Multifunctional wireless module monitoring system in battery management system

Abstract

Methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for utilizing a multi-functional wireless module monitoring system (MMS) in a battery pack are disclosed. In particular embodiments, utilizing a multi-functional wireless MMS in a battery pack includes the multi-functional wireless MMS monitoring one or more properties of a plurality of battery cells in the battery pack and generating battery sensor data based on the monitored one or more properties. Responsive to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in a first operating mode, the multi-functional wireless MMS transmits a first set of battery sensor data to a wireless network controller (WNC) of a battery management system (BMS) via a wireless interface. Responsive to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in a second operating mode, the multi-functional wireless MMS transmits a second set of battery sensor data via a wired interface.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD BACKGROUND

[0001] Electric vehicles are powered by high-voltage battery systems that include multiple battery cells. Wireless battery management systems are used to monitor various properties of the battery cells, including voltage, temperature, and current, in order to ensure proper and safe operation of the battery. In conventional wired battery management systems, multiple battery cells of a battery are grouped into modules, with each module having components for monitoring these properties. Each of these components is wired to a central controller. Issues arising from this solution include lack of flexibility in packaging design, waste of space due to connectors and wiring inside the battery pack, and challenges to increase the secondary life usage of the battery. SUMMARY

[0002] Methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for utilizing a multi-functional wireless module monitoring system (MMS) in a battery pack are disclosed. In particular embodiments, utilizing the multi-functional wireless MMS in a battery pack includes the multi-functional wireless MMS monitoring one or more properties of a plurality of battery cells in the battery pack and generating battery sensor data based on the monitored one or more properties. In response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in a first operating mode, the multi-functional wireless MMS transmits a first set of battery sensor data to a wireless network controller (WNC) of a battery management system (BMS) via a wireless interface. In response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in a second operating mode, the multi-functional wireless MMS transmits a second set of battery sensor data via a wired interface.

[0003] The capabilities and functionality of the second operating mode, in which the multi-functional wireless MMS is able to use the wired interface to transmit battery sensor data, allow the battery pack to be repurposed and reused in a second application that utilizes the wired interface to report monitoring of the battery cells without having to replace the MMS. As will be further explained below, having the capability to repurpose and reuse the battery pack without replacing the MMS increases the performance and value of the battery pack and the MMS.

[0004] The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present application will be more apparent from the following more particular description thereof, presented in illustration with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals generally designate identical, corresponding, or similar components for the sake of clarity and ease of understanding. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0005] Figure 1a block diagram of a system for utilizing a multi-functional wireless monitoring system (MMS) according to embodiments of the present disclosure is set forth;

[0006] Figure 2A a block diagram of a multi-functional wireless MMS according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is set forth;

[0007] Figure 2B a block diagram of a multi-functional wireless MMS according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is set forth;

[0008] Figure 3 a block diagram of a wireless network controller for use with a multi-functional wireless MMS according to embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0009] Figure 4 a flow diagram illustrating implementation of a method for utilizing a multi-functional wireless MMS according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is set forth;

[0010] Figure 5 a flow diagram illustrating implementation of a method for utilizing a multi-functional wireless MMS according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is set forth;

[0011] Figure 6 a flow diagram illustrating implementation of a method for utilizing a multi-functional wireless MMS according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is set forth;

[0012] Figure 7 a flow diagram illustrating implementation of a method for utilizing a multi-functional wireless MMS according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is set forth;

[0013] Figure 8 a flow diagram illustrating implementation of a method for utilizing a multi-functional wireless MMS according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is set forth;

[0014] Figure 9 a flow diagram illustrating implementation of a method for utilizing a multi-functional wireless MMS according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is set forth; and

[0015] Figure 10 a flow diagram illustrating implementation of a method for utilizing a multi-functional wireless MMS according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure is set forth. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] The terminology used herein for the purpose of describing particular examples is not intended to be limiting for further examples. Whenever a singular form such as "a," "an" and "the" is used in conjunction with a term such as "comprising," "including," "containing," and / or "having," it is contemplated that further examples can also be made without using the singular and / or plural form of the term. Also, as used herein, "exemplary" merely means "serving as an example," "example," and "exemplary example." Furthermore, the

[0017] It is to be understood that when an element is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to another element, it can be directly connected or coupled or connected or coupled via one or more intervening elements. If two elements A and B are combined using an "or," the combination is disclosed to occur, unless two or more alternative are expressly identified, e.g., "A or B, but not both." An alternative for the phrase "at least one of' is "one or more of.

[0018] Accordingly, while further examples are capable of various modifications and alternative forms, specific examples thereof are shown in the drawings and subsequently described in detail. However, it should be understood that the detailed description is not intended to limit the further examples to the particular form disclosed. Further examples can cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar elements, which can implement the same function or a modified version thereof alike in different figures, while providing the same or similar functionality, while providing the same or similar functionality.

[0019] From Figure 1 Beginning with a description of example methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for utilizing a multi-functional wireless module monitoring system (MMS) in a battery management system in accordance with the present disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1An illustration of a system for utilizing multi-functional wireless MMS in a battery management system according to embodiments of the present disclosure is set forth. The system includes a battery pack (102), such as a high-voltage battery used in an electric vehicle. The battery pack (102) includes a plurality of battery cells (104a-n), such as lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery cells. The battery cells (104a-n) are grouped into modules (106a-n) such that each module (106a-n) includes a corresponding subset of the battery cells (104a-n). The battery cells (104a-n) can be physically grouped into modules (106a-n) using a box, tray, or other housing. The battery cells (104a-n) can also be logically grouped into modules (106a-n) by virtue of different groupings of battery cells (104a-n) monitored by different module monitoring systems (108a-n), as will be described below.

[0020] The system also includes a battery management system (110). The battery management system (110) monitors various properties of the battery cells (104a-n) and provides battery sensor data indicative of these properties to a vehicle control system (112). The battery management system (110) includes a plurality of multi-functional wireless module monitoring systems (hereinafter “MMS”) (108a-n). Each MMS (108a-n) is configured to monitor a corresponding module (106a-n) of battery cells (104a-n). For example, each module (106a-n) can have an MMS (108a-n) attached to a tray, base, pallet, or other mechanism that holds the battery cells (104a-n) of the module (106a-n). Each MMS (108a-n) includes sensors for measuring various properties of the battery cells (104a-n) of its corresponding module (106a-n). Such properties can include voltage, current, temperature, and potentially other properties. The properties are indicated in battery sensor data generated by the MMS (108a-n).

[0021] Each MMS (108a-n) is configured to operate in a first mode of operation in which the MMS encodes its battery sensor data for transmission as a wireless signal and transmits its battery sensor data (e.g., via a 2.4 Ghz wireless channel) to a wireless network controller (WNC) (114). In some embodiments, the WNC (114) then sends the battery sensor data received from the MMS (108a-n) to a vehicle control system (VCS) (112) using a wired or wireless communication channel. The VCS (112) can include a central “computer” of the vehicle. The VCS (112) can be a central control unit or can be collectively referred to as one or more vehicle subsystems.

[0022] Modules (106a-n) of an electric vehicle battery pack (102) are often repurposed in other electric devices, such as electric bicycles, scooters, battery back-up systems (UPS), RVs / boats, and hybrid vehicles. For example, assume that the battery cells (104a-n) in a given module (106a-n) are each collectively 48 volts, a single module (106a) can be repurposed in a 48-volt battery system. Such repurposed battery systems can recover energy through regenerative braking and provide power to electric motors that drive the vehicle, or to 12V accessory DC / DC converters. Typically, repurposing a module (106a-n) will require testing and validation of the module (106a-n) condition, and existing module monitoring circuitry (e.g., MMS (108a-n)) will need to be replaced with a suitable low-voltage battery management system (BMS) (e.g., a “mini-BMS”).

[0023] In Figure 1 examples, the multi-functional wireless MMS can be configured to operate in a second operating mode in which the MMS functions as a mini-BMS. The multi-functional wireless MMS (108a-n) shares many features with a mini-BMS in the main hardware block. For example, both the multi-functional wireless module monitoring circuitry and the mini-BMS can include a Radio Frequency System on a Chip (RF SoC) that includes an Analog Front End (AFE) and a Micro-control Unit (MCU). To facilitate repurposing of modules (106a-n) of an electric vehicle battery pack (102) in another battery system, such as in a MMS (200) of Figure 2A and in a MMS (250) of Figure 2B each MMS (108a-n) can also include current sensing capabilities and a wired interface.

[0024] To further explain, Figure 2A a multi-functional wireless module monitoring system (MMS) (200) (e.g., a MMS (108a-n)) used in a wireless sensor network having a secure wireless protocol according to embodiments of the present disclosure is set forth. Figure 1A block diagram of a multifunctional wireless module monitoring system (108a-n) is provided. The MMS (200) includes a controller (201) coupled to a memory (203). The controller (201) is configured to obtain sensor readings from sensors (205) (e.g., voltage sensors, temperature sensors, current sensors) to generate battery sensor data (e.g., voltage data (207), temperature data (209), current data (211)). According to this disclosure, the controller (201) may include or implement a microcontroller, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a programmable logic array (PLA) such as a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other data computing units. The battery sensor data (e.g., voltage data (207), temperature data (209), current data (211)) may be stored in the memory (203). The memory (203) may be a non-volatile memory, such as flash memory.

[0025] The sensor (205) is configured to measure properties (e.g., voltage, temperature, current) of the battery cells (e.g., battery cells (104a-n) of the module on which the MMS (200) is mounted. Figure 2A In the example, the MMS (200) includes a transceiver or a wireless interface (213) coupled to the controller (201) and a wired interface (212). In a particular embodiment, in response to the MMS (200) operating in a first operating mode, the MMS (200) uses the transceiver to transmit battery sensor data to the wireless network controller (WNC) of the battery management system (BMS), and in response to the MMS (200) operating in a second operating mode, the MMS (200) can use the wired interface to transmit battery sensor data.

[0026] exist Figure 2B In the example, the MMS (250) may include current sensing capability via a Hall or shunt sensor (299), and the MMS (250) may be connected to a general purpose input / output (GPIO) probe of the AFE (289) or a dedicated current sensing input of the AFE. A wired interface (287) may be coupled to the MCU (288) of the RF SoC (286). The wired interface may include outputs such as a charge enable / disable signal, a discharge enable / disable signal, a charge status indicator via an analog signal corresponding to a predetermined range of 0-100% (e.g., 0-5V or 4-20mA), a charge / discharge current limit indicator via an analog signal range (e.g., 0-5V or 4-20mA), and / or a power supply.

[0027] One or more modules implemented on the MMS (250) (e.g., software modules executing on the RF SoC, software modules executing on the MCU of the RF SoC, dedicated logic on the RF SoC) can facilitate switching between a first mode of operation (e.g., MMS mode) and a second mode of operation (e.g., BMS mode). The MMS mode allows the MMS (250) to perform operations associated with the MMS (108a-n) for monitoring one of the plurality of modules (106a-n) in the battery pack (102). The BMS mode allows the MMS (250) to perform operations for monitoring the changing use module (106a-n) in a battery system powered by a single changing use module (106a-n). For example, when in MMS mode, the MMS (250) can be configured to use a first protocol (e.g., a proprietary protocol) to communicate with the WNC (114) using a wireless interface (e.g., a 2.4 GHz interface (285)), a wired interface can not be used or coupled to other components. When in BMS mode, the wireless interface can instead use a second protocol such as a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) protocol, and use the wired interface to report monitored attributes. For example, the use of the BLE protocol allows for the use of a mobile device to monitor battery conditions. Other service applications can also use the BLE protocol to perform. Further, the MMS (250) can store historical information and health information of the corresponding monitored module (106a-n) during use in the battery pack (102). Such historical information and health information can be used to rate, assess, or otherwise determine the status of the module (106a-n) to change use in another battery system.

[0028] To further explain, Figure 3 A wireless network controller (WNC) (300) for use with a multi-functional wireless MMS (e.g., a battery monitor system (100)) according to embodiments of the present disclosure is set forth. Figure 1a block diagram of a wireless network controller (114). The WNC (300) includes a controller (301) coupled to a memory (303). The controller (301) is configured to request and receive sensor data (e.g., voltage data (307), temperature data (309), current data (311)) from a plurality of MMSs via a transceiver (305). The controller (301) can include or implement a microcontroller, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a programmable logic array (PLA) such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other data computation unit, in accordance with the present disclosure. The battery sensor data (e.g., voltage data (307), temperature data (309), current data (311)) can be stored in the memory (303). The memory (303) can be a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory. The controller (301) is further configured to provide formatted battery sensor data to a BMS controller or a vehicle control system (e.g., Figure 1 of a VCS (112) via an interface (313). The interface can include a bus or other wired connection to the BMS controller or the VCS.

[0029] To further explain, Figure 4 a flowchart showing an implementation of a method of utilizing a multi-functional wireless MMS in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present application is set forth. Figure 4 The method includes monitoring (402), by a multi-functional wireless MMS (401), one or more properties of a plurality of battery cells in a battery pack. The multi-functional wireless MMS can be Figure 1 the MMS (108a-n) in Figure 2A the MMS (200) in Figure 2B the MMS (250) in. Monitoring (402), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), one or more properties of a plurality of battery cells in a battery pack can be performed by measuring, using a sensor, voltage, temperature, current in the plurality of battery cells.

[0030] Figure 4 The method further includes generating (403), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), battery sensor data based on the monitored one or more properties. Generating (403), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), battery sensor data based on the monitored one or more properties can be performed by generating voltage data, temperature data, and current data.

[0031] Figure 4The method of further comprises: responsive to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the first operating mode, transmitting (404), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), a first set of battery sensor data to a wireless network controller (WNC) of a battery management system (BMS) via a wireless interface. Transmitting (404), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), the first set of battery sensor data to the WNC of the battery management system (BMS) via the wireless interface can be performed by transmitting some or all of the battery sensor data to the WNC.

[0032] Further, Figure 4 The method of further comprises: responsive to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the second operating mode, transmitting (406), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), a second set of battery sensor data via a wired interface. Transmitting (406), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), the second set of battery sensor data via the wired interface can be performed by transmitting some or all of the battery sensor data to an external device coupled to the wired interface. In particular embodiments, the first set of battery sensor data is the same as the second set of battery sensor data.

[0033] To further explain, Figure 5 A flowchart showing an implementation of a method of utilizing a multi-functional wireless MMS according to at least one embodiment of the present application is set forth. Figure 5 The method of Figure 4 The method of is similar to the method of Figure 5 The method of also comprises: monitoring (402), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), one or more properties of a plurality of battery cells in a battery pack; generating (403), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), battery sensor data based on the monitored one or more properties; responsive to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the first operating mode, transmitting (404), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), a first set of battery sensor data to a wireless network controller (WNC) of a battery management system (BMS) via a wireless interface; and responsive to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the second operating mode, transmitting (406), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), a second set of battery sensor data via a wired interface.

[0034] Figure 5The method of converting (502) a multi-functional wireless MMS from a first operating mode to a second operating mode by switching from a first protocol to a second protocol for communicating via a wireless interface can be performed by implementing the second protocol for transmitting and receiving messages using the wireless interface. For example, the MMS can switch to Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) in the second operating mode. The second protocol can allow the MMS to communicate with a mobile device to perform monitoring or service operations. For example, in certain embodiments, a user can wirelessly connect the mobile device to the MMS and request the MMS to transmit data to the mobile device.

[0035] To further explain, Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating implementation of a method of utilizing a multi-functional wireless MMS according to at least one embodiment of the present application is set forth. Figure 6 The method of Figure 5 The method of Figure 6 The method of converting (502) a multi-functional wireless MMS from a first operating mode to a second operating mode by switching from a first protocol to a second protocol for communicating via a wireless interface can be performed by implementing the second protocol for transmitting and receiving messages using the wireless interface. For example, the MMS can switch to Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) in the second operating mode. The second protocol can allow the MMS to communicate with a mobile device to perform monitoring or service operations. For example, in certain embodiments, a user can wirelessly connect the mobile device to the MMS and request the MMS to transmit data to the mobile device.

[0036] Figure 6 The method of converting (502) a multi-functional wireless MMS from a first operating mode to a second operating mode by switching from a first protocol to a second protocol for communicating via a wireless interface can be performed by implementing the second protocol for transmitting and receiving messages using the wireless interface. For example, the MMS can switch to Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) in the second operating mode. The second protocol can allow the MMS to communicate with a mobile device to perform monitoring or service operations. For example, in certain embodiments, a user can wirelessly connect the mobile device to the MMS and request the MMS to transmit data to the mobile device.

[0037] To further explain, Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating implementation of a method of utilizing a multi-functional wireless MMS according to at least one embodiment of the present application is set forth. Figure 7 The method of Figure 5 The method of Figure 7The method of also includes: monitoring (402), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), one or more properties of the plurality of battery cells in the battery pack; generating (403), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), battery sensor data based on the monitored one or more properties; in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the first operating mode, transmitting (404), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), a first set of battery sensor data to a wireless network controller (WNC) of a battery management system (BMS) via a wireless interface; in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the second operating mode, transmitting (406), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), a second set of battery sensor data via a wired interface; and transitioning (502) the multi-functional wireless MMS from the first operating mode to the second operating mode by switching from a first protocol to a second protocol for communication via the wireless interface.

[0038] Figure 7 The method of also includes: in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the second operating mode, receiving (702), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), a request from an external wireless device to generate a third set of battery sensor data via the wireless interface and in accordance with the second protocol. Receiving (702), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), the request from the external wireless device to generate the third set of battery sensor data via the wireless interface and in accordance with the second protocol can be performed by: receiving a message indicating a particular property to monitor; receiving a request to perform a particular monitoring procedure; receiving a request for health information; and receiving a request for a status or grade of the plurality of battery cells.

[0039] Further, Figure 7 The method of also includes: in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the second operating mode, transmitting (704), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), data indicative of the third set of battery sensor data to the external wireless device via the wireless interface and in accordance with the second protocol. Transmitting (704), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), the data indicative of the third set of battery sensor data to the external wireless device via the wireless interface and in accordance with the second protocol can be performed by: transmitting the third set of battery sensor data using the wireless interface.

[0040] To further explain, Figure 8 A flowchart showing an implementation of a method of utilizing a multi-functional wireless MMS in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present application is set forth. Figure 8 The method of Figure 5 The method of is similar to the method of Figure 8The method of also includes: monitoring (402), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), one or more properties of the plurality of battery cells in the battery pack; generating (403), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), battery sensor data based on the monitored one or more properties; in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the first operating mode, transmitting (404), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), a first set of battery sensor data to a wireless network controller (WNC) of a battery management system (BMS) via a wireless interface; in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the second operating mode, transmitting (406), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), a second set of battery sensor data via a wired interface; and transitioning (502) the multi-functional wireless MMS from the first operating mode to the second operating mode by switching from a first protocol to a second protocol for communication via the wireless interface.

[0041] Figure 8 The method of includes: in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the second operating mode, receiving (802), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401) from an external wireless device via the wireless interface and in accordance with the second protocol, a request to perform a service operation. The service operation can be an operation in which the MMS monitors, inspects, or services the plurality of battery cells. Receiving (802), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401) from an external wireless device via the wireless interface and in accordance with the second protocol, a request to perform a service operation can be performed by: receiving a message to monitor, inspect, or service the plurality of battery cells.

[0042] Further, Figure 8 The method of includes: in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the second operating mode, in response to receiving the request to perform a service operation, performing (804), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), the service operation. Performing (804), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), the service operation can be performed by: performing the service operation.

[0043] To further explain, Figure 9 A flowchart showing an implementation of a method of utilizing a multi-functional wireless MMS in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present application is set forth. Figure 9 The method of is similar to the method of Figure 4 The method of is similar to the method of Figure 9The method of also includes monitoring (402), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), one or more properties of the plurality of battery cells in the battery pack; generating (403), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), battery sensor data based on the monitored one or more properties; in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the first operating mode, transmitting (404), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), a first set of battery sensor data to a wireless network controller (WNC) of a battery management system (BMS) via a wireless interface; and in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the second operating mode, transmitting (406), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), a second set of battery sensor data via a wired interface.

[0044] Figure 9 The method of includes generating and storing, by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), health information about the plurality of battery cells in the battery pack using (902) the monitored one or more properties. The health information can be information that is based on the monitored properties and that is indicative of a health or a status of the plurality of battery cells. For example, the health information can include battery sensor data, and the health information can include data generated by analyzing data from the plurality of battery cells, including battery sensor data. Generating and storing, by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), health information about the plurality of battery cells in the battery pack using (902) the monitored one or more properties can be performed by storing battery sensor data as health information; analyzing battery sensor data to generate health information; and analyzing other data associated with the plurality of battery cells to generate health information.

[0045] To further explain, Figure 10 A flowchart showing an implementation of a method of utilizing a multi-functional wireless MMS in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present application is set forth. Figure 10 The method of Figure 9 The method of is similar to Figure 10The method of also includes: monitoring (402), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), one or more properties of the plurality of battery cells in the battery pack; generating (403), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), battery sensor data based on the monitored one or more properties; in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the first mode of operation, transmitting (404), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), a first set of battery sensor data to a wireless network controller (WNC) of a battery management system (BMS) via a wireless interface; in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the second mode of operation, transmitting (406), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), a second set of battery sensor data via a wired interface; and generating and storing, by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), health information about the plurality of battery cells in the battery pack using (902) the monitored one or more properties.

[0046] Figure 10 The method of includes: determining (1002), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), a status of the plurality of battery cells for a second life use based on the stored health information about the plurality of battery cells in the battery pack. Determining (1002), by the multi-functional wireless MMS (401), a status of the plurality of battery cells for a second life use can be performed by: comparing one or more values in the health information to one or more threshold values associated with grading criteria; determining one or more statuses of the plurality of battery cells based on a result of the comparison. For example, when a module of the battery pack is being repurposed, the condition of the module can need to be tested and verified. In this example, the multi-functional wireless MMS can use the health information to perform this test and evaluation and report the results to another device via a wireless interface.

[0047] In view of the explanations set forth above, the reader will recognize the benefits of the multi-functional wireless module monitoring system in an electric vehicle battery pack according to embodiments of the present disclosure include, but are not limited to:

[0048] • Improving performance of the module monitoring system by allowing modules of the electric vehicle battery pack to be repurposed or reused without requiring replacement of the installed module monitoring system.

[0049] • Improving performance of the module monitoring system by allowing the health of a module that is being repurposed to be assessed using historical information from the use of that module in an electric vehicle battery pack.

[0050] Exemplary embodiments of the present application are described largely in the context of a fully functional computer system for life battery tracking using a wireless interface. However, those skilled in the relevant art will appreciate that the present application can be embodied in a computer program product disposed on a computer readable storage medium for use with any suitable data processing system. Such computer readable storage medium can be any device or medium that is tangibly readable by a machine, including without limitation magnetic storage devices, optical storage devices, or other suitable storage devices. Examples of such computer readable storage medium include without limitation magnetic disks, magnetic tapes, CD-ROM's, DVD's, memory cards, floppy disks, and other storage devices tangibly embodying machine readable instructions for processing information in a machine. Those skilled in the relevant art will immediately appreciate that any computer readable storage medium can be used as long as the computer readable instructions can be read and processed by a machine. Furthermore, those skilled in the relevant art will immediately recognize that at least some of the exemplary embodiments described herein can be implemented using a software program written in any suitable computer readable program language such as C, C++, Java, Visual Basic, Python, or any other suitable programming language. Furthermore, it will be immediately recognized that a software program can be implemented as a software module or as a software engine that is executed on a computer hardware platform. Those skilled in the relevant art will immediately recognize that a software module or a software engine can be implemented as a thread or process on a computer hardware platform. Those skilled in the relevant art will also recognize that a software module or a software engine can be implemented as a computer program product that can be tangibly embodied in a computer readable storage medium.

[0051] The present application can be a system, a device, a method, and / or a computer program product. The computer program product can include a computer readable storage medium (or media) having computer readable program instructions thereon for causing a processor to carry out aspects of the present application.

[0052] The computer readable storage medium can be a tangible device that can retain and store instructions for use by an instruction execution device. The computer readable storage medium can be, for example, but is not limited to, an electronic storage device, a magnetic storage device, an optical storage device, an electromagnetic storage device, a semiconductor storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. A non-exhaustive list of more specific examples of the computer readable storage medium includes the following: a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), a static random access memory (SRAM), a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), a digital versatile disk (DVD), a memory stick, a floppy disk, a mechanically encoded device such as punch-cards or raised structures in a groove having instructions recorded thereon, and any suitable combination of the foregoing. A computer readable storage medium, as used herein, is not to be construed as being transitory signals per se, such as radio waves or other freely propagating electromagnetic waves, electromagnetic waves propagating through a waveguide or other transmission media (e.g., light pulses passing through a fiber-optic cable), or electrical signals transmitted through a wire.

[0053] Computer readable program instructions described herein can be downloaded to respective computing / processing devices from a computer readable storage medium or to an external computer or external storage device via a network, for example, the Internet, a local area network, a wide area network and / or a wireless network. The network can comprise copper transmission cables, optical transmission fibers, wireless transmission, routers, firewalls, switches, gateway computers and / or edge servers. A network adaptation card or network interface in each computing / processing device receives computer readable program instructions from the network and forwards the computer readable program instructions to storage media within the respective computing / processing device for execution.

[0054] Computer readable program instructions for carrying out operations of the present application can be assembly instructions, instruction-set-architecture (ISA) instructions, machine instructions, machine dependent instructions, microcode, firmware instructions, state setting data, or any combination of source code or object code written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object oriented programming language such as Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional procedural programming languages, such as the "C" programming language or similar programming languages. The computer readable program instructions can execute entirely on the user's computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer can be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection can be made to an external computer or server through the Internet, for example, using an Internet Service Provider. In some embodiments, electronic circuitry including, for example, programmable logic circuitry, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA), or programmable logic arrays (PLA) can execute the computer readable program instructions by utilizing state information of the computer readable program instructions to personalize the electronic circuitry to perform aspects of the present application.

[0055] Aspects of the present application are described herein with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the application. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer readable program instructions.

[0056] These computer readable program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks. These computer readable program instructions can also be stored in a computer readable storage medium that can direct a computer, a programmable data processing apparatus, and / or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the computer readable storage medium having instructions stored therein comprises an article of manufacture including

[0057] The computer readable program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other device to produce a computer implemented process, such that the instructions which execute on the computer, other programmable apparatus, or other device implement the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0058] The flow and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operations of possible implementations of systems, methods and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present application. In this regard, each block in the flow and block diagrams can represent a module, segment, or portion of instructions, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical functions (‘instructions’). In some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the blocks can occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession can in fact be executed substantially concurrently or the blocks can sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustrations, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

[0059] Advantages and features of the disclosure can be further described through the following claims:

[0060] 1. A method for utilizing a multi-functional wireless module monitoring system (MMS) in a battery pack, the method comprising: monitoring, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, one or more attributes of a plurality of battery cells in the battery pack; generating, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, battery sensor data based on the monitored one or more attributes; in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in a first operational mode, transmitting, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, a first set of battery sensor data to a wireless network controller (WNC) of a battery management system (BMS) via a wireless interface; and in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in a second operational mode, transmitting, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, a second set of battery sensor data via a wired interface.

[0061] 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising transitioning the multi-functional wireless MMS from the first operational mode to the second operational mode by switching from a first protocol to a second protocol for communicating via the wireless interface.

[0062] 3. The method of claim 1 or 2, further comprising, in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the second operational mode, transmitting, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, data via the wireless interface using the second protocol.

[0063] 4. The method of any of claims 1-3, further comprising, in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the second operational mode: receiving, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, a request from an external wireless device to generate a third set of battery sensor data based on the one or more attributes via the wireless interface and in accordance with the second protocol; and transmitting, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, the third set of battery sensor data to the external wireless device via the wireless interface and in accordance with the second protocol.

[0064] 5. The method of any of claims 1-4, further comprising, in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the second operational mode: receiving, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, a request from an external wireless device to perform a service operation via the wireless interface and in accordance with the second protocol; and in response to receiving the request to perform the service operation, performing, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, the service operation.

[0065] 6. The method of any of claims 1-5, further comprising generating and storing, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, health information about the plurality of battery cells in the battery pack using the monitored one or more attributes.

[0066] 7. The method of any of claims 1-6, further comprising determining, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, a state of the plurality of battery cells for second-life use based on the stored health information about the plurality of battery cells in the battery pack.

[0067] 8. The method of any of statements 1-7, wherein the second protocol comprises a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) protocol.

[0068] 9. The method of any of statements 1-8, wherein the MMS comprises a sensor for sensing a current associated with the plurality of battery cells.

[0069] 10. An apparatus comprising a processor and a memory coupled to the processor, the memory comprising computer program instructions that when executed by the processor cause the apparatus to: monitor, by a multi-functional wireless MMS, one or more properties of a plurality of battery cells in a battery pack; generate, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, battery sensor data based on the monitored one or more properties; in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in a first operating mode, transmit, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, a first set of battery sensor data to a wireless network controller (WNC) of a battery management system (BMS) via a wireless interface; and in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in a second operating mode, transmit, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, a second set of battery sensor data via a wired interface.

[0070] 11. The apparatus of statement 10, wherein the memory further comprises computer program instructions that when executed by the processor cause the apparatus to: transition the multi-functional wireless MMS from the first operating mode to the second operating mode by switching from a first protocol to a second protocol for communicating via the wireless interface.

[0071] 12. The apparatus of statement 10 or 11, wherein the memory further comprises computer program instructions that when executed by the processor cause the apparatus to: in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the second operating mode, transmit, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, data via the wireless interface using the second protocol.

[0072] 13. The apparatus of any of statements 10-12, wherein the memory further comprises computer program instructions that when executed by the processor cause the apparatus to: in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the second operating mode: receive, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, a request from an external wireless device to generate a third set of battery sensor data based on the one or more properties via the wireless interface and in accordance with the second protocol; and transmit, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, the third set of battery sensor data to the external wireless device via the wireless interface and in accordance with the second protocol.

[0073] 14. The apparatus of any of claims 10-13, wherein the memory further comprises computer program instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the apparatus to perform the following operations: in response to the multi-function wireless MMS operating in the second mode of operation: receiving, by the multi-function wireless MMS via the wireless interface and in accordance with the second protocol, a request from the external wireless device to perform a service operation; and in response to receiving the request to perform the service operation, performing, by the multi-function wireless MMS, the service operation.

[0074] 15. The apparatus of any of claims 10-14, wherein the memory further comprises computer program instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the apparatus to perform the following operations: generating and storing, by the multi-function wireless MMS, health information about the plurality of cells in the battery pack using the monitored one or more properties.

[0075] 16. A computer program product for utilizing a multi-function wireless module monitoring system (MMS) in a battery pack, the computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer readable storage medium having computer program instructions embodied thereon that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the following operations: monitoring, by the multi-function wireless MMS, one or more properties of a plurality of battery cells in the battery pack; generating, by the multi-function wireless MMS, battery sensor data based on the monitored one or more properties; in response to the multi-function wireless MMS operating in a first mode of operation, transmitting, by the multi-function wireless MMS via a wireless interface, a first set of battery sensor data to a wireless network controller (WNC) of a battery management system (BMS); and in response to the multi-function wireless MMS operating in a second mode of operation, transmitting, by the multi-function wireless MMS via a wired interface, a second set of battery sensor data.

[0076] 17. The computer program product of claim 16, further comprising computer program instructions that, when executed by the computer, cause the computer to perform the following operations: transitioning the multi-function wireless MMS from the first mode of operation to the second mode of operation by switching from the first protocol to the second protocol for communicating via the wireless interface.

[0077] 18. The computer program product of claim 16 or 17, further comprising computer program instructions that, when executed by the computer, cause the computer to perform the following operations: in response to the multi-function wireless MMS operating in the second mode of operation, transmitting, by the multi-function wireless MMS via the wireless interface, data using the second protocol.

[0078] 19. The computer program product of any of statements 16-18, further comprising computer program instructions that, when executed by the computer, cause the computer to perform the following operations: responsive to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the second mode of operation: responsive to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the second mode of operation: receiving, by the multi-functional wireless MMS from the external wireless device via the wireless interface and in accordance with the second protocol, a request to generate a third set of battery sensor data based on the one or more attributes; and transmitting, by the multi-functional wireless MMS to the external wireless device via the wireless interface and in accordance with the second protocol, the third set of battery sensor data.

[0079] 20. The computer program product of any of statements 16-19, further comprising computer program instructions that, when executed by the computer, cause the computer to perform the following operations: responsive to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the second mode of operation: receiving, by the multi-functional wireless MMS from the external wireless device via the wireless interface and in accordance with the second protocol, a request to perform a service operation; and responsive to receiving the request to perform the service operation, performing, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, the service operation.

[0080] One or more embodiments can be described herein with the aid of method steps of a method for performing a functionality and relating thereto. The boundaries and order of these functional building blocks and method steps have been arbitrarily defined, for the convenience of the description. Alternate boundaries and orders can be defined in alternative embodiments. Additionally, not all of the functional building blocks described hereinafter can be implemented in a comparable embodiment. Furthermore, other functional building blocks can be provided in addition to those shown and described herein. As such, the boundaries of these functional building blocks are not to be construed as limiting the scope of each function building block. It will also be recognized that, in some embodiments, equivalents of the functional building blocks and method steps described herein can be employed in place of the described architecture.

[0081] The boundaries and order of the flowchart blocks and the functional building blocks can be changed, and still implement some important aspects of the functionality of the disclosed architecture. Thus, the order of the flowchart blocks and functional building blocks should not be construed as limiting the scope of the architecture. Further, the functional building blocks and flowchart blocks can be implemented in a number of different ways, such as with individual circuits, with computer programs, with individual hardware components, with software components, with software and hardware components, or any combination thereof.

[0082] While specific combinations of various functions and features of one or more embodiments have been expressly described herein, other combinations of these features and functions are likewise possible. The disclosure is not limited to the specific examples disclosed herein, and expressly incorporates these other combinations.

Claims

1. A method for utilizing a multi-functional wireless module monitoring system (MMS) in a battery pack, the method comprising: monitoring, by a multi-functional wireless MMS, one or more attributes of a plurality of battery cells in the battery pack; generating, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, battery sensor data based on the monitored one or more attributes; in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in a first mode of operation, transmitting, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, a first set of battery sensor data to a wireless network controller (WNC) of a battery management system (BMS) via a wireless interface; and in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in a second mode of operation: transmitting, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, a second set of battery sensor data via a wired interface; receiving, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, a request from an external wireless device to perform a service operation via the wireless interface and in accordance with a second protocol; and in response to receiving the request to perform the service operation, performing, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, the service operation.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: switching from a first protocol to a second protocol to communicate via the wireless interface to transition the multi-functional wireless MMS from the first mode of operation to the second mode of operation.

3. The method of claim 2, further comprising: in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the second mode of operation, transmitting, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, data via the wireless interface using the second protocol.

4. The method of claim 1, further comprising: generating and storing, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, health information about the plurality of battery cells in the battery pack using the monitored one or more attributes.

5. The method of claim 4, further comprising: determining, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, a state of the plurality of battery cells for second life usage based on the stored health information about the plurality of battery cells in the battery pack.

6. The method of claim 2, wherein, the second protocol comprises a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) protocol.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein, the multi-functional wireless MMS comprises a sensor to sense a current associated with the plurality of battery cells.

8. An apparatus for utilizing a multi-functional wireless module monitoring system (MMS) in a battery pack, the apparatus comprising a processor and a memory coupled to the processor, the memory comprising computer program instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the apparatus to perform the following operations: monitoring, by a multi-functional wireless MMS, one or more attributes of a plurality of battery cells in the battery pack; generating, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, battery sensor data based on the monitored one or more attributes; in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in a first mode of operation, transmitting, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, a first set of battery sensor data to a wireless network controller (WNC) of a battery management system (BMS) via a wireless interface; in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in a second mode of operation: transmitting, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, a second set of battery sensor data via a wired interface; receiving, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, a request from an external wireless device to generate a third set of battery sensor data based on the one or more attributes via the wireless interface and in accordance with a second protocol; and transmit, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, the third set of battery sensor data to the external wireless device via the wireless interface and in accordance with the second protocol.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein, The memory further includes computer program instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the apparatus to transition the multi-functional wireless MMS from the first operating mode to the second operating mode by switching from a first protocol to a second protocol for communicating via the wireless interface.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein, The memory further includes computer program instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the apparatus to transmit, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, data via the wireless interface using the second protocol in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in the second operating mode.

11. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein, The memory further includes computer program instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the apparatus to generate and store, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, health information about the plurality of battery cells in the battery pack using the monitored one or more attributes.

12. A computer program product for utilizing a multi-functional wireless module monitoring system (MMS) in a battery pack, the computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer readable storage medium having computer program instructions embodied therein that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the following operations: monitor, by a multi-functional wireless MMS, one or more attributes of a plurality of battery cells in the battery pack; generate, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, battery sensor data based on the monitored one or more attributes; in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in a first operating mode, transmit, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, a first set of battery sensor data to a wireless network controller (WNC) of a battery management system (BMS) via a wireless interface; in response to the multi-functional wireless MMS operating in a second operating mode: transmit, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, a second set of battery sensor data via a wired interface; receive, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, a request to perform a service operation from an external wireless device via the wireless interface and in accordance with a second protocol; and in response to receiving the request to perform the service operation, perform, by the multi-functional wireless MMS, the service operation.

13. The computer program product of claim 12, further comprising computer program instructions that, when executed by the computer, cause the computer to transition the multi-functional wireless MMS from the first operating mode to the second operating mode by switching from a first protocol to a second protocol for communicating via the wireless interface.

14. The computer program product of claim 13, further comprising computer program instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to transmit data by the multi-function wireless MMS using the second protocol via the wireless interface in response to the multi-function wireless MMS operating in the second mode of operation.

Images