A reconfigurable battery pack interconnect

Abstract

The application provides a reconfigurable battery pack interconnection connector, a wiring terminal including a positive electrode wiring terminal and a negative electrode wiring terminal for accessing a battery cluster loop; a wiring seat including a positive electrode wiring seat and a negative electrode wiring seat for connecting positive and negative electrodes of a battery pack; two electrically controlled switches respectively located between the positive electrode wiring seat and the positive electrode wiring terminal and between the negative electrode wiring seat and the negative electrode wiring terminal; and the electrically controlled switch is a single-pole three-throw relay. By adopting a single-pole three-throw relay as an electrically controlled switch and cooperating with a bypass wire, three states of battery pack access, floating and bypass can be flexibly switched. When the battery pack needs to be overhauled, the floating state is switched to ensure operation safety, and when the battery pack fails, the bypass state is switched to ensure continuous operation of the battery cluster loop, avoid system shutdown and improve the continuity and flexibility of system operation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of battery connection technology, and more specifically to a reconfigurable battery pack connector. Background Technology

[0002] In systems where multiple battery packs work collaboratively, the stability, flexibility, and safety of the connections between battery packs directly affect the overall system's operating efficiency and reliability. Existing battery pack connectors are mostly fixed connections, only allowing for single-pack access and unable to flexibly switch battery pack operating states according to system requirements. When a single battery pack malfunctions and requires repair, maintenance, or replacement, the entire battery cluster circuit must be interrupted, causing system downtime and affecting operational continuity. Furthermore, existing connectors lack effective status monitoring and adaptive protection mechanisms, making them prone to safety hazards due to overcurrent, overheating, and other issues. Their dispersed structure also leads to inconvenient installation and poor adaptability, failing to meet the needs of different scenarios.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need to provide an improved technical solution that addresses the shortcomings of the existing technology. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art described above. This invention provides a reconfigurable battery pack connector.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: A reconfigurable battery pack connector, comprising: The terminal block includes a positive terminal block and a negative terminal block, which are used to connect to the battery cluster circuit; A terminal block, comprising a positive terminal block and a negative terminal block, for connecting the positive and negative terminals of a battery pack; Two electrical control switches are located between the positive terminal block and the positive terminal, and between the negative terminal block and the negative terminal, respectively. The electronic control switch is a single-pole three-throw relay, and the main terminals of the two electronic control switches are respectively connected to the positive terminal and the negative terminal. The first moving connection points of the two electronically controlled switches are respectively connected to the positive terminal block and the negative terminal block; Both of the second moving connection points of the two aforementioned electronically controlled switches are floating. The third moving connection points of the two electronically controlled switches are respectively connected to the two ends of the bypass wire.

[0006] Preferably, the connector further includes a system controller, which is connected to the electronic switch to control the switching of the internal circuitry of the electronic switch.

[0007] Preferably, the system controller is connected to a corresponding control terminal.

[0008] Preferably, the system controller is connected to the control terminal via a wireless network or a CAN bus.

[0009] Preferably, the positive terminal and the negative terminal are respectively disposed at both ends of the terminal block, and the terminal block is provided with a slot for the corresponding battery pack.

[0010] Preferably, the terminal block, wiring terminals, controller, and electrical control switch are integrated into the same enclosure.

[0011] Preferably, the system controller is connected to a current detection module and a temperature detection module; the current detection module is used to collect the loop current at the positive or negative terminal, and the temperature detection module is used to collect the temperature of the terminal block or the electronic switch; the system controller controls the electronic switch according to the loop current and temperature.

[0012] Preferably, the connector also includes a status indicator light, which is located on one side of the terminal block and connected to the system controller, for indicating whether the current battery pack is in the connected state, floating state, or bypass state.

[0013] Preferably, the system controller controls the electronic control switch to enable the battery pack to have three connection relationships: A positive terminal connects to the positive terminal of the battery pack; the negative terminal connects to the negative terminal of the battery pack. B positive terminal block is floating; negative terminal block is floating. The positive terminal C is connected to the bypass wire; the negative terminal C is connected to the bypass wire. The switching order must be: A→B→C→B→A.

[0014] Beneficial effects: By using a single-pole triple-throw relay as the electronic control switch, in conjunction with a bypass wire, the switching between three states—battery pack connection, floating, and bypass—can be flexibly realized. When the battery pack needs maintenance, switching to the floating state ensures operational safety. When the battery pack fails, switching to the bypass state ensures continuous operation of the battery cluster circuit, avoids system downtime, and improves the continuity and flexibility of system operation. Attached Figure Description

[0015] The accompanying drawings, which form part of this application, are used to provide a further understanding of the invention. The illustrative embodiments of the invention and their descriptions are used to explain the invention and do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. Wherein: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the connector structure in a specific embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] In the diagram: 1. Terminal block; 2. Positive terminal block; 3. Negative terminal block; 4. Electrical control switch; 5. Positive terminal; 6. System controller; 7. Negative terminal; 8. Bypass wire. Detailed Implementation

[0017] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0018] In the description of this invention, the terms "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," and "bottom," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and do not require the invention to be constructed and operated in a specific orientation; therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. The terms "connected" and "linked" used in this invention should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection or a detachable connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through intermediate components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms according to the specific circumstances.

[0019] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described herein can be combined with each other.

[0020] like Figure 1 As shown, this application provides a reconfigurable battery pack connector, including terminals, a connector 1, an electronic control switch 4, and a bypass wire 8. The components work together to achieve reconfigurable switching between three states: battery pack connection, floating, and bypass. The terminals include a positive terminal 5 and a negative terminal 7, made of highly conductive copper. The terminals are fixed by crimping or bolting, allowing stable connection to the main circuit of the battery pack. The connector 1 is used to connect the battery pack and is equipped with a positive connector 2 and a negative connector 3, which are precisely connected to the positive and negative output terminals of the battery pack, respectively. The connector 1 is integrally molded from an insulating and flame-retardant material. There are two electronic control switches 4, connected in series between the positive connector 2 and the positive terminal 5, and between the negative connector 3 and the negative terminal 7, respectively, to control the on / off state and switching direction of the corresponding circuits. Among them, the electronic control switch 4 adopts a single-pole three-throw relay, which has the characteristics of fast response speed, large contact current carrying capacity and strong anti-interference ability. It can adapt to the complex working conditions of the battery pack. It has one main connection point and three moving connection points inside to realize flexible switching of multiple circuits.

[0021] The main terminals of the two electronic control switches 4 are electrically connected to the positive terminal 5 and the negative terminal 7 respectively, forming the main channel for the connector to access the battery pack circuit. The first moving terminals of the two electronic control switches 4 are electrically connected to the positive terminal 2 and the negative terminal 3 respectively, forming the working channel for the battery pack to access the main circuit. When the electronic control switch 4 is switched to the first moving terminal, the battery pack is normally connected to the battery pack circuit and participates in the storage or output of electrical energy. The second moving terminals of the two electronic control switches 4 are both set to a floating state, that is, not connected to any circuit components. When the electronic control switch 4 is switched to the second moving terminal, the battery pack is normally connected to the battery pack circuit and participates in the storage or output of electrical energy. When the second moving connection point is reached, the battery pack is completely disconnected from the main circuit and is in an independent floating state. It can be used for the inspection, maintenance or replacement of the battery pack, avoiding electrical connection with the main circuit during the inspection process and ensuring the operation safety of maintenance personnel. The third moving connection points of the two electronic control switches 4 are respectively connected to the two ends of the bypass wire 8. The bypass wire 8 is a high-temperature resistant flexible wire. When the electronic control switch 4 is switched to the third moving connection point, the battery pack is bypassed, and the main circuit is connected through the bypass wire 8, ensuring that the battery cluster circuit will not be interrupted due to the detachment of a single battery pack, and ensuring the continuity and stability of the entire battery system.

[0022] In another optional embodiment, the connector also integrates a system controller 6. The system controller 6 uses a high-performance microprocessor as the core control unit and has functions such as data acquisition, logic judgment, and instruction output. Its output terminal is connected to two electronic control switches 4. It can accurately control the switching of the internal contacts of the electronic control switches 4 according to a preset program or external control signal, so as to realize the smooth switching of the battery pack between the three states of connection, floating and bypass. There is no obvious current impact during the switching process, avoiding damage to the battery pack and circuit components.

[0023] Furthermore, the system controller 6 is connected to a control terminal, which can be divided into a local control terminal and a remote control terminal. The local control terminal can be directly connected to the system controller 6 for on-site operators to manually issue control commands and view the equipment's operating status. The remote control terminal establishes a connection with the system controller 6 through a communication module to realize remote monitoring and control of the connectors. This allows staff to monitor the battery pack's connection status in real time and remotely adjust the connector's working mode according to system requirements, even when they are far from the equipment site.

[0024] The communication method between the system controller 6 and the control terminal adopts wireless network or CAN bus, which can be flexibly selected according to the actual application scenario. It supports both local control and remote control modes, adapts to the needs of different application scenarios, and facilitates the management and control of connectors.

[0025] In another optional embodiment, the positive terminal block 2 and the negative terminal block 3 are symmetrically arranged at both ends of the terminal block 1, maintaining a reasonable distance between them to avoid discharge between the positive and negative terminals and ensure safe operation of the equipment. The terminal block 1 is provided with a slot that matches the output terminal of the battery pack. The slot ensures precise docking between the battery pack and the terminal block 1. The inner wall of the slot is provided with elastic contact pieces that connect the positive terminal block 2 and the negative terminal block 3. When the battery pack is connected, the elastic contact pieces can tightly fit the output terminals of the battery pack.

[0026] Furthermore, the terminal block 1, wiring terminals, system controller 6, and electrical control switch 4 are all integrated into the same enclosure. The enclosure is made of waterproof, dustproof, and flame-retardant metal or engineering plastic material. This modular design facilitates installation and maintenance.

[0027] In another embodiment, the system controller 6 is also connected to a current detection module and a temperature detection module for real-time monitoring of the connector's operating status. The current detection module uses a high-precision current sensor connected in series at the positive terminal 5 or the negative terminal 7. The temperature detection module uses a temperature sensor, which is installed at key locations on the terminal block 1 and the battery pack, respectively. The system controller 6 has preset current and temperature thresholds. When the collected loop current exceeds the preset threshold, or the temperature exceeds the preset threshold, the system controller 6 will immediately issue a control command to control the electronic control switch 4 to switch, such as cutting off the battery pack connection (switching to a floating state) or activating the bypass function, to avoid safety accidents such as connector damage or battery pack fire caused by overcurrent or overheating.

[0028] The electronically controlled switch sequence of the battery pack connector is used to control the connection relationships between the positive terminal, negative terminal, battery pack positive and negative terminals, and bypass wires. There are a total of three connection relationships: A positive terminal connects to the positive terminal of the battery pack; the negative terminal connects to the negative terminal of the battery pack. B positive terminal block is floating; negative terminal block is floating. The positive terminal C is connected to the bypass wire; the negative terminal C is connected to the bypass wire. The switching order for the three connection relationships of the battery pack connector is A→B→C→B→A, and it cannot be directly from A→C.

[0029] The connector also includes a status indicator light, which uses high-brightness LED beads and is located on one side of the terminal block 1. The system controller 6 controls the on / off state and color of the indicator light according to the switching state of the power switch 4, so that the operator can quickly judge the operating status of the equipment.

[0030] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention shall be within the scope of protection of the pending claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A reconfigurable battery pack connector, characterized in that, include: The terminal block includes a positive terminal block and a negative terminal block, which are used to connect to the battery cluster circuit; A terminal block, comprising a positive terminal block and a negative terminal block, for connecting the positive and negative terminals of a battery pack; Two electrical control switches are located between the positive terminal block and the positive terminal, and between the negative terminal block and the negative terminal, respectively. The electronic control switch is a single-pole three-throw relay, and the main terminals of the two electronic control switches are respectively connected to the positive terminal and the negative terminal. The first moving connection points of the two electronically controlled switches are respectively connected to the positive terminal block and the negative terminal block; Both of the second moving connection points of the two aforementioned electronically controlled switches are floating. The third moving connection points of the two electronically controlled switches are respectively connected to the two ends of the bypass wire.

2. The reconfigurable battery pack connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connector also includes a system controller, which is connected to the electric switch to control the switching of the internal circuitry of the electric switch.

3. The reconfigurable battery pack connector according to claim 2, characterized in that, The system controller is connected to the corresponding control terminal.

4. The reconfigurable battery pack connector according to claim 3, characterized in that, The system controller connects to the control terminal via a wireless network or CAN bus.

5. The reconfigurable battery pack connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The positive terminal and the negative terminal are respectively disposed at both ends of the terminal block, and the terminal block is provided with a slot for the corresponding battery pack.

6. The reconfigurable battery pack connector according to claim 5, characterized in that, The terminal block, wiring terminals, controller, and electrical control switch are integrated into the same enclosure.

7. The reconfigurable battery pack connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The system controller is connected to a current detection module and a temperature detection module; the current detection module is used to collect the loop current at the positive or negative terminal, and the temperature detection module is used to collect the temperature of the terminal block or the electronic switch. The system controller controls the electronic switch according to the loop current and temperature.

8. The reconfigurable battery pack connector according to claim 5, characterized in that, The connector also includes a status indicator light, which is located on one side of the terminal block and connected to the system controller, to indicate whether the current battery pack is in the connected state, floating state, or bypass state.

9. The reconfigurable battery pack connector according to claim 2, characterized in that, The system controller controls the electronically controlled switch to enable the battery pack to have three connection relationships: A positive terminal connects to the positive terminal of the battery pack; the negative terminal connects to the negative terminal of the battery pack. B positive terminal block is floating; negative terminal block is floating. The positive terminal C is connected to the bypass wire; the negative terminal C is connected to the bypass wire. The switching order must be: A→B→C→B→A.

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