Storage Battery Control Apparatus for Dual Power Source Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems that connect power generation and storage systems to a master power line face increased costs when a storage battery is installed later, as they require a control apparatus to manage power from both sources efficiently, and there is a need to switch power sources based on economic and usage patterns.

Innovation Solution

A storage battery control apparatus that includes a power conversion unit, a switch, and a switch control unit to alternate between using power from the electric power system and the power generation system, ensuring efficient charging by connecting different current detectors at specific times to manage reverse power flow and optimize power usage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a control apparatus for integrally controlling the power generation system and the power storage system is provided, then the system can charge the storage battery using power from both the electric power system and the power generation system, but the costs of building the system will increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging capabilityVSAvoidsystem cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system is divided into independent control units: the power generation system retains its original control apparatus, while the power storage system has its own separate control apparatus. These segmented controls communicate through standardized signals to achieve coordinated operation without requiring a single complex integrated controller, thereby reducing overall system cost while maintaining dual-charging capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The power storage control apparatus is designed with multi-functionality to handle both grid charging and generator charging operations. It can interpret control signals from either power source and manage battery charging accordingly, eliminating the need for separate specialized controllers for each power source and reducing overall device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the control apparatus for integrally controlling the power generation system and the power storage system is provided at a later time, then the system can be upgraded to support dual charging, but the system building costs will increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedual charging functionVSAvoidsystem installation cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The power storage control apparatus is designed with pre-configured communication interfaces and control logic that are compatible with both grid and generator power sources from the outset. This preliminary design allows the system to be upgraded to dual-charging capability without requiring additional control hardware or complex retrofiting work, thereby reducing installation costs while achieving the desired adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If current detectors are used to detect reverse power flow, then the power generation system can adjust power output to prevent reverse flow, but the system requires additional detection equipment and control complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereverse power flow controlVSAvoiddetection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The reverse power flow detection function is merged into the existing power storage control apparatus. The current detector is integrated with the control unit, allowing it to simultaneously perform both reverse power flow detection and battery charging control functions. This integration eliminates the need for separate detection and control devices, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable reverse power flow prevention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

Enables cost-effective charging of storage batteries using power from both the electric and power generation systems, allowing for efficient switching based on economic conditions and usage patterns, thus reducing overall system costs and enhancing flexibility.

Implementation Method 1

a power conversion unit 11 having a function of converting AC power input via the second power line into DC power and supplying the DC power to the storage battery

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAC to DC conversion:

Implementation Method 2

and a function of converting DC power from the storage battery into AC power and supplying the AC power via the second power line

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDC to AC conversion:

Data Source

PatentUS10135282B2Storage battery control apparatus, power storage system, and method for charging storage battery
Publication Date: 2018.11.20 OMRON CORP
  • US10135282B2 patent drawing
  • US10135282B2 patent drawing
  • US10135282B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A storage battery control apparatus is provided with which a system capable of charging a storage battery using power from an electric power system and also charging the storage battery using power from a power generation system is inexpensively built. A storage battery control apparatus includes a switching control unit and a switch for connecting a CT to a current sensor connecting portion in a power generation system during a period during which a storage battery is charged using power from an electric power system, and for connecting a CT to the current sensor connecting portion during a period during which the storage battery is charged using power from the power generation system.