Parallel Intermixing of Lithium-Ion 6T Batteries with Dissimilar Chemistries

This Phase II proposal will design, build, and test prototype controllers and their electronics that can extend the life cycle of paralleled Lithium-ion 6T batteries. The controllers balance the stress factors that influence the aging disparity among the paralleled batteries. As a result, lifespan is optimized as compared to the standard baseline approach of directly paralleling the batteries without the stress balancer controllers. Phase I results demonstrated through simulation models that the Galley Power stress balancer controllers improve lifespan > 5% when similar chemistries are paralleled and > 10% for dissimilar paralleled Lithium-ion 6T battery packs. A unique approach for the stress management approach relies on Galley Power’s management strategy that balances the stress both local and system level, even though the batteries are in parallel. Therefore, the controllers can be low profile to fit into 6T battery. Phase II research will integrate these small stress balancer control electronics within the Lithium-ion 6T battery itself. The controllers will be tested and compared with the baseline paralleled batteries with no controllers to demonstrate the Phase I lifespan improvements in the experimental prototypes, while maintain existing 6T battery safety requirements.