Electronic device and battery module

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides electronic equipment and a battery module, and relates to the technical field of batteries. The battery module comprises a first battery module, a second battery module and a first switch module. The first battery module comprises a first battery cell unit and a second battery cell unit which are connected in series, and the second battery module comprises a third battery cell unit and a fourth battery cell unit which are connected in series. The first switch module is electrically connected with the first battery module and the second battery module, and the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in series or in parallel through the first switch module. And when the battery modules are in a charging state, the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in series through the first switch module or are switched between series connection and parallel connection through the first switch module. And when the battery modules are in a discharging state, the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in parallel through the first switch module. According to the arrangement, the charging efficiency and the discharging efficiency of the battery module are improved, and the charging speed can also be improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of this application provide an electronic device and a battery module, relating to the technical field of batteries. Background Technology

[0002] Electronic devices include a battery and a load. The battery is electrically connected to the load and can supply power to the load. In related technologies, batteries suffer from technical problems such as low charging efficiency, low discharging efficiency, and slow charging speed. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Embodiments of this application provide an electronic device and a battery module for improving the charging efficiency and discharging efficiency of a battery, and also for increasing the charging speed of the battery.

[0004] On one hand, embodiments of this application provide an electronic device. The electronic device includes a battery module. The battery module includes a first battery module, a second battery module, and a first switch module. The first battery module includes a first battery cell and a second battery cell connected in series, with the cathode of the first battery cell electrically connected to the anode of the second battery cell. The second battery module includes a third battery cell and a fourth battery cell connected in series, with the cathode of the third battery cell electrically connected to the anode of the fourth battery cell. The first switch module is electrically connected to the first battery module and the second battery module. The first battery module and the second battery module are connected in series or in parallel through the first switch module. When the battery module is in a charging state, the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in series through the first switch module; or, when the battery module is in a charging state, the first battery module and the second battery module switch between series and parallel connection through the first switch module. When the battery module is in a discharging state, the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in parallel through the first switch module.

[0005] In the embodiments of this application, the first battery module includes a first battery cell unit and a second battery cell unit connected in series, and the second battery module includes a third battery cell unit and a fourth battery cell unit connected in series. This increases the number of battery cell units in the battery module and increases the typical voltage of the battery module. Understandably, with the output current of the battery module remaining constant, the power of the battery module can be doubled.

[0006] Furthermore, the first switch module is electrically connected to the first and second battery modules. By controlling the switching unit in the first switch module to turn on or off, the first and second battery modules can be connected in series or in parallel. In this way, the electrical connection method of the first and second battery modules can be controlled according to the state of the battery modules (charging or discharging).

[0007] When the battery module is charging, the first and second battery modules can switch between series or parallel connection, or they can be connected in series. In other words, the first and second battery modules must be connected in series at least when the battery module is charging. Compared to connecting the first and second battery modules in parallel, this increases the typical voltage of the battery module, improves charging efficiency, reduces heat generation, and enhances the user experience. Furthermore, with a fixed heat generation, the charging power can be increased, thereby improving the charging speed.

[0008] When the battery module is discharging, the first battery module and the second battery can be connected in parallel. Compared to connecting the first and second battery modules in series, this reduces the typical voltage of the battery module, improves discharge efficiency, and increases the battery module's battery life and power supply reliability. Furthermore, components electrically connected to the battery module (such as the discharge module) do not need to be high-voltage resistant, reducing the cost of the electronic device.

[0009] In other words, by setting a first switch module, the embodiments of this application can realize the series charging and parallel discharging of the first battery module and the second battery module, thereby improving the charging efficiency and discharging efficiency of the battery module, reducing heat generation, increasing the charging speed of the battery module, and improving the battery module's battery life and power supply reliability.

[0010] In some possible implementations, the electronic device also includes a charging module and a discharging module. The input of the charging module is electrically connected to the power supply, and the output of the charging module is electrically connected to the inputs of the battery module and the discharging module. The output of the discharging module is electrically connected to the load. When the battery module is charging, the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in series through a first switching module. This configuration allows control of the voltage and current between the power supply, the battery module, and the load by controlling the output voltage and current of the charging module, ensuring the battery module charges as expected and improving the reliability of the power supply charging the battery module. Furthermore, connecting the first and second battery modules in series through the first switching module when the battery module is charging increases the typical voltage of the battery module compared to connecting them in parallel, improving charging efficiency, reducing heat generation, and enhancing the user experience. Moreover, with a fixed amount of heat generation, the charging power can be increased, thereby increasing the charging speed.

[0011] In some possible implementations, the discharge module includes a discharge buck unit and a bypass unit. The input terminal of the discharge buck unit is electrically connected to the output terminal of the charging module, and the output terminal of the discharge buck unit is electrically connected to the load. The first connection terminal of the bypass unit is electrically connected to the input terminal of the discharge buck unit, and the second connection terminal of the bypass unit is electrically connected to the output terminal of the discharge buck unit. When the battery module is charging, the discharge buck unit is turned on, and the bypass unit is turned off. When the battery module is discharging, the discharge buck unit is turned off, and the bypass unit is turned on. This configuration allows the discharge module to have both buck mode and bypass direct-through mode. Controlling the discharge module to switch between buck mode and bypass direct-through mode ensures that the supply voltage to the load remains stable when the battery module is charging and discharging, improving the reliability of the discharge module supplying power to the load.

[0012] In some possible implementations, the electronic device also includes a motherboard. The battery module is electrically connected to the motherboard. The battery module also includes a battery protection board, which is electrically connected to the first battery module and the second battery module. A charging module is mounted on the motherboard or the battery protection board. A discharging module is mounted on the motherboard or the battery protection board. This arrangement allows the charging module to be electrically connected to the discharging module and the battery module, and also allows the discharging module to be electrically connected to the load, improving the flexibility of the charging and discharging module configuration.

[0013] In some possible implementations, the electronic device also includes a charging module. The input terminal of the charging module is electrically connected to a power supply. One of the anodes of the first and third battery cells is electrically connected to the output terminal of the charging module, and the other is electrically connected to a load. When the battery module is charging and the voltage difference between the first and second battery modules is less than a set voltage threshold, the first and second battery modules are connected in series via a first switching module. When the battery module is charging and the voltage difference between the first and second battery modules is greater than or equal to a set voltage threshold, the first and second battery modules are connected in parallel via the first switching module. This configuration improves the charging efficiency and shortens the charging time of the battery module while reducing the risk of excessive voltage difference (e.g., greater than or equal to a set voltage threshold) between the first and second battery modules. This reduces the impact of the voltage difference between the first and second battery modules on the discharge efficiency and lifespan of the battery module, thus improving the power supply reliability of the battery module. Furthermore, this design ensures that the voltage supplied to the load by the power supply when the battery module is charging is approximately equal to the voltage supplied to the load by the battery module when the battery module is discharging. This eliminates the need for a discharge module to step down the voltage supplied to the load by the power supply, thus simplifying the structure of the electronic device.

[0014] In some possible implementations, the electronic device also includes a motherboard, to which the battery module is electrically connected. The battery module also includes a battery protection board, which is electrically connected to both the first and second battery modules. The charging module is mounted on either the motherboard or the battery protection board. This configuration allows the charging module to be electrically connected to both the discharging module and the battery module, improving the flexibility of the charging module's configuration.

[0015] In some possible implementations, the charging module includes a charging unit. The input of the charging unit is electrically connected to the power supply, and the output of the charging unit is electrically connected to the battery module and the load. Understandably, by controlling the output voltage and current of the charging unit, the voltage and current between the power supply, the battery module, and the load can be controlled, enabling the battery module to charge as expected and improving the reliability of the power supply charging the battery module.

[0016] In some possible implementations, the charging module also includes an overvoltage protection unit. The input of the overvoltage protection unit is electrically connected to the power supply, and the output of the overvoltage protection unit is electrically connected to the input of the charging unit. This configuration allows the overvoltage protection unit to protect the charging unit.

[0017] In some possible implementations, the electronic device also includes a fuel gauge electrically connected to the battery module. This configuration allows for the detection of the current and voltage of the battery module, improving the reliability of the battery module during charging and discharging.

[0018] In some possible implementations, the electronic device further includes a second switch module electrically connected to the battery module and the fuel gauge. When the first and second battery modules are connected in series, the second switch module electrically connects the fuel gauge to both the first and second battery modules. When the first and second battery modules are connected in parallel, the second switch module electrically connects the fuel gauge to either the first or second battery module. This configuration allows control over the electrical connection between the fuel gauge and the battery modules (first and second battery modules), ensuring that the fuel gauge can detect both the current and voltage of the battery modules regardless of whether they are connected in series or parallel. This eliminates the need for multiple fuel gauges, simplifying the structure of the electronic device and reducing its cost.

[0019] In some possible implementations, when the first and second battery modules are connected in parallel, the second switching module electrically connects the fuel gauge to the second battery module. The fuel gauge includes a second pin, a third pin, a fourth pin, and a fifth pin. The second switching module includes a first switching transistor, a second switching transistor, a third switching transistor, and a fourth switching transistor. The first connection terminal of the first switching transistor is electrically connected to the anode of the first battery cell, and the second connection terminal of the first switching transistor is electrically connected to the fifth pin and the first connection terminal of the third switching transistor. The first connection terminal of the second switching transistor is electrically connected to the cathode of the first battery cell and the anode of the second battery cell, and the second connection terminal of the second switching transistor is electrically connected to the fourth pin, the second connection terminal of the third switching transistor, and the first connection terminal of the fourth switching transistor. The second connection terminal of the fourth switching transistor is electrically connected to the anode and the third pin of the third battery cell. The second pin is electrically connected to the cathode of the third battery cell and the anode of the fourth battery cell. This configuration, by controlling the on / off state of the first, second, third, and fourth switching transistors, can control the electrical connection between the fuel gauge and the first and second battery modules. This allows the fuel gauge to detect the voltage across the battery modules when the first and second battery modules are connected in series or in parallel, eliminating the need for multiple fuel gauges, simplifying the structure of the electronic device, and reducing its cost.

[0020] In some possible implementations, the electronic device also includes a motherboard. The battery module is electrically connected to the motherboard. The battery module also includes a battery protection board, which is electrically connected to the first battery module and the second battery module. A fuel gauge is mounted on the motherboard or the battery protection board; a second switch module is also mounted on the motherboard or the battery protection board. This configuration allows the fuel gauge to be electrically connected to the battery module, and the second switch module to be electrically connected to the fuel gauge. Furthermore, it improves the flexibility of the fuel gauge and the second switch module configuration.

[0021] In some possible implementations, the first switch module includes a first switch unit, a second switch unit, and a third switch unit. When the second switch unit is on and the first and third switch units are off, the first and second battery modules are connected in series. When the first and third switch units are on and the second switch unit is off, the first and second battery modules are connected in parallel. With this configuration, by controlling the on / off state of the first, second, and third switch units, the series or parallel connection of the first and second battery modules can be controlled.

[0022] In some possible implementations, a first switching unit is connected between the anode of the first battery cell and the anode of the third battery cell. A second switching unit is connected between the anode of the first battery cell and the cathode of the fourth battery cell. A third switching unit is connected between the cathode of the second battery cell and the cathode of the fourth battery cell. This configuration allows the first and second battery modules to be connected in series via the first switching module when the second switching unit is on and the first and third switching units are off, and also allows the first and second battery modules to be connected in parallel via the first switching module when the first and third switching units are on and the second switching unit is off.

[0023] In some possible implementations, a first switching unit is connected between the anode of the first battery cell and the anode of the third battery cell. A second switching unit is connected between the cathode of the second battery cell and the anode of the third battery cell. The cathode of the third battery cell is grounded through the third switching unit, and the cathode of the fourth battery cell is grounded. This configuration allows the first and second battery modules to be connected in series through the first switching module when the second switching unit is on and the first and third switching units are off, and also allows the first and second battery modules to be connected in parallel through the first switching module when the first and third switching units are on and the second switching unit is off.

[0024] In some possible implementations, the first switching module further includes a fourth switching unit. One end of the fourth switching unit is electrically connected to the cathode of the first battery cell and the anode of the second battery cell, and the other end of the fourth switching unit is electrically connected to the cathode of the third battery cell and the anode of the fourth battery cell. When the first, third, and fourth switching units are on and the second switching unit is off, the first and third battery cells are connected in parallel, and the second and fourth battery cells are also connected in parallel. This configuration allows the first and third battery cells to be connected in parallel, reducing the voltage difference between them. It also allows the second and fourth battery cells to be connected in parallel, further reducing the voltage difference between them. This reduces the impact of the voltage difference between the battery cells on the battery module's discharge efficiency, thereby improving the battery module's lifespan.

[0025] In some possible implementations, the electronic device also includes a motherboard. The battery module is electrically connected to the motherboard. The battery module also includes a battery protection board, which is electrically connected to the first battery module and the second battery module. A first switch module is mounted on the motherboard or the battery protection board. This configuration allows the first switch module to be electrically connected to the first and second battery modules and improves the flexibility of its configuration.

[0026] In some possible implementations, the electronic device further includes a controller electrically connected to the first switching module. The controller controls the first switching module to connect the first battery module in series or in parallel. The controller is mounted on a motherboard or a battery protection board. Understandably, electrically connecting the controller to the first switching module enables the controller to control the series or parallel connection of the first and second battery modules. Mounting the controller on the motherboard 205 or the battery protection board allows for electrical connection to the first switching module and improves the controller's configuration flexibility.

[0027] On the other hand, embodiments of this application provide a battery module. The battery module includes a first battery module, a second battery module, and a first switch module. The first battery module includes a first battery cell and a second battery cell connected in series, with the cathode of the first battery cell electrically connected to the anode of the second battery cell. The second battery module includes a third battery cell and a fourth battery cell connected in series, with the cathode of the third battery cell electrically connected to the anode of the fourth battery cell. The first switch module is electrically connected to the first battery module and the second battery module. The first battery module and the second battery module are connected in series or in parallel through the first switch module. When the battery module is in a charging state, the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in series through the first switch module; or, the first battery module and the second battery module switch between series and parallel connection through the first switch module. When the battery module is in a discharging state, the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in parallel through the first switch module.

[0028] The first battery module includes a first and a second battery cell unit connected in series, and the second battery module includes a third and a fourth battery cell unit connected in series. This increases the number of battery cells in the battery module and thus increases the typical voltage of the battery module. Understandably, with the output current of the battery module remaining constant, the power of the battery module can be doubled.

[0029] Furthermore, the first switch module is electrically connected to the first and second battery modules. By controlling the switching unit in the first switch module to turn on or off, the first and second battery modules can be connected in series or in parallel. In this way, the electrical connection method of the first and second battery modules can be controlled according to the state of the battery modules (charging or discharging).

[0030] When the battery module is charging, the first and second battery modules can switch between series or parallel connection, or they can be connected in series. That is, when the battery module is charging, the first and second battery modules can at least be connected in series. Compared to parallel connection, connecting the first and second battery modules in series increases the typical voltage of the battery module, improves charging efficiency, reduces heat generation, and enhances the user experience. Furthermore, with a fixed heat generation, the charging power can be increased, thereby improving the charging speed.

[0031] When the battery module is discharging, the first battery module and the second battery can be connected in parallel. Compared to connecting the first and second battery modules in series, connecting them in parallel reduces the typical voltage of the battery module, improves discharge efficiency, and increases battery life and power supply reliability. Furthermore, components electrically connected to the battery module (such as the discharge module) do not need to be high-voltage resistant, reducing the cost of the electronic device.

[0032] In other words, by setting a first switch module, the embodiments of this application can realize the series charging and parallel discharging of the first battery module and the second battery module, thereby improving the charging efficiency and discharging efficiency of the battery module, reducing heat generation, increasing the charging speed of the battery module, and improving the battery module's battery life and power supply reliability.

[0033] On another front, embodiments of this application provide a control method for a battery module. The control method includes: when the battery module is in a charging state, a first battery module and a second battery module are connected in series via a first switching module; or, the first battery module and the second battery module are switched between series and parallel connection via the first switching module. When the battery module is in a discharging state, the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in parallel via the first switching module. It is understood that when the battery module is in a charging state, the first battery module and the second battery module can at least be connected in series. Compared to connecting the first battery module and the second battery module in parallel, this increases the typical voltage of the battery module, improves charging efficiency, reduces heat generation, and improves the user experience. Furthermore, under the same heat generation conditions, the charging power can be increased, thereby improving the charging speed. When the battery module is in a discharging state, the first battery module and the second battery module can be connected in parallel. Compared to connecting the first battery module and the second battery module in series, this reduces the typical voltage of the battery module, improves discharging efficiency, increases the battery module's battery life, and enhances power supply reliability. Furthermore, components electrically connected to the battery module (e.g., the discharge module) do not need to be high-voltage resistant components, reducing the cost of the electronic device. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Figure 1Schematic diagrams of the structure of electronic devices provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0035] Figure 2 for Figure 1 An exploded view of the provided electronic equipment;

[0036] Figure 3 Schematic block diagrams of the structure of electronic devices provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0037] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the circuit topology of a battery module provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0038] Figure 5 A circuit topology diagram of a battery module provided for other embodiments of this application;

[0039] Figure 6 Schematic block diagrams of the structure of electronic devices provided in other embodiments of this application;

[0040] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the circuit topology of an electronic device provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0041] Figure 8 Schematic block diagrams of the structure of an electronic device provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0042] Figure 9 Circuit topology diagrams of electronic devices provided in other embodiments of this application;

[0043] Figure 10 Schematic block diagrams of the structure of an electronic device provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0044] Figure 11 A circuit topology diagram of an electronic device provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0045] Figure 12 A circuit topology diagram of an electronic device provided for some embodiments of this application;

[0046] Figure 13 A circuit topology diagram of an electronic device provided in some embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0047] The technical solutions in some embodiments of this disclosure will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this disclosure, and not all embodiments. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments provided in this disclosure are within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0048] Unless the context otherwise requires, throughout the specification and claims, the term "comprising" is interpreted as open-ended and encompassing, meaning "including, but not limited to." In the description of the specification, terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "exemplary embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., are intended to indicate that a particular feature, structure, material, or characteristic associated with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this disclosure. The illustrative representations of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic may be included in any suitable manner in any one or more embodiments or examples.

[0049] Hereinafter, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of embodiments of this disclosure, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0050] In describing some embodiments, the term "electrical connection" and its derivative expressions may be used. The term "electrical connection" should be interpreted broadly; for example, "electrical connection" can refer to a direct electrical connection or an indirect electrical connection through other devices.

[0051] As used herein, “equal” includes the described situation and situations that are similar to the described situation, within an acceptable range of deviation, which is determined by those skilled in the art taking into account the measurement under discussion and the error associated with the measurement of the particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system). For example, “equal” includes absolute equality and approximate equality, wherein an acceptable range of deviation for approximate equality may be, for example, a difference between the two equal entities being less than or equal to 5% of either one.

[0052] Figure 1 The diagram shows the structure of an electronic device provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 2 for Figure 1 An exploded diagram of the provided electronic equipment. Figure 3 The diagram shows the structure of an electronic device provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0053] This application provides an electronic device 200. The electronic device 200 can be a mobile portable terminal device, such as a mobile phone, tablet computer, laptop computer, smart bracelet, smartwatch, etc. This application does not further limit the type of electronic device 200. The structure of the electronic device 200 will be illustrated below using a tablet computer as an example.

[0054] For example, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the electronic device 200 includes a housing 201, which includes a middle frame 2012 and a rear shell 2013. The middle frame 2012 includes a side frame 2012a and a middle plate 2012b. The side frame 2012a surrounds and is connected to the middle plate 2012b. The middle plate 2012b can be a flat plate-like structure, serving as the skeleton of the electronic device 200 and providing support. The rear shell 2013 is connected to one edge of the side frame 2012a. The electronic device 200 also includes a display panel 202, which is connected to the edge of the side frame 2012a away from the rear shell 2013.

[0055] In some examples, electronic device 200 includes battery module 100 and load 203, with battery module 100 electrically connected to load 203 for supplying power to load 203.

[0056] Understandably, both the battery module 100 and the load 203 are located within the receiving space enclosed by the housing 201. In some examples, the battery module 100 and the load 203 may be located in the same location within the receiving space, for example, both the battery module 100 and the load 203 may be located within the receiving space enclosed by the display panel 202 and the middle plate 2012b, or both the battery module 100 and the load 203 may be located within the receiving space enclosed by the rear housing 2013 and the middle plate 2012b.

[0057] In other examples, the battery module 100 and the load 203 may also be located in different positions within the housing space. For example, one of the battery module 100 and the load 203 may be located within the housing space enclosed by the display panel 202 and the middle plate 2012b, while the other may be located within the housing space enclosed by the rear shell 2013 and the middle plate 2012b. The embodiments of this application do not further limit the placement of the battery module 100 and the load 203 within the housing 201.

[0058] For example, the battery module 100 can be a lithium battery, capable of charging and discharging. The load 203 can be a processor, such as a central processing unit (CPU) or a graphics processing unit (GPU). Alternatively, the load 203 can be other components, such as a memory module. Or, the load 203 can be a functional component, such as a camera assembly or a display panel 202. There can be one or more loads 203, and the types of loads 203 can be the same or different. The embodiments of this application do not further limit the type of load 203. The battery module 100 can be electrically connected to multiple loads 203, supplying power to the multiple loads 203, thereby enabling the electronic device 200 to operate normally.

[0059] In some examples, such as Figure 2 As shown, the electronic device 200 includes a motherboard 205, which can be a printed circuit board (PCB). The battery module 100 is electrically connected to the motherboard 205, and the load 203 is also electrically connected to the motherboard 205. The battery module 100 supplies power to the load 203 through the motherboard 205.

[0060] In some examples, such as Figure 3 As shown, the electronic device 200 includes a charging module 210, which is connected between the power supply Vin and the battery module 100.

[0061] Understandably, when the charging module 210 is operating, it provides the battery module 100 with the required voltage and current, and the battery module 100 is in a charging state. Furthermore, the charging module 210 can supply power to the load 203 during operation, enabling the load 203 to function normally. Understandably, when the energy provided by the charging module 210 to the load 203 is insufficient to meet the operating requirements of the load 203, the battery module 100 can discharge, at which point the charging module 210 and the battery module 100 jointly supply power to the load 203.

[0062] When the charging module 210 stops working, it stops charging the battery module 100, and the battery module 100 is in a discharging state. The battery module 100 supplies power to the load 203, enabling the load 203 to work normally.

[0063] In some examples, such as Figure 3As shown, the electronic device 200 also includes a controller 204. The controller 204 can be an embedded controller (EC) or a microcontroller unit (MCU), etc. The controller 204 is electrically connected to the charging module 210 to control the output voltage and current of the charging module 210, enabling the charging module 210 to provide the required voltage and current to the battery module 100. For example, the GPIO1 interface of the controller 204 is electrically connected to the charging module 210.

[0064] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit topology of a battery module provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 5 The circuit topology diagram of the battery module provided for other embodiments of this application is shown.

[0065] Fast charging capability is one of the core demands of consumers for the battery (battery module 100). To improve charging speed, charging power is increasing, leading to increasingly severe overheating of the charging module 210. This overheating of the charging module 210 restricts further increases in charging power, thus affecting charging speed.

[0066] The battery module 100 includes battery cells. For example, the charging cut-off voltage (output voltage when fully charged) of the battery cell can be 4.4V. Alternatively, the charging cut-off voltage of the battery cell can also be 4.43V, 4.45V, or 4.48V, etc. The embodiments of this application do not further limit the value of the charging cut-off voltage of the battery cell. The typical voltage of the battery cell is the voltage of the battery cell at a certain charge level (e.g., 50% charge), which is less than the charging cut-off voltage of the battery cell. For example, the typical voltage of the battery cell can be 4V.

[0067] In some possible cases, such as Figure 4 As shown, the battery module 100 includes a first battery cell 1111 and a second battery cell 1112 connected in series. The typical voltage of the battery module 100 is approximately 8V. The charging module 210 steps down the voltage (e.g., 20V) from the power supply Vin to approximately 8V before supplying it to the battery module 100. This results in low energy utilization, low charging efficiency, and high heat generation, negatively impacting user experience and limiting the increase in charging power, thus affecting charging speed.

[0068] In some cases, increasing the number of battery cells can reduce heat generation in the charging module 210 and improve charging efficiency. For example, as... Figure 5As shown, the battery module 100 includes a first cell 1111, a second cell 1112, a third cell 1113, and a fourth cell 1114 connected in series. The typical voltage of the battery module 100 is approximately 16V. The charging module 210 steps down the voltage (e.g., 20V) from the power supply Vin to approximately 16V before supplying it to the battery module 100.

[0069] Therefore, increasing the number of battery cells can improve energy utilization during charging, thereby increasing charging efficiency, reducing heat generation in the charging module 210, and enhancing the user experience. Furthermore, with a fixed heat generation, the charging power can be increased, thus improving charging speed.

[0070] Understandably, the typical voltage of battery module 100 when it includes a first cell 1111 and a second cell 1112 connected in series is lower than the typical voltage of battery module 100 when it includes a first cell 1111, a second cell 1112, a third cell 1113, and a fourth cell 1114 connected in series. When battery module 100 supplies power to load 203, the step-down component (not shown) of electronic device 200 needs to step down the voltage provided by battery module 100 to the operating voltage of load 203 before supplying it to load 203.

[0071] Therefore, increasing the number of battery cells leads to a rise in the typical voltage of battery module 100, affecting its discharge efficiency. Furthermore, it also impacts the battery module 100's battery life and power supply reliability. In addition, the increased typical voltage of battery module 100 necessitates that components electrically connected to battery module 100 (such as discharge module 220) be made high-voltage resistant, increasing the cost of electronic device 200.

[0072] Figure 6 Schematic block diagrams of the structure of electronic devices provided in other embodiments of this application. Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit topology of an electronic device provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 8 This is a schematic block diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 9 The diagram illustrates the circuit topology of an electronic device provided in other embodiments of this application. It will be understood that... Figure 6 and Figure 7 ,and Figure 8 and Figure 9 The differences are: Figure 6 and Figure 7 The illustrated embodiment requires the installation of a discharge module 220. Figure 8 and Figure 9 The illustrated embodiment does not require the discharge module 220.

[0073] Based on this, embodiments of this application provide an electronic device 200, which includes a battery module 100. In some examples, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the battery module 100 includes a first battery module 111 and a second battery module 112. The first battery module 111 includes a first battery cell 1111 and a second battery cell 1112 connected in series, with the cathode 1111b of the first battery cell 1111 electrically connected to the anode 1112a of the second battery cell 1112. The second battery module 112 includes a third battery cell 1113 and a fourth battery cell 1114 connected in series, with the cathode 1113b of the third battery cell 1113 electrically connected to the anode 1114a of the fourth battery cell 1114.

[0074] This configuration increases the number of battery cells in battery module 100, thereby increasing the typical voltage of battery module 100. Understandably, with the output current of battery module 100 remaining constant, the power output of battery module 100 can be doubled.

[0075] The battery cell unit (first battery cell unit 1111, second battery cell unit 1112, third battery cell unit 1113, and fourth battery cell unit 1114) includes a battery cell. For example, a battery cell unit may include one battery cell, or it may include multiple battery cells. When a battery cell unit includes multiple battery cells, the multiple battery cells are connected in series.

[0076] The first cell unit 1111, the second cell unit 1112, the third cell unit 1113, and the fourth cell unit 1114 each contain the same number of cells. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the following examples illustrate how each of the first battery cell unit 1111, the second battery cell unit 1112, the third battery cell unit 1113, and the fourth battery cell unit 1114 includes one battery cell.

[0077] In some examples, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the first switch module 120 is electrically connected to the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112. The first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in series or in parallel through the first switch module 120.

[0078] For example, the first switch module 120 includes at least two switch units. By turning different switch units on or off, it can control the series or parallel connection between the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112. When the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in series, the cathode 1112b of the second battery cell unit 1112 is electrically connected to the anode 1113a of the third battery cell unit 1113, or the cathode 1114b of the fourth battery cell unit 1114 is electrically connected to the anode 1111a of the first battery cell unit 1111. When the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in parallel, the anode 1111a of the first battery cell unit 1111 is electrically connected to the anode 1113a of the third battery cell unit 1113, and the cathode 1112b of the second battery cell unit 1112 is electrically connected to the cathode 1114b of the fourth battery cell unit 1114. The structure of the first switch module 120 is illustrated below.

[0079] In some examples, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the first switch module 120 includes a first switch unit 121, a second switch unit 122, and a third switch unit 123.

[0080] The switching unit (including the first switching unit 121, the second switching unit 122, and the third switching unit 123) may include a switching transistor, such as a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET). The switching unit may include a P-channel MOSFET or an N-channel MOSFET.

[0081] For example, such as Figure 7 As shown, the first switching unit 121 may include a seventh switch Q7 and an eighth switch Q8, with the seventh switch Q7 and the eighth switch Q8 electrically connected back-to-back. The second switching unit 122 may include a ninth switch Q9 and a tenth switch Q10, with the ninth switch Q9 and the tenth switch Q10 electrically connected back-to-back. The third switching unit 123 may include an eleventh switch Q11 and a twelfth switch Q12, with the eleventh switch Q11 and the twelfth switch Q12 electrically connected back-to-back.

[0082] Taking the seventh switch Q7 and the eighth switch Q8 as examples, when both the seventh switch Q7 and the eighth switch Q8 are P-channel MOSFETs, the source of the seventh switch Q7 and the source of the eighth switch Q8 are electrically connected. When both the seventh switch Q7 and the eighth switch Q8 are N-channel MOSFETs, the drain of the seventh switch Q7 and the drain of the eighth switch Q8 are electrically connected.

[0083] This configuration effectively blocks leakage current flowing along the seventh switch Q7 and the eighth switch Q8, and also blocks leakage current flowing from the eighth switch Q8 to the seventh switch Q7. This reduces the leakage current of the switching units (first switching unit 121, second switching unit 122, and third switching unit 123), improving their reliability.

[0084] When the second switch unit 122 is turned on and the first switch unit 121 and the third switch unit 123 are turned off, the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in series. When the first switch unit 121 and the third switch unit 123 are turned on and the second switch unit 122 is turned off, the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in parallel.

[0085] With this configuration, by controlling the on or off state of the first switch unit 121, the second switch unit 122 and the third switch unit 123, it is possible to control the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 to be connected in series or in parallel.

[0086] In some examples, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the first switch unit 121 is connected between the anode 1111a of the first cell unit 1111 and the anode 1113a of the third cell unit 1113, the second switch unit 122 is connected between the anode 1111a of the first cell unit 1111 and the cathode 1114b of the fourth cell unit 1114, and the third switch unit 123 is connected between the cathode 1112b of the second cell unit 1112 and the cathode 1114b of the fourth cell unit 1114.

[0087] For example, the two ends of the first switching unit 121 are electrically connected to the anode 1111a of the first battery cell 1111 and the anode 1113a of the third battery cell 1113, respectively. One end of the second switching unit 122 is electrically connected to the anode 1111a of the first battery cell 1111 and one end of the first switching unit 121, and the other end is electrically connected to the cathode 1114b of the fourth battery cell 1114 and one end of the third switching unit 123. The other end of the third switching unit 123 is electrically connected to the cathode 1112b of the second battery cell 1112 and the ground terminal GND.

[0088] This configuration allows the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 to be connected in series through the first switch module 120 when the second switch unit 122 is turned on and the first switch unit 121 and the third switch unit 123 are turned off, and allows the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 to be connected in parallel through the first switch module 120 when the first switch unit 121 and the third switch unit 123 are turned on and the second switch unit 122 is turned off.

[0089] In other examples, such as Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the first switch unit 121 is connected between the anode 1111a of the first cell unit 1111 and the anode 1113a of the third cell unit 1113. The second switch unit 122 is connected between the cathode 1112b of the second cell unit 1112 and the anode 1113a of the third cell unit 1113. The cathode 1113b of the third cell unit 1113 is grounded through the third switch unit 123. The cathode 1114b of the fourth cell unit 1114 is grounded.

[0090] For example, the two ends of the first switch unit 121 are electrically connected to the anode 1111a of the first battery cell unit 1111 and the anode 1113a of the third battery cell unit 1113, respectively. One end of the second switch unit 122 is electrically connected to the cathode 1112b of the second battery cell unit 1112 and one end of the third switch unit 123, and the other end is electrically connected to the anode 1111a of the first battery cell unit 1111 and the anode 1113a of the third battery cell unit 1113. The other end of the third switch unit 123 is grounded.

[0091] This configuration allows the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 to be connected in series through the first switch module 120 when the second switch unit 122 is turned on and the first switch unit 121 and the third switch unit 123 are turned off, and allows the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 to be connected in parallel through the first switch module 120 when the first switch unit 121 and the third switch unit 123 are turned on and the second switch unit 122 is turned off.

[0092] It is understood that the first switch unit 121, the second switch unit 122 and the third switch unit 123 may also have other electrical connection methods with the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112. The electrical connection methods between the first switch unit 121, the second switch unit 122 and the third switch unit 123 and the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 in the embodiments of this application are not further limited.

[0093] In some examples, such as Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown, the first switch module 120 also includes a fourth switch unit 124. One end of the fourth switch unit 124 is electrically connected to the cathode 1111b of the first battery cell unit 1111 and the anode 1112a of the second battery cell unit 1112, and the other end of the fourth switch unit 124 is electrically connected to the cathode 1113b of the third battery cell unit 1113 and the anode 1114a of the fourth battery cell unit 1114.

[0094] When the first switch unit 121, the third switch unit 123 and the fourth switch unit 124 are turned on and the second switch unit 122 is turned off, the first battery cell unit 1111 and the third battery cell unit 1113 are connected in parallel, and the second battery cell unit 1112 and the fourth battery cell unit 1114 are connected in parallel.

[0095] By setting the fourth switching unit 124, the first cell unit 1111 and the third cell unit 1113 can be connected in parallel, reducing the voltage difference between them. Furthermore, the second cell unit 1112 and the fourth cell unit 1114 can be connected in parallel, further reducing the voltage difference between them. In this way, the impact of the voltage difference between the cell units on the discharge efficiency of the battery module 100 can be reduced, thus improving the lifespan of the battery module 100.

[0096] For example, the fourth switching unit 124 includes two MOSFETs connected back-to-back (see...). Figure 11 This reduces the leakage current of the fourth switching unit 124 and improves its reliability.

[0097] In some examples, battery module 100 also includes a battery protection board (not shown in the figure), which may be a PCB. The battery protection board is electrically connected to the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112. The first switch module 120 is mounted on the main board 205 or the battery protection board. This configuration allows the first switch module 120 to be electrically connected to the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112, and improves the flexibility of the first switch module 120's configuration.

[0098] In some examples, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, controller 204 is electrically connected to the first switch module 120. Controller 204 is used to control the first switch module 120 to connect the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 in series or in parallel. Controller 204 is mounted on the main board 205 or the battery protection board.

[0099] For example, the GPIO3 interface of controller 204 is electrically connected to the first switch module 120, and can control the on / off state of the first switch unit 121, the second switch unit 122, the third switch unit 123, and the fourth switch unit 124, thereby controlling the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 to be connected in series or in parallel. Controller 204 is mounted on the motherboard 205 or the battery protection board, enabling controller 204 to be electrically connected to the first switch module 120 and improving the configuration flexibility of controller 204.

[0100] In some examples, the controller 204 can obtain the operating state (charging state or discharging state) of the battery module 100 and control the first switch module 120 according to the state (charging state or discharging state) of the battery module 100, thereby controlling the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 to be connected in series or in parallel.

[0101] When battery module 100 is charging, the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in series through the first switch module 120; or, when battery module 100 is charging, the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 switch between series and parallel connection through the first switch module 120. That is, when battery module 100 is charging, the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 can at least be connected in series. When battery module 100 is discharging, the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in parallel through the first switch module 120.

[0102] When the battery module 100 is in a charging state, connecting the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 in series, compared to connecting them in parallel, increases the typical voltage of the battery module 100, improves charging efficiency, reduces heat generation, and enhances the user experience. Furthermore, with a fixed amount of heat generation, the charging power can be increased, thereby increasing the charging speed.

[0103] For example, when the battery module 100 is in a charging state, if the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in series, the charging efficiency can be improved by about 5% compared to the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 being connected in parallel. Under the condition of a fixed heat dissipation, the charging power can be doubled.

[0104] When the battery module 100 is in a discharging state, configuring the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 in parallel reduces the typical voltage of the battery module 100, improves discharge efficiency, and increases the battery module 100's battery life and power supply reliability compared to configuring the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 in series. Furthermore, components electrically connected to the battery module 100 (e.g., the discharge module 220) do not need to be high-voltage resistant, reducing the cost of the electronic device 200.

[0105] For example, when the battery module 100 is in a discharging state, the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in parallel. Compared with the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 being connected in series, the discharge efficiency can be improved by about 5%.

[0106] In some examples, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, the electronic device 200 includes a charging module 210 and a discharging module 220. The input terminal 210a of the charging module 210 is electrically connected to the power supply Vin, and the output terminal 210b of the charging module 210 is electrically connected to the input terminal 220a of both the battery module 100 and the discharging module 220. The output terminal 220b of the discharging module 220 is electrically connected to the load 203. When the battery module 100 is in a charging state, the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in series through the first switch module 120.

[0107] Understandably, the output terminal 210b of the charging module 210 can be directly electrically connected to the battery module 100, or it can be connected via a switching device (e.g., the thirteenth switching transistor Q13, see...). Figure 11 Indirect electrical connection. For example, controller 204 is electrically connected to the thirteenth switch Q13. By controlling the conduction or disconnection of the thirteenth switch Q13, it can control the conduction or disconnection between the output terminal 210b of charging module 210 and battery module 100.

[0108] When the charging module 210 is working, a portion of the current flowing through the charging module 210 can flow to the battery module 100, enabling the power supply Vin to charge the battery module 100 through the charging module 210. Another portion of the current can flow to the discharging module 220, and then through the discharging module 220 to the load 203, enabling the power supply Vin to supply power to the load 203 through the charging module 210 and the discharging module 220.

[0109] The output terminal 220b of the discharge module 220 can be electrically connected to the load 203 through the step-down component of the electronic device 200. The step-down component of the electronic device 200 can reduce the voltage provided by the discharge module 220 to the rated voltage of the load 203, so that the load 203 can work normally.

[0110] Understandably, by controlling the output voltage and output current of the charging module 210, the voltage and current between the power supply Vin, the battery module 100, and the load 203 can be controlled, so that the battery module 100 can be charged as expected, thereby improving the reliability of the power supply Vin charging the battery module 100.

[0111] Furthermore, when the battery module 100 is in a charging state, the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in series through the first switch module 120. Compared to the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 being connected in parallel, this increases the typical voltage of the battery module 100, improves charging efficiency, reduces heat generation, and enhances the user experience. Moreover, with a fixed amount of heat generation, the charging power can be increased, thereby improving the charging speed.

[0112] In some examples, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the discharge module 220 includes a discharge step-down unit 221 and a bypass unit 222. The input terminal 221a of the discharge step-down unit 221 is electrically connected to the output terminal 210b of the charging module 210, and the output terminal 221b of the discharge step-down unit 221 is electrically connected to the load 203. The first connection terminal 222a of the bypass unit 222 is electrically connected to the input terminal 221a of the discharge step-down unit 221, and the second connection terminal 222b of the bypass unit 222 is electrically connected to the output terminal 221b of the discharge step-down unit 221.

[0113] When the battery module 100 is charging, the discharge step-down unit 221 is turned on and the bypass unit 222 is turned off. When the battery module 100 is discharging, the discharge step-down unit 221 is turned off and the bypass unit 222 is turned on.

[0114] Understandably, the input terminal 221a of the discharge step-down unit 221 is the input terminal 220a of the discharge module 220 and is electrically connected to the output terminal 210b of the charging module 210. The output terminal 221b of the discharge step-down unit 221 is the output terminal 220b of the discharge module 220 and is electrically connected to the load 203.

[0115] The discharge step-down unit 221 can step down the voltage; for example, the discharge step-down unit 221 can reduce the received voltage to half of its original value. The bypass unit 222 can bypass the voltage, that is, the current can flow to the load 203 through the discharge step-down unit 221, or the current can flow to the load 203 through the bypass unit 222.

[0116] When the battery module 100 is in the charging state, the controller 204 controls the discharge step-down unit 221 to be turned on and controls the bypass unit 222 to be turned off. The discharge module 220 operates in step-down mode. The power supply Vin supplies power to the load 203 through the charging module 210 and the discharge step-down unit 221, reducing the risk that the voltage supplied by the power supply Vin to the load 203 is too high and causes damage to the load 203.

[0117] When the battery module 100 is in a discharging state, the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in parallel to supply power to the load 203. The controller 204 controls the bypass unit 222 to be turned on and off. The discharge module 220 operates in bypass direct mode. The battery module 100 supplies power to the load 203 through the bypass unit 222, which reduces the risk of the output voltage drop of the discharge module 220 and enables the load 203 to work normally.

[0118] That is, the discharge module 220 is configured to include a discharge step-down unit 221 and a bypass unit 222, enabling the discharge module 220 to have both a step-down mode and a bypass direct-through mode. By controlling the discharge module 220 to switch between the step-down mode and the bypass direct-through mode, the supply voltage of the load 203 can be maintained at a stable voltage when the battery module 100 is in the charging and discharging state, thereby improving the reliability of the discharge module 220 in supplying power to the load 203.

[0119] For example, controller 204 is electrically connected to discharge buck unit 221 and bypass unit 222 to control the on / off state of discharge buck unit 221 and bypass unit 222. GPIO4 interface of controller 204 is electrically connected to bypass unit 222, and GPIO5 interface of controller 204 is electrically connected to discharge buck unit 221. Controller 204 and discharge buck unit 221 transmit signals via I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) protocol.

[0120] Understandably, after the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in parallel, the discharge step-down unit 221 can be immediately disconnected and the bypass unit 222 can be turned on, reducing the risk of the output voltage of the discharge module 220 dropping during the switching process of the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 being connected in series and in parallel, so that the load 203 can work normally.

[0121] In some examples, such as Figure 7 As shown, the bypass unit 222 includes a switching transistor, such as a MOSFET. The bypass unit 222 may include a P-channel MOSFET or an N-channel MOSFET.

[0122] For example, the bypass unit 222 may include a fifth switch Q5 and a sixth switch Q6, which are electrically connected back-to-back. This configuration can cut off leakage current flowing along the directions of the fifth switch Q5 and the sixth switch Q6, and can also cut off leakage current flowing from the sixth switch Q6 to the fifth switch Q5, thereby reducing the leakage current of the bypass unit 222 and improving its reliability.

[0123] In some examples, the charging module 210 is located on the motherboard 205 or the battery protection board, and the discharging module 220 is located on the motherboard 205 or the battery protection board.

[0124] This configuration allows the charging module 210 to be electrically connected to the discharging module 220 and the battery module 100, and also allows the discharging module 220 to be electrically connected to the load 203, thus improving the flexibility of the charging module 210 and the discharging module 220 configuration.

[0125] In other examples, such as Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the electronic device 200 includes only the charging module 210 and does not include the discharging module 220. At this time, the input terminal 210a of the charging module 210 is electrically connected to the power supply Vin. One of the anodes 1111a of the first battery cell 1111 and 1113a of the third battery cell 1113 is electrically connected to the output terminal 210b of the charging module 210, and the other is electrically connected to the load 203.

[0126] The embodiments of this application take the anode 1111a of the first battery cell unit 1111 being electrically connected to the output terminal 210b of the charging module 210, and the anode 1113a of the third battery cell unit 1113 being connected to the load 203 as an example, and continue to illustrate with examples.

[0127] When battery module 100 is charging and the voltage difference between the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 is less than a set voltage threshold, the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in series through the first switch module 120. When battery module 100 is charging and the voltage difference between the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 is greater than or equal to a set voltage threshold, the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in parallel through the first switch module 120.

[0128] Understandably, when the charging module 210 is in operation, a portion of the current flowing through the first battery module 111 can flow to the second battery module 112, enabling the power supply Vin to charge the second battery module 112. Another portion of the current flowing through the first battery cell 1111 can flow to the load 203, enabling the power supply Vin to supply power to the load 203. The current flowing through the second battery module 112 is less than the current flowing through the first battery module 111, resulting in a lower voltage across the second battery module 112 than across the first battery module 111.

[0129] When the battery module 100 is in a charging state and the voltage difference between the terminals of the first battery module 111 and the terminals of the second battery module 112 is less than a set voltage threshold, the voltage difference between the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 is small. The first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in series to increase the typical voltage of the battery module 100 and improve the charging efficiency.

[0130] When the voltage difference between the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 is greater than or equal to a set voltage threshold, the voltage difference between the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 is large, meaning the voltage difference within the battery module 100 is also large. In this case, the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in parallel, making the voltage across the first battery module 111 approximately equal to the voltage across the second battery module 112. This reduces the impact of the voltage difference between the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 on the discharge efficiency and lifespan of the battery module 100, thereby improving the power supply reliability of the battery module 100.

[0131] In this way, while improving the charging efficiency of the battery module 100 and shortening the charging time, the risk of excessive voltage difference between the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 (e.g., greater than or equal to a set voltage threshold) can be reduced. This reduces the impact of the voltage difference between the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 on the discharge efficiency and lifespan of the battery module 100, thereby improving the power supply reliability of the battery module 100.

[0132] For example, the voltage threshold can be set to 30mV (millivolts), 40mV, or 50mV, etc. The embodiments of this application do not further limit the value of the set voltage threshold.

[0133] Understandably, one of the anodes 1111a of the first battery cell unit 1111 and 1113a of the third battery cell unit 1113 is electrically connected to the output terminal 210b of the charging module 210, and the other is electrically connected to the load 203. This makes the voltage supplied to the load 203 by the power supply Vin when the battery module 100 is charging approximately equal to the voltage supplied to the load 203 by the battery module 100 when the battery module 100 is discharging (e.g., 8V). There is no need to set up a discharge module 220 to step down the voltage supplied to the load 203 by the power supply Vin, which simplifies the structure of the electronic device 200.

[0134] In some examples, the charging module 210 is located on the motherboard 205 or the battery protection board.

[0135] This configuration allows the charging module 210 to be electrically connected to the discharging module 220 and the battery module 100, improving the flexibility of the charging module 210 configuration.

[0136] In some examples, such as Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, the charging module 210 includes a charging unit (CHG) 211. The input terminal 211a of the charging unit 211 is electrically connected to the power supply Vin, and the output terminal 211b of the charging unit 211 is electrically connected to the battery module 100 and the load 203 of the battery module 100. The controller 204 is electrically connected to the charging unit 211 to control the output voltage and output current of the charging unit 211.

[0137] For example, charging unit 211 can be a direct charging unit, or it can be a narrow voltage direct current (NVDC) charging unit. The output terminal 211b of charging unit 211 is the output terminal 210b of charging module 210. The output terminal 211b of charging unit 211 can be directly electrically connected to load 203, or it can be indirectly electrically connected through other devices.

[0138] The charging module 210 includes a charging unit 211. By controlling the output voltage and output current of the charging unit 211, the voltage and current between the power supply Vin, the battery module 100, and the load 203 can be controlled, so that the battery module 100 can be charged as expected, thereby improving the reliability of the power supply Vin charging the battery module 100.

[0139] In some examples, such as Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the charging module 210 also includes an overvoltage protection unit 212. The input terminal 212a of the overvoltage protection unit 212 is electrically connected to the power supply Vin, and the output terminal 212b of the overvoltage protection unit 212 is electrically connected to the input terminal 211a of the charging unit 211. The controller 204 is electrically connected to the overvoltage protection unit 212 to control the on / off state of the overvoltage protection unit 212.

[0140] For example, the overvoltage protection unit 212 may include an overvoltage protection chip (OVP). The input terminal 212a of the overvoltage protection unit 212 is electrically connected to the power supply Vin, and the output terminal 212b of the overvoltage protection unit 212 is electrically connected to the input terminal 211a of the charging unit 211. That is, the overvoltage protection unit 212 is connected between the power supply Vin and the charging unit 211, enabling the overvoltage protection unit 212 to protect the charging unit 211.

[0141] For example, when the voltage supplied by the power supply Vin is too high (greater than the set voltage), the controller 204 can control the overvoltage protection unit 212 to disconnect, reducing the risk of damage to the charging unit 211, battery module 100, and load 203 caused by the high voltage. When the voltage supplied by the power supply Vin is low (e.g., less than or equal to the set voltage), the controller 204 can control the overvoltage protection unit 212 to turn on, allowing the power supply Vin to supply power to the battery module 100 and load 203 through the overvoltage protection unit 212.

[0142] Figure 10 This is a schematic block diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 11 A circuit topology diagram of an electronic device provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 12 A circuit topology diagram of an electronic device provided in some embodiments of this application. Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the circuit topology of an electronic device provided for some embodiments of this application. It will be understood that... Figures 10-12 and Figures 6-8 The difference is shown in the diagram, which depicts a fuel gauge 230. To simplify the diagram, Figure 12 and Figure 13 The second switch module 240 is not shown.

[0143] In some examples, such as Figure 10 As shown, the electronic device 200 also includes a fuel gauge 230, which is electrically connected to the battery module 100.

[0144] Understandably, the fuel gauge 230 is used to detect the voltage and current of the battery module 100. For example, the fuel gauge 230 can detect the current and voltage of the battery module 100 in real time, or the fuel gauge 230 can detect the current and voltage of the battery module 100 at set time intervals.

[0145] In some examples, controller 204 is electrically connected to fuel gauge 230. Controller 204 can acquire the detection results from fuel gauge 230 and determine the charging and discharging levels of battery module 100 based on these results. For example, the SMBUS interface of controller 204 is electrically connected to fuel gauge 230.

[0146] Understandably, by setting up the fuel gauge 230, the current and voltage of the battery module 100 can be detected, thereby improving the reliability of the battery module 100 during charging and discharging.

[0147] In some examples, such as Figure 11As shown, the electronic device 200 also includes a second switch module 240, which is electrically connected to the battery module 100 and the fuel gauge 230. When the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in series, the second switch module 240 electrically connects the fuel gauge 230 to both the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112. When the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in parallel, the second switch module 240 electrically connects the fuel gauge 230 to either the first battery module 111 or the second battery module 112.

[0148] The fuel gauge 230 may include multiple pins (e.g., first pin VC1, second pin VC2, third pin VC3, fourth pin VC4, and fifth pin VC5). When the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in series, the second switch module 240 electrically connects the multiple pins of the fuel gauge 230 to the first cell unit 1111, the second cell unit 1112, the third cell unit 1113, and the fourth cell unit 1114 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 12 This allows the fuel gauge 230 to detect the current and voltage of the first battery module 111 (first cell unit 1111 and second cell unit 1112), as well as the battery and voltage of the second battery module 112 (third cell unit 1113 and fourth cell unit 1114), thereby obtaining the current and voltage of the battery module 100 in the series connection state of the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112.

[0149] When the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in parallel, the voltages across the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are approximately equal. When the second switch module 240 electrically connects the fuel gauge 230 to the first battery module 111, the fuel gauge 230 can detect the current and voltage of the first battery module 111, thereby obtaining the current and voltage of the battery module 100. When the second switch module 240 electrically connects the fuel gauge 230 to the second battery module 112 (see...), Figure 13 The power meter 230 can detect the current and voltage of the second battery module 112, thereby obtaining the current and voltage of the battery module 100.

[0150] For example, controller 204 is electrically connected to second switch module 240, thereby enabling control over the electrical connection between fuel gauge 230 and first battery module 111 and second battery module 112. For example, the GPIO2 interface of controller 204 is electrically connected to second switch module 240.

[0151] By setting the second switch module 240, the electrical connection between the fuel gauge 230 and the battery module 100 (first battery module 111 and second battery module 112) can be controlled, so that when the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in series or in parallel, the fuel gauge 230 can detect the current and voltage of the battery module 100. There is no need to set multiple fuel gauges 230, which simplifies the structure of the electronic device 200 and reduces the cost of the electronic device 200.

[0152] In some examples, when the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in parallel, the second switch module 240 electrically connects the fuel gauge 230 to the second battery module 112. For example... Figure 11 As shown, the fuel gauge 230 includes a first pin VC1, a second pin VC2, a third pin VC3, a fourth pin VC4, and a fifth pin VC5. For example, the first pin VC1 is a ground pin used for grounding. The second pin VC2, the third pin VC3, the fourth pin VC4, and the fifth pin VC5 are used for electrical connection to the battery module 100.

[0153] like Figure 11 As shown, the second switch module 240 includes a first switch transistor Q1, a second switch transistor Q2, a third switch transistor Q3, and a fourth switch transistor Q4. The first connection terminal of the first switch transistor Q1 is electrically connected to the anode 1111a of the first battery cell 1111, and the second connection terminal of the first switch transistor Q1 is electrically connected to the fifth pin VC5 and the first connection terminal of the third switch transistor Q3. The first connection terminal of the second switch transistor Q2 is electrically connected to the cathode 1111b of the first battery cell 1111 and the anode 1112a of the second battery cell 1112, and the second connection terminal of the second switch transistor Q2 is electrically connected to the fourth pin VC4, the second connection terminal of the third switch transistor Q3, and the first connection terminal of the fourth switch transistor Q4. The second connection terminal of the fourth switch transistor Q4 is electrically connected to the anode 1113a of the third battery cell 1113 and the third pin VC3, and the second pin VC2 is electrically connected to the cathode 1113b of the third battery cell 1113 and the anode 1114a of the fourth battery cell 1114.

[0154] For example, the first switch Q1, the second switch Q2, the third switch Q3, and the fourth switch Q4 can be MOSFETs. These switches can be P-channel MOSFETs or N-channel MOSFETs. The controller 204 is electrically connected to the control terminals of the first switch Q1, the second switch Q2, the third switch Q3, and the fourth switch Q4 to control the on / off state of these switches, thereby controlling the electrical connection between the fuel gauge 230 and the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112.

[0155] When the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in series, the controller 204 can control the first switch Q1 and the second switch Q2 to turn on, and control the third switch Q3 and the fourth switch Q4 to turn off, such as... Figure 12 As shown, the fifth pin VC5 can be electrically connected to the anode 1111a of the first battery cell 1111 through the first switch Q1. The fourth pin VC4 can be electrically connected to the cathode 1111b of the first battery cell 1111 and the anode 1112a of the second battery cell 1112 through the second switch Q2. The third pin VC3 is electrically connected to the anode 1113a of the third battery cell 1113. The second pin VC2 is electrically connected to the cathode 1113b of the third battery cell 1113 and the anode 1114a of the fourth battery cell 1114. The first pin VC1 is grounded. That is, the second switch module 240 can electrically connect the fuel gauge 230 to the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112, so that the fuel gauge 230 can detect the current and voltage of the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 to determine the charging and discharging levels of the battery module 100.

[0156] When the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in parallel, the controller 204 can control the first switch Q1 and the second switch Q2 to disconnect, and control the third switch Q3 and the fourth switch Q4 to conduct, such as Figure 13 As shown, after the fifth pin VC5, the fourth pin VC4, and the third pin VC3 are electrically connected, they are all electrically connected to the anode 1113a of the third cell unit 1113. The second pin VC2 is electrically connected to the cathode 1113b of the third cell unit 1113, and the first pin VC1 is grounded. That is, the second switch module 240 can electrically connect the fuel gauge 230 to the second battery module 112, so that the fuel gauge 230 can detect the current and voltage of the second battery module 112 to determine the charging and discharging levels of the battery module 100.

[0157] The second switch module 240 includes a first switch Q1, a second switch Q2, a third switch Q3, and a fourth switch Q4. By controlling the on / off state of the first switch Q1, the second switch Q2, the third switch Q3, and the fourth switch Q4, the electrical connection between the fuel gauge 230 and the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 can be controlled. This ensures that when the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in series or in parallel, the fuel gauge 230 can detect the voltage across the battery module 100. This eliminates the need for multiple fuel gauges 230, simplifies the structure of the electronic device 200, and reduces its cost.

[0158] In some examples, the fuel gauge 230 is located on the mainboard 205 or the battery protection board. The second switch module 240 is located on the mainboard 205 or the battery protection board.

[0159] This configuration allows the fuel gauge 230 to be electrically connected to the battery module 100, and the second switch module 240 to be electrically connected to the fuel gauge 230. Furthermore, it improves the flexibility of configuring the fuel gauge 230 and the second switch module 240.

[0160] Understandably, when the adapter is plugged into the charging interface of the electronic device 200, the controller 204 controls the discharge step-down unit 221 to turn on and controls the bypass unit 222 to turn off, so that the discharge module 220 operates in step-down mode. Afterwards, it controls the second switch unit 122 of the first switch module 120 to turn on, causing the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 to be connected in series.

[0161] After the bypass unit 222 is turned off, the controller 204 immediately controls the first switch module 120 to connect the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 in series, so that the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 connected in series can supply power to the load 203 through the discharge step-down unit 221, thereby reducing the risk of the output voltage of the discharge module 220 dropping due to the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 connected in parallel being supplied by the discharge step-down unit 221.

[0162] After the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in series, the controller 204 controls the first switch Q1 and the second switch Q2 of the second switch module 240 to conduct, enabling the fuel gauge 230 to be electrically connected to the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112. Then, the controller 204 switches the battery modeling parameters to match the voltage of the battery module 100 when the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in series. The controller 204 then controls the charging module 210 (charging unit 211 and overvoltage protection unit 212) to conduct, allowing the power supply Vin to supply power to the battery module 100 and the load 203 through the charging module 210.

[0163] When the adapter is unplugged from the charging port of the electronic device 200, the controller 204 controls the charging module 210 (charging unit 211 and overvoltage protection unit 212) to disconnect, and then switches the battery modeling parameters so that the battery modeling parameters are adapted to the voltage of the battery module 100 when the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in parallel.

[0164] After the battery modeling parameters are switched, the controller 204 controls the first switch Q1 and the second switch Q2 of the second switch module 240 to disconnect, and controls the third switch Q3 and the fourth switch Q4 to turn on, so that the second switch module 240 can electrically connect the fuel gauge 230 to the second battery module 112. Then, the controller 204 controls the second switch unit 122 of the first switch module 120 to disconnect, and the first switch unit 121, the third switch unit 123, and the fourth switch unit 124 to turn on, so that the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in parallel.

[0165] After the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in parallel, the controller 204 controls the discharge step-down unit 221 to disconnect and controls the bypass unit 222 to turn on. The discharge module 220 operates in bypass direct mode, and the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 connected in parallel can supply power to the load 203 through the bypass unit 222.

[0166] After the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 are connected in parallel, the controller 204 immediately controls the discharge step-down unit 221 to disconnect and controls the bypass unit 222 to turn on, so that the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 connected in parallel can supply power to the load 203 through the bypass unit 222, thereby reducing the risk that the output voltage of the discharge module 220 will drop due to the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 connected in parallel being supplied by the discharge step-down unit 221.

[0167] On the other hand, embodiments of this application provide a method for controlling a battery module. In some examples, the method for controlling a battery module is used to control the battery module 100 as described above.

[0168] The control methods for the battery module include:

[0169] When the battery module is charging, the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in series through the first switch module; or, the first battery module and the second battery module are switched between series and parallel connection through the first switch module.

[0170] When the battery module is in a discharging state, the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in parallel through the first switch module.

[0171] Understandably, when battery module 100 is in a charging state, the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 can be connected in series at least once. Compared to the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 being connected in parallel, this increases the typical voltage of battery module 100, improves charging efficiency, reduces heat generation, and enhances the user experience. Furthermore, under the same heat generation conditions, the charging power can be increased, thereby improving the charging speed.

[0172] When the battery module 100 is in a discharging state, the first battery module 111 and the second battery 112 can be connected in parallel. Compared to connecting the first battery module 111 and the second battery module 112 in series, this reduces the typical voltage of the battery module 100, improves discharge efficiency, and increases the battery module 100's battery life and power supply reliability. Furthermore, components electrically connected to the battery module 100 (e.g., the discharge module 220) do not need to be high-voltage resistant, reducing the cost of the electronic device 200.

[0173] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An electronic device, characterized in that, Includes a battery module; the battery module includes: A first battery module and a second battery module; the first battery module includes a first battery cell unit and a second battery cell unit connected in series, the cathode of the first battery cell unit being electrically connected to the anode of the second battery cell unit; the second battery module includes a third battery cell unit and a fourth battery cell unit connected in series, the cathode of the third battery cell unit being electrically connected to the anode of the fourth battery cell unit; A first switching module is electrically connected to the first battery module and the second battery module; the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in series or in parallel through the first switching module; when the battery module is in a charging state, the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in series through the first switching module; or, when the battery module is in a charging state, the first battery module and the second battery module switch between series and parallel connection through the first switching module; when the battery module is in a discharging state, the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in parallel through the first switching module.

2. The electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The battery module includes a charging module and a discharging module; the input terminal of the charging module is electrically connected to the power supply, and the output terminal of the charging module is electrically connected to the input terminals of the battery module and the discharging module; the output terminal of the discharging module is electrically connected to the load. When the battery module is in a charging state, the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in series through the first switch module.

3. The electronic device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The discharge module includes: A discharge step-down unit, wherein the input terminal of the discharge step-down unit is electrically connected to the output terminal of the charging module, and the output terminal of the discharge step-down unit is electrically connected to the load; A bypass unit, wherein the first connection terminal of the bypass unit is electrically connected to the input terminal of the discharge step-down unit, and the second connection terminal of the bypass unit is electrically connected to the output terminal of the discharge step-down unit; When the battery module is in a charging state, the discharge step-down unit is turned on and the bypass unit is turned off; when the battery module is in a discharging state, the discharge step-down unit is turned off and the bypass unit is turned on.

4. The electronic device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, It also includes a motherboard; the battery module is electrically connected to the motherboard; the battery module also includes a battery protection board, which is electrically connected to the first battery module and the second battery module; the charging module is disposed on the motherboard or the battery protection board; the discharging module is disposed on the motherboard or the battery protection board.

5. The electronic device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a charging module; the input terminal of the charging module is electrically connected to the power supply; one of the anodes of the first battery cell and the third battery cell is electrically connected to the output terminal of the charging module, and the other is electrically connected to the load; When the battery module is in a charging state and the voltage difference between the first battery module and the second battery module is less than a set voltage threshold, the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in series through the first switch module; when the battery module is in a charging state and the voltage difference between the first battery module and the second battery module is greater than or equal to the set voltage threshold, the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in parallel through the first switch module.

6. The electronic device according to claim 5, characterized in that, It also includes a motherboard; the battery module is electrically connected to the motherboard; the battery module also includes a battery protection board, which is electrically connected to the first battery module and the second battery module; the charging module is disposed on the motherboard or the battery protection board.

7. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, It also includes a fuel gauge, which is electrically connected to the battery module.

8. The electronic device according to claim 7, characterized in that, It also includes a second switch module, which is electrically connected to the battery module and the fuel meter; When the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in series, the second switch module electrically connects the fuel gauge to both the first battery module and the second battery module; when the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in parallel, the second switch module electrically connects the fuel gauge to either the first battery module or the second battery module.

9. The electronic device according to claim 8, characterized in that, When the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in parallel, the second switch module electrically connects the fuel gauge to the second battery module; The power meter includes a second pin, a third pin, a fourth pin, and a fifth pin; the second switching module includes a first switching transistor, a second switching transistor, a third switching transistor, and a fourth switching transistor. The first connection terminal of the first switching transistor is electrically connected to the anode of the first battery cell unit, and the second connection terminal of the first switching transistor is electrically connected to the fifth pin and the first connection terminal of the third switching transistor; the first connection terminal of the second switching transistor is electrically connected to the cathode of the first battery cell unit and the anode of the second battery cell unit, and the second connection terminal of the second switching transistor is electrically connected to the fourth pin, the second connection terminal of the third switching transistor, and the first connection terminal of the fourth switching transistor; the second connection terminal of the fourth switching transistor is electrically connected to the anode of the third battery cell unit and the third pin; the second pin is electrically connected to the cathode of the third battery cell unit and the anode of the fourth battery cell unit.

10. The electronic device according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, It also includes a motherboard; the battery module is electrically connected to the motherboard; the battery module also includes a battery protection board, which is electrically connected to the first battery module and the second battery module; the fuel gauge is mounted on the motherboard or the battery protection board; the second switch module is mounted on the motherboard or the battery protection board.

11. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The first switch module includes a first switch unit, a second switch unit, and a third switch unit; When the second switch unit is turned on and the first switch unit and the third switch unit are turned off, the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in series; when the first switch unit and the third switch unit are turned on and the second switch unit is turned off, the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in parallel.

12. The electronic device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first switching unit is connected between the anode of the first battery cell and the anode of the third battery cell; the second switching unit is connected between the anode of the first battery cell and the cathode of the fourth battery cell; and the third switching unit is connected between the cathode of the second battery cell and the cathode of the fourth battery cell.

13. The electronic device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first switching unit is connected between the anode of the first battery cell and the anode of the third battery cell; the second switching unit is connected between the cathode of the second battery cell and the anode of the third battery cell; the cathode of the third battery cell is grounded through the third switching unit, and the cathode of the fourth battery cell is grounded.

14. The electronic device according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that, The first switching module further includes a fourth switching unit; one end of the fourth switching unit is electrically connected to the cathode of the first battery cell and the anode of the second battery cell, and the other end of the fourth switching unit is electrically connected to the cathode of the third battery cell and the anode of the fourth battery cell. When the first switch unit, the third switch unit, and the fourth switch unit are turned on, and the second switch unit is turned off, the first battery cell unit and the third battery cell unit are connected in parallel, and the second battery cell unit and the fourth battery cell unit are connected in parallel.

15. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that, It also includes a motherboard; the battery module is electrically connected to the motherboard; the battery module also includes a battery protection board, which is electrically connected to the first battery module and the second battery module; the first switch module is disposed on the motherboard or the battery protection board.

16. The electronic device according to claim 15, characterized in that, Also includes: The controller is electrically connected to the first switch module; The controller is used to control the first switch module to connect the first battery module and the second battery module in series or in parallel; The controller is mounted on the motherboard or the battery protection board.

17. A battery module, characterized in that, include: First battery module and second battery module; The first battery module includes a first battery cell unit and a second battery cell unit connected in series, with the cathode of the first battery cell unit electrically connected to the anode of the second battery cell unit; the second battery module includes a third battery cell unit and a fourth battery cell unit connected in series, with the cathode of the third battery cell unit electrically connected to the anode of the fourth battery cell unit. A first switching module is electrically connected to the first battery module and the second battery module; the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in series or in parallel through the first switching module; when the battery module is in a charging state, the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in series through the first switching module; or, the first battery module and the second battery module switch between series and parallel connection through the first switching module; when the battery module is in a discharging state, the first battery module and the second battery module are connected in parallel through the first switching module.

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