Systems and methods for power distribution

Abstract

A system configured to charge a capacitor associated with a charge pump gate driver integrated within each electrically connected powertrain module of a plurality of electrical connected powertrain modules and discharge power from the charge pump gate driver, wherein both the charging and discharging of the charge pump gate driver comprises the turning on and turning off of one or more gates.

Description

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR POWER DISTRIBUTIONCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This international application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. provisional application number 63 / 657,344 filed on June 7, 2024. The disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to power distribution within a network of interconnected powertrain modules.BACKGROUND

[0003] The statements in this section merely provide background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art.

[0004] The efficient distribution of power associated with an electric mobility application faces many challenges and limitations, such as an inability to function at extreme duty cycles, communication bottlenecks, required use of high- voltage components, an inability to separate sections of a battery pack, and inefficient rebalancing of the battery pack. The present disclosure addresses these and other issues related to systems relative to power distribution.SUMMARY

[0005] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

[0006] The present disclosure provides a system comprising: a plurality of electrically connected powertrain modules configured as smart integrated modules (SIMs), wherein each SIM electrically connects to an energy storage device and comprises at least one or more of the following: a bi-directional or uni-directional DC / AC power converter, a bi-directional or a uni-directional DC / DC power converter, a battery management module, and a local controller. Each of the plurality of SIMs further comprises one or more gate drivers configured to switch the DC / AC power converter on and off. The gate driver can be an isolated gate driver, a typical bootstrap gate driver, a charge pump gate driver, or any other type of gate driver.

[0007] An isolated gate driver requires the use of electrical isolationbetween the input side and the output sides of the gate driver. This necessitates the use of isolated voltage regulators, or isolated switching converters, leading to a higher cost and volume associated with the gate driver.

[0008] In a bootstrap gate driver, the bootstrap capacitor charging circuit is dependent on the power converters’ switching. Thus, bootstrap capacitors suffer at ultra-high or ultra-low duty cycles. Thus, they are not suitable for an application provided by a power converter with ultra-high or ultra-low duty cycles.

[0009] A charge pump gate driver uses a similar bootstrap capacitor, however, the charging circuit of this capacitor is less dependent on the switching of the power converters. An external charging path supplies the bootstrap of the charge pump gate driver. This charging path includes supplying energy to an intermediate capacitor placed between the charge pump gate driver and the bootstrap capacitor using high-frequency switching. Consequently, the intermediate capacitor discharges energy by charging the bootstrap capacitor periodically, even at ultra-high or ultra-low duty cycles.

[0010] The present disclosure provides a system for decentralized power management, the system comprising: a shared communication pool; and a plurality of electrically connected powertrain modules configured as smart integrated modules (SIMs), wherein each of the plurality of SIMs is configured to communicate through the shared communication pool; wherein each of the plurality of SIMs are further configured to: organize the power flow of an electrically connected energy storage device associated with each of the plurality of SIMs in an ascending, or a descending, order based on the local data associated with each of the plurality of SIMs and their correspondent energy storage devices; wherein each of the plurality of SIMs are further configured to determine one or more control operations based on one or more measurements and / or estimations; wherein the one or more control operations include data acquisition, network-aware decision-making, autonomous execution, or a combination thereof; and wherein the one or more measurements are based on local measurements of each of the plurality of SIMs and its associated electrically connected energy storage device or remote measurements of the other SIMs among the plurality of SIMs and their associated electrically connected energy storage devices. The one or more measurements or estimations include a temperature, a current, a voltage, a state of charge estimation, a state of health estimation, a state of life estimation, a degradation estimation, or a combination thereof.

[0011] The present disclosure provides a system comprising: a plurality of electrically connected powertrain modules configured as smart integrated modules (SIMs), wherein each of the SIMs is configured to receive, or send, power through one or more power converters disposed within each of the SIMs from a transformer; wherein the one or more power converters are connected to a secondary side of the transformer, and wherein power flows between the power converters and their electrically connected energy storage devices, of each of the plurality of SIMs; wherein the primary side of the transformer comprises at least one AC / DC rectifier circuit and at least one high switching circuit; wherein sending or receiving power through the one or more power converters can comprise simultaneously balancing the local measurements and estimations of the electrically connected energy storage devices such as the state of charge, the state of health, the state of life, the degradation, or a combination thereof. The plurality of the SIMs are further configured to charge a subset of the energy storage devices and decouple another subset of energy storage devices based on the storage devices measurements and estimations. Every energy storage device from the subset of the decoupled energy storage devices can balance its internal energy storage elements (e.g., cells of a battery module) while decoupled from the charging path. The system can recouple the decoupled subset of energy storage devices to the plurality of the energy storage devices; and decouple another subset of energy storage devices based on measurements and / or estimations, associated with the storage devices, from the plurality of energy storage devices. The plurality of the SIMs is further configured to discharge a subset of the energy storage devices and decouple another subset based on the measurements and / or estimations associated with the storage devices. Every energy storage device from the subset of the decoupled energy storage devices can balance its internal energy storage elements (e.g., cells of a battery module) while decoupled from the discharging path. The system can recouple the decoupled subset of energy storage devices to the plurality of energy storage devices; and decouple another subset of energy storage devices based on the measurements and / or estimations associated with the storage devices from the plurality of energy storage devices. Each of the plurality of SIMs can further include a DC-to-DC converter in a parallel / series network; wherein one side of the DC-to-DC converter is connected to a DC load and another side of the DC-to-DC converter is connected to an energy storage device; wherein each of the plurality of SIMs is configured to magnetically or optically isolate the energy storage device fromthe DC load; wherein each of the plurality of SIMs is configured to balance an energy storage device via a DC load; wherein the energy storage device is balanced via remote or local control; wherein each of the plurality of SIMs is configured to adjust a method of control associated with each of the plurality of SIMs to maintain a maximum system efficiency.

[0012] The present disclosure provides a system for selectively charging or discharging the plurality of energy storage devices associated with a plurality of electrically connected powertrain modules, the system comprising the plurality of electrically connected powertrain modules configured as smart integrated modules (SIMs), wherein each of the SIMs is configured to: either electrically connect its associated energy storage device to a charging or a discharging path, or bypass its associated energy storage device from a charging or a discharging path based on some, or any, of the following: comparing its associated energy storage device state of charge with the state of charge of other energy storage devices associated with other SIMs in the series string, comparing the temperature of the energy storage device associated with the SIM with the temperature of other energy storage devices or SIMs, or a faulty condition with the SIM or its associated energy storage device, a frequency a first electrically connected powertrain module of the electrically connected powertrain modules is placed in a current discharge path based on comparing a state of charge associated with the first electrically connected powertrain module with a state of charge associated with a second electrically connected powertrain module of the electrically connected powertrain modules; remove the second electrically connected powertrain module from a charging path while simultaneously charging based on the state of charge associated with the second electrically connected powertrain module; remove an electrically connected powertrain module of the electrically connected powertrain modules based on a temperature of the electrically connected powertrain module; or remove the electrically connected powertrain module based on a malfunction associated with the electrically connected powertrain module; and wherein the state of charge of the second electrically connected powertrain module is higher than a state of charge of the first electrically connected powertrain module.

[0013] The present disclosure provides a system comprising: a plurality of AC loads, a plurality of strings of series-connected power converters; a plurality of electrically connected powertrain modules; and a plurality of switching devices,wherein the plurality of switching devices turn the plurality of AC loads on or off from each of the plurality of strings; wherein each of the plurality of strings individually controls any AC load of the plurality of AC loads separately from one or more strings of the plurality of strings; wherein each of the plurality of strings individually controls any AC load of the plurality of AC loads in parallel to remaining strings of the plurality of strings; wherein each of the plurality of strings power one AC load of the plurality of AC loads; and wherein each of the plurality of strings is wired in parallel to power the plurality of AC loads.

[0014] The present disclosure provides a system comprising: a plurality of electrically connected powertrain modules configured as smart integrated modules (SIMs), wherein each of the SIMs include a plurality of electrical sources and a plurality of electrical loads in a network of series-connected power converters; and wherein each of the plurality of electrically connected powertrain modules are configured to produce multiple voltage outputs while simultaneously splitting a current associated with an energy storage device.

[0015] The present disclosure provides a system comprising: a plurality of electrically connected powertrain modules configured as smart integrated modules (SIMs), wherein each of the SIMs include a DC-to-DC converter; wherein one side of the DC-to-DC converter is electrically connected to the SIM’s associated energy storage device, while the secondary side of the DC-to-DC converter is electrically connected in parallel, series or a combination thereof with the secondary sides of the DC-to-DC converters of the other SIMs to produce one or more DC voltage output at different voltage levels to different DC networks associated with the system; wherein AC power is connected to the DC power terminals (e.g., high-voltage DC power terminals) and transmits power to an energy storage device associated with each of the plurality of electrically connected powertrain modules; wherein each of the plurality of electrically connected powertrain modules further includes at least one transformer; and wherein an energy storage device associated with each of the plurality of electrically connected powertrain modules is separated from an electrical load or an electrical source associated with each of the plurality of electrically connected power train modules.

[0016] All of the features described with regard to the various aspects can be combined individually or in (sub-)combinations with other aspects. Individual aspects are explained with regard to devices, others with regard to a method.However, the aspects may be implemented individually or in any combination.

[0017] Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. It should be understood that the description and specific examples are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.DRAWINGS

[0018] In order that the disclosure may be well understood, there will now be described various forms thereof, given by way of example, reference being made to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0019] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a power conversion system in accordance with various implementations;

[0020] FIG. 2. depicts a charging and a discharging phase of a charge pump associated with power distribution system in accordance with various implementations;

[0021] FIG. 3 depicts an example operation of a smart integrated module associated with the power distribution system in accordance with various implementations;

[0022] FIGS. 4-7 depict an example on-board charging topology for one or more smart integrated modules and example operations associated with the one or more smart integrated modules in accordance with various implementations;

[0023] FIG. 8 depicts an example topology of a bidirectional DC-to-DC converter associated with one or more smart integrated modules in accordance with various implementations;

[0024] FIG. 9 depicts an example topology of a DC-to-DC converter associated with one or more smart integrated modules in accordance with various implementations;

[0025] FIG. 10 is a graphical representation illustrating an efficiency of one or more smart integrated modules in accordance with various implementations;

[0026] FIGS. 11 and 12 are schematic diagrams depicting the distribution of an AC load in accordance with various implementations;

[0027] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram depicting the configuration of an electric load within a smart integrated module; and

[0028] FIG. 14 depicts a configuration of one or more DC outputs associated with one or more smart integrated modules in accordance with various implementations.

[0029] The drawings described herein are for illustration purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] The following description is merely exemplary and does not intend to limit the present disclosure, application, or uses. It should be understood that throughout the drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate like or corresponding parts and features.

[0031] The present disclosure provides one or more means for distributing and managing power associated with an operation of an electric mobility application (e.g., an electric vehicle). Various systems and methods associated with the controlling of power of the electric vehicle, and with which the present disclosure may be implemented, are illustrated and described in international application number PCT / US2023 / 011513, and provisional application number 65 / 517,555 which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0032] For example, one or more systems and methods provide a means for utilizing charge pump gate drivers within a network of modular series-connected converters, which allows for capabilities for ultra-high and / or ultra-low duty cycles in multilevel converters. One or more herein described systems and methods provide a solution to conventional bootstrap gate drivers that are used to power converters as they face limitations regarding duty cycle range. For example, one or more conventional implementations rely on self-driven mechanisms to charge bootstrap capacitors, which could affect the ability to function, and / or the reliability of functioning, at extreme duty cycles (e.g., near 0% or 100%). Such a limitation poses a challenge for modular multilevel converters, where operating some of the converters at ultra-low or ultra-high duty cycles is desirable. The use of a charge pump can support these cycles through supplying the bootstrap capacitor using an external circuit as described in more detail herein in connection with various examples.

[0033] As another example, one or more systems and methods provide a means for one or more smart integrated modules (SIMs) to communicate and / or make autonomous decisions associated with power management without use of acentral or master controller. As such, challenges associated with the management of power across a network of dispersed SIMs due to inherent physical separation of energy storage devices are reduced or eliminated. Such challenges would otherwise provide limitations to robust communication and collaborative decision-making between SIMs that allow for maintaining stability, balance, and / or protection. One or more examples also provide a solution to a reliance upon a centralized architecture with a single master controller collecting data from all distributed components and making centralized decisions. As such, one or more herein described examples do not suffer from communication bottlenecks, single points of failure, and / or limited responsiveness. As network size and complexity increase, data volume overwhelms central controllers, leading to delays and inefficiencies. If a central controller malfunctions, the malfunctions can compromise the entire system. Additionally, centralized decision-making can be slow and inflexible, which hinders adaptation to rapid changes or unexpected events. One or more of such limitations are mitigated by provision of a means for one or more SIMs to communication and / or make autonomous decisions without the need of a central or master controller, as described in more detail herein.

[0034] As yet another example, one or more systems and methods, described herein, provide a means for providing on-board charging for an unlimited number of SIMs with one transformer. The systems and methods provide a solution to on-board charging that is typically created with a dual active bridge circuit in conventional electric vehicles. These typical circuits are created by using an H-bridge connected to the primary of a transformer, while the secondary of the transformer is connected to another H-bridge. Since conventional systems use high-voltage battery packs, high-voltage components are required for this type of circuit. Some of these high-voltage components are not needed in a modular inverter as each SIM has a modular converter capable of providing current to or from the energy storage device. Such circuitry provides limitations to providing the power required for offering on-board charging for an unlimited number of SIMs. Such limitations are mitigated by providing on-board charging for an unlimited number of SIMs with one transformer in accordance with one or more examples described herein.

[0035] As a further example, one or more systems and methods provide a means for selectively targeting SIM(s) for focused charging or discharging of current. These systems and methods provide a solution to conventional electric vehiclepowertrains that use large battery packs. As this conventional system requires the flow of charging / discharging current to all the conventional system’s battery cells and modules, the conventional system cannot separate sections of the battery from the charging / discharging current. Thus, the conventional system’s ability to balance the voltage or the (state of charge) SOC levels between the conventional system’s battery cells is limited. Additionally, overheating or required protection of certain cells or groups of cells may require all charging / discharging to stop. One or more implementations selectively target SIM(s) for focused charging or discharging of current.

[0036] As an additional example, one or more systems and methods provide a means for achieving simultaneous energy storage device balancing of the energy storage device during charging / discharging within individual SIMs, as described herein. The systems and methods provide a solution to conventional systems that prefer to stop charging to rebalance the voltage or SOC among all energy storage devices, which could result in interruptions in charging, leading to wasted time. One or more implementations concurrently balance and charge / discharge within individual SIMs.

[0037] For example, one or more systems and methods provide a means for providing an unlimited number of AC loads by using one or more strings of series- connected power converters. The systems and methods provide a solution to a conventional electric vehicle system where multiple AC loads are powered with one large battery pack (e.g., modular multilevel systems, wherein the energy storage device(s) is separated by modules that creates a challenge in powering multiple AC loads). When strings of power-connected power converters are attached to a specific AC load, an imbalance in the energy storage device(s) amongst strings of series- connected power converters can develop as AC loads may require different power levels. In one or more implementations, one or more strings of series-connected power converters are provided in connection with an AC load.

[0038] In another example, one or more systems and methods provide a means for dynamically configuring an unlimited number of energy storage devices within one SIM. These systems and methods provide a solution to a conventional electric vehicle system wherein a large battery pack is used. The battery pack is capable of supplying both high current and high voltage. Often, AC loads require higher current at lower voltages or higher voltages with lower current. In a modularmultilevel system, each SIM provides higher currents and voltages (though not simultaneously). To prevent oversizing the battery pack, one or more implementations configure multiple energy storage device(s) within one SIM in a network of series- connected power converters. This allows each SIM to produce multiple voltage outputs while splitting the current required from each electrical source / load(s) at lower voltages.

[0039] In yet another example, one or more systems and methods provide a means for providing multiple DC outputs using a DC-to-DC converter on each SIM. These systems and methods provide a solution to conventional electric vehicles that often require multiple DC voltage levels. In traditional systems, a centralized DC-to-DC converter feeds the auxiliary loads from the high-voltage DC bus. In modular multilevel systems, powering multiple DC voltages / loads while maintaining energy storage device independence between modules presents a challenge. One or more implementations utilize a DC-to-DC converter on each SIM. This configuration enables the DC load to be supported by any or all of the energy storage device(s) of the SIMs.

[0040] Referring to FIG. 1 , among other components, an electric power system 100 is provided in a vehicle (not shown), such as a car, an airplane, a boat, or any other electrical motorized vehicle. The electric power system 100 includes, among other components, a plurality of power control modules, configured in some examples as SIMs 102a-102h. Each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h includes at least one energy storage devices 104a-104h (e.g., at least one battery module) electrically connected to at least one powertrain module 106a-106h. While the electric power system 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 depicts a total of eight electrically connected SIMs 102a-102h, it is understood that the electric power system 100 may include additional or fewer SIMs as is necessary or desired for any application.

[0041] The plurality of SIMs 102a-102h are electrically connected to at least one bus bar. As another example, a set of SIMs of the plurality of SIMs 102a- 102h may be electrically connected to a bus bar 108a having a first voltage, such as 12 volts (V), while another set of SIMs of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h may be electrically connected to another bus bar 108b having a second voltage different than the first voltage, such as 48V. It is understood that each of the set of SIMs of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h and each of the bus bars 108a, 108b are included within the electric power system 100, and the bus bars can have different voltages. FIG. 1also depicts that the AC power may feed into the electric motor and / or AC charger(s). Further, each of the two bus bars 108a, 108b are connected to the vehicle’s auxiliary load(s). The electric power system 100 in various examples is configured to be implemented in single-phase, three-phase, and / or multi-phase application(s).

[0042] Each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h includes a direct current to alternating current (DC-to-AC) inverter, a DC-to-DC converter, an on-board DC and an on-board AC, a battery management system, and an electric controller. The DC- to-AC inverter is configured to generate AC power to a motor associated with the electric power system 100 from the at least one energy storage devices 104a-104h. For example, the motor is an electric motor that powers the vehicle. In one embodiment, the DC-to-AC inverter is provided as a three-level inverter having power electronics including power electronic switches, such as a metal-oxide- semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET), an insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT), a thyristor or a gate turn-off thyristor (GTO), among others. The power electronic switches are operable by a power controller (not shown) to generate a desired drive power output. In one form, the DC-to-AC inverter is provided as a bidirectional inverter, where output terminals connect to one another in series and parallel configurations to provide power to the electric motor. It should be readily understood that the DC-to-AC inverter may include additional and / or other components and should not be limited to what has been described herein. For example, the DC-to-AC inverter may include filters and / or components to isolate the DC-to-AC inverter from the DC-to-DC converter.

[0043] The DC-to-DC converter is configured to generate DC power to an auxiliary load from the at least one energy storage devices 104a-104h energy storage modules 104a-104h of each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h. The DC-to- DC converter is provided as an isolated converter having electronics such as, but not limited to, a flyback converter, half-bridge circuit, full-bridge circuit, and / or inductors and capacitor. In an embodiment, the DC-to-DC converter provides regulated DC output at 12V or 48V levels. However, the DC-to-DC converter can be configured in various suitable ways to individually or in association with other DC-to-DC converters provide auxiliary power output(s) to one or more bus bars 108a, 108b (e.g., one or more power buses), and should not be limited to the configuration illustrated in FIG. 1 . In one form, the DC-to-DC converter is a bidirectional converter. It should be readily understood that the DC-to-DC converter may include additional and / or othercomponents and should not be limited to what has been described herein. For example, the DC-to-DC converter may include filters, and / or may not include components to isolate the DC-to-DC converter from the DC-to-AC inverter.

[0044] Both of the on-board DC charger and the on-board AC charger are configured to charge the at least one energy storage devices 104a-104h of each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h from an electric grid or any other electrical power source(s). The energy storage management system is configured to at least control, monitor, and / or protect the at least one energy storage devices 104a-104h of each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h. The electric controller(s) is configured to digitally control each of the subsystems associated with the electric power system 100 using local measurements. However, it is understood that the electric controller is configured to digitally control each of the subsystems associated with the electric power system 100 using any measurements. It is also understood that the electric controller(s) is configured to control each of the subsystems associated with the electric power system 100 using manual means, hybrid digital / manual means, or any other means.

[0045] A charge pump gate driver 200 is integrated within each of the plurality of SIMS 102a-102h. As an example, the charge pump gate driver 200 is illustrated in FIG. 2. As a general example associated with a functionality of the charge pump gate driver 200, the charge pump gate driver 200 is a circuit that maintains voltage to the bootstrap capacitor(s). The voltage to the bootstrap capacitor is maintained by charging a flying capacitor 202 of the charge pump gate driver 200 and discharging the flying capacitor 202 of the charge pump gate driver 200, for example. FIG. 2 illustrates a discharge flow 204 and a charge flow 206 associated with a distribution of power to the bootstrap capacitor. For example, in an instance where the charge flow 206 and the discharge flow 204 are activated, the charge pump gate driver 200 can cause a first gate 208 to close (e.g., turn OFF) and a fourth gate 210 to close so that the discharge flow 204 can be output across the flying capacitor 202. The charge pump gate driver 200 can simultaneously cause a third gate 212 to open (e.g., turn ON) and a second gate 214 to open so that the charge flow 206 can be output across the flying capacitor 202.

[0046] The charge pump gate driver 200 provides each of the plurality of SIMS 102a-102h with an ability to operate at extreme duty cycles (e.g., approximately 0% or approximately 100%). For example, in an instance wherein an AC voltage is within a range of a specific SIM of the plurality of SIM’s 102a-102h internal sourceand / or internal load, the converter operates at a high frequency. As another example, the operation at the high frequency allows for the specific SIM of the plurality of SIMS 102a-102h to operate at a high level of frequency, which allows for the specific SIM of the plurality of SIMS 102a-102h to precisely control its power distribution.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 3, and as a further example to what has been discussed in the description related to FIG. 2, a first set of SIMs 300a illustrates an allotment of power distribution associated with a first SIM 302a of the first set of SIMs 300a in the instance wherein the converter operates at a high frequency. A second SIM 304a and any number of SIMs 306a are placed in a charge mode while the power distribution is controlled by the first SIM 302a. Such an allotment of power distribution is depicted by a first graphical representation 308 that shows a first reference signal 310. The first reference signal 310 is shown as a first sinusoidal waveform representing the positive and negative status of a duty cycle passing through the first SIM 302a of the first set of SIMs 300a. An upward trajectory of the first reference signal 310 equates to the positive cycle. A crest 312a of the first reference signal 310 represents a duty cycle at 100% capacity. A downward trajectory of the first reference signal 310 equates to the negative cycle. A trough 314a of the first reference signal 310 represents the duty cycle at 0% capacity. It is understood that the charge pump gate driver 200 may handle any load associated with any range within the duty cycle represented in FIG. 3 (i.e., 0% - 100%).

[0048] As another example, in an instance wherein an AC voltage is not within the range of the specific SIM of the plurality of SIM’s 102a-102h internal energy storage device, the converter operates at either a 100% duty cycle or a 0% duty cycle. As a further example, a second set of SIMs 300b illustrates an allotment of power distribution associated with both a first SIM 302b and a second SIM 304b in the instance wherein the converter operates at either a 100% duty cycle or a 0% duty cycle. For example, as the AC voltage exceeds the range of the specific SIM of the plurality of SIM’s 102a-102h internal energy storage device, the first SIM 302b switches fully ON, providing approximately 100% duty cycle while the second SIM 304b begins a high frequency operation. Any number of SIMS 306b are placed in a charge mode while the power distribution is handled by both the first SIM 302b and the second SIM 304b.

[0049] Such an allotment of power distribution is depicted by a second graphical representation 314 that shows a second reference signal 316. The secondreference signal 316 is shown as a second sinusoidal waveform representing the positive and negative status of a duty cycle passing through the first SIM 302b and the second SIMs 304b of the second set of SIMs 300b. An upward trajectory of the second reference signal 316 equates to the positive cycle. A crest 312b of the second reference signal 316 represents a duty cycle at 100% capacity. A downward trajectory of the second reference signal 316 equates to the negative cycle. A trough 314b of the second reference signal 316 represents the duty cycle at 0% capacity.

[0050] In an embodiment, a decentralized approach to managing power loads associated with the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h and / or modular converters is thereby provided through the utilization of a shared communication pool. Through the utilization of the shared communication pool, each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h can communicate any type of data originating from each respective energy storage device to any component within the electric power system 100. It is understood that each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h can communicate any type of data originating from each of their respective energy storage device to any component even associated with the electric power system 100 that may exist, for example, outside the electric power system 100. The energy storage device(s) associated with each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h can be organized in ascending or descending order through the utilization of the shared communication pool. For example, the energy storage device(s) associated with each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h can be organized in ascending or descending order based on data originating from a particular SIM of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h relative to other SIMs in the network (e.g., a comparison can be made between data originating from the particular SIM of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h relative to the other SIMs in the network). As a further example, a level of the energy storage device(s) can be a basis of the determination of the order each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h are placed in. As another example, the energy storage device(s) associated with each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h can be autonomously organized in ascending or descending order and / or communicate data without an external controller or master component. As yet another example, based on the energy storage device(s) associated with each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h that can be organized in ascending or descending order and / or communicate data, each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h can adjust their respective output / input so that their respective voltage(s) and / or state of charge(s) can be balanced through the load and / or charging to protect the energy storage devices ofthe other SIMs in the network. As an additional example, the order that each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h are placed in can be indicative of a priority of which SIMs of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h may require charging or any other support. As a further example, each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h can make decisions associated with the communication of data and / or the order by which they are placed in (e.g., based on their data in comparison to other SIMs on the network) based on local measurements such as temperature, current, voltage, or a combination thereof. It is understood that each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h can make decisions based on any metric and from any source, such as one or more remote measurements. For example, the decisions made by each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h may be made by an internal controller integrated within each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h.

[0051] Within the embodiment relative to the decentralized approach to managing power loads associated with the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h, each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h retain operative characteristics associated with real-time data acquisition, network-aware decision-making, and autonomous execution. For example, each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h can continuously collect and / or analyze local sensor data (e.g., temperature, current, voltage, or a combination thereof). As another example, each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h can access and / or utilize data from the other SIMs in the network so that each of the SIMs 102a- 102h can have a comprehensive system state understanding. As a further example, each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h can make independent decisions (e.g., control decisions) based on local data and / or network data including output adjustments, selfprotection and inter-SIM protection, system performance optimization, or a combination thereof. As an example, the output adjustments can involve any of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h modifying its output to balance network supply and demand. As an additional example, the self-protection and inter-SIM protection can involve any of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h implementing safety measures against overloads, under-voltages, etc., and protects the other SIMs in the network. As a further example, the system performance optimization can involve any of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h making real-time adjustments to maximize efficiency and / or minimizing energy losses.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 4, an onboard charging topology 400 utilizing at least one H-bridge on each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h connected to a secondary side 402 of a transformer 404 is illustrated. It is understood that each of theplurality of SIMs 102a-102h have modular series connected H-bridges disposed therein. The onboard charging topology 400 generally includes a rectifier circuit 406, an inverter circuit 408, and the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h. The onboard charging topology 400 is configured to provide power through one or more low-voltage H- bridges disposed onboard each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h. The rectifier circuit 406 is configured to change the grid AC voltage to a DC voltage, which is ultimately connected to the inverter circuit 408. The inverter circuit 408 is configured to change the power output from the DC voltage to a high frequency AC voltage (e.g., greater than 1 kHz). Causing the AC voltage to be changed to the DC voltage and then back to the AC voltage enables a smaller transformer to be used for on-board charging. Furthermore, causing for the AC voltage to be changed to the DC voltage and then back to the AC voltage enables the voltage on the secondary side of the transformer 404 to supply power to each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h.

[0053] FIG. 5 shows an onboard charging topology 500 that illustrates the enablement of a targeted current flow that a module series-connected H-bridge provides each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h. For example, the targeted current flow can run through a specific SIM of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h without affecting the input power and / or outpower associated with the electric power system 100.

[0054] Power (e.g., source and / or loads) originating at least from a second SIM 502 and any number of SIMs 504 is depicted as flowing toward a targeted module (e.g., a first SIM 506) in FIG. 5. Such a targeted delivery of the power can balance a SOC across each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h. For example, in an instance wherein a controller determines that a particular SIM of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h has a higher SOC compared to other energy storage devices associated with the other SIMs of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h, the frequency that the particular SIM is placed in a current discharge path may increase. As another example, the particular SIM can be removed from a charging path in an instance where the electric power system 100 is charging. By removing the particular SIM from the charging path, balance is created amongst the energy storage devices across the network. Such balance is created as the SIMs of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h with lower SOC energy storage devices will charge more frequently at least until the corresponding SOCs reach the levels of the SIMs of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h that are higher.

[0055] As an additional example, the controller can determine a temperature associated with any of the SIMs of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h. Forexample, in a case wherein a particular SIM is operating with a high-temperature (e.g., above a defined value), that particular SIM can be temporarily excluded from charging and or discharging associated with the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h. As another example, the controller can further determine that a particular SIM of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h has malfunctioned and / or is faulty. As yet another example, in a case wherein the particular SIM has been identified as having malfunctioned and / or is faulty, the particular SIM can be isolated from the flow of power.

[0056] FIGS. 6 and 7 show an onboard charging topology 600 that illustrates a simultaneous energy storage device balancing routine that occurs during charging, or discharging, associated with one or more SIMs of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h. For example, the simultaneous energy storage device balancing routine that occurs during charging, or discharging, is provided within each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h. As is described above, current can be directed to, or from, a targeted energy storage device based on the modularity of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h disposed within the electric power system 100. Such modularity of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h provides for any of the SIMs of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h to balance respective energy storage devices utilizing passive and / or active techniques while the unaffected SIMs disposed within the electric power system 100 continues to charge.

[0057] In an instance wherein the energy storage device balancing routine is implemented, any affected SIMs of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h utilize respective open-circuit voltages to eliminate any influence associated with the charging current and / or to facilitate precise adjustments to the affected SIM(s) of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h. As an example, in the instance wherein the energy storage device balancing routine is implemented, specific SIMs of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h can receive a dedicated charging current while other SIMs of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h simultaneously undergo balancing. However, it is understood that the other SIMs of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h can undergo balancing at any time. It is also understood that this decoupling-related operation allows for uninterrupted charging across the electric power system 100.

[0058] FIG. 6 specifically depicts an instance wherein the first SIM 506 is balanced, and thus has power flowing (e.g., a charging loop) through the first SIM 506. While power runs through the first SIM 506, both the second SIM 502 and the any number of SIMs 504 are left out of the charging loop so that the elements of the energy storage device (e.g., battery cells) can be balanced. FIG. 7 specifically depictsan instance wherein the second SIM 502 is rebalanced, and thus re-enters the charging queue while the first SIM 506 begins the energy storage device balancing routine. As an example, the electric power system 100 is further able to balance any of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h during discharging of the cells. For example, if an AC load does not require all of the SIMs of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h at any given point, the electric power system 100 will cause at least some of the SIMs of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h to be removed from the power flow path so that the electric power system 100 may balance itself.

[0059] FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate a topography 700 related to scalable power balancing associated with the implementation of bidirectional DC-to-DC converters within the electric power system 100. For example, at least one bidirectional DC-to-DC converter of the bidirectional DC-to-DC converters is integrated within each of the SIMs of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h. As another example, the DC load side 702 of the bidirectional DC-to-DC converters is connected in a parallel / series network while the other side 704 is connected to the SIM’s energy storage device.

[0060] In some examples, connecting the DC load sides 702 in parallel enables power-sharing between each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h. For example, by connecting the DC load sides 702 in parallel, power from a SIM with a higher voltage and / or a higher SOC is able to be transferred to SIMs with a lower voltage and / or a lower SOC. As another example, a SIM may transfer power to another SIM’s energy storage device via a parallel connection between at least two bi-directional DC- to-DC converters (e.g., respective to the SIM and the another SIM) to provide a balancing routine to level a low voltage and / or a low SOC. As yet another example, by connecting the DC load sides 702 in parallel, individual SIMs of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h are able to isolate their energy storage devices contributions to an overall DC load 706.

[0061] Referring particularly to FIG. 9, an alternative balancing routine utilizing at least one DC-to-DC converter in combination with dedicated discharge paths in a DC-to-DC converter model 800 is depicted therein. For example, one or more DC-to-DC converters equipped to dynamically control DC output ports through remote control and / or local control are integrated within each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h. For example, the electrical sources and / or electrical loads can be balanced through the DC load based on the DC-to-DC converter model 800. Asanother example, energy storage devices with higher voltage and / or SOC can provide more power to the DC load 706 while energy storage devices with lower voltage and / or SOC can contribute less power to the DC load 706. It is understood, however, that the energy storage devices with lower voltage and / or SOC can contribute no power at all to the DC load 706. As a further example, through usage and / or time, the electrical sources and / or electrical loads associated with each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h will discharge down to a level where each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h are balanced.

[0062] FIG. 10 illustrates a graphical representation 900 of the function of the topography 700 related to scalable power balancing associated with the implementation of the DC-to-DC converters within the electric power system 100. The graphical representation depicts an instance where a method of control of each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h are adjusted so that the efficiency associated with the electric power system 100 is maintained at a maximum.

[0063] For example, the same DC load is supplied to the DC-to-DC converter of each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h. The controller is configured to determine which SIM(s) of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h would provide an output through the DC-to-DC converter and / or how much contribution each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h would be required to achieve maximum system efficiency.

[0064] As an example, the curve representing input at 12 Volts 902 can achieve maximum efficiency 904 at approximately 6 Amps, which amounts to approximately 72 Watts. As another example, in a case wherein a load is 150 Watts, and four SIMs are connected in the network, based on the curves shown in FIG. 9, for the electric power system 100 to operate at maximum efficiency would likely require use of two SIMs at approximately 75 Watts each while turning the two SIMs with the lowest SOC OFF. By optimizing the network with four SIMs in this way, the efficiency of the electric power system 100 would be approximately 88% at 906. As an alternative, if all three SIMs evenly shared the load, then each of the three SIMs would provide approximately 50 Watts, which would cause the efficiency of the electric power system 100 to be approximately 86%.

[0065] FIG. 11 depicts circuitry 1000 illustrating the provision of at least two or more AC loads (e.g., a first AC load 1002 and a second AC load 1004) via the utilization of one or more strings of series-connected power converters. FIG. 11 specifically depicts an example configuration of the circuitry 1000 wherein each stringof the series-connected power converters can individually control any AC load separately or in parallel with any other string of the series-connected power converters. For example, because each of the AC loads are wired to each of the series-connected power converters, power can be supplied to an unlimited number of AC loads enabling the balancing of any number of energy storage devices across strings. As another example, if an AC load draws more power than another AC load, the respective string of the series-connected power converters with a higher voltage and or SOC can be used enabling a balancing routine that can be implemented across various strings of the series-connected power converters supplying different AC loads.

[0066] FIG. 12 depicts an alternative circuitry 1100 in comparison to FIG. 11 wherein each string of the series-connected power converters can power a single AC load or be placed in parallel to supply different AC loads at the same time by reducing the number of switches used.

[0067] FIG. 13 illustrates an example configuration 1200 of energy storage devices within a single SIM of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h. For example, the placement of multiple energy storage devices within the single SIM of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h allows each SIM of the plurality of SIMs to produce multiple voltage outputs while splitting a current required from energy storage devices at lower voltages. As an example, in order for energy storage devices BT1 1202 and BT2 1204 or BT3 1206 and BT4 1208 to be placed within a parallel configuration, electrical switching elements Q1 1210 and Q3 1212 are ON. As another example, in order for the energy storage devices BT1 1202 and BT2 1204 or BT3 1206 and BT4 1208 to be placed within a series configuration, Q2 1214 is ON.

[0068] FIG. 14 illustrates an example of circuitry 1300 that provides a plurality of DC outputs on each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h by using a DC-to- DC converter so that the DC load can be supported by any of the plurality of SIM’s 102a-102h energy storage device. For example, each of the plurality of SIMs 102a- 102h have a respective DC-to-DC converter integrated therein. As an example, any of the plurality of DC outputs can produce different voltage levels to support different DC networks. As an additional example, the plurality of DC outputs are connected within each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h in either a parallel configuration, a series configuration, or a parallel / series configuration. As yet another example, the plurality of DC outputs are connected within each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h in eithera parallel configuration, a series configuration, or a parallel / series configuration based on a required voltage and / or current of the DC load.

[0069] In an example embodiment, a multi-winding transformer generates both DC output 1 1302 and DC output 2 1304. As is depicted in FIG. 13, DC output 1 1302 is connected in parallel to support a low voltage DC load 1306 while DC output 2 is connected in series to support a high voltage DC load 1308.

[0070] In one or more embodiments a modular electric powertrain system that provides for AC charging utilizing isolation on each of the plurality of SIMS 102a-102h in a modular multilevel system. For example, in such a modular multilevel system, the energy storage devices are separated from each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h so that a single transformer may be utilized on each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h.

[0071] For example, an AC input can be connected or disconnected to the same power source providing the high-voltage DC load. As another example, the AC input frequency of each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h can be increased and passed to each transformer of each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h simultaneously or separately. As a further example, the AC input frequency of each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h can be increased and passed to each transformer of each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h based on each of the plurality of SIMs 102a-102h having respective switching circuitry integrated therein. As yet another example, the AC can be turned back to the appropriate DC through the utilization of the H-bridge connected to each of the plurality of SIM’s 102a-102h energy storage devices.

[0072] Based on the foregoing, the following provides a general overview of the present disclosure and is not a comprehensive summary. In a first one or more embodiments A1 , a system for decentralized power management comprising a plurality of electrically connected powertrain modules configured as smart integrated modules (SIMs) is disclosed. In one or more embodiments, each SIM of the plurality of SIMs includes a plurality of energy storage devices and a plurality of switching devices. In one or more embodiments, each SIM of the plurality of SIMs are arranged as a plurality of series-connected strings configured to produce voltage outputs while simultaneously splitting a current associated with each storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices. In one or more embodiments, each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is also configured to provide access, via an AC interface, to an AC load, an AC source, or a combination thereof. In one or more embodiments, each SIM of theplurality of SIMs is further configured to provide access, via a DC interface, to a DC load, a DC source, or a combination thereof.

[0073] In a second one or more embodiments A2, which may include the first one or more embodiments A1 , each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is further configured to adjust a power flow into the plurality of energy storage devices associated with each SIM of the plurality of SIMs in a descending order. In one or more embodiments, the adjustment of the power flow is based on a plurality of power-related parameters and power-related conditions associated with each SIM of the plurality of SIMs. Each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is also configured to decouple one or more subsets of SIMs of the plurality of SIMs within a string from a charging path. Each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is additionally configured to recouple the one or more subsets of SIMs of the plurality of SIMs to regulate the one or more power-related parameters and the power-related conditions of each SIM of the plurality of SIMs.

[0074] In a third one or more embodiments A3, which may include any combination of the first through second one or more embodiments A1-A2, each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is further configured to adjust a power flow out of the plurality of energy storage devices associated with each SIM of the plurality of SIMs in an ascending order. In one or more embodiments, the adjustment of the power flow is based on a plurality of power-related parameters and power-related conditions associated with each SIM of the plurality of SIMs. Each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is also configured to decouple one or more subsets of SIMs of the plurality of strings within a string from a discharge path. Each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is additionally configured to recouple the one or more subsets of SIMs of the plurality of SIMs to regulate the one or more power-related parameters and the power-related conditions of each SIM of the plurality of SIMs.

[0075] In a fourth one or more embodiments A4, which may include any combination of the first through third one or more embodiments A1-A3, each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is further configured to perform one or more control operations based on one or more measurements, one or more estimations, data acquisition, network-aware decision-making, autonomous execution, or a combination thereof.

[0076] In a fifth one or more embodiments A5, which may include any combination of the first through fourth one or more embodiments A1-A4, the one or more measurements or the one or more estimations are based on local measurements of the other SIMs of the plurality of SIMs, remote measurements of the other SIMs ofthe plurality of SIMs, or remote estimations of the other SIMs of the plurality of SIMs; one or more control decisions corresponding to the network-aware decision-making are optimized to maximize system efficiency; and the one or more measurements include a temperature, a current, a voltage, a state of charge estimation, a state of health estimation, a state of life estimation, a degradation estimation, or a combination thereof.

[0077] In a sixth one or more embodiments A6, which may include any combination of the first through fifth one or more embodiments A1-A5, each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is further configured to receive power through at least one of the AC interface or the DC interface disposed on each SIM of the plurality of SIMs. In one or more embodiments, the power is received through an isolation transformer. In one or more embodiments, a secondary side of the transformer is connected to one or more power converters configured to regulate a power flow into the plurality of energy storage devices associated with each SIM of the plurality of SIMs.

[0078] In a seventh one or more embodiments A7, which may include any combination of the first through sixth one or more embodiments A1-A6, each power converter of the one or more power converters is configured to regulate the power flow is further configured to balance local measurements or local estimations associated with each energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices within each SIM of the plurality of SIMs during charging.

[0079] In an eighth one or more embodiments A8, which may include any combination of the first through seventh one or more embodiments A1 -A7, the DC interface within each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is comprised of one or more DC-DC converters. In one or more embodiments, a first side of each DC-to-DC converter of the one or more DC-to-DC converters is connected to each energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage device associated with a respective SIM of the plurality of SIMs. In one or more embodiments, a second side of each DC-to-DC converter of the one or more DC-to-DC converters is connected to the DC load or the DC source.

[0080] In a ninth one or more embodiments A9, which may include any combination of the first through eighth one or more embodiments A1 -A8, each DC-DC converter of the one or more DC-DC converters are further connected in series networks, parallel networks, or a combination thereof.

[0081] In a tenth one or more embodiments A10, which may include any combination of the first through ninth one or more embodiments A1-A9, each SIM of the plurality of SIMs of the plurality further includes at least one transformer.

[0082] In an eleventh one or more embodiments A11, which may include any combination of the firth through tenth one or more embodiments A1-A10, each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is further configured to balance each energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices via the DC load or the DC source.

[0083] In a twelfth one or more embodiments A12, which may include any combination of the first through eleventh one or more embodiments A1-A11 , a subset of the one or more DC-DC converters associated with each SIM of the plurality of SIMs proportional to a load power requirement is operational at a predetermined time.

[0084] In a thirteenth one or more embodiments A13, which may include any combination of the first through twelfth one or more embodiments A1-A12, each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is further configured to electrically isolate each energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices from the DC load or the DC source.

[0085] In a fourteenth one or more embodiments A14, which may include any combination of the first through thirteenth one or more embodiments A1-A13, the AC source is connected to the DC interface and configured to transmit power to each energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices associated with each SIM of the plurality of SIMs.

[0086] In a fifteenth one or more embodiments A15, which may include any combination of the first through fourteenth one or more embodiments A1-A14, each string of the plurality of series-connected strings individually supplies power to a single phase of a multi-phase AC load or a single-phase AC load.

[0087] In a sixteenth one or more embodiments, which may include any combination of the first through fifteenth one or more embodiments A1-A15, each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is arranged as a plurality of parallel-connected strings configured to power a plurality of AC loads.

[0088] In a seventeenth one or more embodiments A17, which may include any combination of the first through sixteenth one or more embodiments A1- 17, each SIM of the plurality of SIMs further includes one or more gate drivers configured to charge an intermediate bootstrap capacitor associated with the one ormore gate drivers. In one or more embodiments, charging the intermediate bootstrap capacitor generates a charging current path using at least one switching device of the plurality of switching devices. The one or more gate drivers are further configured to discharge power from the one or more gate drivers. In one or more embodiments, discharging the power flows into a bootstrap capacitor. In one or more embodiments, discharging the power generates a discharge current path based on a switching state of at least one switching device of the plurality of switching devices.

[0089] In an eighteenth one or more embodiments A18, which may include any combination of the first through seventeenth one or more embodiments A1-A17, each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is configured to exchange status information and control information through a shared communication pool.

[0090] In a nineteenth one or more embodiments A19, which may include any combination of the first through eighteenth one or more embodiments A1 - A18, a method for decentralized power management is disclosed. In one or more embodiments, the method comprises a step wherein voltage outputs are produced, by each smart integrated module (SIM) of a plurality of SIMs arranged as a plurality of series-connected strings, while simultaneously splitting a current associated with each energy storage device of a plurality of energy storage devices. In one or more embodiments, each SIM of the plurality of SIMs includes the plurality of energy storage devices and a plurality of switching devices. In one or more embodiments, the method also comprises a step wherein access is provided, via an AC interface, to an AC load, an AC source, or a combination thereof. In one or more embodiments, the method further comprises a step wherein access is provided, via a DC interface, to a DC load, a DC source, or a combination thereof.

[0091] In a twentieth one or more embodiments A20, which may include any combination of the first through nineteenth one or more embodiments A1-A19, one or more non-transitory computer-readable media storing processor-executable instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to produce, by each smart integrated module (SIM) of a plurality of SIMs arranged as a plurality of series-connected strings, voltage outputs while simultaneously splitting a current associated with each energy storage device of a plurality of energy storage devices. In one or more embodiments, the at least one processor is further caused to provide access, via an AC interface, to an AC load, anAC source, or a combination thereof. In one or more embodiments, the at least one processor is further caused to provide access, via a DC interface, to a DC load, a DC source, or a combination thereof.

[0092] All of the features described with regard to the various aspects can be combined individually or in (sub-)combinations with other aspects. Individual aspects are explained with regard to devices, others with regard to a method. However, the aspects are to be transferred mutually accordingly.

[0093] In the preceding, reference is made to various examples. However, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the specific described examples. Instead, any combination of the described features and elements, whether related to different examples or not, is contemplated to implement and practice contemplated examples. Furthermore, although examples may achieve advantages over other possible solutions or over the prior art, whether or not a particular advantage is achieved by a given example is not limiting of the scope of the present disclosure. Thus, the preceding aspects, features, examples and advantages are merely illustrative and are not considered elements or limitations of the appended claims except where explicitly recited in a claim(s).

[0094] Unless otherwise expressly indicated herein, all numerical values indicating mechanical / thermal properties, compositional percentages, dimensions and / or tolerances, or other characteristics are to be understood as modified by the word “about” or "approximately" in describing the scope of the present disclosure. This modification is desired for various reasons including industrial practice, material, manufacturing, and assembly tolerances, and testing capability.

[0095] As used herein, the phrase at least one of A, B, and C should be construed to mean a logical (A OR B OR C), using a non-exclusive logical OR, and should not be construed to mean “at least one of A, at least one of B, and at least one of C.”

[0096] In this application, the term “controller” and / or “module” may refer to, be part of, or include: an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC); a digital, analog, or mixed analog / digital discrete circuit; a digital, analog, or mixed analog / digital integrated circuit; a combinational logic circuit; a field programmable gate array (FPGA); a processor circuit (shared, dedicated, or group) that executes code; a memory circuit (shared, dedicated, or group) that stores code executed by the processor circuit; other suitable hardware components (e.g., op amp circuit integratoras part of the heat flux data module) that provide the described functionality; or a combination of some or all of the above, such as in a system-on-chip.

[0097] The term memory is a subset of the term computer-readable medium. The term computer-readable medium, as used herein, does not encompass transitory electrical or electromagnetic signals propagating through a medium (such as on a carrier wave); the term computer-readable medium may therefore be considered tangible and non-transitory. Non-limiting examples of a non-transitory, tangible computer-readable medium are nonvolatile memory circuits (such as a flash memory circuit, an erasable programmable read-only memory circuit, or a mask readonly circuit), volatile memory circuits (such as a static random access memory circuit or a dynamic random access memory circuit), magnetic storage media (such as an analog or digital magnetic tape or a hard disk drive), and optical storage media (such as a CD, a DVD, or a Blu-ray Disc).

[0098] The apparatuses and methods described in this application may be partially or fully implemented by a special purpose computer created by configuring a general-purpose computer to execute one or more particular functions embodied in computer programs. The functional blocks, flowchart components, and other elements described above serve as software specifications, which can be translated into the computer programs by the routine work of a skilled technician or programmer.

[0099] The description of the disclosure is merely exemplary in nature and, thus, variations that do not depart from the substance of the disclosure are intended to be within the scope of the disclosure. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A system for decentralized power management, the system comprising: a plurality of electrically connected powertrain modules configured as smart integrated modules (SIMs), wherein each SIM of the plurality of SIMs includes a plurality of energy storage devices and a plurality of switching devices, wherein each SIM of the plurality of SIMs are arranged as a plurality of series-connected strings configured to: produce voltage outputs while simultaneously splitting a current associated with each energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices; provide access, via an AC interface, to an AC load, an AC source, or a combination thereof; and provide access, via a DC interface, to a DC load, a DC source, or a combination thereof.

2. The system of Claim 1 , wherein each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is further configured to: adjust a power flow into the plurality of energy storage devices associated with each SIM of the plurality of SIMs in a descending order, wherein the adjustment of the power flow is based on a plurality of power-related parameters and power-related conditions associated with each SIM of the plurality of SIMs; decouple one or more subsets of SIMs of the plurality of SIMs within a string from a charging path; and recouple the one or more subsets of SIMs of the plurality of SIMs to regulate the one or more power-related parameters and the power-related conditions of each SIM of the plurality of SIMs.

3. The system of Claim 1 , wherein each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is further configured to: adjust a power flow out of the plurality of energy storage devices associated with each SIM of the plurality of SIMs in an ascending order, wherein the adjustmentof the power flow is based on a plurality of power-related parameters and power- related conditions associated with each SIM of the plurality of SIMs; decouple one or more subsets of SIMs of the plurality of strings within a string from a discharge path; and recouple the one or more subsets of SIMs of the plurality of SIMs to regulate the one or more power-related parameters and the power-related conditions of each SIM of the plurality of SIMs.

4. The system of Claim 1 , wherein each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is further configured to: perform one or more control operations based on one or more measurements, one or more estimations, data acquisition, network-aware decision-making, autonomous execution, or a combination thereof.

5. The system of Claim 4, wherein: the one or more measurements or the one or more estimations are based on local measurements of other SIMs of the plurality of SIMs, remote measurements of the other SIMs of the plurality of SIMs, or remote estimations of the other SIMs of the plurality of SIMs; one or more control decisions corresponding to the network-aware decisionmaking are optimized to maximize system efficiency; and the one or more measurements include a temperature, a current, a voltage, a state of charge estimation, a state of health estimation, a state of life estimation, a degradation estimation, or a combination thereof.

6. The system of Claim 1 , wherein each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is further configured to: receive power through at least one of the AC interface or the DC interface disposed on each SIM of the plurality of SIMs, wherein the power is received through an isolation transformer, and wherein a secondary side of the transformer is connected to one or more power converters configured to regulate a power flow into the plurality of energy storage devices associated with each SIM of the plurality of SIMs.

7. The system of Claim 6, wherein each power converter of the one or more power converters is configured to regulate the power flow is further configured to: balance local measurements or local estimations associated with each energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices within each SIM of the plurality of SIMs during charging.

8. The system of Claim 1 , wherein the DC interface within each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is comprised of: one or more DC-DC converters, wherein a first side of each DC-to-DC converter of the one or more DC-to-DC converters is connected to each energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage device associated with a respective SIM of the plurality of SIMs, and wherein a second side of each DC-to-DC converter of the one or more DC-to-DC converters is connected to the DC load or the DC source.

9. The system of Claim 8, wherein each DC-DC converter of the one or more DC- DC converters are further connected in series networks, parallel networks, or a combination thereof.

10. The system of Claim 8, wherein each SIM of the plurality of SIMs of the plurality further includes at least one transformer.

11. The system of Claim 8, wherein each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is further configured to: balance each energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices via the DC load or the DC source.

12. The system of Claim 9, wherein a subset of the one or more DC-DC converters associated with each SIM of the plurality of SIMs proportional to a load power requirement is operational at a predetermined time.

13. The system of Claim 1 , wherein each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is further configured to: electrically isolate each energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices from the DC load or the DC source.

14. The system of Claim 1 , wherein the AC source is connected to the DC interface and configured to transmit power to each energy storage device of the plurality of energy storage devices associated with each SIM of the plurality of SIMs.

15. The system of Claim 1 , wherein each string of the plurality of series-connected strings individually supplies power to a single phase of a multi-phase AC load or a single-phase AC load.

16. The system of Claim 1 , wherein each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is arranged as a plurality of parallel-connected strings configured to: power a plurality of AC loads.

17. The system of Claim 1, wherein each SIM of the plurality of SIMs further includes one or more gate drivers configured to: charge an intermediate bootstrap capacitor associated with the one or more gate drivers, wherein charging the intermediate bootstrap capacitor generates a charging current path using at least one switching device of the plurality of switching devices; and discharge power from the one or more gate drivers, wherein discharging the power flows into a bootstrap capacitor, and further wherein discharging the power generates a discharge current path based on a switching state of at least one switching device of the plurality of switching devices.

18. The system of Claim 1 , wherein each SIM of the plurality of SIMs is configured to exchange status information and control information through a shared communication pool.

19. A method for decentralized power management, the method comprising: producing, by each smart integrated module (SIM) of a plurality of SIMs arranged as a plurality of series-connected strings, voltage outputs while simultaneously splitting a current associated with each energy storage device of a plurality of energy storage devices, wherein each SIM of the plurality of SIMs includes the plurality of energy storage devices and a plurality of switching devices;providing access, via an AC interface, to an AC load, an AC source, or a combination thereof; and providing access, via a DC interface, to a DC load, a DC source, or a combination thereof.

20. One or more non-transitory computer-readable media storing processorexecutable instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: produce, by each smart integrated module (SIM) of a plurality of SIMs arranged as a plurality of series-connected strings, voltage outputs while simultaneously splitting a current associated with each energy storage device of a plurality of energy storage devices, wherein each SIM of the plurality of SIMs includes the plurality of energy storage devices and a plurality of switching devices; provide access, via an AC interface, to an AC load, an AC source, or a combination thereof; and provide access, via a DC interface, to a DC load, a DC source, or a combination thereof.

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