Control device for battery connection unit and battery connection unit

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a control device for a battery connection unit, the control device comprising an integrated circuit (IC) and a first reference impedance, where the IC comprises a trigger output for coupling to a pyrotechnic control switch, where the IC is configured to generate a trigger signal for triggering the pyrotechnic control switch at the trigger output, wherein the IC comprises a reference input for receiving a reference signal, where the first reference impedance is coupled to the reference input to generate the reference signal at the reference input depending on the first reference impedance, where the IC comprises a driver output for coupling to a storage capacitor, and wherein the IC is configured to generate a driver signal at the driver output according to the reference signal for charging the storage capacitor. The present disclosure also relates to a battery connection unit comprising the control device and a method for the control device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a control device for a battery connection unit, a battery connection unit including the control device, and a method for using the control device. Background Technology

[0002] Battery-powered electrical systems are increasingly used in automotive applications and other technological fields. A battery-powered electrical system may include a battery as an energy source, electrical devices, and other components located between the battery and the electrical devices. These other components can be used to transfer electrical energy from the battery to the electrical devices. Other functions may also be provided by these other components. The electrical devices may also be referred to as electrical loads. Electrical loads may be, for example, electric actuators, electric control units, airbag systems, or other electrical sub-devices for motor vehicles.

[0003] One of the components arranged between the battery and the electrical device can be a battery connection unit. The battery connection unit can be a device. The battery connection unit can be integrated into an electrical string between the battery and at least one electrical device, this electrical string being referred to as a coupling string.

[0004] Battery-powered electrical systems may also include a pyro switch. In this example, the pyro switch may be configured as a pyro control fuse. The pyro switch can be used to interrupt electrical connections. The pyro switch can contribute to the safety and / or reliable operation of the electrical system. For example, if a fault is detected, such as excessive current, fire, or other predefined critical events, the pyro switch can be used to quickly disconnect the electrical connection between the battery and at least one electrical device. The pyro switch may be configured to be triggered by a trigger signal. The trigger signal can serve two purposes: first, to trigger the pyro switch, and second, to provide electrical energy to the pyro switch for triggering. Supplying electrical energy to the pyro switch via a trigger signal provides the advantage that the pyro switch can also interrupt electrical connections in cases where, for example, power supply via the battery is no longer available due to a fault. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This summary is provided to introduce, in a simplified form, a series of concepts further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0006] The appended claims define all aspects of this disclosure.

[0007] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a control device for a battery connection unit is provided. The control device includes an integrated circuit (IC) and a first reference impedance, wherein the IC includes a trigger output for coupling to a pyrotechnic control switch, wherein the IC is configured to generate a trigger signal at the trigger output for triggering the pyrotechnic control switch, wherein the IC includes a reference input for receiving a reference signal, wherein the first reference impedance is coupled to the reference input to generate the reference signal at the reference input depending on the first reference impedance, wherein the IC includes a driver output for coupling to a storage capacitor, and wherein the IC is configured to generate a driver signal at the driver output based on the reference signal for charging the storage capacitor.

[0008] In one or more embodiments, the IC is configured to be supplied with capacitor energy from the storage capacitor via the driver output, and wherein the IC is configured to be powered by the capacitor energy to generate the trigger signal.

[0009] In one or more embodiments, the IC is configured to detect the charge state of the storage capacitor based on the driver signal and / or the reference signal, and wherein the IC is configured to generate the trigger signal at the trigger output once the charge state of the storage capacitor reaches at least a predefined reference charge state.

[0010] In one or more embodiments, the control device includes a first battery terminal and a second battery terminal, wherein the IC is coupled to the first battery terminal and the second battery terminal, wherein the control device includes a first interface terminal, wherein the control device is configured to receive a predefined first base voltage at the first interface terminal, and wherein the first reference impedance is coupled between the first interface terminal and the reference input of the IC.

[0011] In one or more embodiments, the IC is configured to generate a predefined voltage as a reference voltage for a reference signal at the reference input of the IC.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, the IC is configured to control the drive current of the drive signal based on a reference current of the reference signal.

[0013] In one or more embodiments, the IC is configured to control the drive current such that the drive current is proportional to the reference current, particularly proportional to the reference current at a predetermined ratio with an allowable deviation of less than 15%.

[0014] In one or more embodiments, the control device includes a feedback loop coupled between the driver output of the IC and the reference input of the IC, wherein a second reference impedance is integrated in the feedback loop.

[0015] In one or more embodiments, a diode is integrated into the feedback line, and the forward direction of the diode in the feedback loop points from the driver output to the reference input.

[0016] In one or more embodiments, the IC includes a first circuit string extending from the reference input of the IC to a second power supply voltage terminal (ground) of the IC, and wherein a voltage regulation unit is integrated into the first circuit string, wherein the voltage regulation unit is configured to limit the voltage at the reference input of the IC to the second reference voltage.

[0017] In one or more embodiments, the IC includes a second circuit string extending from a first power supply voltage terminal of the IC to a second power supply voltage terminal, wherein the IC includes a first current mirror circuit, the first current mirror circuit including two transistors referred to as a first sensor transistor and a first mirror transistor, wherein the first sensor transistor is integrated into the first circuit string, wherein the first mirror transistor is integrated into the second circuit string, wherein the first mirror transistor is coupled to the first sensor transistor such that the first mirror transistor induces an intermediate string current in the second circuit string at a predefined first ratio to the reference current, wherein the IC includes a third circuit string extending from the first power supply voltage terminal to the driver output, wherein the IC includes a second current mirror circuit, the second current mirror circuit including two transistors referred to as a second sensor transistor and a second mirror transistor, wherein the second sensor transistor is integrated into the second circuit string, wherein the second mirror transistor is integrated into the third circuit string, and wherein the second mirror transistor is coupled to the second sensor transistor such that the second mirror transistor causes the drive current in the third circuit string to have a predefined second ratio to the intermediate string current.

[0018] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a battery connection unit is provided. The battery connection unit includes a control device according to a first aspect of this disclosure (and / or according to any of the foregoing embodiments), and a storage capacitor coupled to a driver output.

[0019] In one or more embodiments, the battery connection unit further includes: a battery input terminal, a battery output terminal, and a pyrotechnic control switch, wherein a connection string extends from the battery input terminal to the battery output terminal, wherein the pyrotechnic control switch is integrated into the connection string, wherein the pyrotechnic control switch is coupled to the control device such that the storage capacitor provides electrical energy to the pyrotechnic control switch for triggering, wherein the IC is coupled to the pyrotechnic control switch, and wherein the IC is configured to generate a trigger signal at the trigger output to trigger the pyrotechnic control switch once the charge state of the storage capacitor has reached at least a predefined reference charge state.

[0020] In one or more embodiments, the battery connection unit includes a current sensor for measuring the battery current in the connection string, wherein the current sensor is coupled to the IC, wherein the IC is configured to generate a trigger signal for triggering the pyrotechnic control switch in response to the battery current reaching or exceeding a predefined threshold current value.

[0021] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, a method for controlling a device is provided, wherein the control device includes an integrated circuit (IC) and a first reference impedance, the IC including a trigger output for coupling to a pyrotechnic control switch, the IC including a reference input, the first reference impedance being coupled to the reference input, the IC including a driver output, the IC including a driver output for coupling to a storage capacitor, the IC being configured to generate a trigger signal at the trigger output via energy from the storage capacitor for triggering the pyrotechnic control switch, wherein the method includes the steps of: a) generating a reference signal at the reference input via and depending on the first reference impedance, b) receiving the reference signal at the reference input of the IC, and c) generating a driver signal at the driver output via the IC for charging the storage capacitor, depending on the reference signal. Attached Figure Description

[0022] Embodiments of this disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it should be noted that the drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this disclosure and should therefore not be considered as limiting the scope of this disclosure, allowing for the implementation of other equally effective embodiments. The advantages of the claimed subject matter will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading this specification in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals are used to denote the same elements, and in the drawings:

[0023] Figure 1 A simplified block diagram illustrating an example of a control device and a battery connection unit is shown.

[0024] Figure 2A simplified block diagram schematically illustrates another example of a control unit and battery connection unit.

[0025] Figure 3 An example of a simplified charge state curve for a storage capacitor is shown.

[0026] Figure 4 An example of a simplified curve for the driver current is shown.

[0027] Figure 5 An example of a simplified curve for capacitor voltage is shown.

[0028] Figure 6 Another example of a simplified curve for the driver current is shown.

[0029] Figure 7 An example of a simplified curve showing the power transferred to the storage capacitor is shown.

[0030] Figure 8 A simplified flowchart of the method is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Figure 1 An example of system 202 is schematically shown. System 202 includes a battery 168 as an electrical energy source and an electrical load 204. The electrical load 204 can be coupled to the battery 168 via a coupling string 206, so that electrical energy can be supplied from the battery 168 to the electrical load 204. System 200 can also be referred to as a battery-powered electrical system 202.

[0032] Battery connection unit 102 may be integrated into coupling string 206. Battery connection unit 102 may be coupled to battery 168. Additionally, battery connection unit 102 may be coupled to electrical load 204. Battery connection unit 102 can be used to ensure coupling from electrical load 204 to battery 168. Other devices, elements, and / or components may be integrated into coupling string 206 (not shown).

[0033] System 202 may also include a pyrotechnic control switch 110. The pyrotechnic control switch 110 may be integrated into the coupling string 206. The pyrotechnic control switch 110 may also be referred to as a pyrotechnic cut-off switch. The pyrotechnic control switch 110 may include an electrically explosive material. The pyrotechnic control switch 110 may be configured such that the explosive material is ignited by a trigger signal. Ignition can lead to an explosion, which causes the electrical connection in which the pyrotechnic control switch is integrated to break.

[0034] In this example, system 202 may form part of a motor vehicle. Electrical load 204 may represent a single load of the motor vehicle or a network of multiple loads of the motor vehicle. For example, the motor vehicle may be an electric motor vehicle. The voltage of the battery 168 of the electric vehicle may be greater than 50V, greater than 100V, or greater than 200V. In this case, battery 168 may serve as a power source for the electric drive of the electric vehicle. The electric drive and associated components may form electrical load 204. In this example, for instance, in the event of a failure of system 202, particularly in the event of an accident, pyrotechnic control switch 110 may be used to quickly disconnect the electrical connection between battery 168 and electrical load 204 (via coupling string 206).

[0035] Figure 1 An example of a control device 100 is also schematically shown. The control device 100 may be used in the battery connection unit 102. Figure 1 An example of battery connection unit 102 is also schematically shown. The following explanations can be referenced to battery connection unit 102 and / or control device 100. Specifically, the explanations relating to battery connection unit 102 can be applied to control device 100 in a similar manner, even in examples where control device 100 is configured independently of battery connection unit 102. Furthermore, the explanations relating to control device 100 can be applied to battery connection unit 102 in a similar manner, particularly in examples where control device 100 may form part of battery connection unit 102.

[0036] Control device 100 includes integrated circuit (IC) 104. Additionally, control device 100 includes a first reference impedance 106. The first reference impedance 106 may include a predefined ohmic resistor. In this example, the first reference impedance 106 is formed by a predefined resistor. The first reference impedance 106 is not part of integrated circuit 104. The first reference impedance 106 and integrated circuit 104 may be configured to be physically separate from each other. Control device 100 may include other parts and / or components.

[0037] Integrated circuit 104 includes a trigger output 108. The trigger output 108 is used to couple to a pyrotechnic control switch 110. Integrated circuit 104 is configured to generate a trigger signal at the trigger output 108. The trigger signal can be configured to trigger the pyrotechnic control switch 110, specifically, to ignite it. In this example, the trigger signal can be configured to transmit power to the pyrotechnic control switch 110 and also represent a control signal that triggers the pyrotechnic control switch. Thus, the trigger signal can provide power to the pyrotechnic control switch 110 and trigger it.

[0038] In this example, integrated circuit 104 may be configured to receive at least one sensor signal. Furthermore, integrated circuit 104 may be configured to generate a trigger signal based on at least one sensor signal. One of the sensor signals may represent a current in coupling string 206. Integrated circuit 104 may be configured to monitor the current represented by the sensor signal. If the current exceeds a predefined value (predefined current threshold), this exceedance may indicate a fault in system 202. In this example, integrated circuit 104 may be configured to generate a trigger signal in response to whether the current exceeds the predefined value and / or when the current exceeds the predefined value. Otherwise, integrated circuit 104 may not generate a trigger signal. In another example, the sensor signal may represent mechanical acceleration, particularly acceleration acting on system 202. Integrated circuit 104 may be configured to monitor the acceleration represented by the sensor signal. If the acceleration exceeds a predefined value (predefined acceleration threshold), this exceedance may be an indication that the pyrotechnics control switch 110 should disconnect the corresponding electrical connection. In this example, integrated circuit 104 can be configured to generate a trigger signal in response to whether the acceleration exceeds a predefined value and / or when the acceleration exceeds the predefined value. Otherwise, integrated circuit 104 may not generate a trigger signal.

[0039] In this example, integrated circuit 104 may be configured to be powered by battery 168. Integrated circuit 104 may require power to generate a trigger signal. In this example, integrated circuit 104 may obtain the electrical energy required to generate the trigger signal from battery 168. This may occur if and / or when system 202 fails, in this example, when integrated circuit 104 cannot draw power from battery 168, for example, if the electrical connection between battery 168 and integrated circuit 104 for power supply is broken and / or if battery 168 is defective. Therefore, it may be advantageous for integrated circuit 104 to be supplied with electrical energy via another energy source, especially when integrated circuit cannot draw power from battery 168.

[0040] Integrated circuit 104 includes a driver output 186, which may also be referred to as a second driver output 186. Through the second driver output 186, integrated circuit 104 can be coupled to a capacitor 116, which may also be referred to as a storage capacitor 116. The storage capacitor 116 can be configured to store electrical energy. In this example, the storage capacitor 116 can be a second electrical energy source for integrated circuit 104.

[0041] Storage capacitor 116 is a capacitor that can self-discharge over time. Self-discharge can be attributed to the generally limited insulation of the capacitor's dielectric.

[0042] System 202 can be configured to be enabled or disabled. In the deactivated state, system 202 may have no power consumption or very low power consumption. Typically, for this purpose, the individual components of system 202 are deactivated or placed in sleep mode. If system 202 changes from a deactivated state to an activated state, multiple components are activated simultaneously. When the state changes, storage capacitor 116 should also be charged as quickly as possible, so that the charged storage capacitor 116 can be used as an alternative power source for integrated circuit 104.

[0043] Storage capacitor 116 can be coupled to integrated circuit 104 via second driver output 186. In this example, integrated circuit 104 can be used and / or configured to charge storage capacitor 116 via second driver output 186, starting from a change in state from disabled to enabled state of system 102. Fast charging of storage capacitor 116 provides the advantage that it can be used very quickly as an energy source for integrated circuit 104 during or after a state change. However, fast charging of storage capacitor 116 may also have the disadvantage of requiring a large current to charge it quickly, which can lead to correspondingly high dissipation, particularly heat dissipation, in integrated circuit 104. In this context, a trade-off between the time required to charge storage capacitor 116 and the value of the charging current used to charge it can be considered. In some cases, the trade-off may favor charging time, while in others, it may favor a lower charging current. In this context, it is desirable to be able to set the driver signal that can be generated by the integrated circuit 104 at the second driver output 186 as easily and preferably without modifying the integrated circuit 104, so that the corresponding setting corresponds to the desired trade-off.

[0044] Integrated circuit 104 includes a reference input 112 for receiving a reference signal. Furthermore, integrated circuit 104 is configured to generate a driver signal at driver output 186 based on the reference signal. The driver signal is used and / or configured to charge storage capacitor 116, particularly when storage capacitor 116 is coupled to driver output 186. Thus, without modifying integrated circuit 104, it is possible to use the reference signal to adjust the driver signal to charge storage capacitor 116 and achieve a desired trade-off between the charging time for charging storage capacitor 116 and the charging current value used to charge storage capacitor 116. By adjusting the reference signal, a trade-off can be set to favor a shorter charging time or a lower charging current without structural changes to integrated circuit 104. Therefore, the complexity and cost of integrated circuit 104 can be kept low while still ensuring flexibility in the customizability of the trade-off. Control device 100 with integrated circuit 104 can be used in many different applications without requiring a custom integrated circuit 104.

[0045] In this example, integrated circuit 104 can be configured to generate a driver signal at driver output 114 such that the driver signal has a predefined functional dependence on the reference signal. In this example, the driver signal may be proportional to the reference signal, specifically having a maximum deviation of 15%. Instead of proportional dependence, another predefined function may also represent the dependence of the driver signal on the reference signal. The dependence between the reference signal and the driver signal may be related to at least one electrical characteristic of the two signals. In this example, the dependence may be related to the voltage, current, power, or another electrical characteristic of the signals. Thus, the driver signal can be controlled via integrated circuit 104 according to the reference signal.

[0046] Previously, it was explained that the control device 100 includes an integrated circuit 104 and a first reference impedance 106. The first reference impedance 106 is not a component of the integrated circuit 104. The integrated circuit 104 and the first reference impedance 106 can be different and / or separate parts of the control device 100. The reference impedance 106 can be formed by one or more components. In this example, the first reference impedance 106 can be formed by at least one predefined resistor.

[0047] A first reference impedance 106 is coupled to a reference input 112 of integrated circuit 104. The purpose of coupling the first reference impedance 106 to the reference input 112 of integrated circuit 104 can be understood as generating a reference signal at reference input 112, wherein the reference signal depends on the first reference impedance 106. In this example, the current and / or voltage of the reference signal at reference input 112 can be changed via the first reference impedance 106. The current of the reference signal can also be referred to as the reference current. The voltage of the reference signal can also be referred to as the reference voltage.

[0048] In this example, a predefined voltage can be applied between terminal 126 of control device 104 and terminal 124 of the second battery. Terminal 126 may also be referred to as first interface terminal 126. A first reference impedance 106 can be coupled between first interface terminal 126 and first reference input 112. For example, if the resistance value of the first reference impedance 106 decreases, the reference current of the reference signal at reference input 112 can increase. Conversely, if the resistance value of the first reference impedance 106 increases, the reference current of the reference signal at first reference input 112 can decrease. The reference current of the reference signal at first reference input 112 can be adjusted by adjusting the resistance value of the first reference impedance 106. Integrated circuit 104 does not need to be adjusted for the same purpose. Therefore, the first reference impedance 106 provides a relatively easy way to adjust the reference current.

[0049] Previously, it was explained that integrated circuit 104 is configured to generate a driver signal at driver output 186 of integrated circuit 104 based on a reference signal. In the example, integrated circuit 104 can be configured to generate a current for the driver signal at driver output 186 based on a reference current of the reference signal. The driver signal current can also be referred to as drive current 214 or charging current. Figure 4 An example of drive current 214 is schematically indicated. In this example, integrated circuit 104 can be configured to generate drive current 214 of the driver signal at driver output 186 such that drive current 214 has a predefined proportional relationship with reference current of reference signal (specifically, with an acceptable deviation of less than 15%), and / or such that drive current 214 has a predefined functional relationship with reference current (specifically, with an acceptable deviation of less than 15%). Thus, adjusting the resistance value of first reference impedance 106 can adjust the reference current of reference signal at first reference input 112. Furthermore, adjusting the reference current via adjusting the resistance value of first reference impedance 106 can cause analog adjustment of drive current 214 of driver signal at driver output 186. As another effect, adjusting the resistance value of first reference impedance 106 can cause adjustment of drive current 214. No adjustment of integrated circuit 104 is required. Adjusting reference impedance 106 alone is sufficient to achieve adjustment of drive current 214. The control device 100 offers the following advantages: the integrated circuit 104 can be designed to be inexpensive and compact, and the drive current 214 for charging the storage capacitor 116 can be easily adjusted by adjusting the first reference impedance 106 (which can also be inexpensive and requires little effort).

[0050] In this example, the driver output 186 of integrated circuit 104 may also be referred to as the second driver output 186. The second driver output 186 may be coupled to the first driver output 114 of control device 100. In this example, the first driver output 114 of control device 100 may be formed and / or provided by the second driver output 186 of integrated circuit 104. In this example, if storage capacitor 116 is coupled to the first driver output 114 of device 100, the coupling may also simultaneously couple storage capacitor 114 to the second driver output 186 of integrated circuit 100.

[0051] In this example, the second battery terminal 124 of device 100 may be coupled to terminal 136 of integrated circuit 104, also referred to as the second power supply voltage terminal 136. In this example, terminal 136 of integrated circuit 104 may form and / or provide the second battery terminal 124 of device 100.

[0052] In this example, integrated circuit 104 is configured to be supplied with electrical energy from storage capacitor 116 via a second driver output 186. This energy may also be referred to as capacitor energy. Storage capacitor 116 may be coupled between a first driver output 114 and a second battery terminal 124. Storage capacitor 116 may also be coupled to the second driver output 186 of integrated circuit 104 via the first terminal output 114. Storage capacitor 116 may also be coupled to terminal 136 of integrated circuit 104 via the second battery terminal 124. In this example, integrated circuit 104 may be configured to be supplied with power from storage capacitor 116 via the second driver output 186 and terminal 136. Thus, in the event of a failure, for example, system 202, power (capacitor power) may still be supplied to integrated circuit 104 via storage capacitor 116. For example, if an interruption occurs between battery 168 and integrated circuit 104 due to a failure such as a mechanical disconnection of the power supply connection, integrated circuit 104 may continue to operate relying on the electrical energy supplied by storage capacitor 116.

[0053] In this example, when integrated circuit 104 is powered solely by power supplied via the second driver output 186 and the second power supply voltage terminal 136, integrated circuit 104 can be configured to generate trigger signals at trigger outputs 108 and 184. Thus, if integrated circuit 104 is powered solely by capacitor energy from storage capacitor 116, integrated circuit 104 can also be configured to generate trigger signals at trigger outputs 108 and 184. If an interruption occurs between battery 168 and integrated circuit 104 due to a fault, integrated circuit 104 powered by capacitor energy can continue to generate trigger signals to trigger pyrotechnic control switch 110. Triggering of pyrotechnic control switch 110 can cause an interruption between electrical load 204 and battery 168. This improves the safety of system 202.

[0054] In this example, integrated circuit 104 may include a signal generator 182, which may also be referred to as a trigger signal generator 182. The signal generator 182 of integrated circuit 104 may be configured to generate a trigger signal, particularly configured to generate a trigger signal. The signal generator 182 may be coupled to a second trigger output 184 of integrated circuit 104. The second trigger output 184 of integrated circuit 104 may be coupled to a trigger output 108 of control device 100. In this example, the second trigger output 184 of integrated circuit 104 may form and / or provide the trigger output 108 of control device 100. The signal generator 182 may be coupled to a second driver output 186 and terminal 136. The signal generator 182 may be supplied with power, particularly from storage capacitor 116, via the second driver output 186 and terminal 136. Additionally, the signal generator 182 may be coupled to another terminal 178 of integrated circuit 104, where terminal 178 may also be referred to as a first sensor terminal 178. Integrated circuit 104, particularly the associated signal generator 182, may receive sensor signals via the first sensor terminal 178. The sensor signal can be, for example, a current sensor signal representing the value of the current through the connecting string 162. A first sensor terminal 178 can be coupled to a second sensor terminal 180 of the control device 100. In this example, the first sensor terminal 178 may form and / or provide the second sensor terminal 180. The second sensor terminal 180 can be coupled to a sensor 164. The sensor 164 can be a current sensor configured to detect the current through the connecting string 162. The current sensor 164 can be configured to generate a sensor signal as a current sensor signal representing the value of the current through the connecting string 162.

[0055] In this example, sensors other than the current sensor 164 may be coupled to the second sensor terminal 180. For example, an accelerometer may be provided to the battery connection unit 102 and coupled to the second sensor terminal 180. The accelerometer may be configured to detect the acceleration of the battery connection unit 102. Furthermore, the accelerometer may be configured to generate a sensor signal representing the detected acceleration.

[0056] Signal generator 182 can be configured to trigger or not trigger the generation of a trigger signal based on a sensor signal received via the first sensor terminal 178. In this example, signal generator 162 may trigger the generation of a trigger signal only if the sensor value represented by the sensor signal exceeds a predefined threshold. Otherwise, signal generator 162 may be configured not to trigger the generation of a trigger signal.

[0057] As previously explained, integrated circuit 104 can be configured to generate a driver signal at driver output 186 suitable for charging storage capacitor 116, provided that the storage capacitor is coupled to driver output 186 or coupled to driver output 186 via another driver output 114.

[0058] Figure 3 An example of a charge curve 210 is shown schematically, representing an example of the charge state 118 of a storage capacitor 116 over time t. Figure 4 An example of a current curve 220 representing an example of a drive current 214 over time t is schematically shown. Current curve 220 and charge curve 210 may be correlated with each other. Based on the drive current 214 according to current curve 220, the charge state 118 of storage capacitor 116 may evolve according to charge curve 210. In this example, current curve 220 starts with an initial value 216, and integrated circuit 104 may be configured to generate the initial value 216 of drive current 214 based on a reference current of a reference signal at first reference input 112. Due to drive current 214, charge state 118 of storage capacitor 116 may increase, as schematically shown, for example, in charge curve 210. As drive current 214 decreases, charge state 118 may increase with a more moderate slope, as schematically shown, for example, in charge curve 220. However, the shape of charge curve 220 may depend particularly on the initial value 216 of charging current 214, and, logically, on the reference current of the reference signal. Therefore, integrated circuit 104 can generate drive current 214 according to reference current.

[0059] It can also be seen from charge curve 210 and current curve 220 that charge state 118 is a function of drive current 214. The smaller the drive current 214 along current curve 220, the larger the charge state 118 along charge curve 210. Therefore, charge state 118 can be inferred from drive current 214. In this example, the functional relationship between drive current 214 and charge state 118 can be stored by integrated circuit 104.

[0060] In this example, integrated circuit 104 is configured to determine the charge state 118 of storage capacitor 116 based on drive current 214. To determine charge state 118, integrated circuit 104 may additionally utilize an initial value 216 of drive current 214. The initial value 214 of drive current 214 may be determined and / or controlled by a reference current of a reference signal. Integrated circuit 104 may also use the reference current of the reference signal to determine charge state 118. It has been previously explained that charge state 118 can be a function of drive current 214. To determine charge state based on drive current 214, integrated circuit 104 may use a functional relationship between currents.

[0061] In this example, integrated circuit 104 is configured such that if the charge state 118 of storage capacitor 116 has reached at least a predefined reference charge state 120, integrated circuit 104 is able to generate a trigger signal at trigger output 184. Reference charge state 120 may represent, for example, storage capacitor 116 being charged to 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90%. At 100%, storage capacitor 116 will be fully charged. In this example, once the charge state 118 of storage capacitor 116 reaches reference state 120, the voltage and / or electrical energy provided by storage capacitor 116 is sufficient to power integrated circuit 104, enabling and / or preparing integrated circuit 104 to generate a trigger signal at trigger output 184. If the charge state 118 of storage capacitor 114 is greater than reference state 120, integrated circuit 104 is able and / or prepared to generate a trigger signal at trigger output 184. If the charge state 118 of the storage capacitor 114 is less than the reference state 120, then in this example, the integrated circuit 104 is unable and / or not ready to generate a trigger signal at the trigger output 184. In the latter case, for example, the voltage and / or energy provided by the storage capacitor 116 may be insufficient for the integrated circuit 104 to generate a trigger signal at the trigger output 184.

[0062] Whether integrated circuit 104 can generate a trigger signal at trigger output 184 does not mean that integrated circuit 104 actually has to generate a trigger signal. If integrated circuit 104 is able to generate a trigger signal, especially when ready, then integrated circuit 104 has the ability to trigger a trigger signal without actually having to trigger it.

[0063] The trigger signal can be activated via integrated circuit 104 based on the sensor signal. Refer to the preceding explanation for this case.

[0064] In this example, control device 100 includes a first battery terminal 122 and a second battery terminal 124. Integrated circuit 104 is coupled to both the first and second battery terminals 122 and 124. A signal connection extends from a first power supply voltage terminal 142 of integrated circuit 104 to the first battery terminal 122 of control device 100. Additionally, another signal connection extends from a second power supply voltage terminal 136 of integrated circuit 104 to the second battery terminal 124 of control device 100. In this example, battery 168 is configured to provide battery voltage across a first battery connector 170 and a second battery connector 172 of battery 168. Battery voltage can be provided by the battery between the first battery connector 170 and the second battery connector 172. The first battery connector 170 can be connected to a first battery input terminal 158 of battery connection unit 202, wherein the second battery connector 172 can be connected to a second battery input terminal 174. The first battery terminal of control device 100 can be connected to the first battery input terminal 158. The second battery terminal 124 of control device 100 can be connected to the second battery input terminal of battery connection unit 102. Therefore, voltage can be supplied to the control device 100 via the first battery terminal 122 and the second battery terminal 124. As another effect, the battery 168 can be indirectly coupled to the first battery terminal 122 and the second battery terminal 124, causing the battery voltage supplied by the battery 168 to drop between the first battery terminal 122 and the second battery terminal. In this example, the battery voltage can also drop between the first power supply voltage terminal 142 and the second power supply voltage terminal 136 of the integrated circuit 104. Battery voltage can also be supplied to the integrated circuit 104.

[0065] The control device 100 may additionally include another end 126, also referred to as the first interface terminal 126. The control device 100 may be configured to receive a signal at the interface terminal 126, also referred to as a first base signal. The first base signal may include a constant, predefined first voltage, also referred to as a base voltage. Furthermore, a first reference impedance 106 may be coupled between the first interface terminal 126 of the control device 100 and a first reference input 112 of the integrated circuit 104. In this example, the first reference impedance 112 may be integrated into an electrical connection extending from the first interface terminal 126 to the first reference input 112.

[0066] The first base voltage of the first base signal can be adjusted based on the voltage level at the second battery terminal 124. The first base voltage can represent the voltage drop between the first interface terminal 126 and the second battery terminal 124. A desired reference signal can be generated at the first reference input 112 by selecting the first base voltage of the first base signal and / or by selecting the first reference impedance 106. In this example, a voltage source can be coupled between the first interface terminal 126 and the second battery terminal 124, such that the base voltage drops between the first interface terminal 126 and the second battery terminal 124. The voltage provided by the voltage source can be less than the battery voltage of the battery 168. The first reference impedance 106 can be formed by a suitable design of the control device 100. Thus, the reference signal can be easily adjusted via the first reference impedance 106 and the base voltage without the need for custom integrated circuit 104.

[0067] Figure 1 An example of a control device 100 is schematically shown. As can be seen from this example of the control device 100, at least one unit 198 of the integrated circuit 104 may be coupled between a first reference input 112 and a second power supply voltage terminal 136. Unit 198 may also be referred to as main unit 198. Unit 198 may include multiple components.

[0068] Figure 2 Another example of system 202 and another example of control device 100 are illustrated schematically. Further explanations of control device 100 may also apply independently of system 202. In one example, control device 100 may be a separate device independent of system 202. In another example, control device 100 may be part of system 202. The following explanations may be applied in a similar manner to all examples.

[0069] In this example, integrated circuit 104 may be configured to generate a predefined voltage as a reference voltage for a reference signal at a first reference input 112 of integrated circuit 104. Integrated circuit 104 may include a first circuit string 134 extending from the first reference input 112 to a second power supply voltage terminal 136. In this example, a voltage regulation unit 138 may be integrated into the first circuit string 134. The voltage regulation unit 138 may be configured to adjust the resistance of the first circuit string 134 such that a reference voltage for the reference signal exists at the first reference input 112. If, when the reference signal is applied to the first reference input 112, the voltage level at the first reference input 112 becomes less than the predefined reference voltage, the voltage control unit 138 may increase the resistance in the first circuit string 134 until the voltage level corresponds to the predefined reference voltage. In this example, if the voltage level at the first reference input 112 becomes higher than the predefined reference voltage, the voltage control unit 138 may decrease the resistance in the first circuit string 134 until the voltage level corresponds to the predefined reference voltage. In this example, integrated circuit 104 may therefore be configured to set the reference voltage to a predefined constant voltage. The predefined voltage used as a reference voltage offers the following advantages: the reference current of the reference signal can (especially independently) be used to induce corresponding changes in the driver signal (particularly the drive current of the driver signal). Thus, the driver signal, particularly the drive current of the driver signal, can be controlled via the reference current of the reference signal. The reference current of the reference signal can be controlled via the first reference impedance 106. It is possible to adjust the first reference impedance 106 with minimal effort without altering the integrated circuit 104. Consequently, the adjustment of the drive current of the drive signal can be achieved with minimal effort and low cost, while being particularly easy to adjust for different use cases and applications.

[0070] In this example, integrated circuit 104 can be configured to control the drive current of the driver signal at driver output 186 based on the reference current of the reference signal at the first reference input 112. Thus, the reference current can be used to change the drive current of the driver signal without altering integrated circuit 104. For example, a higher drive current for faster charging of storage capacitor 116 can be achieved by adjusting the reference current through a corresponding adjustment of the first reference impedance 106. Therefore, only the adjustment of the first reference impedance 106 is required to achieve faster charging of storage capacitor 116 and / or the desired balanced charge of storage capacitor 116.

[0071] In this example, integrated circuit 104 can be configured to control the drive current of the drive signal such that the drive current is proportional to the reference current. Thus, an increase in the reference current will cause a proportional increase in the drive current. In this example, there may be a predefined factor K representing the proportional relationship between the reference current and the drive current. The drive current can be K times the reference current. Due to factors such as manufacturing tolerances or other deviations, the ratio between the reference current and the drive current may have small deviations. In this example, integrated circuit 104 can be configured to control the drive current based on the reference current, such that the drive current and the reference current are at a predefined ratio, but with a permissible deviation of less than 10%, less than 15%, or less than 20%. Thus, the actual ratio between the reference current and the drive current may deviate from the predefined ratio by less than 10%, less than 15%, or less than 20%. This limited permissible deviation allows the drive current to be adjusted simply, inexpensively, and with sufficient precision by adjusting the first reference impedance 106.

[0072] In this example, integrated circuit 104 includes a second circuit string 140. The second circuit string 140 extends from a first power supply voltage terminal 142 of integrated circuit 104 to a second power supply voltage terminal 136. Additionally, the integrated circuit may include a first current mirror circuit 144. The first current mirror circuit 144 may include two transistors 146 and 148, which may be referred to as a first sensor transistor 146 and a first mirror transistor 148. The first sensor transistor 146 may be integrated into the first circuit string 134. The first mirror transistor 148 may be integrated into the second circuit string 140. Furthermore, the first mirror transistor 148 may be coupled to the first sensor transistor 146 such that the first mirror transistor 148 induces a current in the second circuit string 140 at a predefined first ratio to a reference current; this current is referred to as the inter-string current. The reference current flows through the first circuit string 134. For the first ratio, a deviation of less than 10%, less than 15%, or less than 20% may be permitted. Therefore, the inter-circuit current in the second circuit string 140 can be controlled by the reference current in the first circuit string 134, so that the inter-circuit current is in a first ratio with the reference current, but specifically, it has an allowable deviation of less than 10%, less than 15%, or less than 20% from the first ratio.

[0073] In this example, integrated circuit 104 includes a third circuit string 150. The third circuit string 150 extends from a first power supply voltage terminal 142 to a driver output 186. Additionally, integrated circuit 104 may include a second current mirror circuit 152. The second current mirror circuit 152 may include two transistors 154 and 156, which may be referred to as a second sensor transistor 154 and a second mirror transistor 156. The second sensor transistor 154 may be integrated into the second circuit string 140. The second mirror transistor 156 may be integrated into the third circuit string 150. Furthermore, the second mirror transistor 156 may be coupled to the second sensor transistor 154 such that the second mirror transistor 156 maintains a predefined second ratio between the drive current in the third circuit string 150 and the inter-circuit current. For this second ratio, a deviation of less than 10%, less than 15%, or less than 20% is permissible. Therefore, the drive current in the third circuit string 150 can be controlled by the inter-circuit current in the second circuit string 140, such that the drive current and the inter-circuit current are at a second ratio, but specifically, the permissible deviation from the second ratio is less than 10%, less than 15%, or less than 20%. Previously, it was shown that the inter-circuit current can be controlled via a reference current, such that the inter-circuit current is specifically at a first ratio to the reference current. Thus, the drive current can also depend on the reference current. In the example, the drive current can depend on the reference current by a ratio resulting from the product of the first and second ratios.

[0074] The two current mirror circuits 144 and 152 offer the advantage that, instead of providing power for charging the storage capacitor 116 via the first reference input 112, the corresponding power can be provided via the first power supply voltage terminal 142 and the second power supply voltage terminal 136. This allows for particularly easy and precise setting of the reference current for the reference signal specifically via the first reference impedance 106.

[0075] Previously, it was explained Figure 3 An example of a charge curve 210 for storage capacitor 116 is schematically shown. The higher the charge state 118, the higher the voltage provided by storage capacitor 116. If storage capacitor 116 is coupled between the first driver output 114 and the second battery terminal 124, the voltage of storage capacitor 116 drops between the driver output 114 and the second battery terminal 124. In this example, if the charge level 118 of storage capacitor 116 has reached the reference charge level 120, the voltage provided by storage capacitor 116 is sufficient to operate integrated circuit 104, specifically, sufficient to operate integrated circuit 104 such that integrated circuit 104 can generate a trigger signal at trigger output 184. In this example, if the reference charge state 120 is reached, the voltage provided by storage capacitor 116 is high enough to operate the trigger signal generator 182 of integrated circuit 104, enabling the trigger signal generator to generate a trigger signal at trigger output 184.

[0076] Capacitors typically have dielectrics with limited insulating effects. Limited insulating effects can cause capacitors to self-discharge over time. In this context, if the voltage supplied by storage capacitor 116 drops to or below a predefined voltage, referred to as a first threshold voltage, it is desirable for storage capacitor 116 to be recharged.

[0077] In this example, integrated circuit 104 may include another transceiver 194 referred to as a switching transceiver 194. The switching transceiver 194 may be integrated into a second circuit string 140 of integrated circuit 104. Furthermore, integrated circuit 104 may be configured to control the switching transceiver 194 based on the voltage of a driver signal (also referred to as the driver voltage of the driver signal), such that if and / or once the driver voltage is less than a predefined first threshold voltage, the switching transceiver 194 changes to a closed state; otherwise, it switches to an open state and / or remains in an off state.

[0078] In this example, integrated circuit 104 may include a monitoring unit 187. Monitoring unit 187 may be coupled to a driver output 186 of integrated circuit 104, and specifically, to a second power supply voltage terminal 136 of integrated circuit 104. Monitoring unit 187 may be configured to measure the driver voltage of the driver signal at driver output 186. Furthermore, monitoring unit 187 may be configured to control a switching transceiver 194 such that if and / or once the driver voltage is less than a predefined first threshold voltage, the switching transceiver changes to a closed state; otherwise, it controls the switching transceiver 194 to be in an open state. Monitoring unit 187 may include another end through which it receives the second threshold voltage. Monitoring unit 187 may include a measurement string in which a third impedance 188 and a fourth impedance 190 are integrated. The measurement string may be coupled between driver output 186 and second power supply voltage terminal 136.

[0079] Additionally, the monitoring unit 187 may include a comparator 192. The comparator 192 may be coupled to a node of the measurement string, wherein the node is located between a third impedance 188 and a fourth impedance 190. Furthermore, the comparator 192 may be coupled to a terminal of the monitoring unit 187 such that a second threshold voltage can be provided to the comparator 192. The comparator 192 may be configured to compare the second threshold voltage with the voltage at the node of the measurement line. The voltage at the node of the measurement line is also referred to as the measurement voltage. The measurement voltage may represent the drive voltage of the drive signal. If the storage capacitor 116 is coupled to the driver output 114, the driver voltage may correspond to the voltage of the storage capacitor 116. Thus, the measurement voltage may represent the voltage of the storage capacitor 116. In this example, the measurement voltage may be smaller than the voltage of the storage capacitor 116 by a predefined factor or smaller than the driver voltage by a predefined factor. Similarly, the second threshold voltage may be smaller than the first threshold voltage by a predefined factor. The output of the comparator 192 may be coupled to a switching transistor 194 such that the comparator 192 can control the switching transistor 194. In this example, comparator 192 can control switching transistor 194 to either a closed or open state. Comparator 192 can be configured to control switching transistor 194 such that if and / or once the measured voltage is less than a second threshold voltage, switching transistor 194 changes to a closed state, and controls switching transistor 194 to otherwise remain in an open state.

[0080] In this example, the switching device 100 includes an electrical connection string 128, which may also be referred to as a feedback string 128 or a feedback loop 128. The feedback string 128 extends from the second driver output 186 of the integrated circuit 104 to the first reference input 112 of the integrated circuit 104. The feedback loop 128 extends outside the integrated circuit 104. In this example, the feedback string 128 is at least partially or completely outside the integrated circuit 104. A predefined second reference impedance 130 may be integrated into the feedback string 128. The second reference impedance 130 may also be arranged outside the integrated circuit 104. The second reference impedance 130 may include a predefined ohmic resistor. In this example, the second reference impedance 130 is formed by a predefined resistor. The switching device 100 may additionally include a diode 132 integrated into the feedback string 128. The forward direction of the diode 132 may point towards the first reference input 112. Thus, current (also referred to as feedback current) can flow from the second driver output 186 to the first reference input 112 via the feedback string 128, but not in the reverse direction.

[0081] Previously, it was explained that the first reference input 112 of integrated circuit 104 is configured to receive a reference signal. The current of the reference signal can also be referred to as the reference current. In the example above, the reference current may include two components. For example, the first component of the reference current can be understood as the current flowing to the first reference input 112 through the first reference impedance 106. The first reference impedance 106 may be coupled between the first interface terminal 126 and the first reference input 112. Thus, the current through the first reference impedance 106 and / or the first component of the reference current can be controlled by the voltage at the first interface terminal 126 and / or the first reference impedance 106. The second component of the reference current can be understood, for example, as the current through the feedback string 128.

[0082] Figure 5 An example of a voltage curve 226 for the voltage 224 of the storage capacitor 116 is schematically shown. The voltage 224 of the storage capacitor 116 may also be referred to as the capacitor voltage 224. The capacitor voltage can drop between the first driver output 114 and the second battery terminal 124. Thus, the capacitor voltage 224 can also drop between the second driver output 186 and the second power supply voltage terminal 136.

[0083] exist Figure 2 In the example of the control device 100 schematically shown, it has been explained that the third circuit string 150 can extend between the first power supply voltage terminal 142 and the second driver terminal 186. The second mirror transistor 156 can be integrated into the third circuit string 150. Thus, the third mirror transistor 156 can be used to control the drive current 214 at the second driver output 186. When the capacitor voltage of the storage capacitor 116 increases (corresponding to the voltage of the driver signal), the voltage drop across the second mirror transistor 156 decreases. The voltage drop across the second mirror transistor 156 can also be referred to as the transistor voltage. During the charging process of the storage capacitor 116, the capacitor voltage 224 will increase. This effect is... Figure 5 The voltage curve 226 is schematically illustrated in the diagram. The capacitor voltage 224 of the storage capacitor 116 may include a certain associated initial value 227 at the start of the charging process. Similarly, the transistor voltage across the third mirror transistor 156 may also include a certain associated initial value at the start of the charging process. In this example, the capacitor voltage 224 increases during the charging process, while the transistor voltage decreases. Thus, lower power is transferred via the third mirror transistor 156. The reduced power used to charge the storage capacitor 116 can be at least partially compensated via the feedback string 128. As the capacitor voltage 224 increases during the charging process, the voltage drop across the second reference impedance 130 increases, and the second component of the reference current increases. Thus, the feedback string 128 can be used to increase the reference current as the capacitor voltage 224 increases.

[0084] Previously, it was explained that integrated circuit 104 can be configured to generate the drive current of the driver signal at the second driver output based on the reference current of the reference signal at the first reference input 112. In the example, if the feedback string 128 increases the reference current as the capacitor voltage 224 increases, the effect may be that the driver current 214 also increases as the capacitor voltage 224 increases. As another effect, the drive current 214 can increase during the charging process of the storage capacitor 116. Figure 6 An example of the increased drive current 214 under the influence of feedback string 128 is shown schematically.

[0085] Figure 7 An example of power 234 transferred to the storage capacitor during the charging process is schematically shown. Power 234 can also be referred to as transferred power 234. As previously explained, the transistor voltage across the second mirror transistor 156 decreases as the capacitor voltage 224 increases. As a result of the decreasing transistor voltage and the increasing drive current 214 during the charging process, the power 234 transferred to the storage capacitor 216 can be implemented to be approximately constant, or have only a small deviation between an initial value 238 and a maximum value 240 during the charging process of the storage capacitor 116. In this example, the change of transferred power 234 over time is... Figure 7 The power curve 236 is schematically shown in the figure. In this example, the maximum value 240 of the transmitted power 234 may deviate from the initial value 238 by less than 25%, less than 20%, or less than 15%.

[0086] The power dissipation and / or heat generation at the second mirror transistor 156 can depend on the transfer power 234. Specifically, the level of power dissipation can be given at an acceptablely high level without expanding to an excessively high level, while allowing for rapid charging of the storage capacitor 116. Furthermore, the power dissipation curve (not shown) can be similar to the curve of the transfer power 234. As previously explained, the transfer power during the charging process of the storage capacitor 116 can be controlled by the feedback string 128, making it possible to achieve a deviation of only a small amount from the initial value 238 of the transfer power 234. Thus, the power dissipation and / or heat generation at the second mirror transistor 156 also change only slightly during the charging process of the storage transistor 116. As another effect, the second mirror transistor 156 can be utilized more efficiently during the charging process of the storage transistor 116. At the same time, the storage capacitor 116 can be charged faster. In order to reduce the charging time for charging the storage capacitor 116, it is not necessary to increase the size of the structure of the second mirror transistor 156, since the heat generation at the second storage transistor 116 changes only slightly. As another effect, the threshold voltage 228 of capacitor voltage 234 is achieved faster and more efficiently, where threshold voltage 228 corresponds to reference state 120 of storage capacitor 116. As another effect, feedback string 128 can positively help achieve reference state 120 faster and more efficiently, and generates acceptable heat at second mirror transistor 156.

[0087] Figure 1 and 2 Two examples of battery connection unit 102 are schematically shown. Battery connection unit 102 may include control device 100 and storage capacitor 116. Battery connection unit 102 may include a first battery input terminal 158 and a first battery output terminal 160. In addition, battery connection unit 102 may include pyrotechnic control switch 110. Pyrotechnic control switch 110 may be integrated into connector string 162, which may extend from the first battery input terminal 158 to the first battery output terminal 160. Pyrotechnic control switch 110 may be coupled to control device 110, specifically to a first trigger output 108 of control device 110. The first trigger output 108 of control device 110 may be coupled to a second trigger output 184 of integrated circuit 104. Integrated circuit 104 and / or control device 110 may be configured to have the ability to generate trigger signals at the first and / or second trigger outputs 108 using electrical energy from storage capacitor 116.

[0088] In this example, battery connection unit 102 may include a current sensor 164. The current sensor 164 may be configured to detect current flowing through connection string 162. The current sensor 164 may be configured to generate a current sensor signal representing the value of the current flowing through connection string 162. The current sensor 164 may be coupled to a second sensor terminal 180 of control device 100. The second sensor terminal 180 may be coupled to a first sensor terminal 178 of integrated circuit 104. In this example, the second sensor terminal 178 of integrated circuit 104 may form the first sensor terminal 180 of control device 100. The current sensor 164 may be configured to transmit a current sensor signal to the second sensor terminal 180 and / or the first sensor terminal 178. Integrated circuit 104 may be configured to generate a trigger signal to trigger pyrotechnic control switch 110 in response to a current sensor signal representing the battery current flowing through connection string 162 that meets or exceeds a predefined threshold.

[0089] Figure 8 An example of method 166 for controlling device 100 is shown schematically.

[0090] The method is referenced in a similar manner to the advantageous explanations, preferred features, technical effects, and advantages previously explained for integrated circuit 104, control device 100, and / or battery connection unit 102.

[0091] In the example, method 166 includes the following steps:

[0092] a) A reference signal is generated at the reference input via and depending on the first reference impedance.

[0093] b) Receive a reference signal at the reference input of the IC, and

[0094] c) A driver signal is generated at the driver output via the IC, depending on the reference signal, for charging the storage capacitor.

[0095] Although the exemplary embodiments described herein focus on apparatuses, systems, and methods of using them, this disclosure is not necessarily limited to the example embodiments shown herein.

[0096] The systems and methods described herein may be embodied, at least in part, by computer programs or multiple computer programs, which may exist in various forms, both in use and in development, either on a single computer system or across multiple computer systems. For example, these computer programs may exist as software programs in the form of source code, object code, executable code, or other formats comprising program instructions for performing certain steps. Any of these formats may be embodied, in compressed or uncompressed form, on a computer-readable medium that may include storage devices and signals.

[0097] As used herein, the term "computer" refers to any electronic device that includes processors such as general-purpose central processing units (CPUs), dedicated processors, or microcontrollers. A computer is capable of receiving data (input), performing a series of predetermined operations on the data, and producing results in the form of information or signals (output). Depending on the context, the term "computer" will specifically refer to a processor or more generally to a processor associated with a collection of related components contained within a single chassis or housing.

[0098] The term "processor" or "processing unit" refers to data processing circuitry, which can be a microprocessor, coprocessor, microcontroller, microcomputer, central processing unit, field-programmable gate array (FPGA), programmable logic circuitry, and / or any circuitry that manipulates signals (analog or digital signals) based on operation instructions stored in memory. The term "memory" refers to storage circuitry or multiple storage circuitry, such as read-only memory, random access memory, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, static memory, dynamic memory, flash memory, cache memory, and / or any circuitry that stores digital information.

[0099] As used herein, "computer-readable medium" or "storage medium" can be any component capable of containing, storing, transmitting, propagating, or transmitting a computer program for use by or in conjunction with an instruction execution system, device, or apparatus. Computer-readable media can be, for example, but not limited to, electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor systems, devices, apparatuses, or propagation media. Further specific examples of computer-readable media (a non-exhaustive list) may include: electrical connections having one or more wires, portable computer disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), optical fiber, portable compressed optical disc read-only memory (CDROM), digital versatile optical disc (DVD), Blu-ray disc (BD), and memory cards.

[0100] It should be noted that the above embodiments have been described with reference to different subjects. Specifically, some embodiments may be described with reference to claims of the method class, while other embodiments may be described with reference to claims of the device class. However, those skilled in the art will understand from the foregoing that, unless otherwise indicated, any combination of features related to different subjects, specifically, a combination of features of the method class claims and features of the device class claims, is also considered to be disclosed with this document, except for any combination of features belonging to one type of subject matter.

[0101] Additionally, it should be noted that the accompanying drawings are schematic. Similar or identical elements are indicated by the same reference numerals in different drawings. Furthermore, it should be noted that, in order to provide a concise description of illustrative embodiments, implementation details that are customary to those skilled in the art may not be described. It should be understood that in the development of any such implementation, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific objectives, such as complying with system-related and business-related constraints, which may differ between different implementations. Furthermore, it should be understood that such development work can be complex and time-consuming, but is merely a routine task for those skilled in the art in designing, manufacturing, and producing.

[0102] Finally, it should be noted that those skilled in the art should be able to devise numerous alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Any reference numerals placed in parentheses in the claims should not be construed as limiting the claims. The words “comprise” or “comprising” do not exclude the presence of other elements or steps besides those listed in the claims. The word “a” preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. The measures recited in the claims can be implemented by means of hardware comprising several different elements and / or by means of a suitably programmed processor. In a device claim listing several components, several of these components may be embodied by the same item of hardware. The fact that certain measures are recited in different appendix claims does not mean that combinations of these measures cannot be used to gain an advantage.

[0103] Unless otherwise stated, terms such as “first” and “second” are used to arbitrarily distinguish the elements described by such terms. Therefore, these terms are not necessarily intended to indicate the temporal or other priority order of such elements.

Claims

1. A control device for a battery connection unit, characterized by, The control device comprises: an integrated circuit, IC, and a first reference impedance, wherein the IC comprises a trigger output for coupling to a pyrotechnic control switch, wherein the IC is configured to generate a trigger signal at the trigger output for triggering the pyrotechnic control switch, wherein the IC comprises a reference input for receiving a reference signal, wherein the first reference impedance is coupled to the reference input to generate the reference signal at the reference input in dependence on the first reference impedance, wherein the IC comprises a driver output for coupling to a storage capacitor, and wherein the IC is configured to generate a driver signal at the driver output for charging the storage capacitor in dependence on the reference signal.

2. The control device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that The IC is configured to be supplied with capacitor energy from the storage capacitor via the driver output, and wherein the IC is configured to be powered by the capacitor energy to generate the trigger signal.

3. A control device according to any preceding claim, characterised in that, The IC is configured to detect a charge state of the storage capacitor based on the driver signal and / or the reference signal, and wherein the IC is configured to be ready to generate the trigger signal at the trigger output as soon as the charge state of the storage capacitor reaches at least a predefined reference charge state.

4. A control device according to any preceding claim, characterised in that, The control device comprises a first battery terminal and a second battery terminal, wherein the IC is coupled to the first battery terminal and the second battery terminal, wherein the control device comprises a first interface terminal, wherein the control device is configured to receive a predefined first base voltage at the first interface terminal, and wherein the first reference impedance is coupled between the first interface terminal and the reference input of the IC.

5. A control device according to any preceding claim, characterised in that, The IC is configured to generate a predefined voltage at the reference input of the IC as a reference voltage of the reference signal.

6. A control device according to any preceding claim, characterised in that, The IC is configured to control a driver current of the driver signal in dependence on a reference current of the reference signal.

7. A control device according to any preceding claim, characterised in that, The IC is configured to control the driver current such that the driver current is proportional to the reference current, in particular at a predetermined ratio which allows for a deviation of less than 15%.

8. A control device according to any preceding claim, characterised in that, The control device comprises a feedback loop coupled between the driver output of the IC and the reference input of the IC, and wherein a second reference impedance is integrated in the feedback loop.

9. A battery connection unit, characterized by comprises: a control device according to any one of the preceding claims, and a storage capacitor coupled to the driver output.

10. A method for controlling a device, the control device comprising an integrated circuit (IC) and a first reference impedance, the IC comprising a firing output for coupling to a pyrotechnic control switch, the IC comprising a reference input, the first reference impedance coupled to the reference input, the IC comprising a driver output, the IC comprising a driver output for coupling to a storage capacitor, the IC configured to generate a firing signal at the firing output via energy of the storage capacitor for firing the pyrotechnic control switch, characterized in that, The method comprises the following steps: a) generating a reference signal at the reference input via and depending on the first reference impedance, b) receiving a reference signal at the reference input of the IC, and c) generating a driver signal at the driver output via the IC for charging the storage capacitor in dependence on the reference signal.

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