UPS Controller Optimizing Battery Utilization via Dynamic Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing UPS systems for communications systems often have battery arrays that are underutilized, leading to wasted resources, as they are designed to provide power only when utility power is absent or out of parameters, and the batteries are optimized for continuous charging and infrequent discharging, limiting their operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A UPS system comprising a battery system, an inverter, a transformer, and a controller that operates in multiple modes: charging during off-peak hours, supplying power to the load during normal conditions, and selling back to the utility during peak hours, using deep cycle batteries optimized for frequent charging and discharging, with the controller determining the most cost-effective mode based on battery life reduction and electricity price differences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If battery arrays are used only when utility power is absent or out of parameters, then the UPS system provides backup power protection, but the battery arrays are underutilized and represent wasted resources
Solution Approach 1:
The battery array is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides backup power during utility failures (traditional UPS function) and simultaneously serves as an energy storage system for economic discharging during peak pricing periods. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by making the battery array productive in both reliability protection and economic optimization roles.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If batteries are optimized for continuous charging and infrequent discharging, then the battery life is extended, but the operational efficiency and asset utilization are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts battery operation based on real-time conditions including utility power pricing signals, load requirements, and battery state of charge. The controller optimizes the balance between charging and discharging cycles, allowing frequent controlled discharging during peak pricing periods while maintaining sufficient charge for backup operations, thereby improving operational efficiency without excessive battery degradation.
3Loss of energy
If the inverter supplies power to the load during peak hours using battery power, then operational costs are reduced, but the battery life is reduced due to frequent charging and discharging cycles
Solution Approach 1:
The controller continuously monitors utility power pricing signals, battery state of charge, load requirements, and battery cycle history. It uses this feedback to make intelligent decisions about when to discharge battery power to the load, balancing the economic benefit of avoiding peak pricing against the degradation cost of additional charge-discharge cycles. The system adjusts its operation to discharge only when the economic benefit exceeds the battery life cost.
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
Optimizes the use of battery assets by charging during off-peak hours and selling back to the utility during peak hours, extending battery life and reducing operational costs, while ensuring reliable power supply to communications systems.
Implementation Method 1
a battery system (34) storing battery power
Implementation Method 2
an inverter (32) operatively connected to the battery system (34)
Implementation Method 3
a transformer (30) operatively connected to the AC line (22), the load (24), and an inverter winding (46) operatively connected to the inverter (32)
Data Source
AI summary
An uninterruptible power supply adapted to be connected between an AC line and a load, comprising a battery system, an inverter, and a transformer, and a controller. The battery system stores battery power. The inverter is operatively connected to the battery system. The transformer is operatively connected to the AC line, the load, and an inverter winding operatively connected to the inverter. The controller controls the inverter to supply power to the primary winding using battery power stored in the battery system based on a cost value indicative of reduction of life of the battery system.