Modular DC Storage Converter Groups for Simplified Power Transfer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing storage devices face challenges in simplifying direct current transmission and optimizing charging and discharging processes of storage elements, particularly in systems with multiple converter groups, leading to inefficiencies and complex data processing requirements.

Innovation Solution

A modular storage device design with interconnected control modules and full bridges, utilizing a data bus for communication, allows for optimized charging and discharging processes, reduced data processing, and simplified module replacement, while enabling direct current transmission through two-pole connections.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If multiple full-bridge converter groups are used in storage devices, then current and voltage profiles can be optimized, but device complexity and data processing requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging and discharging optimizationVSAvoiddata processing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit is segmented into multiple control modules, each responsible for a specific storage element or converter group. Each control module independently processes data for its assigned component, reducing the overall data processing burden on the central control unit while maintaining optimized charging and discharging control across all converter groups

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a hierarchical control structure with control modules operating at different levels. Local control modules handle real-time switching decisions for full bridges, while a central control unit manages overall system coordination. This dimensional separation of control functions reduces data processing complexity at each level while maintaining system-wide optimization

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Loss of energy

If multiple converter groups are connected to storage elements, then energy transfer efficiency improves, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy transfer efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Each full-bridge converter group is designed with universal functionality to handle both charging and discharging operations across different storage elements. The converter groups can be dynamically reconfigured through the control modules to serve multiple purposes, maintaining high energy transfer efficiency while reducing the need for dedicated components for each function

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs dynamic switching of full-bridge converter groups based on real-time storage state feedback from control modules. Converter groups can be activated or deactivated, and their connection configurations can be dynamically changed to optimize energy transfer efficiency for current operating conditions, preventing energy losses without requiring permanent complex hardwired connections

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of repair

If storage devices are designed with modular converter groups, then module replacement becomes easier, but connection complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodule replacement easeVSAvoidconnection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The converter groups are segmented into modular units with standardized interfaces and two-pole connections. Each module can be independently replaced or upgraded without affecting other parts of the system. The control modules are configured to automatically recognize and adapt to replaced modules, simplifying the replacement process while maintaining system integrity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The modular design allows for parameter standardization in connections (such as standardized voltage levels, connection protocols, and communication interfaces). This standardization reduces connection complexity by providing uniform interfaces across all modules, making replacement straightforward while allowing internal parameters of individual modules to be optimized for specific applications

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP4302376B1Storage device and method for transmitting a direct current
Publication Date: 2025.07.23 BODE GERALD
  • EP4302376B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4302376B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2b
  • EP4302376B1 patent drawingFigure 2c~3a

AI summary

The invention firstly relates to a storage device comprising: two-pole storage elements (13) for electric charges; at least two converter groups of full bridges (16) connected in series, exactly one of the full bridges (16) of each of the converter groups being connected to poles (15) of each of the storage elements (13); and a control unit for determining storage states and optimising charging and discharging processes of the storage elements (13) via the full bridges (16) on the basis of said storage state; and one two-pole connection on each of the converter groups. The invention also relates to a method for transmitting a current between a power unit and a storage device comprising: two-pole storage elements (13); at least two converter groups of full bridges (16) each connected in series, exactly one of the full bridges (16) of each of the converter groups being connected to poles (15) of each of the storage elements (13); and a control unit which determines storage states of the storage elements (13) and optimises their charging and discharging processes via the full bridges (16) on the basis of said storage state; and one two-pole connection on each of the converter groups. In order to simplify the transmission of DC current, according to the invention the current at each of the connections is transmitted as DC current.