System and method for managing battery charging

Abstract

Described herein are systems and methods for managing charging of a battery (106) of a work machine (102). Charging of the battery (106) is maintained using a power source (or other source) while the work machine (102) also uses the power source to power the work machine (102) and a system associated with the work machine (102). Where the power source may be removed for use by the work machine (102), a modification request may be used to change the battery (106) from a primary mode of operation (in which the charging of the battery (106) is maintained at a lower level to maintain the life of the battery (106)) to an auxiliary mode of operation (in which the battery (106) is charged to a high charge). When the battery (106) is removed from the power source, higher charging may be used to accommodate operation of the work machine (102). Thereafter, the battery (106) may return to the main mode of operation.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a system and method for managing a battery, and more particularly, to a system and method for managing battery charging in various modes based on availability of power through a cable. BACKGROUND

[0002] The type of work machine can vary depending on the use and location. For example, the work machine can be an excavator, haul truck, shovel, paver, etc. Conventionally, various machines are powered via an internal combustion power source (e.g., prime mover using diesel, natural gas, oil, etc.). However, with increasing concerns for sustainability, machines can additionally or alternatively include an electric power source, such as power supplied through one or more cables. The cable is a power conduit that electrically connects the power source to the power system of the work machine. The power transmitted through the cable can be provided by various power sources. The work machine uses the power from the power source to power various components, such as electric motors, on-board computers, etc.

[0003] When power provided through the cable is unavailable, the work machine can switch to using an on-board battery to supply power until the work machine reconnects to the power source. Typically, the batteries used by large machines at worksites and other locations are relatively more expensive (e.g., on a per kilowatt of available energy basis) than typical household or car batteries. The batteries of these work machines typically output a large amount of power to provide enough energy to move the work machine or operate its components. Since the cost of purchasing and replacing such work machine batteries is high, it can be beneficial to control the battery charge and output of the battery so that the discharge and charge cycles of the battery do not significantly shorten the life of the battery. Managing the amount of power available from the battery can extend the useful life of the battery when the source of power is unavailable.

[0004] One example of a battery charging system is described in U.S. Patent No. 7,7460,026 to Koziara et al. (hereinafter “the ‘026 patent”). The ‘026 patent describes a charging station for charging a vehicle at the charging station. The ‘026 patent describes an enhanced charging mode whereby the state of charge of the battery is increased at the charging station. The target of the state of charge is increased from a normal operating target to at least one enhanced mode target. However, the ‘026 patent is directed to a charging station for charging a vehicle while the vehicle is parked, or charging the vehicle using an internal combustion engine while the vehicle is moving. As such, the system described in the ‘026 patent is not configured to charge a vehicle that can not use an on-board generator to charge while driving, or can need to park the vehicle if there is no generator on the vehicle.

[0005] Examples of the present invention are directed to overcoming one or more of the deficiencies as described above. SUMMARY

[0006] In one aspect of the disclosure, a control system for managing a battery in a work machine includes one or more processors, and one or more non-transitory computer- readable media storing computer-executable instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform operations comprising: operating a power system of the work machine in a primary power source mode, wherein the power system operates the work machine using power from a power source, and a charge of the battery is maintained between a first setpoint and a second setpoint, wherein the second setpoint is greater than the first setpoint; receiving a modification request to change operation of the work machine from the primary power source mode to an auxiliary power source mode; in response to receiving the modification request, increasing an amount of power provided to the battery to charge the battery to a third setpoint of the charge, wherein the third setpoint is greater than the second setpoint; and operating the power system in the auxiliary power source mode, wherein the charge of the battery is maintained between the third setpoint and a fourth setpoint, wherein the fourth setpoint is less than the third setpoint.

[0007] In another aspect of the disclosure, a method of battery management includes: operating a power system of a work machine in a primary power source mode, wherein the power system operates the work machine using power from a power source when in the primary power source mode, and a charge of a battery is maintained between a first setpoint and a second setpoint, wherein the second setpoint is greater than the first setpoint; receiving a modification request to change operation of the work machine from the primary power source mode to an auxiliary power source mode; in response to receiving the modification request, increasing an amount of power provided to the battery to charge the battery to a third setpoint of the charge, wherein the third setpoint is greater than the second setpoint; and operating the power system in the auxiliary power source mode, wherein the charge of the battery is maintained between the third setpoint and a fourth setpoint, wherein the fourth setpoint is less than the third setpoint.

[0008] In yet another aspect of the disclosure, a work machine includes a battery and a control system for managing a charge of the battery, the control system including one or more processors, and one or more non-transitory computer-readable media storing computer- executable instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform operations comprising: operating a power system in a primary power source mode to operate the work machine using power, wherein the charge of the battery is maintained between a first setpoint and a second setpoint, the first setpoint being a low charge and the second setpoint being a high charge; receiving a modification request to change operation of the work machine from the primary power source mode to an auxiliary power source mode, wherein the battery is charged to a third setpoint, the third setpoint being a higher charge than the second setpoint; increasing an amount of power provided to the battery to charge the battery to the third setpoint, wherein the third setpoint is greater than the second setpoint; and maintaining the charge of the battery between the third setpoint and a fourth setpoint in the auxiliary power source mode, wherein the fourth setpoint is less than the third setpoint. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0009] The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which that reference number first appears.

[0010] Figure 1 An example worksite with a haul truck using electric power is illustrated in accordance with various examples of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0011] Figure 2 An example method for managing charging of a battery is illustrated in accordance with various examples of the presently disclosed subject matter.

[0012] Figure 3 A component level view of a battery charging control system using the systems and methods described herein is depicted in accordance with various examples of the presently disclosed subject matter. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] Where possible, the same reference numbers will be used in all drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

[0014] Figure 1 An example worksite 100 with a haul truck 102 using electric power is illustrated in schematic form in accordance with various examples of the presently disclosed subject matter. The haul truck 102 is a hybrid vehicle, meaning that the haul truck 102 and its various components can be powered by one or more prime movers, including an internal combustion engine 104, a battery 106, a fuel cell, and / or other prime movers, used individually or in combination. For example, when the haul truck 102 is powered by the internal combustion engine 104, the internal combustion engine 104 can power a generator (not shown) or other power generating components driven by the internal combustion engine 104, thereby providing electric power to various components, such as an electric motor 108, which when powered, rotates the wheels 110, thereby moving the haul truck 102. The presently disclosed subject matter is not limited to any particular type of internal combustion engine 104.

[0015] However, in some examples, the haul truck 102 can operate exclusively using electric power, and can not include an internal combustion engine 104. In these examples, the haul truck 102 can be connected to a power source 112 by one or more electrical wires, cables, wireless charging units, or other types of electrical cables 114. The electrical cables 114 can be composed of one or more power conduits having electrical cables capable of conducting electricity or supporting a voltage. The electrical cables 114 can be any type of connector (or connection technology, including wireless charging) capable of directing (or conducting) the electric power 111 provided by the power source 112 to the electric power system 116 of the haul truck 102. Types of power sources 112 include, but are not limited to, a power generator, a solar array, a power plant, or asFigure 1 A node from which power 111 is received, such as can be provided by a power company, is shown. Power 111 can be of various types, such as direct current (DC) as well as alternating current (AC), and can feature various voltages. The presently disclosed subject matter is not limited to any particular power source or type.

[0016] Power 111 is received by a power system 116 of the haul truck 102 via a cable 114. The power system 116 includes a control system 118, which in some configurations is one or more computing systems capable of receiving one or more inputs and providing one or more outputs, as exemplified below Figure 3 The control system 118 is configured to control the distribution of the received power 111 to various components of the haul truck 102 as determined by inputs received by an operator (not shown) of the haul truck 102. For example, upon receiving an input to perform a task, the control system 118 routes a portion of the power 111 to the electric motor 108 to move the haul truck 102. The control system 118 can further determine how much of the power 111 received from the power source 112 and / or generated by the internal combustion engine 104 (if installed) is directed to charging the battery 106. It should be noted that while the control system 118 is illustrated and described as a component of the haul truck 102, various functions of the control system 118 can be performed by a computer remote from the haul truck 102.

[0017] As described above, the charging of the battery 106 can be managed to extend the life of the battery 106. For example, discharging the battery 106 to a low charge level, such as 5% of the total charge potential of the battery, and / or charging the battery to a high charge level, such as 90% of the total charge potential of the battery, one or more times can reduce the life of the battery 106. Accordingly, the control system 118 includes a battery management module 120, which in some configurations is one or more computing systems or modules capable of receiving one or more inputs and providing one or more outputs. The battery management module 120 monitors and controls the charging of the battery 106. The battery management module 120 receives current charge data 122 from a charge sensor 123 of the battery 106. In some configurations, the charge sensor 123 is a voltmeter that detects the charge of the battery 106 and outputs the charge as the current charge data 122 to the battery management module 120. During a first type of operation, for example, normal or default operation, the battery management module 120 monitors the current charge data 122. If the charge of the battery 106 falls below a first set point, the battery management module 120 instructs the control system 118 to increase the charge of the battery 106, thus charging the battery 106. Similarly, if the charge of the battery 106 increases above a second set point, the battery management module 120 instructs the control system 118 to decrease the charge of the battery 106, thus decreasing or stopping the charging of the battery 106. The first set point can be a percentage of the charge of the battery above a low charge percentage set point, and the second set point can be a percentage of the charge of the battery below a high charge set point. Maintaining the charge of the battery 106 between the first set point and the second set point is the manner in which the battery management module 120 operates the battery 106 in the normal or primary power source mode of operation. Normal operation can be configured to have the greatest effect on extending the life of the battery 106.

[0018] However, in some instances, the battery 106 can need to operate in the second type of operation, e.g., high charge of the battery 106 can be needed to provide sufficient power for a period of time. High charge is achieved by entering an auxiliary power mode of the battery 106. For example, an operator of the haul truck 102 can determine that the haul truck 102 is to be removed from the power 111 provided through the cable 114. An example of this situation is when the haul truck 102 is moving from one location to another, where the cable 114 needs to be disconnected so that the haul truck 102 can complete the trip. The haul truck 102 can reattach to another cable at the other location, or if at the same location, the haul truck 102 can reattach to the cable 114. In another example, the operator can determine or be provided information that the power 111 will not be available, such as a shut down of the power 111. Another example can be that the battery 106 is to be used to provide additional power, whereby the current charge data 122 indicates that the battery 106 is not sufficiently charged to provide power. The presently disclosed subject matter is not limited to any particular reason to modify the operation of the battery 106 from normal operation to high charge operation.

[0019] To charge the battery 106 from a default operation to a high charge operation, the control system 118 receives a modification request 124. The modification request 124 can be a control input generated in response to activation of a button, touch screen input field, knob, lever, and / or other input control accessible to an operator on the haul truck 102. The modification request 124 can also be generated by an off-site management server 126 in response to activation of a mouse, keyboard, touch screen input field, or other similar input device associated with the off-site management server 126. The off-site management server 126 can be a computing platform controlled by a central management authority, such as a job site management office. In this example, the control system 118 (or personnel) associated with the haul truck 102 can determine that the battery 106 is to be switched from a primary power mode to an auxiliary power mode to charge the battery to a charge sufficient for a high charge level or operation by receiving the modification request 124. In the primary power mode, the battery 106 is maintained between a first set point and a second set point charge, whereby the second set point is greater than the first set point. In the primary power mode, for example, the charge of the battery 106 can be maintained within a range to extend the life of the battery 106. In the auxiliary power mode, the battery 106 is charged to a level above the second set point. In the primary power mode, power is primarily directed to operation of the haul truck with an amount of power used to maintain the charge of the battery 106. In the auxiliary power mode, an increased amount of power received on the haul truck is provided to the battery 106 to charge the battery 106 to a higher charge than maintained during the primary power mode. Upon receiving the modification request 124, the battery management module 120 instructs the control system 118 that the battery 106 is to enter the auxiliary power mode to reach a high charge level of the battery, whereby the battery 106 is charged to a third set point that is greater than the second set point. The control system 118 then increases the amount of power delivered to the battery 106 to charge the battery 106 to the third set point, which is the high charge set point.

[0020] Upon charging to the third set point, the battery management module 120 instructs the control system 118 to decrease the amount of power provided to the battery 106. In the high charge operation mode, the battery management module 120 monitors the current charge data 122. If the charge of the battery 106 drops to a fourth set point, which can be higher or lower than the second set point of the normal operation mode, and power 111 is available, the battery management module 120 instructs the control system 118 to increase the amount of power delivered to the battery 106 in order to charge the battery 106 back to the third set point. If power 111 is not available and the current charge data 122 indicates that the charge of the battery 106 has dropped to a lower charge level, such as the second set point of the normal operation, the battery management module 120 can automatically remove the battery 106 from the high charge operation mode and operate the battery 106 in the normal operation mode.

[0021] In some examples, the modification request 124 can include parameters 128. The parameters 128 can include information such as an expected power load while in the high charge operating mode, times when power 111 can not be available, etc. The battery management module 120 receives the parameters 128 and accesses the historical usage data store 130. The historical usage data store 130 includes information about the battery 106 that can be used to determine a third set point for the high charge operating mode. For example, the historical usage data store 130 can include information about the discharge rate of the battery 106 at one or more charge levels, the discharge rate of the battery for a particular operation of the haul truck 102, etc. When the battery management module 120 receives the parameters 128, the battery management module 120 can use the information stored in the historical usage data store 130 to determine a charge (e.g., the third set point) that the battery 106 is to receive in the high charge operating mode. In some examples, the parameters 128 can include charging information related to other job machines that can affect the charging of the battery 106. For example, the haul truck 102 can be one of several job machines that use the power 111 provided by the power source 112. The parameters 128 can include information that the haul truck 102 will lose access to the power 111 and that other job machines will also lose access. Thus, the parameters 128 can include information that causes the battery management module 120 to request a higher charging rate from the control system 118. For example, the default charging rate of the battery 106 can be more beneficial to reduce the impact of the charging operation on the battery 106.

[0022] However, if the battery 106 needs to be charged more quickly, the battery management module 120 instructs the control system 118 to charge the battery at a second, higher charging rate to reach the third set point charge of the battery 106 more quickly. This increased charging rate can allow the haul truck 102 to disconnect itself from the power 111 more quickly, thus allowing other job machines to charge and / or charge at a faster rate. The charging rate parameters 128 can also be used to prioritize charging of the haul truck 102. For example, if the haul truck 102 is the last to disconnect from the power 111, the battery 106 can be preferentially charged at a first rate while allowing other job machines using the same power 111 to charge at a higher rate. Once those other job machines are charged to a desired level, the parameters 128 can instruct the battery management module 120 to instruct the control system 118 to charge at the second, higher charging rate. The parameters 128 can be used to determine the operating mode of the battery 106 and the charging rate of the battery 106 as described in more detail below. Figure 2

[0023] Figure 2 ​A method 200 for managing charging of the battery 106 according to various examples described herein is illustrated. The method 200 and other processes described herein are illustrated in the form of example flowcharts, the operations of which can each represent a series of operations that can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination thereof. In the context of software, the operations represent computer-executable instructions stored on one or more tangible computer-readable storage media that, when executed by one or more processors, perform the recited operations. Generally, computer-executable instructions include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, and the like that perform particular functions or implement particular abstract data types. The order in which the operations are described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described operations can be combined in any order and / or in parallel to implement the processes. The processes illustrated herein can be performed by any of the processors / controllers described herein, but for ease of description, the control system 118 will be referred to unless otherwise specified.

[0024] The method 200 begins at step 202, where the control system 118 operates the battery 106 in a normal (mains power) mode using the battery management module 120. In the normal mode, the control system 118 manages the amount of power 111 applied to the battery 106 to charge the battery 106. In some examples, to prolong the life of the battery 106, the normal mode can include a low charge potential of approximately thirty percent (30%) and a high charge potential of approximately sixty percent (60%). It should be noted that these set points can vary depending on the particular battery. During the normal mode, the charge of the battery 106 is maintained between the low charge potential and the high charge potential.

[0025] At step 204, the control system 118 receives a modification request 124. The modification request 124 can be a control input received from an operator. The modification request 124 can also be an input received from an off-site management server 126. The off-site management server 126 can be a computing platform controlled by a central management authority, such as a worksite management office. The modification request 124 can result from various factors, such as an anticipated or projected loss of power 111. In another example, the haul truck 102 can be moving from one location to another, where the cable 114 needs to be disconnected in order for the haul truck 102 to complete the trip. In another example, an operator can determine or be provided information that the power 111 will not be available. Another example can be that the battery 106 is to be used to provide additional power, whereby the current charge data 122 indicates that the battery 106 is not sufficiently charged to provide power. The presently disclosed subject matter is not limited to any particular reason for the modification request 124.

[0026] At step 206, the control system 118 determines whether one or more parameters 128 are included or received with the modification request 124. In some examples, the modification request 124 is an input to change operation from the primary power source mode to the auxiliary power source. If parameters 128 are received, the parameters 128 are used to provide additional information to the control system 118, such as why the modification request 124 was received, how much power the battery will need to provide, etc. The parameters 128 can be additional data that the control system 118 uses to determine the charge rate of the battery 106. The parameters 128 can include information such as the expected power load in the high charge operation mode (i.e., how much energy the battery 106 will need), the time when power 111 can not be available (i.e., the battery will be disconnected from the power source), etc.

[0027] If at step 206, the control system 118 determines that the modification request 124 does not include one or more parameters 128 (step 206 - No), then at step 208, the control system 118 causes the battery 106 to operate in the high charge operation mode, whereby the battery 106 is charged to a higher potential than the normal operation mode. The control system 118 causes the battery 106 to be charged at a default rate.

[0028] At step 210, the battery 106 is charged to the high charge operation mode set point, and the control system 118 stops charging the battery. Thereafter, the control system 118 causes the battery 106 to revert back to the normal or default operation mode. In some examples, the control system 118 can maintain the battery 106 in the high charge operation mode until a condition is met, such as a loss of power 111.

[0029] If at step 206, the control system 118 determines that the modification request 124 does include one or more parameters 128 (step 206 - Yes), then at step 212, the control system 118 calculates a charge rate based on the parameters 128 and the minimum or required charge that the battery 106 can need to meet the requirements provided in the parameters 128. For example, the parameters 128 can include a distance or time that the haul truck 102 must travel. The parameters 128 can include information such as the expected power load while in the high charge operation mode, the time when power 111 can not be available, etc. As part of the calculation, the battery management module 120 can also access the historical usage data store 130 to determine the battery charge required for the same or similar parameters 128. The historical usage data store 130 includes battery data about the battery 106 that can be used to determine a third set point for the high charge operation mode. For example, the historical usage data store 130 can include information about the battery discharge rate for the battery charge, the battery discharge rate for a particular operation of the haul truck 102, etc.

[0030] At step 214, the control system 118 begins charging of the battery 106 based on the charge rate determined at step 212. At step 210, the battery 106 is charged to the high charge operating mode setpoint, and the control system 118 stops charging of the battery. Thereafter, the control system 118 returns the battery 106 to the normal (or default) operating mode. In some examples, the control system 118 can maintain the battery 106 in the high charge operating mode until a condition is met, such as a loss of power 111.

[0031] Figure 3 A component-level view of the control system 118 using the systems and methods described herein is depicted. The control system 118 can be any device capable of providing the functions associated with the systems and methods described herein. The control system 118 can include several components for performing the above-described functions. The control system 118 can be comprised of hardware, software, or various combinations thereof. As described below, the control system 118 can include a memory 302 including an operating system (OS) 304 and one or more standard applications 306. The standard applications 306 can include applications for receiving and determining battery information, such as the current charge data 122, which are used to implement the method 200 in FIG. 1. The memory 302 can also include other applications, such as the battery management module 120. Figure 2

[0032] The control system 118 can also include one or more processors 310 and one or more removable storage 312, non-removable storage 314, transceivers 316, output devices 318, and input devices 320. In various implementations, the memory 302 can be volatile (such as random access memory (RAM)), non-volatile (such as read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, etc.), or some combination of the two. The memory 302 can include data related to the battery 106, such as the historical usage data store 130.

[0033] The memory 302 can also include an OS 304. The OS 304 varies depending on the manufacturer of the control system 118. The OS 304 contains the modules and software that support the basic functions of the control system 118, such as scheduling tasks, executing applications, and controlling peripheral devices. The OS 304 can also enable the control system 118 to send and retrieve other data and perform other functions, such as sending control signals using the transceivers 316 and / or output devices 318, and receiving load conditions using the input devices 320.

[0034] ​The one or more processors 310 of the control system 118 can be one or more central processing units (CPUs), graphics processing units (GPUs), include both CPUs and GPUs, or any other combination and number of processing units. The control system 118 can also include additional data storage devices (removable and / or non-removable) such as, for example, magnetic disks, optical disks, or tape. Such additional storage is illustrated in FIG. 3 by the removable storage 312 and the non-removable storage 314. Figure 3

[0035] Non-transitory computer-readable media can include volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable tangible computer-readable media implemented in technology for storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. The memory 302, the removable storage 312, and the non-removable storage 314 are all examples of non-transitory computer-readable media. Non-transitory computer-readable media include, but are not limited to, RAM, ROM, electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technology, compact disc ROM (CD-ROM), digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tapes, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other tangible physical medium that can be used to store the desired information, which can be accessed by the control system 118. Any such non-transitory computer-readable media can be part of the control system 118, or can be a separate database, data repository, remote server, or cloud-based server.

[0036] In some implementations, the transceiver 316 includes any transceiver known in the art. In some examples, the transceiver 316 can include a wireless modem to facilitate wireless connections to other components (e.g., between the control system 118 and a wireless modem that is an internet gateway), the internet, and / or an intranet. In particular, the transceiver 316 can include one or more transceivers capable of enabling the control system 118 to send and receive data, such as modification requests 124 from the haul truck 102 or the off-site management server 126. Thus, the transceiver 316 can include multiple single-channel transceivers or multi-frequency multi-channel transceivers to enable the control system 118 to send and receive video calls, audio calls, messaging, etc. The transceiver 316 can enable the control system 118 to connect to multiple networks, including but not limited to 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, and Wi-Fi networks. The transceiver 316 can also include one or more transceivers capable of enabling the control system 118 to connect to future (e.g., 6G) networks, the Internet of Things (IoT), machine-to-machine (M2M), and other current and future networks.

[0037] The transceiver 316 can also include one or more transceivers capable of enabling the control system 118 to connect to other devices via antennas (e.g., Wi-Fi or Bluetooth®) and / or other wired connections (e.g., USB, Ethernet, etc.). ​) a wireless transceiver that performs transmit and receive radio frequency communication functions. In other examples, the transceiver 316 can include wired communication components, such as a wired modem or Ethernet port, for communicating via one or more wired networks. The transceiver 316 can enable the control system 118 to facilitate audio and video calls, download files, access web applications, and provide other communications associated with the systems and methods as described above.

[0038] In some implementations, the output device 318 includes any output device known in the art, such as a display (e.g., a liquid crystal or thin-film transistor (TFT) display), a touchscreen, a speaker, a vibrating mechanism, or a haptic feedback mechanism. Thus, the output device can include a screen or display. The output device 318 can also include a speaker or similar device to play sounds or ringtones when an audio or video call is received. The output device 318 can also include a port for one or more peripheral devices, such as headphones, a peripheral speaker, or a peripheral display.

[0039] In various implementations, the input device 320 includes any input device known in the art. For example, the input device 320 can include a video camera, a microphone, or a keyboard / keypad. In some examples, the input device can include an interface for an operator to generate the modification request 124. The input device 320 can include a touch-sensitive display or keyboard that enables a user to enter data, make requests, and receive responses via a web application (e.g., in a web browser), conduct audio and video calls, and use the standard applications 306, among others. The touch-sensitive display or keyboard / keypad can be a standard button alphanumeric multi-key keyboard (such as a conventional QWERTY keyboard), virtual controls on a touchscreen, or one or more other types of keys or buttons, and can also include a joystick, wheel, and / or designated navigation buttons, among others. The touch-sensitive display can function as both the input device 320 and the output device 318.

[0040] Industrial applicability

[0041] The present disclosure describes managing the battery 106 based on power availability. To extend the life of the battery 106, the charging of the battery 106 can be preferably maintained within a range, minimizing the effects of full discharge and full charge. When the work machine (such as a Figure 1When the battery 106 is connected to the power source 112 via the cable 114 (e.g., in a haul truck 102), the battery 106 can remain in a "trickle" charge, such as a normal operating mode. However, in the event that power 111 is expected to be lost, or the battery 106 is to be used to a degree that the current charge cannot satisfy, the battery 106 can be placed in a high charge operating mode. In the high charge operating mode, the battery 106 is charged to a higher potential than in the normal operating mode. The control system 118 can determine the rate of charge based on various parameters 128 received with the modification request 124. Using the methods and techniques described herein can provide for increased life of the battery 106, while also providing sufficient power from the battery 106 if needed.

[0042] Although the discussion of the system and method is in the context of a haul truck 102, the system and method discussed herein can be applied to various machines and vehicles in various industries, such as construction, mining, agriculture, transportation, military, or combinations thereof, among others. For example, the system or method discussed herein can be implemented in any wheeled vehicle, machine, or equipment, such as a combine harvester.

[0043] While the above invention has been described with respect to specific examples, the scope of the invention is not limited to these specific examples. Since other modifications and changes varied to specific operating requirements and environments will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the invention is not considered limited to the example chosen for purposes of disclosure, but is to cover all changes and modifications that do not constitute departures from the true spirit and scope of this invention.

[0044] While the present invention has been described with respect to embodiments having specific structural features and / or method acts, the claims are not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are merely illustrative of particular embodiments. Some embodiments fall within the scope of the claims, regardless of whether the corresponding features or acts are described in the specification.

Claims

1. A control system (118) for managing a battery (106) in a work machine (102), the system comprising: one or more processors (310); as well as One or more non-transitory computer-readable media storing computer-executable instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors (310), cause the one or more processors (310) to perform operations including: operating a power system (116) of the work machine (102) in a primary power mode, wherein the power system (116) uses power (111) from a power source (112) to operate the work machine (102), and a charge of the battery (106) is maintained between a first set point and a second set point, wherein the second set point is greater than the first set point; receiving a modification request to change operation of the work machine (102) from the primary power mode to the auxiliary power mode; In response to receiving the modification request, increasing the amount of power (111) provided to the battery (106) to charge the battery (106) to a third set point of charge, wherein the third set point is greater than the second set point; as well as The power system (116) is operated in the auxiliary power mode, wherein the charge of the battery (106) is maintained between the third set point and a fourth set point, wherein the fourth set point is less than the third set point.

2. The control system (118) of claim 1, wherein the operations further comprise: calculating a charge rate associated with the battery (106) based on parameters (128) associated with the modification request and the charge of the battery (106) when the modification request is received; as well as An amount of power (111) is added to the battery (106) to charge the battery (106) at the charge rate.

3. The control system (118) of claim 2, wherein calculating the charge rate includes accessing a historical usage data store (130) based on the parameter (128) to retrieve the battery charge required to meet the parameter (128), wherein the parameter (128) is a travel time or distance of the work machine (102), the travel time or distance required for the battery (106) to serve as a power source for the work machine (102).

4. The control system (118) of claim 3, wherein the historical usage data store (130) includes battery data of a discharge rate of the battery (106) while the battery (106) is being charged when the modification request is received, and the parameter (128).

5. The control system (118) of claim 3, wherein the operations further comprise: Receive the second parameter (128); calculating a second charging rate based on a second parameter (128); as well as The battery (106) is charged at the second charge rate.

6. The control system (118) of claim 1, wherein the operations further comprise: receiving a second modification request to cause the work machine (102) to operate in the primary power mode; as well as ceasing to maintain the charging of the battery (106) within the third set point and the fourth set point; as well as The charge of the battery (106) is maintained between the first set point and the second set point.

7. The control system (118) of claim 6, wherein the second modification request is received based on an input, the input being reconnection of the work machine (102) to the power source (112) or a second power source (112).

8. A working machine (102), comprising: Battery (106); as well as A control system (118) for managing the charging of the battery (106), the control system (118) comprising: one or more processors (310); and One or more non-transitory computer-readable media storing computer-executable instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors (310), cause the one or more processors (310) to perform operations including: operating a power system (116) in a primary power mode to operate the work machine (102) using electrical power (111), wherein a charge of the battery (106) is maintained between a first set point and a second set point, the first set point being a low charge and the second set point being a high charge; receiving a modification request to change operation of the work machine (102) from the primary power mode to an auxiliary power mode, wherein the battery (106) is charged to a third set point, the third set point being a higher charge than the second set point; increasing the amount of power (111) provided to the battery (106) to charge the battery (106) to the third set point, wherein the third set point is greater than the second set point; and The charge of the battery (106) is maintained between the third set point and a fourth set point in an auxiliary power mode, wherein the fourth set point is less than the third set point.

9. The work machine (102) of claim 8, the operations further comprising: calculating a charge rate associated with the battery (106) based on parameters (128) associated with the modification request and the charge of the battery (106) when the modification request is received; as well as wherein the amount of power (111) added to the battery (106) to charge the battery (106) is based on the calculated charge rate.

10. The work machine (102) of claim 9, wherein the operation of calculating the charge includes accessing a historical usage data store (130) based on the parameter (128) to retrieve the charge required to meet the parameter (128), wherein the parameter (128) is a travel time or distance of the work machine (102), the time or distance required for the battery (106) to serve as a power source for the work machine (102).

11. The work machine (102) of claim 10, wherein the historical usage data store (130) includes battery data of a discharge rate of the battery (106) during the charging of the battery (106) and the parameter (128) when the modification request is received.

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