Control Strategy for EDLC(super/ultra capacitor)

Thesis
- When used as power backup in industrial embedded systems

Do you have a interest in embedded systems and component physics? Are you interested in using you theoretical knowledge in real life?

Task
The objective of this thesis is to derive a suitable control strategy for maximizing the lifetime of an EDLC sub-system used as power back-up in an embedded application. The objective will be achieved by a method for adjusting the charge voltage on the degraded capacitance and reactance value at that time and the required energy level. Based on a detailed analysis of the performance degradation of the EDLC an approach enabling charge optimization is to be developed. Possibly, the control strategy will be applied to an available product design for concept verification & validation. Location is in Malmö.

Structure of work
1) Setup a test environment in order to characterize EDLC aging
2) Derive a control strategy for EDLC
3) Design and build hardware containing EDLC pack, micro controller and sensors
4) Write code for micro controller that controls and supervise the EDLC pack

Background
Electrochemical double layer capacitors (EDLCs), also known as ultra capacitors or super capacitors are often used as energy storage devices in electronic circuits. For example EDLCs may be used as a power back-up in a system. A problem with EDLCs is that they have a limited lifetime in that the capacitance and conductance decrease due to electrochemical reactions.

The limited lifetime of the EDLCs is particularly problematic when the EDLCs are used in applications with requirements on long product lifetimes. The aging of the EDLCs is influenced by temperature and voltage. Increasing the voltage and temperature will exponentially accelerate the electrochemical reactions and thus leading to a decrease in capacitance and conductance.

Applicant profile
Knowledge in hardware and software for embedded systems and interest in component physics.

What can we offer you?
We offer you an opportunity to do your thesis in an international market leading company with good profitability. You will get the chance to use your theoretical knowledge in reality.

Supervisors
For more information about the position please contact, Fredrik Göth, Senior Hardware Developer, phone +46 76 836 26 56.

Application
Our wish is that the thesis will begin in autumn 2013. Deadline is July 7.

We process applications running and encourage you to register your interest as soon as possible.

Please apply trough our website.


Schneider Electric is a global specialist in energy management with more than 140,000 employees and operations in more than 100 countries. The company has a strong focus on energy efficiency and offer integrated solutions for industrial automation, security, building automation, uninterruptible power supply, power distribution and electrical installation. Schneider Electric is listed on the French the stock market in Paris and in 2012; sales reached to 24 billion Euros. In Sweden, the Group employs almost 2,000 people. Read more at: www.schneider-electric.com/se