Circuits and electronic devices used to control battery cells

Abstract

A circuit (100) and an electronic device (200) for controlling a battery cell are disclosed. The circuit (100) includes: a first charging path (110) for matching custom adapter charging, including a first SC converter (1221) that supports a fixed-ratio voltage conversion; and a second charging path (120) for matching non-custom adapter charging, including: a first switching converter circuit (1220) and a second SC converter (1223), wherein the first switching converter circuit (1220) supports buck mode, and the second charging path (120) is capable of variable-ratio voltage conversion, thereby supporting charging modes requiring constant current. This circuit (100) is compatible with both custom and non-custom adapters, improving the flexibility and management efficiency of controlling battery cell charging and discharging.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electronic technology, and in particular to circuits and electronic devices for controlling battery cells. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of battery charge and discharge control circuits, one of the industry's research directions is to achieve larger battery capacities and faster charging rates. Currently, the commonly used single-cell lithium battery charging and discharging solutions have reached a bottleneck in improving charging rates. One of the key factors affecting charging rate improvement is the maximum current handling capacity of the Universal Serial Bus (USB). The USB standard includes the Type-C interface. While it is theoretically possible to customize dedicated charging cables and interfaces to overcome the maximum current handling capacity limit of the Type-C standard, doing so would significantly increase device costs and introduce compatibility issues with existing USB interface standards.

[0003] Therefore, the industry has proposed a battery solution that uses dual cells in series based on a USB interface. By doubling the voltage of the USB cable, the charging rate can theoretically be doubled compared to a single cell. This method has almost no negative impact on the cost of the device, and if the internal space of the device allows, it can achieve the effect of doubling the capacity without customizing ultra-large capacity single cells.

[0004] However, the charging and discharging control circuit of dual-cell batteries is more complex. For example, it faces the problem of compatibility between the charging and discharging control circuit and different adapters. How to provide a dual-cell control circuit that can be compatible with both customized and non-customized adapters is one of the research directions in the industry. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a circuit and electronic device for controlling battery cells, which can improve the management efficiency of battery cell control circuits.

[0006] In a first aspect, a circuit for controlling a battery cell is provided. The battery cell includes a first battery cell and a second battery cell connected in series. The cathode of the first battery cell is grounded. The control circuit includes: a first charging path, including a first SC converter, a second transistor Q2, and a fifth transistor Q5, wherein the second transistor Q2 is disposed between an input voltage port and the first SC converter, a first terminal of the first SC converter is connected to the second transistor Q2, a second terminal of the first SC converter is connected to the first terminal of the fifth transistor Q5, and the second terminal of the fifth transistor Q5 is used to connect to the anode of the second battery cell. The input voltage port is used to receive an input voltage. A second charging path includes a first switching converter circuit, a second SC converter, a third transistor Q3, and a fifth transistor Q5, wherein the third transistor Q3 is disposed between the input voltage port and the first switching converter circuit, a first terminal of the first switching converter circuit is connected to the third transistor Q3, a second terminal of the first switching converter circuit is connected to the first terminal of the second SC converter, and a second terminal of the second SC converter is connected to the second terminal of the first SC converter. The first switching converter circuit supports operation in buck mode in the direction from its first terminal to its second terminal.

[0007] The circuit controlling the battery cell includes a first charging path and a second charging path. The first charging path uses a first SC converter to achieve a fixed-ratio voltage conversion, enabling high-voltage direct charging for use with custom adapters. The second charging path includes a first switching circuit and a second SC converter, supporting buck mode operation from the first to the second terminal and achieving variable-ratio voltage conversion for use with non-custom adapters. Therefore, this circuit is compatible with both custom and non-custom adapters, improving the flexibility and management efficiency of battery cell charging and discharging control.

[0008] Optionally, the aforementioned input voltage port can be a USB port, which can support multiple standards, such as Type C, micro USB, mini USB, etc.

[0009] Optionally, the aforementioned high-voltage direct charging mode refers to a mode where the input voltage received at the input voltage terminal is greater than a preset voltage (e.g., 5.5V), and the circuit controlling the battery cell does not need to stabilize the charging current. The aforementioned compatible charging mode refers to a charging mode where the circuit controlling the battery cell needs to stabilize the charging current. The compatible charging mode is compatible with adapters with different output voltage levels, such as 5V, 9V, 12V, and 15V.

[0010] Alternatively, steady current can also be called constant current. Steady current refers to controlling the magnitude of the current to remain constant at a certain value or with only a very small range of fluctuation.

[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect, when the first charging path is working, the second transistor Q2 acts as a switch and is turned on, and the third transistor Q3 acts as a switch and is turned off; when the second charging path is working, the second transistor Q2 acts as a switch and is turned off, and the third transistor Q3 acts as a switch and is turned on.

[0012] The second transistor Q2 and the third transistor Q3 can function as switches. For example, when the second transistor Q2 is turned on, it means that the second transistor Q2 is acting as a switch and is in the on state, and the circuit is conducting. When the second transistor Q2 is turned off, it means that the second transistor Q2 is acting as a switch and is in the off state, and the circuit is turned off.

[0013] Optionally, the input voltage port can be used to receive voltage from either a custom adapter or a non-custom adapter. Specifically, when powered by a custom adapter, the second transistor Q2 is turned on, the third transistor Q3 is turned off, and the fifth transistor Q5 is turned on, allowing the custom adapter to be powered through the first charging path, and the circuit operates in high-voltage direct charging mode. When powered by a non-custom adapter, the second transistor Q2 is turned off, the third transistor Q3 is turned on, and the fifth transistor Q5 is turned on, allowing the non-custom adapter to be powered through the second charging path, and the circuit operates in compatible charging mode.

[0014] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the fifth transistor Q5 acts as a power switch and is in the ON state when the first charging path is operating; and the fifth transistor Q5 is used for current stabilization when the second charging path is operating.

[0015] When charging with a custom adapter, there is no need to stabilize the charging current. Therefore, the fifth transistor Q5 is designed to act as a power switch and be turned on when the first charging path is operating. However, when charging with a non-custom adapter, it is necessary to stabilize the charging current. Therefore, the fifth transistor Q5 is designed to stabilize the current when the second charging path is operating. By designing the operating state of the fifth transistor Q5 in different charging paths, the circuit controlling the battery cell can be compatible with different charging modes, improving the flexibility and management efficiency of controlling the charging and discharging of the battery cell.

[0016] Optionally, the operating state of the fifth transistor Q5 can be controlled by a second control circuit. For example, when the second charging path is operating, the second control circuit can control the gate voltage of the fifth transistor Q5, so that the current through the fifth transistor Q5 is stabilized within a preset range. When the first charging path is operating, the second control circuit can control the fifth transistor Q5 to be in a fully turned-on state, equivalent to a power switch.

[0017] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the second SC converter supports a boost mode from its first terminal to its second terminal and a buck mode from its second terminal to its first terminal.

[0018] The second SC converter is positioned between the first and second battery cells, and can be used to achieve voltage balancing between the two cells. Furthermore, when the first charging path is operating, the second SC converter can operate in buck mode to provide the voltage to the load after stepping it down; when the second charging path is operating, the second SC converter can operate in boost mode to provide the voltage to the second battery cell after stepping it up.

[0019] Therefore, the second SC converter can be reused in the cell control circuit, thereby reducing design complexity and lowering product costs.

[0020] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the circuit further includes: a fourth transistor Q4, the first terminal of which is connected to the second terminal of the first switching converter circuit and the first terminal of the second SC converter, and the second terminal of which is connected to the anode of the first battery cell.

[0021] The fourth transistor Q4 is positioned between the first battery cell, the second SC converter, and the first switching converter circuit. The fourth transistor Q4 is in the ON state under the following conditions: when achieving voltage equalization between the first and second battery cells, and when the first battery cell discharges to the load. Therefore, the fourth transistor Q4 can be multiplexed under both voltage equalization and load discharge conditions, reducing the design complexity and product cost of the battery cell control circuit.

[0022] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, when the first cell and the second cell are voltage balanced through the second SC converter, the fourth transistor Q4 acts as a power switch and is in the on state, and the fifth transistor Q5 acts as a power switch and is in the on state.

[0023] Optionally, the operating state of the fourth transistor Q4 can be controlled by the first control circuit. For example, when the cell voltages of the first cell and the second cell are not equal, the first control circuit is used to control the fourth transistor Q4 to turn on, so that the second SC converter can perform voltage equalization.

[0024] When voltage balancing is performed between the first and second cells, both the fourth transistor Q4 and the fifth transistor Q5 act as power switches and are in the on state to facilitate voltage balancing.

[0025] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the first terminal of the fourth transistor Q4 is connected to the system power supply terminal. When the first battery cell supplies power to the load through the system power supply terminal, the fourth transistor Q4 is in the on state, and its gate voltage is adjusted to keep the voltage difference between the anode of the first battery cell and the system power supply terminal constant.

[0026] When the battery cell is in charging mode, the system load is typically powered by an external power source. However, if the external power supply is insufficient, the battery cell needs to provide instantaneous power to the load. In this case, the first battery cell can supply power to the load through the system power supply terminal. At this time, the fourth transistor Q4 is in the conducting state, and the voltage difference between the anode of the first battery cell and the system power supply terminal is kept constant by adjusting the gate voltage. Thus, the fourth transistor Q4 can be reused for discharging to the load, reducing the design complexity and product cost of the battery cell control circuit.

[0027] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, when the first battery cell and the second battery cell are powered in reverse through the second SC converter and the first switching converter circuit, the second SC converter operates in buck mode in the direction from its second terminal to its first terminal, the first switching converter circuit operates in boost mode in the direction from its second terminal to its first terminal, and the fifth transistor Q5 acts as a power switch and is in the on state.

[0028] By adjusting the operating state, the second SC converter, the first switching converter circuit, and the fifth transistor Q5 can be reused in the case of reverse power supply, thereby reducing the design complexity of the cell control circuit and the product cost.

[0029] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the circuit further includes a first transistor Q1, a first terminal of which is connected to the input voltage port, and a second terminal of which is connected to the first terminal of the second transistor Q2 and the first terminal of the third transistor Q3.

[0030] Optionally, the first transistor Q1 can be housed in the same chip as other components in the circuit controlling the battery cell, or it can be set independently.

[0031] Optionally, the first transistor Q1, together with the second transistor Q2 and the third transistor Q3, can realize the switching function in the circuit that controls the battery cell.

[0032] Optionally, the switching on or off of transistors (e.g., first transistor Q1, second transistor Q2, or third transistor Q3) in the circuit can be controlled by a switch control circuit.

[0033] For example, when the first charging path is operating, the switch control circuit can turn off transistor Q3 and turn on transistors Q1 and Q2. When the second charging path is operating, the switch control circuit 1222 can turn off transistor Q2 and turn on transistors Q1 and Q3.

[0034] Alternatively, transistors Q1 to Q5 can be implemented using metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs).

[0035] In a second aspect, a circuit for controlling a battery cell is provided, characterized in that the battery cell includes a first battery cell and a second battery cell connected in series, the cathode of the first battery cell being grounded, and the circuit including: a first charging path including a first switched-capacitor (SC) converter and a second transistor Q2, wherein the second transistor Q2 is disposed between an input voltage port and the first SC converter, a first terminal of the first SC converter is connected to the second transistor Q2, a second terminal of the first SC converter is used to connect to the anode of the second battery cell, and the input voltage port is used to receive an input voltage; and a second charging path including a first switching converter circuit, a second SC converter, a third transistor Q3, and a fourth transistor Q4, wherein the third transistor Q3 is disposed between the input voltage port and the first switching converter circuit, a first terminal of the first switching converter circuit is connected to the third transistor Q3, a second terminal of the first switching converter circuit is connected to the first terminal of the fourth transistor Q4, a second terminal of the fourth transistor Q4 is connected to the first terminal of the second SC converter, a second terminal of the second SC converter is connected to the second terminal of the first SC converter, and the first switching converter circuit supports operation in buck mode in the direction from its first terminal to its second terminal.

[0036] The circuit controlling the battery cell includes a first charging path and a second charging path. The first charging path uses a first SC converter to achieve a fixed-ratio voltage conversion, enabling high-voltage direct charging for use with custom adapters. The second charging path includes a first switching circuit that can operate in buck mode from its first to second terminal, achieving a variable-ratio voltage conversion for use with non-custom adapters. Therefore, this circuit is compatible with both custom and non-custom adapters, improving the flexibility and management efficiency of controlling the battery cell's charging and discharging.

[0037] In conjunction with the second aspect, when the first charging path is working, the second transistor Q2 acts as a switch and is turned on, and the third transistor Q3 acts as a switch and is turned off; when the second charging path is working, the second transistor Q2 acts as a switch and is turned off, and the third transistor Q3 acts as a switch and is turned on.

[0038] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the fourth transistor Q4 is used for current stabilization when the second charging path is operating.

[0039] When charging with a non-custom adapter, current stabilization is required. Therefore, a fourth transistor Q4 is designed to stabilize the current during the second charging path. However, when charging with a custom adapter, current stabilization is not required, so the fourth transistor Q4 is not located in the first charging path. Thus, by designing the fourth transistor Q4, the circuit controlling the battery cell can be compatible with different charging modes, improving the flexibility and management efficiency of battery cell charging and discharging control.

[0040] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the second SC converter supports a boost mode from its first terminal to its second terminal and a buck mode from its second terminal to its first terminal.

[0041] The second SC converter is positioned between the first and second battery cells, and can be used to achieve voltage balancing between the two cells. Furthermore, when the first charging path is operating, the second SC converter can operate in buck mode to provide the voltage to the load after stepping it down; when the second charging path is operating, the second SC converter can operate in boost mode to provide the voltage to the second battery cell after stepping it up.

[0042] Therefore, the second SC converter can be reused in the cell control circuit, thereby reducing design complexity and lowering product costs.

[0043] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the first terminal of the fourth transistor Q4 is connected to the system power supply terminal. When the first battery cell supplies power to the load through the system power supply terminal, the fourth transistor Q4 is in the conducting state, and its gate voltage is adjusted to keep the voltage difference between the anode of the first battery cell and the system power supply terminal constant.

[0044] When the battery cell is in charging mode, the system load is typically powered by an external power source. However, if the external power supply is insufficient, the battery cell needs to provide instantaneous power to the load. In this case, the first battery cell can supply power to the load through the system power supply terminal. At this time, the fourth transistor Q4 is in the conducting state, and the voltage difference between the anode of the first battery cell and the system power supply terminal is kept constant by adjusting the gate voltage. Thus, the fourth transistor Q4 can be reused for discharging to the load, reducing the design complexity and product cost of the battery cell control circuit.

[0045] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, when the first battery cell and the second battery cell are powered in reverse through the second SC converter and the first switching converter circuit, the second SC converter operates in buck mode in the direction from its second terminal to its first terminal, the first switching converter circuit operates in boost mode in the direction from its second terminal to its first terminal, and the fourth transistor Q4 acts as a power switch and is in the on state.

[0046] By adjusting the operating state, the second SC converter, the first switching converter circuit, and the fourth transistor Q4 can be reused in the case of reverse power supply, thereby reducing the design complexity of the cell control circuit and the product cost.

[0047] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the circuit further includes: a first transistor Q1, the first terminal of which is connected to the input voltage port, and the second terminal of which is connected to the first terminal of the second transistor Q2 and the first terminal of the third transistor Q3.

[0048] Optionally, the first transistor Q1 can be housed in the same chip as other components in the circuit controlling the battery cell, or it can be set independently.

[0049] Optionally, the first transistor Q1, together with the second transistor Q2 and the third transistor Q3, can realize the switching function in the circuit that controls the battery cell.

[0050] Thirdly, a circuit for controlling a battery cell is provided, characterized in that the battery cell includes a first battery cell and a second battery cell connected in series, the cathode of the first battery cell being grounded, and the circuit including: a first charging path including a first switched capacitor SC converter and a second transistor Q2, wherein the second transistor Q2 is disposed between an input voltage port and the first SC converter, a first terminal of the first SC converter is connected to the second transistor Q2, and a second terminal of the first SC converter is used to connect to the anode of the second battery cell, and the input voltage port is used to receive an input voltage; a second charging path including a buck-boost voltage converter, a third transistor Q3 and a fifth transistor Q5, wherein the third transistor Q3 is disposed between the input voltage port and the buck-boost voltage converter, a first terminal of the buck-boost voltage converter is connected to the third transistor Q3, a second terminal of the buck-boost voltage converter is connected to the first terminal of the fifth transistor Q5, and a second terminal of the fifth transistor Q5 is used to connect to the anode of the second battery cell.

[0051] The circuit controlling the battery cell includes a first charging path and a second charging path. The first charging path uses a first SC converter to achieve a fixed-ratio voltage conversion, enabling high-voltage direct charging for use with custom adapters. The second charging path includes a buck-boost voltage converter, supporting buck or boost mode operation from its first to second terminal, allowing for variable-ratio voltage conversion for use with non-custom adapters. Therefore, this circuit is compatible with both custom and non-custom adapters, improving the flexibility and management efficiency of controlling the battery cell's charging and discharging.

[0052] In conjunction with the third aspect, when the first charging path is working, the second transistor Q2 acts as a switch and is turned on, and the third transistor Q3 acts as a switch and is turned off; when the second charging path is working, the second transistor Q2 acts as a switch and is turned off, and the third transistor Q3 acts as a switch and is turned on.

[0053] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the fifth transistor Q5 is used for current stabilization when the second charging path is operating.

[0054] When charging with a non-custom adapter, current stabilization is required. Therefore, a fifth transistor Q5 is designed to stabilize the current when the second charging path is in operation. When charging with a custom adapter, current stabilization is not required, so the fifth transistor Q5 is not located in the first charging path. Thus, by designing the fifth transistor Q5, the circuit controlling the battery cell can be compatible with different charging modes, improving the flexibility and management efficiency of controlling the battery cell's charging and discharging.

[0055] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the circuit further includes: a second SC converter and a fourth transistor Q4, wherein a second terminal of the second SC converter is connected to a second terminal of the buck-boost voltage converter and a first terminal of the fifth transistor Q5, a first terminal of the second SC converter is connected to a first terminal of the fourth transistor Q4, and a second terminal of the fourth transistor is connected to the anode of the first battery cell.

[0056] The second SC converter can be used for voltage balancing between the first and second battery cells, and also for reverse power supply to the battery cells. The fourth transistor Q4 can be activated during voltage balancing or when the battery cells provide instantaneous power to the load. By designing the second SC converter and the fourth transistor Q4, the circuit can achieve multiple functions such as voltage balancing, reverse power supply, and instantaneous power supply, in addition to implementing charging control, thereby reducing design complexity and product cost.

[0057] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the second SC converter supports a boost mode from its first terminal to its second terminal and a buck mode from its second terminal to its first terminal.

[0058] The second SC converter is positioned between the first and second battery cells, and can be used to achieve voltage balancing between the two cells. Furthermore, when the first charging path is operating, the second SC converter can operate in buck mode to provide the voltage to the load after stepping it down; when the second charging path is operating, the second SC converter can operate in boost mode to provide the voltage to the second battery cell after stepping it up.

[0059] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation, when the first cell and the second cell are voltage balanced through the second SC converter, the fourth transistor Q4 acts as a power switch and is in the on state, and the fifth transistor Q5 acts as a power switch and is in the on state.

[0060] When voltage balancing is performed between the first and second cells, both the fourth transistor Q4 and the fifth transistor Q5 act as power switches and are in the on state to facilitate voltage balancing.

[0061] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the first terminal of the fourth transistor Q4 is connected to the system power supply terminal. When the first battery cell supplies power to the load through the system power supply terminal, the fourth transistor Q4 is in the conducting state, and its gate voltage is adjusted to keep the voltage difference between the anode of the first battery cell and the system power supply terminal constant.

[0062] When the battery cell is in charging mode, the system load is typically powered by an external power source. However, if the external power supply is insufficient, the battery cell needs to provide instantaneous power to the load. In this case, the first battery cell can supply power to the load through the system power supply terminal. At this time, the fourth transistor Q4 is in the conducting state, and the voltage difference between the anode of the first battery cell and the system power supply terminal is kept constant by adjusting the gate voltage. Thus, the fourth transistor Q4 can be reused for discharging to the load, reducing the design complexity and product cost of the battery cell control circuit.

[0063] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation, the buck-boost voltage converter is a bidirectional buck-boost voltage converter. When the first cell and the second cell are powered in reverse, the bidirectional buck-boost voltage converter boosts or bucks the voltage in the direction from its second terminal to its first terminal, and the fifth transistor Q5 acts as a power switch and is in the on state.

[0064] By reusing the bidirectional buck-boost voltage converter, both non-custom adapter charging and reverse power supply of the battery cells can be achieved, reducing the design complexity of the control circuit and the product cost.

[0065] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation, it further includes: a first transistor Q1, the first terminal of which is connected to the input voltage port, and the second terminal of which is connected to the first terminal of the second transistor Q2 and the first terminal of the third transistor Q3.

[0066] Optionally, the first transistor Q1 can be housed in the same chip as other components in the circuit controlling the battery cell, or it can be set independently.

[0067] Optionally, the first transistor Q1, together with the second transistor Q2 and the third transistor Q3, can realize the switching function in the circuit that controls the battery cell.

[0068] Fourthly, an electronic device is provided, which includes a first battery cell, a second battery cell, and a circuit for controlling the battery cell as described in the first aspect or any one of the first aspects.

[0069] Fifthly, an electronic device is provided, which includes a first battery cell, a second battery cell, and circuitry for controlling the battery cell as described in the second aspect or any one of the second aspects.

[0070] In a sixth aspect, an electronic device is provided, which includes a first battery cell, a second battery cell, and circuitry for controlling the battery cells as described in the third aspect or any one of the third aspects. Attached Figure Description

[0071] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an application scenario according to an embodiment of this application.

[0072] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit for controlling the battery cell according to an embodiment of this application.

[0073] Figure 3 This is a circuit diagram of an SC converter according to an embodiment of this application.

[0074] Figure 4 This is a circuit diagram of an SC converter according to an embodiment of this application.

[0075] Figure 5 This is a circuit diagram of a buck voltage converter according to an embodiment of this application.

[0076] Figure 6 This is a circuit diagram of a boost voltage converter according to an embodiment of this application.

[0077] Figure 7 This is a circuit diagram of a buck-boost voltage converter according to an embodiment of this application.

[0078] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit for controlling the battery cell according to an embodiment of this application.

[0079] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit for controlling the battery cell according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0080] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0081] This application provides a circuit and an electronic device for controlling a battery cell, the circuit of which can be disposed in an electronic device.

[0082] To facilitate understanding of this application, several terms will be introduced first.

[0083] Buck voltage converter: A DC-DC converter circuit that includes an inductor to achieve a step-down output.

[0084] Boost voltage converter: A DC-DC converter circuit that includes an inductor to achieve boost output.

[0085] Buck-boost voltage converters are voltage converters that combine the functions of buck and boost voltage converters. For example, a buck-boost voltage converter can achieve either boost or buck output from the first terminal to the second terminal.

[0086] A bidirectional buck-boost voltage converter is a voltage converter that can function as both a buck and boost voltage converter in both forward and reverse directions. For example, by adjusting the control logic, a bidirectional buck-boost voltage converter can use the same circuitry to achieve buck-boost output from the first terminal to the second terminal, and also achieve buck-boost output from the second terminal to the first terminal.

[0087] It should be noted that the buck / boost voltage converters in the embodiments of this application are all positive voltage buck / boost converters. A positive voltage buck / boost converter refers to a buck / boost converter where the input voltage and output voltage have the same polarity. A buck / boost converter can refer to a buck voltage converter, a boost voltage converter, or a BCUB-boost voltage converter.

[0088] Switched capacitor (SC) converter: A type of DC-DC converter whose power stage circuitry does not include an inductor. It can achieve buck or boost output by adjusting the control logic. SC converters can only achieve multiple conversions between input and output voltages, thus limiting their application scenarios.

[0089] Constant current (CC) / constant voltage (CV) charging modes: CC charging mode refers to constant current charging mode, meaning the charging current of the battery remains constant during the charging process. CV charging mode refers to constant voltage charging mode, meaning the voltage difference between the positive and negative terminals of the battery remains constant during the charging process.

[0090] It should be understood that, in the embodiments of this application, a battery cell refers to an electrochemical battery cell including positive and negative electrodes. A battery cell typically includes a positive electrode material, a negative electrode material, an electrolyte, a separator, and a casing. A battery includes a battery cell and a protection circuit board. The protection circuit board typically includes a management chip, resistors, capacitors, and a printed circuit board (PCB). A battery may include one or more battery cells.

[0091] In the embodiments of this application, battery voltage refers to the voltage at both ends of the battery, and cell voltage refers to the voltage at both ends of the cell.

[0092] Furthermore, in the embodiments of this application, when the transistor acts as a switch, turning on the switch means that the control terminal (e.g., the gate) controls the two ends of the switch (e.g., the source and drain) to conduct. Turning off the switch means that the control terminal (e.g., the gate) controls the two ends of the switch (e.g., the source and drain) to disconnect, that is, the two ends of the switch do not conduct or conduct almost no current.

[0093] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an application scenario according to an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the circuit 100 controlling the battery cell can be located in the electronic device 200. The circuit 100 is connected to the adapter 300 via the input voltage port VBUS to receive the voltage input from the adapter. The electronic device 200 has a first battery cell 101 and a second battery cell 102 connected in series. The circuit is used to control the charging and discharging process of the first battery cell 101 and the second battery cell 102.

[0094] Optionally, the first battery cell 101 and the second battery cell 102 can be disposed in the same battery or in different batteries.

[0095] Optionally, the circuit's input voltage port VBUS can be a USB port, which can support multiple standards, such as Type C, micro USB, and mini USB.

[0096] Optionally, the aforementioned electronic device 200 can be a mobile phone, tablet computer, handheld electronic device, smart terminal, or other types of electronic device.

[0097] In some examples, circuit 100 can be compatible with different adapters. These adapters can be custom adapters or non-custom adapters. A custom adapter can refer to an adapter used to support high-voltage direct charging mode for dual-cell batteries, in which circuit 100 does not need to regulate the charging current. A non-custom adapter can refer to any adapter other than a custom adapter that supports high-voltage direct charging mode.

[0098] In some examples, adapter 300 can communicate with electronic device 200, adjusting the output voltage to regulate the charging current. This eliminates the need for circuit 100 to stabilize the charging current, allowing the custom adapter to achieve constant current charging. High voltage typically refers to voltages above 5.5V. Non-custom adapters can include various types, such as those with output voltages of 5V, 9V, 12V, 15V, or other voltage levels. Non-custom adapters can use a compatible charging mode, where circuit 100 needs to stabilize the charging current; that is, in compatible charging mode, circuit 100 needs to implement constant current charging.

[0099] Alternatively, steady current can also be called constant current. Steady current refers to controlling the magnitude of the current to remain constant at a certain value or with only a very small range of fluctuation.

[0100] Optionally, in high-voltage direct charging mode, the voltage at the input voltage port VBUS of circuit 100 is greater than a preset voltage (e.g., 5.5V). Circuit 100 does not perform current stabilization on the charging current, and the voltage at the input voltage port VBUS is approximately a multiple of the battery voltage. For example, the rated voltage of the first cell 101 and the second cell 102 can be 4V, meaning the rated voltage after the two cells are connected in series is 8V. Then, the voltage at the input voltage port VBUS of circuit 100 can be 16.2V. Circuit 100 can use an SC converter to step down the input voltage by 0.5 times to obtain a voltage of 8.1V, which is then supplied to the two cells.

[0101] Optionally, in compatible charging mode, circuit 100 needs to regulate the charging current. Compatible charging mode is compatible with adapters with different output voltage levels, such as 5V, 9V, 12V, and 15V.

[0102] In some examples, the adapter 300 described above can also be replaced by other electronic devices that support reverse power supply.

[0103] In some examples, the circuit 100 can also be used to control the voltage balancing, reverse power supply, and discharge functions of the dual-cell battery.

[0104] Voltage balancing can refer to achieving voltage balance between the first cell 101 and the second cell 102.

[0105] Reverse power supply can refer to the process where the battery cells in an electronic device supply power to the outside via the input voltage port VBUS (e.g., a USB port).

[0106] Optionally, cell discharge can include two scenarios. The first scenario is discharge when powered by adapter 300, and the second scenario is discharge when powered without adapter 300. In the first scenario, the load suddenly increases and exceeds the adapter's load capacity, and the cell can discharge briefly or for a long time to provide current to the load. In the second scenario, the load is entirely maintained by cell discharge. Here, the load can refer to other circuits in electronic device 200 besides the circuit 100 that controls the cell.

[0107] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a circuit 100 for controlling a battery cell according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 2As shown, the circuit 100 is used to control the charging and discharging of the dual-cell battery and other functions, such as voltage balancing and reverse power supply. The dual-cell battery includes a first cell 101 and a second cell 102 connected in series, with the cathode of the first cell 101 grounded. As an example, the dual-cell battery is a type of battery used in a lithium battery.

[0108] like Figure 2 As shown, circuit 100 includes a first charging path 110 and a second charging path 120.

[0109] The first charging path 110 includes a first SC converter 1221, a second transistor Q2, and a fifth transistor Q5.

[0110] It should be noted that when a transistor is implemented using a MOSFET, the first terminal and the second terminal of the transistor can refer to the source terminal and the drain terminal of the MOSFET, respectively.

[0111] For example, when the MOSFET is an N-type metal-oxide-semiconductor (NMOS), the first terminal can refer to the drain terminal, and the second terminal can refer to the source terminal. When the MOSFET is a P-type metal-oxide-semiconductor (PMOS), the first terminal can refer to the source terminal, and the second terminal can refer to the drain terminal.

[0112] It should be noted that when a MOSFET is used as a switch, the source and drain terminals can be considered the same and interchangeable. For example, the second transistor Q2 and the third transistor Q3 are used as switches in circuit 100.

[0113] When a transistor is implemented using a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), the first terminal and the second terminal can refer to the emitter and collector of the BJT, respectively. For example, when the BJT is an NPN transistor, the first terminal can refer to the collector, and the second terminal can refer to the emitter. When the BJT is a PNP transistor, the first terminal can refer to the emitter, and the second terminal can refer to the collector.

[0114] For SC converters or buck / boost voltage converters, the first and second terminals represent the input and output terminals, respectively. The input and output terminals can be interchanged under different operating conditions.

[0115] The second transistor Q2 is located between the input voltage port VBUS and the first SC converter 1221. The first terminal of the first SC converter 1221 is connected to the second terminal of the second transistor Q2. The second terminal of the first SC converter 1221 is connected to the first terminal of the fifth transistor Q5. The second terminal of the fifth transistor Q5 is used to connect to the anode of the second cell 102. The input voltage port VBUS is used to receive the input voltage (Vin1 or Vin2) output by the adapter. The input voltage provided by the custom adapter is represented as Vin1, and the input voltage provided by the non-custom adapter is represented as Vin2.

[0116] The second charging path 120 includes a first switching converter circuit 1220, a second SC converter 1223, a third transistor Q3, and a fifth transistor Q5.

[0117] The third transistor Q3 is positioned between the input voltage port VBUS and the first switching converter circuit 1220. The first terminal B1 of the first switching converter circuit 1220 is connected to the third transistor Q3, and the second terminal B2 of the first switching converter circuit 1220 is connected to the first terminal E1 of the second SC converter 1223. The second terminal E2 of the second SC converter 1223 is connected to the second terminal of the first SC converter 1221. The first switching converter circuit 1220 supports operation in buck mode from its first terminal B1 to its second terminal B2. For example, the first switching converter circuit 1220 can be a buck voltage converter, a buck-boost voltage converter, or other types of voltage converters that include buck functionality.

[0118] The second transistor Q2 and the third transistor Q3 can function as switches. For example, when the second transistor Q2 is turned on, it means that the second transistor Q2 is acting as a switch and is in the on state, and the circuit is conducting. When the second transistor Q2 is turned off, it means that the second transistor Q2 is acting as a switch and is in the off state, and the circuit is turned off.

[0119] The input voltage port VBUS can be used to receive voltage input from either a custom adapter or a non-custom adapter. Specifically, when powered by a custom adapter, the second transistor Q2 is turned on, the third transistor Q3 is turned off, and the fifth transistor Q5 is turned on, allowing the custom adapter to be powered through the first charging path 110, and circuit 100 operates in high-voltage direct charging mode. When powered by a non-custom adapter, the second transistor Q2 is turned off, the third transistor Q3 is turned on, and the fifth transistor Q5 is turned on, allowing the non-custom adapter to be powered through the second charging path 120, and circuit 100 operates in compatible charging mode.

[0120] like Figure 2 As shown, the input voltage provided by the custom adapter is represented as Vin1, and the input voltage provided by the non-custom adapter is represented as Vin2.

[0121] Next, combine Figure 2 The working principles of the first charging path 110 and the second charging path 120 are introduced.

[0122] A) Working principle of the first charging path 110

[0123] like Figure 2 As shown, when the first charging path 110 is working, the second transistor Q2 is turned on. The first charging path 110 is used to receive the first input voltage Vin1 provided by the custom adapter, and uses the first SC converter 1221 to step down the first input voltage Vin1 to obtain the first supply voltage Vp1. The first supply voltage Vp1 is used to charge the first cell 101 and the second cell 102.

[0124] The custom adapter is suitable for high-voltage direct charging mode. As an example, the first input voltage Vin1 is about 16.2V, the first supply voltage Vp1 is about 8.1V, and the rated voltage of the first cell 101 or the second cell 102 is 4V.

[0125] In some examples, the VBUS port can be a USB port that supports multiple standards, such as Type-C, micro USB, mini USB, etc.

[0126] When the first charging path 110 is operating, the fifth transistor Q5 acts as a power switch and is in the ON state. The first supply voltage Vp1 is supplied to the anode of the second cell 102 through the fifth transistor Q5.

[0127] It should be noted that in some cases, there is no need to stabilize the charging current in the high-voltage direct charging mode. That is, the circuit control module for stabilizing the current can be omitted in the first charging path 110 under such circumstances.

[0128] B). Working principle of the second charging path 120

[0129] When the second charging path 120 is working, the third transistor Q3 is turned on. The second charging path 120 is used to receive the second input voltage Vin2 provided by the non-custom adapter, and uses the first switching converter circuit 1220 to step down the second input voltage Vin2 to obtain the first voltage V1. Then, it is boosted by the second SC converter to obtain the second supply voltage Vp2. The second supply voltage Vp2 is used to supply the anode of the second cell 102 to charge the first cell 101 and the second cell 102.

[0130] The first switching converter circuit 1220 supports buck mode operation from the first terminal B1 to the second terminal B2, enabling variable-ratio buck conversion. The second SC converter 1223 supports fixed-ratio boost mode. The combination of the first switching converter circuit 1220 and the second SC converter 1223 allows for buck-boost processing of different voltage levels from the non-custom adapter input to obtain a second supply voltage Vp2 suitable for charging the battery cell.

[0131] Optionally, the second SC converter 1223 can perform both forward buck and reverse boost functions. When the second SC converter 1223 boosts the voltage input at the first terminal E1 and outputs it through the second terminal E2, this can be called charge pump (CP) mode. When the second SC converter 1223 bucks the voltage input at the second terminal E2 and outputs it to the first terminal E1, this can be called SC buck mode.

[0132] As an example, the voltage conversion ratio of the second SC converter 1223 is 2:1. In other words, the voltage at the second terminal E2 of the second SC converter 1223 is twice the voltage at the first terminal E1.

[0133] For example, when the second charging path 120 is operating, the second SC converter 1223 operates in CP mode.

[0134] As an example, Figure 3 and Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an SC converter according to an embodiment of this application. The converter is modified by interchanging the input terminal Vin and the output terminal Vout, and by changing the control logic. Figure 3 The SC converter in the circuit operates in 1:2 boost mode, i.e., CP mode. Figure 4 The SC converter in the circuit operates in 2:1 buck mode, i.e., SC buck mode.

[0135] As an example, the first SC converter 1221 and the second SC converter 1223 can be used Figure 3 and Figure 4 The SC converter implementation is shown.

[0136] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the SC converter includes transistors M1~M4, capacitor C1, input capacitor C2, and output capacitor C3. The SC converter also includes a corresponding control circuit (not shown in the figure), which controls the SC converter to operate in boost mode or buck mode by controlling the switching on or off of transistors M1~M4.

[0137] When the SC converter operates in 1:2 boost mode, transistors M1 and M2 both receive the input voltage Vin. Transistor M3 outputs the output voltage Vout, and transistor M4 is grounded. The first terminal of capacitor C1 is connected to transistors M1 and M3, and the second terminal of capacitor C1 is connected to transistors M2 and M4.

[0138] like Figure 3 As shown, in 1:2 boost mode, the SC converter operates based on a cycle. One operating cycle contains two phases. In the first phase, M1 and M4 are turned on, and the voltage across capacitor C1 is charged to Vin. In the second phase, M1 and M4 are turned off first, and then M2 and M3 are turned on. The voltage Vout is equal to Vin + the voltage difference across capacitor C1 (which is equal to Vin), that is, Vout = 2 × Vin.

[0139] like Figure 4 As shown, when the SC converter operates in 2:1 buck mode, transistor M3 receives the input voltage Vin, transistor M4 is grounded, and transistors M1 and M2 are both used to output the output voltage Vout.

[0140] When the SC converter operates in 2:1 buck mode, it operates on a periodic basis. One operating cycle contains two phases. In the first phase, transistors M4 and M1 are turned on, and the voltage across capacitor C1 is discharged to Vin. In the second phase, transistors M4 and M1 are turned off first, and then transistors M3 and M2 are turned on. The voltage Vout is equal to Vin minus the voltage difference across capacitor C1 (which is equal to Vout), i.e., 2 × Vout = Vin.

[0141] It should be understood that Figure 3 and Figure 4 As an example only, the SC converter can also include other types of implementations.

[0142] Optionally, by changing the control logic, the first SC converter 1221 can operate in both buck mode and bypass mode. In bypass mode, the first SC converter 1221 functions as a power switch without voltage conversion. Taking an input voltage to output voltage ratio of 2:1 as an example, when the first SC converter 1221 operates in buck mode, the circuit can achieve a charging rate of 4 times the cell voltage, meaning the charging rate is 4 times higher than in single-cell mode. When the first SC converter 1221 operates in bypass mode, the circuit can achieve a charging rate of 2 times the cell voltage, meaning the charging rate is 2 times higher than in single-cell mode.

[0143] Optionally, unlike the second SC converter 1223, the first SC converter 1221 may not contain the logic circuit for CP, that is, the first SC converter 1221 does not contain the control logic for implementing reverse boost.

[0144] In some examples, by adjusting the control logic, the first terminal B1 to the second terminal B2 of the first switching converter circuit 1220 supports buck mode, and the second terminal B2 to the first terminal B1 supports boost mode. The first switching converter circuit 1220 can be implemented by a buck voltage converter.

[0145] As an example, Figure 5 and Figure 6 Schematic diagrams of the structure of a buck voltage converter and a boost voltage converter according to an embodiment of this application are shown respectively. Figure 2 The first switching converter circuit 1220 in the middle can be adopted Figure 5 The buck voltage converter is implemented in the middle, when interchanged Figure 5 After the input Vin and output Vout of the Buck voltage converter in the middle, it is... Figure 6 The boost voltage converter in the system.

[0146] like Figure 5 As shown, the Buck voltage converter includes transistors M11 and M12, inductor L, input capacitor C11, and output capacitor C12. Additionally, the Buck voltage converter includes a control circuit (not shown) for controlling the switching on and off of transistors M11-M12. Figure 6 The structure of the boost voltage converter and Figure 5 The two capacitors are identical, except that the input terminal Vin and the output terminal Vout are interchanged. Correspondingly, the input capacitor C11 and the output capacitor C12 are also interchanged.

[0147] like Figure 5 As shown, the Buck voltage converter operates on a cyclic basis, and Vout < Vin. One operating cycle consists of two phases. In the first phase, M11 is turned on, the current in inductor L increases, and the inductor stores energy. In the second phase, M11 is first turned off, and then M12 is turned on, the current in inductor L decreases, and the inductor energy is transferred to the output Vout.

[0148] like Figure 6 As shown, the boost voltage converter operates on a cyclic basis, and Vout > Vin. One operating cycle consists of two phases. In the first phase, M12 is turned on, the current in inductor L increases, and the inductor stores energy. In the second phase, M12 is first turned off, and then M11 is turned on, the current in inductor L decreases, and the inductor energy is transferred to the output Vout.

[0149] like Figure 5 and Figure 6 It can be seen that for the same physical circuit, by interchanged between the circuit's input Vin and output Vout, the circuit can be used as a buck voltage converter or a boost voltage converter.

[0150] In some examples, the first switching circuit 1220 can also be a buck-boost voltage converter.

[0151] As an example, Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a buck-boost circuit according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 7 As shown, the buck-boost circuit includes transistors M11-M14, inductor L, input capacitor C11, and output capacitor C12. Additionally, the buck-boost voltage converter includes a control circuit (not shown) for controlling the switching on and off of transistors M11-M14. The circuit supports both boost and buck converters of the same polarity between its input terminal Vin and output terminal Vout.

[0152] When the buck-boost voltage converter operates in buck mode, Vout < Vin. The operating principles of transistors M11 and M12 and inductor L are the same as those of... Figure 5 Similarly, M13 is normally open and M4 is normally closed.

[0153] When the buck-boost voltage converter is operating in boost mode, Vout > Vin. The operating principles of M13, M14, and inductor L are the same as those of... Figure 5 Similarly, M11 is normally open and M12 is normally closed.

[0154] It should be understood that Figures 5-7 As an example only and not a limitation, buck voltage converters, boost voltage converters, or buck-boost voltage converters may also include other types of implementations.

[0155] Figure 2 The fifth transistor Q5 in the circuit is used for current stabilization when the second charging path 120 is operating.

[0156] In this embodiment, the circuit 100 controlling the battery cell includes a first charging path 110 and a second charging path 120. The first charging path 110 uses a first SC converter 1221 to achieve a fixed-ratio voltage conversion, enabling high-voltage direct charging for use with custom adapters. The second charging path 120 includes a first switching converter circuit 1220 and a second SC converter 1223. The first switching converter circuit 1220 can operate in buck mode from its first terminal B1 to its second terminal B2, achieving a variable-ratio voltage conversion for use with non-custom adapters. Therefore, the circuit 100 is compatible with both custom and non-custom adapters, improving the flexibility and management efficiency of controlling the charging and discharging of the battery cell.

[0157] Optionally, the operating state of the fifth transistor Q5 can be controlled by the second control circuit 1224. For example, when the second charging path 120 is operating, the second control circuit 1224 can control the gate voltage of the fifth transistor Q5, so that the current through the fifth transistor Q5 is stabilized within a preset range. When the first charging path 110 is operating, the second control circuit 1224 can control the fifth transistor Q5 to be in a fully turned-on state, equivalent to a power switch.

[0158] Fully turning on can refer to reducing the transistor's own on-resistance to a minimum. In the embodiments of this application, when the transistor is fully turned on, it can be considered to be in a switching state, at which time the transistor operates in the deep linear region. When the transistor is used for voltage / current regulation, it can be considered to be in an adjustment state, at which time the transistor operates in the saturation region or the linear region.

[0159] When a transistor is used as a power switch, its gate is at a high / low level. However, when a transistor is used for voltage / current regulation, it is in an adjustment state, and its gate voltage is at an intermediate level.

[0160] In some examples, when the second charging path 120 is operating, the fifth transistor Q5 is used for current stabilization. The second control circuit 1224 achieves CC current stabilization by adjusting the gate voltage of the fifth transistor Q5 during the CC pre-charge phase of the battery cell. In fast CC, CV, and discharge scenarios, the second control circuit 1224 controls the transistor Q5 to be fully turned on, and the transistor Q5 behaves as a power switch.

[0161] It should be noted that the pre-charge stage mentioned above belongs to the CC stage. Manufacturers sometimes subdivide the CC of lithium batteries into three stages: trickle-charge, pre-charge, and fast-charge.

[0162] Optionally, the circuit 100 also includes a fourth transistor Q4, the first terminal of which is connected to the second terminal B2 of the first switching converter circuit 1220 and the first terminal E1 of the second SC converter 1223, and the second terminal of which is connected to the anode of the first battery cell 101.

[0163] Optionally, the operating state of the fourth transistor Q4 can be controlled by the first control circuit 1225. The first control circuit 1225 controls the fourth transistor Q4 to be in different operating states by controlling the gate voltage of the fourth transistor Q4.

[0164] Optionally, Figure 2 The circuit 100 can also realize voltage balancing, discharge and reverse power supply functions.

[0165] C) Voltage equalization function

[0166] Optionally, the fourth transistor Q4, the fifth transistor Q5, and the second SC converter 1223 are used to implement the voltage balancing function of the two cells.

[0167] When the first battery cell 101 and the second battery cell 102 are voltage balanced by the second SC converter 1223, the fourth transistor Q4 acts as a power switch and is in the on state, and the fifth transistor Q5 acts as a power switch and is in the on state.

[0168] For example, when the cell voltages of the first cell 101 and the second cell 102 are not equal, the first control circuit 1225 is used to control the fourth transistor Q4 to turn on. Therefore, the circuit containing the first cell 101, the fourth transistor Q4, the second SC converter 1223, and the second cell 102 is turned on. The second SC converter 1223 realizes the voltage balance of the two cells in SC mode or CP mode, realizes the charge transfer between the first cell 101 and the second cell 102, and makes the voltage balance of the two cells equal.

[0169] Specifically, when the cell voltage of the second cell 102 is greater than the cell voltage of the first cell 101, the second SC converter 1223 transfers the charge of the second cell 102 to the first cell 101. At this time, the second SC converter 1223 operates in SC mode, that is, it steps down the voltage input at the second terminal E2 and outputs it to the first terminal E1.

[0170] When the cell voltage of the first cell 101 is greater than the cell voltage of the second cell 102, the second SC converter 1220 transfers the charge of the first cell to the second cell. At this time, the second SC converter 1223 operates in CP mode, that is, it boosts the voltage input at the first terminal E1 and outputs it through the second terminal E2.

[0171] Optionally, when performing voltage equalization on the two cells, the first control circuit 1225 can control the fourth transistor Q4 to be in a fully turned-on state, that is, the fourth transistor Q4 acts as a power switch.

[0172] In this embodiment, the voltage balancing function of the dual-cell battery can be achieved by using transistor Q4 and the second SC converter 1223, which reduces the design complexity and product cost of circuit 100.

[0173] D). Discharge function

[0174] In some examples, transistor Q4 and the first battery cell 101 can discharge to the load when the load current exceeds the adapter's power supply capacity. For example, the second terminal B2 of the first switching converter circuit 1220 (or the first terminal E1 of the second SC converter) is connected to the system power supply terminal Vsys, and the first control circuit 1225 is also used to control the fourth transistor Q4 to conduct when the load current exceeds the adapter's power supply capacity, so that the first battery cell 101 supplies power to the load through the system power supply terminal Vsys.

[0175] The aforementioned load can refer to other circuits in the electronic device 200 besides the circuit 100 controlling the battery cell. When the adapter is charging, the adapter needs to supply power to the aforementioned circuits in addition to powering the battery cell. However, if the adapter's power supply is insufficient, the battery cell needs to provide instantaneous power to the load. In this case, the first battery cell 101 can supply power to the load through the system power supply terminal Vsys. At this time, the fourth transistor Q4 is in the conducting state, and the voltage difference between the anode of the first battery cell 101 and the system power supply terminal Vsys is kept constant by adjusting the gate voltage. Thus, the fourth transistor Q4 can be reused for discharging to the load, reducing the design complexity and product cost of the circuit controlling the battery cell.

[0176] In the discharge scenario, the first control circuit 1225 can simulate a feedback loop to adjust the gate voltage of transistor Q4 in order to discharge the load.

[0177] E). Reverse power supply

[0178] In some examples, the first switching converter circuit 1220, the second SC converter 1223, and the fifth transistor Q5 can also implement reverse power supply functionality. For example, in the case of reverse power supply, the second SC converter 1223 operates in buck mode from its second terminal E2 to its first terminal E1, the first switching converter circuit 1220 operates in boost mode (or, step-up mode) from its second terminal B2 to its first terminal B1, and the fifth transistor Q5 acts as a power switch and is in the ON state.

[0179] Specifically, the second terminal E2 of the second SC converter 1223 can receive the voltage provided by the second battery cell 102, step it down, and output it through the first terminal E1. The second terminal B2 of the first switching converter circuit 1220 receives the voltage output from the first terminal E1 of the second SC converter 1223, and after boosting it, outputs a reverse power supply voltage to the outside through the first terminal B1.

[0180] In this embodiment, the second SC converter 1223, the first switching converter circuit 1220, and the fifth transistor Q5 can be reused in the case of reverse power supply, thereby reducing the design complexity and product cost of the cell control circuit.

[0181] In this embodiment, the fourth transistor Q4 is in the on state when: voltage balancing between the first and second cells is achieved, and when the first cell discharges to the load. Thus, the fourth transistor Q4 can be multiplexed under both voltage balancing and load discharge conditions, reducing the design complexity and product cost of the cell control circuit.

[0182] Optionally, such as Figure 2 As shown, the circuit 100 also includes a first transistor Q1. The first terminal of the first transistor Q1 is connected to the input voltage port VBUS of the circuit 100, and the second terminal of the first transistor Q1 is connected to the first terminal of the second transistor Q2 and the first terminal of the third transistor Q3.

[0183] Optionally, the first transistor Q1 can be housed in the same chip as other components in circuit 100, or it can be housed independently.

[0184] Optionally, the first transistor Q1, together with the second transistor Q2 and the third transistor Q3, can realize the switching function in the circuit that controls the battery cell.

[0185] Optionally, the switching on or off of the transistors (e.g., the first transistor Q1, the second transistor Q2, or the third transistor Q3) in the circuit 100 can be controlled by the switch control circuit 1222.

[0186] For example, when the first charging path 110 is operating, the switch control circuit 1222 can turn off transistor Q3 and turn on transistors Q1 and Q2. When the second charging path 120 is operating, the switch control circuit 1222 can turn off transistor Q2 and turn on transistors Q1 and Q3.

[0187] Alternatively, transistors Q1 to Q5 can be implemented using MOSFETs.

[0188] Optionally, the components in circuit 100 can be integrated into one chip, or they can be disposed in multiple chips respectively. This application embodiment does not limit this. For example, transistors Q1 to Q3 in circuit 100 can be integrated into one chip, while the switch control circuit 1222 can be integrated into another chip. Alternatively, transistors Q4 and Q5 in circuit 100 can be integrated into one chip, while the first control circuit 1225 and the second control circuit 1224 can be integrated into another chip.

[0189] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit structure of a control circuit 100 for a battery cell according to another embodiment of this application. Wherein, Figure 8 and Figure 2 The difference in their circuits is: Figure 8 Circuit 100 removes the fifth transistor Q5, and its current stabilization function for the dual-cell circuit is transferred to the fourth transistor Q4. The first terminal E1 of the second SC converter 1223 is reconnected to the anode of the first cell 101.

[0190] For the sake of brevity, Figure 8 and Figure 2 The same or similar content will not be repeated here. Figure 8 The circuit 100 includes a first charging path 110 and a second charging path 120. The first charging path 110 includes a first SC converter 1221 and a second transistor Q2. The second charging path 120 includes a first switching converter circuit 1220, a second SC converter 1223, a third transistor Q3, and a fourth transistor Q4.

[0191] A) Working principle of the first charging path 110

[0192] and Figure 2 compared to, Figure 8 The first charging path 110 does not include a fifth transistor Q5. Therefore, the first supply voltage Vp1 can be directly supplied to the anode of the second cell 102 without passing through other components. This simplifies the circuitry of the first charging path 110. The remaining parts operate on a similar principle and will not be described in detail here.

[0193] B). Working principle of the second charging path 120

[0194] and Figure 2 compared to, Figure 8 The second charging path 120 in the circuit does not need to pass through the fifth transistor Q5, but instead passes through the fourth transistor Q4, which can be used for current stabilization. The remaining parts operate on a similar principle and will not be described in detail here.

[0195] It should be understood that the principle of the fourth transistor Q4 for current stabilization is the same as... Figure 2The current stabilization principle of the fifth transistor Q5 in the series is similar, and will not be elaborated here for the sake of simplicity.

[0196] C) Voltage equalization function

[0197] exist Figure 8 In this circuit, the second SC converter 1223 is used to implement voltage balancing between the two battery cells. For example... Figure 2 In contrast, the voltage balancing path does not include the fourth transistor Q4 and the fifth transistor Q5.

[0198] For example, when the cell voltages of the first cell 101 and the second cell 102 are not equal, the second SC converter 1223 turns on the SC mode or CP mode to realize the charge transfer between the first cell 101 and the second cell 102, so that the voltage of the two cells is balanced.

[0199] In this embodiment, the second SC converter 1223 can be reused to achieve both a compatible charging mode for the dual-cell batteries and a voltage balancing function for the dual-cell batteries, thereby reducing the design complexity of the circuit and the product cost.

[0200] D). Discharge function

[0201] In some examples, transistor Q4 and the first battery cell 101 can discharge to the load when the load demand exceeds the adapter's power supply capacity. The principle of the discharge function is similar to... Figure 2 Similarities will not be elaborated upon here for the sake of brevity.

[0202] E). Reverse power supply

[0203] In some examples, the first switching converter circuit 1220, the second SC converter 1223, and the fourth transistor Q4 can also implement reverse power supply functionality. For example, in the case of reverse power supply, the second SC converter 1223 operates in buck mode from its second terminal E2 to its first terminal E1, the first switching converter circuit 1220 operates in boost mode (or, step-up mode) from its second terminal B2 to its first terminal B1, and the fourth transistor Q4 acts as a power switch and is in the ON state.

[0204] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit 100 for controlling the battery cell according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 9 and Figure 8 The difference in circuit 100 is that in the second charging path 120, Figure 9 The circuit 100 in the circuit replaces the first switching converter circuit 1220 with a buck-boost voltage converter 1226. In addition, in the first charging path 110, the first SC converter 1221 is directly connected to the anode of the second cell 102.

[0205] like Figure 9 As shown, circuit 100 includes a first charging path 110 and a second charging path 120. The first charging path 110 includes a first SC converter 1221 and a second transistor Q2. The second charging path 120 includes a buck-boost voltage converter 1226, a third transistor Q3, and a fifth transistor Q5.

[0206] A) Working principle of the first charging path 110

[0207] and Figure 2 compared to, Figure 9 The first charging path 110 does not pass through the fifth transistor Q5. Therefore, in high-voltage direct charging mode, the charging current does not need to pass through the fifth transistor Q5. This simplifies the circuit of the first charging path 110 and improves charging efficiency. The remaining parts operate on a similar principle, and for simplicity, will not be elaborated here.

[0208] B). Working principle of the second charging path 120

[0209] and Figure 2 compared to, Figure 9 The buck-boost voltage converter 1226 in the circuit can achieve variable-ratio boost or buck conversion. In other words, in compatible charging mode, the charging current charges the dual cells through the third transistor Q3, the buck-boost voltage converter 1226, and the fifth transistor Q5. This allows for compatible charging without the need for a second SC converter 1223, improving the management efficiency of the circuit 100.

[0210] Optionally, the fifth transistor Q5 is used for current stabilization when the second charging path 120 is operating.

[0211] Optionally, the buck-boost voltage converter 1226 can be a unidirectional buck-boost voltage converter or a bidirectional buck-boost voltage converter. In the case of a bidirectional buck-boost voltage converter, reverse power supply functionality can also be implemented.

[0212] C) Voltage equalization function

[0213] exist Figure 9 In this circuit, the fourth transistor Q4, the fifth transistor Q5, and the second SC converter 1223 are used to achieve voltage balancing between the two battery cells. Their working principle is similar to... Figure 2 Similarities will not be elaborated upon here for the sake of brevity.

[0214] D). Discharge function

[0215] In some examples, transistor Q4 and the first battery cell 101 can discharge to the load when the load power consumption exceeds the adapter's power supply capacity. Specifically, the first terminal of the fourth transistor Q4 is connected to the system power supply terminal Vsys. When the first battery cell 101 supplies power to the load through the system power supply terminal Vsys, the fourth transistor Q4 is in a conducting state, and its gate voltage is adjusted to maintain a constant voltage difference between the anode of the first battery cell 101 and the system power supply terminal Vsys.

[0216] The principle of discharge function and Figure 2 Similarities will not be elaborated upon here for the sake of brevity.

[0217] E). Reverse power supply

[0218] In some examples, when the buck-boost voltage converter 1226 is a bidirectional buck-boost voltage converter, the bidirectional buck-boost voltage converter 1226 and the fifth transistor Q5 can also achieve reverse power supply function. Specifically, the bidirectional buck-boost voltage converter 1226 can achieve variable-ratio buck-boost conversion of voltage in both directions.

[0219] For example, in the case of reverse power supply from two battery cells, the bidirectional buck-boost voltage converter 1226 receives the voltage output from the second battery cell 102 through its second terminal A2 for boosting or bucking, and outputs the reverse power supply voltage through its first terminal A1. The fifth transistor Q5 acts as a power switch and is in the ON state.

[0220] In this embodiment, the bidirectional buck-boost voltage converter 1226 can be reused to simultaneously achieve a compatible charging mode for dual-cell batteries and reverse power supply function for the batteries, thereby reducing the design complexity of the circuit and the product cost.

[0221] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0222] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0223] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0224] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0225] In addition, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit.

[0226] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A circuit for controlling a battery cell, characterized in that, The battery cell includes a first battery cell and a second battery cell connected in series, wherein the cathode of the first battery cell is used for grounding, and the circuit includes: The first charging path includes a first switched-capacitor SC converter, a second transistor Q2, and a fifth transistor Q5. The second transistor Q2 is disposed between the input voltage port and the first switched-capacitor SC converter. The first terminal of the first switched-capacitor SC converter is connected to the second transistor Q2. The second terminal of the first switched-capacitor SC converter is connected to the first terminal of the fifth transistor Q5. The second terminal of the fifth transistor Q5 is used to connect to the anode of the second battery cell. The input voltage port is used to receive the input voltage. The second charging path includes a first switching converter circuit, a second switched-capacitor SC converter, a third transistor Q3, and a fifth transistor Q5. The third transistor Q3 is disposed between the input voltage port and the first switching converter circuit. A first terminal of the first switching converter circuit is connected to the third transistor Q3. A second terminal of the first switching converter circuit is connected to a first terminal of the second switched-capacitor SC converter. A second terminal of the second switched-capacitor SC converter is connected to a second terminal of the first switched-capacitor SC converter. The first switching converter circuit supports operating in buck mode in the direction from its first terminal to its second terminal.

2. The circuit as described in claim 1, characterized in that, When the first charging path is working, the second transistor Q2 acts as a switch and is turned on, and the third transistor Q3 acts as a switch and is turned off. When the second charging path is working, the second transistor Q2 acts as a switch and is turned off, and the third transistor Q3 acts as a switch and is turned on.

3. The circuit as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The fifth transistor Q5 acts as a power switch and is in the ON state when the first charging path is working; and, The fifth transistor Q5 is used for current stabilization when the second charging path is operating.

4. The circuit as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The second switched capacitor SC converter supports a boost mode from its first terminal to its second terminal and a buck mode from its second terminal to its first terminal.

5. The circuit as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The circuit further includes a fourth transistor Q4, the first terminal of which is connected to the second terminal of the first switching converter circuit and the first terminal of the second switched capacitor SC converter, and the second terminal of which is connected to the anode of the first battery cell.

6. The circuit as described in claim 5, characterized in that, When the first cell and the second cell are voltage balanced through the second switched capacitor SC converter, the fourth transistor Q4 and the fifth transistor Q5 are both power switches and are in the on state.

7. The circuit as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The first terminal of the fourth transistor Q4 is connected to the system power supply terminal. When the first cell supplies power to the load through the system power supply terminal, the fourth transistor Q4 is in the on state, and its gate voltage is adjusted to keep the voltage difference between the anode of the first cell and the system power supply terminal constant.

8. The circuit as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, When the first cell and the second cell are powered in reverse through the second switched capacitor SC converter and the first switching converter circuit, the second switched capacitor SC converter operates in buck mode from its second terminal to its first terminal, the first switching converter circuit operates in boost mode from its second terminal to its first terminal, and the fifth transistor Q5 acts as a power switch and is in the on state.

9. The circuit as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Also includes: A first transistor Q1 has its first terminal connected to the input voltage port, and its second terminal is connected to the first terminal of the second transistor Q2 and the first terminal of the third transistor Q3.

10. A circuit for controlling a battery cell, characterized in that, The battery cell includes a first battery cell and a second battery cell connected in series, wherein the cathode of the first battery cell is used for grounding, and the circuit includes: The first charging path includes a first switched-capacitor SC converter and a second transistor Q2, wherein the second transistor Q2 is disposed between the input voltage port and the first switched-capacitor SC converter, a first terminal of the first switched-capacitor SC converter is connected to the second transistor Q2, a second terminal of the first switched-capacitor SC converter is used to connect to the anode of the second battery cell, and the input voltage port is used to receive the input voltage. The second charging path includes a first switching converter circuit, a second switched-capacitor SC converter, a third transistor Q3, and a fourth transistor Q4. The third transistor Q3 is disposed between the input voltage port and the first switching converter circuit. A first terminal of the first switching converter circuit is connected to the third transistor Q3, and a second terminal of the first switching converter circuit is connected to the first terminal of the fourth transistor Q4. The second terminal of the fourth transistor Q4 is connected to the first terminal of the second switched-capacitor SC converter, and the second terminal of the second switched-capacitor SC converter is connected to the second terminal of the first switched-capacitor SC converter. The first switching converter circuit supports operation in buck mode from its first terminal to its second terminal.

11. The circuit as described in claim 10, characterized in that, When the first charging path is working, the second transistor Q2 acts as a switch and is turned on, and the third transistor Q3 acts as a switch and is turned off. When the second charging path is working, the second transistor Q2 acts as a switch and is turned off, and the third transistor Q3 acts as a switch and is turned on.

12. The circuit as described in claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, The fourth transistor Q4 is used for current stabilization when the second charging path is operating.

13. The circuit as described in claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, The second switched capacitor SC converter supports a boost mode from its first terminal to its second terminal and a buck mode from its second terminal to its first terminal.

14. The circuit as described in claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, The first terminal of the fourth transistor Q4 is connected to the system power supply terminal. When the first cell supplies power to the load through the system power supply terminal, the fourth transistor Q4 is in the on state, and its gate voltage is adjusted to keep the voltage difference between the anode of the first cell and the system power supply terminal constant.

15. The circuit as described in claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, When the first cell and the second cell are powered in reverse through the second switched capacitor SC converter and the first switching converter circuit, the second switched capacitor SC converter operates in buck mode from its second terminal to its first terminal, the first switching converter circuit operates in boost mode from its second terminal to its first terminal, and the fourth transistor Q4 acts as a power switch and is in the on state.

16. The circuit as described in claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, Also includes: A first transistor Q1 has its first terminal connected to the input voltage port, and its second terminal is connected to the first terminal of the second transistor Q2 and the first terminal of the third transistor Q3.

17. A circuit for controlling a battery cell, characterized in that, The battery cell includes a first battery cell and a second battery cell connected in series, wherein the cathode of the first battery cell is used for grounding, and the circuit includes: The first charging path includes a first switched-capacitor SC converter and a second transistor Q2, wherein the second transistor Q2 is disposed between the input voltage port and the first switched-capacitor SC converter, the first terminal of the first switched-capacitor SC converter is connected to the second transistor Q2, the second terminal of the first switched-capacitor SC converter is connected to the anode of the second battery cell, and the input voltage port is used to receive the input voltage. The second charging path includes a buck-boost voltage converter, a third transistor Q3, and a fifth transistor Q5. The third transistor Q3 is disposed between the input voltage port and the buck-boost voltage converter. The first terminal of the buck-boost voltage converter is connected to the third transistor Q3, and the second terminal of the buck-boost voltage converter is connected to the first terminal of the fifth transistor Q5. The second terminal of the fifth transistor Q5 is used to connect to the anode of the second battery cell.

18. The circuit as described in claim 17, characterized in that, When the first charging path is working, the second transistor Q2 acts as a switch and is turned on, and the third transistor Q3 acts as a switch and is turned off. When the second charging path is working, the second transistor Q2 acts as a switch and is turned off, and the third transistor Q3 acts as a switch and is turned on.

19. The circuit as described in claim 17 or 18, characterized in that, The fifth transistor Q5 is used for current stabilization when the second charging path is operating.

20. The circuit as described in claim 17 or 18, characterized in that, The circuit also includes: a second switched-capacitor SC converter and a fourth transistor Q4. The second terminal of the second switched capacitor SC converter is used to connect to the second terminal of the buck-boost voltage converter and the first terminal of the fifth transistor Q5. The first terminal of the second switched capacitor SC converter is used to connect to the first terminal of the fourth transistor Q4. The second terminal of the fourth transistor is used to connect to the anode of the first cell.

21. The circuit as described in claim 20, characterized in that, The second switched capacitor SC converter supports a boost mode from its first terminal to its second terminal and a buck mode from its second terminal to its first terminal.

22. The circuit as described in claim 21, characterized in that, When the first cell and the second cell are voltage balanced through the second switched capacitor SC converter, the fourth transistor Q4 and the fifth transistor Q5 are both power switches and are in the on state.

23. The circuit as described in claim 20, characterized in that, The first terminal of the fourth transistor Q4 is connected to the system power supply terminal. When the first cell supplies power to the load through the system power supply terminal, the fourth transistor Q4 is in the on state, and its gate voltage is adjusted to keep the voltage difference between the anode of the first cell and the system power supply terminal constant.

24. The circuit as described in claim 17 or 18, characterized in that, The buck-boost voltage converter is a bidirectional buck-boost voltage converter. When the first cell and the second cell are powered in reverse, the bidirectional buck-boost voltage converter boosts or bucks the voltage in the direction from its second terminal to its first terminal. The fifth transistor Q5 acts as a power switch and is in the on state.

25. The circuit as described in claim 17 or 18, characterized in that, Also includes: A first transistor Q1 has its first terminal connected to the input voltage port, and its second terminal is connected to the first terminal of the second transistor Q2 and the first terminal of the third transistor Q3.

26. An electronic device, characterized in that, include: The first and second battery cells are connected in series; The circuit according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the circuit is used to control the first battery cell and the second battery cell.

27. An electronic device, characterized in that, include: The first and second battery cells are connected in series; The circuit according to any one of claims 10 to 16, wherein the circuit is used to control the first battery cell and the second battery cell.

28. An electronic device, characterized in that, include: The first and second battery cells are connected in series; The circuit according to any one of claims 17 to 25, wherein the circuit is used to control the first battery cell and the second battery cell.

Images