Battery Cell Reserve Energy Access Through Emergency Overdischarge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft are limited by the energy density of rechargeable battery cells, which restricts their operational range and emergency capabilities, as they cannot access the full energy capacity without damaging the batteries.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilize unrecoverable energy in battery cells by detecting battery data with sensors and a controller, allowing the use of excess material as a reserve energy source through overdischarging, effectively doubling the battery capacity in emergency scenarios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the battery cell is designed with excess electrode material to increase energy capacity, then the energy density and operational range are improved, but the battery cannot be recharged after depleting the full energy capacity without causing permanent damage
Solution Approach 1:
The battery energy capacity is segmented into two distinct portions: a rechargeable energy portion and an unrecoverable energy portion. The unrecoverable portion contains excess electrode material that provides additional energy but cannot be recharged. This segmentation allows the battery to access full energy capacity while protecting the rechargeable portion from damage during emergency overdischarge events.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery is designed with excessive electrode material beyond what is needed for safe rechargeable operation. This excessive material forms the unrecoverable energy portion that can be accessed in emergencies. The system intentionally allows partial depletion of this excessive portion without damage, while preventing depletion beyond the safe threshold.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the battery is designed to allow access to full energy capacity in emergency situations, then the operational range and emergency capabilities are improved, but the battery cells may be permanently damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The battery incorporates a unrecoverable energy portion that acts as a cushion or buffer between the safe operating range and the point of permanent damage. This unrecoverable portion can be depleted during emergencies without harming the rechargeable portion, providing a safety margin that allows extended operational range while protecting battery integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts what would normally be wasted excess electrode material into a useful emergency energy reserve. The unrecoverable energy portion, which cannot be recharged under normal circumstances, becomes a beneficial emergency resource that extends operational range without compromising the safety of the rechargeable portion.
3Adaptability or versatility
If sensors and controllers are added to manage unrecoverable energy, then the ability to safely access additional energy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is designed to perform multiple functions: it monitors battery state of charge, determines when unrecoverable energy should be accessed, controls the discharge of unrecoverable energy, and prevents damage to the rechargeable portion. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each control task, thereby limiting the increase in system complexity.
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 eVTOL aircraft to access additional energy reserves during emergencies, enhancing operational range and safety without causing permanent damage to the battery cells.
Implementation Method 1
a battery cell including an electrode with excess material
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for using unrecoverable energy in a battery cell is disclosed in this application. A system includes a battery cell, the battery cell includes an excess amount of cathode or anode that can function as half cells in an emergency. A user, such as a pilot, can command a controller to utilize unrecoverable energy based on battery data presented to the user.