DC/DC Converter Rack Switching for Continuous ESS Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing energy storage systems face high costs and inefficiencies due to the need for a power conversion device for each battery rack, especially when multiple racks are connected, leading to discontinuous output and reduced power quality during switching between racks.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising a main DC/DC converter and an auxiliary DC/DC converter, with a controller to maintain output during switching and perform compensating operations using an energy storage device like a supercapacitor, ensuring continuous power conversion and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a power conversion device is provided for each battery rack, then each rack can be independently managed, but the system cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple battery racks into a single group managed by one power conversion device. The controller internally manages multiple racks (first battery rack, second battery rack, etc.) and performs switching between them, eliminating the need for separate power conversion devices for each rack while maintaining independent management capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The power conversion device is designed with universal functionality to handle multiple battery racks through switching operations. The controller can selectively connect different battery racks to the power conversion device, allowing one device to perform the functions that would otherwise require multiple dedicated devices.
2Device complexity
If multiple battery racks are connected to share a power conversion device, then system cost is reduced, but output continuity deteriorates during switching between racks
Solution Approach 1:
The controller performs preliminary switching operations between battery racks in advance. When switching from a first battery rack to a second battery rack, the controller proactively manages the transition to ensure seamless power delivery, preventing output discontinuity before it can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The power conversion device maintains continuous power conversion operation while switching between multiple battery racks. The controller ensures that the power conversion process continues uninterrupted during rack switching, preserving output continuity and eliminating gaps in power delivery.
3Adaptability or versatility
If battery racks are switched during operation, then individual rack maintenance becomes possible, but power quality deteriorates due to output discontinuity
Solution Approach 1:
The controller acts as an intermediary that manages the switching between battery racks and the power conversion device. It coordinates the switching operations to maintain stable power output, preventing power quality degradation that would otherwise occur during rack transitions for maintenance purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller performs preliminary switching management to enable rack maintenance while preserving power quality. By proactively managing the transition and maintaining continuous power conversion, the system allows individual rack maintenance without the harmful effect of power quality degradation.
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 solution enables continuous power conversion and improved power quality by maintaining output during switching between battery racks, reducing the overall cost of the energy storage system and enhancing its efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a first DC/DC converter selectively connected to one of the plurality of battery racks to perform power conversion
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for controlling charge and discharge power in an energy storage system including a plurality of battery racks may comprise a first direct current/direct current (DC/DC) converter selectively connected to one of the plurality of battery racks to perform power conversion; a second DC/DC converter connected to the first DC/DC converter; and a controller for controlling the second DC/DC converter to perform an operation of maintaining the output of the first DC/DC converter while a switching between battery racks by the first DC/DC converter is being performed.