Rail Vehicle Power Storage Converter with Independent DC Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy storage systems for track-guided vehicles require complex energy management units to optimize the operation of different energy storage devices, such as ultracaps and electrochemical batteries, due to their varying characteristics and voltage levels.
Innovation Solution
The system operates individual phases of the converter as independent direct-current controllers, allowing different energy storage devices to be charged and discharged independently, using a single converter with modified software, enabling simpler operation and integration of various energy storage devices with different characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional converter is used to connect different energy storage devices to the drive unit, then different energy storage devices can be operated independently with different voltages and charging characteristics, but a complex energy management unit and multiple converters are required
Solution Approach 1:
The converter is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the converter for the traction drive and as independent direct-current controllers for charging and discharging different energy storage devices. Each phase of the converter can be operated independently as a DC controller, eliminating the need for separate management units and multiple converters.
Solution Approach 2:
The converter is divided into independent phases, where each phase can be operated as an independent direct-current controller. This segmentation allows different energy storage devices to be controlled independently while using a single integrated converter structure, reducing overall system complexity.
2Productivity
If multiple converters and energy management units are used to optimize energy storage devices, then optimal operation is achieved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The single converter performs multiple functions including traction drive conversion and independent DC control for energy storage devices. The controller is programmed to execute different control algorithms for optimizing energy storage operation, replacing what would traditionally require multiple dedicated converters and management units.
Solution Approach 2:
The functions of multiple converters and energy management units are merged into a single converter system. The converter phases are combined into one integrated unit that can operate independently or in coordination, reducing the total number of components while maintaining optimization capabilities.
3Device complexity
If individual phases of the converter are operated as independent DC controllers, then the system is simplified and commercial converter technology can be used, but independent control of energy storage devices must be achieved through software modification
Solution Approach 1:
The control parameters and software algorithms of the converter are modified to enable independent DC control functionality. By changing the software parameters and control logic, the existing converter hardware can be adapted to serve dual purposes, achieving system simplification while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standard hardware with customized software.
Data Source
AI summary
An energy storage system for a track-guided vehicle includes at least one electrical energy storage device and at least one electrochemical energy storage device connected through at least one converter to a supply line and to a drive unit for the vehicle. Individual phases of said at least one converter can be operated as independent direct-current controllers for independent charging and discharging of different energy storage devices.