Dynamic management of charging

Abstract

Embodiments are provided for dynamic management of charging. A method involves obtaining an estimated readiness time for an energy storage element; obtaining a target state of charge for the energy storage element; calculating an estimated charging time based at least in part on a difference between the target state of charge and a current state of charge; charging the energy storage element to an intermediate state of charge using a first charging rate in response to determining that a time difference between the estimated readiness time and a first time is greater than the estimated charging time; maintaining the energy storage element at the intermediate state of charge; and charging the energy storage element to the target state of charge using a second charging rate in response to determining that a time difference between the estimated readiness time and a second time is less than the estimated charging time.

Description

[0001] Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 987,122, filed March 9, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] Embodiments of the subject matter described herein relate generally to energy storage technology, and more specifically, embodiments of the subject matter relate to dynamic management of charging. BACKGROUND

[0004] Advances in battery technology have facilitated the proliferation of battery-powered devices (e.g., medical devices, electric vehicles, laptop computers, and smart phones) in modern society. Examples of battery-powered devices include portable or wearable infusion pump devices and systems for delivering or dispensing a medicament, such as insulin, and / or another prescribed drug to a patient. A typical infusion pump includes a pump drive system that generally includes a small motor and a drive train assembly that converts the rotational motor motion into a translational displacement of a plunger (or stopper) in a reservoir that delivers the drug from the reservoir to a user’s body through a fluid path formed between the reservoir and the user’s body. The use of infusion pump therapy has been increasing, especially for delivering insulin to diabetics.

[0005] Many batteries are rechargeable. However, the manner in which rechargeable batteries are maintained often shortens the battery life. For example, accelerated degradation can result from the battery being maintained at a low state of charge for a long time, the battery being maintained at a maximum state of charge for a long time, the battery being charged too frequently, and the battery being charged too quickly. Accordingly, techniques for mitigating accelerated degradation are needed. Other desirable features and characteristics will become apparent from the subsequent detailed description and the appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and this background. SUMMARY

[0006] Embodiments related to dynamic management of charging are disclosed herein. In some embodiments, a processor-implemented method involves obtaining an estimated readiness time for an energy storage element; obtaining a target state of charge for the energy storage element; calculating an estimated charging time based at least in part on a difference between the target state of charge and a current state of charge for the energy storage element; charging the energy storage element to an intermediate state of charge using a first charging rate in response to determining that a time difference between the estimated readiness time and a first point in time is greater than the estimated charging time; maintaining the energy storage element at the intermediate state of charge; and charging the energy storage element to the target state of charge using a second charging rate in response to determining that a time difference between the estimated readiness time and a second point in time is less than the estimated charging time. The second point in time is after the first point in time, and the second charging rate is greater than the first charging rate.

[0007] In some embodiments, one or more non-transitory processor-readable storage media store instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause performance of: obtaining an estimated readiness time for an energy storage element; obtaining a target state of charge for the energy storage element; calculating an estimated charging time based at least in part on a difference between the target state of charge and a current state of charge for the energy storage element; charging the energy storage element to an intermediate state of charge using a first charging rate in response to determining that a time difference between the estimated readiness time and a first point in time is greater than the estimated charging time; maintaining the energy storage element at the intermediate state of charge; and charging the energy storage element to the target state of charge using a second charging rate in response to determining that a time difference between the estimated readiness time and a second point in time is less than the estimated charging time, wherein the second point in time is after the first point in time, and wherein the second charging rate is greater than the first charging rate.

[0008] In some embodiments, a system is provided that includes one or more processors and one or more processor-readable storage media storing instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause performance of: obtaining an estimated readiness time for an energy storage element; obtaining a target state of charge for the energy storage element; calculating an estimated charging time based at least in part on a difference between the target state of charge and a current state of charge for the energy storage element; charging the energy storage element to an intermediate state of charge using a first charging rate in response to determining that a time difference between the estimated readiness time and a first point in time is greater than the estimated charging time; maintaining the energy storage element at the intermediate state of charge; and charging the energy storage element to the target state of charge using a second charging rate in response to determining that a time difference between the estimated readiness time and a second point in time is less than the estimated charging time, wherein the second point in time is after the first point in time, and wherein the second charging rate is greater than the first charging rate.

[0009] In some embodiments, a processor-implemented method involves charging an energy storage element from an initial state of charge to a holding state of charge; maintaining the energy storage element at the holding state of charge; receiving, via a network, an indication to complete charging of the energy storage element; and in response to receiving the indication, charging the energy storage element from the holding state of charge to a target state of charge.

[0010] In some embodiments, a system is provided that includes one or more processors and one or more processor-readable storage media storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause performance of: charging an energy storage element from an initial charge state to a hold charge state; maintaining the energy storage element in the hold charge state; receiving, via a network, an indication that charging of the energy storage element is complete; and in response to receiving the indication, charging the energy storage element from the hold charge state to a target charge state.

[0011] In some embodiments, one or more non-transitory processor-readable storage media store instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause performance of: charging an energy storage element from an initial charge state to a hold charge state; maintaining the energy storage element in the hold charge state; receiving, via a network, an indication that charging of the energy storage element is complete; and in response to receiving the indication, charging the energy storage element from the hold charge state to a target charge state.

[0012] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the DETAILED DESCRIPTION. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013] A more complete understanding of the subject matter can be derived from the detailed description and claims, to be considered in connection with the following drawing, in which like reference numbers refer to like elements throughout the drawing, and in which the detailed description is for purposes of illustration by not necessarily set forth the only claims the claimed subject matter.

[0014] Figure 1 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a charging system;

[0015] Figure 2 is a flowchart of an exemplary charging process suitable for implementation in a charging device in a charging system incorporating Figure 1

[0016] Figure 3 is a graph depicting charge state of an energy storage element versus time for an exemplary embodiment of a charging process incorporating Figure 2

[0017] Figure 4 is a block diagram of an exemplary patient management system suitable for implementation of a charging process incorporating Figure 2

[0018] Figure 5 is a block diagram of an exemplary patient management system suitable for implementation of a charging process incorporating​​​Figure 4 a flowchart of an exemplary networked charging process implemented by the patient management system of DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The following detailed description is merely illustrative in nature and is not intended to limit the embodiments of the subject matter or the application or the application and uses of such embodiments and uses. As used herein, the word “exemplary” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, summary or the following detailed description.

[0020] While the subject matter described herein can be implemented with any energy storage element, exemplary embodiments of the subject matter described herein are implemented in connection with energy storage elements used with medical devices, such as portable electronic medical devices. Although many different applications are possible, the following description focuses on embodiments incorporated as part of an infusion system deployment with a fluid infusion device (or infusion pump). That is, the subject matter described herein is not limited to infusion devices (or any particular configuration or implementation thereof) and can be implemented in equivalent fashion in the context of other medical devices, including, for example, continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), or other sensing devices, injection pens (e.g., smart injection pens), etc. For the sake of brevity, conventional techniques related to infusion system operation, insulin pump and / or infusion set operation, and other functional aspects of the systems (and individual operational components of the systems) can not be described in detail herein. Examples of infusion pumps can be of the type described in, but not limited to, U.S. Patent Nos. 4,562,751; 4,685,903; 5,080,653; 5,505,709; 5,097,122; 6,485,465; 6,554,798; 6,558,320; 6,558,351; 6,641,533; 6,659,980; 6,752,787; 6,817,990; 6,932,584; and 7,621,893; each of which is incorporated herein by reference. For purposes of explanation, the subject matter can be described herein in the context of an infusion fluid being insulin for regulating a user’s (or patient’s) glucose level; however, it should be understood that many other fluids can be administered by infusion, and the subject matter described herein is not necessarily limited to use with insulin.

[0021] Embodiments of the subject matter described herein generally relate to dynamic management of charging of a rechargeable energy storage element (e.g., a battery) for use with a battery-powered device based on historical usage data associated with the energy storage element and / or the device. For example, as described in greater detail below in the Figures 1 to 3 background, an estimated readiness time (e.g., representing a time at which the energy storage element is predicted to be ready for use to power the device) is identified or otherwise determined based on a duration of one or more previous charging cycles. To mitigate accelerated battery degradation, the charge can be configured to terminate at the estimated readiness time.

[0022] As described below, the estimated readiness time can be determined based on historical activity of the user, for example, by averaging a duration of one or more previous charging cycles (e.g., a period of time that begins when the user docks or otherwise connects the battery to a power source and ends when the user disconnects the battery from the power source). If a sufficient amount of time remains before an expected termination of the current charging cycle, the energy storage element can be charged at different charging phases to increase a duration that the state of charge of the energy storage element is at or near a hold charge state (e.g., a 50% state of charge). In this regard, the hold charge state is intended to mitigate degradation or wear by extending a duration that the energy storage element spends in the hold charge state and reducing a duration that the energy storage element spends in a relatively higher and / or final state of charge.

[0023] In some embodiments, different charging rates are employed during different charging phases to enable a target final state of charge to be reached at the end of the charging cycle. The charging rates employed can depend on a current state of charge of the energy storage element. For example, if the current state of charge is less than the hold charge state, a relatively slower charging rate can be employed to reduce an amount of temperature increase associated with the charge.

[0024] In some embodiments, the target final state of charge is determined based on historical charging data or other historical usage data associated with the energy storage element and / or the device. For example, if a historical usage pattern indicates that the energy storage element is not fully discharged in each usage cycle, the target final state of charge can be lowered such that the energy storage element is not fully charged at the end of the charging cycle.

[0025] As described below, the estimated readiness time can be determined based on historical activity of the user, for example, by averaging a duration of one or more previous charging cycles (e.g., a period of time that begins when the user docks or otherwise connects the battery to a power source and ends when the user disconnects the battery from the power source). If a sufficient amount of time remains before an expected termination of the current charging cycle, the energy storage element can be charged at different charging phases to increase a duration that the state of charge of the energy storage element is at or near a hold charge state (e.g., a 50% state of charge). In this regard, the hold charge state is intended to mitigate degradation or wear by extending a duration that the energy storage element spends in the hold charge state and reducing a duration that the energy storage element spends in a relatively higher and / or final state of charge. Figures 4 to 5In some embodiments, the estimated readiness time can be dynamically determined in response to one or more communications from one or more devices external to the charging device (e.g., a paired mobile phone or a remote server external to the charging device). The one or more communications can cause an adjustment to the estimated readiness time. In this way, the charging behavior can dynamically adapt to changes in user behavior or device usage. For example, the charging device can initially charge the energy storage element to the hold charge state and maintain the energy storage element in the hold charge state until the charging device receives an indication from another device to charge the energy storage element to the target final charge state. Thus, when the initially estimated readiness time changes to an earlier point in time, the charging behavior can dynamically adapt to enable the target final charge state to be reached prior to the earlier point in time. Conversely, when the initially estimated readiness time changes to a later point in time, the charging behavior can dynamically adapt to delay charging to the target final charge state, thereby increasing the duration of time that the energy storage element is maintained in the hold charge state.

[0026] For example, an individual patient can use two different infusion devices, each having one or more built-in rechargeable batteries (or the patient can use an infusion device having two sets of one or more replaceable rechargeable batteries). The infusion device (or battery) that is not currently in use can be charged to the hold charge state and maintained there while the other infusion device (or battery) is in use. As the charge state of the infusion device (or battery) in use becomes depleted, an indication can be transmitted or otherwise provided to the charging infusion device (or battery) to initiate charging from the hold charge state to the target charge state.

[0027] In some embodiments, the patient's mobile device can be paired with its infusion device to enable wireless communication over a wireless personal area network (e.g., a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) network), thereby enabling an application or software process at the mobile phone to monitor the charge state of the infusion device in use and transmit an indication to the charging infusion device when the charge state of the infusion device in use falls below a threshold level. In some other embodiments, the patient's mobile device can transmit or otherwise upload a marker of the charge state of the infusion device in use to a remote device over a communication network, and the remote device can provide an indication to the charging infusion device based on the charge state of the infusion device in use.

[0028] Similarly, in embodiments in which an infusion device or other portable medical device utilizes one or more replaceable rechargeable batteries, a battery charger or other distinct, standalone charging device can be paired or otherwise configured with the patient's mobile device to support communication over a network with the mobile device (or a remote device communicatively coupled to the battery charger) to facilitate dynamic management of battery charging.

[0029] In some embodiments, the subject matter described herein is implemented in the context of an infusion system that includes two infusion devices associated with a patient, where each infusion device includes a durable component (e.g., a battery and electronics) and a consumable component (e.g., a cannula, a reservoir of insulin, etc.). The consumable components can have different lifespans, and the duration of use of an infusion device can be limited by the shortest lifespan of a consumable component. To minimize the time without therapy, an infusion device that is being charged is expected to be ready for use when one or more consumable components of another infusion device need to be replaced.

[0030] The techniques described herein can be used to dynamically manage battery charging in a manner that mitigates premature battery degradation while minimizing the time without therapy. The techniques described herein can also ensure that the final state of charge of the battery is such that the battery can remain in use for the entire lifespan of any consumables associated with the device powered by the battery.

[0031] Dynamic management of charging

[0032] Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of a charging system 100 is depicted, which can be implemented by an electronic device 102 to charge a chargeable energy storage element 106. Depending on the embodiment, the electronic device 102 can be realized as a portable medical device (e.g., an infusion device, a CGM device, etc.) or another portable electronic device that includes integrated charging capabilities (e.g., a mobile phone, a smartphone, a laptop computer, or other client electronic device). Alternatively, the electronic device 102 can be realized as a standalone charging device (e.g., a battery charger, a charging dock, a charging station, etc.) that receives a replaceable or interchangeable energy storage element 106 for powering another portable electronic device. Thus, for explanatory purposes but without limitation, the electronic device 102 can be alternatively referred to herein as a charging device. The illustrated charging system 100 includes, but is not limited to, a power conversion arrangement 104, a sensing arrangement 108, and a control system 110. It should be understood that for explanatory purposes, Figure 1 A simplified representation of the charging system 100 is depicted and is not intended to limit the subject matter described herein.

[0033] In an exemplary embodiment, the energy storage element 106 is realized as one or more chargeable batteries (or battery packs), e.g., one or more nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, lithium polymer batteries, lithium-ion batteries, lead-acid batteries, etc. Thus, for explanatory purposes but without limitation, the energy storage element 106 can be alternatively referred to herein as a battery.

[0034] The power conversion arrangement 104 generally represents a power converter or other suitable hardware and / or circuitry capable of providing electrical energy from an external source to the battery 106 to charge the battery 106. In this regard, the power conversion arrangement 104 generally includes one or more inputs coupled to a corresponding input interface 101 configured to receive input power. For example, the input interface 101 can be implemented as a plug supporting the establishment of an electrical connection with a power grid or mains to receive an alternating current (AC) electrical signal, with the power conversion arrangement 104 implemented as a rectifier or other AC-to-direct current (DC) converter to provide a DC charging current or voltage at an output of the power conversion arrangement 104. The output of the power conversion arrangement 104 is coupled to a corresponding output interface that facilitates an electrical connection with the battery 106. For example, when the battery 106 is physically separate from the charging device 102, the output of the power conversion arrangement 104 can be electrically connected to a physical interface (e.g., a terminal, connector, etc.) configured to mate with a corresponding interface of the battery 106. That is, in other embodiments, when the battery 106 is integrated or included within an enclosure of the charging device 102, the output of the power conversion arrangement 104 can be electrically connected to a bus that routes or otherwise provides energy to one or more components of the charging device 102. For example, a positive output node or terminal of the power conversion arrangement 104 can be connected to a supply voltage bus that, in turn, is connected to a positive terminal of the battery 106, while a negative output node or terminal of the power conversion arrangement 104 is connected to a ground voltage bus that, in turn, is connected to a negative terminal of the battery 106.

[0035] The sensing arrangement 108 generally represents a sensing element of the charging device 102 configured to support monitoring one or more of a state of charge of the battery 106, a voltage of the battery 106, and / or a current flowing to the battery 106 to track or otherwise monitor a state of charge and / or usage of the battery 106. In this regard, the sensing arrangement 108 can include a state of charge sensor, a voltage sensor, a current sensor, a coulomb counter, etc. Depending on the deployed embodiment and particular type of sensing technology, the sensing arrangement 108 can be connected to a battery interface or battery terminal, or alternatively connected between the power conversion arrangement 104 and the battery 106. It should also be noted that various different types or combinations of sensors or sensing technologies can be utilized, and the subject matter described herein is not limited to any particular type, number, configuration, or combination of sensing elements.

[0036] The control system 110 generally represents components of the charging device 102 that are coupled to the sensing arrangement 108 to monitor the state and usage of the battery 106. As described in greater detail below, the control system 110 operates the power conversion arrangement 104 to dynamically charge the battery 106 in a manner that extends the useful life of the battery 106. In the illustrated embodiment, the control system 110 includes a processing module 112 and a data storage element 114. Depending on the embodiment, the processing module 112 can be implemented or realized with a processor, a controller, a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a content addressable memory, a digital signal processor, an application specific integrated circuit, a field programmable gate array, any suitable programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, a processing core, a discrete hardware component, or any combination thereof, and is configured to perform arithmetic and logic operations and other processing tasks associated with the operation of the charging system 100 as described in greater detail below. Moreover, the steps of a method or algorithm described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein can be embodied directly in hardware, in firmware, in a software module executed by the processing module 112, or in any practical combination thereof. According to one or more embodiments, the processing module 112 accesses the data storage element 114, which can be implemented as a memory (e.g., RAM memory, ROM memory, Flash memory, registers, hard disk, or the like), or another suitable non-transitory short or long term storage medium capable of storing computer-executable programming instructions or other data for execution, that when read and executed by the processing module 112, cause the processing module 112 to perform, facilitate, or execute one or more of the processes, tasks, operations, and / or functions described herein. In an example embodiment, the data storage element 114 is also used to store or otherwise maintain usage data associated with the battery 106, as described in greater detail below.

[0037] Still referring to Figure 1In one or more embodiments, the charging device 102 also includes a communication interface 120 coupled to the control system 110 and configured to support communication to / from the charging device 102 via a communication network. In this regard, the communication interface 120 generally includes one or more transceivers or communication devices capable of supporting wireless communication between the charging device 102 and another electronic device (e.g., an infusion device, a client device, a remote device, or another electronic device in an infusion system). For example, in one or more example embodiments, the communication interface 120 is implemented as a Bluetooth transceiver or adapter configured to support Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication over a Bluetooth network or similar wireless personal area network. In such embodiments, the charging device 102 can establish a relationship (or pairing) with another external device over the network to support a subsequent establishment of a point-to-point communication session between the charging device 102 and the external device over the personal area network, such as by performing a discovery procedure or another suitable pairing procedure to obtain and store network identification information for each other. Pairing information obtained during the discovery procedure allows either the charging device 102 or the external device to initiate establishment of a secure communication session via the personal area network. In other embodiments, the communication interface 120 can be configured to support communication with a remote device or other external device over the Internet, a cellular network, a wide area network (WAN), or the like. In this regard, the subject matter described herein is not intended to be limited to any particular type of communication interface 120 or communication network. Moreover, some embodiments described herein can be implemented without including or relying on a communication interface 120, and in such embodiments, the charging system 100 and / or the charging device 102 can not actually include a communication interface 120.

[0038] Figure 2 An example embodiment of a dynamic charging process 200 suitable for implementation by the charging system 100 of Figure 1 to extend the useful life of the battery 106. Various tasks performed in connection with the dynamic charging process 200 can be performed by hardware, firmware, software executed by processing circuitry, or any combination thereof. For purposes of illustration, the following description refers to elements mentioned above in connection with the Figure 1 For explanatory purposes, the dynamic charging process 200 can be primarily described herein in the context of being implemented by the control system 110 and / or the processing module 112. It should be appreciated that the dynamic charging process 200 can include any number of additional or alternative tasks, the tasks need not be performed in the illustrated order and / or the tasks can be performed concurrently, and / or the dynamic charging process 200 can be incorporated into a more comprehensive procedure or process having additional functionality not Figure 2 described in detail herein. Moreover, while aspects can be described as performing various tasks or operations, such descriptions are for illustrative purposes only and are not meant to limit the scope of the aspects described herein.

[0039] With reference to Figure 2 , with continued reference to Figure 1 Prior to initiating charging of the energy storage element, the dynamic charging process 200 initializes or otherwise starts a timer, counter, or similar feature to monitor the duration of the charging cycle in response to detecting a desire to charge the energy storage element (task 202). For example, in embodiments where the battery 106 is implemented as a standalone component, the control system 110 can detect or otherwise identify when the battery 106 is engaged with the charging device 102, such as by plugging the battery 106 into a port or base of the charging device 102 or otherwise establishing an electrical connection between the output of the power conversion arrangement 104 and the battery 106. In other embodiments where the battery 106 is integrated or otherwise housed within the charging device 102, the control system 110 can detect or otherwise identify when the input interface 101 is connected to an external power source (e.g., mains power). In response to monitoring a desire to charge the battery 106, the control system 110 and / or processing module 112 resets or otherwise initializes a timer, counter, or similar feature to measure the duration of a subsequent charging cycle.

[0040] As described in greater detail below, the dynamic charging process 200 tracks the duration of each charging cycle between the point in time when the charging device 102 or battery 106 is initially connected to a source of electrical energy (e.g., the interface 101 of the charging device 102 is connected to an external power source, the battery 106 is inserted into the charging device 102 and connected to the output of the power conversion arrangement 103, etc.) and when the charging device 102 and / or battery 106 is subsequently disconnected from charging. The duration between the connection event and the disconnection event is stored or otherwise maintained as part of historical usage data associated with the charging device 102 and / or battery 106 (e.g., in the data storage element 114), which in turn is used to learn and predict the charging behavior of the charging device 102 and / or battery 106, as described in greater detail below. In one or more embodiments, a timer or counter is also used to monitor or track the duration between the disconnection or termination of charging and the subsequent connection for recharging of the battery 106, thereby tracking the duration of use of the battery 106, i.e., the duration of a use cycle (or discharge cycle) between two additional consecutive charging cycles. Additionally, the value of the timer or counter implemented by the control system 110 can be used to assign a time stamp to measured voltage values, state of charge values, or other data associated with a charging cycle, as well as track the duration of different phases of a charging cycle. For example, as described in greater detail below, the historical data can be used to dynamically determine the estimated amount of time required to charge the battery 106 from an initial state of charge to a hold state of charge in an initial charging phase, the estimated amount of time required to charge the battery 106 from the hold state of charge to a target final state of charge in a final charging phase, etc.

[0041] Still referring to Figure 2The illustrated dynamic charging process 200 calculates or otherwise determines an estimated readiness time (task 204) that a user can expect the current charging cycle to have completed based on historical usage data. In this regard, the estimated readiness time represents a predicted or expected amount of time that the user can charge the battery 106 during the current charging cycle before the battery 106 is returned to use or discharge, i.e., a future expected point in time at which the user can remove the battery 106 from the charging device 102 or disconnect the charging device 102 from the external power source to terminate charging (e.g., an expected charging cycle termination time). In one or more embodiments, the estimated readiness time is calculated by averaging the durations of previous charging cycles. For example, the control system 110 and / or processing module 112 can calculate the estimated duration of the current charging cycle as a weighted average of the durations of previous charging cycles, i.e., a weighted average of the durations between successive connections to disconnections. As described in greater detail below, in some embodiments, a standard deviation or some other statistical measure representing variability in the durations of previous charging cycles can be used to provide a buffer time that advances the estimated readiness time earlier than the average or otherwise ensures that charging is completed prior to the disconnection expected based on the user's historical usage data to increase the probability that the user will not attempt to return the battery to use before the battery is charged to the target final state of charge.

[0042] In one or more embodiments, in which the charging device 102 and / or battery 106 are used in a system in which one battery 106 is in use while another battery 106 is charging, the estimated duration of the current charging cycle for a given battery 106 is calculated as a weighted average of the durations of previous charging cycles for the battery 106 and the durations of intervening periods in which the battery 106 was in use or discharge (e.g., while another battery 106 was charging) minus some buffer time. For example, the equation The average duration between successive connection events and disconnection events over the 10 previous alternating charging and discharging cycles can be calculated as DISC(n) representing the duration of the respective previous charging cycle or the respective previous discharging cycle. Alternatively, the average duration between successive connection events and disconnection events over the previous alternating charging and discharging cycles can be calculated using the same equation, where T DISC(n) representing the timestamp value associated with the respective connection event or disconnection event). It should be appreciated that many different ways can combine previous charging and / or discharging cycle durations to derive an estimated or predicted duration of the current charging cycle (e.g., the estimated readiness time) based on the historical usage behavior of the individual user, and the subject matter described herein is not limited to any particular equation or technique.

[0043] In some embodiments, the standard deviation associated with the duration of previous charging cycles can be used to determine a buffer time to subtract from the average duration, or otherwise used to arrive at an estimated duration relative to the start of a charging cycle before the battery should be ready for return to use, which is earlier than the estimated ready time that would otherwise be derived from merely averaging the durations of previous charging cycles. That is, in other embodiments, a buffer time or wait time (T W ) can be incorporated into the calculation or estimation of the amount of time required to charge the battery to achieve the same effect, rather than adjusting the estimated ready time.

[0044] The dynamic charging process 200 also calculates or otherwise determines a target final state of charge for the charging cycle based on the historical usage data (task 206). In example embodiments, the target final state of charge is dynamically determined in a manner affected by the previous usage of the battery 106 to reduce the maximum state of charge of the battery 106 to a possible maximum charge amount required or desired by the user to avoid discharging the battery 106 below a minimum state of charge during the next discharge cycle, rather than fully charging the battery 106 (and overcharging relative to its intended use) to extend the useful life. The target final state of charge can be initially set to a default value of 100%, and then dynamically adjusted and reduced over time based on the respective amounts that the battery 106 is discharged within previous usage cycles (e.g., the difference between the final state of charge from a previous charging cycle and the initial state of charge at the start of the next charging cycle) to reflect the charging or usage behavior of a given individual user.

[0045] For example, in one or more embodiments, the data storage element 114 can maintain an array of discharge values representing the difference between the final state of charge at the end of a respective charging cycle and the initial state of charge at the start of the next subsequent charging cycle. A weighted average of the discharge values can then be added to a reference desired minimum state of charge to arrive at an estimated state of charge required to avoid discharging the battery 106 below the minimum state of charge. In one or more embodiments, in which the data storage element 114 maintains an array of 10 previous discharge amounts, the target final state of charge (SOC f ) is determined by the equation control, where SOC min represents the desired minimum state of charge, ΔSOC(j) represents the amount of state of charge consumed or discharged within a previous usage cycle, and σ ΔSOCrepresents a standard deviation related to the amount of discharge over the previous 10 usage cycles, which is used to add a margin to the target final state of charge to account for possible increased discharges over the next usage cycle and achieve a desired tradeoff between minimizing the maximum state of charge and avoiding discharges below the minimum state of charge. As the amount of discharge changes and varies over time, the target final state of charge dynamically adapts to effectively learn the user's behavior to reduce the maximum state of charge while minimizing discharges below the minimum state of charge.

[0046] Still referring to Figure 2 , the dynamic charging process 200 also calculates or otherwise determines an estimated amount of time required to charge the energy storage element from its current initial state of charge to the target final state of charge (task 208). When the amount of time remaining before reaching the estimated readiness time (or expected end of charging cycle time) is greater than the estimated amount of time required to charge the energy storage element to the target final state of charge, the dynamic charging process 200 charges the energy storage element at a reduced (or slower) charging rate when the current state of charge of the energy storage element is less than the hold state of charge until the hold state of charge is reached (tasks 210, 212, 214). Once the current state of charge reaches the hold state of charge, the dynamic charging process 200 maintains the energy storage element at the hold state of charge until the amount of time remaining before reaching the estimated readiness time is equal to or less than the estimated amount of time required to charge the energy storage element to the target final state of charge (tasks 208, 210, 212).

[0047] In example embodiments, an estimated duration of time required for the initial charging phase from the initial state of charge to the hold state of charge is determined and added to an estimated duration of time required for the final charging phase from the hold state of charge to the target final state of charge to arrive at an estimated total amount of time required to charge the battery 106. In example embodiments, one or more of the estimated duration of time (T CH1 ) for the initial charging phase and / or the estimated duration of time (T CH2 ) for the final charging phase can be determined based on the reduced charging rate to be utilized during the respective charging phase, as described in greater detail below. Additionally, in some embodiments, the estimated amount of time required for the respective phases of the charging cycle is dynamically determined and updated in substantially real-time as the battery 106 is being charged to reduce the likelihood of failing to charge the battery 106 to the target final state of charge, as described in greater detail below in the context of Figure 3

[0048] ​In example embodiments, an estimated amount of time required for respective phases of a charging cycle is calculated or otherwise determined based on historical data. For example, the control system 110 and / or the processing module 112 can store or otherwise maintain respective durations of an initial charging phase using a reduced charging rate from a fully discharged state of the battery 106 to a hold charge state (T CH1 ), as well as a final charging phase from the hold charge state to a final charge state (T CH2 ), of previous charging cycles and average or otherwise combine the historical durations of the respective charging phases to arrive at an estimated value for the respective charging phases. In one or more embodiments, a characterization procedure is performed to initially or periodically determine reference values for the estimated required charging phase durations by fully discharging the battery 106 to a 0% state of charge and then fully charging the battery 106 to a 100% state of charge at a reduced charging rate, measuring the respective charging times and setting the charging phase durations to the measured values. For example, the measured duration taken to charge the battery 106 from 0% to a hold charge state during the characterization procedure can be set as an initial value for the initial charging phase duration (T CH1 ), and the measured duration taken to charge the battery 106 from the hold charge state to 100% during the characterization procedure can be set as an initial value for the final charging phase duration (T CH2 ). Thereafter, between iterations of the characterization procedure, the charging phase durations can be dynamically updated over time, as described in greater detail below.

[0049] In one or more embodiments, the estimated amount of time required for charging also includes an additional amount of buffer time (T W ) to provide sufficient time margin that reduces the likelihood of failing to charge the battery 106 to a target final charging phase in the event of a disconnect event occurring slower than an expected charge for the battery 106 or before an initially expected termination time of the charging cycle. In this regard, the time margin can be calculated as a percentage or function of the estimated duration of the charging cycle. For example, in one or more embodiments, the time margin or buffer is calculated as a function of the estimated duration of the charging cycle using the equation T W = 0.05T S + 2σ Ts , where σ TS represents a standard deviation associated with durations of previous charging and / or discharging cycles having corresponding time data maintained in the data storage element 114, as described above. Thus, the amount of buffer time accounts for a variable degree of charging or discharging behavior of individual users in previous cycles and can dynamically adapt to changes in a user’s behavior over time. The estimated amount of time required to charge the energy storage element to a target final charging phase can be represented by the equation T R = TCH1 +T CH2 +T W Control, where T R This represents the estimated amount of time, including the time buffer, required to charge battery 106 to the target final state of charge.

[0050] Figure 3 Depicting based on Figure 2 The dynamic charging process 200 involves the state of charge of battery 106 relative to the initial state of charge (SOC) of battery 106. i Charge to the target final state of charge (SOC) f A graph 300 showing the time during a charging cycle. As described above, in an exemplary embodiment, in response to detecting a connection event for charging the battery 106, the control module 110 and / or processing system 112 initialize a timer or counter and calculate or otherwise determine an estimated ready time (e.g., tasks 202, 204) relative to the initialized timer or counter value, for example by determining the expected charging cycle duration or the estimated ready time (T) based on the duration of previous charging and / or usage cycles of the battery 106. S This is added to the initial time value to derive a timer / counter value corresponding to the estimated readiness time. Additionally, control module 110 and / or processing system 112 calculate or otherwise determine the target final state of charge (SOC) based on historical usage data as described above. f (For example, task 206). The control module 110 and / or processing system 112 also calculate or otherwise determine the initial charging phase (T). CH1 ) and final charging phase (T CH2 The estimated duration. Figure 3 The graphic 300 described in the text also illustrates the implementation of additional margin or waiting time (T). W To reduce charging cycles, the target final state of charge (SOC) will be reached. f The possibility of ending prematurely.

[0051] When the remaining estimated time (e.g., the difference between the estimated ready time and the current value of the timer or counter) is greater than the time required to charge battery 106 to the target final state of charge (e.g., T), S -T C ≥T R T R =T CH1 +T CH2 +T W and T C The estimated amount of time (T) required to represent the current value of a timer or counter. R) the control module 110 and / or the processing system 112 operate the power conversion arrangement 104 to provide current to the battery 106 to charge the battery 106 and increase the state of charge until the state of charge (SOC h ) is reached. In this regard, the control module 110 and / or the processing system 112 continuously monitor the output of the sensing arrangement 108 while operating the power conversion arrangement 104 to detect or otherwise identify when the current state of charge of the battery 106 is equal to the maintenance state of charge (SOC h ), e.g., when the open circuit voltage of the battery 106 is equal to the voltage associated with the maintenance state of charge identified during the characterization procedure.

[0052] In the exemplary embodiment, the control module 110 and / or the processing system 112 operate the power conversion arrangement 104 to charge the battery 106 at a reduced rate for the duration of the initial charging phase (T CH1 ). In this regard, the estimated duration of the initial charging phase (T CH1 ) can be calculated or otherwise determined to accommodate the reduced charging rate based on the reduced rate. In one or more embodiments, the control module 110 and / or the processing system 112 operate the power conversion arrangement 104 to provide an output charging current (i c ) to the battery 106 that is one quarter of the maximum charging current capability of the battery 106, e.g., i c = C / 4, where C represents the maximum charging current capability. In this regard, in practice, the reduced charging rate can be user configurable or otherwise determined or derived from the maximum charging current in any number of different methods, and the subject matter described herein is not intended to be limited to any particular reduced charging rate. Once the current state of charge of the battery 106 reaches the maintenance state of charge (SOC H ), the control module 110 and / or the processing system 112 automatically cease operation of the power conversion arrangement 104 in a state or configuration that prevents current flow between the input interface 101 and the battery 106, e.g., i C = 0, such as by opening or deactivating any switching elements of the power conversion arrangement 104.

[0053] In one or more embodiments, the control module 110 and / or the processing system 112 continuously and dynamically determines an updated time remaining for the initial charging phase based on a current or real-time state of charge of the battery 106 during the initial charging phase. For example, the control module 110 and / or the processing system 112 can record in the data storage element 114 the initial open circuit battery voltage (e.g., voltage difference between battery terminals) and / or initial state of charge in conjunction with a timestamp corresponding to an initial value of a timer or counter at the beginning of the charging cycle. As the charging current is provided to the battery 106 during the initial charging phase, the control module 110 and / or the processing system 112 can continuously record in the data storage element 114 the current battery voltage (e.g., voltage difference between battery terminals) and / or current state of charge in conjunction with a timestamp corresponding to a value of the timer or counter at the time of the respective battery voltage and / or state of charge measurement. Based on the relationship between the recorded measured battery voltage and / or state of charge values and their respective times, the control module 110 and / or the processing system 112 can dynamically determine, in substantially real-time, an updated estimate of the duration of the remaining portion of the initial charging phase (T CH1 ) that indicates that the battery 106 is charging faster or slower than expected for the reduced charging rate. For example, during the characterization procedure, battery voltages and corresponding state of charges can be recorded in the data storage element 114 and time-stamped and maintained such that an estimated remaining duration of the initial charging phase can be determined based on a timestamp difference between a time-stamped log entry matching a current battery voltage and / or current battery state of charge and a time-stamped recorded entry for maintaining state of charge.

[0054] Still referring to Figure 3 , with continued reference to Figures 1 to 2 , as time elapses during the current charging cycle, the control module 110 and / or the processing system 112 continuously increments the value of the timer or counter (e.g., T c (n) = T c (n) + 1) and dynamically determines an updated amount of time remaining for the charging cycle (e.g., T s - T C (n)). As the difference between the expected charging cycle termination time (T S ) and the current value of the timer or counter decreases, until the estimated amount of time remaining before the expected charging cycle termination time (T S ) is less than the estimated duration of the final charging phase (T ch2 ), the state of charge of the battery 106 is maintained at the hold state of charge (SOC h ).

[0055] Referring to Figure 2When the remaining estimated amount of time is less than or equal to the estimated amount of time needed to complete charging the energy storage element to the target final state of charge, the dynamic charging process 200 automatically resumes charging the energy storage element to the target final state of charge (task 216). In one or more example embodiments, the charging rate associated with the final charging phase is dynamically determined or otherwise influenced by the remaining amount of time. For example, at the beginning of the final charging phase (T CH2 ) the control module 110 and / or processing system 112 can initially operate the power conversion arrangement 104 to charge the battery 106 at a reduced rate (e.g., i C =C / 4). In a similar manner as described above, the control module 110 and / or processing system 112 continually records the time-stamped battery voltage and / or state of charge during the final charging phase in the data storage element 114. Based on the relationship between the recorded measured battery voltage and / or state of charge values and their respective values, the control module 110 and / or processing system 112 can dynamically determine an updated estimate of the duration of the remaining portion of the final charging phase (T CH2 ) in substantially real-time, which indicates that the battery 106 is charging faster or slower than expected for the reduced charging rate.

[0056] When the estimated amount of time needed to complete charging the battery 106 to the target final state of charge is greater than the remaining estimated amount of time (e.g., T S -T C (n) < T CH2 ), the control module 110 and / or processing system 112 can dynamically increase the charging rate by operating the power conversion arrangement 104 to charge the battery 106 at an increased rate. For example, the control module 110 and / or processing system 112 can automatically switch to operating the power conversion arrangement 104 to charge the battery 106 at a maximum rate supported by the battery 106 (e.g., i C =C) to increase the likelihood that the estimated ready time will reach the target final state of charge. It should be noted that in practice, there are many different possible approaches that can dynamically change the charging rate to achieve the target final state of charge at the estimated ready time, and the subject matter described herein is not intended to be limited to any particular way of dynamically increasing the charging rate.

[0057] In example embodiments, once the state of charge of the battery 106 substantially equals the target final state of charge (SOC f), the control module 110 and / or processing system 112 operates the power conversion arrangement 104 to provide a constant output voltage corresponding to the target final state-of-charge until the output current of the battery 106 is less than a termination current threshold indicative of completion of charging. Once the output current of the battery 106 falls below the termination current, the control module 110 and / or processing system 112 operates the power conversion arrangement 104 to disable current flow to the battery 106 and maintain the battery 106 at a voltage level corresponding to the target final state-of-charge (e.g., by opening all switches). Additionally, the control module 110 and / or processing system 112 can provide a notification of completion of charging, for example, via the communication interface 120 or a user interface element associated with the charging apparatus 102. For example, if the charging apparatus 102 includes a display element (e.g., light-emitting diode, etc.) or display device (e.g., liquid crystal display, etc.), the control module 110 and / or processing system 112 can provide a graphical indication of completion of charging via the display. In other embodiments, the control module 110 and / or processing system 112 can transmit or otherwise provide a notification of completion of charging to another device via a communication network, which in turn causes a corresponding user notification of completion of charging to be generated at or by the other device (e.g., a user's mobile phone, etc.).

[0058] Still referring to Figure 2 In example embodiments, after completion of charging of the energy storage element, the dynamic charging process 200 updates historical usage data associated with the energy storage element based on the timestamped voltage and / or state-of-charge values observed during the charging cycle (task 218). In this regard, the control module 110 and / or processing system 112 can dynamically update the estimated duration of the initial charging phase (T CH1 ) and the final charging phase (T CH2 ) to initialize the next iteration of the dynamic charging process 200 (e.g., at task 208) to reflect the observed duration of the charging phases during the most recent charging cycle. Additionally, in response to a disconnection event (e.g., the user unplugging the input interface 101 from an external power source or removing the battery 106 from the charging apparatus 102), the control module 110 and / or processing system 112 can log or otherwise record a timestamp and calculate or otherwise determine the duration of the most recent charging cycle (e.g., T DISC(n) ) based on the difference relative to the initialized timer or counter value. In this regard, as the data storage element 114 maintains an array or queue of previous charging cycle durations (or timestamps), the oldest entry can be evicted or otherwise overwritten with the timestamp associated with the most recent charging cycle such that the estimated ready time (T S) the corresponding expected charge cycle duration is influenced by the most recent charge cycle.

[0059] With reference to Figure 3 With continued reference to Figures 1 to 2 With the dynamic charging process 200, the duration (or percentage of the charge cycle) that the battery 106 is maintained at a holding state of charge configured to minimize battery degradation can be increased, thereby extending the useful life. The average charge current flowing to the battery 106 during the charge cycle can also be reduced, thereby helping to minimize the temperature of the battery 106 during charging, which also mitigates possible degradation due to charging. Additionally, the target final state of charge of the charge cycle can dynamically adapt and evolve to the behavior of the individual user to minimize the duration spent at undesirable low state of charge values, while also minimizing the higher state of charge values to which the battery 106 is charged. In exemplary embodiments, the dynamic charging process 200 also reduces the duration that the battery 106 is at the target final state of charge (e.g., by maintaining the battery 106 at a more preferred holding state of charge) to reduce possible degradation due to time spent at higher state of charge values. At the same time, a buffer or wait time can be incorporated into the charge cycle, which helps to ensure that the target final state of charge is achieved before use or discharge of the battery 106 can be needed or desired. In this regard, it should be appreciated that there are many different approaches that can be selected or adjusted to optimize the tradeoff between the duration spent at the holding state of charge, the duration spent at the higher state of charge, and the amount of charge current flowing to the battery 106, and the subject matter described herein is not intended to be limited to any particular implementation.

[0060] In one or more embodiments, the dynamic charging process 200 is configured to discharge the battery 106 back down to the holding state of charge from the target final state of charge after the battery 106 has been maintained at the target final state of charge for longer than a threshold duration. In this regard, in the event that the battery 106 is not returned to use within a threshold amount of time after the initially estimated charge cycle termination time, the control module 110 and / or the processing system 112 operates the power conversion arrangement 104 to discharge the battery 106 back down to a voltage level corresponding to the holding state of charge to avoid an extended duration at a relatively higher state of charge.

[0061] Networked dynamic management of charging

[0062] Referring now to Figures 4 to 5 and with continued reference to Figures 1 to 3In one or more exemplary embodiments, the dynamic charging process 200 can be used in a networked environment to dynamically adjust the estimated charge cycle termination time, and thereby dynamically affect the charging rate to achieve a target final state of charge when needed or desired, while additionally maximizing the duration that the battery 106 is maintained in a holding state of charge. In this regard, when the battery 106 can be needed prior to the initially estimated charge cycle termination time, a notification of the updated charge cycle termination time can be transmitted to the charging device 102 over the network. In response to receiving an indication of the updated readiness time via the communication interface 120, the control module 110 and / or processing system 112 updates or overwrites the previously estimated readiness time with the updated readiness time. The earlier readiness time reduces the estimated amount of time remaining until the expected end of the charge cycle, which in turn can result in completing the charge at a faster charging rate to increase the likelihood of reaching the target final state of charge at the earlier estimated readiness time (e.g., tasks 210, 216). Conversely, when a notification of a later readiness time is received, the estimated amount of time remaining until the expected end of the charge cycle is increased, which in turn can increase the duration that the battery 106 is maintained in a holding state of charge or otherwise reduce the charging rate to extend the useful life (e.g., tasks 210, 212, 214).

[0063] For purposes of explanation, the networked dynamic charging can be described herein in the context of one or more portable medical devices in a patient management system, such as one or more infusion devices in an insulin infusion system or one or more glucose sensing devices in a continuous glucose monitoring system. That is, it should be understood that the subject matter described below is not limited to medical devices or medical systems, and can be implemented in an equivalent manner in the context of other portable electronic devices or systems.

[0064] Reference Figure 4In example embodiments, the patient management system 400 includes, without limitation, a charging device 402, a medical device 404, a client device 406, and a remote device 408. Depending on the embodiment, two or more of the devices 402, 404, 406, 408 can be capable of communicating with each other over a communication network (or combinations thereof), such as a wireless personal area network (PAN), a wireless local area network (WLAN), a local area network (LAN), a cellular network, the Internet, and the like. For example, in some embodiments, the medical device 404 and / or the client device 406 can communicate with the charging device 402 to support direct communication in a point-to-point or ad hoc manner over a wireless personal area network. In other embodiments, the medical device 404 and / or the client device 406 can communicate directly with the charging device 402 over a wireless network, a local area network, or the like, while in other embodiments, the medical device 404 and / or the client device 406 can communicate indirectly with the charging device 402 via the remote device 408. For example, in one or more embodiments, the medical device 404 and the client device 406 can be paired to communicate directly over a wireless point-to-point personal area network, with the client device 406 communicating with the remote device 408 over a cellular communication network or the Internet, and the remote device 408 in turn communicating with the charging device 402 over the Internet or another suitable communication network. In this regard, the subject matter described herein is not limited to any particular type, combination, or network arrangement of devices that can be used to facilitate communication and support the subject matter described herein.

[0065] The medical device 404 generally represents a component of the patient management system 400 that is configured to support management or monitoring of a patient’s physiological condition. In one or more embodiments, the medical device 404 is implemented as an infusion device that is configured to deliver a fluid, such as insulin, to a patient’s body. In such embodiments, the infusion device 404 can employ a closed-loop control or other delivery control scheme that varies insulin delivery in a manner that is influenced by a current glucose level of the patient received via a sensing element or other sensing device. That is, in other embodiments, the medical device 404 can be implemented as a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) device or another independent sensing or monitoring device, such as a gap glucose sensing arrangement or the like. Thus, the subject matter described herein is not limited to use with any particular type or configuration of portable medical device 404.

[0066] In example embodiments, the medical device 404 generally includes a processing system, data storage elements (or memory), a communication interface, and a user interface. In this regard, the communication interface generally represents the hardware, circuitry, logic, firmware, and / or other components of the medical device 404 that are coupled to the processing system to output data and / or information from the medical device 404 to another device 402, 406, 408 in the patient management system 400 and / or from the other device to the medical device. For example, the communication interface can include or otherwise be coupled to one or more transceiver modules capable of supporting wireless communication between the medical device 404 and the client device 406, such as a Bluetooth transceiver or adapter configured to support Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication.

[0067] In example embodiments, the client device 406 is implemented as a mobile phone, smartphone, tablet computer, or other similar mobile electronic device; however, in other embodiments, the client device 406 can be implemented as any sort of electronic device capable of communicating with the medical device 404 and one or more other devices 402, 408 in the patient management system 400 via one or more communication networks, such as a laptop or notebook computer, desktop computer, etc. In some embodiments, a user such as a patient, a physician of the patient, or another healthcare provider manipulates the client device 406 to execute a client application that supports communication with the medical device 404 and / or other devices 402, 408 in the patient monitoring system 400. For example, the client application at the client device 406 can be configured to establish an association (or pairing) with the medical device 404 and / or the charging device 402 over a network to support subsequent establishment of a point-to-point communication session between the client device 406 and the respective one of the medical device 404 and / or the charging device 402. For example, according to one embodiment, the client device 406 can pair with the respective one of the medical device 404 and / or the charging device 402 over a Bluetooth network by executing a discovery procedure or another suitable pairing procedure, such as by obtaining and storing network identification information for the respective device 402, 404. The pairing information obtained during the discovery procedure allows either of the respectively paired devices to initiate establishment of a secure communication session via a wireless personal area network.

[0068] In one or more exemplary embodiments, the client application is further configured to store or otherwise maintain the network address and / or other identifying information of the remote device 408 on another communication network, which can be physically and / or logically distinct from the network used to communicate with the respective one of the devices 402, 404, such as the Internet, a cellular network, a wide area network (WAN), etc. In this regard, the remote device 408 generally represents a server or other computing device configured to receive and analyze or otherwise monitor the measurement data, event log data, or possibly other information obtained for a patient associated with the device 402, 404. In some embodiments, the remote device 408 can be coupled to a database configured to store or otherwise maintain data associated with individual patients. Indeed, the remote device 408 can reside at a physically distinct and / or separate location from the other devices 402, 404, 406, such as at a facility owned and / or operated by a manufacturer of the medical device 404 or otherwise affiliated with the manufacturer. For purposes of explanation but not limitation, the remote device 408 can be alternatively referred to herein as a server.

[0069] Still referring to Figure 4 , the illustrated embodiment depicts a charging device 402 (e.g., the charging device 102) managing the charging of a currently unused energy storage element 410 while another energy storage element 412 is discharging during use of the medical device 404. In a similar manner as described above in the context of Figure 1 , the energy storage elements 410, 412 are not limited to any particular type of energy storage element; however, for purposes of explanation but not limitation, the subject matter is described in the context of the energy storage elements 410, 412 being implemented as rechargeable batteries. For example, in one or more embodiments, the charging device 402 is implemented as a battery charger or the like that charges an instance of a rechargeable battery 410 that is replaceable for another instance of a rechargeable battery 412 used for the medical device 404. In other embodiments, the charging device 402 can be implemented as a duplicate or redundant instance of the medical device 404 that is currently being charged while another instance of the medical device 404 is being used by a patient. For example, the medical device 404 can be implemented as an infusion device that is currently being used by a patient to regulate their blood glucose condition, while the charging device 402 is implemented as another instance of the infusion device that is being charged for later use (e.g., when the other infusion device 404 needs recharging, reservoir refilling, cannula replacement, and / or site rotation, etc.).

[0070] Referring to Figure 4 , with reference to Figures 1 to 2 , in one or more exemplary embodiments, the charging device 402 implements or otherwise executes the above-described method 400 of FIG. 4. For example, the charging device 402 can be implemented as a battery charger or the like that charges an instance of a rechargeable battery 410 that is replaceable for another instance of a rechargeable battery 412 used for the medical device 404. In other embodiments, the charging device 402 can be implemented as a duplicate or redundant instance of the medical device 404 that is currently being charged while another instance of the medical device 404 is being used by a patient. For example, the medical device 404 can be implemented as an infusion device that is currently being used by a patient to regulate their blood glucose condition, while the charging device 402 is implemented as another instance of the infusion device that is being charged for later use (e.g., when the other infusion device 404 needs recharging, reservoir refilling, cannula replacement, and / or site rotation, etc.). Figure 2the dynamic charging process 200 described in the context of FIG. 2 to manage charging of the battery 410 (e.g., battery 106). For example, when the charging device 402 is plugged into an external power source, or the battery 410 is removed or otherwise exchanged from the medical device 404 to the charging device 402, the charging device 402 detects the connection event and initializes a timer or counter to track time (e.g., task 202) on the battery 410 while charging. As described above, the charging device 402 can also determine the duration of a previous use or discharge cycle of the battery 410, i.e., the duration that the battery 410 was previously used by the medical device 404 or by the charging device 402 (e.g., based on the duration elapsed since a previous disconnect event with respect to the battery 410) when the charging device 402 is a duplicate or redundant instance of the medical device 404. The charging device 402 also records the initial state of charge of the battery 410, the initial voltage of the battery 410, etc., in order to dynamically adapt the upcoming charging cycle to account for and effectively learn from the previous use cycle.

[0071] Based on the historical use data associated with the battery 410, the charging device 402 calculates or otherwise determines an estimated readiness time when the current charging cycle is expected to terminate and the battery 410 is expected to return to use (e.g., by a user replacing a recharged battery 410 for a previously used battery 412 by the medical device 404) as well as a target final state of charge for the current charging cycle (e.g., tasks 204, 206). Using the initial state of charge of the battery 410 at the beginning of the charging cycle, the charging device 402 determines an estimated amount of time required to charge the battery 410 to the target final state of charge and recharges the battery 410 to a hold charge state at a reduced charging rate for the remaining amount of time allowed (e.g., tasks 208, 210, 212, 214). In this way, the dynamic charging process 200 limits the temperature of the battery 410 during charging while also extending the duration that the battery 410 is maintained in the hold charge state to minimize degradation. Thereafter, as time approaches the estimated readiness time, the charging device 402 can automatically resume charging the battery 410 to the target state of charge at or before the estimated time that the battery 410 is expected to return to use (e.g., a predicted time when a patient will replace a discharged battery 412 currently on the medical device 404 with a recharged battery 410). By using the dynamic charging process 200 for both batteries 410, 412, the operating range of the state of charge of the batteries 410, 412 can be optimized and adjusted over time with respect to the usage patterns or behavior of individual patients with respect to the medical device 404 while also minimizing degradation of the batteries 410, 412 by reducing the charging current and increasing the duration that the batteries 410, 412 are maintained in the intermediate hold charge state that minimizes degradation.

[0072] Referring now toFigure 5 With continued reference to Figures 1 to 4 In a networked environment, communication between devices 402, 404, 406, 408 in patient monitoring system 400 can be used to dynamically adjust the estimated or predicted point in time at which a battery 410 is expected to return to service for use in real time to further improve management of the condition of battery 410. For example, where a currently in-use battery 412 is expected to remain in use significantly longer than initially anticipated, the estimated ready time can be delayed or further postponed into the future to extend the duration of time that a charging battery 410 is maintained in a holding charged state, rather than having the charging battery 410 remain in a relatively higher final charged state for an additional duration of time that another battery 412 remains in use. Conversely, where a charging battery 410 can return to use earlier than initially anticipated, the estimated ready time can be advanced closer to the current time to increase the likelihood that the battery 410 reaches a target final charged state prior to returning to use, which in turn reduces the likelihood that the battery 410 discharges below a minimum charged state in the next use cycle.

[0073] The various tasks performed in connection with networked charging process 500 can be performed by hardware, firmware, software executed by processing circuitry, or any combination thereof. For purposes of illustration, the following description relates to elements mentioned above in connection with Figures 1 to 4 For purposes of explanation, networked charging process 500 can be described herein primarily in the context of being implemented by a charging device 102, 402. It should be understood that networked charging process 500 can incorporate any number of additional or alternative tasks, the tasks need not be performed in the illustrated order and / or the tasks can be performed concurrently, and / or networked charging process 500 can be incorporated into a more comprehensive procedure or process having additional functionality not described in detail herein. In addition, one or more of the tasks shown and described in the context of Figure 5 may be omitted from a practical embodiment of networked charging process 500 so long as the intended overall functionality remains intact.

[0074] The networked charging process 500 is initialized or otherwise started by monitoring a communication network for an indication of an adjusted readiness time for terminating the charging process during performance of the charging process (task 502). In this regard, the control system 110 and / or processing module 112 of the charging device 102, 402 can periodically or continuously monitor the communication interface 120 associated with the charging device 102, 402 for communications that indicate a point in time when the battery 106, 410 being charged by the charging device 102, 402 should be ready for use. It should be noted that there are any number of different conditions that can be detected by any of the devices 404, 406, 408 in the patient monitoring system 400 and used to determine an estimated readiness time that triggers acceleration or delay of charging of the battery 402 in real-time, and the subject matter is not intended to be limited to any particular condition or criteria for adjusting the estimated readiness time.

[0075] For example, in one or more embodiments, the charging device 102, 402 can monitor wireless communications from a paired device 404, 406 over a wireless personal area network. In this regard, a medical device 404 or client device 406 paired with the charging device 402 can transmit or otherwise provide a communication that initiates establishment of a communication session for providing one or more indicia of an estimated readiness time to the charging device 402. In such embodiments, the medical device 404 or client device 406 detects or otherwise identifies a condition associated with the medical device 404 or a patient associated with the medical device 404, which in turn triggers an indication of the estimated readiness time. For example, an application or other software module executing at the respective device 404, 406 can continuously monitor a status of the battery in use 412 (e.g., a current state of charge, a current battery voltage, etc.) and provide an indication to accelerate or delay charging of the battery 410 based on the current status of the battery in use 412. In this regard, when the current state of charge or voltage of the battery in use 412 is less than a threshold (e.g., a minimum state of charge threshold), the medical device 404 can determine to accelerate charging of the battery 410 to facilitate a patient replacing the battery 410, 412 or device 402, 404. In some embodiments, the medical device 404 provides a notification to the client device 406, which in turn initiates a communication with the paired charging device 402 to provide the indication to the charging device 402. Conversely, if the battery in use 412 is discharging at a slower rate than an expected rate such that the current state of charge or voltage of the battery in use 412 remains above a certain threshold after a certain period of time, the medical device 404 can determine that charging of the battery 410 can be delayed to accommodate a longer usage cycle than an expected usage cycle of the battery in use 412.

[0076] As another example, when each of the charging device 402 and the medical device 404 is implemented as an infusion device, the in-use infusion device 404 and / or the client device 406 can detect a low fluid state (e.g., less than a threshold amount of fluid remaining on the in-use infusion device), an occlusion condition, an insertion site rotation condition, or another abnormal condition in which the in-use infusion device 404 can be prematurely removed from use in favor of a redundant infusion device 402 that is currently charging. As yet another example, the medical device 404 and / or the client device 406 can analyze contextual data associated with the patient to identify a contextual state or condition that triggers an indication to accelerate or delay charging of the battery 410. For example, geolocation data provided by a global positioning system (GPS) receiver or similar feature of the devices 404, 406 can determine whether to accelerate or delay charging based on a current geolocation of the patient relative to a geolocation of the charging device 402. Thus, when the patient is away from home for an extended period of time while the charging device 402 located at the patient's home is charging the battery 410, the medical device 404 and / or the client device 406 can determine that charging of the battery 410 can be delayed. In such a case, instead of the wireless PAN, the medical device 404 and / or the client device 406 can provide an indication of the delayed charging to the remote device 408 over a communication network such as the Internet or a cellular network. In this regard, in such embodiments, the charging device 402 can periodically poll the remote device 408 over the Internet for an indication of the estimated ready time, or alternatively, the remote device 408 can automatically push an indication of the estimated ready time received from one of the devices 404, 406 to the charging device 402.

[0077] Still referring to Figure 5 , the networked charging process 500 continues by receiving or otherwise obtaining the adjusted charge termination time, and in response to the adjusted ready time, the adjusted ready time dynamically determines an updated amount of time remaining for the charging process and dynamically adjusts the charging process based on the updated amount of time remaining (tasks 504, 506, 508). In this regard, when the charging device 102, 402 receives an indication of an earlier ready time than previously expected, the charging device 102, 402 can accelerate charging or otherwise alter the charging process to increase the likelihood of achieving the target final charge state within the remaining amount of time available for charging. Conversely, when the charging device 102, 402 receives an indication of a later ready time than previously expected, the charging device 102, 402 can delay charging or otherwise alter the charging process to reduce the duration of time the battery 106, 410 spends at the final charge state, reduce the charging current (or temperature of the battery) flowing to the battery 106, 410, increase the duration of time spent maintaining the charge state, or take other actions to mitigate degradation of the battery 106, 410.

[0078] Referring Figure 5 , referring Figures 1 to 4 , in some embodiments, the networked charging process 500 is implemented in conjunction with the dynamic charging process 200 described above in the context of Figure 2 In such embodiments, as the charging device 102, 402 manages the charging current and charging state during the dynamic charging process 200, the control system 110 and / or processing module 112 monitors, through the communication interface 120, for possible adjustments to the readiness time. Thus, in the absence of any indication of an adjusted readiness time, the charging device 102, 402 charges the battery 106, 410 at the reduced charging rate until the hold charging state is reached. However, in response to receiving an adjusted readiness time, the charging device 102, 402 dynamically updates the remaining estimated amount of time to charge the battery 106, 410, which in turn affects the manner in which the dynamic charging process 200 subsequently manages the charging state of the battery 106, 410 (e.g., task 210).

[0079] For example, when another device 404, 406, 408 in the patient monitoring system 400 transmits an indication of an earlier estimated readiness time to the charging device 102, 402, this results in an updated estimated amount of time remaining to complete charging that is less than the time required to charge the battery 106, 410 to the target final charging state at the given current charging state, the charging device 102, 402 automatically begins charging the battery 106, 410 toward the target final charging state. In some embodiments, the charging device 102, 402 automatically completes charging using the maximum rate supported by the battery 106, 410 (e.g., i C =C) to increase the likelihood of reaching the target final charging state. However, in other embodiments, the charging device 102, 402 can operate the power conversion arrangement 104 to charge the battery 106, 410 at a reduced rate (e.g., i C =C / 4) in a similar manner as described above if the amount of time remaining allows. Thus, if for some reason the medical device 404 or client device 406 identifies that the charged battery 410 needs to be returned for use during what would otherwise be the initial charging phase or the period of time the charged battery 410 has remained in the hold charging state (e.g., the medical device 404 is running low on fluid to be infused, the battery 412 in use is discharging at a faster rate than expected, etc.), the charging of the battery 410 can be expedited to allow the battery 410 to be returned to use more quickly.

[0080] In contrast, in the case where another device 404, 406, 408 in the patient monitoring system 400 transmits an indication of a later readiness time to the charging device 102, 402 to increase the amount of time remaining to complete charging, the charging device 102, 402 can automatically decrease the charging rate or otherwise increase the duration spent in the hold-charge state. For example, when the geographic location of the medical device 404 or the client device 406 or other contextual data associated with the medical device 404 or the client device 406 indicates that the patient can not be able to return the charged battery 106, 410 for use for some time, a corresponding notification of the later readiness time can be provided to the charging device 102, 402, which in turn can decrease the charging current and / or increase the duration that the battery 106, 410 is maintained in the hold-charge state. Thereafter, when one of the devices 404, 406 detects a change in contextual data indicating that the patient can be returning the charged battery 106, 410 for use (e.g., GPS location data indicating that the patient is on the way home), one of the devices 404, 406 can transmit or otherwise provide a notification of an updated readiness time that reflects the change in operating context. In this regard, the updated readiness time can result in a remaining updated estimated amount of time for the charging cycle that is less than the time required to charge the battery 106, 410 to the target final charge state, thereby triggering the charging device 102, 402 to automatically charge the battery 106, 410 to the target final charge state at the maximum rate supported by the battery 106, 410. Thus, in addition to the dynamic charging process 200 that adapts to the patient’s historical behavior, the networked charging process 500 can be used to further adapt the current charging cycle to the patient’s current behavior in substantially real-time. In some embodiments, when an indication of a later readiness time is received during the final charging phase or after the battery 106, 410 has reached the target final charge state, the charging device 102, 402 can automatically discharge the battery 106, 410 back down to the hold-charge state when the remaining updated amount of time is greater than a threshold, thereby mitigating possible degradation or aging due to time spent at a higher charge state.

[0081] It should be noted that in some embodiments, the indication of the adjustment to the estimated readiness time can also include or otherwise be accompanied by an indication of the adjusted final charge state for the current charging cycle of the battery 106, 410. For example, in addition to providing an indication of an earlier readiness time when the battery 412 in use becomes depleted or discharged faster than expected, the medical device 404 or the client device 406 can provide an increased target final charge state to the charged battery 410 to proactively compensate for the potentially increased rate of discharge. Thus, when combined with the indication of the adjusted final charge state, the indication of the adjusted readiness time can provide the charging device 102, 402 with sufficient information to automatically adjust the charging rate and / or the duration spent in the hold-charge state to maintain the battery 106, 410 at the adjusted final charge state until the battery 106, 410 is returned for use. Figure 2In addition to dynamically determining the amount of remaining update available time, the charging device 102, 402 also dynamically determines an updated amount of time required to charge the battery 106, 410 that reflects the adjusted final state of charge target (e.g., task 208) when the dynamic charging process 200 is implemented. Thus, adjustments to the ready time or final state of charge target can affect the manner in which charging of the battery 106, 410 is completed. In equivalent fashion, the medical device 404 or client device 406 can provide a reduced target final state of charge that can delay the final charging phase, reduce the final charging phase charging current, and / or extend the duration spent in the holding charge state. In this regard, it is noted that in some embodiments, the networked charging process 500 can be implemented in equivalent fashion and achieve equivalent functionality by adjusting the target final state of charge of the battery 106, 410 without adjusting the estimated ready time.

[0082] In other embodiments, the charging device 102, 402 can be configured to automatically determine an updated final state of charge target based on adjustments to the ready time. For example, in response to an indication that the ready time is advanced and the duration of the charging cycle is reduced by 5%, the control system 110 and / or processing module 112 can automatically increase the target final state of charge by 5% to account for a potentially increased rate of discharge during the upcoming use cycle or a potentially extended duration of use of the battery 106, 410 during the upcoming use cycle.

[0083] With the aid of the networked charging process 500, charging of currently unused batteries 410 can be managed in a manner that mitigates degradation of the batteries 410 while also facilitating availability of the batteries 410 for return to use as needed in response to unpredictable changes or variations. This is advantageous for medical applications that require substantially uninterrupted use of the medical device 404 (e.g., closed loop blood glucose control, continuous glucose monitoring, etc.). For example, when the medical device 404 is implemented as a portable insulin infusion device that provides closed loop control of a patient’s glucose level, improved blood glucose control can be achieved by having another charged battery 410 ready for deployment when the battery 412 in use prematurely discharges or is otherwise depleted. Thus, when the battery 412 in use falls below a threshold state of charge, the charging device 402 can be notified via the network to complete charging of the battery 410 so that the battery 410, 412 can be replaced with limited interruption to the closed loop blood glucose control provided by the infusion device 404. Likewise, when the charging device 402 is implemented as a redundant instance of a medical device 404 that requires premature or unexpected recharging, replacement, maintenance, or other modification, the charging device 402 can be notified to complete charging so that the patient can replace the device 402, 404 with limited interruption or inconvenience. Additionally, by integrating the networked charging process 500 with the dynamic charging process 200 that accommodates the patient’s historical behavior, the life and performance of the batteries 410, 412 can be extended, thereby reducing battery replacement costs and further improving the patient experience.

[0084] For the sake of brevity, conventional techniques related to batteries and energy storage, power conversion and charging, portable electronic devices, infusion systems, and other functional aspects of the subject can not be described in detail herein. Furthermore, certain terminology can also be used in the description for the sake of brevity. For example, the terms “first,” “second,” and other such numerical terms referring to structures do not imply a serial or chronological order unless specifically stated by the context. The foregoing description can also refer to elements or nodes or features being “connected” or “coupled” together. As used herein, unless specifically stated otherwise, “coupled” means that one element / node / feature is either directly or indirectly connected to (or in communication with) another element / node / feature, and that the connection is mechanical or not necessarily mechanical. Accordingly, although individual drawings can depict a direct electrical connection between components, alternative embodiments can employ intermediate circuit elements and / or components without departing from the essence of the subject matter.

[0085] While at least one example embodiment has been presented in the foregoing detailed description, it should be appreciated that a multitude of modifications can be made. It should also be appreciated that the example embodiment or embodiments described herein are not intended to limit the scope, applicability or configuration of the claimed subject matter in any way. For example, the claimed subject matter is not limited to the infusion devices and related systems described herein. Additionally, the foregoing detailed description has set forth various example embodiments of the claimed subject matter. It should be understood that these inventive embodiments can be practiced with the specific reagents or equipment as described or with other reagents or equipment. Changes in reagents or equipment can have some effect on procedures disclosed herein which are intended to be within the scope of the claimed subject matter. The terms “comprising,” “including,” containing,” etc. shall be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,” “comprising, but not limited to,” “containing, but not limited to,” etc.) so as to allow for items, components, and / or elements not explicitly stated to be included. Thus, it is intended that aspects of the claimed subject matter can be practiced without such items, components, and / or elements.

Claims

1. A processor-implemented method comprising: Obtain the first estimated readiness time of the energy storage element (106); Obtain the target charging state of the energy storage element (106); The estimated charging time is calculated at least in part based on (a) a first charging rate and (b) the difference between the target charging state and the current charging state of the energy storage element (106); In response to determining that the amount of time remaining before the first estimated readiness time is greater than the estimated charging time, the energy storage element (106) is charged to an intermediate charging state using the first charging rate. The energy storage element (106) is maintained in the intermediate charging state; The updated estimated charging time is determined based on (a) the first charging rate and (b) the difference between the target charging state and the intermediate charging state; Obtain an indication of a second estimated readiness time that is earlier than the first estimated readiness time; It is determined that the amount of time remaining before the second estimated readiness time is less than the updated estimated charging time; as well as In response to determining that the amount of time remaining before reaching the second estimated readiness time is less than the updated estimated charging time, the energy storage element (106) is charged to the target charging state using a second charging rate, and The second charging rate is greater than the first charging rate.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein obtaining the first estimated readiness time comprises determining the first estimated readiness time based on historical usage data associated with the energy storage element (106).

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the historical usage data includes timestamped data associated with previous charging cycles, and wherein determining the first estimated readiness time includes: The duration of the previous charging cycle is determined at least in part based on the timestamped data; as well as The first estimated ready time is determined at least in part based on the average of the corresponding durations of the previous charging cycles, relative to the initial time of the current charging cycle.

4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein obtaining the target state of charge includes determining the target state of charge based on historical usage data associated with the energy storage element (106).

5. The method of claim 4, wherein determining the target state of charge includes adding the average discharge amount associated with the energy storage element (106) over one or more previous use cycles to a desired minimum state of charge threshold.

6. The method of claim 5, further comprising determining the corresponding discharge of each of the one or more previous use cycles based at least in part on the difference between the final state of charge associated with a previous charging cycle and the initial state of charge of the energy storage element (106) of the current charging cycle.

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein calculating the estimated charging time comprises: The first estimated duration of the initial charging phase is determined based on the difference between the current charging state and the intermediate charging state and the first charging rate; The second estimated duration of the final charging phase is determined based on the difference between the target charging state and the intermediate charging state and the second charging rate; as well as The estimated charging time is determined based on the sum of the first estimated duration and the second estimated duration.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein determining the estimated charging time includes adding a buffer time amount to the sum of the first estimated duration and the second estimated duration.

9. The method of claim 8, further comprising determining the buffer time amount based at least in part on the standard deviation associated with the duration of a previous charging cycle, wherein the estimated ready time is determined relative to the initial time of the current charging cycle based at least in part on the average duration of the previous charging cycles.

10. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein obtaining the indication of the second estimated readiness time includes receiving the indication of the second estimated readiness time via a network.

11. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein obtaining the target charging state includes receiving an indication of the target charging state via a network.

12. One or more non-transitory processor-readable storage media, the non-transitory processor-readable storage media storing instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the following operations to be performed: Obtain the first estimated readiness time of the energy storage element (106); Obtain the target charging state of the energy storage element (106); The estimated charging time is calculated at least in part based on (a) a first charging rate and (b) the difference between the target charging state and the current charging state of the energy storage element (106); In response to determining that the amount of time remaining before the first estimated readiness time is greater than the estimated charging time, the energy storage element (106) is charged to an intermediate charging state using the first charging rate. The energy storage element (106) is maintained in the intermediate charging state; The updated estimated charging time is determined based on (a) the first charging rate and (b) the difference between the target charging state and the intermediate charging state; Obtain an indication of a second estimated readiness time that is earlier than the first estimated readiness time; It is determined that the amount of time remaining before the second estimated readiness time is less than the updated estimated charging time; as well as In response to determining that the amount of time remaining before reaching the second estimated readiness time is less than the updated estimated charging time, the energy storage element (106) is charged to the target charging state using a second charging rate, and The second charging rate is greater than the first charging rate.

13. A system comprising: One or more processors; as well as One or more processor-readable storage media, the processor-readable storage media storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the following operations to be performed: Obtain the first estimated readiness time of the energy storage element (106); Obtain the target charging state of the energy storage element (106); The estimated charging time is calculated at least in part based on (a) a first charging rate and (b) the difference between the target charging state and the current charging state of the energy storage element (106); In response to determining that the amount of time remaining before the first estimated readiness time is greater than the estimated charging time, the energy storage element (106) is charged to an intermediate charging state using the first charging rate. The energy storage element (106) is maintained in the intermediate charging state; The updated estimated charging time is determined based on (a) the first charging rate and (b) the difference between the target charging state and the intermediate charging state; Obtain an indication of a second estimated readiness time that is earlier than the first estimated readiness time; It is determined that the amount of time remaining before the second estimated readiness time is less than the updated estimated charging time; as well as In response to determining that the amount of time remaining before reaching the second estimated readiness time is less than the updated estimated charging time, the energy storage element (106) is charged to the target charging state using a second charging rate, and The second charging rate is greater than the first charging rate.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the portable medical device or battery charger includes one or more of the processors.

15. The system of claim 13, wherein the second charging rate corresponds to the maximum charging current capability associated with the energy storage element (106).

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