Bi-Stable Relay Control for Low-Loss Battery Bus Connection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Mono-stable relays in battery systems consume significant energy to maintain the closed state, reducing the overall efficiency of power systems by using energy to stay connected to the bus, especially in systems with multiple relays.
Innovation Solution
Implementing bi-stable relays that switch states upon receiving a control signal and remain in that state without continuous current, using a controller to manage the bi-stable relay's operation with power from either a primary source or the battery cells, minimizing energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mono-stable relays are used to maintain continuous connection to the bus, then reliable electrical connection is ensured, but significant energy is consumed to maintain the closed state
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using pulse-width modulation (PWM) signals to periodically activate the relay coil only when state transitions are needed. The bi-stable relay maintains its state without continuous current, and the controller periodically sends control signals to switch between closed and open states based on battery conditions, thereby eliminating continuous energy consumption while maintaining reliable connection when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The bi-stable relay structure enables self-service by maintaining its closed state without requiring continuous external energy input. Once activated, the relay's mechanical structure holds the contacts closed without additional power, and the system serves itself by using the existing battery connection to power the controller that manages the relay state transitions.
2Use of energy by moving object
If bi-stable relays are used to minimize energy consumption, then energy efficiency is improved, but the relay requires control signals to maintain state switching
Solution Approach 1:
The controller performs multiple functions: it monitors battery voltage, determines state of charge, controls the bi-stable relay switching, and manages PWM signals. This multi-functionality consolidates control complexity into a single component that already exists in the battery management system, minimizing additional complexity while enabling the energy-efficient bi-stable relay operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring battery voltage and state of charge, then using this information to control relay state transitions. The controller receives feedback from the battery system and adjusts the relay positioning accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that manages the bi-stable relay's state switching based on actual battery conditions.
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
Bi-stable relays reduce energy loss by maintaining the relay state without additional current, enhancing the efficiency of battery systems by minimizing power usage and maintaining connectivity after the initial current pulse.
Implementation Method 1
bi-stable relays that switch states upon receiving a control signal and remain in that state without continuous current
Data Source
AI summary
Present embodiments include a control system for one or more battery cells. The control system includes a bi-stable relay configured to switch a state of the bi-stable relay upon receiving a control signal to electrically connect or electrically disconnect the one or more battery cells to a bus and to remain in the state after receiving the control signal. The control system includes a controller configured to be operatively coupled to the bi-stable relay and configured to send the control signal indicative of instructions to control operation of the bi-stable relay based on the state.