Battery Thermal Simulation Model Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Determining the correct simulation model or combination of models for precise electrical and thermal battery behavior is complex, and accurately parameterizing these models to match actual battery properties is challenging, affecting the accuracy of simulation results.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented method for time-discrete simulation of batteries, combining thermal and electrical models for co-simulation, where cell temperature is iteratively determined using thermal and air models, and aging prediction is linked to the simulation, allowing for precise characterization and monitoring of battery state, including different types and operating conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a thermal model with multiple sub-models (cell model, air model, thermal system model) is used to accurately describe heat exchange, then the precision of thermal behavior simulation is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision of thermal behavior simulationVSAvoidcomplexity of thermal model
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The thermal model is divided into three independent sub-models: a thermal cell model for internal heat generation, an air model for convective heat exchange with ambient air, and a thermal system model for heat exchange with the battery pack environment. This segmentation allows each sub-model to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system accuracy, resolving the contradiction between precision and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The thermal model is designed as a multi-functional integrated system that simultaneously handles internal heat generation, external convective cooling, and system-level thermal management. By combining multiple functions into a unified model framework, the patent achieves comprehensive thermal behavior description without proportionally increasing complexity.

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

2Measurement precision

If an iterative determination method is used to calculate cell temperature, air temperature, and ambient heat flow alternately, then the accuracy of simulation results is improved, but the computation time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of simulation resultsVSAvoidcomputation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a periodic iterative calculation approach where cell temperature, air temperature, and ambient heat flow are determined alternately in sequential steps. This periodic iteration allows the system to converge on accurate solutions while maintaining computational efficiency through structured calculation cycles rather than simultaneous complex solving.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The iterative method incorporates feedback mechanisms where the air temperature from the air model and ambient heat flow from the thermal system model are used to recalculate cell temperature in the thermal cell model. This feedback loop ensures accuracy by continuously adjusting calculations based on previous results, while the structured feedback approach manages computation time through systematic convergence.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If simulation models are parameterized specifically for different battery types and conditions, then the adaptability and precision for specific applications are improved, but the difficulty of model setup and parameter determination increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different battery typesVSAvoiddifficulty of model parameterization
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by allowing different parameter sets and model configurations for different battery types and operating conditions. The thermal model can be specifically parameterized for lithium-ion batteries with particular cooling designs, while maintaining the same fundamental framework. This enables high adaptability to specific applications without requiring complete model redesigns.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 enables precise state monitoring and prediction of battery health, helping to prevent rapid capacity reduction and optimize battery operation by accurately modeling thermal and electrical states, considering various battery types and conditions.

Implementation Method 1

an air model for heat exchange between the cells of the battery and ambient air

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeat exchange: Convection

Implementation Method 2

an air model for heat exchange between the cells of the battery and ambient air

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectConvective heat exchange: Convection

Implementation Method 3

a thermal system model for heat exchange between the cells of the battery and a respective environment

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThermal conduction: Conduction (thermal)

Data Source

PatentUS20220374568A1Simulation of a Battery
Publication Date: 2022.11.24 TWAICE TECH GMBH
  • US20220374568A1 patent drawing
  • US20220374568A1 patent drawing
  • US20220374568A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to general technology for monitoring the state of a battery, e.g., a lithium-ion battery. A thermal simulation model is used for this purpose. Different examples relate to the parameterizing of the thermal simulation model.