Development of remotely accessible battery laboratory exercise test rig

Background

The electrical power storage devices offer a fascinating range of possible applications nowadays. They are small and mobile and can either provide power or be charged as required. Batteries are therefore not only a fundamental part of mobile phones and laptops but also serve as an alternative or a supportive source of energy for cars, railways, and even ships. The possible applications for batteries are varied - just like the test requirements. Batteries must in the first place characterized to understand the performance characteristic, differences (advantages and disadvantages) of varies battery technologies and application specifics like withstanding extreme temperature fluctuations.

Thesis objectives

 The primary objective of this master’s thesis is to design, develop, and implement a remotely accessible battery testing laboratory, enabling real-time testing and analysis of various types of rechargeable batteries. The test rig will serve as a versatile platform for conducting performance evaluations of batteries, including charge/discharge cycles and efficiency assessments. It will also incorporate remote monitoring and control features to facilitate continuous data collection and analysis for battery research.

The specific objectives of this thesis are

• To perform a literature review on battery testing rigs, with a specific focus on training/educational applications and remotely accessible systems.

• To define relevant key design aspects and training capabilities of battery testing system (physical phenomena demonstration, battery charge/discharge characterization, techno-economic decision-making simulation/case studies, and others)

• To develop the design, schematics, and technical specifications of the test rig including energy storage system simulator, relevant measurement instruments and equipment.

• To select the necessary mechanical and electrical components: sensors and actuators.

• To participate in the assembly, testing, and calibration of the developed rig.

Main deliverables

• Final thesis report and presentation of the project.

• Design and technical specification of the test rig.

• Assembled and validated test rig.

• Draft of training/learning media materials.

Duration

The project should start in Jan-Feb 2025, with a duration of up to 6 months.

Location

KTH, Department of Energy Technology

Main Supervisor

Examiner