Electric Storage System Voltage-Based Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

When multiple types of electric storage modules are connected in parallel, some modules do not perform optimally due to voltage differences, leading to potential damage or deterioration, especially with the decreasing impedance of lithium-ion batteries, which requires precise voltage adjustment during module replacement.

Innovation Solution

The electric storage system incorporates switching units in each module to control electrical connections based on voltage differences, allowing for safe parallel connection and disconnection, and includes a system control unit to manage charging and discharging operations, ensuring efficient power supply and module replacement without strict voltage matching.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple types of electric storage modules are connected in parallel, then the system capacity and flexibility are improved, but voltage differences cause performance degradation and potential damage to modules

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem flexibilityVSAvoidmodule performance
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic switching units that automatically adjust the connection state of each electric storage module based on real-time voltage differences. When voltage difference exceeds a threshold, the switching unit disconnects the affected module; when voltage difference is within threshold, the module is reconnected. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by enabling flexible parallel connection of different module types while maintaining reliability through automatic voltage-based protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If strict voltage matching is required for parallel connection, then module safety is improved, but replacement complexity and time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule safetyVSAvoidreplacement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates voltage detection and comparison functions that are activated before a module is fully connected to the parallel circuit. The switching unit preemptively evaluates voltage compatibility and only permits connection if voltage difference is within safe thresholds. This preliminary action ensures module safety without requiring manual voltage matching procedures, thereby simplifying replacement operations while maintaining safety standards.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If voltage difference control is implemented, then module damage is prevented, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule protectionVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a self-service voltage control mechanism where each electric storage module is equipped with its own switching unit that autonomously monitors and controls its connection state based on voltage difference thresholds. The system automatically detects voltage deviations and triggers disconnection/reconnection operations without requiring external control intervention. This self-service approach provides robust module protection while minimizing the complexity of centralized control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 efficient and safe operation of electric storage systems with mixed module types by managing voltage differences and optimizing power supply, reducing module damage and simplifying replacement processes.

Implementation Method 1

switches the electrical connection relationship between the wiring and the first electric storage unit based on the voltage difference between the wiring and the first electric storage unit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVoltage difference: Electric Field

Data Source

PatentUS20220399734A1Electric storage system
Publication Date: 2022.12.15 NEXT E SOLUTIONS INC
  • US20220399734A1 patent drawing
  • US20220399734A1 patent drawing
  • US20220399734A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A first electric storage device includes a first switching unit disposed between a wiring and the first electric storage unit and configured to switch an electrical connection relationship between the wiring and the first electric storage unit based on a voltage difference between the wiring and the first electric storage unit. A second electric storage device includes a second switching unit disposed between the wiring and the second electric storage unit and configured to switch an electrical connection relationship between the wiring and the second electric storage unit based on a voltage difference between the wiring and the second electric storage unit. A charge end voltage of the first electric storage unit is equal to or less than a full charging voltage of the first electric storage unit, and is greater than a charge end voltage of the second electric storage unit.