Improved control device for voltage regulation of a power supply bus
530 - Abstract of the offer: |
The European Space Agency (ESA) presents an improved control device for voltage regulation of a power supply bus. This device eliminates a well-known drawback regarding voltage regulation of power supply buses where batteries are overcharged and damaged especially when the nominal battery of the battery is lower than the nominal voltage of the main bus. The organisation is seeking partners interested in licensing the technology. |
Description of the offer:
The present offer relates to an improved control device for voltage regulation of a power supply bus. This device eliminates a well-known drawback regarding voltage regulation of power supply buses where batteries are overcharged and damaged especially when the nominal battery of the battery is lower than the nominal voltage of the main bus.
The device involves a first switch adapted, when in a closed position, to connect an electrical energy
generator to an energy storage device, and a second switch adapted, when in a closed position, to shortcircuitthe generator. The generator is connected to the power supply bus if first and second switches are in an open position.
Innovations and advantages:
This technology does not allow a single failure to affect one of the tow control signals of the switches and it does not overcharge the battery, avoiding damages. This Serial Shunt Switching Regulator (S4R) principle is recognised to be efficient, lightweight and compact without the need of additional switches.
Furthermore, it reduces cost, with increased reliability.
Commercialisation aspects:
Applications and Markets
The technology may be applied in the field of power systems based on shunt regulation where energy storage shall be protected from overcharge, for instance photovoltaic, wind generators, tidal energy or vehicle electronics. In each of these applications, a special regulation must be done since the energy source is not controlled by the owner of the power installation and it must be disconnected under some conditions to avoid overcharging the battery or energy storage.
Intellectual property status
Currently patented (France and USA) and looking for licensing agreements.