Dynamic charging module system and method

Abstract

A system relating to dynamic charging of an energy storage device is disclosed. The system includes a circuit including a high voltage charger, a first energy storage device, a second energy storage device, and a controller. The controller is configured to insert the first energy storage device into the circuit in series with the high voltage charger, cause the circuit to electrically bypass the first energy storage device such that the first energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger, and cause the circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device. The second energy storage device is inserted into the circuit in series with the high voltage charger such that the circuit electrically bypasses the second energy storage device such that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger. And causing the high voltage charger to charge an energy storage device in the circuit connected in series with the high voltage charger.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 482,838, filed February 2, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. In addition, the contents of U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 648,285, filed January 18, 2022, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Background Art

[0003] An energy storage system can include one or more energy storage devices, such as battery cells, battery modules, or battery packs, connected in series or parallel with one another. Energy storage devices can be connected in series to be recharged simultaneously by a single charger, provided that each energy storage device in the series has the same voltage and rated capacity. This charging scheme can be achieved by applying a voltage level to the system suitable for driving current through the energy storage devices.

[0004] However, the energy storage system may experience reduced efficiency when, for example, a battery cell in the battery pack experiences a defect or failure (e.g., overheating, battery polarization, or low voltage output) or there is a slight imbalance between subsequent battery cells (e.g., different states of charge (SOC) or states of health (SOH)). This reduced efficiency may be due to inconsistencies in production and / or wear over time. If there are differences in SOC or SOH between battery cells, the maximum energy transfer to the battery cells per unit time is limited because each battery cell may reach a full charge level or experience a gradual decrease in charge at a different time. This reduces the overall charge rate and / or charging power input to the energy storage system, thereby increasing the total charging time. Sometimes, these imbalances may even prevent one or more battery cells in the battery pack from being charged to their maximum capacity. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Embodiments described herein relate to systems and methods for dynamically charging energy storage devices such as batteries. More specifically, some embodiments address limitations in charging unevenly discharged energy storage devices in modules that allow for higher charge energy input per unit time.

[0006] An example embodiment includes a system. The system includes a circuit comprising a high-voltage charger, a first energy storage device, a second energy storage device, and a controller. The controller is configured to insert the first energy storage device into the circuit in series with the high-voltage charger, cause the circuit to electrically bypass the first energy storage device so that the first energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger, insert the second energy storage device into the circuit in series with the high-voltage charger, cause the circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger, and cause the high-voltage charger to charge the first energy storage device and the second energy storage device while connected in series with the high-voltage charger in the circuit.

[0007] Another exemplary embodiment includes a method. The method includes determining, by a controller, a first voltage level of a first energy storage device of an electrical circuit, determining, by the controller, a second voltage level of a second energy storage device of the electrical circuit, comparing, by the controller, the first voltage level and the second voltage level to a set of threshold voltage levels, determining, by the controller, that the second voltage level is greater than a maximum threshold voltage level of the set of threshold voltage levels, inserting, by the controller, the first energy storage device in the electrical circuit in series with a high-voltage charger based on determining that the second voltage level is greater than the maximum threshold voltage level, causing, by the controller, the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device such that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger, and causing, by the controller, the high-voltage charger to charge the first energy storage device.

[0008] Another example embodiment relates to a non-transitory computer-readable medium having program instructions stored thereon that, when executed by a processor, cause performance of a set of actions, the set of actions including determining a first voltage level of a first energy storage device, determining a second voltage level of a second energy storage device, comparing the first voltage level and the second voltage level to a set of threshold voltage levels, determining that the second voltage level is greater than a maximum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels, inserting the first energy storage device into a circuit in series with a high-voltage charger based on determining that the second voltage level is greater than the maximum threshold voltage level, and causing the circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device such that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger; and causing the high-voltage charger to charge the first energy storage device.

[0009] These and other aspects, advantages and alternatives will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art by reading the following detailed description and, where appropriate, referring to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 A system for dynamically charging an energy storage device according to an exemplary embodiment is provided.

[0011] Figure 2 A system for dynamically charging energy storage devices using an isolated low-voltage charger independently connected to each energy storage device is disclosed in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.

[0012] Figure 3 A method of dynamically charging an energy storage device according to an exemplary embodiment is provided.

[0013] Figure 4 Depicted is a flow chart representing program instructions executable by a processor for dynamically charging an energy storage device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0014] Figure 5 Depicted is a flow diagram representative of program instructions executable by a processor for dynamically charging energy storage devices using an isolated low voltage charger independently connected to each energy storage device, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0015] Figure 6 Depicted is a flow diagram representative of program instructions executable by a processor for dynamically charging energy storage devices using both a high voltage charger independently connected to each energy storage device and an isolated low voltage charger according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0016] Figure 7 is an illustration of a computing device according to an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] Disclosed herein are examples of energy storage systems and methods for dynamically charging energy storage devices in an energy storage system to address limitations in charging unevenly discharged energy storage devices in modules that allow for higher charge energy input per unit time.

[0018] Overview

[0019] Example embodiments herein provide an energy storage system that includes the ability to switch out an energy storage device that experiences a difference in SOC or SOH from the remaining energy storage devices from a series of charged energy storage devices until the SOC and / or SOH are more similar to the remaining energy storage devices in the energy storage system. Without this capability, each energy storage device would need to have the same design of the same battery type in order to be able to charge all batteries to their full capacity. In addition, these energy storage devices would need to be balanced at all times to fully charge all batteries and fully discharge them. However, in reality, each energy storage device has a different impedance and capacity distribution (for example, as a result of manufacturing tolerances) and starts out unbalanced at the beginning of its life. As the energy storage devices age, the differences between these energy storage devices will increase, resulting in longer charging times. Utilizing dynamic capabilities, the charging efficiency of the energy storage system can be increased, thereby reducing the amount of time it takes to charge all energy storage devices in the energy storage system.

[0020] Thus, example embodiments provide an energy storage system with the dynamic capability to insert and remove energy storage devices into a range of energy storage devices having different SOCs or SOHs above minimum and / or maximum thresholds than the remaining energy devices in the energy storage system.

[0021] Example Embodiments

[0022] Figure 1 The present invention is a system for dynamically charging series-connected energy storage devices according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown, the embodiment may include system 100, which includes a circuit. System 100 may include a high-voltage charger 102. For example, high-voltage charger 102 may be a DC charger that can provide power to other components of the circuit. In some embodiments, high-voltage charger 102 may be capable of providing a constant current and / or a constant voltage at a command level given to high-voltage charger 102.

[0023] System 100 may also include at least a first energy storage device 104 and a second energy storage device 106. In some embodiments, system 100 may include three or more energy storage devices, such as Figure 1 . Energy storage devices 104, 106, and 108 can be any type of energy storage device configured to receive electrical energy from an external circuit and store the energy or release the stored energy to an external electrical load. Example energy storage devices include battery cells (e.g., lithium-ion battery cells) and capacitors.

[0024] Furthermore, system 100 may include a controller 110. In some embodiments, controller 110 may be capable of inserting first energy storage device 104 into a circuit in series with high-voltage charger 102, inserting second energy storage device 106 into a circuit in series with high-voltage charger 102, and inserting third energy storage device 108 into a circuit in series with high-voltage charger 102. Controller 110 may also electrically bypass first energy storage device 104 so that first energy storage device 104 is not connected to high-voltage charger 102, electrically bypass second energy storage device 106 so that second energy storage device 106 is not connected to high-voltage charger 102, and electrically bypass third energy storage device 108 so that third energy storage device 108 is not connected to high-voltage charger 102. Furthermore, controller 110 may be configured to cause high-voltage charger 102 to charge energy storage devices 104, 106, and 108 when such energy storage devices 104, 106, and 108 are connected in series with high-voltage charger 102 in the circuit.

[0025] The controller 110 may include one or more components that can be used to store and / or execute a series of steps. For example, the controller 110 may include a processor (e.g., a general-purpose processor or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)) and a memory (e.g., a volatile memory such as a random access memory (RAM) or a non-volatile memory such as a read-only memory (ROM)). In such embodiments, the processor may be configured to execute instructions stored in the memory.

[0026] In addition, the controller 110 can be communicatively coupled to the high-voltage charger 102 and / or the energy storage devices 104, 106, and 108. For example, the controller 110 can be capable of determining the SOC and / or SOH of each of the energy storage devices 104, 106, and 108 in order to further execute a series of steps or other control algorithms for different types of high-power charging to help improve efficiency during the charging process. Because each energy storage device 104, 106, and 108 can be removed from the series of energy storage devices in the system 100, the controller 110 has the ability to optimize the efficiency and accuracy of the system 100.

[0027] In some embodiments, system 100 may include a safety disconnect 112 such that controller 110 may direct the safety disconnect 112 to move between an open position (to stop current flow through the circuit) and a closed position (so that current can flow freely through the circuit).

[0028] In some embodiments, the system 100 may include a first connection circuit 114 and a second connection circuit 116. In some embodiments, the first connection circuit 114 and the second connection circuit 116 may be communicatively coupled to the controller 110. However, in Figure 1 In other embodiments shown, first connection circuit 114 and second connection circuit 116 may be in indirect communication with controller 110 by incorporating contactor control unit 120. Contactor control unit 120 may be communicatively coupled to controller 110 and first connection circuit 114 and second connection circuit 116. Controller 110 and / or contactor control unit 120 may enable insertion of first energy storage device 104 and / or second energy storage device 106 into a circuit created by system 100.

[0029] Inserting first energy storage device 104 into the circuit in series with high-voltage charger 102 may include positioning first connection circuit 114 in first connection position 122A. Similarly, electrically bypassing first energy storage device 104 so that first energy storage device 104 is not connected to high-voltage charger 102 may include positioning first connection circuit 114 in first bypass position 122B. Similarly, inserting second energy storage device 106 into the circuit in series with high-voltage charger 102 may include positioning second connection circuit 116 in second connection position 124A. Furthermore, electrically bypassing second energy storage device 106 so that second energy storage device 106 is not connected to high-voltage charger 102 may include positioning second connection circuit 116 in second bypass position 124B.

[0030] In some embodiments, the system 100 may further include additional connection circuits (eg, a third connection circuit 118, such as Figure 1 ). In such an example, inserting third energy storage device 108 into the circuit in series with high-voltage charger 102 can include positioning third connection circuit 118 in third connection position 126A. Additionally, electrically bypassing third energy storage device 106 so that third energy storage device 106 is not connected to high-voltage charger 102 can include positioning third connection circuit 118 in third bypass position 126B.

[0031] In some embodiments, first connection circuit 114 may include a first contactor such that an end of the first contactor is configured to engage a connection terminal in first connection location 122A when first energy storage device 104 is connected to high-voltage charger 102. Additionally, the first contactor may be configured to engage a bypass terminal in first bypass location 122B when first energy storage device 104 is removed from connection with high-voltage charger 102. Similarly, in some embodiments, second connection circuit 116 may be a second contactor, and third connection circuit 118 may be a third contactor.

[0032] To maximize the charging power of system 100, controller 110 can dynamically change which energy storage devices are connected in series with high-voltage charger 102. To do this, a set of instructions can be created regarding the order in which energy storage devices are connected and disconnected for maximum efficiency. There are many examples of how this can be implemented. For example, in some embodiments, controller 110 can provide instructions to other components of system 100 when determining how to most efficiently charge each energy storage device in system 100. For example, energy storage devices determined by controller 110 to exceed their maximum voltage can be bypassed by the remaining energy storage devices in the series connection with high-voltage charger 102. Subsequently, energy storage devices determined by controller 110 to have voltages below a low voltage threshold can also be bypassed by the remaining energy storage devices in the series connection with high-voltage charger 102. Furthermore, energy storage devices determined by controller 110 (e.g., based on the SOC or SOH of those energy storage devices) to have voltage levels below a maximum threshold level and above a minimum threshold level (i.e., therefore capable of charging at the maximum rate) can be inserted into the series circuit with high-voltage charger 102. In this way, controller 110 can maximize the number of energy storage devices connected in series with high-voltage charger 102 while still bypassing each energy storage device when necessary to maximize charging efficiency.Controller 110 can also perform other sets of actions.

[0033] Figure 2 The present invention is a system for dynamically charging series-connected energy storage devices using an isolated low-voltage charger independently connected to each energy storage device according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in the figure, the embodiment may include a system 200 including a circuit. The system 200 may include Figure 1 1. For example, system 200 may include a high-voltage charger 202, a first energy storage device 204, a second energy storage device 206, and a third energy storage device 208. System 200 may also include a controller 210 communicatively coupled to one or more other components of system 200.

[0034] In some embodiments, the system 200 may further include a safety disconnect device 212. In some embodiments, the system 200 includes a first connection circuit 214 and a second connection circuit 216. In some embodiments, the first connection circuit 214 and the second connection circuit 216 may be directly communicatively coupled to the controller 210. However, in other embodiments, the first connection circuit 214 and the second connection circuit 216 may be indirectly communicatively coupled to the controller 210 by incorporating a contactor control unit 220.

[0035] Inserting first energy storage device 204 into the circuit in series with high-voltage charger 202 may include positioning first connection circuit 214 in first connection position 222A. Similarly, electrically bypassing first energy storage device 204 so that first energy storage device 204 is not connected to high-voltage charger 202 may include positioning first connection circuit 214 in first bypass position 222B. Similarly, inserting second energy storage device 206 into the circuit in series with high-voltage charger 202 may include positioning second connection circuit 216 in second connection position 224A. Additionally, electrically bypassing second energy storage device 206 so that second energy storage device 206 is not connected to high-voltage charger 202 may include positioning second connection circuit 216 in second bypass position 224B. Furthermore, inserting third energy storage device 208 into the circuit in series with high-voltage charger 202 may include positioning third connection circuit 218 in third connection position 226A. Additionally, electrically bypassing the circuit to electrically bypass third energy storage device 206 such that third energy storage device 206 is not connected to high-voltage charger 202 may include positioning third connection circuit 118 in third bypass position 226B.

[0036] Additionally, in some embodiments, system 200 may further include a first low-voltage charger 228 connected to first energy storage device 204, such that controller 210 is configured to cause first low-voltage charger 228 to charge or discharge first energy storage device 204 when first energy storage device 204 is not connected to high-voltage charger 202. This may occur when first connection circuit 214 is in first bypass position 222B. Similarly, in some embodiments, system 200 may further include a second low-voltage charger 230 connected to second energy storage device 206, such that controller 210 is configured to cause second low-voltage charger 230 to charge or discharge second energy storage device 206 when second energy storage device 206 is not connected to high-voltage charger 202 (occurs when second connection circuit 216 is in second bypass position 224B) and / or a third low-voltage charger 232 connected to third energy storage device 208, such that controller 210 is configured to cause third low-voltage charger 232 to charge or discharge third energy storage device 208 when third energy storage device 208 is not connected to high-voltage charger 202 (occurs when third connection circuit 218 is in third bypass position 226B).

[0037] In some embodiments, first low-voltage charger 228 may be isolated and connected in series with first energy storage device 204 , second low-voltage charger 230 may be isolated and connected in series with second energy storage device 206 , and third low-voltage charger 232 may be isolated and connected in series with third energy storage device 208 .

[0038] In some embodiments, the first low-voltage charger 228, the second low-voltage charger 230, the third low-voltage charger 232, and the high-voltage charger 202 can all be connected in parallel with each other. Thus, the controller 210 can be configured to cause the high-voltage charger 202 to charge or discharge the low-voltage chargers 228, 230, and 232 connected in parallel with the high-voltage charger 202. In some embodiments, the first low-voltage charger 228, the second low-voltage charger 230, and the third low-voltage charger 232 can each be a bidirectional balancing charger.

[0039] To maximize the charging power of system 200, controller 210 may be able to dynamically change which energy storage devices are connected in series with high-voltage charger 202. To do this, a set of instructions can be created regarding the order in which energy storage devices are connected and disconnected for maximum efficiency. There are many examples of how this can be implemented. For example, in some embodiments, controller 210 can provide instructions to other components of system 200 when determining how to most efficiently charge each energy storage device in system 200. For example, an energy storage device determined by controller 210 to be at its maximum voltage can be bypassed by the remaining series-connected energy storage devices. A low-voltage charger isolated from that energy storage device can then be used to discharge the energy storage device to a suitable level to balance with the remaining energy storage devices in the series. Next, an energy storage device determined by controller 210 to have a voltage less than a low-voltage threshold can be bypassed and charged using a low-voltage charger isolated from that energy storage device. Thereafter, an energy storage device determined by controller 210 to have an impedance above the threshold level can be bypassed, and the low-voltage charger isolated from that energy storage device can be used to charge the energy storage device within its reduced charging limits. In addition, the controller 210 can use the SOC and SOH levels of the energy storage devices to determine energy storage devices that have voltage levels below a threshold level and are therefore capable of charging at a maximum rate. These energy storage devices can be connected in series with the high-voltage charger 202. In this way, the controller 210 can maximize the number of energy storage devices connected in series with the high-voltage charger 202, while still bypassing each energy storage device when necessary to maximize efficiency. However, when the voltage level of the energy storage device approaches its maximum charge voltage, the energy storage device can be bypassed from the series connection so that the corresponding low-voltage charger can be used to complete the charging and balancing process. Other group actions may also be performed by the controller 210 and are contemplated herein.

[0040] Figure 3 A method 300 of dynamically charging an energy storage device according to an exemplary embodiment is provided.

[0041] At block 302 , method 300 may include determining, by a controller, a first voltage level of a first energy storage device of a circuit.

[0042] At block 304 , method 300 may include determining, by a controller, a second voltage level of a second energy storage device of the circuit.

[0043] At block 306 , the method 300 may include comparing, by the controller, the first voltage level and the second voltage level to a set of threshold voltage levels.

[0044] At block 308 , the method 300 may include determining, by the controller, that the second voltage level is greater than a maximum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels.

[0045] At block 310, method 300 may include, based on determining that the second voltage level is greater than a maximum threshold voltage level, inserting, by the controller, the first energy storage device into the circuit in series with the high-voltage charger, and causing, by the controller, the circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger. In some embodiments, inserting, by the controller, the first energy storage device into the circuit in series with the high-voltage charger includes positioning a first connection circuit connected to the first energy storage device in a first connection position, and causing, by the controller, the circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger includes positioning a second connection circuit connected to the second energy storage device in a second bypass position. Furthermore, in such embodiments, the first connection circuit may include a first contactor, and the second connection circuit may include a second contactor.

[0046] At block 312 , method 300 may include causing, by the controller, the high-voltage charger to charge the first energy storage device.

[0047] Additional and alternative steps of method 300 are possible and contemplated herein. For example, method 300 may further include determining, by the controller, a third voltage level of the third energy storage device, comparing, by the controller, the third voltage level to a set of threshold voltage levels, determining, by the controller, that the third voltage level is less than a minimum threshold voltage level of the set of threshold voltage levels, and, based on determining that the third voltage level is less than the minimum threshold voltage level, causing, by the controller, the circuit to electrically bypass the third energy storage device such that the third energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger.

[0048] In some embodiments, method 300 may further include causing, by the controller, a second low-voltage charger connected to the second energy storage device to discharge the second energy storage device until the second voltage level is less than a maximum threshold voltage level, or causing, by the controller, a third low-voltage charger connected to the third energy storage device to charge the third energy storage device until the third voltage level is greater than a minimum threshold voltage level. Furthermore, in some embodiments, method 300 may include, based on determining that the second voltage level is less than the maximum threshold voltage level, inserting, by the controller, the second energy storage device in series circuit with the high-voltage charger, or based on determining that the third voltage level is greater than the minimum threshold voltage level, inserting, by the controller, the third energy storage device in series circuit with the high-voltage charger.

[0049] In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable medium having program instructions stored thereon is disclosed that, when executed by a processor, causes a set of actions to be performed, the set of actions comprising determining a first voltage level of a first energy storage device, determining a second voltage level of a second energy storage device, comparing the first voltage level and the second voltage level to a set of threshold voltage levels, determining that the second voltage level is greater than a maximum threshold voltage level of the set of threshold voltage levels, inserting the first energy storage device into a circuit in series with a high-voltage charger based on determining that the second voltage level is greater than the maximum threshold voltage level, electrically bypassing the second energy storage device in the circuit so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger, and causing the high-voltage charger to charge the first energy storage device. The non-transitory computer-readable medium may also include program instructions corresponding to any step from method 300.

[0050] For example, a set of actions of a non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereon program instructions executable by a processor may include: Figure 4 at any step in the . Figure 4 Depicted is a flow chart representing program instructions executable by a processor (eg, of a controller) for dynamically charging an energy storage device, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0051] Similarly, a set of actions of a non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereon program instructions executable by a processor may include Figure 5 at any step in the . Figure 5 Depicted is a flow chart representing program instructions executable by a processor (eg, of a controller) for dynamically charging energy storage devices using an isolated low voltage charger independently connected to each energy storage device, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0052] Similarly, a set of actions of a non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereon program instructions executable by a processor may include Figure 6 at any step in the . Figure 6 Depicted is a flow diagram representing program instructions executable by a processor (e.g., of a controller) for dynamically charging energy storage devices using both a high-voltage charger independently connected to each energy storage device and an isolated low-voltage charger, according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0053] Figure 7 is a simplified block diagram illustrating some components of an example computing device 700. In some embodiments, a controller (e.g., Figure 1 The controller 110 shown and described with reference to Figure 2 The controller 210 shown and described may include a computing device 700. The computing device 700 may correspond to a computing device configured to perform additional functions (e.g., communicate with one or more other computing devices using a web browser and / or applications). In various embodiments, the computing device 700 may be a mobile computing device (e.g., a smartphone), a desktop computing device, a laptop computing device, a tablet computing device, or a wearable computing device (e.g., a smart watch or smart wristband). Figure 7 As shown, computing device 700 may include a network interface 702, a user interface 704, a processor 706, and a data storage device 708. Network interface 702, user interface 704, processor 706, and / or data storage device 708 may be communicatively linked together via a bus 710 (e.g., an electrical interconnect defined on one or more printed circuit boards).

[0054] Computing device 700 can use network interface 702 to communicate with other computing devices over one or more networks (e.g., the public Internet). In some embodiments, network interface 702 can include a wired interface (e.g., Ethernet). Additionally or alternatively, network interface 702 can include a wireless interface, such as WIFI. Other interfaces can be included in network interface 702 and are contemplated herein.

[0055] The user interface 704 may be used to allow the computing device 700 to receive input from a user and / or provide output to a user. Thus, the user interface 704 may include input (e.g., a keypad, a keyboard, a touch screen, a computer mouse, a microphone, a microphone jack, etc.) and / or output (e.g., a cathode ray tube (CRT) display, a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display, a speaker, a speaker jack, headphones, a headphone jack, etc.).

[0056] Processor 706 may include one or more general-purpose processors (e.g., microprocessors) and / or one or more special-purpose processors (e.g., graphics processing units (GPUs) or application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs)). In some embodiments, for example, processor 106 may include a special-purpose processor capable of generating a machine learning model and / or using a machine learning model to perform analysis as described herein.

[0057] The data storage device 708 may include one or more volatile and / or non-volatile memories. For example, the data storage device may include RAM, ROM, a hard drive, a solid-state drive, etc. In some embodiments, the data storage device 708 may be partially or completely integrated with the processor 706 (e.g., a level 1 (L1) cache or a level 2 (L2) cache within a central processing unit). The data storage device 108 may include removable components (e.g., a flash drive) and / or non-removable components (e.g., a ROM integrated with the motherboard).

[0058] The processor 706 can be configured to execute instructions 718 (e.g., compiled or uncompiled program logic and / or machine code) stored in the data storage device 708 to perform the methods described herein. Thus, the data storage device 708 may include a non-transitory computer-readable medium having program instructions stored thereon that, when executed by the processor 706, causes the processor 706 to perform any of the methods, processes, or operations disclosed in this specification and / or the accompanying drawings. In some embodiments, the processor 706 may use the application data 712 while executing the instructions 718.

[0059] In some embodiments, the instructions 718 may include an operating system 722 (e.g., an operating system kernel, device drivers, and / or other modules) and one or more applications 720 (e.g., mobile applications, sometimes referred to as "applications"). As described above, the processor 706 may access the application data 712 when executing the application 720.

[0060] Applications 720 can communicate with operating system 722 through one or more application programming interfaces (APIs). These APIs can facilitate, for example, applications 720 reading and / or writing application data 712, transmitting or receiving information via network interface 702, receiving and / or displaying information on user interface 704, etc.

[0061] Additionally, applications 720 may be downloaded to computing device 700 through one or more online application stores or application marketplaces (e.g., using network interface 702). However, application programs may also be installed on computing device 700 in other ways, such as via a web browser or through a physical interface on computing device 700 (e.g., a universal serial bus (USB) port).

[0062] While many of the techniques and functions described herein can be performed by the processor 706 executing one of the applications 720, it should be understood that other ways for the computing device 700 to perform such techniques and functions are possible and contemplated herein. For example, some or all of the computations can be performed remotely (e.g., on a server computing device). When the computing device 700 provides data (e.g., application data 712) to a different computing device for analysis using a web browser, such embodiments can be referred to as "browser-based applications." Additionally or alternatively, such interactions between the computing device 700 and another computing device can be performed using an API or a browser-based language (e.g., JavaScript).

[0063] Therefore, in various embodiments, the present disclosure provides a system. The system includes a circuit including a high-voltage charger, a first energy storage device, a second energy storage device, and a controller. The controller is configured to insert the first energy storage device into the circuit in series with the high-voltage charger so that the circuit electrically bypasses the first energy storage device, so that the first energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger; insert the second energy storage device into the circuit in series with the high-voltage charger so that the circuit electrically bypasses the second energy storage device, so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger; and cause the high-voltage charger to charge the first energy storage device and the second energy storage device when connected in series with the high-voltage charger in the circuit.

[0064] In various such embodiments of the system, the system further comprises a first low-voltage charger connected to the first energy storage device. The controller is further configured to cause the first low-voltage charger to charge or discharge the first energy storage device when the first energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger. The system further comprises a second low-voltage charger connected to the second energy storage device. The controller is further configured to cause the second low-voltage charger to charge or discharge the second energy storage device when the second energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger.

[0065] In various such embodiments of the system, the first low-voltage charger is connected in isolated series with the first energy storage device, and the second low-voltage charger is connected in isolated series with the second energy storage device.

[0066] In various such embodiments of the system, the first low-voltage charger, the second low-voltage charger, and the high-voltage charger are connected in parallel.

[0067] In various such embodiments of the system and method, the controller is further configured to cause the high-voltage charger to charge or discharge the first and second low-voltage chargers when connected in parallel with the high-voltage charger in the circuit.

[0068] In various such embodiments of the system, the first low-voltage charger and the second low-voltage charger each comprise a bidirectional balancing charger.

[0069] In various such embodiments of the system, the system further comprises a first connection circuit such that inserting the first energy storage device into the circuit in series with the high-voltage charger comprises positioning the first connection circuit in a first connection position, and causing the circuit to electrically bypass the first energy storage device such that the first energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger comprises positioning the first connection circuit in the first bypass position. The system further comprises a second connection circuit such that inserting the second energy storage device into the circuit in series with the high-voltage charger comprises positioning the second connection circuit in a second connection position, and causing the circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device such that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger comprises positioning the second connection circuit in the second bypass position.

[0070] In various such embodiments of the system, the first connection circuit includes a first contactor and the second connection circuit includes a second contactor.

[0071] In various such embodiments of the system, the first energy storage device and the second energy storage device each comprise a lithium-ion battery.

[0072] In various other embodiments, the present disclosure also provides a method, the method including determining, by a controller, a first voltage level of a first energy storage device of a circuit, determining, by the controller, a second voltage level of a second energy storage device of the circuit, comparing, by the controller, the first voltage level and the second voltage level to a set of threshold voltage levels, determining, by the controller, that the second voltage level is greater than a maximum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels, inserting, by the controller, the first energy storage device into the circuit in series with a high-voltage charger based on determining that the second voltage level is greater than the maximum threshold voltage level, causing, by the controller, the circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger, and causing, by the controller, the high-voltage charger to charge the first energy storage device.

[0073] In various such embodiments of the method, the method further includes determining, by the controller, a third voltage level of a third energy storage device, comparing, by the controller, the third voltage level to the set of threshold voltage levels, determining, by the controller, that the third voltage level is less than a minimum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels, and based on determining that the third voltage level is less than the minimum threshold voltage level, causing, by the controller, the circuit to electrically bypass the third energy storage device such that the third energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger.

[0074] In various such embodiments of the method, the method further includes causing, by the controller, a second low-voltage charger connected to the second energy storage device to discharge the second energy storage device until the second voltage level is less than the maximum threshold voltage level, or causing, by the controller, a third low-voltage charger connected to the third energy storage device to charge the third energy storage device until the third voltage level is greater than the minimum threshold voltage level.

[0075] In various such embodiments of the method, the method further includes inserting, by the controller, the second energy storage device into the circuit in series with the high-voltage charger based on a determination that the second voltage level is less than the maximum threshold voltage level, or inserting, by the controller, the third energy storage device into the circuit in series with the high-voltage charger based on a determination that the third voltage level is greater than the minimum threshold voltage level.

[0076] In various such embodiments of the method, inserting, by the controller, the first energy storage device into the circuit inserted in series with a high-voltage charger includes positioning a first connection circuit connected to the first energy storage device in a first connection position, and causing, by the controller, the circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device such that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger includes positioning a second connection circuit connected to the second energy storage device in a second bypass position.

[0077] In various such embodiments of the method, the first connection circuit includes a first contactor and the second connection circuit includes a second contactor.

[0078] In various other embodiments, the present disclosure also provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium having program instructions stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, cause a set of actions to be performed, the set of actions including determining a first voltage level of a first energy storage device, determining a second voltage level of a second energy storage device, comparing the first voltage level and the second voltage level to a set of threshold voltage levels, determining that the second voltage level is greater than a maximum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels, inserting the first energy storage device into a circuit in series with a high-voltage charger based on determining that the second voltage level is greater than the maximum threshold voltage level, and causing the circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger; and causing the high-voltage charger to charge the first energy storage device.

[0079] In various such embodiments of a non-transitory computer-readable medium having program instructions stored thereon, the program instructions, when executed by a processor, cause performance of a set of actions further comprising determining a third voltage level of a third energy storage device, comparing the third voltage level to the set of threshold voltage levels, determining that the third voltage level is less than a minimum threshold voltage level of the set of threshold voltage levels, and based on determining that the third voltage level is less than the minimum threshold voltage level, causing the circuit to electrically bypass the third energy storage device such that the third energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger.

[0080] In various such embodiments of a non-transitory computer-readable medium having program instructions stored thereon, the program instructions, when executed by a processor, cause performance of a set of actions, the set of actions further comprising causing a second low-voltage charger connected to the second energy storage device to discharge the second energy storage device until the second voltage level is less than a maximum threshold voltage level, or causing a third low-voltage charger connected to the third energy storage device to charge the third energy storage device until the third voltage level is greater than a minimum threshold voltage level.

[0081] In various such embodiments of a non-transitory computer-readable medium having program instructions stored thereon, the program instructions, when executed by a processor, cause performance of a set of actions further comprising, based on a determination that the second voltage level is less than the maximum threshold voltage level, inserting the second energy storage device into the circuit in series with the high-voltage charger, and based on a determination that the third voltage level is greater than the minimum threshold voltage level, inserting the third energy storage device into the circuit in series with the high-voltage charger.

[0082] In various such embodiments of a non-transitory computer-readable medium having program instructions stored thereon, the program instructions, when executed by a processor, cause performance of a set of actions, inserting the first energy storage device into the circuit in series with a high-voltage charger comprises positioning a first connection circuit connected to the first energy storage device in a first connection position, and causing the circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device such that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger comprises positioning a second connection circuit connected to the second energy storage device in a second bypass position.

[0083] Although various aspects and implementations have been disclosed herein, other aspects and implementations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and implementations disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not intended to be limiting, the true scope being indicated by the appended claims and the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In addition, the technical terms used herein are for the purpose of describing specific implementations only and are not intended to be limiting. The information provided in this section is for the purpose of presenting the background of the present disclosure in general. To the extent it is described in this section, the work of the presently named inventors, and aspects of the description that may otherwise not conform to the prior art at the time of submission, are neither explicitly nor implicitly admitted to be prior art that contradicts the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A system comprising: a circuit including a high voltage charger; a first energy storage device; a second energy storage device; as well as A controller configured to: inserting the first energy storage device into the circuit in series with the high-voltage charger; causing the circuit to electrically bypass the first energy storage device such that the first energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger; inserting the second energy storage device into the circuit in series with the high-voltage charger; causing the circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device such that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger; as well as The high-voltage charger is caused to charge the first energy storage device and the second energy storage device when connected in series with the high-voltage charger in the circuit.

2. The system according to claim 1, further comprising: a first low-voltage charger connected to the first energy storage device, wherein the controller is further configured to: When the first energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger, causing the first low-voltage charger to charge or discharge the first energy storage device; and a second low-voltage charger connected to the second energy storage device, wherein the controller is further configured to: When the second energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger, the second low-voltage charger is caused to charge or discharge the second energy storage device.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the first low-voltage charger is connected in series with the first energy storage device in isolation, and wherein the second low-voltage charger is connected in series with the second energy storage device in isolation.

4. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The first low-voltage charger, the second low-voltage charger, and the high-voltage charger are connected in parallel.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein: The controller is further configured to: The high-voltage charger is caused to charge or discharge the first and second low-voltage chargers while being connected in parallel with the high-voltage charger in the circuit.

6. The system according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein: The first low-voltage charger and the second low-voltage charger each include a bidirectional balancing charger.

7. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising: a first connection circuit, wherein inserting the first energy storage device into the circuit in series with the high-voltage charger comprises positioning the first connection circuit in a first connection position, and wherein causing the circuit to electrically bypass the first energy storage device such that the first energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger comprises positioning the first connection circuit in a first bypass position; as well as a second connection circuit, wherein inserting the second energy storage device into the circuit in series with the high-voltage charger comprises positioning the second connection circuit in a second connection position, and wherein causing the circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device such that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger comprises positioning the second connection circuit in a second bypass position.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein: The first connection circuit comprises a first contactor, and wherein the second connection circuit comprises a second contactor.

9. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The first energy storage device and the second energy storage device each include a lithium-ion battery.

10. A method comprising: determining, by the controller, a first voltage level of a first energy storage device of the circuit; determining, by the controller, a second voltage level of a second energy storage device of the circuit; comparing, by the controller, the first voltage level and the second voltage level to a set of threshold voltage levels; determining, by the controller, that the second voltage level is greater than a maximum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels; inserting, by the controller, the first energy storage device in the circuit in series with a high-voltage charger based on a determination that the second voltage level is greater than the maximum threshold voltage level, and causing, by the controller, the circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device such that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger; as well as The controller causes the high-voltage charger to charge the first energy storage device.

11. The method according to claim 10, further comprising: determining, by the controller, a third voltage level of a third energy storage device; comparing, by the controller, the third voltage level to the set of threshold voltage levels; determining, by the controller, that the third voltage level is less than a minimum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels; as well as Based on determining that the third voltage level is less than the minimum threshold voltage level, the controller causes the circuit to electrically bypass the third energy storage device such that the third energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger.

12. The method according to claim 11, further comprising: causing, by the controller, a second low-voltage charger connected to the second energy storage device to discharge the second energy storage device until the second voltage level is less than the maximum threshold voltage level; or A third low-voltage charger connected to the third energy storage device is caused by the controller to charge the third energy storage device until the third voltage level is greater than the minimum threshold voltage level.

13. The method according to claim 12, further comprising: inserting, by the controller, the second energy storage device into the circuit in series with the high-voltage charger based on a determination that the second voltage level is less than the maximum threshold voltage level; or Based on determining that the third voltage level is greater than the minimum threshold voltage level, the controller inserts the third energy storage device into the circuit in series with the high-voltage charger.

14. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein Inserting, by the controller, the first energy storage device into the circuit in series with a high-voltage charger includes positioning a first connection circuit connected to the first energy storage device in a first connection position, and wherein causing, by the controller, the circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device such that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger includes positioning a second connection circuit connected to the second energy storage device in a second bypass position.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein The first connection circuit comprises a first contactor, and wherein the second connection circuit comprises a second contactor.

16. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having program instructions stored thereon, the program instructions, when executed by a processor, causing a set of actions to be performed, the set of actions comprising: determining a first voltage level of a first energy storage device; determining a second voltage level of a second energy storage device; comparing the first voltage level and the second voltage level to a set of threshold voltage levels; determining that the second voltage level is greater than a maximum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels; inserting the first energy storage device into a circuit in series with a high-voltage charger based on determining that the second voltage level is greater than the maximum threshold voltage level, and causing the circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device such that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger; as well as The high-voltage charger is caused to charge the first energy storage device.

17. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 16, wherein: The set of actions also includes: determining a third voltage level of a third energy storage device; comparing the third voltage level to the set of threshold voltage levels; determining that the third voltage level is less than a minimum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels; and Based on determining that the third voltage level is less than the minimum threshold voltage level, causing the circuit to electrically bypass the third energy storage device such that the third energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger.

18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 17, wherein: The set of actions also includes: causing a second low-voltage charger connected to the second energy storage device to discharge the second energy storage device until the second voltage level is less than the maximum threshold voltage level; or A third low-voltage charger connected to the third energy storage device is caused to charge the third energy storage device until the third voltage level is greater than the minimum threshold voltage level.

19. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 18, wherein: The set of actions also includes: based on determining that the second voltage level is less than the maximum threshold voltage level, inserting the second energy storage device into the circuit in series with the high-voltage charger; and Based on determining that the third voltage level is greater than the minimum threshold voltage level, the third energy storage device is inserted into the circuit in series with the high-voltage charger.

20. The non-transitory computer-readable medium according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein: Inserting the first energy storage device into the circuit in series with a high-voltage charger includes positioning a first connection circuit connected to the first energy storage device in a first connection position, and wherein causing the circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high-voltage charger includes positioning a second connection circuit connected to the second energy storage device in a second bypass position.

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