Reconfigurable Battery Module Architecture for Heterogeneous Cell Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current battery energy storage systems (BESS) and reconfigurable BESS architectures face challenges in safely managing non-homogeneous second life power storage systems, where batteries from different manufacturers or with varying usage histories are integrated, leading to performance limitations and reduced system capabilities due to differences in storage capacity, charge/discharge rates, and safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A modular and reconfigurable battery energy storage system (RBESS) architecture that includes power storage modules with individual power converters and switching circuits, allowing for parallel or series connections and bypassing of faulty modules, along with a power management system that optimizes power configuration based on real-time conditions like temperature and state of charge to balance load and ensure safe operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional hardwired BESS with fixed cell configuration is used, then system structure is simple, but the system is vulnerable to single cell failure and cannot extend useful life
Solution Approach 1:
The battery system is divided into modular units, each with its own power electronics and control systems. This segmentation allows individual modules to be isolated or reconfigured without affecting the entire system, enabling fault tolerance while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized module designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic reconfiguration capabilities through power electronics switches that can change connection topologies in real-time. This allows the system to adapt its structure based on operational conditions and fault states, transforming a static vulnerable system into a dynamic resilient one.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If RBESS with reconfigurable architecture is used, then useful life of cells is extended, but storage/output capacity is diminished
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically changes operational parameters such as voltage, current, and connection topology based on the state of individual cells. By adjusting these parameters in real-time, the system can accommodate degraded cells and extend overall system life while minimizing the impact on total capacity through optimized power distribution.
3Ease of manufacture
If non-homogeneous second life batteries are integrated, then system cost is reduced, but system is constrained by lowest performance devices
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality control by managing each battery module according to its specific characteristics rather than treating all modules uniformly. Power electronics and control systems adjust operational parameters for each module based on its individual performance capabilities, allowing heterogeneous modules to work together at optimal levels without being limited by the weakest component.
Solution Approach 2:
The power electronics platform provides universal interfaces and control mechanisms that can accommodate different battery types, chemistries, and performance levels. This multi-functionality allows the system to integrate second-life batteries from various sources while maintaining overall system performance through adaptive management.
4Adaptability or versatility
If non-homogeneous second life batteries are integrated, then system versatility is improved, but safety risks increase due to different performance capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements comprehensive feedback mechanisms through sensors and control systems that continuously monitor the state of each battery module. This real-time feedback allows the control system to detect and respond to safety concerns in heterogeneous modules, adjusting operational parameters or isolating problematic modules to prevent safety incidents while maintaining system versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments provide modular and reconfigurable battery energy storage systems (RBESSs) exhibiting improved performance and power management capabilities. A power management system is provided to determine a power configuration for a plurality of power storage modules, each having a power storage device (e.g., a battery). The optimized power configuration balances a power load across active power storage modules (e.g., power storage devices being charged or discharged). The power management system is configured to control each power storage module/device on an individual basis, thereby enabling a greater degree of control and flexibility to achieve optimal balancing across a plurality of separate power storage devices within a power system (e.g., a battery pack).