Hybrid Battery Capacitor Charge Discharge System
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Solution Overview
Problem
The service lifespan of batteries is shortened by frequent high-output charging/discharging or deep cycle usage, while capacitors are resistant but have limited capacity, making it challenging to efficiently manage energy transfer between the two in vehicle power systems.
Innovation Solution
A charge/discharge system comprising a battery and a capacitor with a controller that manages energy transfer based on state-of-charge maps to optimize power distribution, using the capacitor for high-power demands and the battery for longer-term energy storage, thereby improving energy efficiency and extending battery lifespan.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the battery is used for frequent high-output charging/discharging or deep cycle usage, then the power output capability is improved, but the service lifespan is shortened
Solution Approach 1:
The power management system is segmented into two distinct components: a battery for steady-state power supply and a capacitor for transient high-power demands. This segmentation allows each component to operate within its optimal performance range, with the battery providing sustained energy and the capacitor delivering short-duration high current bursts, thereby extending the battery's service lifespan while maintaining high power output capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the battery and capacitor into a hybrid power architecture where both components work together. The battery provides stable voltage and long-term energy storage, while the capacitor supplements during high-power transients such as engine starting or air conditioner compression. This combination resolves the contradiction by achieving both high power output and extended service lifespan through coordinated operation of both energy storage devices.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If the capacitor is used for high-power charging/discharging, then the service lifespan is extended, but the storable capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage function is segmented between the capacitor and battery based on their respective strengths. The capacitor handles short-duration high-power events (engine start, A/C compression) where its rapid charge/discharge capability and long cycle life are advantageous. The battery provides the bulk energy storage for sustained operation. This segmentation allows the capacitor to extend service lifespan through frequent cycling while the battery compensates for its limited storable capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The capacitor serves multiple functions: it provides high-power bursts for engine starting, supplements power during air conditioner compression, and can rapidly accept regenerative braking energy. By making the capacitor multi-functional, the system overcomes its limited storable capacity constraint, as the capacitor's unique capabilities are leveraged across multiple operational scenarios rather than relying solely on large capacity for a single function.
3Adaptability or versatility
If both battery and capacitor are mounted together, then the power management capability is improved, but the control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system continuously monitors the state of charge (SOC) of both the battery and capacitor, along with vehicle operational parameters. Based on this feedback, the controller dynamically determines the optimal power distribution strategy. For example, when the capacitor SOC is high and a high-power event is detected, the system directs power through the capacitor; when the capacitor is depleted, it switches to battery power. This feedback-based control manages the complexity by using real-time data to make adaptive decisions rather than relying on complex pre-programmed sequences.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automatic charge management where the battery and capacitor can autonomously manage their own charging states based on operational conditions. During regenerative braking, the system automatically directs energy to the capacitor first (which can accept rapid charging), and only when the capacitor is full does it charge the battery. This self-service approach reduces control complexity by allowing the system to automatically optimize power flow without requiring complex external control algorithms for every scenario.
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 energy efficiency and fuel efficiency by leveraging the strengths of both battery and capacitor, allowing for robust power management without the need for frequent switching or increased capacity, reducing battery size and cost while maintaining performance.
Implementation Method 1
the capacitor has a small storable capacity... the capacitor is resistant to such frequent charging/discharging or a deep cycle and has a long service lifespan
Implementation Method 2
the battery has a large storable capacity... the battery is used to supply electric power to an electric motor
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3
AI summary
A charge/discharge system includes first and second electric chargers that supplies electric power to a motor generator and charges electric power generated by the motor generator, an electric power converter that complementarily performs charging/discharging between the first and second electric chargers, and a controller. The controller controls the electric power converter based on charging conditions of the first and second electric chargers such that electric power charged in the first electric charger is charged in the second electric charger, or electric power charged in the second electric charger is charged in the first electric charger.