Modular Battery Storage System for Second-Life Module Utilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Battery storage systems face challenges in utilizing second-life storage modules effectively due to voltage compatibility issues, leading to delayed recycling and increased costs, particularly in photovoltaic systems where peak energy demand does not align with generation.
Innovation Solution
A modular battery storage system design with a DC voltage circuit that includes series-connected electrochemical storage modules, each with its own housing, and a high-impedance resistor for safe grounding, allowing for the use of second-life modules and improving operational reliability by monitoring voltage drops and adjusting energy sources to maintain safe operating conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If second-life storage modules are used in battery storage systems, then cost-effectiveness is improved, but voltage compatibility and system reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The battery storage system is divided into multiple storage strings, each consisting of several storage modules connected in series. This segmentation allows flexible configuration where second-life modules can be grouped into strings with compatible voltage characteristics, while maintaining overall system functionality through parallel connection of multiple strings with different voltage ranges.
Solution Approach 2:
The system accommodates storage modules with different voltage ratings by configuring strings with varying numbers of series-connected modules. Each string's voltage parameters are adjusted to match the capabilities of the second-life modules assigned to it, allowing the system to utilize modules with different voltage characteristics while maintaining safe operating conditions.
2Power
If storage modules are connected in series to achieve operating voltage, then voltage requirements are met, but safety risks increase due to potential exceeding of module voltage ratings
Solution Approach 1:
A monitoring device continuously measures the voltage across each storage module and string, providing real-time feedback to the control device. This feedback mechanism enables the system to detect when a string's voltage approaches the rating of its modules, allowing the control device to adjust operation or isolate problematic strings before voltage overload occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device acts as an intermediary between the storage modules and the power converter, mediating voltage mismatches by selecting appropriate strings for charging/discharging based on real-time voltage conditions. This intermediary control prevents direct connection of incompatible voltage levels, eliminating the risk of voltage overload while still achieving the required operating voltage through proper string selection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular storage strings are configured with varying voltage ranges, then adaptability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control device implements universal control logic that can manage multiple storage strings with different voltage configurations through a single integrated interface. This multi-functional control approach allows the system to adapt to various module combinations without requiring separate control systems for each string, managing complexity through standardized control procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically configures which storage strings are active based on real-time voltage requirements and module availability. Rather than requiring fixed, pre-configured strings, the system can adaptively select and reconfigure active strings during operation, allowing flexible utilization of second-life modules with varying voltage characteristics while maintaining operational simplicity through dynamic rather than static configuration.
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 cost-effective and reliable energy storage in photovoltaic systems by safely utilizing second-life modules, improving performance and service life, while ensuring safe operation and reducing production costs.
Implementation Method 1
a high-impedance contact (insulation resistance) to a reference potential, with which a grounding point of the storage string is defined
Implementation Method 2
electrochemical storage modules (storage cell, DC voltage source, storage cell, battery, accumulator)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a battery storage system (4) for storing electrical energy, in particular a photovoltaic system (2), comprising a DC voltage circuit (24), which is guided between two terminals (22a, 22b), with a storage strand (32) which comprises a number of electrochemical storage modules (30) in a series circuit.