The X-Verter® is a next generation battery architecture with a unique switching technology for ultra efficient voltage conversion.
Conventional systems and their weaknesses
Conventional BESS relies on power converters using pulse-width-modulation (PWM) for DC to AC transformation, resulting in deadtime and switching losses. These systems have a narrow ‘peak efficiency’ range, typically between 90-95%. Beyond this range, efficiency can drop by up to 50%.
State-of-the-art modular multilevel converter (MMC) technology similarly employs PWM, dissipating energy as heat and incurring losses during switching. This technology’s use of H-bridges to control current flow complicates circuit design, increases power losses, and generates harmonics and electromagnetic interference (EMI).
Eliminating power converters and losses
Our solution, utilizing a patented switching regime, practically eliminates those conversion losses. By activating or deactivating battery modules in real-time, the X-Verter® creates the desired current and voltage levels, aligning with grid compliant AC curves without external power converters. This innovation yields extremely low conversion losses, ensuring high efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and continuous, adaptable power output across a diverse range of loads.
From dependency of the weakest cell…
Conventional battery cells are connected in series and parallel configurations organized in fixed strings, which are groups of cells connected to form a larger unit. The battery cell topology is hardwired to meet pre-determined in- and output requirements. If a single cell within the string fails, ages or is defect, it can impact the entire string’s performance which affects the overall system performance andefficiency. Other disadvantages of string-connected battery cells include limited fault isolation, voltage mismatch among cells, scalability challenges, safety risks, performance degradation, and complexity in monitoring and control.
… to unlocking the battery’s full potential
Transitioning from fixed hardwired connections, the X-Verter® employs dynamic cell configurations, ensuring each cell operates optimally in terms of charge and health. This optimization significantly enhances the BESS’s performance and lifespan, preventing one cell’s limitations from affecting the entire string. Cell balancing is inherent in the X-Verter®, enabling dynamic allocation of duty cycles through software. This feature avoids performance restrictions caused by individual cell limitations, ensuring optimal usable energy or extended cell life.
Moreover, the X-Verter® enhances safety and reliability through fault tolerance. By isolating defective cells, it mitigates damage or fire risks, allowing the system to function with reduced capacity even if one or more cells fail. This design significantly improves the BESS’s reliability, enabling continued operation in the presence of defective cells.
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