Ideal Power Inc
In a nutshell, Ideal Power (NASDAQ:IPWR) has invented and patented a new power converter design that uses software to eliminate many of the traditional components needed, resulting in a lighter (>80% less), smaller (50%), less expensive, more reliable (fewer parts), and more efficient (an industry leading 98%) device than is currently available on the market. Dubbed PPSA (power-packet switching architecture), this technology can address many different areas of the power conversion space (Solar, Grid Storage, EVs, hybrid systems), with the company initially (2014-2015) focusing on BESS (battery energy storage systems) coupled with solar PV for commercial and industrial applications.
They have a very good line-up of partners (TODO) in this space, who re-sell (or whilte-label) the converters from Ideal. The business model is very capital efficient, as they out-source all the manufacturing to a third party (US-based), and are also pursuing an IP-licensing strategy (TODO) that would effectively let other manufacturers use their IP inside their own devices.
Website:
http://www.idealpower.com PPSA Benefits: - Non-resonant soft-switching dramatically reduces electrical and thermal stresses on power switches (silicon IGBTs).
High AC link frequency utilizes compact inductor, eliminating bulk capacitors and further improving system reliability.
Precise intra-cycle current management minimizes the need for output filtering.
Bi-directional AC switches (shown in blue) minimize conduction losses, delivering high-efficiency power transfer in all modes of operation
Awards 2014: Electrical Energy Storage (ees) AWARD for "Product Innovation in Integrating Solar and Storage"
2013: TechConnect National Innovation Award
2012: Gartner Inc.'s "Cool Vendor in Solar Energy"
2011: $2.5M grant from the Department of Energy ARPA-E
2011: Defense Energy Challenge
2010 and 2011: "Top Utility Technology" Awards
more coming...