Device and method for balancing battery pack and power supply equipment

Abstract

The invention relates to a device and method for balancing a battery pack and power supply equipment. The device for balancing the battery pack comprises a battery monitoring unit for detecting the voltage of each battery in the battery pack; the balancing unit comprises a circuit board, a balancing module and a busbar, the circuit board comprises a metal connecting area, the balancing module is arranged in the metal connecting area and is electrically connected to the metal connecting area, one end of the busbar is arranged in the metal connecting area and is electrically connected to the metal connecting area, and the other end of the busbar is electrically connected to the metal connecting area. The other end of the busbar is used for being electrically connected to a corresponding battery in the battery pack, the balancing unit is used for balancing the corresponding battery relative to the other battery, and the balancing module can transfer heat to the corresponding battery through the metal connecting area and the busbar; and the battery management unit is electrically connected to the battery monitoring unit and is electrically connected to the balancing unit. The device can balance the battery pack.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of new energy technologies, and particularly to a device and method for balancing a battery pack, and a power supply device. Background Art

[0002] The development of the new energy industry is in full swing, and the technologies in the battery field are constantly advancing. Currently, new energy vehicles and the like often use a battery pack for power supply. Many batteries are connected in parallel or in series within the battery pack, and then the power supply of the battery pack can be managed through a battery management system.

[0003] As the usage time increases, the performance of the batteries will decline to some extent, and there will be certain differences in the performance of different batteries within the battery pack. In order to ensure the power supply performance of the battery pack, it is necessary to balance different batteries.

[0004] During the operation of the battery pack, temperature is a factor affecting the performance of the battery pack. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Based on this, it is necessary to provide a device and method for balancing a battery pack, and a power supply device for at least one of the above problems.

[0006] On the one hand, this application provides a device for balancing a battery pack. The device includes: a battery monitoring unit for detecting the voltages of the individual batteries in the battery pack; at least one balancing unit, the balancing unit including a circuit board, a balancing module, and a busbar. The circuit board includes a metal connection area, the balancing module is disposed on the metal connection area and electrically connected to the metal connection area, one end of the busbar is disposed on the metal connection area and electrically connected to the metal connection area, and the other end of the busbar is used to be electrically connected to the corresponding battery in the battery pack. Among them, the balancing unit is used to balance the corresponding battery relative to another battery, and the balancing module can transfer heat to the corresponding battery through the metal connection area and the busbar; and a battery management unit, electrically connected to the battery monitoring unit and electrically connected to the balancing unit.

[0007] By providing the balancing unit, it is possible to balance the batteries in the battery pack under the cooperation of the battery monitoring unit and the battery management unit, avoid excessive differences between the batteries, and is beneficial to improving the service life of the battery pack; when the balancing unit is working, it heats up, and transfers the heat to the battery through the metal connection area and the busbar, which can relatively quickly cool down the balancing unit, ensure the stable operation of the balancing unit and the battery monitoring unit, the battery management unit, etc.; in addition, in a low-temperature environment, transferring heat to the battery also helps to protect the battery.

[0008] In some embodiments, the device for balancing a battery pack further includes a heat dissipation unit for dissipating heat from the corresponding battery; the battery management unit is electrically connected to the heat dissipation unit.

[0009] With such a setting, heat dissipation of the battery can be achieved, improving the working ability in normal or high-temperature environments; the temperature of the battery and the balancing unit can be controlled by dissipating heat from the battery; the structure is compact, and the occupied space during installation can be reduced.

[0010] In some embodiments, the busbar is used to connect to the ear of the corresponding battery, and the length of the busbar is configured such that the circuit board can be arranged side by side with respect to the ear; the metal connection area is located on one side of the circuit board close to the ear.

[0011] With such a setting, the layout of the device is compact, the distance between the balancing module and the battery is close, and heat can be transferred to the battery quickly and efficiently.

[0012] In some embodiments, the balancing unit further includes an insulating and heat-conducting part that covers the balancing module and the busbar; the busbar is a nickel sheet, the metal connection area is a copper-clad area, and the busbar is welded and fixed to the copper-clad area.

[0013] With such a setting, both the electrical conductivity and heat conductivity are ensured, which is beneficial to achieving the connection. The copper cladding on the circuit board is easy to implement, while the nickel sheet is suitable for welding, and a stable and reliable connection with good performance can be achieved on the premise of protecting the battery.

[0014] In some embodiments, the balancing module includes a balancing resistor; and / or the balancing module includes an isolation transformer, and the corresponding battery can charge another battery through the isolation transformer.

[0015] With such a setting, passive balancing and / or active balancing can be achieved, and different functions can be realized according to needs.

[0016] In some embodiments, the device for balancing a battery pack further includes a battery temperature sensor and a balancing temperature sensor. The balancing temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the balancing unit, the battery temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the corresponding battery, and the battery temperature sensor and the balancing temperature sensor are respectively electrically connected to the battery management unit.

[0017] With such a setting, it can work better according to different working conditions based on the temperature.

[0018] In a second aspect, the present application provides a power supply device, which includes: a battery pack; and the aforementioned device for balancing a battery pack.

[0019] The power supply device according to the embodiments of the present application has good working performance and a long service life.

[0020] In a third aspect, the present application provides a method for equalizing a battery pack. The method is based on a device for equalizing a battery pack, wherein the device includes: a battery monitoring unit for detecting the voltage of each battery in the battery pack; at least one equalizing unit, the equalizing unit including a circuit board, an equalizing module and a busbar. The circuit board includes a metal connection area, the equalizing module is disposed on the metal connection area and electrically connected to the metal connection area, one end of the busbar is disposed on the metal connection area and electrically connected to the metal connection area, and the other end of the busbar is for electrically connecting to a corresponding battery in the battery pack; and a battery management unit electrically connected to the battery monitoring unit and electrically connected to the equalizing unit. The method includes: in response to the voltage of a corresponding battery being higher than the voltage of another battery, controlling the equalizing unit to equalize the corresponding battery relative to the other battery, wherein the equalizing module transfers heat to the corresponding battery through the metal connection area and the busbar.

[0021] By controlling the operation of the equalizing module, the battery pack can be equalized and heat can also be transferred to the battery, avoiding the influence of low temperature on the battery performance. The control method is simple, which can improve the performance of the battery pack and extend the service life.

[0022] In some embodiments, the device further includes a battery temperature sensor, an equalizing temperature sensor and a heat dissipation unit respectively electrically connected to the battery management unit. The equalizing temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the equalizing unit, the battery temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the corresponding battery, the battery temperature sensor and the equalizing temperature sensor are respectively electrically connected to the battery management unit, and the heat dissipation unit is used to dissipate heat from the corresponding battery. Wherein, the method further includes at least one of the following steps: in response to the temperature of the corresponding battery being lower than a low temperature threshold, controlling the equalizing unit to operate so that the equalizing module transfers heat to the corresponding battery through the metal connection area and the busbar; in response to the temperature of the corresponding battery being higher than a heat dissipation threshold, controlling the heat dissipation unit to dissipate heat from the corresponding battery; based on a negative correlation algorithm between the temperature and power of the equalizing unit, controlling the power of the equalizing unit; and in response to the temperature of the equalizing unit being higher than a high temperature threshold, controlling the equalizing unit to stop operating.

[0023] With such a setting, the battery pack can be protected and the comprehensive performance of the battery pack can be improved.

[0024] In some embodiments, the equalizing module includes an equalizing resistor; or the equalizing module includes an isolation transformer and a switch, the switch is connected in series between the input side of the isolation transformer and the corresponding battery, and the battery management unit is electrically connected to the switch. The method further includes: in response to the voltage of the corresponding battery being higher than the voltage of another battery, by controlling the high-frequency on-off of the switch, enabling the corresponding battery to charge the other battery through the isolation transformer.

[0025] With such a setting, it can be easily controlled or the power supply capacity of the battery pack can be improved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] Figure 1 Schematic structural diagram of a device for balancing a battery pack according to one or more embodiments;

[0027] Figure 2 Schematic structural block diagram of a device for balancing a battery pack according to one or more embodiments;

[0028] Figure 3 Schematic circuit diagram of a balancing unit and a battery according to one or more embodiments;

[0029] Figure 4 Schematic structural diagram of a device for balancing a battery pack according to one or more embodiments;

[0030] Figure 5 Schematic top view of a device for balancing a battery pack according to one or more embodiments;

[0031] Figure 6 Schematic circuit diagram of a power supply device according to one or more embodiments;

[0032] Figure 7 Schematic flowchart of a method for balancing a battery pack according to one or more embodiments;

[0033] Figure 8 Signaling diagram of a method for balancing a battery pack according to one or more embodiments.

[0034] Description of reference numerals: 1, battery monitoring unit; 11, analog front-end chip; 2, balancing unit; 21, circuit board; 211, metal connection area; 212, circuit substrate; 22, balancing module; 221, switch; 222, balancing resistor; 223, isolation transformer; 23, bus bar; 24, insulating and heat-conducting part; 3, battery management unit; 31, processor; 32, communication module; 4, heat dissipation unit; 41, heat dissipation plate; 42, heat sink; 51, voltage sampling circuit; 52, battery temperature sensor; 53, balancing temperature sensor;

[0035] 100, device for balancing a battery pack; 200, battery pack; 201, tab; 202, core; 210, first battery; 220, second battery; 1000, power supply device; 1100, battery module; 1200, storage battery; 1300, balancing bus. Detailed implementation manners

[0036] To make the above objects, features, and advantages of the present application more apparent and understandable, the following provides a detailed description of the specific embodiments of the present application in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to facilitate a thorough understanding of the present application. However, the present application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar improvements without departing from the spirit of the present application. Therefore, the present application is not limited by the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0037] In the description of the present application, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationships indicated by terms such as "center", "longitudinal", "transverse", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "perpendicular", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc. are based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. These are only for the convenience of describing the present application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the present application.

[0038] In the present application, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the first feature being "on" or "under" the second feature may mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or the first and second features are indirectly in contact through an intermediate medium. Moreover, the first feature being "above", "over", and "on top of" the second feature may mean that the first feature is directly above or obliquely above the second feature, or merely indicates that the first feature has a higher horizontal height than the second feature. The first feature being "under", "beneath", and "underneath" the second feature may mean that the first feature is directly below or obliquely below the second feature, or merely indicates that the first feature has a lower horizontal height than the second feature.

[0039] In addition, terms such as "first", "second", "third", etc. are only used for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the quantity of the indicated technical features. Thus, features defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one such feature. Exemplarily, the first battery may also be referred to as the second battery, and the second battery may also be referred to as the first battery. In the description of the present application, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise specifically and clearly defined.

[0040] In this application, unless otherwise clearly specified and defined, terms such as "connected" and "coupled" shall be understood in a broad sense. For example, it may be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral body; it may be a flexible connection or a rigid connection along at least one direction; it may be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; if there is a transmission of electrical signals or data between the connected circuits, modules, units, etc., it shall be understood as an electrical connection, a communication connection, etc.; it may be directly connected, or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium, or directly connected while there is an intermediate medium, and it may also be the internal communication of two components or the interaction relationship between two components, unless otherwise clearly defined. Terms such as "installed", "set", and "fixed" can be understood in a broad sense as a connection. For those of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meanings of the above terms in this application can be understood according to specific circumstances.

[0041] As used in this application, the terms "layer" and "region" refer to a portion of material that includes a certain area and has a certain thickness. The layer can extend horizontally, vertically, and / or along a conical surface. The layer can be a region of a uniform or non-uniform continuous structure, and its thickness perpendicular to the extension direction may not be greater than the thickness of the continuous structure. The layer can include multiple layers, which can be multiple stacked layers or multiple discretely extending layers. The shapes of various regions and layers in the drawings, as well as their relative sizes and positional relationships, are merely exemplary and may actually deviate due to manufacturing tolerances or technical limitations, and the design can be adjusted according to actual needs.

[0042] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 1 shows a device for equalizing a battery pack in an embodiment of this application. The battery pack 200 may include a plurality of batteries. Figure 1 The battery shown is the first battery 210. Exemplarily, the first battery 210 has a higher voltage or capacity than other batteries, and the device 100 for equalizing the battery pack can be used to discharge it to equalize it with other batteries. The battery pack 200 may include many batteries. In order to better regulate the battery pack 200, the device 100 for equalizing the battery pack can be connected to each battery, and then the corresponding battery can be selected for equalization.

[0043] Combined Figure 2 As shown, in an exemplary embodiment, the device 100 for equalizing a battery pack includes a battery monitoring unit 1, an equalization unit 2, and a battery management unit 3.

[0044] The battery monitoring unit 1 is used to detect the voltages of the individual batteries in the battery pack 200. Exemplarily, the device 100 for equalizing the battery pack further includes a voltage sampling circuit 51. The battery monitoring unit 1 samples the voltages of the individual batteries through the voltage sampling circuit 51. The device 100 for equalizing the battery pack may further include other circuits that can monitor other parameters of the battery and up to the battery pack 200.

[0045] There may be at least one equalizing unit 2, and generally a plurality of equalizing units 2 are configured to correspond one-to-one to a plurality of batteries. The equalizing unit 2 includes a circuit board 21, an equalizing module 22, and a bus bar 23.

[0046] The plurality of circuit boards 21 of the plurality of equalizing units 2 may be provided separately, or at least some of the circuit boards 21 may be of an integral structure. The circuit board 21 may be a printed circuit board. The circuit board 21 includes a circuit substrate 212 and a printed circuit, and the printed circuit is disposed on the circuit substrate 212 and is used to connect components. The circuit board 21 may include a metal connection area 211, and the metal connection area 211 may be a part of the printed circuit. The metal connection area 211 may be an entire rectangular area.

[0047] The equalizing module 22 is disposed on the metal connection area 211 and is electrically connected to the metal connection area 211. Specifically, a part of the equalizing module 22 overlaps on the metal connection area 211, is both electrically connected to the metal connection area 211, and can transfer heat to the metal connection area 211; another part of the equalizing module 22 may be electrically connected to other circuit patterns (not shown) of the circuit board 21.

[0048] Exemplarily, the equalizing unit 2 may include a bus bar 23 to connect to one tab 201 of the battery, and then the equalizing unit 2 may include a wire connected to the other tab 201 of the corresponding battery. Refer to Figure 1 , the equalizing unit 2 is correspondingly arranged with the first battery 210. The equalizing unit 2 includes two bus bars 23, which are respectively connected to the two tabs 201 of the first battery 210. The circuit board 21 may include two metal connection areas 211. One end of the bus bar 23 is disposed on the metal connection area 211 and is electrically connected to the metal connection area 211, and the other end of the bus bar 23 is used to be electrically connected to the corresponding battery in the battery pack 200.

[0049] The battery management unit 3 is electrically connected to the battery monitoring unit 1 and is electrically connected to the equalizing unit 2. Exemplarily, refer to Figure 2The battery management unit 3 includes a processor 31 and a communication module 32. The processor 31 is electrically connected to the communication module 32. The processor 31 is capable of processing data and issuing instructions. The processor 31 can be a microprocessor (MCU) or a signal operation controller (SOC). The communication module 32 can communicate with other units, such as the battery monitoring unit 1. The battery management unit 3 can be indirectly electrically connected to the balancing unit 2 through the battery monitoring unit 1.

[0050] By providing the balancing unit 2, the batteries in the battery pack 200 can be balanced in cooperation with the battery monitoring unit 1 and the battery management unit 3, thereby avoiding excessive differences between the batteries and improving the service life of the battery pack 200. When the voltage of the first battery 210 is low, it can be unbalanced. For example, when the voltage of the first battery 210 is higher than the voltages of the other batteries, the balancing unit 2 can balance the corresponding first battery 210 relative to the other batteries or all the batteries.

[0051] The balancing module 22 heats up and generates heat during operation. The balancing module 22 can transfer heat to the corresponding battery through the metal connection area 211 and the busbar 23. This heat is transferred to the battery through the metal connection area 211 and the busbar 23, quickly cooling the balancing unit 2 and ensuring stable operation. When the balancing unit 2 is close to the battery monitoring unit 1 and the battery management unit 3, the heat dissipation of the balancing unit 2 also helps ensure the stable operation of the latter. Furthermore, in low-temperature environments, especially during startup, transferring heat to the battery also helps protect the battery.

[0052] Illustratively, the battery may be a lithium battery or a sodium battery.

[0053] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 3 The balancing module 22 can be a passive balancing module. The balancing module 22 may include a balancing resistor 222, which is connected in series between the two stages of the battery and uses the current in the circuit to generate heat to achieve energy consumption and balancing. In order to control the on and off of the circuit, the balancing module 22 may include a switch 221, and the battery management unit 3 can control the connection and disconnection of the switch 221. In order to improve the balancing effect, multiple balancing resistors 222 can be provided, and the heat generated by a single balancing resistor 222 can be within a few watts, for example, less than one watt. Multiple balancing resistors 222 discharge a battery at the same time, so the heat generated will also increase exponentially. When multiple batteries are discharged at the same time, the temperature of the balancing area rises faster.

[0054] The device 100 for balancing a battery pack may further include a heat dissipation unit 4. The heat dissipation unit 4 is used to dissipate heat from the corresponding battery. Exemplarily, the heat dissipation unit 4 includes a heat dissipation plate 41 and a radiator 42. The heat dissipation plate 41 can be attached to the core body 202 of the battery, for example, attached to the side wall of the core body 202 along the X-axis direction. The heat dissipation unit 4 has a compact structure and is separately arranged from the balancing unit 2, which can reduce the occupied space during installation. One heat dissipation plate 41 can dissipate heat from one or more batteries. The battery management unit 3 can be electrically connected to the radiator 42 of the heat dissipation unit 4. The radiator 42 can be a water pump, which is used to controllably deliver coolant to the heat dissipation plate 41 and can recycle the heated coolant to take away heat. Each heat dissipation plate 41 can be provided with a coolant interface on the side to communicate with the radiator 42. The heat dissipation unit 4 can dissipate heat from the battery, improving the working ability in normal temperature or high temperature environments; it can control the temperature of the battery and the balancing unit 2 by dissipating heat from the battery.

[0055] In some other embodiments, the battery can be cooled by air cooling or by heat radiation.

[0056] Reference Figure 1 , the bus bar 23 is used to connect to the tab 201 of the first battery 210. The bus bar 23 extends substantially along the XY plane, and the length direction can be along the X-axis direction. The material of the bus bar 23 can be a high thermal conductivity conductor. The bus bar 23 can be a metal bus bar, such as a nickel sheet. The nickel sheet not only ensures the electrical conductivity and thermal conductivity but also facilitates connection. The nickel sheet is suitable for welding, for example, it can be laser welded to the tab 201. The nickel sheet can be laser welded to the tab 201 by local spot welding or wire welding, avoiding irreversible damage to the active materials inside the battery caused by excessive high temperature, thereby improving the processing safety of the battery and ensuring electrical and thermal conductivity at the same time.

[0057] The metal connection area 211 can be a copper-clad area. The copper cladding on the circuit board 21 is easy to implement, and the rest of the circuit can also be copper wires or copper patterns. The bus bar 23 is welded and fixed to the copper-clad area. The circuit board 21 can carry the balancing module 22, the voltage sampling circuit 51, communication circuit components, connectors, etc., to achieve functions such as positioning, fixing, and conduction of the components. It can be considered that the circuit board 21 and the components on the board together constitute the control system for battery management.

[0058] The cross-sectional area of the bus bar 23 along the YZ plane can be configured according to the type of the battery to ensure the heat conduction effect. The thickness of the bus bar 23 can be less than 1 mm. The length of the bus bar 23 is configured such that the circuit board 21 can be arranged side by side with the tab 201. The short length of the bus bar 23 can improve the heat transfer speed.

[0059] The metal connection area 211 is located on one side of the circuit board 21 close to the tab. The equalization module 22 is close to the battery and can transfer heat to the battery quickly and efficiently. The area of the metal connection area 211 can be relatively large, for example, wider than the bus bar 23. Specifically, the thickness of the copper-clad area can be less than or equal to 500 μm to ensure the connection strength and improve the heat conduction effect. A high thermal conductivity material can be provided on the surface of the metal connection area 211, for example, with a thermal conductivity above 50 W / m·K.

[0060] Reference Figure 5 , the equalization unit 2 may further include an insulating and heat-conducting part 24. The insulating and heat-conducting part 24 covers the equalization module 22 and the bus bar 23. The insulating and heat-conducting part 24 can improve the heat conduction effect from the equalization module 22 to the bus bar 23; the insulating and heat-conducting part 24 may also cover a part of the battery. On the one hand, the insulating and heat-conducting part 24 increases the heat conduction path between the battery and the heat source. On the other hand, using a heat-conducting material with insulating effect can effectively block the electrical connection between the high voltage of the battery and other components, improving the high-voltage safety. The material of the insulating and heat-conducting part 24 can be an elastic heat-conducting material; optionally, the insulating and heat-conducting part 24 can be heat-conducting cotton or a heat-conducting pad. The insulating and heat-conducting part 24 can be heat-conducting paste. Applying an elastic heat-conducting material or heat-conducting paste can increase the contact area between the heat-conducting material and the heat source and the battery, ensuring the heat conduction effect.

[0061] The device 100 for equalizing a battery pack may further include a temperature sensing unit. Exemplarily, the device 100 for equalizing a battery pack includes a battery temperature sensor 52 and an equalization temperature sensor 53. The equalization temperature sensor 53 is used to detect the temperature of the equalization unit 2, and the battery temperature sensor 52 is used to detect the temperature of the corresponding battery. The battery temperature sensor 52 and the equalization temperature sensor 53 are respectively electrically connected to the battery management unit 3, for example, through the battery monitoring unit 1 and electrically connected to the battery management unit 3. The device 100 for equalizing a battery pack can work better according to the temperature for different working conditions.

[0062] The battery temperature sensor 52 can be arranged on the surface of the cell 202, or can also be arranged on the tab 201 or the bus bar 23. Exemplarily, the battery temperature sensor 52 is arranged at a position on the tab 201 where heat can be conducted quickly, which helps for quick detection.

[0063] Inside the equalization unit 2, there may be a region with the maximum temperature rise according to the layout position of components, current level, internal resistance of components, and heat generation amount, etc. The equalization temperature sensor 53 can be arranged in this region with the maximum temperature rise. For example, when there are multiple equalization resistors 222, it can be arranged at the central position. It can also be close to the device with the maximum temperature rise. For the arrangement of adhesive sensors, it can be directly arranged on the surface of the hottest part of the heat-generating device.

[0064] The battery monitoring unit 1 may include an analog front-end chip 11. The analog front-end chip 11 may be electrically connected to the communication module 32, and may also be electrically connected to a voltage sampling circuit 51, a battery temperature sensor 52, an equalization temperature sensor 53, and a switch 221 of the equalization module 22. The battery monitoring unit 1 may also be connected to other functional circuits. The communication module 32 of the battery management unit 3 may also be electrically connected to other controlled modules such as a radiator 42.

[0065] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the equalization module 22 may include an isolation transformer 223. The equalization module 22 may be an active equalization module. Exemplarily, the equalization module 22 may include both an equalization resistor 222 and an isolation transformer 223. When the equalization resistor 222 and the isolation transformer 223 are in series, a switch 221 may be provided. When they are in parallel, multiple switches 221 may be provided, and multiple switches 221 may also be provided to control different equalization resistors 222. The position of the switch 221 may be in the metal connection area and close to the bus bar 23. The device 100 for equalizing the battery pack can achieve passive equalization or / and active equalization, and can implement different functions according to needs.

[0066] Exemplarily, the first side of the isolation transformer 223 is connected in series with the battery through the switch 221. The switch 221 may be a high-frequency switch, which is controlled by the battery management unit 3 and can form a changing current, and then the second side of the isolation transformer 223 outputs a current. When the voltage or capacity of the first battery 210 is higher than that of other batteries in the battery pack 200, the first side of the isolation transformer 223 may be referred to as the input side, and the second side may be referred to as the output side. The high-frequency switch generates heat during operation, and an equalization temperature sensor 53 may be provided to monitor the temperature.

[0067] Reference Figure 6 , this application provides a power supply device 1000, which includes: a battery pack 200 and a device 100 for equalizing the battery pack. The battery pack 200 may include multiple batteries, or multiple battery modules 1100, or both the first battery 210 and the battery module 1100. The power supply device 1000 may further include a storage battery 1200 and an equalization bus 1300. The power supply device 1000 may further include a housing or a support structure member to restrict the position of the battery and install the device 100 for equalizing the battery pack and other components.

[0068] The device 100 for equalizing the battery pack may be the device 100 for equalizing the battery pack in the foregoing embodiment. The bus bar 23 is connected to the corresponding tab 201. Exemplarily, a heat dissipation plate 41 is provided at the corresponding battery. The power supply device 1000 according to the embodiment of this application has good working performance and a long service life.

[0069] When the balancing module 22 is an active balancing module, the corresponding battery, such as the first battery 210, can charge another battery, such as the second battery 220, through the isolation transformer 223, and can also charge the storage battery 1200 or the battery module 1100. The isolation transformers 223 of multiple batteries can all be connected to the balancing bus 1300 and can charge each other according to the voltage or capacity conditions.

[0070] In some embodiments, the active balancing module may include a capacitor for storing energy.

[0071] This application also provides a method for manufacturing a power supply device, which may include:

[0072] Step S1, manufacturing each component of the circuit board 21, the busbar 23, the battery monitoring unit 1, the battery management unit 3, and the balancing module 22 respectively;

[0073] Step S2, welding the battery monitoring unit 1, the battery management unit 3, and the balancing module 22 to the circuit board 21 by high-temperature soldering, and also welding the busbar 23 to the circuit board 21 by high-temperature soldering;

[0074] Step S3, constraining multiple batteries into a battery pack 200;

[0075] Step S4, positioning the busbar 23 at the corresponding battery and laser-welding the busbar 23 to the ear 201.

[0076] Steps S1 and S2 of this method can be used to manufacture the aforementioned device 100 for balancing a battery pack.

[0077] In the method for manufacturing a power supply device, Step S2 and Step S3 are relatively independent and can be carried out separately or simultaneously. Exemplarily, the heat dissipation unit 4 can be assembled to the battery pack 200 in Step S3 or Step S4. When the heat dissipation plate 41 is used as a structural member to constrain the battery, the heat dissipation plate 41 is assembled in Step S3.

[0078] Exemplarily, this application provides an electric device, such as a new energy vehicle or an electric drone, including a power supply device 1000.

[0079] Reference Figure 7 This application provides a method for balancing a battery pack. In an exemplary embodiment, the method S110 for balancing a battery pack can be based on the aforementioned device 100 for balancing a battery pack, the device in the aforementioned power supply device 1000, or the device in an electric device.

[0080] Specifically, the apparatus on which the method S110 for equalizing a battery pack is based includes: a battery monitoring unit 1 for detecting the voltages of individual batteries in the battery pack 200; at least one equalizing unit 2, where the equalizing unit 2 includes a circuit board 21, an equalizing module 22, and a bus bar 23. The circuit board 21 includes a metal connection area 211, the equalizing module 22 is disposed on the metal connection area 211 and electrically connected to the metal connection area 211, one end of the bus bar 23 is disposed on the metal connection area 211 and electrically connected to the metal connection area 211, and the other end of the bus bar 23 is for electrically connecting to the corresponding battery in the battery pack 200; and a battery management unit 3, electrically connected to the battery monitoring unit 1 and electrically connected to the equalizing unit 2.

[0081] Combined Figure 2 with Figure 8 as shown, the method S110 for equalizing a battery pack may include the following steps.

[0082] Step S111, in response to the voltage of a corresponding battery being higher than the voltage of another battery, controlling the equalizing unit 2 to equalize the corresponding battery relative to the other battery, wherein the equalizing module 22 transfers heat to the corresponding battery through the metal connection area 211 and the bus bar 23.

[0083] The method S110 for equalizing a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present application can equalize the battery pack 200 and transfer heat to the battery by controlling the operation of the equalizing module 22, avoiding the influence of low temperature on battery performance. The control method is simple, which can improve the performance of the battery pack 200 and extend its service life.

[0084] In the method S110 for equalizing a battery pack, it is also possible to control the equalizing unit 2 to stop working in response to the voltage of the first battery 210 dropping to the target voltage.

[0085] It is possible to control the equalizing unit 2 to operate in response to the capacity of the first battery 210 being greater than the capacities of other batteries.

[0086] The apparatus for executing the method S110 for equalizing a battery pack further includes a battery temperature sensor 52 and an equalizing temperature sensor 53, which are respectively electrically connected to the battery management unit 3. The equalizing temperature sensor 53 is used to detect the temperature of the equalizing unit 2, the battery temperature sensor 52 is used to detect the temperature of the corresponding battery, and the battery temperature sensor 52 and the equalizing temperature sensor 53 are respectively electrically connected to the battery management unit 3. The method S110 for equalizing a battery pack further includes the following steps.

[0087] Step S112, in response to the temperature of a corresponding battery being lower than the low temperature threshold, controlling the equalizing unit 2 to operate so that the equalizing module 22 transfers heat to the corresponding battery through the metal connection area 211 and the bus bar 23.

[0088] Step S114, based on the negative correlation algorithm between the temperature and power of the equalization unit 2, control the power of the equalization unit 2. This negative correlation algorithm means that the higher the measured value of the equalization temperature sensor 53, the smaller the power of the controlled equalization unit 2. The method S110 for equalizing the battery pack helps to protect the safety of the device.

[0089] Step S115, in response to the temperature of the equalization unit 2 being higher than the high temperature threshold, control the equalization unit 2 to stop working. The high temperature threshold is greater than the low temperature threshold.

[0090] When the equalization unit 2 is working, the temperature of the equalization area and the voltage of the battery can be monitored in real time.

[0091] The device for executing the method S110 for equalizing the battery pack further includes a heat dissipation unit 4. The method S110 for equalizing the battery pack further includes: Step S113, in response to the temperature of the corresponding battery being higher than the heat dissipation threshold, control the heat dissipation unit 4 to dissipate heat from the corresponding battery. The heat dissipation threshold can be greater than the low temperature threshold, and the heat dissipation threshold can be less than the high temperature threshold. The method S110 for equalizing the battery pack can protect the battery pack 200 and improve the comprehensive performance of the battery pack 200. A heat dissipation unit 4 may not be provided at the equalization unit 2 to save space.

[0092] Exemplarily, the equalization module 22 includes an equalization resistor 222, and the equalization resistor 222 can generate heat when energized. Step S112 may include: in response to the need for the battery pack 200 to supply power, control the equalization unit 2 to work to generate heat. The equalization module 22 is easy to control, and the method S110 for equalizing the battery pack is easy to execute.

[0093] According to the calculated power consumption that the first battery 210 needs to be equalized, the average power of the equalization module 22 can be controlled. For example, control the periodic on-off of the switch 221 to adjust the average power.

[0094] Exemplarily, the equalization module 22 includes an isolation transformer 223 and a switch 221. The switch 221 is connected in series between the input side of the isolation transformer 223 and the corresponding battery, and the battery management unit 3 is electrically connected to the switch 221. The method S110 for equalizing the battery pack further includes: Step S116, in response to the voltage of the corresponding battery being higher than the voltage of another battery, by controlling the high-frequency on-off of the switch 221, make the corresponding battery charge another battery through the isolation transformer 223.

[0095] According to the calculated power consumption that the first battery 210 needs to be equalized, the control of the power output can be achieved by controlling the output current. The method S110 for equalizing the battery pack can improve the power supply ability of the battery pack 200; realize rich functions.

[0096] The technical features of the above-disclosed embodiments can be combined arbitrarily. For the sake of brevity in description, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, it should be considered as within the scope described in this specification.

[0097] In the above-disclosed embodiments, unless otherwise clearly specified and limited, the execution order of each step is not restricted. For example, they can be executed in parallel or in different orders successively. The sub-steps of each step can also be executed alternately. Various forms of the process can be used, and steps can also be reordered, added, or deleted, as long as the desired results of the technical solutions provided in this application can be achieved. This application does not impose any restrictions here.

[0098] The above-disclosed embodiments only represent several implementation manners of this application. The description is relatively specific and detailed, but it should not be construed as a limitation on the patent protection scope of this application. It should be noted that for those of ordinary skill in the art, without departing from the concept of this application, several modifications and improvements can still be made, and these all fall within the patent protection scope required by this application. Therefore, the patent protection scope of this application shall be subject to the appended claims.

Claims

1. Device for equalizing a battery pack, characterized in that, Comprising: A battery monitoring unit for detecting the voltages of the individual batteries in the battery pack; At least one equalization unit, the equalization unit comprising a circuit board, an equalization module and a busbar, the circuit board comprising a metal connection area, the equalization module being disposed on and electrically connected to the metal connection area, one end of the busbar being disposed on and electrically connected to the metal connection area, and the other end of the busbar being adapted to be electrically connected to a corresponding battery in the battery pack, wherein the equalization unit is adapted to equalize the corresponding battery relative to another battery, and the equalization module is capable of transferring heat to the corresponding battery through the metal connection area and the busbar; And A battery management unit electrically connected to the battery monitoring unit and electrically connected to the equalization unit.

2. The device for equalizing a battery pack according to claim 1, wherein It further comprises a heat dissipation unit for dissipating heat from the corresponding battery; the battery management unit is electrically connected to the heat dissipation unit.

3. The device for equalizing a battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that, The busbar is adapted to be connected to the tab of the corresponding battery, and the length of the busbar is configured such that the circuit board can be arranged side by side with the tab; the metal connection area is located on the side of the circuit board close to the tab.

4. The device for equalizing a battery pack according to claim 3, characterized in that, The equalization unit further comprises an insulating heat conducting part covering the equalization module and the busbar; The busbar is a nickel sheet, the metal connection area is a copper-clad area, and the busbar is welded and fixed to the copper-clad area.

5. The device for equalizing a battery pack according to claim 1, characterized in that, The equalization module comprises an equalization resistor; or / and The equalization module comprises an isolation transformer, and the corresponding battery can charge the other battery through the isolation transformer.

6. The device for equalizing a battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, It further comprises a battery temperature sensor and an equalization temperature sensor, the equalization temperature sensor is used for detecting the temperature of the equalization unit, the battery temperature sensor is used for detecting the temperature of the corresponding battery, and the battery temperature sensor and the equalization temperature sensor are respectively electrically connected to the battery management unit.

7. Power supply device, characterized in that, Comprising: [[ID=*13]]A battery pack; And The device for equalizing a battery pack according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. A method for equalizing a battery pack, characterized in that, According to the device for equalizing the battery pack, wherein the device comprises: a battery monitoring unit for detecting the voltages of the individual batteries in the battery pack; at least one equalization unit, the equalization unit comprising a circuit board, an equalization module and a busbar, the circuit board comprising a metal connection area, the equalization module being disposed on and electrically connected to the metal connection area, one end of the busbar being disposed on and electrically connected to the metal connection area, and the other end of the busbar being adapted to be electrically connected to a corresponding battery in the battery pack; and a battery management unit electrically connected to the battery monitoring unit and electrically connected to the equalization unit; the method comprises: In response to the voltage of the corresponding battery being higher than the voltage of another battery, controlling the equalization unit to equalize the corresponding battery relative to the other battery, wherein the equalization module transfers heat to the corresponding battery through the metal connection area and the busbar.

9. The method for equalizing a battery pack according to claim 8, wherein, The device further includes a battery temperature sensor, an equalization temperature sensor, and a heat dissipation unit, which are respectively electrically connected to the battery management unit. The equalization temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the equalization unit, the battery temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the corresponding battery, the battery temperature sensor and the equalization temperature sensor are respectively electrically connected to the battery management unit, and the heat dissipation unit is used to dissipate heat from the corresponding battery; Wherein, the method further includes at least one of the following steps: In response to the temperature of the corresponding battery being lower than the low temperature threshold, controlling the equalization unit to operate so that the equalization module transfers heat to the corresponding battery through the metal connection area and the busbar; In response to the temperature of the corresponding battery being higher than the heat dissipation threshold, controlling the heat dissipation unit to dissipate heat from the corresponding battery; Controlling the power of the equalization unit based on the negative correlation algorithm between the temperature and power of the equalization unit; and In response to the temperature of the equalization unit being higher than the high temperature threshold, controlling the equalization unit to stop operating.

10. The method for equalizing a battery pack according to claim 9, wherein the equalization module includes an equalization resistor; or the equalization module includes an isolation transformer and a switch, the switch is connected in series between the input side of the isolation transformer and the corresponding battery, and the battery management unit is electrically connected to the switch; the method further includes: in response to the voltage of the corresponding battery being higher than the voltage of another battery, controlling the high-frequency on / off of the switch so that the corresponding battery charges the other battery through the isolation transformer.

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