Battery System Optimization Using Format Flexible Pouch Cells – Literature Review and Research Methodology

Abstract

The development of battery systems using pouch cells is a complex process due to the various system levels and domains to be considered as well as multiple design options such as cell to pack or cell to module designs. Among other things, a combined consideration of the electrical and thermal properties of the system is required in addition to the selection of suitable cells. Also, the packaging of the cells and modules in an existing installation space is a challenge that often represents a limiting factor in the performance of the battery system. Battery cells that can be produced in a flexible format offer potential for better use of existing installation spaces. However, these new degrees of freedom in the design of the battery system also represent an increased complexity and a larger solution space. To handle this complexity, new methods and tools are therefore required to support the developer. Therefore, this paper includes a literature review showing current approaches in battery system development and optimization with special focus on pouch cells. From this, the authors form the hypothesis that battery systems can be further optimized using pouch cells produced in a flexible format and according research questions. Finally, the paper describes a research methodology to answer these questions including the analysis of the state-of-art in battery system optimization, development of an optimization tool and case studies for evaluation of the approach.