Method for preparing and / or performing a simulation of an energy storage device or parts thereof by means of a hardware-in-the-loop simulator, measurement module, simulation module and hardware-in-the-loop simulator

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for preparing and / or performing a simulation of an energy storage device or parts thereof by means of a hardware-in-the-loop simulator. The present invention furthermore relates to a measurement module, a simulation module and a hardware-in-the-loop simulator.

Description

[0001] 23-072 1

[0002] Description

[0003] Title of the invention

[0004] Method for preparing and / or carrying out a simulation of an energy storage device or parts thereof using a hardware-in-the-loop simulator, measurement module, simulation module and hardware-in-the-loop simulator

[0005] field of technology

[0006] The present invention relates to a method for preparing and / or performing a simulation of an energy storage device or parts thereof using a hardware-in-the-loop simulator. The present invention also relates to a measurement module, a simulation module, and a hardware-in-the-loop simulator.

[0007] State of the art

[0008] A hardware-in-the-loop simulator (HIL simulator) is a test system used to test hardware in a simulated environment. The HIL approach is an important component in the development and validation of systems in fields such as the automotive industry, aerospace, robotics, and energy supply.

[0009] In this context, for example, the physical environment of a battery management system (BMS) can be simulated using a hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulator during its development. The HIL simulator generates signals and / or voltages that create environmental conditions for the BMS that closely approximate those found when the BMS is electrically connected to a battery it manages during real-world operation.

[0010] The basis for a hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation of a battery or its components is a predefined model of the battery or its components to be simulated. This model forms the basis of the HIL simulation and typically requires the definition of numerous physical system parameters of the system being simulated. However, HIL users often find it difficult to correctly dimension the required system parameters. While certain information about real batteries and their components can be obtained using testing systems and can theoretically be used for parameterizing the simulation model, this is not always straightforward.

[0011] In practice, however, such testing systems are often lacking. More importantly, the results obtained with conventional testing systems are frequently not directly usable for model parameterization within the HIL simulator. This is generally because the interfaces between the systems are not standardized, meaning that the results from one system cannot be used in the other, or only with considerable effort. This increases complexity and, at the same time, the susceptibility to errors. As a result, conducting HIL tests becomes more complex overall.

[0012] It is therefore desirable to make the simulation of batteries or parts thereof simpler and more reliable using HIL simulators. v2 23-072 2

[0013] Summary of the invention

[0014] It is therefore an object of the present invention to overcome the described disadvantages of the prior art and in particular to provide means by which the simulation of batteries or parts thereof using HIL simulators can be made simpler and more reliable.

[0015] The problem is solved by the invention according to a first aspect by proposing a method for preparing and / or carrying out a simulation of an energy storage device or parts thereof, which has at least one energy storage element, using a hardware-in-the-loop simulator.The procedure comprises: a) providing the hardware-in-the-loop simulator; b) connecting the energy storage element to the hardware-in-the-loop simulator; c) obtaining information about the energy storage element using the hardware-in-the-loop simulator; d) determining, based at least partially on the information obtained, values ​​of one or more parameters of a model of the energy storage element and parameterizing the model based on the determined values; and e) performing a simulation of the energy storage device or parts thereof using the hardware-in-the-loop simulator, incorporating the parameterized model.

[0016] The invention is based on the surprising finding that the parameterization of the model used for the simulation can be carried out particularly easily and reliably if the hardware-in-the-loop simulator is already used in the simulation preparation phase. This allows the data necessary for parameterization to be obtained directly in a format suitable for further processing. Furthermore, the data is then also directly available in the hardware-in-the-loop simulator, where it can be expediently processed. This eliminates, firstly, the difficulty of having to transfer and adapt data from external testing systems via interfaces that are either undocumented or only inadequately documented. Secondly, it enables a particularly high quality of the data underlying the parameterization, as adjustments are advantageously no longer necessary.This allows for particularly reliable parameterization of the model. This, in turn, can have a very positive impact on the results of simulations performed using the model.

[0017] The proposed method can thus significantly simplify and streamline the overall workflow required for preparing and conducting the simulation. This ultimately leads to further improvements in the simulation results.

[0018] The proposed method therefore makes it particularly advantageous to use a hardware-in-the-loop simulator for simulating energy storage devices or parts thereof. This allows battery management systems to be tested with exceptional reliability. The hardware-in-the-loop simulator enables the reliable and precise simulation of different states of the energy storage device monitored by the battery management system. This allows the simulator to replicate a wide variety of scenarios under which the battery management system is to be tested. These scenarios can include hazardous situations that would be problematic with real energy storage devices or would require special protective measures (such as excessive heating of the energy storage device). These scenarios can be simulated risk-free, allowing the battery management system 23-072 3 to be tested even under such conditions.This is also one reason why it is advantageous to test the battery management system using simulation of the energy storage device or parts thereof, even if the energy storage device or parts thereof (such as the energy storage element) actually exist. By testing the battery management system in a controlled environment, time and cost savings are possible. This allows the development and evaluation of battery management systems to be carried out more quickly and reliably.

[0019] For example, the energy storage device can have one or more energy storage elements. Additionally, the energy storage device can also have at least one control unit for controlling the one or more energy storage elements.

[0020] For example, the individual energy storage element can represent or contain a galvanic cell.

[0021] In step b), it is therefore expedient to connect the real-world energy storage element of the energy storage device to be simulated (or parts thereof) to the hardware-in-the-loop simulator. For example, only parts of the energy storage device can be simulated, such as the energy storage element connected to the hardware-in-the-loop simulator in step b). This is because the energy storage element is part of the energy storage device.

[0022] In embodiments, in step d) the values ​​of at least one parameter of the model can be determined at least partially, and in particular completely, using information other than that previously determined in step c). Preferably, however, the values ​​of all parameters are determined using the information obtained in step c).

[0023] The proposed method is therefore advantageously suited to preparing and / or performing a simulation of the energy storage device or parts thereof, such as the energy storage element connected to the hardware-in-the-loop simulator in step b), using the hardware-in-the-loop simulator. In embodiments, the simulation performed in step e) can be a simulation of the energy storage element connected to the hardware-in-the-loop simulator in step b) using the hardware-in-the-loop simulator and incorporating the parameterized model.

[0024] The proposed method is therefore also advantageously suited for the preparation and / or execution of HIL tests of a battery management system at the voltage level.

[0025] Alternatively or additionally, the hardware-in-the-loop simulator may also include a measurement module to which the energy storage element is connected in step b), in particular by establishing an electrically conductive connection between the energy storage element and the measurement module.

[0026] This also makes it particularly easy to retrofit an existing hardware-in-the-loop simulator in order to execute the proposed procedure.

[0027] The measurement module can, for example, have at least two electrical connections that are electrically connected to the poles of the energy storage element.

[0028] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that in step c) the information is determined at least partially using the surveying module.

[0029] For example, the survey module is designed to at least partially determine the information about the energy storage element. Conveniently, the survey module includes all the resources necessary to determine this information. 23-072 4

[0030] Optionally, the measurement module can also use at least some resources of the rest of the hardware-in-the-loop simulator and / or external resources to determine the information (for example, CPU resources that can be provided on a mainboard of the hardware-in-the-loop simulator and that the measurement module can access).

[0031] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that in step c) the determination of the information shows that a current flow between the measurement module and the energy storage element is at least partially set, in particular regulated, by means of a bidirectionally current-controlled source provided by the measurement module.

[0032] This allows charging and discharging processes of the energy storage element to be carried out. This is advantageous because it allows information about the energy storage element to be determined for one or more defined currents. For example, specific information about the energy storage element (especially regarding identical parameters of the energy storage element) can be determined for different charging and / or discharging currents. This allows current-dependent information about the energy storage element to be determined.

[0033] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that in step c) the determination of the information involves determining partial information about the energy storage element at several different temperatures, in particular ambient temperatures.

[0034] This allows temperature-dependent information about the energy storage element to be determined.

[0035] For example, partial information is determined at each of the several different temperatures, and the individual partial pieces of information then represent at least part of the determined information.

[0036] For example, at each of several different temperatures, similar partial pieces of information about the energy storage element can be determined (such as always the temperature-dependent value of a fixed quantity). This allows the determined information to represent a temperature dependence of one or more quantities of the energy storage element.

[0037] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that the information determined in step c) represents at least some properties, in particular values ​​of one or more quantities, of the energy storage element.

[0038] For example, the properties can be physical properties of the energy storage element. For example, the sizes can be physical quantities of the energy storage element.

[0039] Preferably, the values ​​of the individual parameters are determined at several temperatures (especially at each of the several different temperatures described above) (where, for example, each value can be understood as one of the partial pieces of information described above). This allows the behavior of the parameter as a function of temperature to be determined and / or evaluated. This data can then be advantageously used for parameterization.

[0040] Preferably, the values ​​of the individual parameters are determined at several different charging currents. This allows the behavior of the parameter as a function of the current to be determined and / or evaluated. This data can then be advantageously used for parameterization.

[0041] Preferably, the values ​​of the individual parameters are determined at several different discharge currents. This allows the behavior of the parameter as a function of the current to be determined and / or evaluated. This data can then be advantageously used for parameterization.

[0042] The combination of temperature dependence and charging and / or discharging current dependence is particularly interesting. This allows the behavior of the quantity to be determined and / or evaluated as a function of two or more than two, especially three, variables. This data can then be used advantageously for parameterization.

[0043] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that in step c) the determination of the information includes determining values ​​of one or more of the following quantities of the energy storage element, in particular at several different temperatures: at least one voltage, at least one current, and / or at least one temperature.

[0044] These are particularly advantageous parameters of the energy storage element, based on whose values ​​the parameterization of the model can be reliably carried out.

[0045] The voltage can be a voltage measured at the terminals of the energy storage element, especially when the current is set by the current-controlled source.

[0046] The current can be a measured current, especially in the case of a current set by the current-controlled source.

[0047] The temperature can be the temperature of the energy storage element itself. For example, this could be the ambient temperature of the energy storage element or the temperature at a specific location within the energy storage element. The temperature of the energy storage element can be changed, specifically increased or decreased, by an external temperature control unit. For instance, the energy storage element could be placed in a climate chamber equipped with such a temperature control unit. A temperature change can also occur over time simply by acquiring the information itself.

[0048] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that in step c) the determination of the information involves performing an electrical impedance spectroscopy and / or a standard capacitance measurement.

[0049] Advantageously, some or all of the aforementioned information, especially some or all of the values ​​of the quantities, can be determined in this way. This represents a simple and reliable method.

[0050] For example, the measurement module can be set up to perform the appropriate procedures (impedance spectroscopy and / or standard capacitance measurement).

[0051] In embodiments, the corresponding procedures (impedance spectroscopy and / or standard capacitance measurement) are carried out at each of the several different temperatures.

[0052] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that in step d) a predefined model of the energy storage element is parameterized and / or in a further step, preferably before step d), the model of the energy storage element is defined, wherein preferably the v2 23-072 6

[0053] Defining the model involves identifying and / or specifying one or more parameters of the model.

[0054] It is advisable to define the model before parameterizing the model.

[0055] Defining a model of a system, such as an energy storage element, involves, for example, parameter identification. Parameter identification specifically involves finding the parameters that can be used to describe the system in a model. Parameterizing the model then involves setting the values ​​for the parameters identified during parameter identification. For example, during parameter identification, an impedance might be identified as a parameter of the model, and during parameterization, this impedance can then be assigned at least one specific value (or, in the case of a dependent variable, multiple values, such as those derived from a function).

[0056] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that the parameters of the model are at least partially selected from: at least one open-circuit voltage, at least one resistance and / or at least one impedance, preferably at least two impedances.

[0057] Using such parameters, a particularly reliable model of the energy storage element can be advantageously defined. Preferably, two parameters are selected as impedances.

[0058] For example, at least one of the impedances, preferably two or more than two impedances, can each be represented by a parallel connection of a real resistor with a capacitance.

[0059] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that the model is stored within the hardware-in-the-loop simulator and / or on a separate computer, which is specifically connected to the hardware-in-the-loop simulator for data exchange, and is retrieved from there.

[0060] For example, the model is defined directly within the hardware-in-the-loop simulator. This makes the model quickly and reliably available within the simulator. The model can, for instance, be stored in the simulator's memory.

[0061] Alternatively or additionally, the model can also be stored on a separate computer. This separate computer can be a remote computer. In this case, the model can be advantageously accessed and made available for simulation via a data connection that links the separate computer and the hardware-in-the-loop simulator.

[0062] Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that at least one parameter of the model is temperature-dependent and that in step d) different values ​​for the parameter are determined for each of the several different temperatures.

[0063] This allows the temperature dependence to be incorporated particularly advantageously in the simulation.

[0064] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that the value(s) of at least one parameter of the model in step d) is / are determined using a function that depends on the information obtained. v2 23-072 7

[0065] For example, a function can be defined for at least one parameter of the model, taking one or more of the determined pieces of information as input and returning a value of the parameter as its output. For instance, the inputs can be temperature-dependent, and thus the values ​​returned by the functions can optionally also exhibit a temperature dependency. This temperature dependency conveniently refers to the temperature present during the determination of the information.

[0066] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that in step e) the performance of the simulation of the energy storage device or parts thereof includes simulating an output voltage of the energy storage device or parts thereof, in particular the energy storage element, including the parameterized model, and preferably the simulated output voltage is made available at at least one electrical connection, in particular at two electrical connections, of the hardware-in-the-loop simulator.

[0067] By enabling the simulation to provide an output voltage, a real environment can be imitated particularly easily and reliably for a battery management system under test.

[0068] Simulating the output voltage can involve generating the output voltage.

[0069] The output voltage is preferably an analog output voltage.

[0070] The simulated output voltage (especially of the energy storage device as a whole) can, for example, be between -6,000 V and +6,000 V. The simulated output voltage (especially of the individual energy storage element as part of the energy storage device) can, for example, also be between -10 V and +10 V, preferably between -6 V and +6 V.

[0071] The term “simulating an output voltage”, used in this application, is occasionally also referred to in other publications as “emulating an output voltage”.

[0072] Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that the hardware-in-the-loop simulator has at least one simulation module by means of which the simulation of the energy storage device or parts thereof is at least partially carried out using the parameterized model, wherein preferably the simulated output voltage is made available at at least one electrical connection, in particular at two electrical connections, of the simulation module.

[0073] This also makes it particularly easy to retrofit an existing hardware-in-the-loop simulator in order to execute the proposed procedure.

[0074] The simulation module can, for example, have at least two electrical connections that are electrically connected to two connections of the battery management system.

[0075] Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that the parameterized model is made available for the simulation by the simulation module, wherein the parameterized model is preferably stored in a computing unit, in particular designed as an FPGA, of the hardware-in-the-loop simulator, in particular of the simulation module, and / or a separate computer.

[0076] The model is advantageously represented by mathematical equations. For example, the simulation module includes an FPGA. The model can be stored and implemented within the FPGA. This enables reliable and fast simulation of the output voltage. v2 23-072 8

[0077] The simulation module conveniently includes all the resources necessary for simulating the output voltage. For example, analog circuitry can be used to generate and output voltages. Optionally, the simulation module can also utilize at least some resources from the rest of the hardware-in-the-loop simulator and / or external resources to generate the output voltage.

[0078] Alternatively or additionally, the procedure may also include the following further steps, in particular before step e): removing the energy storage element from the hardware-in-the-loop simulator, in particular from the measurement module, and / or connecting a battery management system to the hardware-in-the-loop simulator, in particular to the simulation module.

[0079] The removal of the energy storage element from the hardware-in-the-loop simulator, in particular from the measurement module, takes place, for example, after step c).

[0080] Connecting the battery management system to the hardware-in-the-loop simulator, in particular to the simulation module, takes place, for example, after step a).

[0081] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that in step e) the simulation of the energy storage device or parts thereof is carried out, simulations of several energy storage elements are carried out in parallel using the hardware-in-the-loop simulator, each including a parameterized model of the respective energy storage element, wherein preferably each of the parallel simulations includes a simulation of an output voltage of the respective energy storage element, and wherein in particular (i) each of the parallel simulations is carried out using its own simulation module and / or (ii) the individual simulated output voltages are connected to at least one electrical connection, in particular to two electrical connections, of the hardware-in-the-loop simulator, in particular of the respective simulation module.be made available for sampling and / or the individual simulated output voltages are added to a total voltage and the total voltage is made available for sampling at at least one electrical connection, in particular at two electrical connections, of the hardware-in-the-loop simulator.

[0082] Simulating multiple energy storage elements in parallel advantageously allows for the simulation of an output voltage of an energy storage device composed of multiple energy storage elements.

[0083] Preferably, each of the models is provided with its own simulation module and / or each of the simulations is performed with its own simulation module.

[0084] It can be advantageous for the hardware-in-the-loop simulator to have a corresponding number of simulation modules. For example, each simulation module can then simulate a model of one of the energy storage elements, and each simulation module provides the output voltages simulated for the respective energy storage element.

[0085] For example, the connections of the individual simulation modules can be interconnected in such a way that the output voltages of the simulation modules are added together. The added output voltages then advantageously represent a total voltage that can be tapped, for example, between two connections of different simulation modules. The connections of the total voltage can be connected to the battery management system. v2 23-072 9

[0086] For example, the individual models can all be identical with respect to their parameters, but the parameterization can differ, at least partially. This makes it particularly easy to obtain a model for the energy storage device, which is composed of several identical energy storage elements (which may statistically vary from one another with respect to, for example, their physical properties). In some embodiments, however, it may also be advantageous to use identical models for some or all of the parallel simulations. This can reduce the preparation effort.

[0087] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that, in particular based on the energy storage element model parameterized in step d), a plurality of models with different parameterizations are obtained and these models are used in the individual of the parallel simulations, whereby the values ​​of at least one parameter satisfy a normal distribution across all models.

[0088] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that the energy storage element is or has a galvanic cell and / or the energy storage device is or has a rechargeable battery.

[0089] This is particularly advantageous for use in connection with testing battery management systems.

[0090] The problem is solved by the invention according to a second aspect by proposing a measurement module for a hardware-in-the-loop simulator, wherein the measurement module is configured to obtain information about an energy storage element connected to the measurement module, in particular by the measurement module at least partially performing electrical impedance spectroscopy and / or a standard capacitance measurement.

[0091] Using such a measurement module, data can be determined particularly easily and reliably, which can advantageously form a basis for parameterizing a model of the investigated energy storage element.

[0092] The surveying module enables a particularly simple yet reliable provision of the resources necessary for determining the information.

[0093] Furthermore, an existing hardware-in-the-loop simulator can be easily and reliably retrofitted with a suitable measurement module, thus providing the resources necessary for data acquisition. This is particularly attractive from an economic perspective.

[0094] The features described in relation to the method according to the first aspect of the invention, specifically step c) thereof, and in particular the measurement module described therein, may also be provided accordingly in the measurement module according to the second aspect of the invention, individually and in any combination, unless otherwise indicated by the context. Conversely, the measurement module described in relation to the method according to the first aspect of the invention may have all the features described herein, individually and in any combination, unless otherwise indicated by the context.

[0095] In particular, the information obtained or obtainable with the measurement module can be such information as described in more detail in connection with the method according to the first aspect of the invention. v2 23-072 10

[0096] The measurement module can be implemented, for example, in software, in hardware, or as a combination of both. The measurement module can be or include a data processing device. Alternatively or additionally, the measurement module can include a memory, a processor, a receiver, a transmitter, or any combination thereof. Alternatively or additionally, the measurement module can provide all necessary resources, for example, in the form of software and / or hardware resources, in particular the necessary measurement technology (for example, for performing electrical impedance spectroscopy and / or standard capacitance measurement), in whole or in part, and / or make them available, in whole or in part, and / or include them, in whole or in part. The measurement module can also advantageously utilize resources of the hardware-in-the-loop simulator if the measurement module is connected to the hardware-in-the-loop simulator.The measurement module advantageously has interfaces for connecting the energy storage element. These interfaces can, for example, have one or more voltage connections that can be electrically connected to the energy storage element (especially to its poles).

[0097] Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that the measurement module is designed as a slide-in module for insertion into the hardware-in-the-loop simulator.

[0098] This makes the measurement module particularly easy and reliable to connect to the hardware-in-the-loop simulator and thus usable within the hardware-in-the-loop simulator.

[0099] The module can, for example, consist of a housing and a circuit board. The resources necessary for retrieving the information can be arranged on the circuit board.

[0100] The problem is solved by the invention according to a third aspect by proposing a simulation module for a hardware-in-the-loop simulator, wherein the simulation module is configured to perform at least a partial simulation of an energy storage element, preferably including a parameterized model of the energy storage element, wherein the model is preferably parameterized and / or parameterizable based on information obtained or obtainable by means of a measurement module according to the second aspect of the invention, and wherein a simulated output voltage of the energy storage element is preferably made available at at least one electrical connection, in particular at two electrical connections, of the simulation module.

[0101] Using such a simulation module, the simulation of the energy storage element can be carried out particularly easily and reliably. This element can, for example, be part of an energy storage device. The energy storage device can, for instance, contain multiple energy storage elements. This allows for a simple and reliable simulation of the energy storage device or parts thereof.

[0102] The simulation module enables a particularly simple yet reliable provision of the resources required for the simulation.

[0103] Furthermore, an existing hardware-in-the-loop simulator can be easily and reliably retrofitted with a suitable simulation module, thus providing it with the resources necessary for simulation. This is particularly attractive from an economic perspective.

[0104] The features described in relation to the method according to the first aspect of the invention with regard to step e) and especially with regard to the simulation module described therein, can also be provided accordingly in the simulation module according to the third aspect of the invention, individually and in any combination, provided that v2 23-072 11

[0105] Unless the context indicates otherwise. Conversely, the simulation module described in relation to the method according to the first aspect of the invention can have all the features described herein, individually and in any combination, unless the context indicates otherwise.

[0106] In particular, the results simulated with the simulation module, and especially the simulated output voltage, can each be such as those described in more detail in connection with the method according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0107] It is particularly advantageous if the simulation module simulates a single energy storage element (which may be part of an energy storage device). In a hardware-in-the-loop simulator, for example, multiple simulation modules can be provided to simulate several energy storage elements in parallel (a point that will be discussed in more detail later). In some embodiments, the parallel simulation of multiple energy storage elements can represent a simulation of an energy storage device that incorporates several energy storage elements.

[0108] The simulation module can be implemented, for example, in software, in hardware, or as a combination of both. The simulation module can be or include a data processing device. Alternatively or additionally, the simulation module can include memory, a processor, a receiver, a transmitter, or any combination thereof. Alternatively or additionally, the simulation module can provide all necessary resources, for example, in the form of software and / or hardware resources, in particular the necessary simulation technology, in whole or in part, and / or make them available in whole or in part, and / or include them in whole or in part. The simulation module can also advantageously utilize resources of the hardware-in-the-loop simulator if the simulation module is connected to the hardware-in-the-loop simulator.The simulation module advantageously features interfaces for connecting a system under test, such as a battery management system. These interfaces can, for example, include one or more voltage connections that can be electrically connected to the system under test and subjected to the simulated voltage. Alternatively or additionally, the interfaces can also include one or more data connections that can be connected to the system under test for data exchange between the simulation module and the system under test.

[0109] Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that the parameterized model is stored in a computing unit, in particular designed as an FPGA, of the simulation module.

[0110] For example, the computing unit can be or include an FPGA. The parameterizable and / or parameterized model can then be stored within the computing unit, specifically within the FPGA. Optionally, multiple models can be stored there. For example, the individual models can simulate different types of energy storage elements. This allows for quick switching between the individual models for simulations of different scenarios.

[0111] The simulation module conveniently includes all the resources necessary for simulating the output voltage. For example, analog circuitry integrated into the simulation module can be used to generate and output voltages. Optionally, the simulation module can also utilize at least some resources from the rest of the hardware-in-the-loop simulator and / or external resources to generate the output voltage.

[0112] Alternatively or additionally, the simulation module can also be designed as an insert for insertion into a hardware-in-the-loop simulator. v2 23-072 12

[0113] This makes the simulation module particularly easy and reliable to connect to the hardware-in-the-loop simulator and thus usable within the hardware-in-the-loop simulator.

[0114] The module can, for example, consist of a housing and a circuit board. The resources necessary for the simulation can be arranged on the circuit board.

[0115] The problem is solved by the invention according to a fourth aspect in that a hardware-in-the-loop simulator, in particular for preparing and / or performing HIL tests of a battery management system at the voltage level, comprising

[0116] - at least one measurement module, in particular according to the second aspect of the invention, for determining information about an energy storage element connected or connectable to the measurement module for at least partial parameterization of a model of the energy storage element; and

[0117] - at least one simulation module, in particular according to the third aspect of the invention, is proposed for at least partially performing a simulation of an energy storage element, including a parameterized model of the energy storage element, in particular based on the information obtained by means of the measurement module, to provide a simulated output voltage of the energy storage element.

[0118] The measurement module can be detached and arranged on the hardware-in-the-loop simulator.

[0119] In particular, given a certain solvability of the measurement module, it is advantageous to be able to use different measurement modules with different functionalities interchangeably within the hardware-in-the-loop simulator. This can reduce the complexity of each individual measurement module and thus provide an efficient way to obtain the required information. For example, different measurement techniques can be implemented on each measurement module. Then, at least partially different information and / or at least partially the same information can be obtained from the different measurement modules in different ways.

[0120] Therefore, the hardware-in-the-loop simulator can also be advantageously equipped with different measurement modules on an alternating basis.

[0121] The simulation module can be solvably arranged on the hardware-in-the-loop simulator.

[0122] In particular, given a certain solvability of the simulation module, it is advantageous to be able to use different simulation modules with different functionalities interchangeably within the hardware-in-the-loop simulator. This can reduce the complexity of each individual simulation module and thus provide an efficient way to perform the simulation. For example, different voltage ranges of the simulated output voltage can be covered by the individual simulation modules. Then, at least partially different voltage ranges can be simulated with the different simulation modules. For example, a first simulation module could cover relatively low voltage ranges (e.g., between 1 V and 10 V), and a second simulation module could cover relatively high voltage ranges (e.g., between 500 V and 5,000 V). v2 23-072 13

[0123] Therefore, the hardware-in-the-loop simulator can advantageously be equipped with different simulation modules, each covering different output voltage ranges. Alternatively or additionally, the hardware-in-the-loop simulator can also be advantageously equipped with multiple simulation modules simultaneously.

[0124] All the advantages described with regard to the method according to the first aspect of the invention, the measurement module according to the second aspect of the invention, and the simulation module according to the third aspect of the invention also apply accordingly to the hardware-in-the-loop simulator according to the fourth aspect of the invention. Therefore, reference can be made to the preceding explanations in this respect.

[0125] The features described in relation to the method according to the first aspect of the invention, the measurement module according to the second aspect of the invention, and the simulation module according to the third aspect of the invention can also be provided accordingly in the hardware-in-the-loop simulator, individually and in any combination, unless otherwise indicated by the context. Conversely, the features of the individual modules described here can also be provided in the respective modules individually and in any combination, according to the second and third aspects of the invention, unless otherwise indicated by the context.

[0126] In particular, the physical and functional configurations of the individual parts described in connection with the method according to the first aspect of the invention, as well as the described structural and functional relationships between the individual parts, can also be provided accordingly in the hardware-in-the-loop simulator, individually and in any combination, unless the context indicates otherwise.

[0127] Preferably, the hardware-in-the-loop simulator is configured to perform the method according to the first aspect of the invention. Advantageously, the measurement module and the simulation module, as well as the resources and functionalities provided by them, can be included.

[0128] Preferably, the energy storage element can be connected to the hardware-in-the-loop simulator, in particular to the measurement module. Preferably, the battery management system can be connected to the hardware-in-the-loop simulator, in particular to the simulation mode.

[0129] The hardware-in-the-loop simulator can be implemented, for example, in software, in hardware, or as a combination of both. The hardware-in-the-loop simulator advantageously has a receptacle for inserting the measurement module, which is particularly well-designed as a slide-in module. The hardware-in-the-loop simulator advantageously has a receptacle for inserting the simulation module, which is particularly well-designed as a slide-in module.

[0130] The hardware-in-the-loop simulator can be advantageously used to prepare and / or perform a simulation of an energy storage device or parts thereof that includes at least one energy storage element.

[0131] Alternatively or additionally, the hardware-in-the-loop simulator may also be provided for and / or be equipped with multiple simulation modules, and each simulation module may be designed and / or configured to at least partially perform a simulation of an energy storage element, incorporating a model of the respective energy storage element to provide a simulated output voltage of the respective energy storage element. v2 23-072 14

[0132] Each of these simulation modules can be structured as described above.

[0133] Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that each simulation module has at least two electrical connections from which the respective simulated output voltage can be tapped and wherein preferably the connections of the plurality of simulation modules can be connected in series in such a way that the simulated output voltages of the individual simulation modules add up to a total voltage, wherein preferably the total voltage can be made available to a consumer, in particular the battery management system, via at least two electrical connections of the hardware-in-the-loop simulator, wherein preferably the total voltage represents a simulated output voltage of an energy storage device comprising several energy storage elements.

[0134] The multiple simulation modules allow for the simulation of individual energy storage elements. This makes it advantageous to simulate the overall output voltage of an energy storage device comprised of several energy storage elements. To obtain the total voltage, the output voltages of the individual simulation modules are conveniently added together.

[0135] Brief description of the drawings

[0136] Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which preferred embodiments of the invention are explained with reference to schematic drawings.

[0137] This shows:

[0138] Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of a hardware-in-the-loop simulator according to the fourth aspect of the invention;

[0139] Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of a defined model of a

[0140] Energy storage element;

[0141] Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of a measurement module of the hardware-in-the-loop

[0142] Simulators with an attached energy storage element;

[0143] Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of a simulation module of the hardware-in-the-loop

[0144] Simulators with an attached battery management system;

[0145] Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of a surveying module according to the second aspect of the invention;

[0146] Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of a simulation module according to the third aspect of the invention; and

[0147] Fig. 7 shows a flowchart of a method according to the first aspect of the invention.

[0148] Description of the embodiments

[0149] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a hardware-in-the-loop simulator 1 according to the fourth aspect of the invention. Reference will be made to Fig. 1 frequently in the following. The hardware-in-the-loop simulator 1 is used to prepare and / or perform HIL tests of battery management systems at the voltage level. v2 23-072 15

[0150] Battery management systems are known to manage energy storage devices (such as accumulators), which in turn are typically composed of one or more energy storage elements (such as galvanic cells).

[0151] The hardware-in-the-loop simulator 1 can simulate an energy storage device or parts thereof, such as an energy storage element 3 incorporated by the energy storage device, and generate an output voltage that can be supplied to a battery management system 5 under test. This allows the battery management system 5 to be tested under various scenarios replicated by the simulation. A parameterized model 7 of the energy storage device or parts thereof to be simulated is used in the simulation.

[0152] For example, the energy storage device to be simulated may consist solely of the single energy storage element 3. In this case, a simulation of the energy storage device can expediently be performed by simulating the single energy storage element 3. For the model 7 of the energy storage element 3 used for the simulation, suitable parameters that can model the behavior of the energy storage element 3 must first be identified. Subsequently, the model 7 defined in this way must be parameterized, i.e., values ​​must be assigned to the identified parameters.

[0153] Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of a previously defined model 7 for the energy storage element 3. In this model 7, the energy storage element 3 is described by parameters in the form of a voltage from a voltage source 9, a real resistance 11, a first impedance 13, and a second impedance 15. Although an analog circuit is used to represent model 7 in Fig. 2, the actual representation of model 7 can be carried out in other ways, well known to those skilled in the art. For example, model 7 can be represented by mathematical equations. To perform the parameterization of model 7, information about the real energy storage element 3, which will later be simulated, is first required.

[0154] To obtain information about the energy storage element 3, which is considered part of the energy storage device to be simulated, the energy storage element 3 can be electrically connected to a measurement module 17 of the hardware-in-the-loop simulator 1, as illustrated in Fig. 1.

[0155] Fig. 3 shows a more detailed schematic representation of the measurement module 17 with the energy storage element 3 connected to it. For example, the two poles of the energy storage element 3 can be electrically connected to two terminals (labeled “+” and “ in Fig. 3) of the measurement module 17.

[0156] The measurement module 17 has a bidirectionally current-controlled source 19. This source allows the current flow between the measurement module 17 and the energy storage element 3 to be set. In this way, a defined charging or discharging current can be advantageously set. Alternatively or additionally, the measurement module 17 can also have other or further measurement technology. For example, the measurement module 17 can have measurement technology to perform electrical impedance spectroscopy and / or a standard capacitance measurement on the energy storage element. Furthermore, the measurement module 17 can have additional resources, such as an operational amplifier 21.

[0157] In this way, information about the energy storage element 3 can be determined. For example, this could be a voltage that is connected to a device provided on the measurement module 17 (v2 23-072 16).

[0158] The voltage can be measured with a voltmeter 23, and the current can be measured with a current meter 25 provided on the measurement module. The voltage and current can be measured at several different charging and / or discharging currents set by means of the current-controlled source 19. Alternatively or additionally, the voltage and current can also be measured at several different temperatures of the energy storage element 3. The respective temperature can also be part of the information determined about the energy storage element 3.

[0159] Based on the information gathered, the parameters of model 7, namely the voltage, resistance, and impedance values ​​of parameters 9, 11, 13, and 15, can be determined. For example, these parameters 9, 11, 13, and 15 can each be a function of the measured voltage, current, temperature, and / or current setting. Using the values ​​of parameters 9, 11, 13, and 15 determined in this way, model 7 can be parameterized.

[0160] The parameterized model 7 can, for example, be stored in the hardware-in-the-loop simulator 1, as illustrated in Fig. 1. For this purpose, the model 7 can be stored in memory or an FPGA of the hardware-in-the-loop simulator 1. Alternatively, the parameterized model 7 could also be stored on a separate computer, and the hardware-in-the-loop simulator 1 could be connected to this computer for data exchange.

[0161] With the appropriately parameterized model 7, a simulation of the energy storage device can be carried out by simulating the energy storage element 3 as (in this case) its only part.

[0162] For this purpose, the hardware-in-the-loop simulator 1 has a simulation module 27 to which the battery management system 5 to be tested can be electrically connected, as illustrated in Fig. 1.

[0163] Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of the simulation module 27 with the battery management system 5 connected to it. For example, two connections of the battery management system 5 can be connected with two terminals (in Fig. 4 as “+” and (marked) of the simulation module 27 are electrically connected.

[0164] The simulation module 27 has access to the parameterized model 7 and can therefore make it available for the simulation of the energy storage device (or the energy storage element 3 as part thereof). For better understanding, model 7 is also shown as part of the simulation module 27 in Fig. 4.

[0165] By performing the simulation, an output voltage of the energy storage element 3 can be simulated and made available at the terminals ("+" and "-") of the simulation module 27, in particular the battery management system 5. The battery management system 5 is therefore also shown in Fig. 4 as having a load 29 to which the voltage is supplied. The simulated output voltage of the energy storage element 3 then corresponds to the simulated output voltage of the energy storage device being simulated.

[0166] The representation in Fig. 4 is highly schematic. In particular, the simulation module 27 may include further resources that are required, for example, for the simulation. In this respect, the simulation module 27 may include analog circuitry necessary for generating the analog output voltage.

[0167] In the previous description of Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulator 1, it was assumed that the energy storage device to be simulated had only the single energy storage element 3. v2 23-072 17

[0168] However, in certain embodiments, the hardware-in-the-loop simulator 1 can also be used to simulate an energy storage device with multiple energy storage elements. For example, an energy storage device can be composed of N energy storage elements.

[0169] The hardware-in-the-loop simulator 1 can then have N simulation modules. Each simulation module provides a simulated output voltage accessible at its two terminals. By connecting the terminals of the N simulation modules in series, the N individual output voltages can be added together to obtain a total voltage. This total voltage can be tapped, for example, between the first terminal (e.g., "+") of the first simulation module and the second terminal (e.g., "-") of the Nth simulation module. The total voltage then corresponds to a simulated output voltage of the energy storage device with N energy storage elements being simulated.

[0170] The individual models of the N energy storage elements can have identical parameters. The N models can be obtained starting from an initial model, which is defined and parameterized as described above. For this purpose, N models can be parameterized, whereby the values ​​of at least one parameter across all models must follow a normal distribution. In this way, all N models can be parameterized particularly easily based on the information obtained from a (single) real energy storage element. For example, model 7 of energy storage element 3 can be used as the initial model, and from this, a total of N models (especially with identical parameters) can be parameterized differently. The initial model can optionally be one of the N models.

[0171] In some embodiments, it is also conceivable that a model of the entire energy storage device is defined and parameterized, for example, based on the information obtained for the energy storage element 3. This model can be simulated with a single simulation module (for example, simulation module 27). This allows the output voltage of the energy storage device to be simulated with just a single simulation module.

[0172] Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of a measurement module 31 according to the second aspect of the invention. The measurement module 31 can, for example, be identical to the measurement module 17 described with reference to Figs. 1 and 3.

[0173] Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of a simulation module 33 according to the third aspect of the invention. The simulation module 33 can, for example, be identical to the simulation module 27 described with reference to Figs. 1 and 4.

[0174] Fig. 7 shows a flowchart 100 of a method according to the first aspect of the invention. The method serves to prepare and / or carry out a simulation of an energy storage device or parts thereof, which has at least one energy storage element, using a hardware-in-the-loop simulator.

[0175] For example, the hardware-in-the-loop simulator 1 described with reference to Fig. 1 can be configured to execute such a procedure. Accordingly, the energy storage device to be simulated can be precisely the energy storage device that is constructed from the energy storage element 3.

[0176] In step 101, the hardware-in-the-loop simulator (such as the hardware-in-the-loop simulator 1) is provided.

[0177] In step 103, the energy storage element (e.g., energy storage element 3) is connected to the hardware-in-the-loop simulator. v2 23-072 18

[0178] In step 105, information about the energy storage element is determined using the hardware-in-the-loop simulator.

[0179] In step 107, based at least partially on the information obtained, values ​​of one or more parameters of a model (such as model 7) of the energy storage element are determined and, based on the determined values, the model is parameterized.

[0180] In step 109, a simulation of the energy storage device or parts thereof is performed using the hardware-in-the-loop simulator, incorporating the parameterized model.

[0181] The features disclosed in the preceding description, the drawings, and the claims can be essential to the invention in its various embodiments, both individually and in any combination. v2 23-072

[0182] Reference symbol list

[0183] 1 hardware-in-the-loop simulator

[0184] 3 Energy storage element

[0185] 5 Battery Management System

[0186] 7 Model of the energy storage element

[0187] 9 parameters of the model (tension)

[0188] 11 parameters of the model (resistance)

[0189] 13 parameters of the model (first impedance)

[0190] 15 parameters of the model (second impedance)

[0191] 17 Surveying module

[0192] 19 Bidirectional current-controlled source

[0193] 21 operational amplifiers

[0194] 23 Voltage measuring device

[0195] 25 current meter

[0196] TI Simulation Module

[0197] 29 Last

[0198] 31 Surveying module

[0199] 33 Simulation module

[0200] 100 Flowchart

[0201] 101 Deploying a Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulator

[0202] 103 Connecting an energy storage element to the hardware-in-the-loop simulator

[0203] 105 Obtaining information about the energy storage element

[0204] 107 Parameterizing a model of the energy storage element

[0205] 109 Performing a simulation of the energy storage element N Number of simulation modules

[0206] Electrical connection

[0207] Electrical connection

Claims

23-072 20 Patent claims 1. Method for preparing and / or performing a simulation of an energy storage device or parts thereof, comprising at least one energy storage element (3), using a hardware-in-the-loop simulator (1), comprising: a) providing (101) the hardware-in-the-loop simulator; b) connecting (103) the energy storage element (3) to the hardware-in-the-loop simulator (1); c) determining (105) information about the energy storage element (3) using the hardware-in-the-loop simulator (1); d) determining, based at least partially on the determined information, values ​​of one or more parameters (9, 11, 13, 15) of a model (7) of the energy storage element (3) and parameterizing (107) the model (7) based on the determined values; and e) Performing (109) a simulation of the energy storage device or parts thereof using the hardware-in-the-loop simulator (1) incorporating the parameterized model (7).

2. Method according to claim 1, wherein the hardware-in-the-loop simulator (1) has a measurement module (17) to which the energy storage element (3) is connected in step b), in particular by establishing an electrically conductive connection between the energy storage element (3) and the measurement module (17), wherein preferably in step c) the information is determined at least partially by means of the measurement module (17).

3. Method according to claim 2, wherein in step c) the determination of the information comprises that a current flow between the measurement module (17) and the energy storage element (3) is at least partially set, in particular controlled, by means of a bidirectionally current-controlled source provided by the measurement module (17).

4. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein step c) comprises determining the information, to determine partial information about the energy storage element (3) at several different temperatures, in particular ambient temperatures.

5. A method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the information determined in step c) represents at least partially properties, in particular values ​​of one or more quantities, of the energy storage element (3), wherein preferably in step c) the determination of the information comprises determining values ​​of one or more of the following quantities of the energy storage element (3), in particular at several different temperatures: at least one voltage, at least one current, and / or v2 23-072 21 at least one temperature.

6. Method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein in step c) the determination of the information comprises performing an electrical impedance spectroscopy and / or a standard capacitance measurement.

7. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein in step d) a predefined model (7) of the energy storage element (3) is parameterized and / or in a further step, preferably before step d), the model (7) of the energy storage element (3) is defined, wherein preferably defining the model (7) comprises identifying and / or specifying one or more parameters of the model.

8. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein in step e) performing the simulation of the energy storage device or parts thereof comprises simulating an output voltage of the energy storage device or parts thereof, in particular of the energy storage element (3), including the parameterized model (7), and preferably the simulated output voltage is made available at at least one electrical connection, in particular at two electrical connections, of the hardware-in-the-loop simulator (1).

9. A method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the hardware-in-the-loop simulator (1) comprises at least one simulation module by means of which the simulation of the energy storage device or parts thereof is at least partially carried out, including the parameterized model (7), wherein preferably the simulated output voltage is made available at at least one electrical connection, in particular at two electrical connections, of the simulation module, wherein preferably the parameterized model (7) is made available for the simulation by the simulation module, wherein preferably the parameterized model (7) is stored in a computing unit, in particular designed as an FPGA, of the hardware-in-the-loop simulator (1), in particular of the simulation module, and / or of a separate computer.

10. A method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein step e) comprises performing the simulation of the energy storage device or parts thereof, performing simulations of several energy storage elements in parallel using the hardware-in-the-loop simulator (1), each including a parameterized model (7) of the respective energy storage element, wherein preferably each of the parallel simulations includes a simulation of an output voltage of the respective energy storage element, and wherein in particular (i) each of the parallel simulations is performed using its own simulation module and / or (ii) the individual simulated output voltages are connected to at least one electrical connection, in particular to two electrical connections, of the hardware-in-the-loop simulator (1), in particular of the respective simulation module.are made available for sampling and / or the individual simulated output voltages are added to a total voltage and the total voltage is made available for sampling at at least one electrical connection, in particular at two electrical connections, of the hardware-in-the-loop simulator (1).

11. Measurement module (17) for a hardware-in-the-loop simulator (1), wherein the measurement module (17) is configured to obtain information about an energy storage element (3) connected to the measurement module (17), in particular by the measurement module (17) performing electrical impedance spectroscopy and / or a standard- 23-072 22 Capacity measurement is performed at least partially, wherein the measurement module (17) is preferably designed as a plug-in module for insertion into the hardware-in-the-loop simulator (1).

12. Simulation module (27) for a hardware-in-the-loop simulator (1), wherein the simulation module (27) is configured to perform at least a partial simulation of an energy storage element (3), preferably including a parameterized model (7) of the energy storage element (3), wherein the model (7) is preferably parameterized and / or parameterizable based on information obtained or obtainable by means of a measurement module according to claim 11, and preferably provides a simulated output voltage of the energy storage element (3) accessible at at least one electrical connection, in particular at two electrical connections, of the simulation module (27), wherein the simulation module (27) is preferably designed as a plug-in module for insertion into a hardware-in-the-loop simulator (1).

13. Hardware-in-the-loop simulator (1), in particular for preparing and / or performing HIL tests of a battery management system at the voltage level, comprising - at least one measurement module (17), in particular according to claim 11, for determining information about an energy storage element (3) connected or connectable to the measurement module (17) for at least partial parameterization of a model (7) of the energy storage element (3); and - at least one simulation module (27), in particular according to claim 12, for at least partially performing a simulation of an energy storage element (3) including a parameterized model (7) of the energy storage element (3), in particular based on the information obtained by means of the measurement module (17), to provide a simulated output voltage of the energy storage element (3); wherein preferably (i) the hardware-in-the-loop simulator (1) has and / or can be equipped with a plurality of simulation modules, and each simulation module serves and / or is configured to at least partially perform a simulation of an energy storage element (3) including a model (7) of the respective energy storage element (3) to provide a simulated output voltage of the respective energy storage element (3), and / or (ii) each simulation module has at least two electrical connections,where the respective simulated output voltage can be tapped and provided, and wherein preferably the connections of the plurality of simulation modules can be connected in series such that the simulated output voltages of the individual simulation modules add up to a total voltage, wherein preferably the total voltage can be provided to a consumer, in particular the battery management system, via at least two electrical connections of the hardware-in-the-loop simulator (1), wherein preferably the total voltage represents a simulated output voltage of an energy storage device comprising several energy storage elements.

Images