Modular Multi-Input Power Conversion with GaN Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high costs and intermittency of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, make energy storage systems expensive and inefficient, particularly for off-grid locations, as they require large storage systems to provide grid independence and backup power during outages, and are limited by weather conditions.
Innovation Solution
A multi-input energy storage system with a controller that converts power from various renewable sources to DC for storage and prioritizes power distribution based on load curves, source types, and user settings, using gallium nitride power electronics for efficient inversion and allowing modular expansion, enabling efficient energy management and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a large energy storage system is installed to provide grid independence and backup power, then reliability is improved, but cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage system is divided into multiple modular battery packs that can be independently connected in series or parallel configurations. This segmentation allows the system to be scaled from small to large capacities by simply adding or removing modules, eliminating the need for a single large complex system and reducing overall cost while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic configuration capabilities where battery modules can be reconfigured between series and parallel connections based on operational requirements. This dynamic adaptability allows the same physical components to serve different reliability needs, optimizing performance while minimizing the number of components required.
2Power
If solar panels are installed as a permanent fixture, then power generation capability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates due to inability to move or relocate
Solution Approach 1:
The solar power system is designed as modular, portable panels rather than permanent fixtures. These segmented panels can be easily assembled, disassembled, and relocated to different positions or locations, maintaining power generation capability while providing the adaptability to move when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The solar panel system is designed to serve multiple functions and locations. The same portable solar panels can be used in various settings (rooftop, ground-mounted, temporary installations) and can be reconfigured based on different power needs, making the system universally applicable rather than location-specific.
3Loss of energy
If separate control of multiple input power converters is implemented, then energy efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple input power converter controls are merged into a single centralized controller that manages all converters simultaneously. This unified control approach maintains the energy efficiency benefits of separate converter optimization while eliminating the complexity of multiple independent control systems through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed as a universal multi-functional device that can manage different types of power converters (AC-DC, DC-DC, inverters) from various renewable sources. This single universal controller performs the functions of multiple specialized controllers, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining optimal energy efficiency.
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
The system provides efficient energy storage and distribution, optimizing power usage from multiple renewable sources, reducing costs by allowing modular expansion and efficient energy management, and ensuring grid independence with a compact and portable design.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of input power converters are coupled to the input connectors, and are configured to convert the input power to direct current (DC) power for storage
Implementation Method 2
one or more output power converters are configured to convert stored DC power to output power for use by one or more loads
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses, systems, and methods are presented for energy storage. A plurality of input connectors are configured to receive input power from one or more power sources. A plurality of input power converters are coupled to the input connectors, and are configured to convert the input power to direct current (DC) power for storage. A controller is configured to control power flow through the input power converters on a per-converter basis so that separate converters are separately controlled. One or more output power converters are configured to convert stored DC power to output power for use by one or more loads. The controller is configured to control power flow through the one or more output power converters. One or more output connectors are configured to transfer the output power to the one or more loads.