ACCUMULATOR SYSTEM

Abstract

Accumulator system, including: a first positive terminal (210), a second positive terminal (214) and a negative terminal (212), Switches (436, 440, 444, 448, 452, 456, 460, 464), at least two accumulator modules (224), each of the at least two accumulator modules (24) comprising at least three strings (408, 412, 416) of accumulator cells (420, 424, 428, 432) designed to: in series and connected via the first of the switches (444, 448, 464) to the first positive terminal (210), to be connected in parallel and via the second of the switches (436, 440, 452, 456, 460) to the second positive terminal (214) and to be disconnected from both the first and second positive terminals (210, 214), and a switch control module (240) designed to: during operation in a first performance mode: using a model predictive control (708) based on the SoCs of the strands (408, 412, 416) to determine the time periods of the phases in each case and using a model predictive control (708) based on the SoCs to determine time periods in which the strands (408, 412, 416) are to be connected to the second positive pole (214) and the negative pole (212) during the phases, during operation in a second power mode: to set the time periods of the phases to the same length and to set the time periods for the strands (408, 412, 416) to the same length and to selectively actuate the switches (436, 440, 444, 448, 452, 456, 460, 464) based on the time periods of the phases and the time periods for the strings (408, 412, 416) of accumulator cells (420, 424, 428, 432).

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to vehicles and, in particular, to battery systems of vehicles.

[0002] Some vehicle types only include an internal combustion engine, which generates drive torque. Hybrid vehicles include both an internal combustion engine and one or more electric motors. Some hybrid vehicle types utilize the electric motor and the internal combustion engine to achieve fuel efficiency that is higher than using only the internal combustion engine. Some hybrid vehicle types utilize the electric motor and the internal combustion engine to achieve torque that is higher than the internal combustion engine could achieve alone.

[0003] Some example hybrid vehicle types include parallel hybrid vehicles, series hybrid vehicles, and other hybrid vehicle types. 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, which produces power 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, enabling the use of a smaller and potentially more efficient internal combustion engine. The present application is applicable to electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles, and other vehicle types.

[0004] DE 10 2020 102 806 A1 discloses a capacitance storage system comprising a housing that includes source terminals that supply energy at a first voltage potential to first loads and energy at a second voltage potential to second loads, switches, cells that supply power to each of the source terminals based on states of the switches, and sensing modules that determine parameters of each of the cells and generate corresponding status signals. A control module receives a power request signal and, based on the power request signal and the parameters of each of the cells, determines a connected configuration for the cells relative to each other and the source terminals and sets states of the switches according to the connected configuration.

[0005] Further prior art is described in DE 10 2020 102 727 A1. SUMMARY

[0006] According to the invention, a battery system comprises a first positive pole, a second positive pole, and a negative pole, switches, at least two battery modules, wherein each of the at least two battery modules comprises at least three battery cell strings, which are designed to be connected in series and via a first of the switches to the first positive pole, in parallel and via a second of the switches to the second positive pole, and to be disconnected from both the first and the second positive pole, and a switch control module, which is designed to determine, during operation in a first power mode, time periods of phases using a model-predictive control based on SoCs of the strings, and to determine time periods for the strings to be connected to the second positive pole and the negative pole during the phases using a model-predictive control based on the SoCs,during operation in a second power mode, to adjust the periods of the phases to be equal in length and to adjust the periods for the strings to be equal in length, and to selectively operate the switches based on the periods of the phases and the periods for the strings of battery cells.

[0007] In further features, the switch control module is configured to set a first period of a first of the phases to either (a) greater than or (b) less than a second period of a second of the phases during operation in the first power mode using model predictive control.

[0008] In further features, the switch control module is configured to, during operation in the first power mode, set a third period of a third of the phases to either (a) greater than or (b) less than the second period of the second of the phases and either (a) greater than or (b) less than the first period of the first of the phases using model predictive control.

[0009] In further features, the switch control module is configured to set the first, second, and third time periods of the first, second, and third phases to values ​​that are different from one another during operation in the first power mode using model predictive control.

[0010] In further features, the switch control module is configured to determine the phase timings and string timings based on minimizing an error between the SoCs of the battery cell strings during operation in the first power mode.

[0011] For further features, the error is a square error between the SoCs of the battery cell strings.

[0012] In further features, the switch control module is configured to set the power mode to either the first power mode or the second power mode based on either (a) a first power demand via the first positive terminal or (b) a second power demand via the second positive terminal.

[0013] In further features, the switch control module is designed to operate in the second power mode when the use of model predictive control is not available.

[0014] In further features, the switch control module is configured to determine whether the use of model predictive control is available based on the amount of available computing resources.

[0015] For additional features, the number of performance modes for which model predictive control is available increases with the amount of available computing resources.

[0016] In further features, the switch control module is designed to go through the phases in a predetermined order.

[0017] In further features, each of the battery cell strings comprises several battery cells connected in series.

[0018] In further features, the plurality of battery cells comprise four three-volt battery cells.

[0019] In further features, the switch control module is configured to control the switches so that one of the battery cell strings is not connected to the first positive terminal and the second positive terminal at the same time.

[0020] 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.

[0021] In one feature, an exemplary method comprises selectively connecting battery cell strings of at least two battery modules in series and to a first positive pole via a first of the switches, in parallel and to a second positive pole via a second of the switches, and disconnecting both the first and second positive poles, each of the at least two battery modules comprising three battery cell strings, at different times; during operation in a first power mode, respectively determining time periods of phases using a model predictive controller based on SoCs of the strings; and respectively determining time periods for the strings to be connected to the second positive pole and a negative pole during the phases using a model predictive controller based on the SoCs; during operation in a second power mode, respectively setting the time periods of the phases so thatthat they are of equal length, and setting the respective periods for the strings so that they are of equal length, as well as selectively operating the switches based on the periods of the phases and the periods for the strings of accumulator cells.

[0022] In further features, determining the periods of the phases and the periods for the strings during operation in the first power mode using model predictive control includes setting a first period of a first of the phases to either (a) greater than or (b) less than a second period of a second of the phases.

[0023] In further features, determining the periods of the phases and the periods for the strings during operation in the first power mode during model predictive control comprises setting a third period of a third of the phases to be either (a) greater than or (b) less than the second period of the second of the phases and either (a) greater than or (b) less than the first period of the first of the phases.

[0024] In further features, determining the periods of the phases and the periods for the strings during operation in the first power mode using a model predictive controller includes setting first, second, and third periods of a first, second, and third of the phases to values ​​that are different from one another.

[0025] In further features, determining the periods of the phases and the periods for the strings during operation in the first power mode using model predictive control includes determining the periods of the phases and the periods for the strings based on minimizing an error between the SoCs of the battery cell strings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] 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 are schematic diagrams including an exemplary embodiment of an accumulator system, Fig.4 shows a functional block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of an accumulator module in an open arrangement (X), Fig. 5 comprises an exemplary illustration of the accumulator module in a series arrangement (S), Fig. 6 comprises an exemplary illustration of the accumulator module in a parallel arrangement (P), Fig. 7 shows a functional block diagram of an exemplary switch control module, Fig. 8 includes an exemplary time series for operation in a power mode during charging, Fig. 9 shows a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for balancing the SoCs of the battery strings and modules of a battery, Fig. 10 includes an exemplary graph of the current power mode, the predicted power mode and the standard control operation over the forecast horizon and Fig.11 includes an exemplary graph of the modes and phases over the forecast horizon. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] A rechargeable battery has a first terminal on a housing of the rechargeable battery 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 rechargeable battery can be, for example, a vehicle rechargeable battery. The rechargeable battery comprises a plurality of rechargeable battery modules and a plurality of switches. Each rechargeable battery module comprises a plurality of rechargeable battery strings, and each rechargeable battery string comprises a plurality of rechargeable battery cells. The switches are designed to connect strings together in series or individually to a terminal. The strings can also be disconnected from the first and second output terminals.

[0028] An MPC (Model Predictive Control) module or other type of balancing control module uses estimates or measurements of the SoC of the battery strings and controls the switches to minimize the SoC error between the battery strings and the battery modules during operation in some power modes. This ensures that each battery string is charged and discharged as evenly as possible, maximizing battery life. In other power modes, standard control is used, where the phase and string periods remain constant and no balancing occurs.

[0029] However, the power mode may change during an MPC prediction horizon. Computational resources may be insufficient to transition from one power mode to another while MPC is deployed to balance SoCs. Default switching control can be used when a transition from one power mode to another occurs during the MPC prediction horizon. Default control can include setting the module mode operation phases to the same length and the battery string connection periods to the same length.

[0030] With reference now to Fig.Figure 1 illustrates a functional block diagram of an exemplary powertrain system 100 for a hybrid vehicle. Although the example of a hybrid vehicle is shown, the present application is also applicable to non-vehicle applications and other vehicle types (e.g., electric vehicles, internal combustion engine vehicles, etc.). The powertrain system 100 of a vehicle includes an engine 102 that combusts an air-fuel mixture to produce torque. The vehicle may be non-autonomous or autonomous.

[0031] 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.

[0032] 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. Engine 102 may include, for example, only 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, and / or 12 cylinders. The engine control module 114 may instruct a cylinder actuation module 120 to selectively deactivate some of the cylinders, which may improve fuel economy under certain engine operating conditions.

[0033] The engine 102 may operate on a four-stroke cycle or other suitable engine cycle. The four strokes of a four-stroke cycle, described below, may be 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.

[0034] 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 fuel injection into deactivated cylinders.

[0035] The injected fuel mixes with air to create 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 homogenous charge compression ignition (HCCI) engines, may have both compression ignition and spark ignition. Ignition timing can be specified relative to the time at which the piston is at its top position, known as top dead center (TDC).

[0036] 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 disable the supply of spark to deactivated cylinders or supply spark to deactivated cylinders.

[0037] 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 piston reaching top dead center and the moment the piston returns to its lowest position, known as bottom dead center (BDC).

[0038] During the exhaust stroke, the piston begins to move upward from bottom dead center and expels the combustion byproducts through an exhaust valve 130. The combustion byproducts are removed from the vehicle via an exhaust system 134.

[0039] 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). Similarly, 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). While camshaft-based valve actuation is shown and discussed, camless valve actuators may also be employed.Although separate intake and exhaust camshafts are shown, only one camshaft with cams for the intake and exhaust valves can also be used.

[0040] 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.

[0041] The engine 102 may include none, one, or more than one boost pressure device that supplies compressed air to the intake manifold 110. For example, Fig. 1, a turbocharger with a turbocharger turbine 160-1 driven by the exhaust gases flowing through the exhaust system 134. A supercharger is another type of boost pressure device.

[0042] 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 valve 112. A wastegate 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. Boost 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 wastegate control module 164. The wastegate control module 164 may adjust the boost pressure of the turbocharger by controlling the opening of the wastegate control module 162.

[0043] A cooler (e.g., a charge air cooler or intercooler) may remove some of the heat contained in the compressed air 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 mounted side by side so that the intake air is in close proximity to the hot exhaust gases. The compressed air charge may absorb heat from the components of the exhaust system 134.

[0044] The engine 102 may include an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve 170 that selectively recirculates exhaust gases back into the intake manifold 110. The EGR valve 170 may receive exhaust gas from upstream of the turbocharger turbine 160-1 in the exhaust system 134. The EGR valve 170 may be controlled by an EGR actuator module 172.

[0045] The crankshaft position may be measured with a crankshaft position sensor 180. The 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).

[0046] The pressure in the intake manifold 110 may be measured with a manifold absolute pressure sensor 184. In various embodiments, the engine vacuum, i.e., the difference between the ambient air pressure and the pressure in 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 located in a housing that also includes the throttle valve 112.

[0047] The position of the throttle valve 112 may be measured with one or more throttle position sensors (TPS) 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 the case of 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.,The sensors measure the vehicle's forward / reverse acceleration and the vehicle's lateral acceleration. An accelerometer is an example type of acceleration sensor, although 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.

[0048] The engine control module 114 may, for example, communicate with a transmission control module 194 to coordinate engine operation with gear shifts in a transmission 195. The engine control module 114 may, for example, communicate with a hybrid control module 196 to coordinate operation of the engine 102 and an electric motor 198. Although only one electric motor is given as an example, multiple electric motors may be used. The electric motor 198 may be a permanent magnet electric motor or other suitable electric motor that outputs a voltage based on the back electromagnetic force when freely rotated, 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.

[0049] 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 of 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.

[0050] The spark control module 126 may also be referred to as the engine actuator, and the corresponding actuator value may be the amount of spark advance relative to cylinder top dead center. Other engine actuators may include the cylinder actuator module 120, the fuel control module 124, the phaser actuator module 158, the wastegate actuator module 164, and the EGR actuator module 172. For these engine actuators, the actuator values ​​may correspond to a cylinder activation / deactivation sequence, fuel delivery, intake and exhaust camshaft phaser angles, the desired wastegate opening, and the EGR valve opening, respectively.

[0051] 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, for example, based 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, for example, using one or more functions or lookup tables that relate the driver input(s) to torque requests.

[0052] 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.

[0053] The hybrid control module 196 supplies electrical energy from an accumulator 208 ( Fig.2) to the electric motor 198 to cause the electric motor 198 to output positive torque. The accumulator is discussed 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 implemented 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. In vehicles, such as electric vehicles and autonomous vehicles, the accumulator 208 can be used to power various systems, such as:B. ASIL systems (Automotive Safety Integrity Level) and driver assistance systems (FAS), to supply self-redundant power and to operate multiple output voltages (e.g. 12 and 48 volts).

[0054] 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 engages the starter motor 202 with the engine 102 for an engine starting operation. For example only, the engine control module 114 may engage the starter motor 202 with the engine 102 when a key-on command is received. A driver may input a key-on command, e.g., by actuating one or more ignition keys, buttons, and / or switches of the vehicle or a key fob of the vehicle. The starter motor 202 may engage a flywheel coupled to the crankshaft or one or more other suitable components that rotate the crankshaft.

[0055] The engine control module 114 may also start the engine in response to an auto-start command during an auto-stop-start event or to an engine start command for a coasting event. Auto-start-stop events include turning off the engine 102 while the vehicle is stationary if the driver has applied the brake pedal and has not issued a key-off command. An auto-start command may be generated while the engine 102 is being turned off for an auto-stop-start event, e.g., if a driver releases the brake pedal and / or applies the accelerator pedal.

[0056] Coasting events may include the engine control module 114 turning off the engine 102 when the vehicle is moving (e.g., vehicle speed greater than a predetermined speed, such as 50 mph), the driver is not applying pressure to the accelerator pedal, and the driver has not issued a key-off command. An engine start command may be generated while the engine 102 is off for a coasting event, e.g., when the driver applies the accelerator pedal. The driver may issue a key-off command, e.g., by actuating one or more ignition keys, buttons, and / or switches, as discussed above.

[0057] A starter actuator, such as a solenoid, may actuate the starter 202 to engage 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 coupled to the starter 202 via a drive shaft and a one-way clutch. A starter actuator module 204 controls the starter drive and the starter 202 based on signals from a starter control module, as discussed below. In various implementations, the starter 202 may be maintained engaged with the engine 102.

[0058] In response to a command to start the engine 102 (e.g., an auto-start command, an engine start command for the end of 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 actuate the starter actuator to engage the starter 202 with the engine 102. The starter actuator module 204 may supply power to the starter 202 after the starter 202 has been engaged with the engine 102, for example, to enable gear engagement.

[0059] Applying power to the starter 202 causes the starter 202 to rotate, and the starter 202 rotates the crankshaft (e.g., via the flywheel). The period during which the starter 202 drives the crankshaft to start the engine 102 may be referred to as engine cranking.

[0060] The starter motor 202 draws power from the accumulator 208 to start the engine 102. Once the engine 102 is running after the engine starting process, the starter motor 202 disengages or is disengaged 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, e.g., a predetermined idle speed. The predetermined idle speed may be, for example, only approximately 700 revolutions per minute (rpm) or another suitable speed. Engine starting may be considered complete when the engine 102 is running.

[0061] 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 accumulator 208. Alternatively, a rectifier can be used external to the generator 206 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 generator starter (BAS), the starter 202 and the generator 206 can be used together. In various implementations, one or more DC-DC converters can be used.

[0062] Fig.2 shows a functional block diagram of an exemplary battery system of a vehicle. The battery 208 has at least two (positive) output terminals and one negative terminal to provide at least two DC operating voltages. For example only, the battery 208 may have a first positive terminal 210 (e.g., with a nominal voltage of 48 volts (V)), a negative terminal 212, and a second positive terminal 214 (e.g., with a nominal voltage of 12 V). Although the example of the battery 208 is shown with a nominal operating voltage of 48 V and a nominal operating voltage of 12 V, the battery 208 may also have one or more other operating voltages.

[0063] The accumulator 208 includes a plurality of accumulator modules, such as a first accumulator module 224-1, ..., and an N-th accumulator module 224-N ("accumulator 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, 12, or any other suitable number.

[0064] As explained below with regard to Fig. As discussed in Figure 4, each of the battery modules 224 includes multiple battery strings. Each battery string can be individually replaced. By allowing the battery strings to be replaced individually, the battery pack 208 can include a shorter warranty period and lower warranty costs. The battery strings can also be individually disconnected, e.g., in the event of a failure in one battery string. In various implementations, the battery pack 208 can have the form factor of a standard 12V automotive battery pack.

[0065] The accumulator 208 includes a plurality of switches, such as first switches 232-1, ..., Nth switches 232-N (collectively, "switch 232"). With the switches 232, the accumulator strings of the accumulator modules 224 can be connected in series, parallel, or in a combination of series and parallel connections to provide the desired output voltages and capacitances at the output terminals.

[0066] A switch control module 240 controls the switches 232 to provide the desired output voltages and capacitances at the output terminals. The switch control module 240 controls the switches 232 using model predictive control (MPC) or another type of balancing control to balance the battery string states of charge (SoCs) as best as possible, as discussed further below.

[0067] Fig.3A-3B show schematic diagrams including an exemplary battery system including battery 208. Sets of battery strings can 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 can be connected (via one 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. The number of battery strings connected to first positive terminal 210 and second positive terminal 214 determines the portions of the total capacity of battery 208 available at each of the positive terminals.

[0068] As in Fig.3B, a first set of vehicle electrical components operates at one of the two or more operating voltages of the battery pack 208. For example, the first set of vehicle electrical components may be connected to the second positive terminal 214. The first set of vehicle electrical components may include, for example, among other things, 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.

[0069] As in Fig.3A, a second set of vehicle electrical components operates at another of the two or more operating voltages of the battery pack 208. For example, the second set of vehicle electrical components may be connected to the first positive terminal 210. The second set of vehicle electrical components may include, for example, among others, the generator 206 and various electrical loads, such as the 48V loads 328. The generator 206 may be controlled to charge the battery pack 208.

[0070] Each of the switches 232 may be an insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT), a field effect transistor (FET), e.g., a metal oxide semiconductor FET (MOSFET), or another suitable type of switch.

[0071] Fig.4 shows a functional block diagram of an exemplary implementation of one of the accumulator modules 224, a numbered accumulator module 404, and a set of switches 232. Each of the accumulator modules 224 may be identical to 404, and each set of switches 232 may be identical.

[0072] The battery module 404 includes three battery strings 408, 412, and 416. The battery strings 408-416 are identical and each include four battery cells 420, 424, 428, and 432. The battery cells 420-432 are connected in series to provide the second operating voltage (e.g., 12 V). Each of the battery cells 420-432 can, for example, be a 3 V battery cell or have another suitable voltage to provide the second operating voltage when the battery cells 420-432 are connected in series. The battery cells 420-432 can, for example, be lithium iron phosphate battery cells (LFP batteries) or cells with another suitable chemistry.

[0073] 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 open to disconnect the negative terminals of battery strings 408 and 412 from negative terminal 212.

[0074] The negative terminal of the battery string 416 can be directly connected to the negative terminal 212.

[0075] 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.

[0076] Switches 452, 456, and 460 connect or disconnect the positive terminals of battery strings 408, 412, and 416 to a first bus (e.g., a 12V bus) connected to the second positive terminal 214. Switch 464 connects or disconnects the positive terminal of battery string 408 to a second bus (e.g., a 48V bus) connected to the first positive terminal 210.

[0077] The switch control module 240 controls the switching of the switches of the respective battery modules 224 (the switch group). At any given time, the switch control module 240 can actuate the switches associated with a battery module such that the battery module is in an open configuration (X), a series configuration (S), or a parallel configuration (P). Fig.4 includes an exemplary illustration of the battery module 404 in the open configuration (X). When a battery module is in the open configuration (X), all battery strings of the battery module are disconnected from both the first positive terminal 210 and the second positive terminal 214.

[0078] Fig. 5 includes an exemplary illustration of the battery module 404 in the series arrangement (S). When a battery module is in the series arrangement (S), all battery strings of the battery modules are connected in series and 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 arrangement (S).

[0079] Fig.6 includes an exemplary illustration of the battery module 404 in the parallel arrangement (P). When a battery module is in the parallel arrangement (P), all battery strings of the battery modules are in parallel and connected to the first 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 arrangement (P).

[0080] Fig. 7 shows a functional block diagram of an exemplary implementation of a switch control module 240. A switch module 704 applies signals to (e.g., gate poles) of the switches 232 (of the switch sets) of the battery modules 224 to control the operation of the switches 232 and to control whether each of the battery modules 224 is in the open state (X), the series state (S), or the parallel state (P).

[0081] The switching module 704 applies the signals based on inputs from a Model Predictive Control (MPC) module 708. While the MPC module example is shown, another type of balancing control module may be used. The MPC module 708 determines, based on one or more operating parameters, a predicted power mode over a prediction horizon (e.g., the next 9 seconds or another suitable period), a current actual / desired power mode, phase durations, and string and module connection and disconnection times, and generates the output for the switching module 704. The MPC module 708 further generates the output based on conditions 712 set by a condition module 716. Examples of conditions 712 include, for example, that a battery string may not be connected to either the first or second positive terminals 210 and 214 if its battery module is in the X-connection.A battery string may not be connected to the first and second positive terminals 210 and 214 simultaneously. A battery string may not be connected to the second positive terminal 214 more than once if this battery module is to be connected in parallel mode (P). The phase durations can be limited to meet the demand on the first positive terminal 210. The duration of the connection of each string can be limited (restricted) to the end of the phase. The number of channels (battery strings) per battery module can be limited to meet a demand on the second positive terminal 210. The MPC module 708 can therefore better and faster balance the SoCs of the battery strings and the battery modules.

[0082] One, several, or all of the conditions 712 may be fixed conditions. In various implementations, one or more of the conditions 712 may be variable. The condition module 716 may set variable conditions based on one or more operating parameters 714. Examples of the operating parameters 714 include, for example, the current power mode, the predicted power mode, a predicted duration of the current power mode, and other example operating parameters.

[0083] The MPC module 708 can adjust the phase periods, module connection periods, and string periods based on the operating parameters 714, as mentioned above. However, if the current power mode deviates from the predicted power mode, the MPC module 708 enters the current power mode and switches to the default control for adjusting the phase periods, module periods, and string periods. Under the default control, the MPC module sets each phase to have the same duration, each module is connected for the same duration during a phase, and each string is connected for the same duration during a phase.

[0084] A state of charge (SoC) module 718 determines the current state of charge (SoC) 720 of the respective battery strings. In other words, the SoC module 718 determines the current SoCs 720 of the respective battery strings. The SoC module 718 may determine the current SoC of a battery string based, for example, on a voltage across the battery string and / or the current to and from that battery string. The SoC module 718 may determine the current SoC of a battery string using an equation and / or a lookup table that relates voltage and / or current to the SoC. In various implementations, the SoC module 718 may determine the SoC of a battery string based on the impedance of the battery string, for example, to more accurately relate voltage and current to the SoC. The SoC module 718 does this for each battery string.Temperatures, voltages and currents of the battery strings 724 can be measured with temperature, voltage or current sensors.

[0085] When not operating using standard control, 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 errors) between the SoCs of the respective battery strings for the current power mode. The MPC module 708 may further control the switching of the switches based on the current output demand via the first and second positive terminals 210 and 214 and the predicted output demand from the first and second positive terminals 210 and 214. The current and predicted output demands are illustrated by 728.

[0086] To balance the SoCs of strings 720 without using standard control, the MPC module 708 uses MPC to set the phase durations for each of the three phases (Phase 1, Phase 2, and Phase 3), a number of battery strings connected in P-mode, and a duration for which each of the battery strings is connected in P-mode. The phase durations can be set to different lengths based on string and / or module balancing. Each power mode is associated with a set of arrangements (X-mode, P-mode, or S-mode) of battery modules 224 for that power mode. A table illustrating the power modes and battery module modes for each phase is provided below. The MPC module 708 cycles through the phases (Phase 1, Phase 2, Phase 3, then back to Phase 1, etc.) multiple times until the power mode is changed. Performance mode Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3 situation 1 (XXX mode) XXX XXX XXX OUT OF 2 (XXP mode) XXP PXX XPX 12V sleep mode 3 (XXS mode) XXS SXX XSX 48V low power mode with diagnostics 4 (XPP mode) XPP PXP PPX 12V medium power mode with diagnostics 5 (SXP mode) SXP PSX XPS Energy-saving dual-voltage mode with diagnostics 6 (XSS mode) XSS SXS SSX 48 V medium power with diagnostics 7 (PPP mode) PPP PPP PPP 12V high-performance start mode 8 (PPS mode) PPS SPP PSP Normal 2-voltage mode 9 (PSS mode) PSS PLC SSP Normal 2-voltage mode 10 (SSS mode) SSS SSS SSS 48V high-performance mode

[0087] 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). Only one of the strings of the third battery module (operating in P mode) can be disconnected before the end of the first phase to better balance the strings of the third battery module. 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).Only one of the strings of the first battery module (operating in P mode) can be disconnected before the end of the second phase to better balance the strings of the first battery module. 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). Only one of the strings of the second battery module (operating in P mode) can be disconnected before the end of the third phase to better balance the strings of the second battery module.

[0088] When not operating using standard control, the MPC module 708 sets the duration (length) of each of the first, second, and third phases based on the balance of the SoCs of each battery string and each battery module. For example, in XXP mode, the battery strings of one battery module have (e.g., on average) lower SoCs than the other two battery modules, so that during charging, 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. As a result, the SoCs of the other two battery modules are increased by less than the SoC of one battery module, so that the SoCs are more balanced across the battery modules. During discharging, the battery strings of one battery module (e.g.,On average, one battery module has lower SoCs than the other two, so that the MPC module 708 can 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. As a result, the SoCs of the other two battery modules drop more than the SoC of the one battery module, so that the SoCs are more balanced across the battery modules.

[0089] If standard control is not used, the MPC module 708 adjusts the duration (length / period) of each phase so that each battery string is connected to the second positive terminal 214 to balance the individual SoCs of the battery strings of each module. For example, if during charging one battery string of a battery module has a lower SoC than the other battery strings of that battery module, the MPC module 708 can adjust the duration for which one of the battery strings is connected to the second positive terminal 214 longer than the duration of the other battery strings of the battery module. This increases the SoC of one battery string of the battery module more than the SoCs of the other battery strings of the battery module, so that the SoCs within the battery module are more balanced. The MPC module 708 does this for each battery module.For example, if during discharging, one battery string of a battery module has a lower SoC 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 of the other battery strings of the battery module. As a result, the SoC of one battery string of the battery module is reduced less than the SoCs of the other battery strings of the battery module, so that the SoCs within the battery module are more balanced. The MPC module 708 does this for each battery module when operating in parallel mode (P).

[0090] As another example, during charging, if one battery string of a battery module has a SoC that is higher than that of the other battery strings of that battery module, the MPC module 708 can adjust the duration for which one of the battery strings is to be connected to the second positive terminal 214 such that one of the battery strings is disconnected before the end of the phase (i.e., shorter than the phase) and the other two battery strings are connected to the second positive terminal 214 for the entire duration of the phase (i.e., for the length of the phase). This increases the SoC of one battery string of the battery module less than the SoCs of the other battery strings of the battery module, so that the SoCs within the battery module are more balanced. The MPC module 708 does this for each battery module.If a battery string of a battery module has a SoC that is lower than that of the other battery strings of that battery module, the MPC module 708 can adjust the discharge duration for one of the battery strings such that one of the battery strings is disconnected before the end of the phase (i.e., shorter than the phase) and the other two battery strings are connected to the second positive terminal 214 for the entire duration of the phase (i.e., for the length of the phase). As a result, the SoC of one battery string of the battery module is reduced less than the SoCs of the other battery strings of the battery module, so that the SoCs within the battery module are more balanced. The MPC module 708 does this for each battery module when operating in parallel mode (P).

[0091] Fig.8 includes an exemplary time series when, without using the default control for operating in power mode 5 (SXP), the battery 208 is charged via the second positive terminal 214 while being charged or discharged via the first positive terminal 210, for example, with a low current. 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, 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 are respectively in parallel (P), series (S), or open (X). The first phase includes, for example, the 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 includes 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).

[0092] In the example of Fig.8, where standard control is not used, 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 shorter than the duration of the first phase. When charging via the second positive terminal 214, the battery strings of the first battery module (connected in parallel (P) in the second phase) can be charged more than the other battery modules, and the battery strings of the second battery module (connected in parallel (P) in the third phase) can be charged less than the battery strings of the third battery module. The third battery module operates in parallel mode (P) in the first phase.

[0093] During the first phase 804, the MPC module 708 connected the third battery string 824 of the third battery module to the second positive terminal 214 for a shorter total duration 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 in order to balance the SoCs of the first, second, and third battery strings 816, 820, and 824 of the third battery module.

[0094] During the second phase 808, the MPC module 708 has connected the first battery string 828 of the first battery module to the second positive terminal 214 for a shorter total duration than the second and third battery strings 832 and 836 of the first battery module. This allows the second and third battery strings 832 and 836 of the first battery module to be charged more strongly than the first battery string 828 of the first battery module in order to balance the SoCs of the first, second, and third battery strings 828, 832, 836 of the first battery module.

[0095] During the third phase 812, the MPC module 708 has connected the second battery string 844 of the second battery module to the second positive terminal 214 for a shorter total duration than the first and third battery strings 840 and 848 of the second battery module. This allows the first and third battery strings 840 and 848 of the second battery module to be charged more strongly than the second battery string 844 of the second battery module in order to balance the SoCs of the first, second, and third battery strings 840, 844, 848 of the second battery module.

[0096] The controller then returns to the first phase if 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.

[0097] While Fig.8 to illustrate the charging process, a similar situation also applies to the discharging process. For example, if the SoCs of the third strings of the first, second, and third battery modules are lower than the SoCs of the first and second strings of the first to third battery modules, respectively, the MPC module 708 can connect the third strings of the first to third battery modules to the second positive terminal 214 for a shorter total duration than the first and second strings of the first to third battery modules during the respective phases. As a result, the third strings are discharged less than the first and second strings, and the SoCs of the battery strings are balanced.

[0098] Fig.9 shows a flowchart illustrating an example method for balancing the SoCs of the battery strings of the battery modules of the battery pack 208 without using a standard controller (e.g., MPC controller). Control begins at 904, where the SoC module 718 determines the SoCs of the battery strings (first, second, and third) of each of the battery modules 224 (first, second, and third) of the battery pack 208.

[0099] At 908, the SoC module 718 may determine the SoCs of the battery modules (first, second, and third) based on the battery strings of the respective battery modules. For example, the SoC module 718 may determine a SoC of the first battery module based on an average of the SoCs of the battery strings (first, second, and third) of the first battery module. The SoC module 718 may determine a SoC of the second battery module based on an average of the SoCs of the battery strings (first, second, and third) of the second battery module. The SoC module 718 may determine a SoC of the third battery module based on an average of the SoCs of the battery strings (first, second, and third) of the third battery module.

[0100] At 912, the MPC module 708 determines the power mode, as described above. The MPC module 708 may select one of the above-mentioned power modes, e.g., the SXP mode, the XPP mode, the XXP mode, or another of the above-mentioned modes.

[0101] At 916, the MPC module 708 determines the phase durations (the periods of the first, second, and third phases) based on the power mode and the SoCs of the battery modules. For example, for discharging in XXP mode, 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 SoC of that battery module is lower than the SoC of the other battery modules. The MPC module 708 determines the phase durations using the MPC, where the phase durations may be different. In other words, the phase durations do not necessarily have to be the same (via conditions 712).

[0102] At 920, the MPC module 708 determines the duration of connection of each string of each battery module within the phases. As discussed above, only one string of a battery module intended to operate in P-mode during a phase may be disconnected before the end of the phase. For example, when charging in P-mode 1040, the MPC module 708 may charge two battery strings longer (until the end of a phase) than another battery string (disconnecting before the end of the phase) if the battery strings have lower SoCs than the other battery string. When discharging, the MPC module 708 may discharge one battery string longer than the other battery string if the battery strings have higher SoCs than the other battery string.The MPC module 708 determines the battery string durations using the MPC and can set via the conditions 712 that only one of the battery strings of a battery module is disconnected before the end of a phase in which this battery module is to be operated in P-mode.

[0103] In various implementations, 912 and 916 may be executed concurrently by the MPC module 708. The optimization cost criterion may be zero if the SoCs of all strings are the same and may increase if the differences between the SoCs are larger. One possible formulation of such a cost criterion is a weighted sum of the squared differences between the SoCs 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 three 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-array. The minimization of the cost criterion is subject to constraints 712.Violating a constraint increases the cost of an opportunity, thus preventing the opportunity from being selected and utilized. Using the initial demand and predictions 728, the MPC module 708 can evaluate the cost criterion for any set of connection durations. The solution to the minimization problem is the set of phase durations and branch connection durations that best balances the branch SoCs over the scheduling horizon, taking into account constraints 712 and any additional penalty conditions.

[0104] At 924, the switching module 704 actuates the switches 232 according to the power mode, phase durations, and battery string durations. Control returns to 904 to initiate another loop.

[0105] Fig.10 includes an example graph of the current power mode 1004, the predicted power mode 1008, and the default control mode 1012 over the prediction horizon (period) 1016. The prediction horizon 1016 may be approximately 9 seconds or another suitable length. The MPC module 708 determines the predicted power mode over the prediction horizon based on one or more operating parameters, e.g., the predicted output demand across the positive poles. The MPC module 708 may determine the predicted power mode using one or more equations and / or lookup tables that relate the predicted output demand to predicted power modes. In Fig. Although the example in Figure 10 is illustrated with eleven power modes, a larger or smaller number of power modes can also be used.

[0106] The MPC module 708 may set the current power mode based on the current power demand at the positive terminals. For example, the MPC module 708 may set the current power mode to the tenth power mode (SSS) when power is being requested (or input) via the positive terminal 210 and no power is being requested (or input) via the positive terminal 214. As another example, the MPC module 708 may set the current power mode to the seventh power mode (PPP) when no power is being requested (or input) via the positive terminal 210 and power is being requested (or input) via the positive terminal 214.

[0107] The MPC module 708 may set the predicted performance mode to remain the same for the entire prediction horizon. The MPC module 708 may update the predicted performance mode for each successive prediction horizon. This may be done, for example, to reduce computational resources. If the MPC module 708 causes the current performance mode to transition to a mode that differs from the predicted performance mode for the prediction horizon, the MPC module 708 may transition to default control while operating in the current performance mode that differs from the predicted performance mode for the prediction horizon.

[0108] The left group of three graphics from Fig.For example, Figure 10 illustrates that the predicted performance mode 1008 was the third mode 1020 for the prediction horizon. The current performance mode 1004 was the same as the predicted performance mode during periods 1024 and 1028 of the prediction horizon. However, the current performance mode 1004 differed from the predicted performance mode during period 1032 within the prediction horizon. In the example of Fig. 10, the current power mode transitioned to the tenth mode 1036 and then to the ninth mode 1040 based on the operating parameters during the period 1032 within the forecast horizon.

[0109] Since the current power mode transitions to power modes where MPC control is not available, the MPC module 708 sets the time periods during operation in the tenth and ninth power modes using the default control (equal phase durations, equal module durations, and equal string durations). Power modes where MPC control is not available are shown in the example of Fig. 10 shaded 1008. MPC control (with possibly different phase periods, module connection periods and / or string connection periods) occurs during 1024 and 1028. Standard control is used during 1036 and 1040.

[0110] The number of performance modes in which the MPC control is available within each prediction horizon can be specified and adjusted based on the computing resources allocated to the switch control module 240. The computing resources allocated to the switch control module 240 can be fixed or variable. The left group of the three graphs of Fig. Figure 10 illustrates that, given the allocated computing resources, only one performance mode is available for using the MPC control within each prediction horizon. The right group of the three graphs of Fig.Figure 10 illustrates the example where seven power modes are available for the MPC controller. The predicted power mode may be one of the available power modes for the MPC controller. The MPC module 708 may set the one or more other available power modes for the MPC controller, for example, to the one or more most frequently used power modes during the last specified period (e.g., 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, etc.).

[0111] On the right three graphics of the example of Fig.10, performance modes 3-9 are available for use with MPC control. The predicted performance mode 1008 was the third mode 1020 for the prediction horizon. The current performance mode 1004 was the same as the predicted performance mode during periods 1024 and 1028 of the prediction horizon. However, the current performance mode 1004 differed from the predicted performance mode during period 1032 within the prediction horizon. The current performance mode transitioned to the tenth mode 1036 and then to the ninth mode 1040 based on the operating parameters during period 1032 within the prediction horizon.

[0112] On the right side of Fig.However, in 10, the use of MPC control was available during operation in the ninth mode, 1040. Therefore, standard control was used during operation in the tenth mode, and MPC control was used during operation in the third mode during periods 1024 and 1028, as well as in the ninth mode, 1040.

[0113] Fig. Figure 11 includes an example graph of the modes and phases over the forecast horizon. In the example of Fig. 11, MPC control is available only during Mode 2 operation, illustrated by line 1104, and standard control is used for Mode 1, Mode 3, and Mode 4 operation, illustrated by lines 1108, 1112, and 1116, respectively. The first, second, and third phases used by the MPC module 708 are illustrated by 1120, 1124, and 1128, respectively.

[0114] Initially, Mode 2 and MPC control are used. However, in the first phase, the mode transitions from Mode 2 to Mode 3. The MPC module 708 uses the default control during operation in Mode 3. In the first phase 1120, the mode also transitions to Mode 4. The MPC module 708 uses the default control during operation in Mode 4.

[0115] In the second phase 1124, the mode transitions from mode 4 to mode 2. The MPC module 708 therefore transitions to MPC control. The mode remains in mode 2, and MPC control continues until the mode transitions from mode 2 to mode 1 after the start of the third phase 1128. After the transition from mode 2, the MPC module 708 begins mode 1 with the third phase of standard control and holds until time 1132. After time 1132, the MPC module 708 continues mode 1 with standard control until the end of the third phase 1128.

[0116] For the purposes of this application, which includes the definitions below, the term "module" or the term "controller" may be replaced by 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 (common, dedicated, or group) executing code, memory circuitry (common, dedicated, or group) storing code executed by the processor circuitry, other suitable hardware components providing the described functionality, or a combination of some or all of the above components, e.g. in a system on a chip.

[0117] 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 given 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 on behalf of a client module.

[0118] 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.

[0119] The term "memory circuit" is a subset of the term computer-readable medium. The term "computer-readable medium," as used herein, does not include transient 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).

[0120] 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.

[0121] 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.

[0122] The computer programs may comprise: (i) descriptive text to be parsed, e.g. 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 may 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] Accumulator system, comprising: a first positive pole (210), a second positive pole (214) and a negative pole (212), Switches (436, 440, 444, 448, 452, 456, 460, 464), at least two accumulator modules (224), wherein each of the at least two accumulator modules (24) comprises at least three strings (408, 412, 416) of accumulator cells (420, 424, 428, 432) which are designed to: in series and to be connected to the first positive pole (210) via the first of the switches (444, 448, 464), to be connected in parallel and via the second of the switches (436, 440, 452, 456, 460) to the second positive pole (214) and to be separated from both the first and the second positive pole (210, 214), and a switch control module (240) configured to: during operation in a first power mode: to determine the periods of the phases using a model predictive control (708) based on the SoCs of the strands (408, 412, 416) and using a model predictive control (708) based on the SoCs, to determine periods in which the strings (408, 412, 416) are to be connected to the second positive pole (214) and the negative pole (212) during the phases, respectively, while operating in a second power mode: to set the periods of the phases to the same length and to set the time periods for the strands (408, 412, 416) to the same length and to selectively operate the switches (436, 440, 444, 448, 452, 456, 460, 464) based on the periods of the phases and the periods for the strings (408, 412, 416) of accumulator cells (420, 424, 428, 432). [2] The battery system of claim 1, wherein the switch control module (240) is configured to set a first period of a first of the phases to either (a) greater than or (b) less than a second period of a second of the phases during operation in the first power mode using a model predictive controller (708). [3] Battery system according to claim 2, wherein the switch control module (240) is configured to, during operation in the first power mode, use a model predictive controller (708) to determine a third period of a third of the phases: to either (a) greater than or (b) less than the second period of the second of the phases and to be set to either (a) greater than or (b) less than the first period of the first of the phases. [4] The battery module of claim 1, wherein the switch control module (240) is configured to set the first, second, and third time periods of the first, second, and third phases to values that are different from one another during operation in the first power mode using a model predictive controller (708). [5] The battery module of claim 1, wherein the switch control module (240) is configured to determine the phase time periods and the string time periods (408, 412, 416) based on minimizing an error between the SoCs of the battery cell strings (408, 412, 416) during operation in the first power mode. [6] The battery system of claim 5, wherein the error is a square error between the SoCs of the battery cell strings (408, 412, 416). [7] The battery system of claim 1, wherein the switch control module (240) is configured to set the power mode to either the first power mode or the second power mode based on either (a) a first power demand via the first positive terminal (210) or (b) a second power demand via the second positive terminal (214). [8] The battery system of claim 1, wherein the switch control module (240) is configured to operate in the second power mode when use of the model predictive control (708) is not available. [9] The accumulator system of claim 8, wherein the switch control module (240) is configured to determine whether use of the model predictive controller (708) is available based on the amount of available computing resources. [10] The accumulator system of claim 9, wherein the number of power modes in which the model predictive controller (708) is available increases with the amount of available computing resources.

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