Modular converter system for low-cost off-grid energy storage using second life Li-ion batteries

Lithium ion batteries are promising for small off- grid energy storage applications in developing countries because of their high energy density and long life. However, costs are prohibitive. Instead, we consider 'used' Li-ion batteries for this application, finding experimentally that many discarded laptop cells, for example, still have good capacity and cycle life. In order to make safe and optimal use of such cells, we present a modular power management system using a separate power converter for every cell. This novel approach allows individual batteries to be used to their full capacity. The power converters operate in voltage droop control mode to provide easy charge balancing and implement a battery management system to estimate the capacity of each cell, as we demonstrate experimentally.Comment: Presented at IEEE GHTC Oct 10-14, 2014, Silicon Valle

Modeling and Real-Time Scheduling of DC Platform Supply Vessel for Fuel Efficient Operation

DC marine architecture integrated with variable speed diesel generators (DGs) has garnered the attention of the researchers primarily because of its ability to deliver fuel efficient operation. This paper aims in modeling and to autonomously perform real-time load scheduling of dc platform supply vessel (PSV) with an objective to minimize specific fuel oil consumption (SFOC) for better fuel efficiency. Focus has been on the modeling of various components and control routines, which are envisaged to be an integral part of dc PSVs. Integration with photovoltaic-based energy storage system (ESS) has been considered as an option to cater for the short time load transients. In this context, this paper proposes a real-time transient simulation scheme, which comprises of optimized generation scheduling of generators and ESS using dc optimal power flow algorithm. This framework considers real dynamics of dc PSV during various marine operations with possible contingency scenarios, such as outage of generation systems, abrupt load changes, and unavailability of ESS. The proposed modeling and control routines with real-time transient simulation scheme have been validated utilizing the real-time marine simulation platform. The results indicate that the coordinated treatment of renewable based ESS with DGs operating with optimized speed yields better fuel savings. This has been observed in improved SFOC operating trajectory for critical marine missions. Furthermore, SFOC minimization at multiple suboptimal points with its treatment in the real-time marine system is also highlighted

A study on battery model parametrisation problem: application-oriented trade-offs between accuracy and simplicity

This study is focused on fast low-fidelity battery modelling for online applications. Because the battery parameters change due to variations of battery’s states, the model may need to be updated during operation. This can be achieved through the use of an online parameter identification technique, making use of online current-voltage measurements. The parametrisation algorithm’s speed is a crucial issue in such applications. This paper describes a study exploring the trade-offs between speed and accuracy, considering equivalent circuit models with different levels of complexity and different parameter-fitting algorithms. A visual investigation of the battery parametrisation problem is also proposed by obtaining battery model identification surfaces which help us to avoid unnecessary complexities. Three standard fitting algorithms are used to parametrise battery models using current-voltage measurements. For each level of complexity, the algorithms performances are evaluated using experimental data from a small NiMH battery pack. An application-oriented view on this trade-offs is discussed which demonstrates that the final target of the battery parametrisation problem can significantly affect the choice of the fitting algorithm and battery model structur

Electric vehicle battery parameter identification and SOC observability analysis: NiMH and Li-S case studies

In this study, a framework is proposed for battery model identification to be applied in electric vehicle energy storage systems. The main advantage of the proposed approach is having capability to handle different battery chemistries. Two case studies are investigated: nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), which is a mature battery technology, and Lithium-Sulphur (Li-S), a promising next-generation technology. Equivalent circuit battery model parametrisation is performed in both cases using the Prediction-Error Minimization (PEM) algorithm applied to experimental data. The use of identified parameters for battery state-of-charge (SOC) estimation is then discussed. It is demonstrated that the set of parameters needed can change with a different battery chemistry. In the case of NiMH, the battery’s open circuit voltage (OCV) is adequate for SOC estimation. However, Li-S battery SOC estimation can be challenging due to the chemistry’s unique features and the SOC cannot be estimated from the OCV-SOC curve alone because of its flat gradient. An observability analysis demonstrates that Li-S battery SOC is not observable using the common state-space representations in the literature. Finally, the problem’s solution is discussed using the proposed framework

A state-of-the-art review on torque distribution strategies aimed at enhancing energy efficiency for fully electric vehicles with independently actuated drivetrains

© 2019, Levrotto and Bella. All rights reserved. Electric vehicles are the future of private passenger transportation. However, there are still several technological barriers that hinder the large scale adoption of electric vehicles. In particular, their limited autonomy motivates studies on methods for improving the energy efficiency of electric vehicles so as to make them more attractive to the market. This paper provides a concise review on the current state-of-the-art of torque distribution strategies aimed at enhancing energy efficiency for fully electric vehicles with independently actuated drivetrains (FEVIADs). Starting from the operating principles, which include the "control allocation" problem, the peculiarities of each proposed solution are illustrated. All the existing techniques are categorized based on a selection of parameters deemed relevant to provide a comprehensive overview and understanding of the topic. Finally, future concerns and research perspectives for FEVIAD are discussed

Ancillary Services in Hybrid AC/DC Low Voltage Distribution Networks

In the last decade, distribution systems are experiencing a drastic transformation with the advent of new technologies. In fact, distribution networks are no longer passive systems, considering the current integration rates of new agents such as distributed generation, electrical vehicles and energy storage, which are greatly influencing the way these systems are operated. In addition, the intrinsic DC nature of these components, interfaced to the AC system through power electronics converters, is unlocking the possibility for new distribution topologies based on AC/DC networks. This paper analyzes the evolution of AC distribution systems, the advantages of AC/DC hybrid arrangements and the active role that the new distributed agents may play in the upcoming decarbonized paradigm by providing different ancillary services.Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad ENE2017-84813-RUnión Europea (Programa Horizonte 2020) 76409