Wireless module location confirmation in electric vehicle battery pack

Abstract

Aspects of the disclosure include generating a baseline network profile based on a first plurality of signal characteristics associated with a first plurality of wireless signals exchanged between a first plurality of battery cells, receiving an indication that at least one battery cell of the first plurality of battery cells has been replaced by at least one new battery cell to form a second plurality of battery cells, generating an updated network profile based on a second plurality of signal characteristics associated with a second plurality of wireless signals exchanged between the second plurality of battery cells, the baseline network profile and the updated network profile are compared, whether a difference between the baseline network profile and the updated network profile exceeds a threshold is determined, and at least one misaligned battery cell of the second plurality of battery cells is identified based on the difference exceeding the threshold.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 400094, filed on August 23, 2022, entitled “Wireless Module Position Confirmation in Electric Vehicle Battery Pack,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to the field of automotive systems, and more particularly to a battery management system (BMS) solution in a vehicle, such as an electric vehicle (EV). Background Art

[0004] A battery pack may include multiple modules placed at different locations in the battery pack. Knowing the location of modules in an EV battery pack is very important. For example, in a vehicle, information related to the location of battery modules can allow the BMS controller to ensure that each module (and the battery cells within the module) are operating within specified ranges, such as in terms of voltage and temperature. In another example, thermal regulation may require knowing the location of a module that is affected by temperature. In use, it is often necessary to know the location of a faulty module to repair the battery pack. During pack repair, a misplaced module may cause further problems in subsequent repairs or difficulties when repairing the pack. Therefore, improvements may be required. Summary of the invention

[0005] The present invention discloses a wireless BMS (wBMS) solution based on adding automatic placement verification to the service flow and potentially the manufacturing flow. Automatic placement verification allows the host controller to verify the location of the battery module after replacement. In one aspect, an example wBMS solution can use wireless network performance indicators to build group-specific performance graphs. Network performance indicators such as node-to-node and node-to-manager RSSI can be generated as part of the network health report, and performance graphs can be built during the module service flow, before replacement, and after replacement. Out-of-order modules can then be detected based on a comparison of network performance indicators at different times. Techniques such as least mean square curve fitting can be applied to confirm that only replaced nodes have changed and match the location in the access control list (ACL).

[0006] Aspects of the present disclosure include systems and methods for detecting one or more misplaced batteries, including: generating a baseline network profile based on a first plurality of signal characteristics associated with a first plurality of wireless signals exchanged between a first plurality of battery cells, receiving an indication that at least one battery cell of the first plurality of battery cells has been replaced by at least one new battery cell to form a second plurality of battery cells, generating an updated network profile based on a second plurality of signal characteristics associated with a second plurality of wireless signals exchanged between the second plurality of battery cells, comparing the baseline network profile and the updated network profile, determining whether a difference between the baseline network profile and the updated network profile exceeds a threshold, and identifying at least one misplaced battery cell of the second plurality of battery cells based on the difference exceeding the threshold. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure and its features and advantages, please refer to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent like parts, and in which:

[0008] Figure 1 An example of a schematic diagram of a system implementing a wired BMS solution according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0009] Figure 2 An example of a READ command and response on an isolated serial port interface (isoSPI) bus in a wired BMS solution according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0010] Figure 3 An example of using an access control list (ACL) in a wireless BMS (wBMS) solution according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0011] Figure 4 Examples of wireless battery packs according to aspects of the present disclosure are shown.

[0012] Figure 5 Various aspects of using ACL in a wBMS solution according to aspects of the present disclosure are shown.

[0013] Figure 6A-6B An example of module misalignment according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0014] Figure 7 An example of manager-to-node received signal strength indicator (RSSI) values ​​for a dual manager 10-node packet in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0015] Figure 8 An example of node-to-node RSSI values ​​for a 10-node packet in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0016] Fig. 9An example of using network performance characteristics (eg, node-to-node and manager-to-node RSSI) to confirm the location of a wireless node within a packet is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0017] Fig. 10A Example results of the proposed algorithm with modules in the correct position according to aspects of the present disclosure are shown.

[0018] Fig. 10B Example results of the proposed algorithm with a misalignment module according to aspects of the present disclosure are shown.

[0019] Fig.11 An example of a method for detecting a misaligned battery according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] In a wired BMS solution, the position of the battery monitoring circuit (CSC) in the daisy chain can be fixed and indicate the position of the battery / module in the battery pack. Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a system implementing a wired BMS solution, and Figure 2 The READ command and response on the communication bus (such as isoSPI bus) in the wired BMS solution are shown. In the wired BMS method, the BMS controller knows the location of each battery cell / module based on the location of the data received from the wired BMS monitor when querying the battery pack.

[0021] Specifically, the host controller 100 may send an inquiry signal to the BMS monitors 122-1, 122-2 ... 122-6 via the communication bus. Each BMS monitor may manage each battery cell. Specifically, the BMS monitors 122-1, 122-2 ... 122-6 may monitor the health of the battery cells, control the current of the battery cells, perform maintenance related to the battery cells, etc. In response to the inquiry signal, the BMS monitors 122-1, 122-2 ... 122-6 may respond with a response signal. The response signal is received sequentially by the host controller 100 based on the order of the battery cells / modules. For example, the response signal of the first BMS monitor 122-1 may be arranged before the response signal of the second BMS monitor 122-2. Therefore, the host controller 100 may determine the order of the battery cells / modules based on the received response signal. In addition, the host controller 100 may receive information from the battery pack monitor 150, such as the provided battery current, the provided voltage, etc.

[0022] like Figure 2As shown, data from each BMS monitor may arrive at the host controller 100 sequentially. For example, data from the first BMS monitor 122-1 (shown as device 1) may arrive first, followed by data from the second BMS monitor 122-2 (shown as device 2), and so on. Therefore, in a wired BMS solution, the host controller 100 can clearly determine the location of the module.

[0023] In a wireless BMS (wBMS), each battery module can have one wireless battery monitoring circuit (CSC) or node. Each battery pack can have one or two network managers and a BMS controller. The wireless nodes and network manager can form a local area network based on the node ID and the ACL programmed in the network manager during the pack assembly (manufacturing) and pack service of the battery pack. Since the data from the battery modules does not necessarily arrive at the BMS controller in a specific order, the BMS controller can rely on the hardware address to determine the location of the battery module. Figure 3 It shows how, in a wBMS solution, the location of a battery cell / module in a battery pack is determined based on the location of the wireless node MAC address programmed in the ACL.

[0024] In a wBMS, the location of a battery cell / module in a battery pack may depend on the location of the node ID in the ACL. During pack service, multiple wireless nodes may be replaced and the ACL updated. A service technician may enter the module IDs in the incorrect order when servicing multiple modules. The ACL in the network manager can be reprogrammed during battery pack manufacturing / service to accept connections from nodes in that battery pack. There may not be an automatic join available. The network manager can connect to the correct ID. While incorrect entries can be detected, out-of-order entries cannot. After replacing multiple modules in a pack, the BMS controller may have an incorrect map of the cell / module location in the battery pack, with potential impact on thermal regulation and subsequent battery pack service. Therefore, wBMS solutions pose challenges to the manufacturing and service teams of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in ensuring that technicians and operators detect errors when positioning battery modules within the battery pack.

[0025] Aspects of the present disclosure provide wBMS solutions based on adding automated placement verification to the service process and potentially to the manufacturing process (if not fully automated). In one aspect, an example wBMS solution can use wireless network performance metrics to build battery pack specific performance graphs. Metrics such as node-to-node and node-to-manager RSSI can be generated as part of the network health report, and performance graphs can be built during the module service flow before and after replacement. Out-of-order modules can then be detected based on a comparison of network performance metrics at different times. Techniques such as least mean square curve fitting can be applied to confirm that only replaced nodes have changed and match the locations in the ACL.

[0026] The details of one or more implementations of the subject matter described in this specification are set forth in the description below and the accompanying drawings.

[0027] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that aspects of the present disclosure, in particular aspects of the wireless BMS proposed herein, can be embodied in various ways, for example, as a method, system, computer program product, or computer-readable storage medium. Therefore, aspects of the present disclosure can take the form of a complete hardware implementation, a complete software implementation (including firmware, resident software, microcode, etc.), or an implementation combining software and hardware aspects, which are generally collectively referred to herein as "circuit", "module" or "system". The functions described in the present disclosure can be implemented as an algorithm executed by one or more hardware processing units (e.g., one or more microprocessors) of one or more computers. In various implementations, different steps and parts of steps of each method described herein can be performed by different processing units. In addition, aspects of the present disclosure can take the form of a computer program product, which is contained in one or more computer-readable media, preferably non-transient, containing, for example, stored computer-readable program code thereon. In various implementations, for example, such a computer program can be downloaded (updated) to existing devices and systems (e.g., downloaded to existing analog transmission systems, especially analog video transmission systems using AC coupling, including transmitters, receivers and / or their controllers, etc.), or stored when these devices and systems are manufactured.

[0028] The following detailed description presents various descriptions of specific specific implementations. However, the innovations described herein may be embodied in a variety of different ways, for example, as defined and covered by the claims or selected examples. In the following description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings in which the same reference numerals may represent identical or functionally similar elements. It should be understood that the elements shown in the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. In addition, it should be understood that certain implementations may include more elements and / or a subset of the elements shown in the drawings than shown in the figures. In addition, some embodiments may combine any suitable combination of features from two or more of the accompanying drawings.

[0029] Other features and advantages of the disclosure will be apparent from the following description and from the claims.

[0030] Figure 4 and Figure 5 Various aspects of using ACL in a wBMS solution are shown. In this solution, the wireless manager can reconstruct the cell array based on the location of the wireless node MAC ID in the ACL rather than the arrival time of the data received from the wireless BMS monitor.

[0031] One aspect of the present disclosure includes inputting a hardware identifier of a battery module, a BMS monitor, and / or a battery cell. The hardware identifier may be a unique identifier (such as a media access control (MAC) identifier (ID) or other suitable physical address). The hardware identifier may be input into one or more managers in sequence. Figure 5 Shows Figure 4 The hardware identifier in the ACL of the indicated node. In addition, Figure 5 Communications between nodes (each node having a unique hardware identifier) ​​and a network manager of a host controller are shown.

[0032] According to the first option of service flow, the service process may include:

[0033] 1) Before removing the wireless module, enter / scan the MAC IDs of all pack modules in a specific sequence corresponding to the battery stack sequence. The Service Tool Software (SW) confirms that the entries correspond to the current ACL sequence stored on the Network Manager / BMS Controller.

[0034] 2) After replacing the faulty battery module, enter / scan the MAC IDs of all battery pack modules in the same order. The repair tool software can confirm that the unchanged modules are still in the correct position in the new ACL.

[0035] Fig. 6A and 6B An example of a misplaced module during the above replacement scheme is shown. The risk of the above scheme is that if the technician replaces multiple modules, e.g. Fig. 6A Modules 3 and 9 shown, and scan B instead of A, and scan A instead of B, the service tool cannot detect Figure 6B MAC ID swapping in the new ACL shown. The risk increases with the number of module replacements.

[0036] Specifically, in Fig. 6A and 6BIn some aspects of the disclosure shown, modules 3 and 9 are to be replaced by modules A and B. The ACL may include the hardware addresses of the modules entered in order by a technician. However, the technician may inadvertently enter module B between modules 2 and 4 (to replace module 3) and enter module A after module 8 (to replace module 9). However, module A has been installed in the slot of module 3 and module B has been installed in the slot of module 9. Aspects of the disclosure include mechanisms for detecting such misalignment as described below.

[0037] Implementations of the present disclosure are based on the recognition that wireless network performance metrics that are typically available as part of a network health report can be used to detect out-of-sequence modules, thereby addressing the above-mentioned wBMS challenges. In particular, methods and systems for comparing network performance metrics to detect out-of-sequence modules are disclosed. Example network performance metrics may include node-to-node RSSI and node-to-manager RSSI. RSSI is a measurement of the power present in a received radio signal (generally, the power is higher if the direct line of sight is closer). The node health report contains the average manager-to-node RSSI and the node-to-node RSSI. The wBMS can generate network data packets and network report packets. Nodes and managers can transmit health report packets periodically (e.g., every minute) to enable network health assessment. The node-to-node RSSI and the manager-to-node RSSI are, respectively. Figure 7 and Figure 8 The example use cases shown in provide many reference points. Fig. 9 , provides an illustration of a method for using network performance characteristics (eg, node-to-node and manager-to-node RSSI) to confirm the location of a wireless node within a packet, thereby confirming the MAC ID of a node in an ACL.

[0038] In some implementations, a solution can be implemented in the host controller, where as part of the vehicle diagnostics, the BMS controller runs a routine that takes a snapshot of the network performance (node-to-node RSSI). After replacing a module, the BMS controller repeats the routine to compare to the previous snapshot of network performance. Techniques such as least mean square curve fitting, nearest neighbor, clustering, etc. can be applied to this performance data to confirm that only the replaced node has changed and matches the location in the ACL.

[0039] Fig. 10A shows an example result of the proposed algorithm with the modules in the correct position, while Fig. 10B An example effect of the proposed algorithm is shown for switch modules 2 and 7. Anomalies can be seen in individual RSSI measurements (highlighted in slash mode), packet module measurements, and system level measurements, which can now be corrected. The proposed solution is based on comparing network performance indicators that are part of the network health report to detect out-of-sequence modules.

[0040] In some detailed aspects of the present disclosure, return Figure 4 , one aspect of the present disclosure includes a host controller 400 configured to monitor the battery health and operation of a battery pack 410. The battery pack 410 may include a plurality of nodes 420-1, 420-2...420-n, which are configured to monitor a plurality of batteries 430-1, 430-2...430-n. The battery pack 410 may include a battery pack monitor 450, which is configured to monitor the current level and / or voltage level provided by the battery pack 410. In some aspects, the host controller 400 may communicate wirelessly with the plurality of nodes 420-1, 420-2...420-n via one or more radio integrated circuits (ICs) 412. Each node and associated battery may form a battery module of a plurality of battery modules 440-1, 440-2...440-n. One or more of the plurality of battery modules 440-1, 440-2...440-n may be replaceable (e.g., when defective, unchargeable, damaged, etc.).

[0041] In one aspect of the present disclosure, each of the plurality of nodes 420-1, 420-2 ... 420-n may include a radio IC configured to wirelessly communicate with radio ICs of other nodes and / or with one or more radio ICs 412. Each of the plurality of nodes 420-1, 420-2 ... 420-n may include a BMS monitor configured to monitor the health (e.g., voltage, current, temperature, etc.) of a corresponding battery in the plurality of batteries 430-1, 430-2 ... 430-n and / or determine the strength of a signal received by the radio IC of the corresponding node.

[0042] During operation, before battery replacement, the radio ICs of multiple nodes 420-1, 420-2...420-n can send signals to each other and / or to the radio IC 412 of the battery pack 410. Each radio IC of the corresponding multiple nodes 420-1, 420-2...420-n can receive signals from other radio ICs. The radio ICs and / or BMS monitors of multiple nodes 420-1, 420-2...420-n can measure and / or record the signal properties of the transmission signal from each adjacent radio IC. Therefore, the radio ICs and / or BMS monitors of multiple nodes 420-1, 420-2...420-n can help establish a "baseline" signal property associated with each adjacent radio IC. Examples of signal properties may include signal strength (e.g., received signal strength indicator), frequency response (e.g., signal strength of different transmission frequencies), signal phase information, and / or other related properties.

[0043] In some aspects of the present disclosure, multiple nodes 420-1, 420-2 ... 420-n can transmit signal attributes (via the radio IC or BMS monitor) to the host controller 400 via one or more radio ICs 412. Therefore, the host controller 400 can establish baseline signal attributes associated with multiple battery modules 440-1, 440-2 ... 440-n. Specifically, the host controller 400 can establish transmission / reception signal attributes such as signal strength, frequency response, and / or other attributes between multiple battery modules 440-1, 440-2 ... 440-n. Therefore, the baseline signal attributes can be associated with the position of the module in the battery pack 410.

[0044] During the module replacement process, one or more replacement modules may be inadvertently misplaced. Here, misplacement means that one or more replacement modules are registered in the ACL of the host controller 400 to be placed in a first position in the battery pack 410, but are mistakenly placed in a second position different from the first position. In one aspect of the present disclosure, the host controller 400 can detect misplacement as described below. After replacement, the host controller 400 can instruct the modules (including unchanged modules and newly replaced modules) to send signals to each other to establish updated baseline signal properties. The updated baseline signal properties can be compared with the previously established baseline signal characteristics. If there is any difference in the signal properties that exceeds a specific threshold, the host controller 400 can determine that one or more modules are misplaced.

[0045] In one aspect, the host controller 400 can determine that the signal strength of the two replacement modules is higher or lower than the previous signal strength by a threshold signal strength value. Therefore, the host controller 400 can determine that the two replaced modules are misplaced.

[0046] Alternatively or additionally, in some aspects of the present disclosure, the host controller 400 may receive signals transmitted by a plurality of nodes 420-1, 420-2 ... 420-n (e.g., via one or more radio ICs 412). The host controller 400 may establish baseline signal attributes based on the signals transmitted by the plurality of nodes 420-1, 420-2 ... 420-n. The baseline signal attributes may be associated with the host controller 400, one or more nodes, or a combination thereof.

[0047] In one example aspect of the present disclosure, the radio IC and / or BMS monitor of node 420-2 may sequentially receive transmission signals from the remaining nodes 420-1, 420-3, 420-4, ... 420-n. Based on the received signals transmitted from the neighboring nodes, the radio IC and / or BMS monitor of node 420 / 2 may determine that the signal strength from node 420-3 is the highest (closest to node 420-2 with no obstacles), and the signal strength from node 420 / 1 is second (closest to node 420-2, but the signal may be blocked by wires and / or other infrastructure within the battery package). The radio IC and / or BMS monitor of node 420-2 may determine that the signal strength from node 420-n is the lowest (farthest from node 420-2), and the strength of the signal from node 420-4 is second. In one example, the signal strengths of signals associated with nodes 420-1, 420-3, 420-4, and 420-n may be -45 decibels (dB), -48 dB, -52 dB, and -54 dB, respectively.

[0048] Next, modules 440-1, 440-4 may be replaced. Prior to replacement, module 440-1 may be placed in position A and module 440-4 may be placed in position B. Replacement module 1 (not shown) may be registered in the ACL of host controller 400 as replacement module 440-1 (in position A), and replacement module 2 (not shown) may be registered in the ACL as replacement module 440-4 (in position B). However, during replacement, replacement module 1 is placed in position B and replacement module 2 is placed in position A. Therefore, host controller 100 may have incorrect information about the positions of the replacement modules.

[0049] Next, the host controller 400 can establish updated baseline signal attributes for module 440-2. Specifically, the radio IC and / or BMS monitor of node 420-2 can determine that the signal strengths of the signals associated with replacement module 1 (as registered, but actually replacement module 2), module 440-3, replacement module 2 (as registered, but actually replacement module 1), and module 440-n are -53dB, -48dB, -44dB, and -54dB, respectively. Module 440-2 can send information to the host controller 400. The host controller 400 can identify two signal strength values ​​that deviate from the threshold by more than 3dB. That is, the signal strength of the signal received from replacement module 1 (as recorded in the ACL) is -53dB, which is 8dB lower than the previously measured -45dB. The signal strength of the signal received from replacement module 1 (as recorded in the ACL) is -44dB, which is 8dB higher than the previously measured -52dB. Based on these differences, the host controller 400 can determine that replacement modules 1 and 2 are misplaced.

[0050] Fig.11 A method 1100 of detecting one or more misplaced batteries according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The method 1100 may be performed by the host controller 400, the battery pack 410, the one or more radio ICs 412 and / or subcomponents of the host controller 400, the battery pack 420, or the one or more radio ICs 411.

[0051] At 1105, method 1100 can generate a baseline network profile based on a first plurality of signal characteristics associated with a first plurality of wireless signals exchanged between the first plurality of battery cells. For example, host controller 400 can be configured to and / or provide components for: generating a baseline network profile based on a first plurality of signal characteristics associated with a first plurality of wireless signals exchanged between the first plurality of battery cells.

[0052] At 1110, method 1100 may receive an indication that at least one battery cell of the first plurality of battery cells has been replaced by at least one new battery cell to form a second plurality of battery cells. For example, host controller 400 may be configured to and / or provide means for receiving an indication that at least one battery cell of the first plurality of battery cells has been replaced by at least one new battery cell to form a second plurality of battery cells.

[0053] At 1115, method 1100 can generate an updated network profile based on a second plurality of signal characteristics associated with a second plurality of wireless signals exchanged between the second plurality of battery cells. For example, host controller 400 can be configured to and / or provide components for the following purpose: based on a second plurality of signal characteristics associated with a second plurality of wireless signals exchanged between the second plurality of battery cells, generate an updated network profile.

[0054] At 1120, method 1100 can compare the baseline network profile and the updated network profile. For example, host controller 400 can be configured to and / or provide means for comparing the baseline network profile and the updated network profile.

[0055] At 1125, method 1100 determines whether the difference between the baseline network profile and the updated network profile exceeds a threshold. For example, host controller 400 may be configured and / or provide means for determining whether the difference between the baseline network profile and the updated network profile exceeds a threshold.

[0056] At 1130, method 1100 identifies at least one misaligned battery cell of the second plurality of battery cells based on a difference exceeding a threshold. For example, host controller 400 may be configured to and / or provide means for identifying at least one misaligned battery cell of the second plurality of battery cells based on a difference exceeding the threshold.

[0057] Aspects of the present disclosure include a method for detecting one or more misplaced batteries, comprising: generating a baseline network profile based on a first plurality of signal characteristics associated with a first plurality of wireless signals exchanged between a first plurality of battery cells, receiving an indication that at least one battery cell of the first plurality of battery cells has been replaced by at least one new battery cell to form a second plurality of battery cells, generating an updated network profile based on a second plurality of signal characteristics associated with a second plurality of wireless signals exchanged between the second plurality of battery cells, comparing the baseline network profile and the updated network profile, determining whether a difference between the baseline network profile and the updated network profile exceeds a threshold, and identifying at least one misplaced battery cell of the second plurality of battery cells based on the difference exceeding the threshold.

[0058] Aspects of the present disclosure include the above-mentioned method, wherein generating a baseline network profile includes sending the first plurality of wireless signals from each battery cell of a first plurality of battery cells of the battery system to the remaining battery cells, and receiving the first plurality of wireless signals at each battery cell from the remaining battery cells of the first plurality of battery cells of the battery system, and generating an updated network profile includes sending the second plurality of wireless signals from each battery cell of a second plurality of battery cells of the battery system to the remaining battery cells, and receiving the second plurality of wireless signals at each battery cell from the remaining battery cells of the second plurality of battery cells of the battery system.

[0059] Aspects of the disclosure include any of the above methods, wherein generating a baseline network profile further comprises measuring a first plurality of strength profiles of the first plurality of wireless signals, and generating an updated network profile further comprises measuring a second plurality of strength profiles of the second plurality of wireless signals.

[0060] Aspects of the disclosure include any of the above methods, wherein the first plurality of strength profiles includes first received signal strength indicators (RSSIs) of the first plurality of wireless signals, and the second plurality of strength profiles includes second RSSIs of the second plurality of wireless signals.

[0061] Aspects of the present disclosure include any of the above methods, wherein transmitting the first plurality of wireless signals comprises transmitting the first plurality of wireless signals at a plurality of frequencies, and transmitting the second plurality of wireless signals comprises transmitting the second plurality of wireless signals at the plurality of frequencies.

[0062] Aspects of the disclosure include any of the above methods, wherein the plurality of frequencies spans a range from 2.4 gigahertz to 2.48 gigahertz.

[0063] Aspects of the present disclosure include any of the above methods, wherein determining whether the difference exceeds the threshold comprises: identifying a first signal strength associated with a first wireless signal of the first plurality of wireless signals, sending from at least one battery cell of the first plurality of battery cells to a receiving battery cell of the first plurality of battery cells, identifying a second signal strength associated with a second wireless signal of the second plurality of wireless signals, sending from at least one new battery cell of the second plurality of battery cells to the receiving battery cell, and determining that a signal strength difference between the first signal strength and the second signal strength is greater than a threshold signal strength.

[0064] Aspects of the present disclosure include any of the above methods, wherein identifying the at least one misplaced battery cell includes identifying the at least one new battery cell as the at least one misplaced battery cell.

[0065] Aspects of the present disclosure include any of the above methods, wherein the at least one battery cell comprises at least one battery cell module, and the at least one new battery cell comprises at least one new battery cell module.

[0066] Aspects of the present disclosure include any of the above methods, wherein identifying the at least one misaligned battery cell includes identifying at least two misaligned battery cells.

[0067] The principles and advantages discussed herein may be used in any device or system that may require confirmation of the location of a wireless node within an electric vehicle battery pack. It should be understood that not all objects or advantages mentioned herein may be achieved according to any particular implementation described herein. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that certain implementations may be configured to operate in a manner that achieves or optimizes one or a group of advantages taught herein without necessarily achieving other objects or advantages taught or suggested herein.

[0068] In an example implementation, any number of circuits configured to implement various aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented on a board of an associated electronic device. The board may be a general purpose circuit board that may accommodate various components of an electronic system within an electronic device, and may also provide connectors for other peripheral devices. More specifically, the board may provide an electrical connection through which other components of the system may communicate electrically. Any suitable processor (including a digital signal processor (DSP), a microprocessor, a supporting chipset, etc.), a computer-readable non-transient storage element, etc. may be appropriately coupled to the board according to specific configuration requirements, processing requirements, computer design, etc. Other components, such as external memory, additional sensors, audio / video display controllers, and peripherals, may be connected to the board as plug-in cards via cables, or may be integrated into the board itself. In various implementations, the functions described herein may be implemented in simulated form as software or firmware running within one or more configurable (e.g., programmable) elements, which are arranged in a structure that supports these functions. The software or firmware providing the simulation may be provided on a non-transient computer-readable storage medium that includes instructions that allow a processor to perform these functions.

[0069] In another example implementation, circuits configured to implement various aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented as stand-alone modules (e.g., devices having related components and circuits configured to perform specific applications or functions) or as plug-in modules inserted into dedicated hardware of an electronic device. Note that specific implementations of the present disclosure may be readily included in part or in whole in a system-on-chip (SOC) package. SOC represents an integrated circuit (IC) that integrates the components of a computer or other electronic system into a single chip. It may contain digital, analog, mixed signal, and often radio frequency functions: all of which can be provided on a single chip substrate. Other implementations may include a multi-chip module (MCM), in which multiple separate ICs are located within a single electronic package and are configured to interact closely with each other through the electronic package. In various other implementations, the digital filter may be implemented in one or more silicon cores in application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), FPGAs, and other semiconductor chips.

[0070] It must also be noted that all specifications, dimensions, and relationships (e.g., number of processors, logical operations, etc.) outlined herein are for exemplary and teaching purposes only. Such information may be changed significantly without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure or the scope of the appended claims. These specifications apply only to one non-limiting example, and therefore, they should be interpreted as such. In the foregoing description, example implementations have been described with reference to a specific arrangement of components. Various modifications and changes may be made to these implementations without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Therefore, the specification and drawings should be regarded as illustrative, not restrictive.

[0071] Note that through many of the examples provided herein, interactions may be described in terms of two, three, four or more electrical components. However, this is done for clarity and example only. It should be understood that the system may be distributed or integrated in any suitable manner. Along similar design alternatives, any of the components, modules, and elements shown in this figure may be combined in various possible configurations, all of which are clearly within the broad scope of the present disclosure. In some cases, it may be easier to describe one or more functions of a given flow set by referencing only a limited number of electrical components. It should be understood that the drawings and the circuits taught therein are easily expandable and can accommodate a large number of components and more complex / complex arrangements and configurations. Therefore, the examples provided should not limit the scope of the circuit or inhibit its broad teachings that may be applied to countless other architectures.

[0072] Please note that in the present disclosure, references to various features (e.g., elements, structures, modules, components, steps, operations, characteristics, etc.) included in “one embodiment,” “example embodiment,” “embodiment,” “another embodiment,” “some embodiments,” “various embodiments,” “other embodiments,” “alternative embodiments,” etc.) are intended to mean that any such features are included in one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, but may or may not necessarily be combined in the same embodiment.

[0073] Numerous other variations, substitutions, changes, and modifications may be ascertained by those skilled in the art, and the present disclosure is intended to encompass all such variations, substitutions, changes, modifications, and modifications that fall within the scope of the appended claims. Note that all optional features of any apparatus, device, or system described above may also be implemented with respect to a method or process of using or operating the apparatus, device, or system, and that details in examples provided for any apparatus, device, or system described herein may be used anywhere in the corresponding method or process, and vice versa.

Claims

1. A method for analyzing a battery system, comprising: generating a baseline network profile based on a first plurality of signal characteristics associated with a first plurality of wireless signals exchanged between the first plurality of battery cells; receiving an indication that at least one battery cell of the first plurality of battery cells has been replaced with at least one new battery cell to form a second plurality of battery cells; generating an updated network profile based on a second plurality of signal characteristics associated with a second plurality of wireless signals exchanged between the second plurality of battery cells; comparing the baseline network profile and the updated network profile; determining whether a difference between the baseline network profile and the updated network profile exceeds a threshold; and At least one misaligned battery cell of the second plurality of battery cells is identified based on the difference exceeding the threshold value.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein: Generating a baseline network profile includes: transmitting the first plurality of wireless signals from each battery cell of a first plurality of battery cells of the battery system to remaining battery cells; and receiving, at each battery cell, the first plurality of wireless signals from remaining battery cells of a first plurality of battery cells of the battery system; and Generating an updated network profile includes: transmitting the second plurality of wireless signals from each battery cell of a second plurality of battery cells of the battery system to the remaining battery cells; and The second plurality of wireless signals are received at each battery cell from remaining battery cells of a second plurality of battery cells of the battery system.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein: Generating a baseline network profile further comprises measuring a first plurality of strength profiles of the first plurality of wireless signals; and Generating an updated network profile further includes measuring a second plurality of strength profiles of the second plurality of wireless signals.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein: The first plurality of strength profiles includes first received signal strength indicators (RSSIs) for the first plurality of wireless signals; and The second plurality of strength profiles includes second RSSIs of the second plurality of wireless signals.

5. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein: Transmitting the first plurality of wireless signals comprises transmitting the first plurality of wireless signals at a plurality of frequencies; and Transmitting the second plurality of wireless signals includes transmitting the second plurality of wireless signals at the plurality of frequencies.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein the plurality of frequencies spans a range from 2.4 GHz to 2.48 GHz.

7. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein determining whether the difference exceeds the threshold comprises: identifying a first signal strength associated with a first wireless signal of the first plurality of wireless signals transmitted from at least one battery cell of the first plurality of battery cells to a receiving battery cell of the first plurality of battery cells; identifying a second signal strength associated with a second wireless signal of the second plurality of wireless signals transmitted from at least one new battery cell of the second plurality of battery cells to the receiving battery cell; and It is determined that a signal strength difference between the first signal strength and the second signal strength is greater than a threshold signal strength.

8. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein identifying the at least one misplaced battery cell comprises identifying the at least one new battery cell as the at least one misplaced battery cell.

9. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The at least one battery cell comprises at least one battery cell module; and The at least one new battery cell includes at least one new battery cell module. 10 . The method of claim 1 , wherein identifying the at least one misaligned battery cell comprises identifying at least two misaligned battery cells.

11. A battery system comprising: a first plurality of battery cells; and The controller is configured as: generating a baseline network profile based on a first plurality of signal characteristics associated with a first plurality of wireless signals exchanged between the first plurality of battery cells; receiving an indication that at least one battery cell of the first plurality of battery cells has been replaced with at least one new battery cell to form a second plurality of battery cells; generating an updated network profile based on a second plurality of signal characteristics associated with a second plurality of wireless signals exchanged between the second plurality of battery cells; comparing the baseline network profile and the updated network profile; determining whether a difference between the baseline network profile and the updated network profile exceeds a threshold; and At least one misaligned battery cell of the second plurality of battery cells is identified based on the difference exceeding a threshold value.

12. The battery system according to claim 11, wherein the controller is further configured to: generate the baseline network profile by: transmitting the first plurality of wireless signals from each battery cell of a first plurality of battery cells of the battery system to remaining battery cells; and receiving, at each battery cell, the first plurality of wireless signals from remaining battery cells of a first plurality of battery cells of the battery system; and Generate an updated network profile by following these steps: transmitting the second plurality of wireless signals from each battery cell of a second plurality of battery cells of the battery system to the remaining battery cells; and The second plurality of wireless signals are received at each battery cell from remaining battery cells of a second plurality of battery cells of the battery system.

13. The battery system according to claim 12, wherein the controller is further configured to: generating the baseline network profile by measuring a first plurality of strength profiles of the first plurality of wireless signals; and An updated network profile is generated by measuring a second plurality of strength profiles of the second plurality of wireless signals.

14. The battery system according to claim 13, wherein: The first plurality of strength profiles includes first received signal strength indicators (RSSIs) for the first plurality of wireless signals; and The second plurality of strength profiles includes second RSSIs of the second plurality of wireless signals.

15. The battery system according to any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the controller is further configured to: transmitting the first plurality of wireless signals by transmitting the first plurality of wireless signals at a plurality of frequencies; and The second plurality of wireless signals are transmitted by transmitting the second plurality of wireless signals at the plurality of frequencies.

16. The battery system of claim 15, wherein the plurality of frequencies spans a range from 2.4 GHz to 2.48 GHz.

17. The battery system according to any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein the controller is further configured to determine whether the difference exceeds the threshold by: identifying a first signal strength associated with a first wireless signal of the first plurality of wireless signals transmitted from at least one battery cell of the first plurality of battery cells to a receiving battery cell of the first plurality of battery cells; identifying a second signal strength associated with a second wireless signal of the second plurality of wireless signals transmitted from at least one new battery cell of the second plurality of battery cells to the receiving battery cell; and It is determined that a signal strength difference between the first signal strength and the second signal strength is greater than a threshold signal strength.

18. The battery system according to any one of claims 11 to 17, wherein the controller is further configured to identify the at least one misplaced battery cell by identifying the at least one new battery cell as the at least one misplaced battery cell.

19. The battery system according to any one of claims 11 to 18, wherein: The at least one battery cell comprises at least one battery cell module; and The at least one new battery cell includes at least one new battery cell module.

20. The battery system of any one of claims 11 to 19, wherein the controller is further configured to identify at least two misaligned battery cells.

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