Bootstrap DC/DC Battery Modules for Low-Loss Power Sharing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for interconnecting energy storage modules, such as battery packs, are inefficient and potentially unsafe due to uncontrollable energy circulation and unequal load sharing, especially when using large DC/DC converters that result in significant losses during power transfer.
Innovation Solution
The use of smaller, isolated DC/DC converters connected in a bootstrap source mode within each energy storage module to regulate power, voltage, and current, allowing only a fraction of energy to flow through the converter while the module itself delivers the remaining power, thereby reducing losses and improving efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If large DC/DC converters are used to regulate power between battery packs and load, then power regulation capability is improved, but system efficiency deteriorates due to significant losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by using the DC/DC converter only when necessary (when battery voltage exceeds load voltage requirements) rather than continuously. The converter operates in a bootstrap mode where it provides just enough power regulation to enable the battery to directly power the load, rather than converting all power through the converter. This reduces cumulative losses while maintaining regulation capability when needed.
2Device complexity
If battery packs are interconnected directly in parallel, then system complexity is reduced, but load sharing becomes uncontrolled and potentially unsafe
Solution Approach 1:
Each battery pack is equipped with its own integrated DC/DC converter that autonomously regulates its own power output. The converter monitors the battery's voltage and current levels and automatically adjusts power delivery to maintain safe operating parameters and equitable load sharing. This self-service approach eliminates the need for complex external control systems while ensuring reliable load distribution.
3Power
If DC/DC converters transfer all power from battery to load, then complete power control is achieved, but converter size and cooling requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The DC/DC converter is designed to handle only the portion of power that requires conversion (when battery voltage exceeds load requirements), rather than being sized to handle the entire power load continuously. This partial action approach allows the use of smaller, lighter converter components and reduced cooling infrastructure while maintaining complete power control capability when needed.
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 enhances the efficiency of energy storage systems by minimizing losses and enabling modular, distributed energy storage with reduced size and cooling requirements, while maintaining control over individual module power regulation.
Implementation Method 1
isolated DC/DC converters connected in a bootstrap source mode within each energy storage module to regulate power, voltage, and current
Data Source
AI summary
The invention includes devices and methods used to regulate the power, voltage and/or current out of an individual energy storage module. A plurality of energy storage modules and/or individual interconnected energy storage modules can form an energy storage system when interconnected in series, parallel or series/parallel. The invention includes a method for storing and delivering energy, comprising providing an energy storage module for boosting the voltage of the energy storage component while delivering power to a load.