Rail Battery Leasing and Wireless Power Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge lies in determining the value and life expectancy of chemically active battery or ultra-capacitor cells used in large modular battery systems, particularly in rail equipment, where the battery's shorter life and variable usage patterns make it difficult to justify capital expenses, and in wireless power transfer systems for rail applications, where precise alignment and power distribution are critical issues.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a variable rate leasing program for battery systems based on energy usage, measured in kW-hrs, with different billing rates for charging and regeneration, and deploying multiple WPT receivers under passenger cars to transmit power through existing HEP cables, allowing for flexible power distribution without precise stopping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a large battery system is purchased as capital equipment, then the equipment can store regenerative braking energy, but the battery's shorter life and variable usage patterns make it difficult to justify the capital expense
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from a capital equipment model to a consumable service model. The battery system is leased based on energy throughput parameters (kW-hrs charged and discharged) rather than being purchased as a fixed capital asset. This changes the economic parameter from upfront capital expense to ongoing operational cost, making the battery value proposition comparable to fuel consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service through automated tracking of battery charge/discharge cycles and C-rate monitoring. The system automatically calculates lease charges based on actual energy throughput and degradation patterns without requiring manual intervention. This enables the battery leasing model to operate efficiently at scale, reducing administrative overhead and making the consumable model economically viable.
2Speed
If the C-rate of charging current is increased to charge the battery during regenerative events, then the battery can be charged faster, but the degradation per cycle increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by continuously monitoring the C-rate during charge/discharge cycles and using this information to calculate lease charges. The system provides real-time feedback on the impact of charging speed on battery degradation, allowing operators to understand the trade-off between charging speed and battery life. This feedback mechanism is embedded in the leasing model, where higher C-rate usage results in proportionally higher lease charges, incentivizing optimized charging patterns.
3Power
If a single large WPT system is used to transfer power to the train, then high power levels can be transferred, but precise alignment between transmitter and receiver is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing a single large WPT system into multiple smaller WPT units distributed along the track. Each unit transfers power independently to the train as it passes overhead. This segmentation eliminates the need for precise alignment between a single large transmitter and receiver, as each smaller unit has a reduced alignment requirement. The collective output of multiple units achieves the desired total power transfer capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from a single-point power transfer model to a distributed linear array of WPT units. Instead of requiring the train to stop precisely under one large transmitter, power is transferred continuously as the train passes over multiple distributed units along the track. This transforms the problem from a two-dimensional alignment challenge to a one-dimensional distributed system, significantly reducing alignment precision requirements.
4Power
If conventional WPT systems are used for rail applications, then power can be transferred wirelessly, but the systems require accurate alignment and are not practical where people will be near or walking over the track
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by using multiple smaller WPT units distributed along the track rather than one large high-power unit. Each smaller unit operates at lower power levels, reducing the safety hazard to pedestrians who may be near or walking over the track. The distributed configuration also eliminates the need for large overhead structures that could pose safety risks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by tailoring the power transfer characteristics to local conditions. Each WPT unit is sized and positioned according to the specific requirements of its location on the track. In areas where pedestrians are present, smaller units with lower power densities are used, reducing safety hazards while still providing effective power transfer to passing trains.
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 approach allows for more accurate cost accounting of battery systems, reducing the financial burden on customers and extending battery life, while enabling efficient and flexible wireless power transfer that scales with infrastructure, reducing infrastructure costs and increasing energy transfer efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
one or more wireless power transfer (WPT) transmitters mounted to the rail separate from the train; a WPT receiver on one of the one or more passenger cars configured to receive power from one of the one or more WPT transmitters
Data Source
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AI summary
A battery management system for determining a lease rate for a rechargeable battery includes the rechargeable battery in communication with a database, a current sensor, a voltage sensor, a timer, a controller, and a memory in communication with the controller.