Dynamic Battery String Switching for Wide DC Voltage Swings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current energy storage systems face challenges in achieving increased availability, reliability, and reduced costs while managing wide DC voltage swings across multiple operating states, particularly in metal-air battery systems that require efficient power conversion during charge and discharge cycles.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of dynamic battery string configurations with controllable switch connections and power conversion systems that adjust configurations based on operating states, allowing for efficient power conversion and reduced voltage differences between charge and discharge states, thereby optimizing power conversion equipment usage and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If battery strings are connected in series to achieve maximum operational voltage, then voltage output is improved, but the voltage difference between charge and discharge states increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of battery strings using controllable switches that can change connection topology between series and parallel arrangements based on operating state (charge/discharge). This dynamic adjustment reduces the voltage difference between charge and discharge states, allowing the use of lower-ratio power conversion equipment while maintaining high voltage output capability when needed.
2Device complexity
If fixed battery string configuration is used, then device complexity is reduced, but power conversion efficiency decreases due to wide voltage swings
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically reconfigures battery string connections based on real-time operating conditions, switching between different series/parallel arrangements to optimize voltage output and minimize the voltage swing range. This reduces energy losses in power conversion while maintaining operational simplicity through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical configuration parameters of the battery system by adjusting the number of strings in series or parallel through controllable switches. This parameter adjustment optimizes the voltage output characteristics for different operating states, improving power conversion efficiency without requiring complex manual reconfiguration.
3Power
If higher voltage battery strings are used, then power output capability is improved, but the cost of power conversion equipment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dynamic reconfiguration to maintain voltage output within an optimized range for power conversion equipment. By adjusting the number of battery strings in series during different operating states, the system achieves high power output capability when needed while keeping the voltage swing ratio low, thereby reducing power conversion equipment costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The controllable switch network provides multi-functionality by enabling the same battery system to operate in different voltage configurations (series for high voltage, parallel for current) to serve multiple operational requirements. This universal approach allows use of standardized, lower-cost power conversion equipment that handles a narrower voltage range.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and devices of the various embodiments may include battery string arrangements for power systems, such as dynamic battery string configurations, inter-module connections, and other configurations.