Battery system with selective thermal management

Abstract

The present invention is directed to battery systems. In various embodiments, the present invention provides a battery system having a first battery group and a second battery group. The first battery group and the second battery group can share a single housing, or be positioned within separate housings. The first battery group and the second battery group can each have a plurality of cells configured in parallel, and the two groups can be electrically integrated. When operating at a low temperature, the first battery group is configured to provide electrical energy to a heating module that selectively heats up one or more segments of the second battery group. In addition, the first battery group also provides energy for initial operation of an electric vehicle or equipment. Once the selected segments of the battery group are heated up to an operating temperature, the selected segments supply electrical power to the vehicle or equipment and charge the first battery group. In addition, the selected segments of the second battery group provide electrical energy for heating other segments of the second battery group. There are other embodiments as well.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]Not applicableSTATEMENT AS TO RIGHTS TO INVENTIONS MADE UNDER FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT[0002]Not applicableBACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]The present invention is directed to battery systems.[0004]Battery systems in recent years have been used in more and more applications. For a long time, car batteries were primarily used to start vehicles and / or supply electricity to various electronics of the vehicles, not used to power the drivetrain. With advent of new battery technologies, more and more vehicles now utilize battery systems as a traction power source. Most batteries have their operating temperature ranges wherein their performance is highest. For example, many high-energy density batteries do not function at low temperatures, and become unsafe or quickly degrade at high temperatures. Thus, it is important to provide thermal management for batteries, especially for automotive applications.[0005]Unfortunately, co...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This configuration allows for quicker vehicle startup and reduced energy consumption by selectively heating only necessary segments, improving battery performance and longevity by maintaining batteries within a safe temperature window.

Problems solved by technology

For example, many high-energy density batteries do not function at low temperatures, and become unsafe or quickly degrade at high temperatures.

Unfortunately, conventional battery systems and their thermal management systems thereof have been inadequate.

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