Battery Systems with Independently Controlled Cell Sets
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional battery systems using a single type of battery cells face challenges in addressing competing requirements for power output and energy density, especially at varying temperatures, leading to design compromises that affect performance and efficiency, particularly in applications like electric vehicles where batteries are used for both traction and thermal management.
Innovation Solution
A battery system comprising multiple independently controlled sets of battery cells, where each set can be discharged and charged based on different factors such as power demand, type of cells, and temperature, allowing for the use of cells with varying power output capabilities and energy densities, enabling cross-charging and optimized power delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single type of battery cell is used in the battery system, then the system design is simplified, but the ability to address competing requirements for power output and energy density is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The battery system is divided into multiple independently controlled sets of battery cells, where each set can be discharged and charged independently based on different factors such as power demand, cell type, and temperature. This segmentation allows the system to optimize for both power output and energy density simultaneously by selecting which sets to discharge based on current requirements.
2Power
If battery cells with high power output capability are used, then the vehicle acceleration performance is improved, but the energy density is reduced, decreasing the vehicle range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines different types of battery cells with varying power output capabilities and energy densities into a single battery system. By merging high-power cells and high-energy-density cells in separate sets, the system can deliver both high power for acceleration and high energy density for extended range, resolving the trade-off between these two competing requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If different types of battery cells are integrated into the same battery system, then the performance requirements can be better addressed, but the system complexity for managing energy exchange between different battery types increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each set of battery cells in the system is configured with specific local qualities - some sets contain cells optimized for high power output while others contain cells optimized for high energy density. The control system selectively activates specific sets based on local requirements (power demand, temperature, state of charge), managing complexity by making localized decisions rather than system-wide control.
4Power
If battery cells operate at high temperatures, then the power output may be maintained, but the batteries become unsafe or degrade quickly
Solution Approach 1:
The control system acts as an intermediary between the battery cells and the power demand requirements. It monitors temperature, state of charge, and power output capabilities of each set, and selectively discharges appropriate sets based on current conditions. This intermediary control prevents any single set from operating in unsafe conditions while maintaining overall system power output.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are battery systems having multiple independently controlled sets of battery cells and method of using these systems to power, for example, drive trains of electric and hybrid vehicles. A battery system includes two or more sets of battery cells. Each set can be discharged and/or charged independently of another set based on different factors, such as a current power demand, power output capabilities of each set, and other like factors. One or multiple sets can be used to deliver power at any given time. In some embodiments, one set may be used to charge another set in the same power system. The same or different types of battery cells may be used in different sets. For example, one set may have battery cells having a higher power output capability, while another set may have battery cells with a higher energy density.