Intermittent high-power power supply based on battery

Abstract

A battery-based power supply for powering intermittent workloads is disclosed that is optimized to improve low temperature performance and extend battery life. The power supply includes: one or more batteries; a buck converter configured to be connected in series with the battery and output a voltage VOUT less than the battery voltage V1; a current limiter connected in series with the buck converter and configured to limit an inrush current from the battery in a current limiting mode and substantially provide a short circuit in a non-current limiting mode; a capacitive accumulator connected in series with the current limiter for providing a voltage V2 to the load and configured to: when the current limiter is switched to the current limiting mode, charge to a voltage VI CL less than VOUT; when the current limiter is switched to the non-current limiting mode, charging is performed to near VOUT.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. patent application No. 18 / 166,519, filed on February 9, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and method for powering an electronic device using a battery. Background Art

[0004] Many different types of electronic devices may have specific requirements for their power sources. Lithium batteries and lithium-ion batteries are commonly used in the power sources of these devices. Traditional batteries based on lithium chemistry generally have a flat discharge curve and very low internal resistance. This makes them advantageous when used in applications that require relatively high power, such as cellular modems, radio frequency (RF) transceivers, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, compared to batteries with non-flat discharge curves and higher internal resistance, such as alkaline batteries and other non-lithium batteries. Therefore, the latter type of battery may have more limited application in electronic devices. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example and not limitation, the various embodiments discussed in this document.

[0006] For simplicity and clarity of illustration, the elements shown in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements to provide a clearer presentation. In addition, reference numerals may be repeated in the drawings to indicate corresponding or similar elements. References to previously shown elements are implicit without further identification of the figure or description in which they appear. The number of elements shown in the drawings should not be construed as limiting and is for illustrative purposes only. The drawings are listed below.

[0007] Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a functional schematic diagram of an exemplary battery power supply (BPS) having a buck converter for use with intermittently operating devices according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0008] Figure 2 To demonstrate an embodiment of the present invention Figure 1 Graph of an exemplary linear characteristic of the ground current of a voltage regulator.

[0009] Figure 3 is an exemplary flow chart according to an embodiment of the present invention, which describes Figure 1 A method of operating a BPS in the present invention when powering an intermittently operating (switching) device, optionally when switching a load between an unpowered state (optionally a low power state) and a powered state.

[0010] Figure 4 According to one embodiment of the present invention Figure 1 BPS (optionally in accordance with Figure 3 An exemplary charging curve diagram of the capacitor energy storage voltage during operation of the method shown in the flowchart.

[0011] Figure 5 1 is a simplified circuit diagram of an exemplary system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Optionally, the exemplary system is an IoT system or other types of high-power intermittent working systems, including a BPS.

[0012] Figure 6 According to one embodiment of the present invention Figure 5 Actual real-time oscilloscope measurement of the capacitor energy storage voltage in the BPS.

[0013] Figure 7 To demonstrate an embodiment of the present invention Figure 1 During the operation of the BPS from the initial state to the load energization (optionally in accordance with Figure 3 A graph of exemplary characteristics of battery current over time during operation of the method shown in the flowchart.

[0014] Figure 8 FIG. 5 is a graph of an exemplary battery current profile having two time-spaced controlled current pulses generated by a BPS for use with intermittently operating devices in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 9 FIG. 1 is a functional diagram of an exemplary BPS having a step-up / step-down converter for use with intermittently operating devices according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 10 is an exemplary flow chart according to an embodiment of the present invention, which describes Figure 9 The control unit algorithm used by the BPS in FIG. 1 when powering intermittently operating (switching) equipment (optionally when switching the load between an unpowered state and a powered state).

[0017] Figure 11 FIG. 1 is a functional diagram of an exemplary battery power supply (BPS) configured for use with an intermittently operating device having a low power mode (sleep mode) according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 12 is an exemplary flow chart according to an embodiment of the present invention, which describes Figure 11The control unit algorithm used by the BPS in the embodiment of the present invention when powering intermittently working (switching) equipment (optionally when switching the load between a low power state (sleep mode) and a power state). DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] Applicants recognize that the use of lithium batteries and lithium-ion batteries in IoT devices and other relatively high power consumption devices may have some disadvantages because these types of batteries are hazardous, have limited transportation and use, and are expensive. Therefore, Applicants recognize the need for an apparatus and method for powering a wide range of IoT devices and other relatively high power consumption devices without compromising their key operating characteristics, using batteries such as alkaline batteries and other widely available batteries that do not have the disadvantages of lithium chemistry. In certain embodiments, such an apparatus (or hereinafter referred to as a "battery power supply") can be applicable to any type of "cycled on / off" or "start-stop" device, or any device that has different load current profiles in different states. Examples of such devices include cellular 2G / 3G / 4G / 5G modems, RF transceivers, sensors, etc.

[0020] One aspect of the present invention relates to a battery power supply (BPS) comprising an electronic circuit system configured to connect to one or more batteries (hereinafter referred to as "batteries") having a non-flat discharge curve and high internal resistance (optionally non-linear) and to replicate the power output characteristics of a battery (i.e., a lithium battery) having a flat discharge curve and low internal resistance. The electronic circuit system may include analog components, digital components, and control logic configured to adjust the operating parameters of the BPS to maintain its stability over a wide temperature range (optionally when connected to an intermittent load). The electronic circuit system may include a buck converter, a pre-charge circuit system including a current limiter, a storage capacitor with high capacitance and low output impedance, a voltage regulator, and a control unit (controller) for controlling the electronic circuit system to provide different consumption currents for the intermittent load. Optionally, the battery and / or the load may be included in the BPS. Optionally, the load may include intermittently operating IoT devices and other relatively high-power switching loads. In some examples, the (intermittent) load may include a capacitor.

[0021] Embodiments relate to a battery-based power supply for powering intermittent workloads, optimized to improve low-temperature performance and extend battery life. The power supply includes: one or more batteries; a buck converter configured to be connected in series with the battery and to output a voltage VOUT that is less than the battery voltage V1; a current limiter connected in series with the buck converter and configured to limit inrush current from the battery in a current limiting mode and to provide a substantial short circuit in a non-current limiting mode; a capacitive energy reservoir connected in series with the current limiter to provide a voltage V2 to the load and configured to charge to a voltage V1CL that is less than V1CL when the current limiter switches to a current limiting mode and to charge to a voltage close to V1CL when the current limiter switches to a non-current limiting mode; and a control unit that measures the voltage, controls the operation of the buck converter and the current limiter, and activates the load. In some examples, the duration of charging to voltage V1CL automatically compensates for temperature variations and other changes in the device. The use of the current limiter enables the device to operate at low temperatures. Partial use of current limiters, use of intermittent current drawn from the battery, relaxation of the battery before activating the load, and relaxation periods between battery uses can help extend battery life.

[0022] In certain embodiments, the electronic circuit system can include two operating states. In the first state, the load can be in an unpowered mode, optionally a low-power mode (hereinafter also referred to as the "unpowered mode" or "unpowered state"). In the second state, the load is in a relatively high-power mode (hereinafter also referred to as the "powered mode" or "powered state"). In the first state, the buck converter can initially be set to a shutdown mode associated with its disabled state, and the current limiter can be set to a current-limiting state by the controller. In this first state, the energy storage capacitor can be substantially disconnected from the battery. When the load needs to switch to the powered mode, the controller can first set the buck converter to an on mode associated with its enabled state, thereby applying an initial voltage to the energy storage capacitor via the current limiter to increase its charge. After monitoring the voltage across the capacitor and allowing the first charging cycle to proceed, the controller can disconnect the current limiter (i.e., short-circuit or shunt the circuit with a resistance less than the circuit resistance) to further increase the voltage across the energy storage capacitor and initiate a second charging cycle. The second charging cycle can be followed by a stabilization period. After monitoring the voltage increase and the aforementioned optional stabilization period, the controller can then turn on the load in supply mode to draw high power current from the charged energy storage capacitor.

[0023] In certain embodiments, the electronic circuit system can provide protection for the battery from large current pulses and large inrush currents, and prevent battery drain by eliminating parasitic self-discharge currents from the storage capacitor when the load is turned off. The electronic circuit system can provide a first current surge of limited (controlled) value during load turn-on, followed by a gradual reduction in current as the storage capacitor is first charged. The electronic circuit system can then provide a second, short current surge of limited (controlled) value when the current limit is turned off, followed by a relatively long stabilization (relaxation) period during which the discharge current is small and stable (optionally in the milliampere range), and then provide full current when the load is powered on.

[0024] As will be appreciated, the BPS of the present invention has several advantageous properties, in addition to its use in powering devices typically utilizing batteries with flat discharge curves and low internal resistance. The specific discharge curve, formed by a first controlled surge of a controlled value (reduced current) and a second, shorter controlled surge of a controlled value (followed by a stabilization phase of low discharge current), is well-suited to the specific ion activity underlying alkaline (and other) battery chemistries. Furthermore, the electronic circuitry can allow for estimation of the battery's state of health based on its internal resistance. For example, a double-pulse test can be employed, taking as input the battery voltage and current (calculated based on the circuitry implementation and available voltage measurement data) at the end of a first charge cycle and a second charge cycle after stabilization (relaxation). Furthermore, the electronic circuitry can be used as an in-circuit capacitance tester for testing energy storage capacitors. Furthermore, it can adapt to environmental conditions, such as temperature variations. It should be noted that aluminum electrolytic capacitors with a low-temperature rating of -55°C typically experience a 10% to 20% capacitance loss when operated at -40°C. As the temperature decreases, the pre-charge current required for the energy storage capacitor decreases, so the stress on the battery may be reduced despite the higher internal resistance.

[0025] In some embodiments, the time series data obtained by the controller periodically measuring the voltage of the energy storage capacitor can be stored (for example, in the controller) and used in the production test phase (to estimate the actual capacity of the energy storage capacitor, which can be used as an indicator of assembly quality) or to check its actual condition during operation (especially useful or important for devices whose service life may reach or exceed that of electrolytic capacitors). This time series data can be used locally by the device or transmitted from the device via a communication channel to a remote service or application. It should be noted that if the capacitance is variable, this data can be used to adjust the capacitance accordingly.

[0026] In certain embodiments, the BPS of the present invention can be integrated with a device, with the battery built into the BPS, or the battery can be replaced separately. Alternatively, the BPS can be provided as a kit that can be adapted to existing devices (e.g., by retrofitting). It should be noted that while the BPS of the present invention is described herein as being operable with batteries having a non-flat discharge curve and high internal resistance (optionally non-linear), those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the BPS can also be used with batteries having a flat discharge curve (e.g., lithium batteries and lithium-ion batteries), and therefore its application is not limited to batteries with a non-flat discharge curve.

[0027] Reference Figure 1 , which is a functional schematic diagram of an exemplary battery power supply (BPS) 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. BPS 100 is configured to provide DC power to a load (LOAD) 114 from a battery (BAT) 102 having a non-flat discharge curve and high internal resistance (typically associated with alkaline batteries and other types of non-lithium battery chemistries, or may have other discharge characteristics and / or other internal resistance characteristics, such as lithium batteries or lithium-ion batteries and other types of batteries). Alternatively, LOAD 114 may be an IoT device or other relatively high-power device typically powered by a lithium battery. The operating mode of LOAD 114 may include periodic switching (optionally in on / off states) and / or varying load currents in different states. BPS 100 includes a buck converter (VD) 104, a voltage regulator (VR) 106, a current limiter (CL) 108, a capacitor storage (CT) 110, and a control unit (CU) 112. Optionally, BAT 102 and / or LOAD 114 may be included in BPS 100.

[0028] BAT 102 may include multiple batteries connected in series so that the output voltage V1 of the battery pack is generally greater than the voltage V2 required by LOAD 114. As previously described, BAT 102 may include batteries with non-flat discharge curves and relatively high internal resistance (e.g., alkaline batteries), as well as batteries with other discharge curves and / or other internal resistances (e.g., lithium metal batteries, lithium-ion batteries, or nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries). Alternatively, BAT 102 may be a single battery.

[0029] VDC 104 may include a step-down converter (eg, a buck converter) that steps down voltage V1 to voltage VOUT and is configured to be turned on (enabled) and off (disabled) by CU 112, as described below. Voltage VOUT may be less than V1 and greater than or equal to V2.

[0030] VR 106 may include a low current voltage regulator that can output a constant voltage V3 as a power supply for CU 112, optionally, voltage V3 is less than or equal to V2. During the "sleep" period of CU 112, the output current of VR 106 may be less than or equal to 10 microamperes, for example. VR 106 may include a low dropout linear regulator with a wide input voltage range and low ground current, and the ground current may be linearly related to the load current (optionally in the microcurrent region). For exemplary purposes, Figure 2 Graph 150 illustrates an exemplary linear characteristic of ground current in VR 106, although it should be noted that graph 150 may vary depending on the type of voltage regulator used. Graph 150 plots ground current in microamperes on Y-axis 152 and load current in microamperes on X-axis 154. Linear dependence is indicated by line 156, reflecting that ground current increases with increasing load current. It should be noted that, alternatively, VR 106 may include the use of a switching regulator.

[0031] CL 108 may include any type of current limiting circuitry, which may be controlled by CU 112 to optionally set the current limit to a predetermined level or to disconnect the current limit (short-circuit condition, such that the current flowing through CL 108 is substantially unrestricted). Optionally, the predetermined current limit level may be determined based on the capacity of the capacitor reservoir, the specific battery chemistry used, and / or implementation, and may be in the tens or hundreds of milliamperes range. CT 110 may be any type of capacitor (optionally a plurality of capacitors connected in parallel) with low equivalent series resistance (ESR) and a voltage rating greater than or equal to V2, and having sufficient capacitance to supply the relatively large, short-duration current draw surges required by LOAD 114. As previously mentioned, LOAD 114 may be an IoT device or other relatively high-power device, typically powered by (but not limited to) a lithium battery, such as any cellular 2G / 3G / 4G / 5G or other modem, RF transceiver, sensor, etc.

[0032] It should be noted that the selection of CT 110 can be determined by the specific consumption profile of LOAD 114, while the capacity of capacitor CT 110 can be based on the characteristics of BAT 102. When VDC 104 is on and CT 110 is fully discharged, CL 108 can provide inrush current protection for BAT 102. Furthermore, when VDC 104 is off, CL 108 can protect BAT 102 from the self-discharge current of CT 110. Therefore, CTs 110 with capacities ranging from thousands of microfarads to several farads and self-discharge currents in the milliampere range or above can be used.

[0033] CU 112 can be part of any device that uses the BPS100 power supply system, or can be a specific part of BPS100. CU 112 may include any processor-based device and may include any combination of hardware, software, and firmware. CU 112 can measure the voltage V1 of BAT 102 via monitoring signal 122 and measure the voltage VCT of CT 110 via monitoring signal 124. CU 112 can control the operation (including enabling) of VDC 104 via control signal 116 and can further control the operation of CL 108 via control signal 118 to set the current limiter to a predetermined current limit level or to no limit at all. In addition, CU 112 can control the operation of LOAD 114 via control signal 120 to turn the load on and off. It should be noted that monitoring signals 122 and 124 and control signals 116, 118, and 120 can be implemented by any one or a combination of analog signals and / or digital signals, including appropriate circuit systems (including transmission buses, if necessary).

[0034] CU 112 can implement the necessary feedback to maintain BPS operation despite temperature variations and component tolerance variations. Furthermore, CU 112 can adjust operating parameters based on the type and requirements of LOAD 114 and / or the battery charge level. CU 112 can measure the voltage VCT of CT 110 using monitoring signal 124 and, accordingly, control the operation of VDC 104 and CL 108 using control signal 116 and control signal 118, respectively. CU 112 can measure the voltage V1 of BAT 102 using monitoring signal 122 and the voltage VCT of CT 110 using monitoring signal 124, while controlling the operation of CL 108 using control signal 118, thereby determining the battery charge level by indirectly measuring the internal resistance of the battery.

[0035] Reference Figure 3 , which is an exemplary flow chart 300 according to one embodiment of the present invention, describes the operation method of the BPS when supplying power to intermittent working (switching) equipment. Figure 1 The flowchart 300 is described with reference to the BPS 100 and its components.

[0036] At 302 , the BPS 100 may be in an initial state. The VDC 104 may be off (disabled), the CL 108 may be in current limit mode (at a predetermined current limit level), the CT 110 may be discharged, the VR 106 may be in an always-on state to continuously operate and power the CU 112, and the LOAD 114 may be in an unpowered state.

[0037] At 304, the CU 112 can measure the voltage V1 by monitoring the signal 122. The CU 112 can be configured to measure the voltage V1 at a predetermined time interval or continuously.

[0038] At 306, the CU 112 can determine whether the measured voltage V1 exceeds the minimum input voltage VD Cin required by the VDC 104 (i.e., whether the battery voltage is sufficient to start the buck converter under light load). If not, return to step 302. It should be noted that as part of returning to step 302, troubleshooting can be performed to determine whether the BAT 102 may be faulty (or depleted).

[0039] At 308, in response to determining that the voltage V1 > VD Cin, the CU 112 can turn on the VDC 104 via the control signal 116, and the control signal 116 can act as an enabling signal. The input signal is enabled early enough before the expected operation of the LOAD 114 such that the CT 110 can be fully charged to power the LOAD 114. The VDC 104 can output the voltage VOUT applied to the CL 108. It should be noted that starting from step 302, the CL 108 can be in the current limit mode and, together with the actual capacity of the CT 110, can determine the time constant (delay) required to charge the capacitive energy storage to the voltage VCT = VICL. It should also be noted that there can be a threshold voltage value VICL, which is determined at step 312 by the BPS operation method and can be less than V OUT . This will be further described below in conjunction with Figure 4 [[ID=!0]]the exemplary charging curve of the CT 110, where the V ICL voltage level is referred to as the dashed line 410. Based on the above, it can be understood that the following voltage relationships can exist in the BPS: V1 > VOUT > VICL.

[0040] At 310, after activating the VDC 104, the CU 112 can periodically or continuously repeat the measurement of the voltage VCT of the CT 110. The measurement can be performed via the monitoring signal 124 and can be carried out in conjunction with step 308.

[0041] At 312, the CU 112 can compare each measured value of the voltage VCT with the voltage VICL. VICL can be the threshold voltage value expected to be reached when the current limiter CL 108 is enabled. VICL can be less than V OUT . If VCT < VICL, the threshold voltage has not been reached, go to the optional 314, or directly to 316. If VCT ≥ VICL, go to 318.

[0042] At the optional 314, the CU 112 can store each measured value of the voltage VCT for use in a subsequent production test phase, as further described below.

[0043] At 316, CU 112 may implement a delay that is less than the delay introduced by the RC combination of the resistance of CL 108 and CT 110. The length of the delay may be determined based on the time constants of CL 108 and CT 110 and the tolerance for detecting when the voltage across CT 110 is equal to the threshold value VICL. For example, if a 0.1V tolerance is allowed when comparing VCT ≥ VICL, and the minimum time to charge CT 110 by 0.1V is Tmin based on the given time constants of CL 108 and CT 110, the specified delay may be set to Tmin.

[0044] At 318 , in response to CU 112 measuring VCT ≥ VIC via the monitoring signal, the control unit may enable CL 108 (removing current limiting and entering a short-circuit state) via control signal 118 . Voltage VCT may increase and approach VOUT (although theoretically a short circuit, it is not equal to VOUT due to the finite resistance of CL 108 in any possible implementation). It should be noted that CT 110 may not be fully charged at this time, and the inrush current generated by the short-circuit of CL 108 may provide additional charging.

[0045] At 320, in response to the expected VCT jump after enabling CL 108 at 318, CU 112 may implement a delay to allow stabilization of VCT and BAT 102 ions. In practical implementations, the value of this stabilization delay may be tens of milliseconds and may be optimized based on experiments using batteries with desired chemistries.

[0046] At 322, after an optional stabilization delay, control unit CU 112 may activate control signal 120 to activate (enable, turn on) LOAD 114. LOAD 114, with V2 applied to its input, may draw the necessary current required for operation from the charged capacitor tank CT 110 and the VDC 104 output.

[0047] At 324, the LOAD 114 may remain activated (enabled, turned on) until the CU 112 deactivates (disables, turns off) the LOAD 114 via the control line 120. Alternatively, the CU 112 may wait for and receive an external command (signal) that causes the CU 112 to deactivate the LOAD 114. When the LOAD 114 is operating, it is powered by the CT 110. While waiting for the external command (signal) to deactivate the load, the CU 112 may maintain the state of the control output.

[0048] At 326 , the BPS may return to step 302 to reinitialize the states of the BPS components.

[0049] As shown, flowchart 300 includes steps 302 to 326. It should be noted that steps 302 to 326 may be repeated each time it is necessary to switch the operation of LOAD 114 between the unpowered state and the powered state. It should also be noted that those skilled in the art may practice the teachings of the method described in flowchart 300 using more or fewer steps and / or a different order of steps.

[0050] It should be noted that during operation of the BPS 100, the BAT 102 may experience a variety of changing conditions. Initially, when the CT 110 begins charging, the BAT 102 may first experience a relatively sharp current surge, the magnitude of which may be determined by the resistance of the CL 108, the actual capacitance of the CT 110, the remaining charge in the capacitive energy reservoir 110 (if the capacitor is not fully discharged), and the ratio of V1 to VOUT. While the CL 108 is in current limiting mode, the BAT 102 may experience a high discharge current that decreases with each charge cycle. When the CL 108 is disconnected (removing current limiting), the BAT 102 may experience a second sharp current surge. After this surge, a battery stabilization (relaxation) period may be initiated. During this period, the battery discharge current may be small, but greater than the current in step 302 , as it may be equal to the sum of the CU 112 operating current, the parasitic current drawn by the LOAD 114 in the off state, the self-discharge current of the CT 110 , the current drawn by the VR 106 in the on state, and the current drawn by the VDC 104 .

[0051] In certain embodiments, for the BPS 100, shutting off the power to the LOAD 114 can be initiated by transferring control to a subroutine that can be executed by the CU 112. The CU 112 can then shut off the LOAD 114 and disable the VDC 104 (without delay or with a necessary delay if required by the LOAD 114). As a result, the capacitor storage device CT 110 can be disconnected from the battery BAT 102, and its leakage current will not cause the battery BAT 102 to discharge.

[0052] Reference Figure 4, which is a graph 400 of an exemplary charging curve for the CT 110 according to one embodiment of the present invention (optionally when operating in accordance with the method 300). Graph 400 plots VCT on the y-axis 402 and T (time in milliseconds) on the x-axis 404. As shown, the CT 110 charging curve 406 may rise exponentially from VCT = 0 at T = T0 (VDC 104 is on and outputting VOUT) to VCT = VICL 410 at T = Ton 412, with a time constant determined by the resistance of CL 108 and the capacitance of CT 110. At Ton 412, due to the removal of the current limit, VCT increases to approach VOUT at time T = Tout 414, as indicated by Vinc 416, and at T = Tout, VCT = VICL 418.

[0053] Reference Figure 5 , which is a simplified circuit diagram of an exemplary system 500 according to one embodiment of the present invention, which exemplary system 500 is optionally an IoT system or other type of relatively high power consumption intermittent working system, including BPS501. In addition, the system 500 may include a multi-cell battery BT1 502 with non-flat discharge characteristics and high internal resistance and a connected load U2 514. Alternatively, BT1 502 may include one or more batteries with flat discharge curve characteristics, such as but not limited to lithium batteries or lithium-ion batteries. Optionally, BPS 501, BT1 502 and U2 514 may be functionally connected. Figure 1 The BPS 100, BAT 102 and LOAD 114 in are similar.

[0054] U1 504 with feedback resistors R1 505 and R2 503 can be any typical high speed buck DC / DC converter that implements VDC 104 (non-essential implementation details are omitted). The analog feedback circuit formed by R1 505 and R2 503 can be used to evaluate the performance of U1 504 by measuring the FB voltage of U1 periodically or in real time (based on a comparator) via controller U3 512. During normal operation of U1 504, the FB voltage can be equal to the voltage of U1's internal reference voltage source known from the manufacturer's documentation, which can be used to check the operating status of U1. U1 can function not only as a buck converter, but also as a regulator controlled by the Buck_EN signal ( Figure 1 The control signal 116 in controls the enabled / disabled state of the controlled switch.

[0055] U4 506 can achieve Figure 1 VR 106 in the , and may include LDO (Low Dropout Regulator). SW1 508 and RCL509 can achieve Figure 1CL 108 in. SW1 508 can be implemented using any electronically controlled switch (e.g., P-MOSFET) with low resistance in the off state. SW1 508 can be controlled by the CL_SW signal ( Figure 1 RCL 509 can be a current limiting resistor. Figure 1 When combined with CT 110 in FIG1 , this current limiting circuit can form a capacitor pre-charge system, where U1 and SW1 508 can form a two-switch series combination. It should be noted that RCL 509 can be used together with feedback resistors R1 505 and R2 503 to act as a "bleeder" circuit for CET 510 when U1 is disabled.

[0056] U2 514 can be any possible intermittently active load that has an EN (enable) control signal input that turns it on or off (corresponding to Figure 1 LOAD 114 in FIG. 1 ). U3 512 may be any controller suitable for controlling the operation of BPS 501, as described herein below, and as previously described in conjunction with Figure 1 The operation of BPS100 and CU 112 is described in detail.

[0057] It should be noted that Vin and Vout in U1 504 correspond to Figure 1 In addition, I and Q in U4 504 correspond to Figure 1 In addition, ADC_CET corresponds to V1 and V3. Figure 1 VCT in, and Vpow corresponds to Figure 1 V2 in.

[0058] The following is a description of exemplary operation of the system 500 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 Some or all of the steps shown in flowchart 300. Note that as depicted in flowchart 300, U1 504 is in a disabled state, SW1 508 is open (RCL 509 provides current limiting), and U4 506 is enabled (continuously on).

[0059] To turn on U2 514, controller U3 first enables U1 504. After successfully enabling U1 504, U3 ADC_CET provides periodic measurements (or sampling) of the voltage VCT across capacitor reservoir CET 510. Since SW1 is open, capacitor reservoir CET 510 charges through resistor RCL 509. When VCT > VICL, U3 CL_SW closes SW1 508, shorting RCL 509 and raising voltage VCT toward VOUT. After a stabilization delay, U3 512 activates LOAD_EN to enable U2 514.

[0060] Reference Figure 6 , which shows an actual real-time oscilloscope measurement of VCT in BPS 501 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The top waveform 602 is the voltage across capacitor energy storage device CET 510, and the bottom waveform 604 is the Buck_EN control signal. The short, needle-like negative voltage drop 606 across capacitor energy storage device CET is the visible response when the load is turned on (via the LOAD_EN signal). The time interval between the controlled battery inrush current peak 608 (or the voltage across capacitor energy storage device CET) and the first needle-like voltage drop 606 represents the battery relaxation period.

[0061] As previously mentioned, the electronic circuit system can be used to estimate the internal resistance of a battery by applying the double pulse method. Figure 4 and Figure 5 At time Ton, switch SW1 508 can be in the open state, and capacitor energy storage device CET 510 can be charged through resistor RCL 509. Since U1 504 is a voltage source, its output voltage Vout can be independent of the load current within the normal operating range. Furthermore, the voltage VCT across capacitor energy storage device CET 510 can be measured, thereby determining the voltage drop across resistor RCL 509 (Vout - VCT). Since the resistance value of RCL 509 is known, U3 can calculate the current through the resistor. Based on U1's conversion factor N (Vin / Vout) (optionally set by resistors RI and R2), U3 can calculate the battery current IBT1 = IRCL / N at time Ton. After switch SW1 508 is closed, the pre-charge voltage across capacitor energy storage device CET 510 at time Ton is known, and the voltage VCT at time Tout is also known, which should be substantially equal to U1's Vout (a slight voltage drop may exist across SW1 508). Since the capacitance of the capacitor energy storage device CET 510 can be known by design or estimated in real time using available information (as described above), the inrush charging current value of the capacitor energy storage device CET 510 can be calculated and, considering the known conversion factor of U1 504, the obtained value can be converted into battery current.

[0062] Reference Figure 7, which is an exemplary characteristic graph 700 of the current 720 of BAT 102 during the period when LOAD 114 is turned on and powered (optionally when operating in accordance with method 300), according to one embodiment of the present invention. Graph 700 plots BAT 102 output current I (in amperes (A)) on the y-axis 706 and time t (in milliseconds) on the x-axis 707. Until time 701, BPS 100 and LOAD 114 may be in a low-power state (optionally in the sub-milliampere range). At time 701 (which may be associated with step 308), the discharged capacitor reservoir CT 110 is connected to the disabled (current-limited) current limiter output. This may cause the battery current 720 to rise almost instantaneously to the current limit value 708 shown. The battery current 720 may then decrease as the voltage of capacitor reservoir CT 110 increases (as shown during time interval 704). Time point 702 may be associated with step 318, at which time current limiter CL 108 may be enabled and a second, very short surge in battery current 720 occurs (due to the low output impedance of VDC 104). Time interval 705 may be a settling (relaxation) delay associated with step 320. Time point 703 may be associated with step 322, at which time LOAD 114 may be turned on and the battery current may rise sharply to the level at which LOAD 114 is depleted.

[0063] It should be noted that the first battery current surge value 708, the battery current value 710 at time point 702, and the second battery current surge value 709 can all be independently controlled. It should also be noted that the first battery current surge value 708 and the second battery current surge value 709 can be unequal, and the specific values ​​of these current surges can be determined experimentally to optimize the overall operation of the BPS. Furthermore, it should be noted that the time interval 705 is also controllable. It should be noted that the time interval 704 depends on the design capacity of the CT 110, so that the battery current 710 does not depend on the actual capacity of the CT 110. Similarly, the second current surge value 709 does not depend on the actual capacity of the CT 110. It should be noted that the time interval 705 is more related to the relaxation (or stabilization) process of the carriers (ions) in the BAT 102 than the voltage stabilization process on the capacitor storage device, because the duration of this interval is much longer than the duration of the second current surge and can be measured on the order of tens (or even hundreds) of milliseconds, which corresponds to the mobility of the battery chemical carriers.

[0064] In certain embodiments, the above combined Figures 1 to 7 The BPS can be modified to also have a boost converter, or a combination converter such as a buck converter and a boost converter, for example a buck-boost converter. Figure 7The characteristics of the battery current shown as an example are controllable, which enables any type of battery power source to be used, regardless of whether the battery power source voltage is greater than, equal to, or less than the voltage required by the load.

[0065] According to certain embodiments, controlling the characteristics of the battery current may include generating a battery current profile having two time-spaced, amplitude-controlled current pulses, wherein the time interval between the current pulses is a delay automatically generated based on the real-time capacitance of the capacitor energy storage. This control approach may be particularly advantageous because it not only allows the BPS to be used with any type of battery source independent of the load voltage requirements, but also ensures that the operation of the BPS is not substantially affected by changes in the capacitor energy storage parameters (e.g., caused by environmental conditions such as temperature) or component aging. Figure 8 An example of such a battery current profile is shown in a graph 800 of an exemplary controlled battery current profile according to one embodiment of the present invention, which has two time-spaced current pulses 802 and 804 having controlled amplitudes CSP1 and CSP2, respectively. The time delay between the two current pulses 802 and 804 can be determined by the time interval between T1 and T2.

[0066] Before describing diagram 800 in more detail, as previously mentioned, BPS 100 can be modified to operate with batteries having voltages greater than, equal to, or less than the voltage required by the load. This can be achieved by controlling the characteristics of the battery current curve so that it includes two time-spaced, amplitude-controlled current pulses, where the time interval (delay) between the pulses is automatically generated based on the capacitance of the capacitive energy storage device. According to one embodiment of the present invention, Figure 9 This modified BPS 100 is exemplarily shown as BPS 900 and is described below.

[0067] In certain embodiments, BPS 900 may have a configuration similar to BPS 100 and may include a voltage converter (VCON) 904, a voltage regulator (VR) 906, a current limiter (CL) 908, a capacitor storage (CT) 910, and a control unit (CU) 912. BPS 900 may be configured to provide DC power from a battery (BAT) 902 to a load (LOAD) 914. BAT 902 may be similar to BAT 102, except that the battery voltage V1 may be greater than, less than, or equal to the voltage V2 required by LOAD 914.

[0068] VCON 904 may include a voltage converter for converting voltage V1 to voltage VOUT (substantially equal to V2), and is configured to be turned on (enabled) and off (disabled) by CU 912. When V1 is greater than V2, VCON 904 may be a step-down converter (such as a buck converter); when V1 is less than V2, it may be a step-up converter. Optionally, VCON 904 is a buck-boost converter that can automatically switch between boost mode and buck mode based on the required load voltage V2 of load LOAD 914. It should be noted that when V1 is within a range that is substantially "equal" to the required load voltage V2, VCON 904 may also provide a voltage VOUT that is substantially equal to V1.

[0069] VR 906 may be similar in function to VR 106 and configured to provide the power requirements of CU 912. CU 912 may be similar in function to CU 112 and configured to control components in BPS 900 according to programmed instructions and perform tasks related to the operation of BPS 900 as needed. Figure 10 The CT 910 may be similar in function to the CT 110 and configured to charge the voltage VCT of the capacitor storage to a value that can be used to provide the required load voltage V2.

[0070] CL 908 can include any type of controllable current limiter, configured to switch between two current limit levels (ILMT1 and ILMT2). ​​The values ​​of ILMT1 and ILMT2 can be determined by the chemistry and capacity of BAT 902. For example, ILMT1 can be in the range of tens to hundreds of milliamperes, representing a lower current limit level (i.e., a higher current flowing through CL 908), while ILMT2 can be a higher current limit level (i.e., a lower current flowing through CL 908). CL 908 can include a discharge path to provide automatic discharge of CT 910 when LOAD 914 is turned off.

[0071] Control signals 916, 918, and 920 may be functionally similar to control signals 116, 118, and 120, respectively. Monitoring signals 922 and 924 may be functionally similar to monitoring signals 122 and 124, respectively.

[0072] Returning to FIG. 800, which plots the battery output current IBAT (in amperes (A)) on the y-axis 806 and the time T (in milliseconds) on the x-axis 808. At time T < T1, BPS 900 may be in a low-power state (optionally sub-milliamp), LOAD 914 is in an off state, such that IBAT is substantially equal to 0 (the minimum current output required to power VR 906 and CU 912), and CT 910 is in a discharging state (VCT = 0). At time T1, VDC 906 is enabled, and there is a surge IBAT current flowing into the discharged capacitive energy storage CT 910, which appears as an almost instantaneous rise 810 of IBAT to a preset value ILMT1 = CSP1 in CL 908. Subsequently, IBAT may exponentially decrease 812 as the voltage VCT of the capacitive energy storage CT 910 rises, until the capacitor voltage reaches a predetermined threshold voltage VICL less than V2 at time T = T2. At time T = T2, CL 908 is set to a predetermined higher current limit ILMT2 = CSP2, resulting in a second almost instantaneous rise 814 of IBAT to CSP2 to charge CT 910 to substantially VCT = VOUT = V2, and then IBAT exponentially decreases 816 as the capacitive energy storage reaches full charge.

[0073] For a complete description of the operation of BPS 900, including the characteristics of controlling the battery current IBAT, reference is now made simultaneously to Figure 10 . Figure 10 FIG. 1000 is a flowchart of an exemplary algorithm according to an embodiment of the present invention, the algorithm including various steps performed by CU 912 in BPS 900 for providing intermittent power from BAT 902 to LOAD 914.

[0074] At 1002, BPS 900 may be in an initial state. VCON 904 may be off (disabled), VR 906 may be in an always-on state, running continuously and powering CU 912, CT 910 is discharging (VCT = 0), and LOAD 914 may be in an unpowered state.

[0075] At 1004, CU 912 may measure the voltage V1 by monitoring signal 922. CU 912 may be configured to measure the voltage V1 at a predetermined time interval or continuously.

[0076] At 1006, the CU 912 can determine whether the measured voltage V1 exceeds the minimum voltage VDCin (i.e., whether the battery voltage is sufficient to start the buck converter under light load). If it does not exceed, return to step 1002. It should be noted that as part of returning to step 1002, troubleshooting can be performed to determine whether BAT 902 may be faulty (or depleted). If it exceeds, continue.

[0077] At 1008, in response to determining that the voltage V1 > VDCin, the CU 912 can set ILMT1 in CL 908. Refer to Figure 8 , the CU 912 can set ILMT1 = CSP1. The CU 912 can set ILMT1 in CL 908 through the control signal 918.

[0078] At 1010, the CU 912 can turn on VCON 904 through the control signal 916, and the control signal 916 can act as an enabling signal. Depending on the voltage output of BAT 902 and the voltage load demand V2 of LOAD 914, VCON 904 can be a boost converter, a buck converter, or a buck / boost converter. In response to turning on VCON 904, the voltage VCT of CT 910 is charged to a value less than VOUT (and V2), and this value is limited by the selection of ILMT1 = CSP1 in CL 908 (limiting the inrush current IBAT, thereby limiting the charging of CT910). Refer to Figure 8 , the inrush IBAT for charging CT 910 appears as IBAT almost instantaneously rising 810 to the preset value CSP1.

[0079] At 1012, the CU 912 can measure the voltage VCT of CT 910. The voltage VCT can be measured periodically, and its period is significantly less than the time required to fully charge the capacitor energy storage CT 910 at the selected charging current level (e.g., 50 to 100 times smaller, or significantly less than the time constant of the capacitor charging circuit). Alternatively, the measurement can be continuous. The measurement can be performed through the monitoring signal 924.

[0080] At 1014, the CU 912 can compare each measured value of the voltage VCT with a predetermined threshold voltage VICL. VICL can be the threshold voltage value expected to be reached when CL 908 is set to ILMT1. VICL can be less than VOUT. If VCT < VICL, the threshold voltage has not been reached, go to 1012. If VCT ≥ VICL, continue.

[0081] At 1016, in response to the CU 912 measuring VCT > VICL through the monitoring signal, the control unit can set ILMT2 in CL 108 through the control signal 918 (refer to Figure 8 , ILMT2 = CSP2). The voltage VCT can increase and approach VOUT (it is not equal to VOUT because there is resistance in CL 908 in both current limit modes). At this time, CT 110 can be fully charged, providing additional charging for the inrush current generated by the change of the current limit level in CL108 from ILMT1 to ILMT2. It should be noted that VOUT can be substantially equal to V2, and since the capacitor energy storage CT 910 is charged to a voltage significantly lower than V2, VICL < V2, at the moment of switching CL908 from ILMT1 to ILMT2 (which can correspond to the higher current limit setting of VCON 904), a relatively large current (e.g., equal to the maximum current drawn by LOAD 914) may be drawn. This may result in a short - time current pulse ( Figure 8 the second pulse 804 in), causing the capacitor energy storage CT 910 to be fully charged. The amplitude of the current spike can be determined by the charge value of the capacitor energy storage CT at this time. Furthermore, the charge of the capacitor energy storage CT is determined by the value of the threshold voltage VICL and the amplitude CSP2 of the second controlled current pulse.

[0082] In some examples, at 1018, CU 912 measures the voltage VCT at CT 910 to determine whether it has reached the required load voltage V2. The measurement can be carried out by monitoring signal 924.

[0083] In some examples, at 1020, CU 912 compares the measured voltage VCT with the required load voltage V2. If VCT is significantly less than V2, it returns to 1018. Otherwise, it continues. It should be noted that due to Figure 8 the exponentially decreasing IBAT as shown by the exponential decay 816 in, CT 910 will continue to charge and VCT will increase to approach VOUT. <​​​​​​​At 1026, LOAD 914 may remain activated (enabled, turned on) until CU 912 deactivates (disables, turns off) LOAD 914 via control line 920. Alternatively, CU 912 may wait for and receive an external command (signal) that causes CU 912 to deactivate LOAD 914. While waiting for the external command (signal) to deactivate the load, CU 912 may maintain the state of the control output. It should be noted that in some embodiments, shutting off the power supply to LOAD 914 may be initiated by transferring control to a subroutine that can be executed by CU 912. CU 912 may, in turn, shut off LOAD 914 and disable VCON 904 (without delay or with a necessary delay if required by LOAD 914). As a result, capacitor tank CT 910 may be disconnected.

[0087] At 1028 , after deactivating LOAD 914 , CT 910 may be discharged through CL 908 .

[0088] At 1030 , the BPS may return to step 1002 to reinitialize the states of the BPS components.

[0089] As shown, flowchart 1000 includes steps 1000 to 1030. It should be noted that steps 1000 to 1030 may be repeated each time it is necessary to switch the operation of LOAD 914 between the unpowered state and the powered state. It should also be noted that those skilled in the art may implement the teachings of the algorithm described in flowchart 1000 using more or fewer steps and / or a different order of steps.

[0090] It should be noted that not all intermittently working devices are always in a powered on and powered off state, and some devices may have a sleep mode in which the device power consumption is very low rather than having to be completely powered off. Figure 9 The described BPS 900 can be modified to operate with intermittently operating equipment having a sleep mode.

[0091] Reference Figure 11 , which is a functional schematic diagram of a BPS 1100 according to another embodiment of the present invention, configured for use with an intermittently operating device having a low-power mode (sleep mode). BPS 1100 may be similar to BPS 900, except modified to provide DC power from BAT 902 to LOAD 1114, which is configured to switch between a high-power operating mode and a low-power sleep mode (in addition, or alternatively, an off mode in which the load is completely shut down).

[0092] Similar to BPS 900, BPS 1100 may include VCON 904, VR 906, CL 908, and CT 910. Similar to BPS 900, BPS 1100 may include control signals 916, 918, and 920, and monitoring signals 922 and 924. In addition to BPS 900, BPS 1100 may also include an optional second voltage regulator VR2 1107, first SW1, SW2, and a control unit CU 1112 that may be functionally similar to CU 912. Control unit CU 1112 is configured to control components in BPS 1100 according to programmed instructions and perform operations related to the operation of BPS 1100 as needed. Figure 12 In addition, there are control lines 1125, 1127 and 1129.

[0093] Optional VR2 1107 can be any suitable type of voltage regulator with very low load losses, used to generate a voltage equal to the voltage required by LOAD 1114 in sleep mode at very low load currents. VR2 1107 can be used if the output voltage of VR 906 is not suitable for simultaneously providing the required voltages for CU 1112 and LOAD 1114 (requiring different supply voltages). Alternatively, if the current consumption of LOAD 1114 in sleep mode is less than the discharge current, the discharge current of CT 910 can be used. In this case, when LOAD 1114 is powered off, CT 910 is not discharged through CL 908.

[0094] Control line 1125 can be used to allow CU 1112 to activate sleep mode for load 1114 (and can also serve as a monitoring line for the control unit to receive confirmation that the load has entered sleep mode). Control line 1127 can allow CU 1112 to control the operation of switch SW1, such that SW1 is closed when load 1114 needs to be powered or is in the on state, and is open when the load is in sleep mode. Control line 1129 can allow CU 1112 to control the operation of SW2, such that SW2 is open when load 1114 needs to be powered or is in the on state, and is closed when the load is in sleep mode.

[0095] Reference Figure 12 , which is an exemplary flow chart describing the control unit algorithm used in BPS1100 according to an embodiment of the present invention when powering intermittent working (switching) equipment (optionally, when switching the load between a low power state (sleep mode) and a power state).

[0096] Reference Figure 12, which is a flowchart 1200 describing an exemplary algorithm including steps executed by the CU 1112 in the BPS 1100 for providing intermittent power from the BAT 902 to the LOAD 1114, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] At 1202, the BPS 1100 may be in an initial state. All components are in the same state as in the algorithm 1000 (see Figure 10 ) in step 1002 of BPS 9000. Additionally, SW1 is closed and SW2 is open. Similarly to VR 906, optionally at step 1204, CU 1212 may perform steps similar to steps 1004 to 1024 of CU 912 in algorithm 1000, but in conjunction with BPS 1100.

[0098] At 1206, LOAD 1114 may remain activated (enabled, turned on) until CU 1212 invokes sleep mode for LOAD 1114 via control line 1125. Alternatively, CU 1212 may wait for and receive an external command (signal) that causes CU 1212 to activate sleep mode for LOAD 1114. While waiting for the external command (signal) to invoke sleep mode for the load, CU 1212 may maintain the state of the control output. Note that in some embodiments, activation of sleep mode for LOAD 1114 may be initiated by transferring control to a subroutine that can be executed by CU 1212.

[0099] At 1208 , CU 1212 may instruct LOAD 1114 to enter sleep mode. This instruction may be communicated via control line 1125 .

[0100] At 1210, CU 1212 may shut down (disable) VCON 904. CU 1212 may disable VCON 904 in response to receiving a sleep OK signal from LOAD 1114 confirming that the load has entered sleep mode. Alternatively, CU 1212 may disable VCON 904 after a predetermined period of time after invoking sleep mode via control line 1125. Alternatively, the predetermined period of time may be related to a time delay between LOAD 1114 receiving control signal 1125 and entering sleep mode.

[0101] At 1212, after disabling VCON 904, CT 910 may be discharged through SW1 immediately to power LOAD 1114 in sleep mode (typically in the microamp range). Alternatively, the discharge current from CT 910 may be leakage current from the capacitive energy reservoir.

[0102] At 1214 , CU 1212 may open SW1 via control line 1127 to disconnect CT 910 from LOAD 1114 , and close SW2 via control line 1129 to connect VR2 1107 to the load.

[0103] At 1216 , VR2 1107 may power LOAD 1114 in sleep mode, keeping the load in sleep mode until awakened.

[0104] At 1218, CU 1212 wakes up LOAD 1114 (if necessary) to prepare to power on the load. In this step, CU 1212 closes SW1 and opens SW2. BPS 1100 now returns to power-on mode (step 1024).

[0105] Additional Examples :

[0106] Example 1 relates to a battery power supply for powering an intermittent workload, comprising:

[0107] a buck converter configured to be connected in series with the battery and to output a voltage VOUT that is less than the battery voltage V1;

[0108] a current limiter connected in series with the buck converter and configured to provide a voltage drop in a current limiting mode and to substantially provide a short circuit in a non-current limiting mode;

[0109] a capacitive energy storage device connected in series with the current limiter, configured to provide a voltage V2 to a load and configured to: charge to a voltage VICL less than VOUT when the current limiter is switched to the current limiting mode; and charge to a voltage substantially equal to VOUT when the current limiter is switched to the non-current limiting mode; and

[0110] A controller is configured to monitor the battery voltage (V1) and the voltage (VCT) of the capacitor energy storage, and is configured to control the buck converter to switch between an off state and an on state, the current limiter to switch between the current limiting mode and the non-current limiting mode, and the load to switch between an off state and an on state.

[0111] Example 2 includes the subject matter of Example 1 and optionally, the controller switches the buck converter from the off state to the on state in response to receiving a signal from a source external to the battery power source.

[0112] Example 3 includes the subject matter of Example 1, and optionally, the controller switches the buck converter from the off state to the on state in response to the battery voltage V1 being greater than or equal to a turn-on voltage VDCin of the buck converter.

[0113] Example 4 includes the subject matter of Example 1, and optionally, the controller switches the current limiter from the current limiting mode to the non-current limiting mode when monitoring that VCT equals or exceeds a threshold voltage VICL that is less than VOUT.

[0114] Example 5 includes the subject matter of any one or more of the preceding examples, and optionally, the controller activates the load in response to the capacitive energy storage being charged to a voltage substantially equal to VOUT.

[0115] Example 6 includes the subject matter of Example 5, and optionally, before the controller activates the load, the voltage VCT of the capacitive energy storage is maintained at a voltage substantially equal to V2 for a period of time after the current limiter switches to the non-current limiting mode.

[0116] Example 7 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-6, and optionally, includes a voltage regulator for providing a regulated power supply to the controller.

[0117] Example 8 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-7, and optionally, the battery has a non-flat discharge curve and a relatively higher internal resistance compared to a battery having a flat discharge curve.

[0118] Example 9 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-8, and optionally, the battery comprises one or more alkaline batteries, one or more non-lithium batteries, one or more lithium batteries, or one or more lithium-ion batteries.

[0119] Example 10 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-7, and optionally, the battery has a flat discharge curve and a relatively low internal resistance.

[0120] Example 11 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-8, and optionally, the battery is integrated with the battery power source.

[0121] Example 12 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-11, and optionally, the intermittent workload comprises an Internet of Things (IoT) device.

[0122] Example 13 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 1-12, and optionally, the controller is external to the battery power source.

[0123] Example 14 relates to a method of providing direct current (DC) power from a battery to an intermittent operating load, the method comprising:

[0124] applying a voltage V1 from a battery to a series-connected buck converter configured to output a voltage VOUT less than V1;

[0125] applying the voltage VOUT to a current limiter connected in series with the buck converter, the current limiter configured to provide a voltage drop in a current limiting mode and to substantially provide a short circuit in a non-current limiting mode;

[0126] charging a capacitive energy storage connected in series with the current limiter to provide a voltage V2 to the load, the capacitive energy storage being configured to: charge to a voltage V1CL less than VOUT when the current limiter is switched to the current limiting mode; and charge to a voltage substantially equal to VOUT when the current limiter is switched to the non-current limiting mode; and

[0127] The buck converter is controlled to switch between an off state and an on state, the current limiter is controlled to switch between the current limiting mode and the non-current limiting mode, and the load is controlled to switch between an off state and an on state.

[0128] Example 15 includes the subject matter of Example 14 and optionally, comprising switching the buck converter from the off state to the on state in response to receiving a signal from a signal source external to the battery power source.

[0129] Example 16 includes the subject matter of Example 14 and optionally, includes switching the buck converter from the off state to the on state in response to the battery voltage V1 being greater than or equal to a turn-on voltage VDCin of the buck converter.

[0130] Example 17 includes the subject matter of Example 14 and optionally, includes switching the current limiter from the current limiting mode to the non-current limiting mode when VCT is monitored to be equal to or exceed a threshold voltage VICL that is less than VOUT.

[0131] Example 18 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 14-17, and optionally, includes measuring the battery voltage V1.

[0132] Example 19 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 14-18, and optionally, includes measuring the capacitive reservoir voltage VCT.

[0133] Example 20 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 14 to 19, and optionally, includes activating the load in response to the voltage VCT of the capacitive energy storage being charged to be substantially equal to V2 or VOUT.

[0134] Example 21 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 14-20, and optionally, within a period of time after the current limiter switches to the non-current limiting mode, the voltage VCT of the capacitive energy reservoir remains substantially equal to a voltage V2 for a period of time.

[0135] Example 22 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 14 to 20, and optionally, before the controller activates the load, after the current limiter switches to the non-current limiting mode, the voltage VCT of the capacitor energy storage remains substantially equal to the voltage V2 for a period of time.

[0136] Example 23 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 14-22, and optionally, the battery has a non-flat discharge curve and a relatively higher internal resistance compared to a battery having a flat discharge curve.

[0137] Example 24 includes the subject matter of Example 23, and optionally, the battery comprises one or more alkaline batteries.

[0138] Example 25 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 14-22, and optionally, the battery has a flat discharge curve and a relatively low internal resistance.

[0139] Example 26 includes the subject matter of Example 25, and optionally, the battery comprises one or more lithium batteries or lithium ion batteries.

[0140] Example 27 relates to a device configured to operate intermittently, comprising:

[0141] Batteries; and

[0142] A battery power supply comprising:

[0143] a buck converter configured to be connected in series with the battery and output a voltage VOUT that is less than the battery voltage V1;

[0144] a current limiter connected in series with the buck converter and configured to provide a voltage drop in a current limiting mode and to substantially provide a short circuit in a non-current limiting mode;

[0145] a capacitive energy storage device connected in series with the current limiter, configured to provide a voltage V2 to a load and configured to: charge to a voltage VICL less than VOUT when the current limiter is switched to the current limiting mode; and charge to a voltage substantially equal to VOUT when the current limiter is switched to the non-current limiting mode; and

[0146] The controller is configured to control the buck converter to switch between an off state and an on state, the current limiter to switch between the current limiting mode and the non-current limiting mode, and the load to switch between an off state and an on state.

[0147] Example 28 includes the subject matter of Example 27, and optionally, the battery has a non-flat discharge curve and a relatively higher internal resistance compared to a battery having a flat discharge curve.

[0148] Example 29 includes the subject matter of Example 27, and optionally, the battery has a flat discharge curve and a relatively low internal resistance.

[0149] Example 30 relates to a battery power supply for powering an intermittent workload, comprising:

[0150] a voltage converter configured to be connected in series with the battery and output a voltage VOUT greater than a voltage requirement V2 of the load;

[0151] a current limiter connected in series with the voltage converter and configured to switch between a first lower current limit level and a second higher current limit level;

[0152] a capacitive energy storage device connected in series with the current limiter for providing the voltage V2 to the load and configured to: charge to a voltage V1CL less than VOUT when the current limiter is switched to the first lower current limit level; and charge to a voltage VCT substantially equal to VOUT when the current limiter is switched to the second higher current limit level; and

[0153] The controller is configured to monitor the battery voltage V1 and the voltage VCT of the capacitive energy storage, and is configured to switch the current limiter from the first lower current limit level to the second higher current limit level in response to monitoring VCT>VICL. Where applicable, the subject matter of Example 30 can optionally be combined with any one or more of Examples 1 to 29.

[0154] Example 31 relates to a battery power supply for powering an intermittent operating load, comprising: a buck converter configured to be connected in series with a battery and to output a voltage VOUT less than a battery voltage V1; a current limiter connected in series with the buck converter and configured to provide a voltage drop in a current limiting mode and to substantially provide a short circuit in a non-current limiting mode; a capacitor energy storage device connected in series with the current limiter for providing a voltage V2 to the load and configured to: charge to a voltage VICL less than VOUT when the current limiter is switched to the current limiting mode; and charge to a voltage substantially equal to VOUT when the current limiter is switched to the non-current limiting mode; and a controller configured to monitor the battery voltage V1 and the voltage VCT of the capacitor energy storage device, and configured to control the buck converter to switch between an off state and an on state, the current limiter to switch between the current limiting mode and the non-current limiting mode, and the load to switch between an off state and an on state in response to the intermittent power consumption requirements of the load.

[0155] Example 32 includes the subject matter of Example 31 and optionally, the controller switches the buck converter from the off state to the on state in response to receiving a signal from a source external to the battery power source.

[0156] Example 33 includes the subject matter of Examples 31 and / or 32, and optionally, the controller switches the buck converter from the on state to the off state in response to the battery voltage V1 being less than a turn-on voltage VDCin of the buck converter.

[0157] Example 34 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 31 to 33, and optionally, the controller switches the current limiter from the current limiting mode to the non-current limiting mode when monitoring that VCT is equal to or exceeds a threshold voltage VICL that is less than VOUT.

[0158] Example 35 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 31 to 34, and optionally, the controller stores a value of VCT when monitoring that VCT is less than the threshold voltage VICL.

[0159] Example 36 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 31-35, and optionally, the controller activates the load in response to the voltage VCT of the capacitive energy storage charging to a voltage substantially equal to VOUT.

[0160] Example 37 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 31 to 36, and optionally, before the controller activates the load, the voltage VCT of the capacitor energy reservoir is maintained at a voltage substantially equal to VOUT for a period of time after the current limiter switches to the non-current limiting mode.

[0161] Example 38 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 31-37, and optionally, includes a voltage regulator for providing a regulated power supply to the controller.

[0162] Example 39 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 31-38, and optionally, the battery having a non-flat discharge curve and a relatively higher internal resistance compared to a battery having a flat discharge curve.

[0163] Example 40 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 31-39, and optionally, the battery comprises one or more alkaline batteries.

[0164] Example 41 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 31-40, and optionally, the battery has a flat discharge curve and / or a relatively low internal resistance.

[0165] Example 42 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 31-41, and optionally, the battery comprises one or more nickel-metal hydride batteries, lithium batteries, or lithium-ion batteries.

[0166] Example 43 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 31-42, and optionally, the battery is integrated with the battery power source.

[0167] Example 44 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 31-43, and optionally, the intermittent workload comprises an IoT device.

[0168] Example 45 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 31-44, and optionally, the controller is external to the battery power source.

[0169] Example 46 relates to a method of providing DC power to an intermittent operating load from a battery, the method comprising: applying a voltage V1 from the battery to a series-connected buck converter, the buck converter configured to output a voltage VOUT less than V1; applying the voltage VOUT to a current limiter connected in series with the buck converter, the current limiter configured to provide a voltage drop in a current limiting mode and to substantially provide a short circuit in a non-current limiting mode; charging a capacitive energy storage connected in series with the current limiter to provide a voltage V2 to the load, the capacitive energy storage configured to : when the current limiter switches to the current limiting mode, charging to a voltage VICL less than VOUT; when the current limiter switches to the non-current limiting mode, charging to a voltage substantially equal to VOUT; and monitoring the battery voltage (V1) and the voltage (VCT) of the capacitor energy storage, and controlling the buck converter to switch between an off state and an on state, the current limiter switching between the current limiting mode and the non-current limiting mode in response to the intermittent power consumption demand of the load, and the load switching between an off state and an on state.

[0170] Example 47 includes the subject matter of Example 46 and optionally, comprising switching the buck converter from the off state to the on state in response to receiving a signal from a signal source external to the battery power source.

[0171] Example 48 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 46-47, and optionally includes switching the buck converter from the off state to the on state in response to the battery voltage V1 being greater than or equal to a turn-on voltage VDCin of the buck converter.

[0172] Example 49 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 46 to 48, and optionally includes switching the current limiter from the current limiting mode to the non-current limiting mode when VCT is monitored to be equal to or exceed a threshold voltage VICL that is less than VOUT.

[0173] Example 50 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 46-49, and optionally, includes measuring the battery voltage V1.

[0174] Example 51 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 46-50, and optionally, includes measuring a capacitive reservoir voltage VCT.

[0175] Example 52 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 46 to 51, and optionally, includes storing a value of VCT when VCT is less than a threshold voltage VICL.

[0176] Example 53 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 46 to 52, and optionally, includes activating the load in response to the voltage VCT of the capacitive energy reservoir charging to a voltage substantially equal to VOUT.

[0177] Example 54 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 46 to 53, and optionally includes maintaining the voltage VCT of the capacitor energy reservoir at a voltage substantially equal to VOUT for a period of time after the current limiter switches to the non-current limiting mode before the controller activates the load.

[0178] Example 55 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 46 to 54, and optionally, includes adjusting a supply voltage of the controller.

[0179] Example 56 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 46-55, and optionally, the battery having a non-flat discharge curve and a relatively higher internal resistance compared to a battery having a flat discharge curve.

[0180] Example 57 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 46-56, and optionally, the battery comprises one or more alkaline batteries.

[0181] Example 58 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 46-57, and optionally, the battery has a flat discharge curve and / or a relatively low internal resistance.

[0182] Example 59 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 46-58, and optionally, the battery comprises one or more nickel-metal hydride batteries, lithium batteries, or lithium-ion batteries.

[0183] Example 60 relates to a device configured for intermittent operation, comprising: a battery; and a battery power supply comprising: a buck converter configured to be connected in series with the battery and to output a voltage VOUT less than a battery voltage V1; a current limiter connected in series with the buck converter and configured to provide a voltage drop in a current limiting mode and to substantially provide a short circuit in a non-current limiting mode; a capacitive energy storage connected in series with the current limiter for providing a voltage V2 to a load and configured to: charge to a voltage V1CL less than VOUT when the current limiter is switched to the current limiting mode; and charge to a voltage substantially equal to VOUT when the current limiter is switched to the non-current limiting mode; and

[0184] The controller is configured to control the buck converter to switch between an off state and an on state, the current limiter to switch between the current limiting mode and the non-current limiting mode in response to the intermittent power consumption demand of the load, and the load to switch between an off state and an on state.

[0185] Example 61 includes the subject matter of Example 60, and optionally, the device comprises an IoT device.

[0186] Example 62 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 60-61, and optionally, the battery having a non-flat discharge curve and a relatively higher internal resistance compared to a battery having a flat discharge curve.

[0187] Example 63 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 60-62, and optionally, the battery comprises one or more alkaline batteries.

[0188] Example 64 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 60-63, and optionally, the battery has a flat discharge curve and / or a relatively low internal resistance.

[0189] Example 65 includes the subject matter of any one or more of Examples 60-64, and optionally, the battery comprises one or more nickel-metal hydride batteries, lithium batteries, or lithium-ion batteries.

[0190] The various features and steps discussed above, as well as other known equivalents of each such feature or step, can be mixed and matched by one of ordinary skill in the art to perform methods consistent with the principles described herein. Although the present disclosure has been provided in the context of certain embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present disclosure extends to other alternative embodiments and / or uses other than the specifically described embodiments and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. Therefore, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific disclosure of the embodiments herein.

[0191] Any digital computer system, module, and / or engine illustrated herein may be configured or otherwise programmed to implement the methods disclosed herein, and to the extent that the system, module, and / or engine is configured to implement such methods, it is within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Once the system, module, and / or engine is programmed to perform specific functions according to computer-readable and executable instructions in the program software that implements the methods disclosed herein, it effectively becomes a dedicated computer for embodiments of the methods disclosed herein. The methods and / or processes disclosed herein may be implemented as a computer program product, which may be embodied in an information carrier, such as a non-transitory tangible computer-readable and / or non-transitory tangible machine-readable storage device. The computer program product may be directly loaded into the internal memory of a digital computer and includes software code portions for executing the methods and / or processes disclosed herein. The term "non-transitory" is used to exclude transient propagating signals, but includes any volatile or non-volatile computer memory technology suitable for the application. In addition, or alternatively, the methods and / or processes disclosed herein may be implemented as a computer program that may be intangibly embodied by a computer-readable signal medium. A computer-readable signal medium may include a propagated data signal with computer-readable program code embodied therein, for example, in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such a propagated signal may take any of a variety of forms, including, but not limited to, electromagnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A computer-readable signal medium may be any computer-readable medium other than a non-transitory computer or machine-readable storage device, and which may transmit, propagate, or convey a program for use by or in connection with the apparatus, systems, platforms, methods, operations, and / or processes discussed herein.

[0192] The terms "non-transitory computer-readable storage device" and "non-transitory machine-readable storage device" encompass distribution media, intermediate storage media, computer execution memory, and any other medium or device that can store for later reading a computer program that implements embodiments of the methods disclosed herein. A computer program product can be deployed to be executed on one or more computers located at one site or distributed across multiple sites and interconnected by one or more communication networks.

[0193] These computer-readable and executable instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing device to produce a machine, so that the instructions executed by the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing device generate a device for implementing the functions / actions specified in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams. These computer-readable and executable program instructions can also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that can direct a computer, programmable data processing device, and / or other device to operate in a specific manner, so that the computer-readable storage medium storing the instructions includes an article of manufacture that includes instructions for implementing the functions / actions specified in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams.

[0194] The computer-readable and executable instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to perform a series of operational steps on the computer, other programmable apparatus, or other device, thereby producing a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions executed on the computer, other programmable apparatus, or other device implement the functions / actions specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram blocks.

[0195] In the discussion, unless otherwise indicated, adjectives such as "substantially" and "about" modifying conditions or relational characteristics of features of embodiments of the present invention should be understood to mean that the condition or characteristic is defined within an acceptable tolerance range for the operation of the embodiment for its intended application.

[0196] Unless otherwise specified, the terms "about" and / or "approximately" with respect to amounts or values ​​may mean within an inclusive range of -10% to +10% of the corresponding amount or value.

[0197] It should be noted that when an embodiment refers to a condition that is "above a threshold," this should not be interpreted as excluding embodiments that refer to a condition that is "equal to or above a threshold." Similarly, when an embodiment refers to a condition that is "below a threshold," this should not be interpreted as excluding embodiments that refer to a condition that is "equal to or below a threshold." Clearly, if a condition is interpreted as being satisfied when the value of a given parameter is above a threshold, then the same condition is not considered satisfied when the value of the given parameter is equal to or below the given threshold. Conversely, if a condition is interpreted as being satisfied when the value of a given parameter is equal to or above a threshold, then the same condition is not considered satisfied when the value of the given parameter is below (and only below) the given threshold.

[0198] It should be understood that when the claims or description refer to "one" or "an" element and / or feature, such reference should not be interpreted as there being only one of such element. Thus, for example, reference to "an element" or "at least one element" may also encompass "one or more elements."

[0199] As used herein, the terms "configured" and / or "adapted" for a purpose or variations thereof, mean using materials and / or components in a manner designed, implemented, and / or operable or functional to achieve that purpose.

[0200] Unless otherwise stated or applicable, the use of the expression "and / or" between the last two members of a list of options indicates that selecting one or more of the listed options is appropriate and can be made, and can be used interchangeably with the expressions "at least one of the following," "any of the following," or "one or more of the following," followed by a list of the various options.

[0201] As used herein, the phrase "A, B, C, or any combination of the foregoing" should be interpreted to mean all of the following: (i) A, B, C, or any combination of A, B, and C; (ii) at least one of A, B, and C; and (iii) A, B, and / or C. This concept is illustrated using three elements (i.e., A, B, C) as an example, but is equally applicable to fewer or greater numbers of elements (e.g., A, B, C, D, etc.).

[0202] It should be noted that the term "operable to" or "operable to" may encompass the meaning of the term "adapted or configured to." In other words, a machine "operable to" or "operable to" perform a task may, in some embodiments, merely include the ability to perform that function (e.g., "adapted" to perform that function), while in other embodiments, may include a machine actually manufactured (e.g., "configured") to perform that function.

[0203] Throughout this application, various embodiments of the present invention may be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is for convenience and brevity only and should not be construed as a rigid limitation on the scope of the invention. Therefore, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all possible subranges within that range, as well as individual numerical values. For example, a description of a range such as 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as 1 to 4, 1 to 4, 1 to 5, 2 to 4, 2 to 6, 4 to 6, and individual numbers within that range, such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0204] Wherever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is intended to include any cited numeral (fractional or integer) within the indicated range. The phrases "a range between" a first indicated numeral and a "second indicated numeral" and "a range from" a first indicated numeral to" a second indicated numeral" are used interchangeably herein and are intended to include the first and second indicated numerals and all fractional and integer numerals therebetween.

[0205] It will be understood that combinations of features disclosed in different embodiments are also included within the scope of the present invention.

[0206] While certain features of the invention have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications, substitutions, changes, and equivalents will now occur to those skilled in the art. It is therefore intended that the appended claims encompass all such modifications and changes that fall within the true spirit of the invention.

Claims

1. A battery power supply for supplying intermittent workloads, characterized in that: include: a buck converter configured to be connected in series with the battery and to output a voltage VOUT that is less than the battery voltage V1; a current limiter connected in series with the buck converter and configured to provide a voltage drop in a current limiting mode and to substantially provide a short circuit in a non-current limiting mode; a capacitive energy storage device connected in series with the current limiter, configured to provide a voltage V2 to the load and configured to: charge to a voltage VICL less than VOUT when the current limiter is switched to the current limiting mode; and charge to a voltage substantially equal to VOUT when the current limiter is switched to the non-current limiting mode; as well as A controller is configured to monitor the battery voltage (V1) and the voltage (VCT) of the capacitor energy storage, and is configured to control the buck converter to switch between an off state and an on state, the current limiter to switch between the current limiting mode and the non-current limiting mode, and the load to switch between an off state and an on state.

2. The battery power supply according to claim 1, wherein: The controller switches the buck converter from the off state to the on state in response to receiving a signal from a signal source external to the battery power supply.

3. The battery power supply according to claim 1, wherein: In response to the battery voltage V1 being greater than or equal to a turn-on voltage VDCin of the buck converter, the controller switches the buck converter from the off state to the on state.

4. The battery power supply according to claim 1, wherein: The controller switches the current limiter from the current limiting mode to the non-current limiting mode when monitoring that VCT is equal to or exceeds a threshold voltage VICL that is less than VOUT.

5. A battery power supply according to any one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that The controller activates the load in response to the capacitive energy storage being charged to a voltage substantially equal to VOUT.

6. The battery power supply according to claim 5, characterized in that Before the controller activates the load, the voltage VCT of the capacitor energy storage is maintained at a voltage substantially equal to V2 for a period of time after the current limiter switches to the non-current limiting mode.

7. A battery power supply according to any one or more of the preceding claims, further comprising a voltage regulator for providing regulated power to the controller.

8. A battery power supply according to any one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that Compared with a battery having a flat discharge curve, the battery has a non-flat discharge curve and a relatively high internal resistance.

9. A battery power supply according to any one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that The battery includes one or more alkaline batteries, one or more non-lithium batteries, one or more lithium batteries, or one or more lithium-ion batteries.

10. A battery power supply according to any one or more of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that The battery has a flat discharge curve and relatively low internal resistance.

11. A battery power supply according to any one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that The battery is integrated with the battery power supply.

12. A battery power supply according to any one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that The intermittent workloads include Internet of Things (IoT) devices.

13. A battery power supply according to any one or more of the preceding claims, characterised in that The controller is external to the battery power source.

14. A method for providing DC power to an intermittent load from a battery, characterized in that: The method comprises: applying a voltage V1 from a battery to a series-connected buck converter configured to output a voltage VOUT less than V1; applying the voltage VOUT to a current limiter connected in series with the buck converter, the current limiter configured to provide a voltage drop in a current limiting mode and to substantially provide a short circuit in a non-current limiting mode; charging a capacitive energy storage connected in series with the current limiter to provide a voltage V2 to the load, the capacitive energy storage being configured to: charge to a voltage V1CL less than VOUT when the current limiter is switched to the current limiting mode; and charge to a voltage substantially equal to VOUT when the current limiter is switched to the non-current limiting mode; and The buck converter is switched between an off state and an on state, the current limiter is switched between the current limiting mode and the non-current limiting mode, and the load is switched between an off state and an on state.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that include: The buck converter is switched from the off state to the on state in response to receiving a signal from a source external to the battery power source.

16. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that include: In response to the battery voltage V1 being greater than or equal to the turn-on voltage VDCin of the buck converter, the buck converter is switched from the off state to the on state.

17. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that include: When it is sensed that VCT is equal to or exceeds a threshold voltage VICL that is less than VOUT, the current limiter is switched from the current limiting mode to the non-current limiting mode.

18. Method according to any one or more of claims 14 to 17, characterized in that include: The battery voltage V1 is measured.

19. Method according to any one or more of claims 14 to 18, characterized in that include: Measure the capacitor storage voltage VCT.

20. The method according to any one or more of claims 14 to 19, characterized in that include: In response to the voltage VCT of the capacitive energy storage being charged to a voltage substantially equal to VOUT, the load is activated.

21. The method according to any one or more of claims 14 to 20, characterized in that For a period of time after the current limiter switches to the non-current limiting mode, the voltage VCT of the capacitive energy storage is maintained at a voltage substantially equal to V2 for a period of time.

22. The method according to any one or more of claims 14 to 20, characterized in that After the current limiter switches to the non-current limiting mode and before the controller activates the load, the voltage VCT of the capacitor energy storage is maintained at a voltage substantially equal to V2 for a period of time.

23. Method according to any one or more of claims 14 to 22, characterized in that Compared with a battery having a flat discharge curve, the battery has a non-flat discharge curve and a relatively high internal resistance.

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein The battery comprises one or more alkaline batteries.

25. Method according to any one or more of claims 14 to 22, characterized in that The battery has a flat discharge curve and relatively low internal resistance.

26. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that The battery comprises one or more lithium batteries or lithium ion batteries.

27. A device configured to work intermittently, characterized in that include: Battery; as well as A battery power supply comprising: a buck converter configured to be connected in series with the battery and output a voltage VOUT that is less than the battery voltage V1; a current limiter connected in series with the buck converter and configured to provide a voltage drop in a current limiting mode and to substantially provide a short circuit in a non-current limiting mode; a capacitive energy storage device connected in series with the current limiter, configured to provide a voltage V2 to a load and configured to: charge to a voltage VICL less than VOUT when the current limiter is switched to the current limiting mode; and charge to a voltage substantially equal to VOUT when the current limiter is switched to the non-current limiting mode; and The controller is configured to control the buck converter to switch between an off state and an on state, the current limiter to switch between the current limiting mode and the non-current limiting mode, and the load to switch between an off state and an on state.

28. The device according to claim 27, characterized in that Compared with a battery having a flat discharge curve, the battery has a non-flat discharge curve and a relatively high internal resistance.

29. The apparatus according to claim 27, wherein The battery has a flat discharge curve and relatively low internal resistance.

30. A battery power supply for supplying power to an intermittent workload, characterized in that: include: a voltage converter configured to be connected in series with the battery and output a voltage VOUT greater than a voltage requirement V2 of the load; a current limiter connected in series with the voltage converter and configured to switch between a first lower current limit level and a second higher current limit level; a capacitive energy storage device connected in series with the current limiter for providing the voltage V2 to the load and configured to: charge to a voltage V1CL less than VOUT when the current limiter is switched to the first lower current limit level; and charge to a voltage VCT substantially equal to VOUT when the current limiter is switched to the second higher current limit level; as well as A controller is configured to monitor a battery voltage V1 and the voltage VCT of the capacitive energy storage, and is configured to switch the current limiter from the first lower current limit level to the second higher current limit level in response to monitoring VCT>VICL.

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