SETTING THE SWITCHING TIME TO EQUALIZE THE CHARGE STATE OF A BATTERY STRUCTURE

Abstract

Battery system comprehensive: a first positive terminal a second positive terminal a negative pole, Switch, two battery modules, each of which comprises three strings of battery cells designed to operate at different times to be connected in series and via the first of the switches to the first positive terminal, to be connected in parallel and via the second of the switches to the second positive terminal, and to be disconnected from both the first and second positive terminals, and a switching control module that is designed to to determine the charge levels of the strings of battery cells in each case to determine phase periods based on the charge states to determine the first periods for connecting individual strands in parallel during one of the phases, to divide one of the phases into N periods of equal length, each with N period ends, where one of the N period ends lies at an end of one of the phases, to selectively reduce N, to adjust the first periods to the nearest of the N period ends if a number of the first periods that end closest to one of the N period ends has at least a predetermined value, and to selectively operate the switches based on the phase periods and the periods for the strings of battery cells.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present disclosure is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application No. 17 / 541,115, filed on December 2, 2021. All disclosures of the above-referenced applications are incorporated herein by reference. INTRODUCTION

[0002] The information contained in this section is intended to provide a general context for the disclosure. Work by the presently named inventors, to the extent described in this section, as well as aspects of the description that might not otherwise be considered prior art at the time of filing, are neither expressly nor impliedly admitted as prior art to this disclosure.

[0003] The present disclosure relates to vehicles and, more particularly, to vehicle battery systems.

[0004] Some vehicle types have only an internal combustion engine to generate drive torque. Hybrid vehicles have both an internal combustion engine and one or more electric motors. Some hybrid vehicle types use the electric motor and the internal combustion engine to achieve greater fuel efficiency than using only the internal combustion engine. Some hybrid vehicle types use the electric motor and the internal combustion engine to achieve higher torque output than the internal combustion engine could achieve alone.

[0005] Some types of hybrid vehicles include parallel hybrid vehicles, series hybrid vehicles, and other types of hybrid vehicles. In a parallel hybrid vehicle, the electric motor operates in parallel with the internal combustion engine to combine the power and range advantages of the internal combustion engine with the efficiency and regenerative braking advantages of the electric motor. In a series hybrid vehicle, the internal combustion engine drives a generator to produce electricity for the electric motor, and the electric motor drives a transmission. This allows the electric motor to take over some of the power of the internal combustion engine, allowing the use of a smaller and potentially more efficient internal combustion engine. This application applies to electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and other types of vehicles.

[0006] Document DE 10 2020 102 806 A1 discloses a modular, dynamically allocated capacitance storage system comprising a housing and a control module, wherein the housing includes source terminals, switches, cells, and sensor modules. Source terminals supply power at a first voltage potential to a plurality of first loads and at a second voltage potential to a plurality of second loads. The control module can receive a power request signal and, based thereon, determine a connected configuration for the cells relative to each other and for the plurality of source terminals.

[0007] Document DE 10 2020 102 727 A1 discloses switch control systems and methods for batteries with adjustable capacity, including a plurality of individually housed batteries and a plurality of switches, wherein the switches are configured to connect one of the individually housed batteries to a first and second terminal. A switch control module is configured to vary a voltage applied to a gate of one of the switches at a frequency and to diagnose whether a fault exists based on a voltage across one of the switches. SUMMARY

[0008] In one feature, a battery system comprises: a first positive terminal; a second positive terminal; a negative terminal; switches; two battery modules, each of the two battery modules comprising three strings of battery cells configured to be connected in series and via first of the switches to the first positive terminal at different times, connected in parallel and via second of the switches to the second positive terminal at different times, and disconnected from both the first and second positive terminals;and a switching control module configured to determine respective charge states of the strings of battery cells, to determine respective phase periods based on the charge states, to determine first periods for parallel connecting individual ones of the strings during one of the phases, to divide one of the phases into N periods of equal length, each with N period ends, wherein one of the N period ends lies at one end of one of the phases, to selectively reduce N, to adapt the first periods to the nearest of the N period ends if a number of the first periods that end closest to one of the N period ends has at least a predetermined value, and to selectively actuate the switches based on the phase periods and the periods for the strings of battery cells.;

[0009] For additional features, the default value is two.

[0010] In further features, the switching control module is configured to selectively decrease N based on the number of first periods closest to one of the N period ends.

[0011] In further features, the switching control module is configured to decrement N when the number of first periods closest to one of the N period ends is less than the predetermined value.

[0012] In further features, the switching control module is configured to decrement N by one.

[0013] In further features, the switching control module is configured to connect the two first periods for parallel connection of one of the strands during the one of the phases such that the two first periods connect to each other when two first periods for parallel connection of one of the strands during the one of the phases are separated by a period in which the one of the strands is not to be connected in parallel.

[0014] In further features, the switching control module is configured to set a first period for a first of the strings of one of the battery modules to be longer than a second period for a second of the strings of the one of the battery modules during the charging process when a first state of charge of the first of the strings is less than a second state of charge of the second of the strings.

[0015] In further features, the switching control module is configured to set a first period for a first of the strings of one of the battery modules to be longer than a second period for a second of the strings of the one of the battery modules during the discharging process when a first state of charge of the first of the strings is greater than a second state of charge of the second of the strings.

[0016] In further features, the switching control module is configured to selectively set a first period for a first of the phases to be longer than a second period for a second of the phases during the charging process based on the charge states of the strings.

[0017] In further features, the switching control module is configured to selectively set a first period for a first of the phases to be longer than a second period for a second of the phases during the discharge process based on the charge states of the strings.

[0018] In further features, the switching control module is configured to determine the phase periods and the first periods for the strings based on minimizing an error between the states of charge of the strings of battery cells.

[0019] For other characteristics, the error is a sum of the squared differences between the charge states of the strands.

[0020] In further features, each of the strings comprises several battery cells connected in series.

[0021] In further features, the multiple battery cells include four three-volt battery cells.

[0022] In further features, the switch control module is configured to control the switches such that one of the strands is not connected to the first positive pole and the second positive pole at the same time.

[0023] In further features, the first positive pole is configured to output a first reference potential, the second positive pole is configured to output a second reference potential, and the first reference potential is greater than the second reference potential.

[0024] In one feature, a method for a battery comprises: determining the states of charge of strings of the respective battery cells of a battery, the battery comprising: a first positive terminal; a second positive terminal; a negative terminal; switches; two battery modules, each of the two battery modules comprising three strings of battery cells configured to be connected in series and via first of the switches to the first positive terminal at different times, to be connected in parallel and via second of the switches to the second positive terminal at different times, and to be disconnected from both the first and second positive terminals; determining phase periods based on the states of charge, respectively; determining first periods for connecting individual ones of the strings in parallel during one of the phases; dividing one of the phases into N equal periods, each having N period ends, one of the N period ends being at one end of one of the phases;selectively decreasing N; adjusting the first periods to the nearest of the N period ends when a number of the first periods ending closest to one of the N period ends has at least a predetermined value; and selectively operating the switches based on the phase periods and the periods for the strings of battery cells.

[0025] For additional features, the default value is two.

[0026] For further features, selectively decreasing N comprises selectively decreasing N based on the number of first periods closest to one of the N period ends.

[0027] In further features, selectively decreasing N comprises decrementing N when the number of first periods closest to one of the N period ends is less than the predetermined value.

[0028] Further areas of applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description, claims, and drawings. The detailed description and specific examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] The present disclosure will be more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 shows a functional block diagram of an exemplary engine control system, Fig. 2 shows a functional block diagram of an exemplary battery system of a vehicle, Fig. 3A-3B show schematic diagrams, including the exemplary implementation of a battery system, Fig. 4 shows a functional block diagram of an exemplary implementation of a battery module in an open (X) arrangement, Fig. 5 includes an exemplary representation of the battery module in a series arrangement (S), Fig. 6 includes an exemplary representation of the battery module in a parallel arrangement (P), Fig. 7 shows a functional block diagram of an exemplary shift control module, Fig. 8 includes an exemplary time series for operation in a power mode during the charging process, Fig. 9 shows a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for balancing the charge states of the battery strings and modules of a battery, Fig. 10 includes an exemplary diagram of the charge states of battery strings over time during discharging using string and module balancing, Fig. 11 shows a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for adjusting the periods of the battery strings to increase computational efficiency and reduce switching, and Fig. 12 contains an exemplary illustration for setting the periods of the battery strings.

[0030] Reference symbols may be reused in the drawings to identify similar and / or identical elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] A vehicle includes a battery having a first terminal on a battery housing for outputting a first operating voltage (e.g., 48 V) and a second output terminal on the housing for outputting a second operating voltage (e.g., 12 V). The battery includes a plurality of battery modules and a plurality of switches. Each battery module includes a plurality of battery strings, and each battery string includes a plurality of battery cells. The switches are configured to connect strings together in series or individually to a terminal. The strings can also be disconnected from the first and second output terminals.

[0032] According to the present application, a model predictive control (MPC) module uses estimates of the battery string states of charge and controls the switches to minimize state-of-charge errors across all battery strings and modules. This ensures that each battery string is charged and discharged as evenly as possible, thereby extending battery life.

[0033] To evenly distribute the energy flows to and from the modules and strings, the MPC module controls the switches to execute a series of phases in which the modules alternately connect to the first and second output poles. During some phases, the individual strings within a module can vary their connection times within the phase. The MPC module could divide the period in which a string is charged or discharged during a phase into two or more separate periods. This can be done, for example, to keep the power characteristics (e.g., voltage and current) to and from the battery approximately equal. However, this results in more switching operations and also requires more computational effort.

[0034] In the context of this application, a division of the period is not permitted, and the period for the strings of a battery module is set such that a predetermined minimum number (e.g., 2) of strings is connected during an entire phase in which the battery module is to be operated in parallel mode (P). This increases computational efficiency (less computational effort is required) and reduces switching operations. Reducing the number of switching operations increases the service life.

[0035] With reference now to Fig. 1 shows a functional block diagram of an exemplary propulsion system 100. The propulsion system 100 of a vehicle includes an engine 102 that combusts an air-fuel mixture to generate torque. The vehicle may be a non-autonomous or autonomous vehicle.

[0036] Air is drawn into the engine 102 through an intake system 108. The intake system 108 may include an intake manifold 110 and a throttle body 112. For example only, the throttle body 112 may include a throttle valve with a rotatable vane. An engine control module 114 controls a throttle actuator module 116, and the throttle actuator module 116 regulates the opening of the throttle body 112 to control airflow into the intake manifold 110.

[0037] Air from intake manifold 110 is drawn into the cylinders of engine 102. Although engine 102 includes multiple cylinders, a single representative cylinder 118 is shown for illustrative purposes. For example only, engine 102 may include 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, and / or 12 cylinders. Engine control module 114 may instruct a cylinder actuation module 120 to selectively deactivate some of the cylinders under certain circumstances, which may improve fuel economy.

[0038] The engine 102 may operate on a four-stroke or other suitable engine cycle. The four strokes of a four-stroke cycle, described below, are referred to as the intake stroke, compression stroke, power stroke, and exhaust stroke. For each revolution of a crankshaft (not shown), two of the four strokes occur within cylinder 118. Therefore, two crankshaft revolutions are required for cylinder 118 to complete all four strokes. In four-stroke engines, one engine cycle may correspond to two crankshaft revolutions.

[0039] When cylinder 118 is activated, air is drawn from intake manifold 110 through an intake valve 122 into cylinder 118 during the intake stroke. The engine control module 114 controls a fuel control module 124, which regulates fuel injection to achieve a desired air-fuel ratio. Fuel may be injected at a central location or at multiple locations within intake manifold 110, such as near the intake valve 122 of each cylinder. In various implementations not shown, fuel may be injected directly into the cylinders or into the mixing chambers / ports associated with the cylinders. The fuel control module 124 may interrupt the injection of fuel into deactivated cylinders.

[0040] The injected fuel mixes with air, creating an air-fuel mixture in cylinder 118. During the compression stroke, a piston (not shown) within cylinder 118 compresses the air-fuel mixture. Engine 102 may be a compression-ignition engine, where compression causes the air-fuel mixture to ignite. Alternatively, engine 102 may be a gasoline engine, where a spark control module 126, based on a signal from engine control module 114, activates a spark plug 128 in cylinder 118, igniting the air-fuel mixture. Some engine types, such as homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) engines, may have both compression ignition and spark ignition. Ignition timing may be specified relative to when the piston is at its uppermost position, referred to as top dead center (TDC).

[0041] The spark control module 126 can be controlled by a timing signal that indicates how far before or after TDC the spark should be generated. Since piston position is directly related to crankshaft rotation, the operation of the spark control module 126 can be synchronized with the crankshaft position. The spark control module 126 can interrupt or provide spark to deactivated cylinders.

[0042] During the power stroke, the combustion of the air-fuel mixture drives the piston downward, thus rotating the crankshaft. The power stroke can be defined as the time between the time the piston reaches top dead center (TDC) and the time the piston returns to its lowest position, known as bottom dead center (BDC).

[0043] During the exhaust stroke, the piston begins to move upward from bottom dead center, expelling the combustion byproducts through an exhaust valve 130. The combustion byproducts are removed from the vehicle via an exhaust system 134.

[0044] Intake valve 122 may be controlled by an intake camshaft 140, while exhaust valve 130 may be controlled by an exhaust camshaft 142. In various implementations, multiple intake camshafts (including intake camshaft 140) may control multiple intake valves (including intake valve 122) for cylinder 118 and / or control the intake valves (including intake valve 122) of multiple banks of cylinders (including cylinder 118). Likewise, multiple exhaust camshafts (including exhaust camshaft 142) may control multiple exhaust valves for cylinder 118 and / or control exhaust valves (including exhaust valve 130) for multiple banks of cylinders (including cylinder 118). Valve actuation is shown and explained using a single camshaft. However, camless valve actuation may also be used.Although separate intake and exhaust camshafts are shown, a single camshaft with cams for the intake and exhaust valves can also be used.

[0045] The cylinder actuation module 120 may deactivate the cylinder 118 by blocking the opening of the intake valve 122 and / or the exhaust valve 130. The timing at which the intake valve 122 opens relative to piston TDC may be varied by an intake camshaft phaser 148. The timing at which the exhaust valve 130 opens relative to piston TDC may be varied by an exhaust camshaft phaser 150. A phaser actuation module 158 may control the intake camshaft phaser 148 and the exhaust camshaft phaser 150 based on signals from the engine control module 114. In various implementations, camshaft timing may be omitted. Variable valve lift, not shown, may also be controlled by the phaser actuation module 158. In various other embodiments, the intake valve 122 and / or the exhaust valve 130 may be controlled by actuators other than a camshaft, e.g.by electromechanical actuators, electrohydraulic actuators, electromagnetic actuators, etc.

[0046] The engine 102 may include none, one, or more than one boost device that supplies compressed air to the intake manifold 110. Fig. For example, Figure 1 shows a turbocharger with a turbocharger turbine 160-1 driven by the exhaust gases flowing through the exhaust system 134. Superchargers represent another type of boost pressure device.

[0047] The turbocharger also includes a turbocharger compressor 160-2, which is driven by the turbocharger turbine 160-1 and compresses the air flowing into the throttle body 112. A wastegate valve 162 controls the flow of exhaust gas through and past the turbocharger turbine 160-1. Boost valves may also be referred to as (turbocharger) turbine bypass valves. The wastegate valve 162 allows exhaust gas to bypass the turbocharger turbine 160-1 to reduce the intake air compression generated by the turbocharger. The engine control module 114 may control the turbocharger via a boost control module 164. The boost control module 164 may modulate the turbocharger boost pressure by controlling the opening of the wastegate valve 162.

[0048] A cooler (e.g., a charge air cooler or intercooler) may remove some of the heat contained in the compressed air charge that may be generated during air compression. Although shown separately for illustrative purposes, the turbocharger turbine 160-1 and the turbocharger compressor 160-2 may be mechanically linked, placing the intake air in close proximity to the hot exhaust gases. The compressed air charge may absorb heat from the components of the exhaust system 134.

[0049] The engine 102 may include an exhaust gas recirculation valve 170 that selectively recirculates exhaust gases into the intake manifold 110. The exhaust gas recirculation valve 170 may receive exhaust gases upstream of the turbocharger turbine 160-1 in the exhaust system 134. The exhaust gas recirculation valve 170 may be controlled by an exhaust gas recirculation actuator module 172.

[0050] Crankshaft position may be measured with a crankshaft position sensor 180. Engine speed may be determined based on the crankshaft position measured with the crankshaft position sensor 180. The temperature of the engine coolant may be measured with an engine coolant temperature sensor 182. The engine coolant temperature sensor 182 may be located within the engine 102 or at other locations where the coolant circulates, such as on a radiator (not shown).

[0051] The pressure in the intake manifold 110 may be measured with a manifold absolute pressure sensor 184. In various embodiments, the boost pressure, i.e., the difference between the ambient air pressure and the pressure within the intake manifold 110, may be measured. The mass flow of air flowing into the intake manifold 110 may be measured with a mass air flow sensor 186. In various embodiments, the mass air flow sensor 186 may be housed in a housing that also includes the throttle valve 112.

[0052] The position of the throttle valve 112 may be measured with one or more throttle position sensors 190. The temperature of the air drawn into the engine 102 may be measured with an intake air temperature sensor 192. One or more other sensors 193 may also be employed. The other sensors 193 include an accelerator pedal position sensor, a brake pedal position sensor, a clutch pedal position sensor (e.g., in a manual transmission), and one or more other types of sensors. An accelerator pedal position sensor measures the position of an accelerator pedal in the passenger compartment of the vehicle. A brake pedal position sensor measures the position of a brake pedal in the passenger compartment of the vehicle. A clutch pedal position sensor measures the position of a clutch pedal in the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The other sensors 193 may also include one or more acceleration sensors that measure longitudinal acceleration (e.g.,Measure the vehicle's forward / reverse acceleration and lateral acceleration. An accelerometer is just one example of an acceleration sensor. However, other types of acceleration sensors may also be used. The engine control module 114 may use signals from the sensors to make control decisions for the engine 102.

[0053] For example, the engine control module 114 may communicate with a transmission control module 194 to coordinate engine operation with gear shifting in a transmission 195. The engine control module 114 may communicate with a hybrid control module 196 to coordinate the operation of the engine 102 and an electric motor 198. Although one electric motor is used as an example, multiple electric motors may be used. The electric motor 198 may be a permanent magnet electric motor or another suitable electric motor that produces a voltage when freely rotated due to the opposing electromagnetic force, such as a DC or synchronous electric motor. In various implementations, various functions of the engine control module 114, the transmission control module 194, and the hybrid control module 196 may be integrated into one or more modules.

[0054] Any system that changes an engine parameter may be referred to as an engine actuator. Each engine actuator is associated with an actuator value. For example, the throttle actuator module 116 may be referred to as the engine actuator, and the throttle opening range may be referred to as the actuator value. In the example shown in Fig. 1, the throttle valve actuating module 116 achieves the throttle valve opening range by adjusting an angle of the blade of the throttle valve 112.

[0055] The spark control module 126 may also be referred to as the engine actuator, while the corresponding actuator value may be the amount of spark advance relative to cylinder TDC. Other engine actuators may include the cylinder actuator module 120, the fuel control module 124, the phaser control module 158, the boost control module 164, and the exhaust gas recirculation control module 172. For these engine actuators, the actuator values ​​may correspond to a cylinder activation / deactivation sequence, fuel delivery, intake and exhaust camshaft angles, a desired boost valve opening, and the exhaust gas recirculation valve opening, respectively.

[0056] The engine control module 114 may control the actuator values ​​to cause the engine 102 to output torque based on a torque request. The engine control module 114 may determine the torque request based, for example, on one or more driver inputs such as an accelerator pedal position, a brake pedal position, a clutch pedal position, and / or one or more other suitable driver inputs. The engine control module 114 may determine the torque request using, for example, one or more functions or lookup tables that relate the driver input(s) to torque requests.

[0057] Under certain circumstances, the hybrid control module 196 controls the electric motor 198 to output torque, for example, to supplement the torque output of the engine. The hybrid control module 196 may also control the electric motor 198 to output torque for vehicle propulsion when the engine 102 is off.

[0058] The hybrid control module 196 supplies the electric motor 198 with electrical energy from a battery 208 to cause the electric motor 198 to output positive torque. The battery is discussed further below. The electric motor 198 may output torque, for example, to an input shaft of the transmission 195, to an output shaft of the transmission 195, or to another component. A clutch 200 may be used to couple the electric motor 198 to the transmission 195 and to decouple the electric motor 198 from the transmission 195. One or more gearing devices may be installed between an output of the electric motor 198 and an input of the transmission 195 to provide one or more predetermined gear ratios between the rotation of the electric motor 198 and the rotation of the input of the transmission 195. In various implementations, the electric motor 198 may be omitted.

[0059] The engine control module 114 starts the engine 102 via a starter motor 202. The engine control module 114 or another suitable module of the vehicle connects the starter motor 202 to the engine 102 for an engine starting operation. For example only, the engine control module 114 may connect the starter motor 202 to the engine 102 when a key-on command is received. A driver may input a key-on command, such as by operating one or more of the vehicle's ignition keys, buttons, and / or switches, or a vehicle key fob. The starter motor 202 may energize a flywheel coupled to the crankshaft or one or more other suitable components that rotate the crankshaft.

[0060] The engine control module 114 may also start the engine following an auto-start command during an auto-stop / start event or following an engine start command for a coasting event. Auto-stop / start events include shutting off the engine 102 while the vehicle is stationary, if the driver has applied the brake pedal and has not provided a key-off command. An auto-start command may be generated when the engine 102 is shut down for an auto-stop / start event, such as when the driver releases the brake pedal and / or applies the accelerator pedal.

[0061] Coasting events may include the engine control module 114 shutting down the engine 102 when the vehicle is moving (e.g., when the vehicle speed is above a predetermined speed, such as approximately 80 km / h), the driver is not pressing the accelerator pedal, and the driver has not input a key-off command. An engine start command may be generated when the engine 102 is shut down for a coasting event, e.g., when the driver presses the accelerator pedal. The driver may input a key-off command, for example, by pressing the one or more ignition keys, buttons, and / or switches as described above.

[0062] A starter actuator, such as a solenoid, may engage the starter 202 with the engine 102. For example only, the starter actuator may engage a starter pinion gear with a flywheel coupled to the crankshaft. In various implementations, the starter pinion gear may be connected to the starter 202 via a drive shaft and a one-way clutch. A starter actuator module 204 controls the starter actuator and the starter 202 based on signals from a starter control module, as described further below. In various implementations, the starter 202 may be maintained engaged with the engine 102.

[0063] Upon a command to start the engine 102 (e.g., an autostart command, an engine start command to terminate a coasting event, or when a key-on command is received), the starter actuator module 204 supplies power to the starter 202 to start the engine 102. The starter actuator module 204 may also trigger the starter actuator to connect the starter 202 to the engine 102. The starter actuator module 204 may supply power to the starter 202 after the starter 202 is connected to the engine 102, for example, to enable gear engagement.

[0064] By supplying power to the starter motor 202, the starter motor 202 rotates and causes the crankshaft to rotate (e.g., via the flywheel). The period during which the starter motor 202 drives the crankshaft to start the engine 102 may be referred to as engine cranking.

[0065] The starter motor 202 draws power from the battery 208 to start the engine 102. Once the engine 102 is running following the engine cranking process, the starter motor 202 detaches or becomes uncoupled from the engine 102, and the flow of power to the starter motor 202 may be interrupted. For example, the engine 102 may be considered running when the engine speed exceeds a predetermined speed, such as a predetermined idle speed. For example only, the predetermined idle speed may be approximately 700 revolutions per minute (RPM) or another suitable speed. Engine cranking may be considered complete when the engine 102 is running.

[0066] A generator 206 converts the mechanical energy of the engine 102 into alternating current (AC). The generator 206 can, for example, be coupled to the crankshaft (e.g., via a gear or a belt) and convert the mechanical energy of the engine 102 into AC by applying a load to the crankshaft. The generator 206 converts the AC voltage to DC voltage and stores the DC voltage in the battery 208. Alternatively, a rectifier external to the generator 206 can be used to convert the AC current to DC current. The generator 206 can, for example, be an AC generator. In various implementations, such as a belt-driven starter-generator (RSG), the starter 202 and the generator 206 can be implemented together.

[0067] Fig. 2 is a functional block diagram of an exemplary battery system of a vehicle. Battery 208 has at least two output terminals and one negative terminal to provide at least two DC operating voltages. For example only, battery 208 may have a first positive terminal 210 (e.g., nominally rated at 48 volts (V)), a negative terminal 212, and a second positive terminal 214 (e.g., nominally rated at 12V). Although battery 208 has a nominal operating voltage of 48V and a nominal operating voltage of 12V in this example, battery 208 may also have one or more other operating voltages.

[0068] The battery 208 includes a plurality of battery modules, such as a first battery module 224-1, ... and an Nth battery module 224-N ("battery modules 224"), where N is an integer greater than or equal to 2. In various implementations, N may be equal to 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, or 12.

[0069] As shown below Fig. As explained in Figure 4, each of the battery modules 224 includes multiple battery strings. Each battery string may be individually replaceable. Because the battery strings can be individually replaced, the battery 208 may have a shorter warranty period and lower warranty costs. The battery strings may also be individually disconnected, for example, in the event of a failure in one battery string. In various implementations, the battery 208 may have the form factor of a standard 12V automotive battery.

[0070] Battery 208 includes a plurality of switches, such as first switches 232-1, ..., Nth switches 232-N (collectively, "switch 232"). Switches 232 can connect battery strings 224 in series, parallel, or a combination of series and parallel to provide desired output voltages and capacitances at the output terminals.

[0071] A switching control module 240 controls the switches 232 to provide the desired output voltages and capacitances at the output terminals. The switching control module 240 controls the switches 232 using model predictive control to balance the charge states of the battery strings as closely as possible.

[0072] Fig. 3A-3B are schematic representations of an example battery system including battery 208. Sets of battery strings may be connected in series (via one of switches 232) to first positive terminal 210 and negative terminal 212 to provide a first nominal output voltage (e.g., 48 V) across first positive terminal 210. Individual ones of the battery strings may be connected (via individual ones of switches 232) to second positive terminal 214 and negative terminal 212 to provide a second nominal output voltage (e.g., 12 V) across second positive terminal 214. How many of the battery strings are connected to first positive terminal 210 and second positive terminal 214 determines the amounts of total capacity of battery 208 available at each of the positive terminals.

[0073] As in Fig. 3B, a first set of electrical vehicle components operates at one of the two or more operating voltages of the battery 208. For example, the first set of electrical vehicle components may be connected to the second positive terminal 214. The first set of electrical vehicle components may include, for example, but not limited to, the engine control module 114 and other control modules of the vehicle, the starter motor 202, and / or other electrical loads, such as first 12V loads 304, second 12V loads 308, other control modules 312, third 12V loads 316, and fourth 12V loads 320. In various implementations, a switching device 324 may be implemented.

[0074] As in Fig. 3A, a second set of electrical vehicle components operates at a different one of the two or more operating voltages of battery 208. For example, the second set of electrical vehicle components may be connected to the first positive terminal 210. The second set of electrical vehicle components may include, for example, but not limited to, the generator 206 and various electrical loads, such as 48V loads 328. The generator 206 may be controlled to charge the battery 208.

[0075] Each of the switches 232 may be an insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT), a field effect transistor (FET), such as a metal oxide semiconductor FET (MOSFET), or another suitable type of switch.

[0076] Fig. 4 is a functional block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of one of the battery modules 224, a numbered battery module 404, and a set of switches 232. Each of the battery modules 224 may be identical, and each set of switches 232 may be identical.

[0077] Battery module 404 includes three battery strings, 408, 412, and 416. Battery strings 408-416 are identical and each include four battery cells 420, 424, 428, and 432. Battery cells 420-432 are connected in series to provide the second operating voltage (e.g., 12 V). Each of battery cells 420-432 may, for example, be a 3 V battery or have another suitable voltage to provide the second operating voltage. Battery cells 420-432 may, for example, be lithium ferrophosphate (LFP) battery cells or cells with another suitable chemistry.

[0078] The negative terminals of battery strings 408-416 are connected to negative terminal 212. The negative terminals of battery strings 408 and 412 are connected to negative terminal 212 via switches 436 and 440, respectively, when switches 436 and 440 are closed. Switches 436 and 440 can be opened to disconnect the negative terminals of battery strings 408 and 412 from negative terminal 212. The negative terminal of battery string 416 can be connected directly to negative terminal 212.

[0079] The positive terminal of battery string 416 is connected to the negative terminal of battery string 412, so that battery strings 412 and 416 are connected in series when switch 444 is closed. Switch 444 can be opened to disconnect the positive terminal of battery string 416 from the negative terminal of battery string 412. The positive terminal of battery string 412 is connected to the negative terminal of battery string 408, so that battery strings 412 and 408 are connected in series when switch 448 is closed. Switch 448 can be opened to disconnect the positive terminal of battery string 412 from the negative terminal of battery string 408.

[0080] Switches 452, 456, and 460 connect and disconnect the positive terminals of battery strings 408, 412, and 416 to and from a first bus (e.g., a 12V bus) connected to the second positive terminal 214. Switch 464 connects and disconnects the positive terminal of battery string 408 to and from a second bus (e.g., a 48V bus) connected to the first positive terminal 210.

[0081] The switching control module 240 controls the switching of the switches of the individual battery modules 224. At any given time, the switching control module 240 can actuate the switches associated with a battery module so that the battery module is in an open (X), series (S), or parallel (P) configuration. Fig. Figure 4 contains an example illustration of the battery module 404 in the open (X) configuration. When a battery module is in the open (X) configuration, all battery strings of the battery module are disconnected from both the first positive terminal 210 and the second positive terminal 214.

[0082] Fig. Figure 5 contains an example illustration of the battery module 404 in the series (S) configuration. When a battery module is connected in series (S), all battery strings of the battery module are connected in series and connected to the first positive terminal 210. To do this, switches 444, 448, and 464 are closed and all other switches 436, 440, 452, 456, and 460 are opened. None of the battery strings are connected to the second positive terminal 214 when the battery module is in the series (S) configuration.

[0083] Fig. Figure 6 contains an example illustration of the battery module 404 in the parallel (P) configuration. When a battery module is connected in parallel (P), all battery strings of the battery module are connected in parallel to the second positive terminal 214. To do this, switches 452, 456, 460, 436, and 440 are closed and all other switches 444, 448, and 464 are opened. None of the battery strings are connected to the first positive terminal 210 when the battery module is in the parallel (P) configuration.

[0084] Fig. 7 shows a functional block diagram of an exemplary implementation of the switch control module 240. A switch module 704 applies signals to (e.g., gate terminals) of the switches 232 to control the operation of the switches 232 and to control whether each of the battery modules 224 is in the open (X) state, the series state (S), or the parallel state (P).

[0085] The switching module 704 applies the signals based on inputs from an MPC module 708. The MPC module 708 determines a current power mode based on one or more operating parameters and generates the output to the switching module 704 based on the current power mode. The MPC module 708 also generates the output based on constraints 712 set by a constraint module 716. Examples of constraints 712 include that a battery string cannot be connected to either the first or second positive terminals 210 or 214 if its battery module is in the X-connection. A battery string cannot be connected to the first and second positive terminals 210 or 214 at the same time. A battery string cannot be connected to the second positive terminal 214 multiple times if that battery module is to be connected in parallel (P) mode. The phase duration can be limited to meet the demand on the first positive terminal 210.The duration of each string's connection can be limited (restricted) to the end of the phase. The number of channels (battery strings) per battery module can be limited to meet the demand on the second positive terminal 210.

[0086] One, several, or all of the constraints 712 may be specified. In various implementations, one or more of the constraints 712 may be variable. The constraint module 716 may specify variable constraints based on one or more operating parameters 714. The operating parameters 714 include, for example, the current power mode, the expected duration of the current power mode, and other example operating parameters.

[0087] A state of charge module 718 determines the current state of charge 720 of the individual battery strings. In other words, the state of charge module 718 determines the current states of charge 720 of the respective battery strings. The state of charge module 718 may determine the current state of charge of a battery string based, for example, on at least one of a voltage across the battery string or a current to and from that battery string. In various implementations, the state of charge module 718 may determine the state of charge of a battery based on the impedance of the battery, for example, to more accurately relate voltage and current to the state of charge. The state of charge module 718 may determine the current state of charge of a battery string using at least one equation or a lookup table that relates voltage and / or current to the state of charge. The state of charge module 718 does this for each battery string.The voltages and currents of the battery strings 724 can be measured using voltage and current sensors, respectively.

[0088] The MPC module 708 controls the switching of the switches (via the switching module 704) to minimize an error (e.g., a sum of squared differences (or errors)) between the states of charge of the respective battery strings in the current power mode. The MPC module 708 may further control the switching of the switches based on current power demands via the first and second positive terminals 210 and 214, respectively, and predicted power demands from the first and second positive terminals 210 and 214, respectively. The current and predicted power demands are represented by 728.

[0089] To balance the states of charge of the strings 720, the MPC module 708 uses model predictive control to set the phase duration for each of the three phases (Phase 1, Phase 2, and Phase 3), the number of battery strings connected in P-mode, and the duration for which each battery string is connected in P-mode. Each power mode is associated with a set of configurations (X-mode, P-mode, or S-mode) of the battery modules 224 for that power mode. The table below shows the power modes and the battery module modes for each phase. The MPC module 708 cycles through the phases (Phase 1, Phase 2, Phase 3, then back to Phase 1, etc.) repeatedly until the power mode is changed. Leistungsmodus Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3 Situation 1 (XXX-Modus) XXX XXX XXX AUS 2(XXP-Modus) XXP PXX XPX 12V-Ruhemodus 3(XXS-Modus) XXS SXX XSX 48V-Low-Power-Modus mit Diagnose 4(XPP-Modus) XPP PXP PPX 12V-Medium-Power-Modus mit Diagnose 5(SXP-Modus) SXP PSX XPS Niederspannungs-2-Modus mit Diagnose 6(XSS-Modus) XSS SXS SSX 48V-Medium-Power mit Diagnose 7(PPP-Modus) PPP PPP PPP 12V-High-Power-Anlassmodus 8(PPS-Modus) PPS SPP PSP Normalspannungs-2-Modus 9 (PSS-Modus) PSS SPS SSP Normalspannungs-2-Modus 10 (SSS-Modus) SSS SSS SSS 48V-High-Power-Modus

[0090] The example table above shows the battery module mode of the respective battery modules for each phase. For example, in Power Mode 5 (SXP mode), during the first phase (Phase 1), the first battery module operates in series mode (S), the second battery module operates in open mode (X), and the third battery module operates in parallel mode (P). During the second phase (Phase 2) of Power Mode 5, the first battery module operates in parallel mode (P), the second battery module operates in series mode (S), and the third battery module operates in open mode (X). During the third phase (Phase 3) of Power Mode 5, the first battery module operates in open mode (X), the second battery module operates in parallel mode (P), and the third battery module operates in series mode (S).

[0091] The MPC module 708 sets the duration (length) of the first, second, and third phases to optimize the balancing of the charge levels of each battery string. For example, if the battery strings (e.g., on average) of one battery module have a lower state of charge than the other two battery modules, the MPC module 708 can set the phase(s) in which one battery module operates in parallel mode (P) to be longer than the phase(s) in which the other two battery modules operate. This increases the state of charge of the other two battery modules by less than the state of charge of one of the battery modules, so that the charge levels of the battery modules are more balanced. During discharging, the battery strings (e.g., on average) of one battery module have a lower state of charge than the other two battery modules.The MPC module 708 can then set the phase(s) in which one battery module operates in parallel mode (P) to be shorter than the phase(s) in which the other two battery modules operate. This reduces the state of charge of the other two battery modules more than the state of charge of one of the battery modules, so that the state of charge of the battery modules is more balanced.

[0092] The MPC module 708 also determines the duration (length / period) of each phase in which each battery string is connected to the second positive terminal 214 to equalize the individual charge levels of the battery strings of each module. For example, if during charging one battery string of a battery module has a lower charge level than the other battery strings of that battery module, the MPC module 708 can set the duration for which one of the battery strings is connected to the second positive terminal 214 to be longer than the duration of the other battery strings of the battery module. This increases the charge level of one battery string of the battery module more than the charge level of the other battery strings of the battery module, so that the charge levels within the battery module are more balanced. The MPC module 708 does this for each battery module.If, during the discharge process, one battery string of a battery module has a lower state of charge than the other battery strings of that battery module, the MPC module 708 can set the duration for which one of the battery strings is connected to the second positive terminal 214 to be shorter than the duration for the other battery strings of the battery module. As a result, the state of charge of one battery string of the battery module is reduced less than the state of charge of the other battery strings of the battery module, so that the state of charge within the battery module is more balanced. The MPC module 708 does this for each battery module.

[0093] Fig. Figure 8 contains an example time series for operation in power mode 5 (SXP) during charging. 804 is the first phase (phase 1), 808 is the second phase (phase 2), and 812 is the third phase (phase 3). As used herein, the term MNO mode may mean that the first battery module operates in M ​​mode, the second battery module operates in N mode, and the third battery module operates in O mode, where M, N, and O represent parallel mode (P), series mode (S), or open mode (X), respectively. For example, the first phase includes SXP mode, where the first battery module operates in series mode (S), the second battery module operates in open mode (X), and the third battery module operates in parallel mode (P). The second phase includes operation in PSX mode, where the first battery module operates in parallel mode (P), the second battery module operates in series mode (S), and the third battery module operates in open mode (X).The third phase involves operation in XPS mode, where the first battery module operates in open mode (X), the second battery module operates in parallel mode (P), and the third battery module operates in series mode (S).

[0094] In the example according to Fig. 8, the MPC module 708 sets the duration of the second phase longer than the duration of the third phase and the duration of the third phase longer than the duration of the first phase. This allows the battery strings of the first battery module (connected in parallel mode (P) in the second phase) to be charged more than the other battery modules, and the battery strings of the second battery module (connected in parallel mode (P) in the third phase) to be charged more than the battery strings of the third battery module. The third battery module operates in parallel mode (P) in the first phase.

[0095] During the first phase 804, the MPC module 708 connects the third battery string 824 of the third battery module to the second positive terminal 214 for a shorter distance than the first and second battery strings 816 and 820 of the third battery module. This allows the first and second battery strings 816 and 820 of the third battery module to be charged more strongly than the third battery string 824 of the third battery module to equalize the charge levels of the first, second, and third battery strings 816, 820, and 824 of the third battery module.

[0096] During the second phase 808, the MPC module 708 has the third battery string 824 of the first battery module connected to the second positive terminal 214 for a shorter distance than the first and second battery strings 816 and 820 of the first battery module. This allows the first and second battery strings 816 and 820 of the first battery module to be charged more strongly than the third battery string 824 of the first battery module to equalize the charge levels of the first, second, and third battery strings 816, 820, and 824 of the first battery module.

[0097] During the third phase 812, the MPC module 708 has the third battery string 824 of the second battery module connected to the second positive terminal 214 for a shorter distance than the first and second battery strings 816 and 820 of the second battery module. This allows the first and second battery strings 816 and 820 of the second battery module to be charged more than the third battery string 824 of the second battery module to equalize the charge levels of the first, second, and third battery strings 816, 820, and 824 of the second battery module.

[0098] The controller then returns to the first phase, assuming the power mode hasn't changed. In other words, the controller goes from phase 1 to phase 2 to phase 3, and then repeats phases 1-3 in the same order.

[0099] Although Fig. 8 is intended to illustrate the charging process, a similar situation also applies to discharging. For example, if the state of charge of the third strings of the first, second, and third battery modules is lower than the state of charge of the first or second strings of the first-third battery modules, the MPC module 708 can connect the third strings of the first-third battery modules to the second positive terminal 214 for a shorter time during the respective phases than the first and second strings of the first-third battery modules. As a result, the third strings are discharged less than the first and second strings, and the state of charge of the battery strings is balanced.

[0100] Fig. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example method for balancing the states of charge of the battery strings of the battery modules of battery 208. Control begins at 904, where the state of charge module 718 determines the states of charge of the battery strings (first, second, and third) of each of the battery modules 324 (first, second, and third) of battery 208. At 908, the state of charge module 718 may determine the states of charge of the battery modules (first, second, and third) based on the battery strings of the respective battery modules. For example, the state of charge module 718 may determine a state of charge of the first battery module based on an average of the states of charge of the battery strings (first, second, and third) of the first battery module. The state of charge module 718 may determine a state of charge of the second battery module based on an average of the states of charge of the battery strings (first, second, and third) of the second battery module.The state of charge module 718 may determine a state of charge of the third battery module based on an average of the states of charge of the battery strings (first, second, and third) of the third battery module.

[0101] At 912, the MPC module 708 determines the power mode. The MPC module 708 may select one of the above-mentioned power modes, such as the SXP mode, the XPP mode, the XXP mode, or another of the above-mentioned modes.

[0102] At 916, the MPC module 708 determines the phase duration based on the power mode and the charge levels of the battery modules. For example, the MPC module 708 may set the duration of a phase in which a battery module is to be connected in parallel mode (P) to be shorter than the duration of the other phases if the charge level of that battery module is lower than the charge level of the other battery modules. The MPC module 708 determines the phase duration using model predictive control.

[0103] At 920, the MPC module 708 determines the (initial) duration (period) for connecting each string of each battery module within the phases. For example, during charging, the MPC module 708 may charge a battery string longer than other battery strings if it has a lower state of charge than the other battery strings. During discharging, the MPC module 708 may discharge a battery longer than the other battery strings if the battery string has a higher state of charge than the other battery strings. The MPC module 708 determines the duration of the battery strings using model predictive control. The MPC module 708 determines the final duration (final periods) based on the initial periods, as explained further below.

[0104] In various implementations, 912 and 916 may be executed concurrently by the MPC module 708. The optimization cost criterion may be zero when all string states of charge are equal and may increase as the differences between the states of charge increase. One possible formulation of such a cost criterion is a weighted sum of the squared differences between the states of charge of neighboring pairs in a cyclic chain encompassing all strings, this sum being formed over a scheduling horizon consisting of one or more complete cycles through the phases. Additional penalties may be added, such as costs for the total connection times of the strings to avoid overheating of the strings. The variables in the optimization are the duration of the phases and the duration for which each string is connected in the P configuration.The minimization of the cost criterion is subject to the constraints 712. Based on the performance requirements and predictions 728, the MPC module 708 can evaluate the cost criterion for arbitrary connection time spans. The solution to the minimization problem is the set of phase time spans and string connection time spans that best balances the string charge states over the planning horizon, taking into account the constraints 712 and any additional penalty conditions.

[0105] At 924, the switching module 704 actuates the switches 232 according to the power mode, phase duration, and battery string duration. Control returns to 904 to initiate another loop.

[0106] Fig. Figure 10 contains an exemplary graph of the states of charge 1004 of battery strings over time 1008 during discharge according to the string and module balancing described herein. As shown, the states of charge equalize relatively quickly despite the initial differences.

[0107] In order to implement the set of time periods that minimizes the cost criterion, these time periods are converted into a temporal sequence of events for opening and closing the switches. Fig. Figure 11 shows a flowchart illustrating an example method for adjusting the periods of the battery strings to increase computational efficiency and reduce switching. Fig. 12 contains an exemplary illustration of the concepts of Fig. 11.

[0108] Control begins at 1104, where the MPC module 708 determines the phase periods and initial battery string periods for each phase as described above. Exemplary initial battery string periods for a battery module to be operated in parallel mode (P) for a phase 1202 are represented by 1204 in Fig. 12. The third battery string of the battery module is to be connected during periods 1208 and 1212 of phase 1202. The second battery string of the battery module is to be connected during periods 1216 and 1220 of phase 1202. The first battery string of the battery module is to be connected during period 1224 of phase 1202.

[0109] If a string is to be connected during several periods of a phase, the MPC module 708 at 1108 bundles the several periods of the phase into one continuous period with a length that corresponds to the sum of the several periods. An example is shown in Fig. 12 is represented by 1208 and 1212, where periods 1208 and 1212 of the third battery string are added to yield period 1228. Periods 1216 and 1220 of the second battery string are also added to yield period 1232.

[0110] At 1112, the MPC module 708 presets a counter value N to a predetermined value greater than two. In the example according to Fig. 12, the MPC module 708 presets N to 4. At 1116, the MPC module 708 divides the phase into N+1 periods of equal length. Examples of the N+1 periods of equal length for N=4 are shown in Fig. 12 represented by 1236, 1240, 1244, 1248 and 1252.

[0111] At 1120, the MPC module 708 compares the periods of the battery strings to the boundaries of the N+1 equal-length periods to determine a nearest period boundary for each of the battery string periods. The period boundary of the last of the N+1 equal-length periods (e.g., 1252) is at the end of phase 1202. The MPC module 708 determines the nearest period boundary of each of the battery string periods. For example, period 1228 is closest to period boundary 1256, period 1232 is closest to period boundary 1260 (the end of phase 1202), and period 1232 is closest to period boundary 1264.

[0112] At 1124, the MPC module 708 determines how many of the battery strings' periods are closest to the end of phase 1202 (1260) and determines whether the number of periods closest to the end of phase 1202 is greater than or equal to a predetermined value. The predetermined value is calibratable, greater than zero, and can be, for example, 2. At 1212, only period 1232 is closest to the end of phase 1202. If 1124 is false, the MPC module 708 decrements the counter value N by 1 (e.g., sets N=N-1) at 1128, and control returns to 1116. This results in 1 less period of equal length, such as represented by 1268, which contains 2 less periods of equal length than 1212. Another iteration of 1116-1128 occurs between 1212 and 1268.

[0113] If 1124 is correct, control continues to 1132. At 1132, the MPC module 708 adjusts the periods of the battery strings to the nearest period boundaries to generate final periods for the phase of the battery strings. In the example according to Fig. 12, the MPC module 708 decreases the period 1228 of the third strand to the period boundary 1270, increases the period of the second strand to the period boundary 1260, and increases the period of the first strand to the period boundary 1260. The adjusted periods are in 1272 of Fig. 12. Setting the periods for the battery strings in the manner described here reduces the computational effort (increases computational efficiency) and reduces the switching of the switches. Fewer switching operations extend the battery life. As described above, control continues with 924. Although the example of Fig. 11 is displayed as the end, the control returns to 1104 and is displayed for only one phase. An iteration of Fig. 11 can be done for each phase.

[0114] The foregoing description is merely illustrative and is in no way intended to limit the disclosure, its application, or uses. The broad teachings of the disclosure may be embodied in a variety of forms. While this disclosure contains specific examples, its true scope should not be limited thereto, since other modifications will become apparent upon review of the drawings, the specification, and the following claims. It is understood that one or more steps within a method may be performed in a different order (or simultaneously) without altering the principles of the present disclosure.Furthermore, although the embodiments are each described above as having specific features, any one or more of these features described with respect to one embodiment of the disclosure may be implemented and / or combined with features of any of the other embodiments, even if this combination is not explicitly described. In other words, the described embodiments are not mutually exclusive, and interchanging one or more embodiments for one another remains within the scope of this disclosure.

[0115] Spatial and functional relationships between elements (e.g., between modules, circuit elements, semiconductor layers, etc.) are described using various terms, including "connected," "engaging," "coupled," "adjacent," "beside," "on top of," "above," "below," and "disposed." Where a relationship between first and second elements is not explicitly described as "direct" in the above disclosure, that relationship may be a direct relationship, with no other intervening elements between the first and second elements, or an indirect relationship, with one or more intervening elements (either spatial or functional) between the first and second elements.The phrase "at least A, B or C" used here should be interpreted as logical (A OR B OR C) using a non-exclusive logical OR operator and not as "at least one of A, at least one of B and at least one of C".

[0116] In the figures, the direction of an arrow, as indicated by the arrowhead, generally shows the flow of information (such as data or instructions) that is relevant to the illustration. For example, if element A and element B exchange a lot of information, but the information being passed from element A to element B is relevant to the illustration, the arrow may point from element A to element B. However, this unidirectional arrow does not mean that no other information is being passed from element B to element A. Furthermore, for information being sent from element A to element B, element B may send requests for or acknowledgments of receipt of the information to element A.

[0117] In this application and the definitions below, the term "module" or the term "controller" may be replaced with the term "circuit." The term "module" may refer to, be part of, or include: an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC); a digital, analog, or mixed analog / digital discrete circuit; a digital, analog, or mixed analog / digital integrated circuit; a combinational logic circuit; a field-programmable gate array (FPGA); processor circuitry (shared, dedicated, or group) executing code; memory circuitry (shared, dedicated, or group) storing code executed by the processor circuitry; other suitable hardware components that provide the described functionality; or a combination of some or all of the above components, such as in a system-on-chip.

[0118] The module may include one or more interface circuits. In some examples, the interface circuits may include wired or wireless interfaces connected to a local area network (LAN), the Internet, a wide area network (WAN), or combinations thereof. The functionality of any module of the present disclosure may be distributed among multiple modules connected via interface circuits. For example, multiple modules may enable load balancing. In another example, a server module (also referred to as a remote or cloud module) may perform some functions for a client module.

[0119] The term "code," as used above, may include software, firmware, and / or microcode and may refer to programs, routines, functions, classes, data structures, and / or objects. The term "common processor circuitry" includes a single processor circuitry that executes code from multiple modules, in part or in whole. The term "group processor circuitry" includes a processor circuitry that, in combination with additional processor circuitry, executes code from one or more modules, in part or in whole. References to multiple processor circuitry include multiple processor circuitry on discrete chips, multiple processor circuitry on a single chip, multiple cores of a single processor circuitry, multiple threads of a single processor circuitry, or a combination thereof. The term "shared memory circuitry" includes a single memory circuitry that stores code from multiple modules, in part or in whole.The term “group memory circuit” includes a memory circuit that, in combination with additional memories, stores some or all of the code from one or more modules.

[0120] The term "memory circuit" is a subset of the term computer-readable medium. As used herein, the term "computer-readable medium" does not include transitory electrical or electromagnetic signals propagating through a medium (e.g., on a carrier wave); the term "computer-readable medium" can therefore be considered tangible and non-transitory. Non-limiting examples of a non-transitory, tangible, computer-readable medium include non-volatile memory circuits (e.g., a flash memory circuit, an erasable programmable read-only memory circuit, or a mask read-only memory circuit), volatile memory circuits (e.g., a static random access memory circuit or a dynamic random access memory circuit), magnetic storage media (e.g., an analog or digital magnetic tape or a hard disk drive), and optical storage media (e.g., a CD, a DVD, or a Blu-ray Disc).

[0121] The devices and methods described in this application may be implemented partially or entirely by a special-purpose computer created by configuring a general-purpose computer to perform one or more specific functions contained in computer programs. The functional blocks, flowchart components, and other elements described above serve as software specifications that can be translated into computer programs through the routine work of a skilled technician or programmer.

[0122] The computer programs comprise processor-executable instructions stored on at least one non-transitory, tangible, computer-readable medium. The computer programs may also include or be based on stored data. The computer programs may include a basic input / output system (BIOS) that interacts with the hardware of the special-purpose computer, device drivers that interact with specific devices of the special-purpose computer, one or more operating systems, user applications, background services, background applications, etc.

[0123] The computer programs may comprise: (i) descriptive text to be parsed, e.g. B. HTML (Hypertext Markup Language), XML (Extensible Markup Language) or JSON (JavaScript Object Notation), (ii) assembly code, (iii) object code generated from source code by a compiler, (iv) source code for execution by an interpreter, (v) source code for compilation and execution by a just-in-time compiler, etc. By way of example only, source code can be written using the syntax of languages ​​including C, C++, C#, Objective-C, Swift, Haskell, Go, SQL, R, Lisp, Java®, Fortran, Perl, Pascal, Curl, OCaml, Javascript®, HTML5 (Hypertext Markup Language 5th Revision), Ada, ASP (Active Server Pages), PHP (PHP: Hypertext Preprocessor), Scala, Eiffel, Smalltalk, Erlang, Ruby, Flash®, Visual Basic®, Lua, MATLAB, SIMULINK and Python®.

Claims

[1] Battery system comprising: a first positive pole, a second positive pole, a negative pole, Switch, two battery modules, each of the two battery modules comprising three strings of battery cells which are designed to be charged at different times in series and to be connected to the first positive pole via the first switch, parallel and to be connected to the second positive pole via the second switch, and to be separated from both the first and second positive poles, and a switching control module designed to to determine the charge states of the battery cell strings, to determine phase periods based on the charge states, to determine the first periods for parallel connection of individual strands during one of the phases, to divide one of the phases into N periods of equal length, each with N period ends, where one of the N period ends lies at one end of one of the phases, N to selectively reduce, to adjust the first periods to the nearest of the N period ends if a number of the first periods ending closest to one of the N period ends has at least a predetermined value, and to selectively operate the switches based on the phase periods and the periods for the strings of battery cells. [2] The battery system of claim 1, wherein the predetermined value is two. [3] The battery system of claim 1, wherein the switching control module is configured to selectively decrease N based on the number of first periods closest to one of the N period ends. [4] The battery system of claim 1, wherein the switching control module is configured to decrement N when the number of first periods closest to one of the N period ends is less than the predetermined value. [5] The battery system of claim 4, wherein the switching control module is configured to decrement N by one. [6] The battery system of claim 1, wherein the switching control module is configured to connect the two first periods for parallel connection of one of the strings during the one of the phases such that the two first periods are consecutive when two first periods for parallel connection of one of the strings during the one of the phases are separated by a period in which the one of the strings is not to be connected in parallel. [7] The battery system of claim 1, wherein the switching control module is configured to set a first period for a first of the strings of one of the battery modules to be longer than a second period for a second of the strings of the one of the battery modules during the charging process when a first state of charge of the first of the strings is less than a second state of charge of the second of the strings. [8] The battery system of claim 1, wherein the switching control module is configured to set a first period for a first of the strings of one of the battery modules longer than a second period for a second of the strings of the one of the battery modules during the discharging process when a first state of charge of the first of the strings is greater than a second state of charge of the second of the strings. [9] The battery system of claim 1, wherein the switching control module is configured to selectively set a first period for a first of the phases to be longer than a second period for a second of the phases during the charging process based on the charge states of the strings. [10] The battery system of claim 1, wherein the switching control module is configured to selectively set a first period for a first of the phases to be longer than a second period for a second of the phases during the discharging process based on the charge states of the strings.

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