WO2020091721A1

WO2020091721A1 - Energy storage array including transportable storage container having connector channel

Info

Publication number: WO2020091721A1
Application number: PCT/US2018/057940
Authority: WO
Inventors: Philip Michael Cioffi; Charles Erklin Seeley
Original assignee: General Electric Co
Current assignee: General Electric Co
Priority date: 2018-10-29
Filing date: 2018-10-29
Publication date: 2020-05-07
Anticipated expiration: 2021-04-29

Abstract

An energy storage array includes a first transportable storage container including a first housing mountable to a transportation device and defining a first interior space. A first energy storage system is positioned within the first interior space and includes a first battery rack and a plurality of first battery modules. The energy storage array further includes a second transportable storage container including a second housing mountable to the transportation device. The second housing defines a second interior space and at least partly defines at least one channel. A second energy storage system is positioned within the second interior space and includes a second battery rack and a plurality of second battery modules. The energy storage array further includes at least one connector operatively coupled to the first energy storage system. The at least one connector is at least partially positioned within the at least one channel.

Description

ENERGY STORAGE ARRAY INCLUDING

TRANSPORTABLE STORAGE CONTAINER HAVING CONNECTOR CHANNEL

BACKGROUND

[0001] The subject matter described herein relates generally to energy storage arrays and, more particularly, to energy storage arrays including at least one transportable storage container having a connector channel.

[0002] Transportable storage containers are used to transport a variety of goods between multiple locations. Storage containers are transported from a starting location to a destination by transportation devices such as trucks, railcars, forklifts, cranes, and ships. Some transportable storage containers are used to transport and house energy storage systems. Such systems are used to store and provide energy in a variety of settings including industrial applications. Some known energy storage systems utilize a plurality of battery modules housed within a storage container to store and provide energy. In the energy storage market, it is advantageous to fill the storage container with as many battery modules as possible to achieve a greater energy capacity of the energy storage system.

[0003] Sometimes energy storage systems are connected together to form an energy storage array. For example, transportable storage containers are transported to a site and connected together to form the energy storage array. Connectors extend around and between the transportable storage containers to provide power to and from the energy storage systems and to allow communication between the energy storage systems and exterior systems. Sometimes the connectors are buried underground prior to installation of the transportable storage containers. However, each underground connector must be precisely laid out relative to the transportable storage containers prior to installation of the containers which delays installation of the transportable storage containers and adds cost to the project. BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0004] In one aspect, an energy storage array is provided. The energy storage array includes a first transportable storage container and a second transportable storage container. The first transportable storage container includes a first housing mountable to a transportation device. The first housing includes a floor, a ceiling, and at least one side wall collectively defining a first interior space. The first transportable storage container also includes a first energy storage system positioned within the first interior space of the first housing. The first energy storage system includes a first battery rack and a plurality of first battery modules. The second transportable storage container includes a second housing mountable to a transportation device. The second housing includes a floor, a ceiling, and at least one side wall collectively defining a second interior space. The second housing at least partly defines at least one channel. The second transportable storage container also includes a second energy storage system positioned within the second interior space of the second housing. The second energy storage system includes a second battery rack and a plurality of second battery modules. The energy storage array further includes at least one connector operatively coupled to the first energy storage system. The at least one connector is at least partially positioned within the at least one channel of the second transportable storage container.

[0005] In another aspect, a transportable storage container is provided. The transportable storage container includes a housing mountable to a transportation device. The housing includes a first end, a second end, a floor, a ceiling, and at least one side wall. The floor, the ceiling, and the at least one side wall collectively define an interior space. The housing at least partly defines at least one channel extending longitudinally along the floor from the first end of the housing to the second end of the housing. The transportable storage container also includes an energy storage system including a battery rack and a plurality of battery modules positioned within the interior space of the housing. The transportable storage container further includes at least one connector operatively coupleable to a power device. The at least one connector is at least partially positioned within the at least one channel. [0006] In yet another aspect, a method of assembling an energy storage array is provided. The method includes placing a first transportable storage container at a site. The first transportable storage container includes an energy storage system. The method further includes extending a first plurality of connectors from the first transportable storage container to a power device and placing a second transportable storage container between the first transportable storage container and the power device. At least one connector of the first plurality of connectors extends from the first transportable storage container through a channel in the second transportable storage container to the power device. The method also includes connecting at least one other connector of the first plurality of connectors to the second transportable storage container.

DRAWINGS

[0007] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

[0008] FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view of an exemplary energy storage array including a plurality of transportable storage containers;

[0009] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of the energy storage array shown in FIG. 1 with a portion of a transportable storage container removed to show an energy storage system within the transportable storage container;

[0010] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the transportable storage container shown in FIG. 2 with a ceiling plate removed;

[0011] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a portion of the transportable storage container shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, that includes a connector channel;

[0012] FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view of the connector channel of the transportable storage container shown in FIGS. 2-4;

[0013] FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of an alternative connector channel of the transportable storage container shown in FIGS. 2-4; [0014] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a portion of a transportable storage container that includes a conduit;

[0015] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a portion of a transportable storage container that includes an alternative conduit system.

[0016] Unless otherwise indicated, the drawings provided herein are meant to illustrate features of embodiments of the disclosure. These features are believed to be applicable in a wide variety of systems comprising one or more embodiments of the disclosure. As such, the drawings are not meant to include all conventional features known by those of ordinary skill in the art to be required for the practice of the embodiments disclosed herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] In the following specification and the claims, reference will be made to a number of terms, which shall be defined to have the following meanings.

[0018] The singular forms“a”,“an”, and“the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0019] “Optional” or“optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where the event occurs and instances where it does not.

[0020] Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as “about,” “substantially,” and“approximately,” are not to be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. Here and throughout the specification and claims, range limitations may be combined and/or interchanged, such ranges are identified and include all the sub-ranges contained therein unless context or language indicates otherwise. [0021] The systems and methods described herein include at least one transportable storage container and an energy storage system housed within the transportable storage container. Each transportable storage container includes a housing that can be mounted on a transportation device such as a truck, a railcar, a forklift, a crane, and/or a ship. In some embodiments, a plurality of the transportable storage containers are assembled together at a site and the energy storage systems housed within the transportable storage containers are operatively connected together to form an energy storage array. At least one of the transportable storage containers includes a channel in which a connector is at least partially positioned. The connector allows the energy storage system housed within the transportable storage container to receive and/or send primary power, auxiliary power, and/or communication signals. The channel extends along at least one of a wall, a ceiling, and a floor of the transportable storage container. The connector extends within the channel from a first end to a second end of the container. In some embodiments, a plurality of connectors are preinstalled within the at least one channel prior to delivery of the transportable storage containers to the installation site. As a result, the transportable storage containers having at least one channel simplify installation of the energy storage array and increase the aesthetic appeal of the energy storage array.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view of an exemplary energy storage array 100 including a plurality of transportable storage containers 102. Energy storage array 100 further includes at least one electrical power inverter 104. In the exemplary embodiment, energy storage array 100 includes sixteen transportable storage containers 102 and two electrical power inverters 104. Electrical power inverters 104 are positioned substantially in the longitudinal center of energy storage array 100 relative to a longitudinal axis 106. In the exemplary embodiment, transportable storage containers 102 are positioned in longitudinal rows and four transportable storage containers 102 are positioned on each longitudinal end of the electrical power inverters 104 positioned in the center of each row. In alternative embodiments, energy storage array 100 includes any number of transportable storage containers 102 and/or electrical power inverters 104 arranged in any manner that enable energy storage array 100 to operate as described herein.

[0023] In the exemplary embodiment, each transportable storage container 102 is spaced from an adjacent transportable storage container 102 or electrical power inverter 104 in the same row by a gap 108. Gap 108 provides clearance between transportable storage containers 102 and/or power inverters 104 to allow access to and movement of transportable storage containers 102. In addition, gap 108 is configured to reduce the distance that one or more connectors 110 extend between transportable storage containers 102. For example, in some embodiments, gap 108 is in a range of about 0.5 meters (m) to about 3 m. Moreover, in some embodiments, a ratio of gap 108 to a longitudinal length of each transportable storage container 102 is in a range of about 0.05 to about 0.50. In alternative embodiments, transportable storage containers 102 and/or electrical power inverters 104 are spaced apart any distance that enables energy storage array 100 to operate as described herein.

[0024] Also, in the exemplary embodiment, energy storage array 100 includes connectors 110 coupled to transportable storage containers 102 and/or electrical power devices, such as electrical power inverters 104, solar arrays, wind arrays and other power utilization and/or generation devices. Connectors 110 include, without limitation, cables, bus bars, conductive wires, fiber-optics, and/or any other suitable connectors. Connectors 110 are utilized to transport one or more of the following: power from a power producing array such as a solar or wind farm, power to an electrical power inverter, auxiliary power to components within transportable storage container 102, and communication signals. In the exemplary embodiment, at least some connectors 110 extend from each transportable storage container 102 to one of electrical power inverters 104 and are positioned within channels 112 in transportable storage containers 102. Specifically, connectors 110 extend from a respective transportable storage container 102 to electrical power inverter 104 through channels 112 positioned between the transportable storage container 102 and electrical power inverter 104. For example, connectors 110 from a first transportable storage container 114 extend through respective channels 112 of a second transportable storage container 116, a third transportable storage container 118, and a fourth transportable storage container 120. Accordingly, connectors 110 are able to extend from first transportable storage container 114 to electrical power inverter 104 within channels 112 without being substantially exposed on the exterior of transportable storage containers 102. In addition, channels 112 and connectors 110 do not require extensive on site setup. In some embodiments, connectors 110 are positioned within channels 112 prior to installation of transportable storage containers 102 at an installation site. In such embodiments, connectors 110 are stored within transportable storage container 102 and are shipped with transportable storage container 102 so they can be coupled to power inverter 104 as well as power utilization and/or generation devices such as solar arrays and wind arrays at the site. In some embodiments, connectors 110 have a length that is greater than a determined distance between electrical power inverter 104 and the respective transportable storage container 102. For example, in some embodiments, the length of connector 110 is greater than a total length of the number of transportable storage container(s) 102 positioned between the respective transportable storage container 102 and electrical power inverter 104. Accordingly, transportable storage containers 102 are set in position at the site and connectors 110 extended from channels 112 to a desired connection point during assembly of energy storage array 100.

[0025] In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, connectors 110 include at least one of a bus bar and/or a cable. Accordingly, connectors 110 are configured to allow transportable storage containers 102 to send and/or receive electrical power and/or communicate with external devices. In the exemplary embodiment, connectors 110 conduct direct current (DC) electrical power. Power inverter 104 converts the DC electrical power to alternating current (AC) electrical power. In alternative embodiments, energy storage array 100 includes any number of connectors 110 that enable energy storage array 100 to operate as described herein.

[0026] Also, in some embodiments, transportable storage containers 102 and/or power inverter 104 are coupled in a chain by connectors 110. For example, in some embodiments, first transportable storage container 114 is coupled to second transportable storage container 116, second transportable storage container 116 is coupled to third transportable storage container 118, third transportable storage container 118 is coupled to fourth transportable storage container 120, and fourth transportable storage container 120 is coupled to power inverter 104 by connectors 110. In some embodiments, a single connector 110 extends between each pair of adjacent transportable storage containers 102 and/or between a transportable storage container 102 and power inverter 104. In such embodiments, connectors 110 are arranged internally within each transportable storage container 102 to allow for a single point of connection from the exterior of transportable storage container 102 to adjacent transportable storage containers 102 and/or to power inverter 104, power generation devices, and/or power utilization devices. In alternative embodiments, transportable storage containers 102 and/or power inverter 104 are coupled in any manner that enables energy storage array 100 to operate as described herein.

[0027] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of energy storage array 100 with a portion of one transportable storage container 102 removed to show an energy storage system 122 within transportable storage container 102. In the exemplary embodiment, each transportable storage container 102 includes a housing 124 having a floor 126, a ceiling 128, and a plurality of side walls 130. Housing 124 is mountable to a transportation device to allow for transportation of transportable storage container 102. Housing 124 may be made of steel or other suitable materials. Ceiling 128 includes a ceiling plate 132 having an interior face 134 and an exterior face 136. Each side wall 130 includes an interior face 138 and an exterior face 140. In some embodiments, side wall 130 also includes one or more doors 142 for accessing the interior of housing 124. Housing 124 includes vertical posts 144 that are coupled to floor 126, ceiling 128, and side walls 130. In the exemplary embodiment, floor 126, ceiling 128, and side walls 130 form a generally cuboid and/or box configuration. In some embodiments, vertical posts 144 include interlocking assemblies 146 positioned on upper and/or lower ends of vertical posts 144. In some embodiments, interlocking assemblies 146 are configured to interface with interlocking assemblies of standardized shipping containers such as intermodal or ISO shipping containers. Interlocking assemblies 146 are configured to interlock a plurality of transportable storage containers 102 and/or interlock transportable storage container 102 with one or more various shipping containers during transport. In some embodiments, the dimensions of housing 124 comply with at least some standardized ISO shipping container dimension requirements. In the exemplary embodiment, the dimensions of housing 124 comply with at least some of the dimension requirements of a standardized twenty foot ISO shipping container. In some embodiments, floor 126 includes forklift pockets 148 that are generally rectangular in shape and configured to receive forks of a forklift. Forklift pockets 148 allow for placement and/or movement of transportable storage container 102 by the forklift.

[0028] In the exemplary embodiment, floor 126, ceiling 128, and side walls 130 collectively define an interior space 150 configured to receive goods. Transportable storage container 102 is used to transport one or more goods, also referred to as transportation products 152, from a first location to a second location. In the exemplary embodiment, transportation products 152 are able to be accessed through door 142 of side wall 130. In the exemplary embodiment, transportation products 152 are an energy storage system 122 including one or more battery racks 154 and a plurality of battery modules 156.

[0029] FIG. 3 is an exemplary transportable storage container 102 with ceiling plate 132 (shown in FIG. 2) removed. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an interior portion of transportable storage container 102, that includes at least one connector channel 112. Transportable storage container 102 includes a first end 158, a second end 160, a first side 162, and a second side 164. In the exemplary embodiment, transportable storage container 102 includes power electronics (not shown) positioned adjacent second end 160 of transportable storage container 102. The power electronics are operatively coupled to energy storage system 122 and are configured to enable charging and discharging of battery modules 156 (shown in FIG. 2) of energy storage system 122. In some embodiments, door 142 is positioned adjacent the power electronics to facilitate access to the power electronics. In other embodiments, door 142 is positioned on side wall 130 near second end 160 of transportable storage container 102. Alternatively, the power electronics are positioned in any orientation and manner that enables transportable storage container 102 to function as described herein.

[0030] In the exemplary embodiment, transportable storage container 102 includes an HVAC system 166 having a first unit 167 and a second unit 168. HVAC system 166 includes a plurality of ducts and/or air flow passages for heating and/or cooling transportable storage container 102. In one embodiment, the air flow passages are positioned between energy storage system 122 and ceiling 128 and function as a return for HVAC system 166. Ceiling 128 of transportable storage container 102 includes a plurality of beams 170 that are laterally spaced and extend between first side 162 and second side 164 of transportable storage container 102. Beams 170 are coupled to interior face 134 of ceiling plate 132 (shown in FIG. 2) and are configured to provide structural support for transportable storage container 102. Ceiling 128 of housing 124 also includes end rails 172 and longitudinal beams 174. Beams 170 extend between and are coupled to longitudinal beams 174, and are positioned substantially parallel to end rails 172. Ceiling 128 also includes a central beam 176 that extends between end rails 172. In one embodiment, central beam 176 is positioned substantially parallel to longitudinal beams 174 and is coupled to interior face 134 of ceiling plate 132 (shown in FIG. 2) as well as beams 170. [0031] Also, in the exemplary embodiment, floor 126 of housing 124 includes a floor plate 178 having an interior face 180 and an exterior face 182. Floor plate 178 at least partially defines housing 124. Floor 126 also includes floor end rails 184 and floor longitudinal beams 186. In the exemplary embodiment, housing 124 includes a plurality of floor cross beams 188 which are laterally spaced and positioned substantially parallel to floor end rails 184. Floor cross beams 188 are coupled to interior face 180 of floor plate 178. In one embodiment, floor 126 includes a central beam 190 that extends the longitudinal length of housing 124, i.e., from first end 158 to second end 160 of housing 124. In the exemplary embodiment, central beam 190 forms channel 112, is coupled to interior face 134 of floor plate 178 and extends between floor end rails 184. Floor cross beams 188 extend between and are coupled to floor longitudinal beams 186 and central beam 190. In some embodiments, floor 126 does not include central beam 190. In those embodiments, each floor cross beam 188 extends laterally between and is connected to floor longitudinal beams 186 such that each floor cross beam 188 extends between first side 162 and second side 164 of housing 124. Alternatively, floor cross beams 188 and central beam 190 are positioned in any orientation and manner that enables transportable storage container 102 to function as described herein.

[0032] In some embodiments, housing 124 includes a plurality of columns (not shown) coupled to interior face 138 of side wall 130. The columns extend between ceiling longitudinal beams 174 and floor longitudinal beams 186 and between ceiling end rails 172 and floor end rails 184. The columns are configured to provide support for housing 124 and to increase rigidity of housing 124. In alternative embodiments, housing 124 does not include a plurality of columns, and side walls 130 include a corrugated profile to provide support for and increase rigidity of housing 124.

[0033] In the exemplary embodiment, channel 112 extends continuously through transportable storage container 102 from first end 158 to second end 160. Additionally, connectors 110 are positioned within channel 112 such that connectors 110 extend the entire length of transportable storage container 102 from first end 158 to second end 160. For example, connectors 110 extend from an adjacent transportable storage container (not shown) into channel 112 through an opening 159 positioned at first end 158, through channel 112, and out opening 159 positioned at second end 160. In some embodiments, connectors 110 from transportable storage container 102 extend from interior space 150 into channel 112 at first end 158 or a position intermediate first end 158 and second end 160. In some embodiments, an extended channel structure (not shown) extends outward from transportable storage container 102 at first end 158 and/or second end 160 to extend channel 112 between transportable storage containers 102. In alternative embodiments, connectors 110 are positioned in channel 112 in any manner that enables transportable storage container 102 to function as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, channel 112 and connectors 110 positioned therein extend from first side 162 to second side 164 of transportable storage container 102.

[0034] Also, in the exemplary embodiment, ceiling end rails 172, floor end rails 184, ceiling longitudinal beams 174, and floor longitudinal beams 186 are coupled to vertical posts 144 to form a generally cuboid configuration. Ceiling end rails 172 and floor end rails 184 are positioned at first end 158 and second end 160 of housing 124 and ceiling longitudinal beams 174 and floor longitudinal beams 186 are positioned at first side 162 and second side 164 of housing 124.

[0035] In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, transportable storage container 102 is used to transport energy storage system 122 from a first location to a second location. In the exemplary embodiment, the first location is an assembly location and the second location is a use location. At the use location, energy storage system 122 of the transportable storage container 102 is placed in an operational state such that energy storage system 122 is operable in energy storage array 100 (shown in FIG. 1) to receive energy from one or more power generation devices at the use location and/or provide stored energy to power utilization devices. In alternative embodiments, the first location is a prior use location.

[0036] In some embodiments, housing 124 additionally includes insulation to help maintain a desired temperature within transportable storage container 102. Insulation is applied to the interior of housing 124 (e.g., interior face 180 of floor plate 178, interior face 134 of ceiling plate 132 (shown in FIG. 2), and/or interior face 138 of side wall 130 (shown in FIG. 2)) and/or the exterior of housing 124 (e.g., exterior face 182 of floor plate 178, exterior face 136 of ceiling plate 132 (shown in FIG. 1), and/or exterior face 140 of side wall 130 (shown in FIG. 1)). In some embodiments, housing 124 includes insulation positioned between each adjacent floor cross beam 188 and on interior face 180 of floor plate 178. Various types of insulation may be used in transportable storage container 102 such as spray foam insulation, fiber glass insulation, and/or other types of insulation that allow transportable storage container 102 to function as described herein.

[0037] Energy storage system 122 includes at least one battery module 156 coupled to and received in one or more battery racks 154. Battery module 156 may be a lithium ion battery or any other suitable battery that enables transportable storage container 102 to function as described herein. In the exemplary embodiment, each battery rack 154 includes one or more upright panels 192 and a plurality of supports 194, also referred to as battery shelves, extending perpendicularly from upright panels 192. In the exemplary embodiment, supports 194 are generally L-shaped. Upright panels 192 may be substantially planar, substantially corrugated, and/or any other configuration that enables energy storage system 122 to function as described herein.

[0038] Battery rack 154 includes a plurality of compartments 196 for receiving battery modules 156. In the exemplary embodiment, each compartment 196 receives one or more battery modules 156. Upright panels 192 and supports 194 at least partially define compartments 196. In some embodiments, battery modules 156 rest on supports 194. In alternative embodiments, battery modules 156 are suspended from supports 194. Battery modules 156 are coupled to supports 194 through contact, friction fit, snap fit, and/or fasteners. In some embodiments, battery modules 156 include a notch, and each compartment 196 of battery rack 154 includes a latch so that the latch may snap into and/or engage with the notch of battery modules 156 to secure battery modules 156 within compartment 196. Alternatively, battery modules 156 and battery rack 154 are positioned in any orientation and manner that enables energy storage system 122 to function as described herein.

[0039] When loaded with battery modules 156, each battery rack 154 creates a column of battery modules 156. In the exemplary embodiment, two columns of battery modules 156 are positioned on battery rack 154. In other embodiments, each battery rack 154 is loaded with any number of columns of battery modules 156 that enables transportable storage container 102 to function as described herein. Battery modules 156 of energy storage system 122 are operatively connected to the power electronics (not shown). In one embodiment, the power electronics are connected to battery modules 156 by one or more cables that pass through a plurality of openings (not shown) in battery rack 154. In the exemplary embodiment, the openings are positioned on a rear upright panel of battery rack 154. Alternatively, the openings are positioned in any orientation and manner that enables transportable storage container 102 to function as described herein.

[0040] In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, battery racks 154 are positioned to facilitate access of compartments 196 from first side 162 and/or second side 164. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3, transportable storage container 102 includes doors 142 positioned on first side 162 and second side 164 to allow access to compartments 196 of battery racks 154. In the exemplary embodiment, battery racks 154 are positioned such that an upright panel of one battery rack 154 is adjacent an upright panel of a second battery rack 154 to form a longitudinal row. Additionally, a rear upright panel of one battery rack 154 is adjacent a rear upright panel of a second battery rack 154 to form two longitudinal rows. The two longitudinal rows of battery racks 154 are positioned substantially parallel to floor longitudinal beams 186 and central beam 190. In the exemplary embodiment, central beam 190 and, thus, channel 112 extend between the rows of battery racks 154. Alternatively, battery racks 154 are positioned in any orientation and manner that enables transportable storage container 102 to function as described herein.

[0041] FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view of connector channel 112 of transportable storage container 102. Channel 112 extends along at least one of floor 126, ceiling 128 (shown in FIG. 2), and side walls 130 (shown in FIG. 2). In the exemplary embodiment, channel 112 is positioned within interior space 150 of storage container 102. In addition, channel 112 is sized to receive at least one connector 110 therein. In one embodiment, channel 112 receives a plurality of connectors 110 therein. In particular, transportable storage container 102 includes a single channel 112 configured to receive all connectors 110 from the respective transportable storage container 102 and/or from other transportable storage containers 102. For example, in some embodiments, channel 112 is able to accommodate at least thirty connectors 110. In alternative embodiments, transportable storage container 102 includes a plurality of channels 112. In the exemplary embodiment, connectors 110 and channel 112 are sized based at least in part on the standard sizing requirements for electrical wiring and equipment that is applicable for the site (e.g., the National Electric Code (NEC)). In alternative embodiments, transportable storage container 102 includes any number of channels 112 that enable transportable storage container 102 to function as described herein.

[0042] FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of an alternative connector channel 112. In this embodiment, connector channel 112 has an open bottom, a pair of sides and a top such that an inverted trench is formed. During array assembly, storage container 102 is positioned over the connectors, which are positioned on top of the ground, such that the connectors fit within connector channel 112. In one embodiment, connector channel 112 extends along a longitudinal centerline of floor 126. In other alternative embodiments, connector channel 112 is positioned in any manner that allows transportable storage container 102 to function as described herein.

[0043] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a portion of transportable storage container 102 that includes a conduit system 200 for use in energy storage array 100 (shown in FIG. 1). In the exemplary embodiment, conduit system 200 includes a plate 202 that defines a channel 204 through which connectors 110 (shown in FIG. 5) extend. Plate 202 forms a portion of an end of transportable storage container 102 and facilitates easy access to channel 204. Channel 204 extends a length of transportable storage container 102. In alternative embodiments, channel 204 extends less than a length of transportable storage container 102. In some embodiments, dividers (not shown) separate channel 204 into sub-channels and prevent connectors 110 from contacting each other. In further embodiments, conduit system 200 includes a plurality of distinct channels 204. Channel 204 is sized to receive at least one connector 110. Plate 202 also includes a fitting 206 that extends perpendicularly from a channel (not shown) extending longitudinally at least partially through transportable storage container 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the channel does not extend through a front end of plate 202. Rather, the channel ends at fitting 206 which connects with piping or ducting within transportable storage container 102 such that connectors extend from inside transportable storage container 102 through the channel to an outside of transportable storage container 102. Connectors 110 include, without limitation, cables, bus bars, conductive wires, fiber-optics, and/or any other suitable connectors and are utilized to transport one or more of the following: power from a power producing array such as a solar or wind farm, power to an inverter, auxiliary power to components within transportable storage container 102 and communications. In alternative embodiments, plate 202 includes a plurality of channels 204 and/or fittings 206. [0044] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a portion of transportable storage container 102 that includes an alternative conduit system 300 for use in energy storage array 100 (shown in FIG. 1). As illustrated in FIG. 8, conduit system 300 is similar to conduit system 200 (shown in FIG. 7) except that conduit system 300 includes an external segment 302 attached to an external portion 304 of side wall 130 of transportable storage container 102. In one embodiment, external segment 302 is a duct with channels 306 extending along a length thereof. External segment 302 has a first end 308 and a second end (not shown). First end 308 includes an opening 310 for each channel 306 extending through external segment 302 and the second end also includes an opening (not shown) for each channel 306 extending through external segment 302. In one embodiment, conduit system 300 includes two or more external segments 302 positioned on the same side wall 130 or on opposite side walls 130 of transportable storage container 102.

[0045] After transportable storage container 102 is positioned in energy storage array 100, external segment 302 is attached to transportable storage container 102 with a contact fit, friction fit, snap fit and/or fasteners such as twistlocks, bolts, and/or other attachment devices. External segment 302 is attached to transportable storage container 102 along external portion 304 of sidewall 130 of transportable storage container 102 and can be located at a top, a bottom or elsewhere along side wall 130.

[0046] In the exemplary embodiment, energy storage array 100 (shown in FIG. 1) is assembled by placing a transportable storage container 102 at an operation site. Excess connector lengths of a first set of connectors 110 (shown in FIG. 1) are initially stored within the first positioned transportable storage container 102. The excess lengths of first set of connectors 110 are removed from transportable storage container 102 and placed on the ground such that they extend from the first placed transportable storage container 102 towards a power device, such as electrical power inverter 104. In one embodiment, the excess connector lengths may vary in length with the longest length extending to electrical power inverter 104, and the shorter lengths extending to other, soon-to-be-placed transportable storage containers 102. In alternative embodiments, all connector lengths have the same length. [0047] Once the first set of connectors 110 are placed in position, a second transportable storage container 102 is placed at a position between the first transportable storage container 102 and electrical power inverter 104. In one embodiment, connector channel 112 (shown in FIG. 6) has an open bottom and when second transportable storage container 102 is positioned over connectors 110, connectors 110 fit within connector channel 112 so that the transportable storage container 102 lies flat on the positioning surface. One of connectors 110 is connected to the second transportable storage container 102 and the remaining connectors 110 extend through connector channel 112. In the exemplary embodiment, excess connector lengths of a second set of connectors 110 are initially stored within the second positioned transportable storage container 102. The excess lengths of second set of connectors 110 are removed from transportable storage container 102 and placed on the ground such that they extend from the second placed transportable storage container 102 towards the power device, such as electrical power inverter 104.

[0048] Once the second transportable storage container 102 is properly positioned and connected, a third transportable storage container 102 is positioned between the second transportable storage container and electrical power inverter 104. Connector channel 112 of the third transportable storage container 102 has an open bottom and when third transportable storage container 102 is positioned over connectors 110, connectors 110 fit within connector channel 112 so that the third transportable storage container 102 lies flat on the positioning surface. One of connectors 110 is connected to the third transportable storage container 102 and the remaining connectors 112 extend through connector channel 112. In the exemplary embodiment, excess connector lengths of a third set of connectors 110 are initially stored within the third positioned transportable storage container 102. The excess lengths of third set of connectors 110 are removed from transportable storage container 102 and placed on the ground such that they extend from the third placed transportable storage container 102 towards the power device, such as electrical power inverter 104.

[0049] This process is repeated as many times as needed to properly place and connect each transportable storage container 102. By utilizing transportable storage containers 102 with connector channels having open bottoms, trenches need not be excavated to house connectors 110 underground, while the aesthetic look and safety of energy storage array 100 is maintained.

[0050] The embodiments described herein include at least one transportable storage container and an energy storage system housed within the transportable storage container. Each transportable storage container includes a housing that can be mounted on a transportation device such as a truck, a railcar, a forklift, a crane and/or a ship. In some embodiments, a plurality of the transportable storage containers are assembled together at a site and the energy storage systems housed within the transportable storage containers are operatively connected together to form an energy storage array. At least one of the transportable storage containers includes a channel in which a connector is at least partially positioned. The connector allows the energy storage system to receive and/or send primary power, auxiliary power, and/or communication signals. The channel extends along at least one of a wall, a ceiling, and a floor of the transportable storage container. The connector extends within the channel from a first end to a second end of the container. In some embodiments, a plurality of connectors are preinstalled within the at least one channel prior to delivery of the transportable storage containers to the installation site. As a result, the transportable storage containers having at least one channel simplify installation of the energy storage array. In addition, the channel increases the aesthetic appeal of the energy storage array.

[0051] An exemplary technical effect of the methods, systems, and apparatus described herein includes at least one of: a) reducing time and costs for installing an energy storage system housed within a transportable storage container, b) maximizing space within a transportable storage container such that the energy capacity of an energy storage system stored within the transportable storage container is maximized while complying with clearance and HVAC requirements, c) simplifying logistics for installing an energy storage system housed within a transportable storage container, and d) inhibiting tampering with connectors of energy storage arrays, e) reducing safety risks associated with exposed connectors of energy storage arrays, f) increasing the aesthetic appeal of energy storage arrays, and g) maximizing the available space at sites for energy storage arrays. [0052] Exemplary embodiments of energy storage arrays including transportable storage containers are described above in detail. The energy storage arrays, and methods of using and manufacturing such systems are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein, but rather, components of systems and/or steps of the methods may be utilized independently and separately from other components and/or steps described herein. For example, the methods may also be used in combination with other energy storage arrays, and are not limited to practice with only the energy storage arrays, and methods as described herein. Rather, the exemplary embodiment can be implemented and utilized in connection with many other energy storage systems.

[0053] Although specific features of various embodiments of the disclosure may be shown in some drawings and not in others, this is for convenience only. In accordance with the principles of the disclosure, any feature of a drawing may be referenced and/or claimed in combination with any feature of any other drawing.

[0054] This written description uses examples to disclose the embodiments, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the embodiments, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An energy storage array comprising: a first transportable storage container comprising: a first housing mountable to a transportation device, said first housing defining a first interior space; and a first energy storage system positioned within the first interior space of said first housing, said first energy storage system comprising a first battery rack and a plurality of first battery modules; a second transportable storage container comprising: a second housing mountable to the transportation device, said second housing defining a second interior space, wherein said second housing at least partly defines at least one channel; and a second energy storage system positioned within the second interior space of said second housing, said second energy storage system comprising a second battery rack and a plurality of second battery modules; and at least one connector operatively coupled to said first energy storage system, wherein said at least one connector is at least partially positioned within the at least one channel of the second transportable storage container.

2. The energy storage array in accordance with Claim 1 further comprising a power inverter configured to convert direct current (DC) electrical power to alternating current (AC) electrical power, wherein said first energy storage system is coupled to said power inverter by a connector of said at least one connector.

3. The energy storage array in accordance with Claim 1, wherein said at least one connector comprises a plurality of first connectors, wherein said energy storage array further comprises a plurality of second connectors operatively coupled to said second energy storage system, and wherein said plurality of second connectors is at least partially positioned within the at least one channel.

4. The energy storage array in accordance with Claim 3, wherein the at least one channel is a first channel, said energy storage array further comprising a third transportable storage container comprising: a third housing mountable to the transportation device, said third housing defining a third interior space, wherein said third housing at least partly defines a second channel; and a third energy storage system comprising a third battery rack and a plurality of third battery modules positioned within the third interior space of said third housing, wherein said plurality of second connectors and said plurality of first connectors are at least partially positioned within the second channel and extend within the second channel along said third housing.

5. The energy storage array in accordance with Claim 1, wherein said at least one connector extends longitudinally along said second housing within the at least one channel from a first end of said second housing to a second end of said second housing.

6. The energy storage array in accordance with Claim 5, wherein said second housing further comprises a floor beam that at least partially defines the at least one channel.

7. The energy storage array in accordance with Claim 6, wherein said floor beam is positioned parallel to a longitudinal axis of said second housing.

8. The energy storage array in accordance with Claim 7, wherein said floor beam is centrally positioned within said second housing.

9. The energy storage array in accordance with Claim 1, wherein one connector of said at least one connector is longer than said second housing.

10. The energy storage array in accordance with Claim 1, wherein said at least one connector comprises at least one of a bus bar and a cable.

11. A transportable storage container comprising: a housing mountable to a transportation device, said housing comprising a first end, a second end and a floor, said housing defining an interior space and at least partly defining at least one channel extending longitudinally along said floor from said first end to said second end; an energy storage system comprising a battery rack and a plurality of battery modules positioned within the interior space of said housing; and at least one connector operatively coupleable to a power device, wherein said at least one connector is at least partially positioned within the at least one channel.

12. The transportable storage container in accordance with Claim 11, wherein said at least one connector comprises a plurality of first connectors, said transportable storage container further comprising a plurality of second connectors operatively coupleable to a second energy storage system.

13. The transportable storage container in accordance with Claim 11, wherein said floor further comprises a beam that at least partially defines the at least one channel.

14. The transportable storage container in accordance with Claim 13, wherein said beam is positioned parallel to a longitudinal axis of said housing.

15. The transportable storage container in accordance with Claim 14, wherein said beam is centrally positioned within said housing.

16. The transportable storage container in accordance with Claim 11, wherein one connector of said at least one connector is longer than said housing.

17. A method of assembling an energy storage array, said method comprising: placing a first transportable storage container at a site, the first transportable storage container including an energy storage system; extending a first plurality of connectors from the first transportable storage container to a power device; placing a second transportable storage container between the first transportable storage container and the power device, wherein at least one connector of the first plurality of connectors extends from the first transportable storage container through a channel in the second transportable storage container to the power device; and connecting at least one other connector of the first plurality of connectors to the second transportable storage container.

18. The method in accordance with Claim 17, wherein the channel has an open bottom and wherein placing the second transportable storage container comprises placing the second transportable storage container over the at least one connector such that the at least one connector fits within the channel of the second transportable storage container.

19. The method in accordance with Claim 17, further comprising: extending a second plurality of connectors from the second transportable storage container to the power device; and placing a third transportable storage container between the second transportable storage container and the power device and over the at least one connector of the first plurality of connectors and at least one connector of the second plurality of connectors such that the at least one connector of the first plurality of connectors and the at least one connector of the second plurality of connectors fit within an open bottom channel of the third transportable storage container.

20. The method in accordance with Claim 17 wherein extending the first plurality of connectors from the first transportable storage container comprises extending the at least one connector from the first transportable storage container to an electrical power inverter.