Switchable Energy Storage Device Inductive Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy storage systems for vehicles and stationary applications face challenges in efficiently charging energy storage cells, particularly in providing a simple and cost-effective method for inductive charging that does not require additional components, while also accommodating varying voltage ranges and modular expansion.
Innovation Solution
The system incorporates a transformer design with a primary winding for charging and a secondary winding for normal operation, utilizing semiconductor switches for rectification and allowing for modular expansion with serial inductances, enabling inductive charging and wireless charging capabilities without the need for additional rectifier functionality or components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a transformer with primary winding is added for inductive charging, then inductive charging capability is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the charging inductance required for normal operation with the primary winding of the transformer needed for inductive charging. By integrating these two functions into a single inductance component, the system enables inductive charging capability without adding separate charging infrastructure, thus reducing overall device complexity while maintaining versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The inductance in the operating circuit serves dual purposes: it functions as the charging inductance during normal operation and as the primary winding of the transformer during inductive charging operations. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for dedicated charging components, resolving the contradiction between enabling new charging capabilities and maintaining device simplicity
2Device complexity
If semiconductor switches are used for rectification during charging, then additional rectifier components are eliminated, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The semiconductor switches already present in the energy storage modules are made to perform dual functions: power switching during normal operation and rectification during charging. By utilizing the existing switching components for rectification, the system eliminates the need for separate rectifier components, simplifying charger design while the control system manages the increased precision requirements through coordinated switching control
3Adaptability or versatility
If energy storage modules are connected in series to increase voltage range, then voltage adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamically switchable series-parallel configurations of energy storage modules, allowing the system to adapt its voltage range by reconfiguring module connections. The semiconductor switches enable real-time transitions between different series-parallel arrangements, providing voltage adaptability while managing circuit complexity through automated switching control rather than fixed complex wiring
4Productivity
If multiple parallel strings with serial modules are used for modular expansion, then scalability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The energy storage system is divided into multiple independent parallel strings, each containing series-connected modules that can be independently configured and scaled. This segmentation allows modular expansion by simply adding or removing complete string units, improving scalability while the standardized modular design helps manage the inherent complexity through repetition of proven configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamic switching control to manage the parallel strings and series modules, enabling flexible reconfiguration based on power requirements. The semiconductor switches automatically manage the complex interconnections between multiple strings and modules, providing scalability while the control system handles the configuration complexity through automated switching logic
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 simplifies the charger design, reduces costs, and allows for flexible adaptation to different energy sources, enabling efficient inductive and wireless charging of energy storage cells with reduced component requirements, while maintaining efficient operation and modular scalability.
Implementation Method 1
a primary-side feed effects an electrical charge for the energy storage cells via the transformer principle
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3b
Figure 4~5
AI summary
Switchable energy storage device (10), having: - at least two energy storage modules (1) connected in series, wherein each energy storage module (1) comprises at least one electrical energy storage cell (3) which can be connected into an operating current circuit by means of a semiconductor switch (2), characterized in that the energy storage device (10) has an electrically isolated, inductive coupling device (5) for charging the energy storage cells (3).