Redox Flow Battery Module Balancing by Pump Shutdown and Short-Circuiting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing redox flow battery systems face imbalances between battery modules connected in series due to manufacturing variations, aging processes, and differing operating conditions, leading to reduced usable capacity and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A simplified redox flow battery system design that eliminates switches for interrupting series connections, using short-circuiting and controlled pump operations to balance module imbalances during charging and discharging, with optional maintenance and partial load mode decoupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If battery modules are connected in series to increase system voltage and capacity, then the energy storage capacity is improved, but imbalances between modules occur due to manufacturing variations and aging, reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
A current sensor is introduced as an intermediary element to monitor the current flowing through each battery module. The control device uses this sensor data to detect imbalances and activate balancing measures, serving as a mediator between the physical battery modules and the control system that manages their operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the control device continuously monitors current values from sensors in each battery module and adjusts operation accordingly. When imbalances are detected through this feedback loop, the control device activates balancing measures such as decoupling affected modules, thereby maintaining system reliability while preserving energy storage capacity.
2Reliability
If balancing measures are implemented to equalize module states, then the reliability is improved, but the system complexity increases due to additional switches and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The existing switches in the redox flow battery system are designed to serve multiple functions: normal operational switching and balancing operations. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated balancing switches, thereby maintaining reliability through comprehensive balancing capability while avoiding increased system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device automatically detects imbalances using current sensor feedback and autonomously activates balancing measures without requiring additional manual intervention or complex external control systems. This self-service capability maintains reliability while minimizing added complexity by utilizing the existing control infrastructure.
3Power
If all battery modules operate simultaneously to maximize power output, then the power delivery is improved, but the risk of damage increases when imbalances occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the operational status of battery modules based on real-time balance conditions. During normal operation, all modules operate simultaneously to maximize power delivery. When imbalances are detected, the control device dynamically decouples affected modules through switching mechanisms, thereby preventing damage while maintaining optimal power output from healthy modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device takes preliminary action by detecting imbalances through current monitoring and activating balancing measures before damage can occur. This preemptive approach allows the system to protect vulnerable modules by decoupling them in advance, thereby preventing harmful effects while maintaining overall system power delivery capability.
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
Enhances the usable capacity and reduces the risk of damage by equalizing module states, allowing for efficient operation and reduced production costs through optimized balancing interventions.
Implementation Method 1
Redox flow battery system
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a method of operating a redox flow battery system, wherein an intervention is performed on a battery module comprising the following steps: switching off the at least one pump of the battery module in question in order to stop the supply of electrolyte to the cell arrangement; short-circuiting the battery module in question when the terminal voltage of the battery module in question has fallen below a predefined value; performing measures; switching on the at least one pump of the battery module in question; and opening the short circuit of the battery module in question.