Voltage Converter Topology for Energy Storage Loss Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Energy storage systems for alternative energies like solar and wind face inefficiencies due to unavoidable energy storage losses, as the timing of energy generation cannot be controlled, necessitating the development of systems that minimize these losses.
Innovation Solution
An energy storage system comprising a first voltage converter connected to a power grid, an intermediate circuit, and at least two additional voltage converters, with a controller to manage power flow direction, allowing energy transfer between energy stores and the grid, and between different energy stores within the system, thereby reducing losses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If energy is transferred from an energy store to another energy store through the first voltage converter connected to the power grid, then energy can be stored and made available, but copper losses and energy efficiency deteriorate due to the additional conversion path
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the voltage conversion function into multiple independent voltage converters (first, second, and third voltage converters) that can operate independently. This segmentation allows energy to be transferred between energy stores through direct connections (second and third voltage converters) without necessarily passing through the first voltage converter connected to the power grid, thereby reducing copper losses while maintaining system flexibility.
2Loss of energy
If the first voltage converter is used for all energy transfers, then system control is simplified, but energy efficiency deteriorates due to unnecessary energy conversion paths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of power flow directions in the voltage converters based on real-time system conditions. The controller can adaptively select whether energy transfers between energy stores should use the direct path (second and third voltage converters) or involve the first voltage converter, optimizing energy efficiency while maintaining operational simplicity through automated decision-making.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediate circuit that acts as a mediator between the voltage converters and energy stores. This intermediary structure enables flexible power flow routing, allowing energy to be transferred between energy stores through the second and third voltage converters without necessarily involving the first voltage converter, thus reducing energy losses while maintaining system coordination.
3Loss of energy
If energy is always transferred through the power grid connection, then grid integration is optimized, but system energy efficiency deteriorates due to unnecessary grid interaction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the voltage converters to perform multiple functions: the first voltage converter handles grid connection and energy transfer, while the second and third voltage converters can independently manage energy transfers between energy stores. This multi-functionality allows the system to operate in different modes (grid-connected, isolated, or hybrid) and select the most efficient energy transfer path based on current operating conditions, thereby reducing overall energy losses while maintaining operational versatility.
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 configuration enhances energy efficiency by enabling energy transfer within the system without using the first voltage converter, reducing copper losses, and optimizing energy distribution between energy stores and the grid, thereby minimizing overall energy losses.
Implementation Method 1
a first voltage converter (2) which can be connected to a single-phase or multiphase power grid (3)
Implementation Method 2
an intermediate circuit (4) to which a second and a third voltage converter (5, 6) are connected
Data Source
AI summary
An energy storage system including an energy store with a plurality of flow batteries, a first voltage converter, an intermediate circuit connected to the first voltage converter, a second voltage converter connected to the intermediate circuit and a first of the batteries, a third voltage converter connected to the intermediate circuit and a second of the batteries, and a controller connected to the first, second, and third voltage converters. The controller is configured to simultaneously control a power flow direction of the second voltage converter and a power flow direction of the third voltage converter such that the power flow direction of the second voltage controller is in an opposite direction of the power flow direction of the third voltage controller, to control a power flow direction of the first voltage controller, and to charge and discharge the batteries.