Device for uninterruptible power supply having variable capacitance and method thereof

Abstract

A variable capacity uninterruptible power supply unit comprises a used battery module of an electric vehicle, a power converter including an inverter in which the used battery module is installed, a module case connected to a Battery Management System (BMS), a temporary cable through which current flows from the used battery module to a load, and an adapter supporting the temporary cable.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] A variable capacity uninterruptible power supply and a method thereof are provided. Background Technology

[0003] It is known that electric vehicle (EV) batteries require replacement due to operational issues when their performance degrades to approximately 70–80% of their initial level. Generally, battery performance declines to a replacement level 7 to 10 years after the vehicle is delivered. Although replaced used batteries are unsuitable for operational requirements, they can be utilized for other purposes, such as energy storage devices. With the emission of used EV batteries expected to surge starting in 2026, the development of technologies to utilize these batteries is actively underway. EV batteries are composed of cells, modules, or packs; currently, technology development and commercialization are primarily focused on module-based units. A battery cell is the basic unit of a battery capable of charging and discharging electrical energy, consisting of a positive electrode and a negative electrode enclosed in an aluminum can or pouch. A module is an assembly in which a certain number of cells are bundled into a frame to protect them from external shocks, heat, and vibrations. Packs, formed by connecting multiple modules, are used in electric vehicles. The pack is the final form installed in the electric vehicle and is equipped with a cooling system, a Battery Management System (BMS), and protection circuits.

[0004] Uninterruptible power supply systems include low-voltage system uninterruptible power supply systems. Examples of low-voltage system uninterruptible power supply systems include emergency generators, mobile generator vehicles, uninterruptible transformer vehicles, and mobile ESS (Energy Storage System). Emergency generators have a capacity of approximately 300 to 500 kW and can be rented during emergencies such as typhoons. Mobile generator vehicles have a capacity of approximately 500 kV and are used during power outages in high-voltage locations such as apartment complexes. Mobile ESS have a capacity of approximately 300 kV and serve as a replacement for mobile transformers, with the ESS mounted on a vehicle. Mobile transformers have a capacity of approximately 300 kV and supply low-voltage power in the event of a transformer outage due to construction.

[0005] Current working conditions for power distribution construction are deteriorating compared to the past. Although there are efforts to expand power outages to prevent safety accidents, electricity customers are reluctant to accept this. Consequently, there is a need for safe and affordable temporary power supply devices. For the widespread use of these devices, ease of use must be ensured for even small-scale outage customers by allowing for quick and convenient installation in terms of space and capacity. Furthermore, for nighttime use, the devices must be quiet and safe and easy to install and remove. In addition to power outages, the devices must be capable of supplying low-voltage power uninterruptedly even when extra-high voltage lines are shut down.

[0006] Emergency generators are used to supply power to customers during power outage operations. While applicable to locations with small-scale power outages, they generate excessive noise and exhaust fumes due to the use of diesel fuel. Mobile generator vehicles are unsuitable for power outages affecting multiple small customers due to their single capacity (500kVA). Additionally, they have disadvantages such as excessive noise and exhaust fumes, and their usage frequency is low except for power outages affecting collective customers, such as apartment complexes. Similarly, mobile ESSs are also unsuitable for power outages affecting multiple small customers due to their single capacity (300kVA), but they can serve as replacement equipment for mobile generator vehicles or mobile transformer vehicles. Uninterruptible Power Transformer Vehicles are also unsuitable for small-scale operations due to their single capacity (300kVA). Although they are widely used during construction, they cannot be used during power outages on high-voltage lines. Furthermore, since transformers must be connected to high-voltage lines, they entail live-line work, require long installation times, and can result in excessive construction costs. The problem to be solved

[0008] One embodiment is intended to reduce disposal costs for waste batteries and achieve carbon-neutral environmental protection by recycling batteries discharged after use in electric vehicles.

[0009] One embodiment is intended to provide a low-voltage uninterruptible power supply for a transformer or incoming unit to supply temporary power in an emergency and minimize power outages.

[0010] One embodiment provides various adapters for connecting an uninterruptible power supply and a load, for easily connecting the uninterruptible power supply and the load.

[0011] In addition to the above-mentioned tasks, embodiments according to the present invention may be used to achieve other tasks not specifically mentioned. means of solving the problem

[0013] An uninterruptible power supply device according to one embodiment is a type of ESS that recycles modules of used batteries from electric vehicles, has variable capacity, and is detachable.

[0014] An uninterruptible power supply device according to one embodiment can supply power to distribution lines or customers in the event of an emergency, such as a line failure or a power outage during work, by recycling modules of used batteries from electric vehicles.

[0015] An uninterruptible power supply device according to one embodiment has a battery detachment function. For example, by allowing module batteries to be inserted and removed one by one, batteries with reduced performance or those at risk of failure can be excluded from use.

[0016] An uninterruptible power supply device according to one embodiment has a variable supply capacity function. For example, an uninterruptible power supply device can be configured by combining (wiring) one or more modules, and the capacity can be expanded. A 20kW device can be configured by combining 10 2kW modules.

[0017] An uninterruptible power supply device according to one embodiment ensures ease of installation. For example, it can be easily connected to various types of loads through a connector cable connecting the device and the load and an adapter at the end of the cable. It can be easily installed in low-voltage line connections, secondary meters, circuit breakers in distribution boxes, outlets, etc.

[0018] A capacity-variable uninterruptible power supply device according to one embodiment includes a used battery module of an electric vehicle, a power converter including an inverter in which the used battery module is installed, a module case connected to a Battery Management System (BMS), a temporary cable through which current flows from the used battery module to a load, and an adapter supporting the temporary cable.

[0019] A variable capacity uninterruptible power supply method according to one embodiment includes the steps of preparing a used battery module of an electric vehicle, installing the used battery module inside a module case connected to a power converter including an inverter and a BMS, and allowing current to flow from the used battery module to a load through a temporary cable. Effects of the invention

[0021] According to one embodiment, emergency power supply is easily provided to locations where a power outage is impossible in the event of a power distribution line failure. For example, by ensuring silent operation and ease of installation, it can be utilized immediately in the event of a power outage, with no delay in restoration. Furthermore, smooth power supply is possible in situations where power restoration work is difficult, such as late at night or during rain.

[0022] According to one embodiment, a method for utilizing used batteries is secured. For example, used batteries that typically fail to meet operating requirements within 7 to 10 years after driving an electric vehicle can be recycled into energy storage devices for other purposes.

[0023] According to one embodiment, an economical uninterrupted power supply method can be introduced. For example, in the case of low-voltage customers during power distribution construction, an uninterrupted power transformer vehicle can be used when a power outage is not possible. For small loads, an economical uninterrupted power supply method with a lighter weight and lower capacity than an uninterrupted power transformer vehicle (500 kVA) can be used, and an uninterrupted power supply device can be used for customers for whom a power outage is not possible during line work. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0025] Figure 1 is a used battery module and is a battery removed from an electric vehicle. Figure 2 is an internal structure drawing of the module case with the BMS part omitted. Figure 3 is a diagram showing the connection between the module and the case by inserting and installing the module into the case, with the BMS part omitted. FIG. 4 is a drawing showing the state in which a BMS omitted in FIG. 3 is inserted into a module case containing a BMS, and FIG. 5 is a drawing showing the module of FIG. 3 inserted into the module case of FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an inverter and an inverter case, and the inverter is connected externally. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the inverter inserted inside the inverter case. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the module case of FIG. 5 and the inverter case of FIG. 7 connected, and FIG. 9 is an example diagram showing one inverter case and three module cases connected in parallel. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary connection between a multi-core cable connected to a module case-inverter and a load-side cable using an adapter. FIG. 11 is a diagram exemplarily showing an adapter that connects a multi-core cable connected to a module case-inverter to a power distribution line. FIGS. 12 to 14 are drawings illustrating the application of a variable capacity uninterruptible power supply device according to one embodiment. FIG. 15 is a drawing exemplarily showing the interior of a single-module case with an inverter built in. FIGS. 16 to 18 are drawings showing multiple modules placed in one module case to increase capacity and connections between these module cases. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0026] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the invention. The present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In the drawings, parts unrelated to the explanation have been omitted to clearly explain the invention, and the same reference numerals are used for identical or similar components throughout the specification. Furthermore, specific descriptions of widely known prior art are omitted.

[0027] Throughout the specification, when a part is described as "including" a certain component, this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may include additional components.

[0028] Throughout the specification, expressions written in the singular form may be interpreted as singular or plural unless explicit expressions such as "one" or "singular" are used.

[0029] Throughout the specification, terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but these components are not limited by terms including ordinal numbers. Terms including ordinal numbers are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, the first component may be named the second component, and similarly, the second component may be named the first component.

[0030] Throughout the specification, devices constituting the network may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0031] Throughout the specification, terms such as "...part," "...unit," and "...module" refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation, and this may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0032] Throughout the specification, the devices are composed of hardware including at least one processor, a memory device, a communication device, etc., and a program or software that is executed in combination with the hardware is stored in a designated location. The hardware has a configuration and performance capable of executing a method according to one embodiment. The program or software includes instructions that implement a method of operation according to one embodiment described with reference to the drawings, and executes one embodiment in combination with hardware such as a processor and a memory device.

[0033] Throughout the specification, "transmission or provision" may include not only direct transmission or provision but also indirect transmission or provision through other devices or by using an alternative route.

[0034] Throughout the specification and in the flowcharts described with reference to the drawings, the order of operations may be changed, multiple operations may be merged, some operations may be divided, and certain operations may not be performed.

[0035] Then, a variable capacity uninterruptible power supply device and the method thereof will be explained in detail.

[0036] A variable capacity uninterruptible power supply includes a battery module, which is a power storage device, a module case, and a connecting cable.

[0037] Battery modules are recycled from used electric vehicle battery packs that have been disassembled. For modules that have been disassembled from used EV battery packs and have passed performance verification, products are used that are insulated and equipped with connection terminals to enable the detachment of module cases and inter-module connections.

[0038] The module case is shaped like a rectangle made of insulating material and contains built-in power conversion devices, such as converters and inverters, or has external conversion devices connected to it for AC to DC conversion. Additionally, the module case has a built-in Battery Management System (BMS). There are two types of module cases. For example, a single type for installing one module and a multi-module connection type. When multiple modules are connected, the capacity of the uninterruptible power supply can be increased. Modules are connected by connecting modules within the module case or by connecting module cases to each other.

[0039] A single-type module case can be used for small-scale single-phase loads of 1.5 kW or less. For example, a single-type module case can be used for facilities where power outages are not possible, such as residential, commercial refrigerators, and aquariums. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the interior of a single-type module case as an example.

[0040] The installation procedure for the single-module case is as follows. Insert the charged used battery module into the single-module case. Install the connecting cable to connect the load and the used battery module. Press the power buttons for the used battery module and the inverter, respectively, to supply AC power to the load. When use is finished, press the power button and disconnect the load.

[0041] Connected module cases can be used for loads exceeding 1.5kW. For example, connected module cases can be used in commercial buildings, factories, and for supplying multiple customers through low-voltage lines.

[0042] The installation procedure for the connected module case is as follows. Prepare the required quantity of charged used battery modules according to the capacity. Insert the prepared used battery modules into the connected module case and select either three-phase or single-phase. Check the voltage and output status via the LED display on the module case. If there are no abnormalities, install the connection cable to connect the load and the used battery modules. Pressing the power buttons for the used battery modules and the inverter, respectively, supplies AC power to the load. When use is finished, press the power button and disconnect the load. Based on the results of stability verification, it can be expanded up to less than 300 kVA. However, considering that the weight of a used battery module and a single module case is approximately 10 kg, a vehicle for mounting and transport is required. The module expansion case can be constructed by connecting all modules into a single unit, similar to electric vehicle batteries, or by placing several modules into a single case and interconnecting these cases.

[0043] When connecting all modules into a single unit, the connected module case can be mounted or installed on the vehicle, taking into account the weight of the device. For example, in a 1-ton truck, the module case can be installed behind the seats or at the bottom of the cargo compartment. In a box truck, the module case can be installed at the top and bottom of the cargo compartment. In a passenger car, the module case can be installed behind the seats.

[0044] When connecting module cases, the structure is simplified to facilitate installation at power outage sites, taking weight into account.

[0045] For example, referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, a connection between module cases is possible. FIG. 1 is a single used battery module, FIG. 2 is the interior of a module case, and FIG. 3 is a drawing showing the used battery module of FIG. 5 inserted into the module case of FIG. 6. FIG. 4 is a drawing showing the module being inserted into a module case that includes the BMS, which was omitted from the representation in FIG. 3, and FIG. 5 is a structural drawing showing the internal wiring with the BMS embedded in the case where the module of FIG. 4 is installed. FIG. 6 is a drawing showing an inverter and an inverter case, and FIG. 7 is a drawing showing the inverter inserted into the inverter case. FIG. 8 is a drawing showing the connection between the module case of FIG. 9 and the inverter case of FIG. 7, and FIG. 9 is a drawing showing one inverter case and three module cases connected in parallel.

[0046] One module is placed in each case, and through parallel connection between cases, the voltage is maintained at that of a single module while increasing the capacity of the parallel batteries. A BMS is built into the case, and an external inverter is connected. Wires or busbars are installed inside the case; one end of these wires (busbars) is connected to a terminal that links to the module, while the other end is connected to two DC output terminals protruding from the outside of the case. The DC terminals are located on the left and right sides of the case, allowing for connections between case terminals and connecting the modules inside the case in parallel. If three 1.5kW 12V modules are connected in parallel, the total capacity becomes 12V, 4.5kW; when connecting an inverter (DC-AC converter) to this system, the capacity should be considered during installation. The inverter can also be connected to the module through the case, or it can be connected without a case depending on the size of the inverter. Finally, AC power equivalent to the module's capacity can be supplied by connecting the module (parallel connection) and the inverter, and the inverter supplies power to the load side by connecting a temporary power supply cable and an adapter.

[0047] The temporary power supply cable is a wire connecting the case where the module is installed and the load, and various types of adapters can be attached or detached depending on the type of load.

[0048] A temporary cable is a wire used to carry current from a module to a load. For example, referring to Fig. 10, a multi-core cable can be used as the temporary cable and connected to the load-side wire through an adapter to improve ease of construction.

[0049] In the case of cable connection adapters, various types of adapters can be manufactured to suit the load. For example, referring to Fig. 11, a cable adapter for a power distribution line can be manufactured in a shape that surrounds a utility pole.

[0050] FIGS. 13 and 14 are drawings illustrating the application of a variable capacity uninterruptible power supply device according to one embodiment.

[0051] Referring to Fig. 12, it can be applied to home appliances (single-phase 1.5kW) in small commercial buildings. The device configuration includes a module, a module case (single type), a CV 2C cable, and a socket-type adapter.

[0052] Referring to Fig. 13, it can be applied to a small commercial building No. 1 (general use single-phase 7kW). The device configuration includes a module, a module case (connection type), a CV 2C cable, and an adapter for a circuit breaker.

[0053] Referring to Fig. 14, it can be applied to one villa building (residential single-phase 15 units, 22.5kW). The device configuration includes a module, a module case (connected type, vehicle-mounted), a CV 4C cable, and an adapter for low-voltage lines.

[0055] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications and improvements by those skilled in the art using the basic concept of the present invention as defined in the following claims also fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

Claim 1 A variable-capacity uninterruptible power supply device comprising: a used battery module of an electric vehicle; a power conversion device including an inverter installed inside the used battery module; a module case connected to a Battery Management System (BMS); a temporary cable through which current flows from the used battery module to a load; and an adapter supporting the temporary cable. The module case is used for a single-phase small load of 1.5kW or less and is used for facilities where power outages are impossible, such as residential, commercial refrigerators, or aquariums, and is a single-type module case with an integrated structure containing the inverter inside; and is used for a load exceeding 1.5kW and is used for facilities supplying multiple customers through a commercial building, factory, or low-voltage line, and is a connected-type module case with a separated structure in which a plurality of module cases, each having a plurality of used battery modules installed, and a separate inverter case are connected in parallel to expand capacity. Claim 2 A variable capacity uninterruptible power supply device according to claim 1, wherein the module case comprises a first module case including a first DC terminal and a second DC terminal connected to the used battery module and a BMS connection terminal, and a second module case including the BMS and into which the first module case is inserted. Claim 3 A variable capacity uninterruptible power supply device, wherein, in paragraph 2, the inverter includes an AC terminal and a DC terminal to which the inverter is connected, and further includes an inverter case in which the inverter is installed internally. Claim 4 In paragraph 3, the second module case and the inverter case are connected in parallel to each other, a variable capacity uninterruptible power supply. Claim 5 In claim 1, the adapter is a variable-capacity uninterruptible power supply device that connects the module case and the load according to the load-side equipment. Claim 6 A method for supplying variable-capacity uninterruptible power, comprising the steps of: preparing a used battery module of an electric vehicle; installing the used battery module inside a module case connected to a power converter including an inverter and a Battery Management System (BMS); and allowing current to flow from the used battery module to a load through a temporary cable. The module case comprises: a single-type module case with an integrated structure containing the inverter inside, used for single-phase small loads of 1.5kW or less and used in facilities where power outages are impossible, such as residential, commercial refrigerators, or aquariums; and a connected-type module case with a separated structure in which the capacity is expanded by connecting multiple module cases, each having a used battery module installed, and a separate inverter case in parallel, used for loads exceeding 1.5kW and used in commercial buildings, factories, or facilities supplying multiple customers via low-voltage lines. Claim 7 In claim 6, the module case comprises a first module case including a BMS connection terminal and a first DC terminal connected to the used battery module, and a second module case including the BMS and into which the first module case is inserted, a variable capacity uninterruptible power supply method. Claim 8 A variable capacity uninterruptible power supply method according to claim 7, comprising an AC terminal and a DC terminal to which the inverter is connected, and further comprising an inverter case in which the inverter is installed internally. Claim 9 In claim 8, the second module case and the inverter case are connected in parallel to each other, a variable capacity uninterruptible power supply method. Claim 10 A variable capacity uninterruptible power supply method according to claim 6, comprising, in the step where current flows from the used battery module to the load through a temporary cable, an adapter device that connects the module case and the load according to the load-side equipment.

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