Partial-Power DC-DC Battery Pack Layout for Lower Conversion Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional energy storage units using DC-DC converters for full-power processing result in high power losses and low system efficiencies due to the processing of all charging and discharging power through the converter.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of partial-power processing energy storage units, where most discharge and charge power is transferred without passing through the DC-DC converter, utilizing a configuration with multiple battery stacks and DC-DC converters connected in series and/or parallel to minimize power losses and enhance efficiency, with the option of using contactors for safe and efficient connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If all charging and discharging power is processed through the DC-DC converter, then voltage matching and power flow control are achieved, but power losses increase and system efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power flow path into two distinct paths: a high-power path that bypasses the DC-DC converter for efficient power transfer, and a low-power path that routes through the DC-DC converter for voltage matching and control. This segmentation allows the majority of power to avoid converter losses while maintaining necessary control functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary switching mechanism (contactor or switch) that mediates between the high-power bypass path and the low-power DC-DC converter path. This intermediary enables dynamic routing of power flow, directing most power through the efficient bypass path while allowing the converter to handle only the necessary voltage matching portion.
2Productivity
If a DC-DC converter is used for full-power processing, then voltage matching between battery stacks is achieved, but system efficiency decreases due to high power losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by having the DC-DC converter process only a portion of the total power (specifically, the portion needed for voltage matching between different battery stacks), rather than processing all power. This partial processing approach maintains voltage matching capability while minimizing converter losses and improving overall system efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple battery stacks are connected in series and/or parallel configurations, then design flexibility and voltage matching are improved, but connection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reconfigurability through contactors that can switch battery stacks between series and parallel configurations based on operational requirements. This dynamic switching capability allows the system to adapt to different voltage and power requirements while maintaining manageable connection complexity through automated control.
Data Source
AI summary
Energy storage units and systems using batteries in combination with DC-DC converters are arranged in various parallel and/or series configurations to provide partial power processing through the DC-DC converters, and achieve low power loss and safe operation.