Accumulator and method for operating an accumulator

Abstract

The present invention relates to a battery (1), in particular an IoT battery, comprising at least one battery cell (2) for receiving, storing, and discharging energy, an energy interface (3) for connecting the battery (1) to an end device and / or an external energy source, and a first control unit (4) for controlling the at least one battery cell (2) and / or the energy interface (3). The invention also relates to a method for operating a battery (1). According to the invention, the battery (1) is characterized in that the first control unit (4) comprises a first control core (5) and a second control core (6), or that the battery (1) comprises a second control unit (7) in addition to the first control unit (4).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery, in particular an IoT battery, comprising at least one battery cell for receiving, storing and discharging energy, an energy interface for connecting the battery to an end device and / or an external energy source, and a first control unit for controlling the at least one battery cell and / or the energy interface. The invention also relates to a method for operating a battery.

[0002] Rechargeable batteries have been around for a long time. They are used, for example, to power power tools. Usually, several batteries are used alternately to avoid interruptions while working with the power tool. The increased capacities of recent decades allow even larger power devices, such as lawnmowers, to be operated with rechargeable batteries. Most power tool manufacturers use battery systems with corresponding chargers and batteries whose energy interfaces are designed in a specific way, so that batteries from one manufacturer are generally not compatible with power tools from another manufacturer. Therefore, purchasing a battery system significantly contributes to customer loyalty to a power tool manufacturer.

[0003] It is therefore desirable to equip batteries with additional functions as a selling point, thereby giving the batteries themselves, and potentially also the end devices they power, a market advantage. For example, intelligent functions such as user programmability can be added to the batteries. Batteries can also be given extensive communication capabilities with users and other devices. In this way, the batteries can be integrated into the ever-evolving Internet of Things (IoT). An intelligent IoT battery, for instance, can communicate with a user via various end devices. The energy output and input, especially the voltage and current levels, as well as the timing and intervals of energy output and input, can potentially be individually set or programmed by the user.However, it should be ensured that the operational safety of the accumulator is not compromised.

[0004] The object of the present invention is therefore to propose a safe accumulator and a method by which an accumulator can be operated safely.

[0005] The problem is solved by an accumulator and a method for operating an accumulator with the features of the independent patent claims.

[0006] The accumulator according to the invention is designed in particular as an IoT accumulator. This includes, for example, some or all of the functions already described above. The accumulator preferably comprises at least one accumulator cell for receiving, storing, and discharging energy. The accumulator cell provides, in particular, the basic function of the accumulator: operating connected end devices. The accumulator can have a varying number of accumulator cells depending on the required energy capacity. For example, the accumulator may comprise at least two accumulator cells. The accumulator cells are, in particular, rechargeable by a charger connected to the accumulator.

[0007] Furthermore, the accumulator preferably includes a power interface for connecting the accumulator to a terminal device and / or an external power source. The power interface provides, in particular, a connection between the at least one accumulator cell and a connected charger or terminal device. The accumulator also includes a first control unit for controlling the at least one accumulator cell and / or the power interface. In known accumulators, for example, the first control unit manages the charging and discharging processes and monitors the accumulator's operating parameters.

[0008] According to the invention, the accumulator is characterized in that the first control unit comprises a first control core and a second control core, or that the accumulator comprises a second control unit in addition to the first control unit. The aim of this embodiment is, in particular, to separate the safety functions of the accumulator from the extended functions, so that, for example, it is ensured that the safety functions are not affected by the extended functions and thus, preferably, that the accumulator is always operated within predefined safety parameters. The separate control structure creates, for example, a secure area to which a user has no access within the scope of the accumulator's intelligent functions. It is always ensured that the accumulator can perform its basic functions safely.

[0009] The unsecured area can be configured very freely by the user or through updates, for example, without any risk to the operational safety of the accumulator.

[0010] It is advantageous if the first control unit or the first control core of the first control unit is configured as a battery management system. This allows the first control unit or control core to take over the essential tasks of monitoring and controlling the battery cells. This includes, for example, monitoring the state of charge, voltage, current flow, and / or temperature of individual battery cells and / or the entire battery. This specialization ensures that the critical safety and performance functions of the battery are managed by a dedicated system. The first control unit or control core can also be equipped with protective functions that safeguard the battery against overcharging, deep discharging, or thermal overload.

[0011] It is particularly advantageous if the second control unit or control core is designed as an IoT interface or includes one. This allows the battery to be connected to IoT networks and services. The IoT interface can, for example, collect and process data about the battery's condition and performance and transmit it to external systems via standardized communication protocols. Conversely, control commands or configuration changes can also be received and processed externally. The IoT interface can be flexibly networked, for example, via a battery data interface, particularly through cellular networks, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, and / or Long Range Wide Area Network (LoRaWAN).

[0012] The IoT interface allows the battery to communicate with other batteries, chargers, end devices, and / or consumer electronics in the vicinity. For example, a battery with a low charge can alert a user to a nearby battery with a higher charge or a nearby charger. Operating parameters, updates, and environmental data can also be exchanged. For instance, a battery exposed to high temperatures or humidity can alert a user via their smartphone.

[0013] The battery can also connect to a tracking service, such as those operated by large mobile phone manufacturers, and thus be found again in case of loss or theft.

[0014] It offers particular advantages if the second control unit or control core includes a programming interface. This allows users to freely configure the accumulator within its safety parameters. On the one hand, for example, intelligent devices can be controlled by programs stored in the accumulator. On the other hand, devices without intelligent functions can also be individually controlled by programs stored in the accumulator. Specifically, periods of energy output and input, as well as voltage and current, can be defined. For example, if lighting is powered by the accumulator, it can be set to activate the lighting in the evening by the accumulator's energy output. The brightness of the lighting can potentially be influenced by the output voltage and current.If the lighting can communicate with the battery, it is possible, for example, to set a color or color mixture of the lighting by programming the battery.

[0015] User-defined operating program data can be provided, for example, by an external delivery unit. The delivery unit could be, for example, a cloud, a smartphone, a PC, and / or a laptop, and in particular, the delivery unit is connected to the battery's data interface. The delivery unit may include a user interface, particularly a graphical one, and / or programming software, particularly a graphical one.

[0016] The programming interface can, in particular, provide an API (Application Programming Interface) through which external applications can access specific functions and data of the accumulator. For example, a user can control accumulator functions via a smartphone application. The programming interface is preferably designed to have access only to the unprotected area of ​​the accumulator, specifically the second control unit or the second control core, in order to ensure the security of the core functions.

[0017] It is also advantageous if the first and / or second control unit is implemented as a microcontroller, particularly a programmable microcontroller. Microcontrollers offer a compact and energy-efficient solution for controlling the accumulator. They combine, for example, the processing unit, memory, and various peripheral interfaces in a single component, reducing the space required and the complexity of the circuit. The components of the first and / or second control unit, described above and below, can be integrated into a microcontroller. If the first control unit has a first control core and a second control core, each control core, for example, includes its own processing unit.

[0018] It is also advantageous if the battery includes at least one battery data interface, and in particular one or more battery data interfaces for bidirectional data exchange. This interface enables, for example, direct and standardized communication between the battery and external devices. The battery data interface can preferably be implemented as a physical connection, such as a USB port or a proprietary connector. It can also be integrated into the power interface. Data can potentially be transferred via the same contacts used to supply power to end devices.

[0019] Additionally or alternatively, the battery data interface can also be configured as a wireless interface. This wireless interface can be configured as a short-range and / or long-range wireless interface. It can support long-range wireless technologies such as Sigfox, LoRaWAN, 5G, LTE, satellite communication, LTE-M, DASH7, WiFi, the HAPS mobile communication standard, NB-IoT, and / or WiMAX. The use of all common mobile communication standards is conceivable, in particular 5G, 4G, 3G, 2G, and LTE-CAT M. The use of a proprietary mobile communication protocol developed specifically for this purpose is also possible. Additionally or alternatively, the wireless data interface can support short-range wireless technologies such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, NFC, Z-Wave, infrared, Thread, ultra-wideband, Bluetooth Low Energy, ANT+, Wi-Fi Direct, and / or RFID.In conjunction with IoT functionality, the battery data interface can, for example, be used to integrate the battery into larger energy management systems. This enables efficient load balancing in systems with multiple batteries. The battery data interface can also be used for firmware updates or the configuration of user-defined functions without having to open or remove the battery from the device. The battery data interface can communicate with a cloud, with bidirectional communication. It can both receive data from and send data to the cloud. Detailed information about the battery's state of charge, temperature, or remaining lifespan can be transmitted in real time via the battery data interface.This can be used particularly for diagnostic purposes or to optimize battery usage. For example, the battery can have an external interface for a plug-in external antenna to improve signal transmission.

[0020] Furthermore, it offers advantages if the battery data interface is connected exclusively to the second control unit or control core. This configuration supports the functional separation between critical safety functions and the battery's extended communication capabilities. The exclusive connection to the second control unit or control core prevents direct access to safety-relevant functions of the first control unit or control core via the battery data interface. The second control unit or control core can act as an intermediary, transmitting only selected, non-critical data via the battery data interface or forwarding non-critical control commands to the first control unit or control core.

[0021] This architecture also allows updates or configuration changes to be performed via the battery data interface without the risk of accidentally affecting safety-critical functions. Furthermore, the battery data interface can be used, in particular, to implement user-defined functions that are exclusively the responsibility of the second control unit or the second control core.

[0022] It is also advantageous if a data connection between the second control unit and the first control unit, or between the second control core and the first control core, includes read permissions but, in particular, no write permissions. For example, the second control unit or control core can have read permissions but, specifically, no write permissions for the first control unit or control core. This configuration allows the second control unit or control core to retrieve relevant information from the first control unit or control core without being able to modify critical functions or parameters. The second control unit or control core can, for example, read data about the state of charge, temperature, or other operating parameters and use this data for IoT applications or user information.Restricting write access prevents potential security risks or malfunctions in the second control unit or control core from affecting the accumulator's fundamental safety and operational functions. For example, write access to program functionalities can be completely disabled. It is conceivable that restricted write access could be permitted at the parameter level, particularly within a specific value range. For instance, the accumulator's shutdown temperature could be reduced, though not increased, for safety reasons. This accumulator implementation can be achieved through hardware measures such as unidirectional data lines or safety circuits. Alternatively, software-based access controls can be used.

[0023] It is also advantageous if the first control unit has a data storage component, wherein the data storage includes a protected area that is exclusively assigned to the first control core. This enables the secure storage of critical data and operating parameters of the accumulator. The protected area can, for example, contain calibration data, safety limits, or authentication keys that are essential for the reliable and secure operation of the accumulator. The exclusive assignment to the first control core prevents this sensitive information from being manipulated or potentially read by other system components. The protected area of ​​the data storage can preferably be implemented as a separate physical storage area secured by hardware mechanisms. Alternatively, software-based encryption and access control mechanisms can also be implemented.

[0024] In this context, it is advantageous for the data storage to have an unprotected area, specifically one exclusively assigned to the second control core. This enables flexible use and management of data relevant for advanced functions and user interactions. The unprotected area can, for example, store user-defined programs, user-defined settings, usage statistics, configuration settings for IoT functions, or temporary data for calculations, analyses, and program execution. Assigning it to the second control core ensures a clear separation between safety-critical and user-oriented data. The unprotected area can preferably be designed to be accessible via the IoT interface, the programming interface, and / or the battery data interface.Third-party applications can also access the unprotected area, for example, without compromising sensitive information.

[0025] It is also advantageous if the first control unit or control core includes a read-only memory (ROM). The ROM enables the immutable storage of critical data and program code essential for the basic operation and security of the accumulator. This ensures that key functions and security parameters cannot be accidentally or maliciously altered. The ROM can contain, for example, limit values ​​for operating parameters, basic firmware components, bootloaders, cryptographic keys, and / or security algorithms. The ROM can preferably be implemented as a mask ROM, where the data is hard-coded during manufacturing. Alternatively, one-time programmable (OTP) memory can be used, which allows for one-time programming after production.

[0026] It is advantageous if the second control unit or control core includes random access memory (RAM). This RAM enables fast and flexible processing of data required for the accumulator's extended functions. For example, the RAM can be used to execute user-defined programs and functions and / or to cache data for IoT applications. Allocating the RAM to the second control unit or control core ensures a clear separation between volatile memory for extended functions and persistent memory for critical system functions. The RAM can preferably be implemented as dynamic RAM (DRAM) or static RAM (SRAM).

[0027] The accumulator according to the invention is suitable for operating a wide variety of devices from various application areas. In the field of power tools, for example, it can power cordless drills, cordless angle grinders, various cordless saws such as circular saws, jigsaws, and reciprocating saws, as well as cordless impact drills and cordless hammer drills. Garden equipment such as cordless lawnmowers, cordless hedge trimmers, cordless chainsaws, cordless leaf blowers, cordless pumps, and cordless trimmers can also benefit from this accumulator. In the field of cleaning equipment, it can be used in cordless vacuum cleaners, cordless pressure washers, and cordless sweepers. Mobile devices such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones can also be operated with this accumulator, or the accumulator can serve as a power bank for these devices. In the field of electric vehicles, it is suitable for e-bikes, e-scooters, electric scooters, and electric skateboards.Household appliances such as robotic vacuum cleaners, portable coolers, and battery-powered fans can also benefit from this battery. For outdoor and leisure activities, it can power camping lanterns and electric coolers, for example. The battery can also be used for devices such as security cameras, portable alarm systems, and emergency lighting systems.

[0028] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the battery is designed as a power tool battery, garden tool battery, and / or power tool battery. Power tools, garden tools, and power tools can all benefit equally from the battery's safety architecture.

[0029] As a power tool battery, the battery can be used, for example, in portable measuring devices, lighting equipment, and / or construction site radios. In this function, it is designed to provide reliable and long-lasting energy for intensive work operations.

[0030] In its garden tool configuration, the battery is suitable, for example, for operating devices such as cordless lawnmowers, cordless hedge trimmers, cordless chainsaws, and / or cordless leaf blowers. The battery is designed to withstand the specific stresses and environmental influences of outdoor use.

[0031] As a power tool battery, this battery is particularly suitable for use in power tools such as cordless drills, cordless angle grinders, various cordless saws, and / or cordless impact drills. In this configuration, the battery is designed to deliver high power outputs for short periods while being robust enough to withstand the harsh conditions found on construction sites or in workshops.

[0032] The battery is specifically designed as an IoT work equipment battery, an IoT garden equipment battery and / or an IoT power tool battery.

[0033] It is advantageous if the battery is designed as a portable battery, in particular one that can be detachably attached to a terminal device interface. This mobility allows the battery to be used in different terminal devices and, if necessary, replaced or recharged separately.

[0034] The accumulator features, in particular, a mounting device that includes, for example, mechanical connecting elements for physically attaching the accumulator to the terminal interface. The mounting device may, for example, include a snap mechanism, a sliding lock, and / or a bayonet system.

[0035] The method according to the invention is suitable for operating an accumulator, wherein the accumulator is configured in particular according to the preceding description. The described features can be implemented individually or in any combination. For the method, it is proposed that basic functions of the accumulator are controlled by a first control unit or a first control core of the first control unit, and extended functions of the accumulator are controlled by a second control unit or a second control core of the first control unit. As described above, the division into basic and extended functions enables efficient and safe operation of the accumulator.

[0036] The method is particularly advantageous if the basic functions relate to the operational safety of the battery, and the extended functions include user-defined and / or device-specific functions. The basic functions, controlled by the first control unit or control core, can relate to critical safety aspects. This includes, for example, protection against overcharging, deep discharging, short circuits, or thermal overloads. In particular, the basic functions include battery management.

[0037] The extended functions, controlled by the second control unit or control core, offer scope for user-defined customizations. These can include, in particular, programmability, IoT capabilities, user interfaces, and additional analysis functions. The clear separation prevents user-defined functions from compromising fundamental operational safety. At the same time, it allows for flexible adaptation of the accumulator to specific application scenarios or user preferences without requiring any intervention in safety-critical areas.

[0038] Device-specific functions may include, for example, alternative operating modes, the operation of actuators and / or the setting of abstract operating parameters that must be translated into basic operating parameters by a terminal control unit.

[0039] Control commands for specific functions go beyond simply supplying power to the terminal device via the battery and require, for example, the transfer of complex data between the battery and the terminal device. It is also highly advantageous if, in the event of a conflict, control commands from the first control unit take precedence over those from the second control unit, or vice versa. This hierarchy ensures that fundamental safety and operational functions always take precedence. In the case of conflicting instructions, this guarantees that critical functions for maintaining operational safety cannot be overridden by extended or user-defined functions.This can be relevant, for example, if a user-defined loading profile conflicts with safety limits. In such situations, the safety parameters set by the first control unit or control core would automatically take precedence. This precedence can be implemented, for example, through hardware-based mechanisms such as prioritized interrupt structures, or through software-based decision algorithms.

[0040] Further advantages of the invention are described in the following exemplary embodiments. These show, schematically: Fig. 1 an isometric view of a first embodiment of an accumulator according to the invention, Fig. 2 a cutaway side view of the first embodiment of the accumulator according to the invention, Fig. 3 a cutaway side view of a second embodiment of the accumulator according to the invention, and Fig. 4 a cutaway side view of a third embodiment of the accumulator according to the invention.

[0041] In the following description of the figures, the same reference symbols are used for features that are identical and / or at least comparable in the various figures. The individual features, their design, and / or mode of action are usually only explained in detail upon their first mention. If individual features are not explained again in detail, their design and / or mode of action corresponds to the design and mode of action of the already described features with the same or identical effect.

[0042] Fig. 1 and Fig. Figure 2 shows a first embodiment of an accumulator 1 according to the invention in different views.

[0043] Fig. Figure 1 shows an isometric view of the battery 1. The battery 1 has a compact, rectangular housing shape, as is typically used in power tools. An energy interface 3 is provided on the top of the battery 1, which serves to connect to a terminal device or an external power source. The energy interface 3 includes, for example, several electrical contacts through which electrical energy in the form of voltage and current can be transmitted.

[0044] Fig. Figure 2 shows a cutaway side view of the accumulator 1, illustrating its internal structure. Inside the housing are several accumulator cells 2, arranged, for example, in two rows of five cells each. These accumulator cells 2 serve to absorb, store, and release energy, thus providing the basic function of the accumulator 1: supplying energy to end devices.

[0045] The accumulator 1 comprises a first control unit 4. The first control unit 4 can, for example, be designed to control basic functions of the accumulator 1. In particular, the first control unit 4 can be configured as a battery management system. In addition to the first control unit 4, the accumulator 1 in this embodiment comprises a second control unit 7. The second control unit 7 is configured, for example, to control extended functions, which in particular go beyond basic operating and safety functions.

[0046] In this embodiment, the accumulator 1 includes a battery data interface 10 implemented as a physical connection, which is connected directly and exclusively to the second control unit 7 and serves for data exchange with external devices. For example, an IoT interface 8 of the second control unit 7 can communicate with other IoT-enabled devices via the battery data interface 10.

[0047] In addition, the second control unit 7 has a programming interface 9, which in particular allows the implementation of user-defined functions. In this way, the functions of the accumulator 1 can be freely programmed by a user, especially within the framework of the safety parameters specified by the first control unit 4.

[0048] A data connection 11 exists between the first control unit 4 and the second control unit 7. This enables a controlled exchange of information between the control units 4 and 7, whereby the second control unit 7, for example, only has read rights but no write rights for the data of the first control unit 4.

[0049] The first control unit 4 includes a read-only memory 15, specifically for storing safety-relevant operating parameters for the accumulator 1. The contents of the read-only memory 15 cannot be changed, thus preventing accidental or intentional manipulation. The second control unit 7, on the other hand, is equipped with, for example, a direct-access memory 16, which enables fast and flexible data processing for the extended functions of the accumulator 1. In particular, the direct-access memory 16 can be used for executing user-defined programs.

[0050] Fig. Figure 3 shows a second embodiment of the accumulator 1 according to the invention. In contrast to the previous embodiment, the accumulator 1 here comprises only the first control unit 4. The first control unit 4, however, comprises a first control core 5 and a second control core 6. The first control core 5 can be configured for controlling the basic functions of the accumulator 1. For this purpose, the first control core 5 is configured, for example, as a battery management system. The second control core 6 is responsible, for example, for extended functions, in particular IoT-related and user-defined functions.

[0051] In contrast to the exemplary embodiment of the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. The battery data interface 10 is configured here as a wireless interface. This allows the battery 1 to communicate with devices in the vicinity that also have corresponding interfaces. In particular, communication with a user's consumer electronics device, other batteries 1, and / or end devices in the vicinity is possible. As already described, the battery data interface 10 can be configured as a cellular, WLAN, Bluetooth, Zigbee, and / or LoRaWAN interface. The battery data interface 10 is connected directly and exclusively to the second control core 6.

[0052] In this embodiment, the first control unit 4 also includes a data storage unit 12, which can be used, for example, to store data and / or to execute programs. A data connection 11 exists between the first control core 5 and the second control core 6. Analogous to the previous embodiment, the second control core 6 has, for example, only read rights, but no write rights, for the data of the first control core 5.

[0053] Fig.Figure 4 shows a third embodiment of the accumulator 1 according to the invention. In this example, possible embodiments of the second control core 6 and the data storage 12 are shown in more detail. The second control core 6 includes, for example, an IoT interface 8. As already described, the IoT interface 8 enables a direct connection of the accumulator 1 to IoT networks and services. In particular, the IoT interface 8 can support various wireless technologies such as cellular networks, WLAN, Bluetooth, Zigbee, and / or LoRaWAN via the battery data interface 10.

[0054] The second control core 6 also includes, for example, a programming interface 9. Through the programming interface 9, the functions of the accumulator 1 can be freely programmed, in particular by a user of the accumulator 1, within the framework of the safety parameters specified by the first control core 5, as already described.

[0055] In this embodiment, the data storage 12 is divided into two distinct areas. A protected area 13 of the data storage 12 is, for example, exclusively assigned to the first control core 5. This area serves, for example, for the secure storage of critical data and operating parameters of the accumulator 1. The exclusive assignment to the first control core 5 prevents this sensitive information from being manipulated and / or read out by other system components.

[0056] An unprotected area 14 of the data storage 12 is, for example, intended for storing data relevant to the extended functions and user interactions. This area can be used in particular by the IoT interface 8 and / or the programming interface 9 of the second control core 6. Usage statistics, configuration settings for IoT functions, or temporary data for calculations and program execution can be stored here, for example. Reference symbol list 1 accumulator 2 accumulator cells 3 Energy interface 4 first control unit 5 first control core 6 second control core 7 second control unit 8 IoT interface 9 Programming interface 10 Battery data interface 11 Data connection 12 Data storage devices 13 protected area 14 unprotected area 15 read-only memories 16 Random Access Memory

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