• Journal of Power Electronics
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• v.10 no.6
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• pp.769-776
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• 2010

The ultracapacitor module has recently been recast for use in hybrid energy storage systems (HESSs). As a result, accurate state-of-charge (SOC) estimation for an ultracapacitor module is as important as that of primary sources in order to be utilized efficiently in an energy storage system (ESS). However, while SOC estimation via the open-circuit voltage (OCV) method is generally used due to its linear characteristics compared with other ESSs, this method results in many errors in cases of highcurrent charging/discharging within a short time period. Accordingly, this paper introduces a dynamic SOC estimation algorithm that is capable of SOC compensation of an ultracapacitor module even when there is a current input and output. A cycle profile that simulates the operating conditions of a mild-HEV was applied to a vehicle simulator to verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.

• The Transactions of The Korean Institute of Electrical Engineers
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• v.56 no.10
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• pp.1763-1769
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• 2007

To improve the cycle-life and efficiency of an energy storage system for HEV, a dynamic control system consisted of a switch between a battery and an ultracapacitor module is proposed, which is appropriate for mild hybrid vehicle with 42V power net. The switch can be controlled based on the status of the battery and the ultracapacitor module, and a control algorithm that could largely decrease the number of high charging current peak is also implemented. Therefore the cycle life of the battery can be improved such that it is suitable for a mild hybrid vehicle with frequent engine start-stop and regenerative-braking. Also, by maximizing the use of the ultracapacitor, the system efficiency during high current charging and discharging operation is improved. Finally, this system has the effects that improves the efficiency of energy storage system and reduces the fuel consumption of a vehicle. To verify the validity of the proposed system, this paper presented cycles test results of different energy storage systems: a simple VRLA battery, hybrid energy Pack (HEP, a VRLA battery in Parallel with Ultracapacitor) and a HEP with a switch that controlled by energy management system (EMS). From the experimental result, it was proved the effectiveness of the algorithm.

• Clean Technology
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• v.27 no.4
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• pp.277-290
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• 2021

A supercapacitor, also called an ultracapacitor or an electrochemical capacitor, stores electrochemical energy by the adsorption/desorption of electrolytic ions or a fast and reversible redox reaction at the electrode surface, which is distinct from the chemical reaction of a battery. A supercapacitor features high specific power, high capacitance, almost infinite cyclability (~ 100,000 cycle), short charging time, good stability, low maintenance cost, and fast frequency response. Supercapacitors have been used in electronic devices to meet the requirements of rapid charging/discharging, such as for memory back-up, and uninterruptible power supply (UPS). Also, their use is being extended to transportation and large industry applications that require high power/energy density, such as for electric vehicles and power quality systems of smart grids. In power generation using intermittent power sources such as solar and wind, a supercapacitor is configured in the energy storage system together with a battery to compensate for the relatively slow charging/discharging time of the battery, to contribute to extending the lifecycle of the battery, and to improve the system power quality. This article provides a concise overview of the principles, mechanisms, and classification of energy storage of supercapacitors in accordance with the electrode materials. Also, it provides a review of the status of recent research and patent, product, and market trends in supercapacitor technology. There are many challenges to be solved to meet industrial demands such as for high voltage module technologies, high efficiency charging, safety, performance improvement, and competitive prices.