Electric Double-Layer Capacitor Module with Series-Parallel Reconfigurable Cell Voltage Equalizers

Abstract

When electric double-layer capacitors (EDLCs) are connected in series, cell voltage imbalance that results due to non-uniform cell properties is observed. Cell voltage imbalance should be minimized to prolong cycle lives and maximize the available energy of cells. In this study, we propose a series-parallel reconfigurable cell voltage equalizer that is considered suitable for energy-storage systems using EDLCs instead of traditional secondary batteries as main energy-storage sources. The proposed equalizer requires only EDLCs and switches as its main circuit elements, and it utilizes EDLCs not only for energy storage but also for equalization. An equivalent circuit model using equivalent resistors that can be regarded as an index of equalization speed is developed. Current distribution and cell voltage imbalance during operation are quantitatively generalized. Experimental charge-discharge tests were performed for EDLC modules to demonstrate the performance of the cell voltage equalizer. All the cells in the modules could be charged/discharged uniformly even when a degradation-mimicking cell was intentionally included in the module. The resultant cell voltage imbalances and current distributions were in good agreement with those predicted by mathematical analyses.