-life energy sources 206) having variations in electrochemical type (e.g., lithium-ion batteries with variations in non-lithium-ion batteries or different lithium-ion batteries (e.g., NMC, LFP, LTO, or any combination of other lithium-ion battery types)).

[0279] System 100 may include a second-life energy source 206 (and optionally one or more first-life energy sources 206) having any combination of the characteristics provided in the prior art.

[0280] Figure 16 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary embodiment of method 1600 of supplying energy to a load from an energy storage system having a second-life energy source.

[0281] In step 1610, the second-life energy sources 206 are selected for a selected use. The second-life energy sources 206 may be selected to be included in the energy storage system 100 for the second-life use. The second-life energy sources 206 may be selected from a set of energy sources 206 that have been retired from their respective first-life uses, for example, based on degradation in their characteristics. The set of energy sources 206 may consist of multiple different first-life uses and / or multiple different types of first-life uses (for example, some are stationary and some are mobile).

[0282] An operator or automated system can select a second-life energy source 206 for a second-life application based on the characteristics of the energy source 206 within the set of energy sources 206. The characteristics may include, for example, the energy capacity of each energy source 206, the energy capacity / mass density of each energy source 206, the peak power / mass density of each energy source 206, the nominal voltage of each energy source 206, the operating voltage range of each energy source 206, the maximum specified current rise time of each energy source 206, the specified peak current of each energy source 206, and / or other suitable characteristics of each energy source 206.

[0283] For example, the system can test each energy source 206 and determine the characteristics of each energy source 206. The system can then select a specified number of energy sources 206 for second-life applications, for example, based on the required number of energy sources 206 for the energy storage system 100 for second-life applications. The system can select the energy sources 206 for second-life applications such that variations in the characteristics of the selected energy sources are minimized.

[0284] In step 1620, an energy storage system 100 is generated for second-life applications. The system 100 can be generated by installing a selected energy source 206 within a module 108 for the system 100. When used in second-life applications, the selected energy source 206 may be referred to as the second-life energy source 206. In some implementations, the energy source 206 can be restored prior to installation. Multiple modules 108 are then electrically connected together in a cascaded manner to provide energy for loads or grids in second-life applications, or to receive energy from loads or grids.

[0285] In step 1630, energy is supplied from system 100 to a load for second-life applications. As described herein, the control system 102 can operate the switch on the converter 202 to supply an appropriate amount of energy to the load. In addition, the control system 102 can maintain equilibrium of the characteristics of the second-life energy source 206 of system 100 using the equilibrium techniques described herein. For example, the control system 102 can maintain equilibrium of the SOC using the equilibrium techniques described when the source 206 is being charged and / or discharged. Such equilibrium techniques can take into account variations in the initial characteristics (e.g., initial capacity) of the source 206 of system 100.

[0286] Various aspects of this subject matter are described below, in scrutiny of the embodiments described herein and / or as a complement thereto, with a focus hereon on the interrelationships and interchangeability of the embodiments described below. In other words, the emphasis is on the fact that each feature of an embodiment can be combined with any other feature unless otherwise explicitly stated or taught.

[0287] The term “module” as used herein refers to one of two or more devices or subsystems within a larger system. A module may be configured to work with other modules of similar size, function, and physical location (e.g., location of electrical terminals, connectors, etc.). Modules having the same function and energy source may be configured to match all other modules within the same system (e.g., rack or pack) (e.g., size and physical location), while modules having different functions or energy sources may vary in size and physical location. Each module may be physically removable and interchangeable with respect to other modules in the system (e.g., like wheels on a car or blades in an information technology (IT) blade server), but this is not required. For example, a system may be packaged 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 conveniently removable and interchangeable with other modules without disassembling the system, etc.

[0288] The term "master control device" is used in a broad sense 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.

[0289] The term "output" is used herein in a broad sense and does not exclude the functioning of both output and input in a bidirectional manner. Similarly, the term "input" is used herein in a broad sense and does not exclude the functioning of both input and output in a bidirectional manner.

[0290] The terms “terminal” and “port” are used herein in a broad sense and may be either unidirectional or bidirectional, may be input or output, and do not require any specific physical or mechanical structure such as a female or male configuration.

[0291] The term "nominal voltage" is a commonly used measurement standard to describe a battery and is provided by the manufacturer (e.g., by marking it on the battery or within the datasheet). Nominal voltage often refers to the average voltage of the battery's output when charged and can be used to describe the voltage of entities incorporating battery cells, such as battery modules, subsystems, and systems, as described in this subject.

[0292] The term "C-rate" is a commonly used metric to describe the discharge current, which is the theoretical current drawn by which a battery will deliver its nominal rated capacity within one hour.

[0293] Various aspects of this subject matter are described below, with a focus here on the interrelationships and interchangeability of the embodiments described herein, in scrutiny of the embodiments described so far, and / or as a complement thereto. In other words, it is important to note that, unless otherwise explicitly stated or logically impractical, each feature of the embodiments can be combined with any other feature.

[0294] In many embodiments, the energy storage system includes a plurality of converter modules that are electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner to form an array. The array is configured to output an AC signal that includes a superposition of AC module voltages from the plurality of converter modules. Each of the plurality of converter modules is configured to be electrically coupled to a photovoltaic (PV) source and includes a DC-DC converter configured to convert a first DC voltage from the PV source to a second DC voltage, an energy buffer electrically coupled to the DC-DC converter, an energy source electrically coupled to the DC-DC converter and the DC-AC converter, a power connection configured to output the AC module voltage of the module, a DC-AC converter configured to convert an input DC voltage to an AC module voltage, and a local control device configured to route energy from the PV source to the energy source and / or power connection by controlling the DC-DC converter and the DC-AC converter.

[0295] In some embodiments, the DC-DC converter includes a first DC-AC converter electrically connected to a transformer and a diode rectifier electrically coupled to the transformer.

[0296] In some embodiments, the DC-DC converter includes a first DC-AC converter electrically connected to a transformer and a first AC-DC converter electrically coupled to the transformer.

[0297] In some embodiments, each of the multiple converter modules is electrically coupled to the same PV source via a common DC bus.

[0298] In some embodiments, each of the multiple converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source.

[0299] In some embodiments, the array is a first array, the AC signal is a first AC signal, and the plurality of converter modules are the first plurality of converter modules. The system may include a second array which includes a second plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner. The second array may be configured to output a second AC signal which has a superposition of AC module voltages from the second plurality of converter modules.

[0300] In some embodiments, the array is a first array, the AC signal is a first AC signal, and the plurality of converter modules are the first plurality of converter modules. The system may include a second array, which includes a second plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner. The second array is configured to output a second AC signal, which includes a superposition of AC module voltages from the second plurality of converter modules. The system may include a third array, which includes a third plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner. The third array is configured to output a third AC signal, which includes a superposition of AC module voltages from the third plurality of converter modules.

[0301] In some embodiments, each of the first, second, and third converter modules is coupled to the same PV source.

[0302] In some embodiments, the PV source of each converter module in a first plurality of converter modules is the first PV source, each converter module in a second plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the second PV source, and each converter module in a third plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the third PV source. The first PV source, the second PV source, and the third PV source are different PV sources.

[0303] In some embodiments, each of the first plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source. Each of the second plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source. Each of the third plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source.

[0304] In some embodiments, each of the first plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the same PV source. Each of the second plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source. Each of the third plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source.

[0305] In some embodiments, the DC-DC converters of the converter modules in each array are connected in a daisy-chain configuration.

[0306] In some embodiments, a first array, a second array, and a third array form a first instance of the array. The system may include a second instance of the array. The second instance of the array includes a fourth array, which includes a fourth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner. The fourth array is configured to output a fourth AC signal, which includes a superposition of AC module voltages from the fourth plurality of converter modules. The second instance of the array includes a fifth array, which includes a fifth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner. The fifth array is configured to output a fifth AC signal, which includes a superposition of AC module voltages from the fifth plurality of converter modules. The second instance of the array includes a sixth array, which includes a sixth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner. The sixth array is configured to output a sixth AC signal, which includes a superposition of AC module voltages from the sixth plurality of converter modules.

[0307] In some embodiments, the power connections of the first converter modules, each of (i) a first plurality of converter modules, (ii) a second plurality of converter modules, and (iii) a third plurality of converter modules, are electrically coupled to a wind power source.

[0308] In some embodiments, the power connections of the first converter module among (i) a first plurality of converter modules, (ii) a second plurality of converter modules, and (iii) a third plurality of converter modules are electrically coupled to an AC bus.

[0309] In some embodiments, the AC bus is electrically coupled to the power grid.

[0310] In some embodiments, the DC-DC converters of the converter modules among the first plurality of converter modules, the second plurality of converter modules, and the third plurality of converter modules are connected in a first daisy-chain configuration. The DC-DC converters of the converter modules among the fourth plurality of converter modules, the fifth plurality of converter modules, and the sixth plurality of converter modules are connected in a second daisy-chain configuration. The first daisy-chain configuration of DC-DC converters is in parallel with the second daisy-chain configuration of DC-DC converters.

[0311] In some embodiments, the DC-AC converter of each converter module is a first DC-AC converter. The power connection of each converter module is a first converter module. Each converter module includes a second DC-AC converter and a second power connection.

[0312] In some embodiments, the first power connection of the first converter module in each of (i) a first plurality of converter modules, (ii) a second plurality of converter modules, and (iii) a third plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to a wind power source. The second power connection of the first converter module in each of (i) a first plurality of converter modules, (ii) a second plurality of converter modules, and (iii) a third plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to an AC bus.

[0313] In some embodiments, a first array, a second array, and a third array form a first instance of the array. The system includes a second instance of the array. The second instance of the array includes a fourth array, which includes a fourth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner. The fourth array is configured to output a fourth AC signal, which includes a superposition of AC module voltages from the fourth plurality of converter modules. The second instance of the array includes a fifth array, which includes a fifth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner. The fifth array is configured to output a fifth AC signal, which includes a superposition of AC module voltages from the fifth plurality of converter modules. The second instance of the array includes a sixth array, which includes a sixth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner. The sixth array is configured to output a sixth AC signal, which includes a superposition of AC module voltages from the sixth plurality of converter modules.

[0314] In some embodiments, the first power connection of the first converter module from each of (i) a fourth plurality of converter modules, (ii) a fifth plurality of converter modules, and (iii) a sixth plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to a wind power source. The second power connection of the first converter module from each of (i) a fourth plurality of converter modules, (ii) a fifth plurality of converter modules, and (iii) a sixth plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to an AC bus.

[0315] In some embodiments, the wind source is a first wind source. The AC bus is a first AC bus. The first power connection of the first converter module from each of (i) a fourth plurality of converter modules, (ii) a fifth plurality of converter modules, and (iii) a sixth plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the second wind source. The second power connection of the first converter module from each of (i) a fourth plurality of converter modules, (ii) a fifth plurality of converter modules, and (iii) a sixth plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the second AC bus.

[0316] In some embodiments, the DC-DC converters of the converter modules among the first plurality of converter modules, the second plurality of converter modules, and the third plurality of converter modules are connected in a first daisy-chain configuration. The DC-DC converters of the converter modules among the fourth plurality of converter modules, the fifth plurality of converter modules, and the sixth plurality of converter modules are connected in a second daisy-chain configuration. The first daisy-chain configuration of DC-DC converters is in parallel with the second daisy-chain configuration of DC-DC converters.

[0317] In some embodiments, the system includes a master control device that is communicatively coupled to a local control device of a converter module.

[0318] In many embodiments, the energy storage system includes a plurality of converter modules that are electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner to form an array. The array is configured to output an AC signal that includes a superposition of AC module voltages from the plurality of converter modules. Each of the plurality of converter modules includes a transformer, a power connection configured to output an AC module voltage, a first DC-AC converter configured to be electrically coupled to a photovoltaic (PV) source and the transformer, the first DC-AC converter being configured to convert a first DC voltage from the PV source to a first AC voltage for application to the transformer, a first AC-DC converter being electrically coupled to the transformer and configured to convert a second AC voltage from the transformer to a second DC voltage for a second DC-AC converter, and the first AC-DC converter and power connection. The system includes a second DC-AC converter configured to be electrically coupled and to convert a second DC voltage to an AC module voltage; an energy buffer; an energy source; a second AC-DC converter configured to be electrically coupled to a transformer and to convert a third AC voltage from the transformer to a third DC voltage for application to the energy buffer and the energy source; and a local control device configured to route energy from a PV source to an energy source and / or power connection by controlling the first and second DC-AC converters and the first and second AC-DC converters.

[0319] In some embodiments, each of the multiple converter modules is electrically coupled to the same PV source via a DC bus.

[0320] In some embodiments, each of the multiple converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source.

[0321] In some embodiments, the system includes a third DC-AC converter that is electrically coupled to a transformer and configured to convert a fourth DC voltage from the fuel cell to a fourth AC voltage for application to the transformer.

[0322] In some embodiments, the system includes a fourth DC-AC converter that is electrically coupled to a transformer and configured to convert a fifth AC voltage from the transformer into a fifth DC voltage for application to a DC bus.

[0323] In some embodiments, the system includes a third AC-DC converter that is electrically coupled to a transformer and configured to convert a sixth AC voltage from the transformer to a sixth DC voltage for a fifth DC-AC converter. The fifth DC-AC converter is configured to be electrically coupled to the third AC-DC converter and a second power connection and to convert the sixth DC voltage to a seventh AC voltage.

[0324] In some embodiments, the array is a first array, the AC signal is a first AC signal, and the plurality of converter modules are the first plurality of converter modules. The system includes a second array which includes a second plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner. The second array is configured to output a second AC signal which includes a superposition of the AC module voltages from the second plurality of converter modules.

[0325] In some embodiments, the array is a first array, the AC signal is a first AC signal, and the plurality of converter modules are the first plurality of converter modules. The system includes a second array which includes a second plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner. The second array is configured to output a second AC signal which includes a superposition of AC module voltages from the second plurality of converter modules. The system includes a third array which includes a third plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner. The third array is configured to output a third AC signal which includes a superposition of AC module voltages from the third plurality of converter modules.

[0326] In some embodiments, each of the first, second, and third converter modules is coupled to the same PV source.

[0327] In some embodiments, the PV source of each converter module in a first plurality of converter modules is the first PV source, each converter module in a second plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the second PV source, and each converter module in a third plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the third PV source. The first PV source, the second PV source, and the third PV source are different PV sources.

[0328] In some embodiments, each of the first plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source. Each of the second plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source. Each of the third plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source.

[0329] In some embodiments, each of the first plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the same PV source. Each of the second plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source. Each of the third plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to a different PV source.

[0330] In some embodiments, each converter module includes a fourth AC-DC converter configured to be electrically coupled to a DC bus and a transformer. The fourth AC-DC converter is configured to convert an eighth AC voltage from the transformer to a seventh DC voltage for the DC bus.

[0331] In some embodiments, the fourth AC-DC converter of each array's converter module is connected in a daisy-chain configuration.

[0332] In some embodiments, a first array, a second array, and a third array form a first instance of the array. The system may include a second instance of the array. The second instance of the array includes a fourth array, which includes a fourth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner. The fourth array is configured to output a fourth AC signal, which has a superposition of AC module voltages from the fourth plurality of converter modules. The second instance of the array includes a fifth array, which includes a fifth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner. The fifth array is configured to output a fifth AC signal, which has a superposition of AC module voltages from the fifth plurality of converter modules. The second instance of the array includes a sixth array, which includes a sixth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner. The sixth array is configured to output a sixth AC signal, which has a superposition of AC module voltages from the sixth plurality of converter modules.

[0333] In some embodiments, the power connections of the first converter modules, each of (i) a first plurality of converter modules, (ii) a second plurality of converter modules, and (iii) a third plurality of converter modules, are electrically coupled to a wind power source.

[0334] In some embodiments, the power connections of the first converter module among (i) a first plurality of converter modules, (ii) a second plurality of converter modules, and (iii) a third plurality of converter modules are electrically coupled to an AC bus.

[0335] In some embodiments, the AC bus is electrically coupled to the power grid.

[0336] In some embodiments, each converter module includes a fourth AC-DC converter configured to be electrically coupled to a DC bus and a transformer. The fourth AC-DC converter is configured to convert an eighth AC voltage from the transformer to a seventh DC voltage for the DC bus. The fourth AC-DC converters of the converter modules among the first plurality of converter modules, the second plurality of converter modules, and the third plurality of converter modules are connected in a first daisy-chain configuration. The fourth AC-DC converters of the converter modules among the fourth plurality of converter modules, the fifth plurality of converter modules, and the sixth plurality of converter modules are connected in a second daisy-chain configuration. The first daisy-chain configuration of the fourth AC-DC converters is in parallel with the second daisy-chain configuration of the fourth AC-DC converters.

[0337] In some embodiments, the power connection of each converter module is a first power connection. The system includes a third AC-DC converter that is electrically coupled to a transformer and configured to convert a sixth AC voltage from the transformer to a sixth DC voltage for a fifth DC-AC converter. The fifth DC-AC converter is configured to be electrically coupled to the third AC-DC converter and the second power connection and is configured to convert the sixth DC voltage to a seventh AC voltage.

[0338] In some embodiments, the first power connection of the first converter module in each of (i) a first plurality of converter modules, (ii) a second plurality of converter modules, and (iii) a third plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to a wind power source. The second power connection of the first converter module in each of (i) a first plurality of converter modules, (ii) a second plurality of converter modules, and (iii) a third plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to an AC bus.

[0339] In some embodiments, a first array, a second array, and a third array form a first instance of the array. The system may include a second instance of the array. The second instance of the array includes a fourth array, which includes a fourth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner. The fourth array is configured to output a fourth AC signal, which includes a superposition of AC module voltages from the fourth plurality of converter modules. The second instance of the array includes a fifth array, which includes a fifth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner. The fifth array is configured to output a fifth AC signal, which includes a superposition of AC module voltages from the fifth plurality of converter modules. The second instance of the array includes a sixth array, which includes a sixth plurality of converter modules electrically coupled together in a cascaded manner. The sixth array is configured to output a sixth AC signal, which includes a superposition of AC module voltages from the sixth plurality of converter modules.

[0340] In some embodiments, the first power connection of the first converter module from each of (i) a fourth plurality of converter modules, (ii) a fifth plurality of converter modules, and (iii) a sixth plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to a wind power source. The second power connection of the first converter module from each of (i) a fourth plurality of converter modules, (ii) a fifth plurality of converter modules, and (iii) a sixth plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to an AC bus.

[0341] In some embodiments, the wind source is a first wind source. The AC bus is a first AC bus. The first power connection of the first converter module from each of (i) a fourth plurality of converter modules, (ii) a fifth plurality of converter modules, and (iii) a sixth plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the second wind source. The second power connection of the first converter module from each of (i) a fourth plurality of converter modules, (ii) a fifth plurality of converter modules, and (iii) a sixth plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to the second AC bus.

[0342] In some embodiments, the DC-DC converters of the converter modules among the first plurality of converter modules, the second plurality of converter modules, and the third plurality of converter modules are connected in a first daisy-chain configuration. The DC-DC converters of the converter modules among the fourth plurality of converter modules, the fifth plurality of converter modules, and the sixth plurality of converter modules are connected in a second daisy-chain configuration. The first daisy-chain configuration of DC-DC converters is in parallel with the second daisy-chain configuration of DC-DC converters.

[0343] In some embodiments, the system includes a master control device that is communicatively coupled to a local control device of a converter module.

[0344] In many embodiments, the framework structure for a multiphase energy system includes multiple modules arranged in multiple cabinets. Each module includes a DC interface and an AC interface. Each module includes an energy source configured to output a DC voltage (DC), a converter coupled to the energy source, and a local control device configured to output a module voltage selected from the group consisting of +DC, zero volts, and -DC from the AC interface by controlling the converter. The multiple modules are connected as multiple 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 the array such that the AC signal output by the array is a superposition of the module voltages from each module in that array. Each cabinet holds modules belonging to at least one of the same levels of different arrays arranged along an axis perpendicular to a reference plane, such that at least one module at the same level is aligned along the axis. With respect to at least two adjacent levels of an array, the modules are arranged in an array order such that modules of the same array are aligned parallel to the reference plane at the same common distance from the reference plane. The DC interface of each module is electrically coupled to the DC interface of at least one other module via a first connector routed along the first side of multiple cabinets. The AC interface of each module is electrically coupled to the AC interface of at least one other module via a second connector routed along the second side of multiple cabinets.

[0345] In some embodiments, the first side is opposite to the second side.

[0346] In some embodiments, the first side is perpendicular to the second side.

[0347] In some embodiments, the energy source for each module is a first energy source, and each module includes a second energy source.

[0348] In some embodiments, the first energy source is electrically coupled to the module via third and fourth connectors, and the second energy source is electrically connected to the module via fifth and sixth connectors.

[0349] In some embodiments, the third connector is routed along the first side of the cabinet, and the fourth connector is routed along the second side of the cabinet.

[0350] In some embodiments, the sixth connector is routed within the cabinet along the first side of the cabinet, and the seventh connector is routed within the cabinet along the second side of the cabinet.

[0351] In some embodiments, the energy source includes a battery module, a high-energy-density (HED) capacitor, or a fuel cell.

[0352] In some embodiments, the DC interface of at least one module is electrically coupled to a photovoltaic (PV) source.

[0353] In some embodiments, the DC interface of at least one module is electrically coupled to a DC bus.

[0354] In some embodiments, the DC interface of at least one module is electrically coupled to the fuel cell.

[0355] In some embodiments, the AC interface of at least one module in each phase is electrically coupled to a wind power source.

[0356] In some embodiments, the AC interface of at least one module in each phase is electrically coupled to an AC bus.

[0357] In some embodiments, each module includes multiple AC interfaces.

[0358] In some embodiments, each module includes multiple DC interfaces.

[0359] In some embodiments, the DC interfaces of the modules are connected in a daisy-chain configuration.

[0360] In many embodiments, an energy storage system includes a plurality of modules electrically connected together in a cascaded manner to provide energy for a load or a power grid, or to receive energy from a load or a power grid. Each module has an energy source and a network of switches for selectively connecting the energy source to other modules of the system. At least one of the energy sources in the modules is a second-life energy source.

[0361] In some embodiments, all of the system's energy sources are second-life energy sources.

[0362] In some embodiments, all of the system's energy sources are either first-life energy sources or second-life energy sources.

[0363] In some embodiments, the entire energy source of the system is a battery.

[0364] In some embodiments, the energy source varies in energy capacity by 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more, 30% or more, 5-30%, 10-30%, and / or 20-30%.

[0365] In some embodiments, the energy source varies in energy capacity / mass density by 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more, 30% or more, 5-30%, 10-30%, and / or 20-30%.

[0366] In some embodiments, the energy source varies in peak power / mass density by 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more, 30% or more, 5-30%, 10-30%, and / or 20-30%.

[0367] In some embodiments, the energy source varies by 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more, 30% or more, 5-30%, 10-30%, and / or 20-30% at the nominal voltage.

[0368] In some embodiments, the energy source varies by 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more, 30% or more, 5-30%, 10-30%, and / or 20-30% within the operating voltage range.

[0369] In some embodiments, the energy source varies by 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more, 30% or more, 5-30%, 10-30%, and / or 20-30% during the maximum specified current rise time.

[0370] In some embodiments, the energy source varies by 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more, 30% or more, 5-30%, 10-30%, and / or 20-30% in the specified peak current.

[0371] In some embodiments, the energy source varies in the electrochemical type.

[0372] In some embodiments, the energy storage system is a static energy storage system, and the energy source is an energy source after use in transit.

[0373] In some embodiments, the energy storage system is a mobile energy storage system.

[0374] In many embodiments, the energy storage system includes a plurality of converter modules. Each of the plurality of converter modules includes an AC interface and a DC interface. The AC interfaces of each of the plurality of converter modules are electrically coupled in a cascaded manner to form an array. The array is configured to output an AC signal having a superposition of the AC module voltages output from the AC interfaces of the plurality of converter modules. Each of the DC interfaces of the plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to at least one other DC interface of the plurality of converter modules. At least one DC interface of the plurality of converter modules is coupled to a photovoltaic (PV) source or a fuel cell.

[0375] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of converter modules includes an energy source, an energy buffer, a DC-DC converter electrically positioned between the DC interface and the energy source, and a DC-AC converter electrically positioned between the energy source and the AC interface.

[0376] In some embodiments, the DC-DC converter includes a transformer.

[0377] In some embodiments, the system includes a control system configured to control the switching network of each of the multiple converter modules and to set the DC interface voltage across the DC interface of each of the multiple converter modules.

[0378] In some embodiments, each of the multiple converter modules includes an LC circuit coupled across the DC interface.

[0379] In some embodiments, the control system is configured to monitor the charge state of each energy source of the plurality of converter modules, control the switching network, and set the DC interface voltages of the plurality of converter modules, so that at least one of the energy sources of the plurality of converter modules receives more power from the PV source or fuel cell than at least one of the other energy sources of the plurality of converter modules.

[0380] In some embodiments, the control system is configured to maintain equilibrium in the charge state of the energy sources of the multiple converter modules by adjusting the power distributed through the DC interfaces of the multiple converter modules.

[0381] In many embodiments, the energy storage system includes a plurality of converter modules. Each of the plurality of converter modules includes an AC interface, a first DC interface, and a second DC interface. The AC interfaces of each of the plurality of converter modules are electrically coupled in a cascaded manner to form an array. The array is configured to output an AC signal that includes a superposition of the AC module voltages output from the AC interfaces of the plurality of converter modules. The first DC interface of each of the plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to at least one other DC interface of the plurality of converter modules. The second DC interface of at least one of the plurality of converter modules is coupled to a photovoltaic (PV) source or a fuel cell.

[0382] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of converter modules includes an energy source, an energy buffer, a transformer, a first converter electrically positioned between a first DC interface and the transformer, a second converter electrically positioned between a second DC interface and the transformer, a third converter electrically positioned between the energy source and the transformer, and a fourth converter electrically positioned between an AC interface and the transformer.

[0383] In some embodiments, the system includes a control system configured to control the first, second, third, and fourth converters of each of the multiple converter modules.

[0384] In some embodiments, the system includes a control system configured to control the switching network of each of the plurality of converter modules, to set a first DC interface voltage across the first DC interface of each of the plurality of converter modules, and to set a second DC interface voltage across the second DC interface of each of the plurality of converter modules.

[0385] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of converter modules includes a first LC circuit coupled across a first DC interface and a second LC circuit coupled across a second DC interface.

[0386] In some embodiments, the control system is configured to maintain equilibrium in the charge state of the energy sources of the multiple converter modules by adjusting the power distributed through a first DC interface of the multiple converter modules.

[0387] In many embodiments, the energy storage system includes a plurality of converter modules. Each of the plurality of converter modules includes an energy source, a first AC interface, and a second AC interface. The first AC interfaces of each of the plurality of converter modules are electrically coupled in a cascaded manner to form an array. The array is configured to output a first AC signal to the power grid, which has a superposition of the AC module voltages output from the first AC interfaces of the plurality of converter modules. The second AC interface of each of the plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled in a cascaded manner to receive a second AC signal.

[0388] In some embodiments, multiple converter modules are configured to receive a second AC signal from a renewable energy source.

[0389] In some embodiments, each of the multiple converter modules includes a transformer electrically positioned between a first AC interface and a second AC interface.

[0390] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of converter modules includes a DC interface. Each DC interface of the plurality of converter modules is electrically coupled to at least one other DC interface of the plurality of converter modules.

[0391] In some embodiments, multiple converter modules are configured to transfer energy between them via a DC interface.

[0392] In some embodiments, the system includes a control system configured to coordinate energy transfer between multiple converter modules via a DC interface.

[0393] In some embodiments, the DC interface is a first DC interface, and each of the multiple converter modules has a second DC interface coupled to a photovoltaic power source or energy source.

[0394] A processing network can include one or more processors, microprocessors, controllers, and / or microcontrollers, each of which may be a separate or independent chip, or distributed across several different chips (and parts thereof). Any type of processing network can 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 can include digital signal processors that can be implemented in hardware and / or software. A processing network can execute software instructions stored in memory, which cause the processing network to perform a number of different actions and control other components.

[0395] The processing network can also perform other software and / or hardware routines. For example, the processing network can interface with a communication network and perform analog-to-digital conversion, encoding and decoding, other digital signal processing, multimedia functions, data conversion to a format suitable for provision to the communication network (e.g., in-phase and perpendicular phase), and / or transmit data to the communication network (wired or wirelessly).

[0396] Any communication signals described herein may be transmitted wirelessly unless noted or logically impractical. A communication network may be included for wireless communication. The communication network may be implemented as one or more chips and / or components (e.g., transmitters, receivers, transceivers, and / or other communication networks) that perform wireless communication over a link under a suitable 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 may be included with the communication network as needed to operate with various protocols and circuits. In some embodiments, the communication network may share antennas for transmission over the link. An RF communication network may include transmitters and receivers (e.g., integrated as transceivers) and associated encoder logic.

[0397] The processing network can also be adapted to run the operating system and any software applications, and to perform other functions not related to the processing of transmitted and received communications.

[0398] Computer program instructions for performing actions according to the subject described may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including computers and programming languages. A non-exclusive list of examples includes, to name a few, Hardware Description Language (HDL), SystemC, C, C++, C#, Objective-C, Matlab®, Simulink, SystemVerilog, SystemVHDL, Handel-C, Python, Java®, JavaScript, Ruby, HTML, Smalltalk, Transact-SQL, XML, PHP, Golang (Go), the "R" language, and Swift.

[0399] Memory, storage, and / or computer-readable media can be shared by one or more of the various functional units present, or distributed among two or more of them (for example, as separate memories residing on different chips). Memory can also reside on its own separate chip.

[0400] To the extent that embodiments disclosed herein include or operate in relation to memory, storage, and / or computer-readable media, such memory, storage, and / or computer-readable media are non-transient. Therefore, to the extent that such memory, storage, and / or computer-readable media are encompassed by one or more claims, such memory, storage, and / or computer-readable media are non-transient. The terms “non-transient” and “tangible” as used herein are intended to describe memory, storage, and / or computer-readable media that exclude propagating electromagnetic signals, but are not intended to limit the types of memory, storage, and / or computer-readable media in terms of memory persistence or otherwise. For example, “non-transient” and / or “tangible” memory, storage, 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 their variants.

[0401] 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 expressly otherwise stated. This paragraph therefore serves as a preceding paragraph and descriptive aid for introducing claims that, at any time, combine features, elements, components, functions, and steps from different embodiments, or substitute features, elements, components, functions, and steps from one embodiment with another, even if such combinations or substitutions are not expressly stated in the following descriptions. It is explicitly acknowledged that a clear enumeration of all possible combinations and substitutions would be an undue burden, especially given that the permissibility of any such combinations and substitutions will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0402] As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” refer to multiple subjects unless the context clearly determines otherwise.

[0403] 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 feature, function, step, or element of an embodiment may be enumerated in the claims or added to them, as well as any negative limitations that define the scope of the claimed invention by any feature, function, step, or element that falls outside its scope.

Claims

1. A framework structure for a multiphase energy system, wherein the framework structure is The system comprises multiple modules arranged in multiple cabinets, each module having a DC interface and an AC interface, 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 configured to control the converter to output a module voltage selected from the group consisting of +DC, zero volts, and -DC from the AC interface. 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 the level of the array such that the AC signal output by the array is a superposition of the module voltages from each module in the array. Each cabinet holds the modules belonging to at least one of the same levels of different arrays arranged along an axis perpendicular to a reference plane, thereby the modules at at least one of the same levels are aligned along the axis. With respect to at least two adjacent levels of the array, the modules are arranged in an array order such that modules of the same array are aligned parallel to the reference plane at the same common distance from the reference plane. The DC interface of each module is electrically coupled to the DC interface of at least one other module via a first connector routed along the first side of the plurality of cabinets. A frame structure in which the AC interface of each module is electrically coupled to the AC interface of at least one other module via a second connector routed along the second side of the plurality of cabinets.

2. The frame structure according to claim 1, wherein the first side is opposite to the second side.

3. The frame structure according to claim 1, wherein the first side is perpendicular to the second side.

4. The frame structure according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the energy source of each module is a first energy source, and each module is equipped with a second energy source.

5. The frame structure according to claim 4, wherein the first energy source is electrically coupled to the module via a third connector and a fourth connector, and the second energy source is electrically connected to the module via fifth and sixth connectors.

6. The frame structure according to claim 5, wherein the third connector is routed along the first side of the cabinet, and the fourth connector is routed along the second side of the cabinet.

7. The frame structure according to claim 6, wherein the sixth connector is routed within the cabinet along the first side of the cabinet, and the seventh connector is routed within the cabinet along the second side of the cabinet.

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

9. The framework structure according to claim 1, wherein the DC interface of at least one module is electrically coupled to a photovoltaic (PV) source.

10. The frame structure according to claim 1, wherein the DC interface of at least one module is electrically coupled to a DC bus.

11. The frame structure according to claim 1, wherein the DC interface of at least one module is electrically coupled to a fuel cell.

12. The frame structure according to claim 1, wherein the AC interface of at least one module of each phase is electrically coupled to a wind power source.

13. The framework structure according to claim 1, wherein the AC interface of at least one module of each phase is electrically coupled to an AC bus.

14. The frame structure according to claim 1, wherein each module is provided with multiple AC interfaces.

15. The framework structure according to claim 1, wherein each module is provided with multiple DC interfaces, and the DC interfaces of the modules are optionally connected in a daisy-chain configuration.

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