ESS Voltage Reduction After Redundant Module Depletion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional energy storage systems (ESS) face challenges in maintaining operational longevity and reducing costs due to the reliance on redundant modules, which increase costs and risk overvoltage faults when all redundant modules are exhausted.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that reduces the terminal voltage of the ESS when redundant modules are depleted, allowing continued operation by managing module stress and reducing the need for redundant modules, thereby extending the operational lifetime and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If redundant modules are added to the ESS, then the operational lifetime and reliability are improved, but the system cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating voltage parameter of the ESS from a fixed value to a dynamically adjustable value. When modules are bypassed, the terminal voltage is reduced to match the reduced number of active modules, allowing the system to operate reliably without requiring redundant modules at the original voltage level. This parameter change resolves the contradiction by enabling reliable operation with fewer components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic adjustment of the terminal voltage based on the operational status of modules. Instead of a static voltage level that requires redundant modules for fault tolerance, the system dynamically adapts the voltage to the current configuration of active modules, thereby achieving reliability without the need for additional redundant components.
2Productivity
If all redundant modules are bypassed, then the system continues to operate, but the risk of overvoltage faults increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically changes the terminal voltage parameter in response to module bypassing. When redundant modules are depleted and modules are bypassed for faults, the system reduces the terminal voltage to a level appropriate for the remaining active modules. This prevents overvoltage conditions that would otherwise occur if the original voltage level were maintained, thereby eliminating the harmful effect while preserving continuous operation.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the terminal voltage is reduced, then the operational lifetime is extended and module stress is reduced, but the power output decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic voltage adjustment rather than a fixed reduced voltage. The terminal voltage is adapted in real-time based on the number of active modules and system requirements. This dynamic approach allows the system to extend operational lifetime by reducing voltage stress on modules while minimizing the impact on power output by maintaining the highest possible voltage level that is safe for the current configuration.
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AI summary
There is disclosed herein a method (100) to operate a system (1) comprising an energy storage system, ESS, (20) and a converter (10). The ESS being connected to the converter such that a DC-side (2) of the converter forms DC terminals (12, 14) between which at least one string (21) of modules (22) of the ESS is connected. The method comprises receiving (110) a bypass request to bypass at least one module in the ESS, based on a total number of modules to be bypassed (N1) exceeding a number of redundant modules (N2), controlling (120) the converter to reduce the terminal voltage of the ESS; and after reducing the terminal voltage of the ESS, bypassing (130) the module. There is further disclosed herein a system comprising a central controller (30) performing said method (100).