Parallel Battery Pack Charging with Type-Specific Charge Profiles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power storage systems face inefficiencies when charging battery packs of different types connected in parallel, as they require specific charge profiles tailored to each type to optimize charging efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A power storage system incorporating a power conversion device and a controller that identifies the type of each battery pack connected in parallel and operates based on unique charge profiles specific to each type, such as a ternary lithium ion battery and an iron-phosphate-based lithium ion battery, ensuring efficient charging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single charge profile is used for all battery packs connected in parallel, then the device complexity is reduced, but the charging efficiency for each battery pack type deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the charge profile management by creating separate charge profiles for different battery pack types (e.g., nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal hydride, lithium-ion). The controller identifies the battery pack type and applies the corresponding specific charge profile, thereby resolving the contradiction between device complexity and charging efficiency.
2Productivity
If multiple charge profiles are stored for different battery pack types, then the charging efficiency for each battery pack type is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The battery pack includes an identification element (e.g., RFID tag, barcode) that automatically provides type identification information to the controller. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual identification or complex detection systems, allowing multiple charge profiles to be managed efficiently without proportionally increasing device complexity.
3Productivity
If the controller automatically identifies battery pack type and selects appropriate charge profiles, then the charging efficiency is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to automated control complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic type identification and charge profile selection is performed by the controller based on information from the battery pack's identification element. This automated process improves charging efficiency while maintaining ease of operation, as the user simply connects the battery pack without needing to manually configure charging parameters.
Data Source
AI summary
A power storage system includes: a power conversion device to which power is supplied from an external system; and a controller that controls an operation of the power conversion device. First and second battery packs different from each other in type are connected to the power conversion device in parallel. The controller stores a first charge profile for the first battery pack and a second charge profile for the second battery pack. The controller charges the first battery pack by operating the power conversion device based on the first charge profile. The controller charges the second battery pack by operating the power conversion device based on the second charge profile.