Hybrid Battery-Capacitor Power Delivery for Peak Load Smoothing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery-powered devices face challenges in achieving improved run-time while maintaining sufficient maximum power output, particularly with higher capacity batteries having lower power outputs, and there is a need for more efficient power delivery systems in devices that draw power from a mains power supply.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a capacitor with a power source and control circuitry that smoothes out power demand, allowing the use of larger capacity batteries or smaller power supply units by managing power delivery based on variable demand, including configurations that utilize the capacitor to supplement power during high demand periods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If a higher capacity battery is used to extend run-time, then the battery capacity is improved, but the maximum power output decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The power delivery system is segmented into two distinct energy storage components: a high-capacity battery for extended run-time and a capacitor for immediate high-power bursts. This segmentation allows each component to optimize its specific function without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges a high-capacity battery with a capacitor in a hybrid energy storage system. The battery provides sustained energy over time while the capacitor delivers instantaneous high power, combining the advantages of both energy storage technologies to simultaneously achieve extended run-time and high maximum power output.
2Duration of action of moving object
If a higher capacity battery is used to extend run-time, then the battery capacity is improved, but the device weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power system is divided into two components with distinct roles: the battery handles sustained low-power consumption over time, while the capacitor handles transient high-power demands. This segmentation allows the battery to be optimized for capacity without needing excessive size, as the capacitor supplements peak power requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the power delivery parameters by introducing a capacitor that can rapidly discharge and recharge, altering how power is supplied to the load. This enables the battery to operate at lower, more efficient current levels while maintaining the required peak power through capacitor supplementation, thereby reducing overall system weight.
3Volume of moving object
If a smaller power supply unit is used to reduce size and cost, then the PSU size is improved, but the power delivery capability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The capacitor is pre-charged during periods of low power demand or when the battery can provide sufficient power. This preliminary energy storage in the capacitor prepares the system to immediately deliver high power when needed, allowing a smaller PSU to suffice since the capacitor acts as a buffer that can supplement peak power demands without requiring the PSU to be oversized.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach extends the run-time of devices by using higher capacity batteries with lower power outputs and reduces the size and weight of power supply units, while ensuring sufficient power is delivered to the device components.
Implementation Method 1
a power source, a capacitor, a heater comprising a first heater track and a second heater track
Data Source
AI summary
A portable apparatus includes an electrical component that provides, in use, a variable power demand; energy storage; a power source; and control circuitry. The control circuitry is configurable between a first configuration in which the power source outputs power to the electrical component and to the energy storage via the electrical component; and a second configuration in which the power source outputs power to the electrical component and the energy storage outputs power to the electrical component.