DISTRIBUTED MEASURING SYSTEM, MEASURING CONTROL AND METHOD FOR MEASURING DATA TRANSMISSION, IN PARTICULAR FOR MONITORING AN ACCUMULATOR ARRAY

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a distributed measurement system that can be used to centrally monitor multiple battery packs via a wired data bus between measurement sensors and a measurement data collector. In other words, the present invention relates to a measurement system according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a measurement control that can be implemented as a control in a distributed electronic measurement system. In other words, the present invention relates to a measurement control according to the preamble of claim 11.

[0003] The present invention also relates to a method for transmitting measurement data that can be implemented in a distributed electronic measuring system. Measured parameters from multiple accumulators or electrochemical converters are transmitted from a measurement sensor to a measurement data collector via multiple communication channels. It can also be said that the present invention relates to a method for transmitting measurement data according to the preamble of claim 15. Technical area

[0004] Systems that are to be built with particularly robust yet cost-effective batteries that can ideally be individually replaced as needed, e.g., towards the end of each battery's life, due to, among other things, the arrangement, mode of operation, spatial placement, and mechanical fastening, sometimes include arrays, i.e., arrangements of series-connected and parallel-connected batteries constructed with batteries of the "lead-acid" type (such as lead-acid batteries with free sulfuric acid, VRLA batteries, lead-gel batteries, and lead-glass fiber batteries) or of the "metal hydride" type.

[0005] Batteries can contain several electrochemical cells.

[0006] Battery arrays are used for numerous applications, including as emergency power systems for emergency lighting systems. Another application for such a battery array is uninterruptible power supply(s), particularly in public buildings and industrial facilities. Battery arrays are also known to be used as buffer batteries in energy supply systems with photovoltaic components.

[0007] Although the arrangement, which is referred to as a battery array, is constructed as a string-connected arrangement of battery packs made up of batteries of a robust battery type such as lead-acid batteries, in which in particular several strings are arranged in parallel, a central battery system as part of an emergency lighting system as well as a system for uninterruptible power supply, in order to comply with the normative requirements such as VDE 0833, must be equipped with measuring and monitoring electronics that can provide information about the operability, and preferably also information about the condition of the individual battery packs.

[0008] Corresponding monitoring systems, which have since been successfully tested and applied in many areas of application, are described in EP 2 770 605 B1 (patent holder: RP-Technik GmbH; date of grant: 01.02.2017) and EP 2 911 269 B1 (patent holder: RP-Technik GmbH; date of grant: 05.07.2017).

[0009] The descriptions of these two publications contain numerous information and details on battery arrays and suitable monitoring systems. The system descriptions therein, by their very nature, are considered to be the system descriptions for the present invention. Instead of repeating the descriptions of relevant systems of battery arrays with monitoring and control electronics, reference is made to the system descriptions in EP 2 770 605 B1 and EP 2 911 269 B1 for the sake of a more concise presentation. State of the art

[0010] In some well-known communication systems where transmission via the individual communication channels cannot always be guaranteed, procedures are used to make data transmission more secure.

[0011] In this context, US 6 272 190 B1 (patent holder: NTP Incorporated; date of grant: August 7, 2001) is worth mentioning. US 6 272 190 B1 deals with data transmissions in mobile radio networks, which are said to be susceptible to interference. As a solution, US 6 272 190 B1 proposes that a first parallel information data stream and a second parallel information data stream be transmitted to a distributed, central receiving unit, whereby the receiving unit can deduce, based on error correction information, whether the first information data stream or the second information data stream should be discarded due to errors. The two identical information data streams differ in the carrier frequency over which the first or second information data stream is transmitted to the receiver.

[0012] The three patent applications DE 10 2012 218 333 A1 (applicants: Robert Bosch GmbH and Samsung SDI Co. Ltd.; disclosure date: April 10, 2014), DE 10 2012 211 125 A1 (applicants: Robert Bosch GmbH and Samsung SDI Co. Ltd.; disclosure date: January 2, 2014), and DE 10 2012 218 330 A1 (applicants: Robert Bosch GmbH and Samsung SDI Co. Ltd.; disclosure date: April 10, 2014) address battery measurement methods that operate with at least two or even more than two different measurement data sets in order to reduce the bandwidth required for transmitting the measurement data on a transmission channel. The reliability of the data transmission is determined by whether the required bandwidth and the bandwidth provided by the communication channel, e.g., a CAN bus, match each other. On the one hand, the publications state that if only a low measurement data resolution is required, the measurement frequency can be flexibly increased.Secondly, if the bandwidth used is reduced, the data bus is used to a lesser extent and is therefore less susceptible to interference. In other words, the authors of the publications are seeking relief by reducing the data resolution because the bandwidth is insufficient. In this context, different data sets are to be transmitted for data packets concerning the voltage and temperature of a battery.

[0013] Furthermore, EP 2 945 244 A1 (applicant: Airbus Operations GmbH; publication date: November 18, 2015) describes a module for distributing power and data (PADD) in an aircraft or spacecraft. A distribution network is to have several interfaces for power supply and several interfaces for data transmission. It is envisaged that one or more electrical loads are connected to the network and supplied with DC or AC voltage. For this purpose, the network is to have several so-called PADD modules, which can be equipped with an electrical energy storage device.

[0014] According to US 2015 / 280463 A1 (applicant: Y. Okuda et al.; publication date: October 1, 2015), it is proposed to more efficiently design a system of serially connected, rechargeable batteries, which has an energy requirement for communicating system parameters or data that depends on the system size. For this purpose, segmented data packets of a predetermined length, with each segment reserved for data from a specific battery pack, are to be sent along a corresponding serial communication path. Different paths are to be used for the energy supply and for communication. Battery parameters are to be provided in response to a query command issued by a battery management unit, e.g., via a fiber optic communication path to an addressed battery pack. Unaddressed battery packs are to forward the data packet unchanged along the communication path.

[0015] Patent application DE 102012 202 754 A1 (applicant: Robert Bosch GmbH; disclosure date: August 29, 2013) deals with a battery sensor data transmission unit and an associated method for transmitting battery sensor data. A connection state determination unit should be able to determine the series connection state of the existing battery cells that are connected in series via a power transmission line or that are possibly bridged or decoupled. A data transmission unit should be able to output a sensor signal, which represents a physical quantity for the battery cell, to an evaluation device using the power transmission line in the series connection state. Simple evaluation or easier reception of the sensor signals should be made possible by the evaluation device transmitting the sensor signal from a specific battery cell at predetermined times via only a single transmission path, possiblyin frequent repetition, can be expected.

[0016] DE 10 2012 224 060 A1 (applicant: Robert Bosch GmbH; disclosure date: June 26, 2014) describes a method for data transmission for a battery management system and a corresponding battery management system for operating a battery pack. In this method, measurement data transmitted from sensor control units via a data bus to a main control unit of a battery management system for vehicles is to be compressed. The method steps include the transmission of a rate of change / gradient at the start of the measurements, the transmission of deviations / differences of the measurement data from a current gradient, and a reconstruction of measured values, which should be free of information loss. The reconstruction should be performed by the main control unit from the received deviations. In addition, it is intended that the measurement data be subjected to an extrapolation operation in the main control unit, and corrections to the measured values should occasionally be possible.

[0017] US 2016 / 359329 A1 (applicant: Samsung SDI Co. Ltd.; publication date: December 8, 2016) describes a system for monitoring multiple battery packs and an associated monitoring method. The system comprises a so-called "master battery pack," which is intended to communicate directly with a control unit, and so-called "slave battery packs," which are intended to communicate with the "master battery pack" rather than with that control unit. The "master battery pack" forwards the status information of the "slave battery packs" to the control unit and can send control commands to the "slave battery packs" via the "master battery pack." After switching on, the "battery packs" are intended to exchange so-called "identifiers" with each other.Each battery pack should be equipped with a battery management system (BMS) that automatically determines whether its assigned battery pack is a master or a slave based on a prioritization of the identifiers exchanged within a time window after power-up. Information about, for example, output voltages should be made available to the BMS by a breaker circuit. The status information can also include information about the charge level, current, and temperature of the respective pack. The breaker circuit should be controllable by the BMS. Furthermore, the BMS should be able to forward the received status information from the battery pack. For communication, the battery packs should be interconnected via a controller area network (CAN). How the system should react if the master battery pack, for example, fails to respond, is not described.due to a fault, is not identified within the set time window. Task

[0018] Although the two European Patent Office publications mentioned above (EP 2 770605 B1 and EP 2 911 269 B1) describe highly sophisticated systems, it has been shown that, particularly in the field of uninterruptible power supplies, there are indeed transmission moments or phases during which data transmission is disrupted. Based on the distributed measurement systems for accumulators or accumulator arrays with centrally arranged monitoring devices developed to date and described in these two publications, a further development is desired that ensures even more reliable data transmission. Description of the invention

[0019] The distributed measuring system according to the invention is disclosed in patent claim 1. Advantageous further developments can be found in claims 2 to 10.

[0020] A measurement control according to the invention for transmitting at least two sensor values is carried out by a measurement control according to patent claim 11. Advantageous further developments can be found in claims 12 to 14.

[0021] A suitable method for transmitting measurement data, which can be carried out on a distributed electronic measuring system, can be found in claim 15.

[0022] The measuring system is designed to measure parameters from multiple batteries by assigning a separate measuring sensor to each battery. The batteries are connected in parallel, in series, or in a mixed parallel and serial arrangement consisting of several batteries connected in parallel and several in series.

[0023] Multiple measurement points can be recorded using a polygon. The measurement points are not transmitted to a measurement data collector via communication channels as a pure measurement point table, but rather in a converted form, specifically represented by polygons.

[0024] A measurement data collector, which, possibly with additional components, represents a central control unit of the power supply system, obtains information from the power supply lines about the status of the batteries monitored by measuring sensors. The control unit, to which the measurement data collector belongs, is designed to generate an alternating voltage.

[0025] A data collector, for which the data from the measuring sensors or transducers is intended, is located remotely from each of the measuring sensors or transducers. The data collector can derive measured data (in processed form) from the power supply lines of the power supply system.

[0026] In addition to communication via power supply lines, the distributed measurement system offers a wired communication bus.

[0027] A data bus suitable for the additional wired communication channel corresponds to a CAN bus system. It should be emphasized that the term "CAN bus" can refer to various bus systems.

[0028] However, the transmission to the measurement data collector is not carried out using a single type of measurement data record, but rather two different types of measurement data records. Both types of measurement data records contain at least some of the same information, but processed differently. The measured parameters can be derived from the first type of measurement data record (possibly with a certain error). However, the measured parameters can also be derived from the second type of measurement data record (possibly with a certain error) (second approximation in the measurement control process). The communication channel is used by a sensor in such a way that at a first point in time, a measurement data record of a first type is transmitted. At a second point in time, which is less recent than the first point in time (relative to the current operating time), a second type of measurement data record is transmitted (e.g., as a "Type 1" log and a "Type 2" log).If the measurement data sets from the communication channel are analyzed, e.g., by an oscilloscope or a logic analyzer, at least two measurement data sets with several measurement words are obtained, through which several parameter values can be transmitted.

[0029] The measured values transmitted via the measurement data sets represent measurement points that are linked to one another via a secant relationship, i.e., secants from measurement point to measurement point. From a first measurement point, the (actual) second measurement point can be derived via the secant relationship that develops toward a second measurement point. This secant relationship reflects a temporal interval between a first measurement point and a second measurement point. The temporal lengths or durations (also referred to as "secant periods") differ between the measurement data sets, i.e., a measurement data set of the first type and a measurement data set of the second type.

[0030] From another perspective, the invention can be explained as follows.

[0031] By means of measurement control, measured data can be transmitted via at least one communication channel to a centrally located unit, the measurement data collector. For this purpose, each of the measuring sensors integrated into the measuring system, which can also be referred to as measuring sensors, has an autonomously running control system for transmitting the measurement data from the individual measuring sensor. The method for measuring data transmission is intended to run on a distributed, electronic measuring system. The individual measuring sensors are assigned to electrochemical converters, preferably accumulators comprising several electrochemical cells, such as a lead-acid accumulator, in particular comprising several cells, or a nickel-metal hydride accumulator, in particular comprising several cells, ideally arranged directly on or in an accumulator assigned to a measuring sensor.Thus, a sensor is assigned to a specific accumulator and is responsible for its measured values.

[0032] The measurement data collector is arranged away from the individual measuring sensor, ie from all measuring sensors, which in one embodiment can also be referred to as measuring sensors.

[0033] At least one communication channel exists between the individual sensors and the data collector, through which the sensors can transmit measured data, ideally processed (i.e., calculated). It may happen that the communication channel is subject to interference, at least temporarily, e.g., due to EMC interference generated by devices such as inverters, choppers, AC generators, or AC converters.

[0034] One part of the measurement control, namely that which is processed in a measuring sensor, ensures a measurement of parameters by which the object to be monitored, such as the lead-acid battery, can be characterized, at least in part, such as by means of a pole voltage value, by means of a temperature development, by means of a residual charge state or by means of a current-voltage ratio.

[0035] Although two different measurement data sets are transmitted, which preferably only contain partial, i.e. partially redundant, information, there is no duplication of the transmission effort. Instead, due to the different measurement data structure with partially identical, recalculated information, the measurement data collector gains additional information from each measurement data set in order to store the curve shapes of individual parameter curves to be stored in it as a function of time, so to speak, gradually, with smaller errors or deviations (third approximation in the measurement control process).

[0036] From a further perspective, the invention can be explained as follows.

[0037] The method for transmitting measured data is particularly suitable because, among other things, a plurality of values from, in particular, at least two different sensors must be transmitted. The parameters that describe an object, such as a lead-acid battery or a nickel-metal hydride battery, in electrical or energy-related terms, can be traced back to various physical phenomena. The different physical phenomena, such as temperature and / or voltage, are measured in order to be able to assess the condition of a battery assigned to a measuring sensor. For this purpose, a measurement of the physical parameters is carried out at different points in time, be it at a first point in time, a second point in time, a third point in time, etc., so that the same parameters can be transmitted for the same point in time during operation.

[0038] Using the same communication channel, which is provided, for example, by a power supply cable with multiple wires, a second measuring sensor can transmit parameters relating to another accumulator at different times. Each sensor operates independently and is therefore (at least indirectly) uncoordinated with one another. The measuring sensors transmit the parameters they have recorded, particularly in a mathematically converted form, to a measurement data collector. The measurement data collector is located at a different location in the power supply system, which also includes the accumulators to be monitored. Such a power supply system can be an emergency lighting system or an energy source for an uninterruptible power supply. A suitable location for the installation of a measurement data collector can be, for example, a central control computer of an emergency lighting system. If the measurement control orWhen using the measurement control in an uninterruptible power supply, a suitable location for the measurement data collector can be the control unit of the entire uninterruptible power supply.

[0039] The measured values for individual parameters result in a measurement curve, which can be represented in a simplified manner using polygons (possibly with a certain error). The polygons can be composed of secant lines that approximate the polygon and thus the actual parameter curve. At different times, different polygons are transmitted from a sensor to the measurement data collector. Thus, a sensor transmits two different polygons at two different times. Each polygon contains a certain amount of data that approximates part of the measured parameter curve.

[0040] Each sensor follows or implements at least two different approximation methods. While one sensor measures a parameter, possibly multiple times in succession, to obtain a calculated value, it uses two different approximation methods to calculate a resulting polygonal curve to a similar parameter curve. These two polygonal curves, which represent different time periods, are transmitted, particularly alternately, over the communication channel so that the measurement data collector can record the polygonal curves and derive the (most likely actually existing) parameter curve from them.

[0041] By transmitting parameters from monitored objects with partial redundancies to the data collector, the collector is able to derive the actual approximation to the parameter curve through continuously performed approximations. The longer the measurement data recording takes place, the more likely it is that the data collector will gradually approximate the actual parameter curve for each individual parameter being measured, even though the communication channel may be subject to interference.

[0042] An advantage of the distributed measurement system becomes particularly apparent when at least two, ideally more than two, accumulators together form an energy (emergency) supply system.

[0043] Such energy supply systems, especially those based on accumulators, are often used as part of an uninterruptible power supply, or alternatively as part of an emergency power supply, e.g., for an emergency lighting system. During regular mains operation, the accumulators can be kept at a maximum charge with a (low) trickle charge. If the phase supply fails or even collapses in at least one of several mains phases, energy from the accumulator can be provided without any delay as a substitute in an (electrical) installation area that can be supplied by the energy supply system.

[0044] Batteries can be characterized particularly well if not only a single parameter is measured for each existing battery in a power supply system, but at least some selected batteries in a power supply system are monitored using at least two physically distinct parameters. Such parameters can be, for example, an open-circuit voltage or a load voltage of the battery on the one hand, and a temperature value of the battery, e.g., on a surface of the battery or even inside between individual cells of the battery. Parameters such as voltage and temperature are meaningful parameters that can provide information about the condition of the battery.

[0045] Additional data, ideally the same data as via the power supply line, can be transmitted via the wired communication bus, but possibly in a different electrical protocol.

[0046] The measurement data recorded by one of the measuring sensors is transmitted not just via one communication channel, but via multiple communication channels. The measurement data can, for example, be approximate polygons that represent a curve of a parameter to be measured, e.g., as a function of time.

[0047] The measurement data sets, each acquired in a measuring transducer or measuring sensor, reflect a curve composed of secants over several time intervals. The measurement data set thus reflects a polygonal line, which, in particular, represents a single-digit number of individual secants or sections formed by secants (the secant sections).

[0048] It is particularly advantageous if the polygonal trace can be adapted to a number of measurement points that occur between a first and a second point in time. It is also advantageous if the sensor offers different polygonal traces that reflect different time periods.

[0049] In addition to a first measurement data set, it is advantageous if a second measurement data set for a second polygonal line is presented to the measurement data collectors by the measuring transducer or measuring sensor. The second polygonal line can, especially compared to the first polygonal line, represent a parameter curve in a significantly more comprehensive manner, e.g., by means of a three-digit number of support points or measurement points, between which lie individual secants, which can also be colloquially referred to as secant segments.

[0050] Advantageous embodiments and further developments are set out below, which, viewed individually or in combination, may also reveal inventive aspects.

[0051] It is advantageous if not only one type of communication channel is available, but rather, in addition to a first communication channel, which is, for example, wired, there is a second communication channel that is also wired. The second communication channel can, for example, be available independently of interference on the remaining communication channel, i.e., in particular, decoupled.

[0052] In addition to a first communication channel and a second communication channel, a second communication channel can of course also be present. In a favorable embodiment, the power supply is used as the medium or means for transmitting the first communication channel. More precisely, the power supply lines form the physical basis for the communication channel. The second communication channel can be a dedicated data connection line.

[0053] A reliable transmission method, particularly proven by experiments, consists in providing an amplitude-modulated square wave signal on one of the communication channels, in particular on the power supply channel.

[0054] The reliability of data transmission can be further increased if not only a single carrier frequency is used, but multiple carrier frequencies are available that can be used as carrier frequencies for transmission, e.g., an amplitude-modulated square wave. In one embodiment, a frequency flow occurs from one carrier frequency to the next while measurement data sets are being transmitted. The carrier frequency can change between types of measurement data sets. Likewise, a carrier frequency change can also occur during the transmission of a measurement data set of a specific type.

[0055] An additional optical transmission path is also available as a further communication channel.

[0056] In addition, other communication channels may be present, e.g., optical, light-guided and / or electromagnetic wave-based communication channels.

[0057] Advantageously, one polygonal traverse, especially the second polygonal traverse, grows during the duration of the measurement control's operation. Over the course of a longer period of operation, the polygonal traverse also lengthens.

[0058] The respective sensor is not only a measuring sensor, but also a data processor. The sensor can perform secant calculations, which calculate individual secant values. Such derivation of secant values forms the basis for a measurement data set to be transmitted.

[0059] Ideally, the data collector is installed as part of or in conjunction with a central control unit, such as a UPS controller. The power supply includes batteries, several electronic components (e.g., electronic boards), and connecting materials such as cables and connectors.

[0060] The present invention has been explained using a measurement control system and a corresponding measurement system. It is understandable that a measurement control system according to the invention can also be executed on a measurement system according to the invention.

[0061] The combinations and embodiments presented above can also be considered in numerous other connections and combinations.

[0062] It is of course also possible to transfer multi-parameter data sets that cover more than two physical parameters to one accumulator.

[0063] For example, a voltage value and a temperature value can be combined to form a voltage value polygon and a temperature value polygon, ideally based on the same time base.

[0064] A measuring system arranged in a power supply system, particularly one based on batteries or accumulators, has individual components in proximity, directly on, or even within essential components of the power supply system, e.g., between the terminals of a battery. The measuring system serves to monitor the batteries, in particular their states. The batteries are rechargeable batteries equipped with measuring transducers or measuring sensors. Such rechargeable batteries can each have a measuring sensor or measuring transducer integrated into their housing. In a further embodiment, each of the poles of the rechargeable batteries is assigned a tap, via which measured values or measuring parameters such as a battery voltage can be tapped.

[0065] A sensor is ideally combined with an accumulator to form a compact unit integrated into a device.

[0066] An analog-to-digital converter is advantageously used for the measurement, e.g., as part of a microcontroller, which thus determines discrete, individual measured values at very specific times. The measurement is made even more precise by the fact that a measurement is (actually) composed of several individual measurements, e.g., within the framework of a weighted averaging, or is derived from these. Each sensor operates independently, as mentioned above. For this purpose, the sensor can be equipped with a clock that determines how frequently and at what times, i.e., with what repetition rate, the individual, temporally discrete measurements are performed.

[0067] At a time determined by a repetition rate, the measuring sensor records at least one parameter, ideally several parameters. The measurement can be repeated multiple times, within a few milliseconds, so that a corrected measured value is approximated from a group of measuring points (first approximation in the measurement control sequence). Older measurements, or one could also say the previous measurements, or at least their approximate values, are retained or stored to the extent that a memory for them is provided in the measuring sensor. The measuring sensor has - so to speak - a measurement book that is updated by the repetition rate and is continuously updated with more recent measurements during operation. Ideally, the repetition rate at which each individual measurement is performed is variable.In this process, the measured values—a single measured value can also be referred to as a measurement point—are processed, calculated, and converted to contribute to the formation of a secant value. A most recent measurement is mathematically linked to a previous measurement via a secant calculation so that the calculated secant value can be transmitted to the measurement data collector.

[0068] The voltage values of a battery are tapped at the battery itself. The voltage values are measured by the measuring sensor. This allows individual cells of the battery to be measured. The battery is formed by cells connected in series.

[0069] This allows the cells of a battery to be measured directly. It is advantageous if individual cell packs, which are part of a battery, are combined for measurement purposes using a group tap, with the measurement being recorded, so to speak, by taps inside the battery. This buffers interference signals on the power supply lines by cells located beyond the tap. The tap lines to the measurement sensors are attenuated by individual cells of the battery.

[0070] Although only a partial voltage of the accumulator is measured, the redundant measurement using cell pack measurement ensures that data is transmitted to the measurement data collector with as little interference as possible.

[0071] Due to the characteristics of the expected accumulator parameter changes, it is advantageous to choose a numeric encoding that may be (slightly) error-prone, but transmits data extremely compactly. Various studies have shown that an eight-bit floating integer transmission, particularly with a 2-, 3-, or 4-bit mantissa and a 3-, 4-, or 5-bit exponent, as well as a sign bit if required, reliably and effectively transmits parameters as part of a measurement data set.

[0072] Furthermore, it is also possible to provide, in addition to the illustrated coding methods for transmission, further coding and transmission methods which are part of a measurement control system according to the invention as third, fourth, etc. transmission methods of measurement data sets at their own times.

[0073] If the invention components presented in a more abstract manner are combined to form a battery measurement and monitoring system implemented as a distributed measurement system, this can be designed as follows: The distributed measurement system is based on the following components, parts and metrological, logical and / or signal-related aspects or terminology: Sensor: Design of a technical device which is preferably assigned to exactly one accumulator and measures one or more parameters on this by means of sensors (therefore also referred to as a measuring sensor), although it is also conceivable that a slightly different design of a measuring sensor is not specifically assigned to any accumulator or - in an alternative design - to an entire group of accumulators (examples: a) current sensor for an entire battery string, b) temperature sensor for the room temperature outside the battery cabinet, etc.). Parameter:Physical quantity, preferably on an accumulator or an accumulator array, the value of which can be determined by single or repeated measurements (possibly with averaging), whereby the numerical value resulting from this process can also be referred to as the measured value (see below). Measured value: The current value of a parameter is determined by reading a sensor value once or several times (possibly with averaging). Measurement data set: A data packet with specific content, e.g., measuring points or secant values, transmitted by a measuring sensor over a communication channel. Measuring point:Tuple of at least one parameter measured value (e.g. voltage or e.g. a combination of voltage and temperature) and, if necessary, an associated time specification (measurement time), whereby it can be determined in particular whether such a time specification is available so that it can be deduced that all contained parameter measured values were determined at the same time at this measurement time. Measurement time: Indication of the time at which a measurement was taken, whereby in an optional embodiment the measurements can be carried out periodically, i.e. repeated at a constant measurement interval. Secant value:A pair of two measuring points, called the start and end (measurement) point (or "vertices" of the secant), which describes a temporal progression of the parameters contained therein between the contained start and end time points as a straight line, i.e. as a linear progression over time, where the secant value is in particular the numerical representation of a secant, e.g. a straight line segment, which can be understood as part of a larger polygon. Measurement data collector: Technical device that stores and processes measurement data records from one or more measuring sensors; in particular, received secant values are used by the measurement data collector to reconstruct information from measurement data records lost due to collisions or communication channel disruptions, and in this way to document the temporal progression of the measured parameters as completely as possible despite these disruptions or to feed them into a database.

[0074] The distributed measurement system can, for example, be based on a selection of the following components, parts and metrological, logical and / or signal-related aspects or terminology: Measurement interval: Time interval between two consecutive measurements, i.e., in the simplest case, the measurement interval used is constant, e.g., 10 seconds. Vertex: Measuring point with time indication that describes the beginning or end of a secant. Secant: Smallest linear subunit of a polygon. Polygon:A particularly continuous, piecewise linear (= straight) curve formed from at least one secant, which approximately describes the temporal course of one or more parameters, whereby such a description of the parameter course (from a metrological point of view) is particularly accurate if the calculation of the vertices or the secant values fulfil a set of criteria, the observance of which is guaranteed by a suitable algorithm, the secant algorithm, e.g. that of a constant maximum display error. Secant algorithm:Calculation specification and rules, based on which vertices for one or more polygons are determined in the sensor from the continuously determined measurement points, which meet selected requirements; thus, in an exemplary implementation, the secant algorithm can ensure that the polygons described with the determined vertices represent the exact course of the parameter measured values over time with a maximum error, which is referred to as representation accuracy. Display accuracy: Maximum deviation of the actual measured value curve from a corresponding approximate representation, here by a polygon. Display error: Deviation of a secant or one of its vertices from the actual measured values at a given time.

[0075] Given the above-mentioned terminology, various aspects can be explained, each of which constitutes the essence of the invention and can therefore be claimed individually.

[0076] A polygonal line can be advantageously represented by vertices. Such vertices are very compactly represented secant determination points.

[0077] If a sensor or transducer measures several parameters, it is advantageous if the vertices or measurement data sets do not only represent a polygon for a single parameter, but actually provide a set of numbers or even a tuple of data.

[0078] For some configurations, it is advantageous to have a compressed buffer of measurement data available in the sensor, allowing for the transmission of this measurement data even much later (several minutes later, or even hours or days later). This aspect is interesting for at least two reasons: 1. Even with an undisturbed communication channel, individual measurement data records can be lost temporarily due to collisions occurring at various times. 2. During emergency operation of an uninterruptible power supply (also known as a "UPS"), increased EMC stress on the communication channel can lead to a complete loss of reception, which can even last several hours.

[0079] In both cases, or more precisely, in both error scenarios (or cases involving undesired behavior of the distributed measurement system), a user of the measurement system has an interest in subsequently reconstructing the measurement values that are not available "live" (or instantaneously) due to the disruption or error. One approach to a technical solution involves retransmitting the measurement data or measurement data sets at a later point in time so that they can then be inserted into the (intermediately) created "holes" in the measurement data collector's database. This is achieved by a time-delayed retransmission or multiple transmission, whereby – according to the principle of the Bernoulli process – the reception probability for the individual data contents is maximized: The more frequently a piece of data, such as a measurement data set, is transmitted, the closer the probability of success that all measurement data will arrive at the measurement data collector can be to 100%.This requires that as much measurement data as possible is stored in memory for as long a period of time as possible, partly because of the consideration of spreading the multiple transmission over a long period of time (minutes, hours or even days).

[0080] To ensure that the measurement data, which has been collected or measured over the course of many hours, finds space in the memory available for the measurement data, and, above all, that its transmission can be carried out with minimal effort (in particular, without significantly enlarging the transmitted measurement data sets, e.g., by less than 100% or even less than 50%), the measurement data is represented in an extremely compact form, namely as a polygon consisting of so-called secant lines. It is advantageous here if corner points of the polygon (which can also be referred to as vertices) are transmitted instead of individual measurement points.

[0081] According to a further implementation of an embodiment, a measuring system comprises: a secant algorithm for the determination of vertices or (in more understandable terms) polygon vertices (corner points), a storage of polygon vertices in the measuring sensor or in a memory in the measuring sensor in which polygon vertices can be stored, a transmission channel, also simply called one or more transmissions, for / from polygon vertices or secant values as part of the transmitted measurement data sets, a combination of the received secant values to form a complete polygon line in the measurement data collector.

[0082] In the following, operating methods or process steps and process sequences are presented in some detail, which can be compiled as design variants in various combinations, in particular can take place or occur in measuring systems: The measuring sensors connected to a network preferably operate periodically, i.e. they determine a measured value once per work cycle and transmit a measurement data set to the measurement data collector. A measurement data set can be lost due to a collision with one or more measurement data sets from other measuring sensors or due to other interference in the communication channel, e.g. caused by the UPS. In order to reduce the probability of the measured values measured at a defined time being lost, the measured values measured at this defined time should be transmitted multiple times, i.e. even several times the time between two measurement value sets later, retrospectively, so to speak, and as often as possible. This means that a measurement data set can not only contain the current or most current measured values at a particular time, but also information about previous measured values measured in the past.With such a transmission, not only the current measured values but also previous measured values must be stored in the sensor's memory. If the previous measured values, together with the information about the corresponding time, were stored or transmitted 1:1 as measurement points, the storage requirements or the number of characters to be transmitted would increase linearly with the time period to be covered. For 100 or 1,000 measurement points, the storage requirements or transmission effort would be 100 or 1,000 times that for a single data point; this can be prevented by more compact archiving and transmission. According to one aspect of the invention, it can also be said that an advantage lies in the approach to data reduction / compression in order to represent as many measurement data points as possible with as few data bytes as possible in the sensor's memory or to transmit them with compact data packets (or, one could also say, "efficiently").The method used is the representation of the measured value curve over time by straight line segments (referred to as secant lines), which result in a polygonal line. The fact that the polygonal line necessarily represents an approximation of the exact measured data curve and will therefore deviate more or less from the exact measured data at one or more points in time can be accepted because the deviation remains within preset limits (as with any lossy data compression). The invention can also be addressed in another aspect, namely the algorithm implemented as part of the invention, which determines the corner points (defined by "vertices" as the start and end points of a secant) of such a polygonal line in the measuring sensors in real time. The algorithm can therefore be referred to as a secant algorithm.This secant algorithm is advantageously designed so that this deviation is guaranteed not to exceed a specified absolute value (in the sense of an "error limit") (which can also be referred to as the "specified representation accuracy"). The sensors transmit current measured values and / or secant values in their measurement data sets. In one embodiment, the measurement data collector is designed to combine the secant values received or measured by it into a polygon and store them in a database. In the event that a communication channel is or was temporarily disrupted, for example, the measured value curve for the relevant period can be completely reconstructed based on the secant values. One of the prerequisites for this is simply that the secant values falling within this period remain in the sensors for a sufficiently long time to be transmitted sufficiently frequently.One of the goals behind the transmission frequency is to ensure that at least one measurement data set is received without loss in the data collector for each secant. Ideally, the transmission frequency and the transmission repetition rate are adjusted to the goal.

[0083] If typical processing speeds of measuring electronics, particularly those implemented with microprocessors or microcontrollers, are compared with the charging and discharging speeds of battery arrays, the battery system or battery array can be classified as a sluggish or slow system. In particular, battery systems constructed with lead-acid batteries or nickel-metal hydride batteries are batteries that are generally designed for short-term peak currents and only experience a (notable) voltage drop after delivering a peak current over a (relatively) longer period. The individual voltages, as well as other parameters describing a battery, can be treated as absolute values. Over time, at the end of a time period, the absolute value changes.A sensor assigned to a rechargeable battery is designed to measure the change in a parameter value, in particular an absolute value, such as the voltage of a group of cells. The group of cells represents part or all of the rechargeable battery (from an energy engineering perspective). The change in the values or parameters over time can be described by a gradient. Another characterization option is to determine a maximum possible range of change, i.e., a jump range. During normal operation, i.e. not at the end of the operating time or, for example, during a deep discharge phase, the rechargeable battery, provided it is operated according to specifications, has a low voltage drop rate.In such a case, the next measurement—i.e., a measurement that differs from the first measurement by a certain time interval—may be taken after a longer period of time, particularly after several seconds, minutes, or hours. Nevertheless, reliable values will be determined, provided no other measurement errors occur.

[0084] The term CAN bus refers to certain groups of physically interconnected buses that operate at specific voltage levels, in particular terminated by resistors arranged at the end of the data bus. The term CAN bus also refers to protocols that are implemented in software. Thus, it is possible to refer to a bus system as a CAN bus that either corresponds only physically to a CAN bus, in particular in terms of voltage, or to refer to bus systems as CAN buses that correspond only in terms of software, i.e., in particular with regard to the processing logic. Bus systems that correspond to a CAN bus protocol in both hardware and software are also sufficiently referred to as CAN buses.

[0085] A system according to the invention can be implemented in one embodiment as follows: In a memory located in each of the existing measuring sensors (in other words, each measuring sensor has its own memory), not only the current measured values but also polygonal lines in the form of secant vertices are stored. Using the secant vertices, past measurement data can be described.

[0086] Secants whose start and end times lie in the past are deleted when they reach a certain age (e.g., more than 65,535 measurements have been made). The secant ending in the current measured value is updated (extended) with the next measurement. However, it may also happen that instead of extending the previous secant, a new secant is started, especially in cases where updating the old secant leads to a limit being exceeded, e.g., if the (specified) error bound is violated.

[0087] If the memory of a sensor is full during a data update, the oldest secant in the memory is discarded (i.e. "overwritten").

[0088] If a memory is used that can record and archive, for example, 65,536 measurement points, the following numerical example results in one configuration: A secant of the long-term log is described by two vertices of 5 bytes each and can ideally represent up to 65,536 measurement points (e.g., individual values for "voltage," "temperature," "time," etc.) (assuming appropriate "smoothness" of the measurement data).

[0089] Data from a single measuring point can, for example, be 3 bytes in size (measuring point "voltage", measuring point "temperature" or measuring point "voltage in combination with temperature").

[0090] If all measurement points were archived individually, 65,536 such measurement points would require approximately 196 kB of memory. Compared to a secant, which requires only 10 bytes. Based on the combined data, the data compression factor when using secants can be as high as approximately 1 to 19,600.

[0091] Such an implementation stores up to 128 vertices in 640 bytes. This means that a corresponding amount of detail can be displayed over a period of up to 65,535 previous measurements, which, with a measurement grid of 10 seconds, corresponds to approximately 7.5 days.

[0092] Each measurement data record transmitted over the communication channel now contains, in addition to the current measured values, at least one secant value representing past measurement data. If multiple secant values are present in the sensor's memory, these are transmitted sequentially, cyclically, in consecutive measurement data records.

[0093] Different measurement data set types can be used, for example, a "Type 1" and a "Type 2" can be used: ∘ Type 1 ("Short-term log" type): This type ("Type 1") is used to display the most recent Measurement data history,This allows them to be reconstructed in the measurement data collector in a timely manner. Such types can be used when measurement data sets have been lost due to collisions or minor EMC interference. There are cases where the communication channel is otherwise not particularly disturbed. In principle, complete transmission is possible at almost all times (a "standing connection" can be assumed). In an exemplary embodiment, this type ("Type 1") operates with exactly two secant lines, each of which represents a number of measurement points in a value range from 2 to a maximum of, for example, 129 measurement points (limited by the selected, very compact format of the transmitted data packets). In this way, this type ("Type 1") can represent the measurements of up to 256 measurements in the past (with a measurement interval of 10 seconds between two measurements, this is (in total) approximately 43 minutes).Ideally, a measurement data record always transmits both secants of the short-term log simultaneously. ∘ Type 2 ("Long-term log" type): This type ("Type 2") is used to display a longer history of measurement data, whereby after a prolonged period of total disruption of the communication channel (e.g., caused by a complete loss of reception, such as during emergency operation, for a period of 10 minutes or even several hours), the interim measurements can be reconstructed as completely as possible in the measurement data collector. In the present exemplary embodiment of this type, a maximum of 128 secants can be stored in memory. A single secant can represent up to 65,535 measurement points, and its end point can lie a maximum of 65,535 measurement intervals in the past. The displayable time period is therefore a maximum of 131,071 measurement intervals (with a measurement interval of 10 seconds, the time period is approximately (or"good") 15 days for measured values that remain constant or change at a constant rate. If a change in the measured values occurs, the sensor can check whether 128 secants are sufficient to display all details. In this case, the displayable period is at least 7.5 days.

[0094] The sufficiently frequent (=redundant) transmission of identical data (e.g. by a lap counter or by a transmission initiated by a touring counter, which transmits individual measurement data sets every second and through which a repeated transmission takes place), whereby data losses threatened by collisions and communication channel disruptions can be avoided, is ensured in the present implementation by appropriate dimensioning of memory size, maximum secant length, etc., a complete curve progression in the receiver "measurement data collector".

[0095] Now, another numerical example may clarify the technical implementation of the teaching explained above: With 160 measuring transducers or sensors, the probability that a measurement data set from one measuring transducer will not collide with any measurement data set from another measuring transducer (in the sense of a collision of transmissions or transmission times) is 37%. If a detail from this measurement data set, e.g., a secant value, is also transmitted in further measurement data sets, e.g., a total of 32 times, the probability that the measurement data set will reach the measurement data collector at least once without a collision is 99.99996%, which, with a 10-second measurement interval, corresponds to less than 2 measurement points per year and measurement sensor of data loss. A single secant of the "long-term log" measurement type can be transmitted up to 128 times, provided it is not overwritten by another (when the memory is full).

[0096] Another interesting fact worth highlighting is that a measurement method based on the previously presented algorithm attempts to describe a sequence of incoming measurement points as piecewise linear. Starting with a single measurement point, it is assumed that the subsequent measurement points lie (approximately) on a straight line with the first, the gradient of which is initially unknown. The algorithm therefore does not specify the gradient; instead, it simply defines an upper and a lower bound, which are calculated based on the first two measurement points—subject to the specified absolute representation accuracy. These bounds are continuously adjusted as long as the new incoming measurement points "fit" them, i.e., can actually be approximated by a common straight line. In this process, the upper and lower bounds gradually (quasi-converge) move toward a single value.The limits further restrict the gradient interval and the vertical range within which further acceptable measurement points lie, which are still considered to "belong" to the same straight line. If a measurement point is found that lies outside the limits or limits, the previous straight line is considered "completed." A new straight line is started, with a new, also initially unknown gradient.

[0097] It should also be emphasized that various embodiments of the secant algorithm make no assumptions about the absolute values of a straight line's gradient. In these embodiments, no absolute values are specified either.

[0098] In a further embodiment, the secant algorithm can operate with a single constant, which determines the absolute representation accuracy. This makes the algorithm scaling-invariant with respect to the time axis, meaning that a measured value curve that follows a shape is always broken down into the same number of secants. It is irrelevant, or insignificant, or unimportant, whether it extends over one minute or over many hours.

[0099] Furthermore, it should be emphasized that the measuring method or the measurement control and the associated measuring device, which comprises at least one sensor, can operate particularly advantageously with inert, i.e., slowly changing, measured variables and parameters to be measured (parameters and measured variables can be considered "inert" if—depending on the design of the measurement control—they remain within the limit value(s), i.e., within the (specified) error limits, for minutes, hours, or even days). In such systems, for example, with correspondingly large-sized accumulator arrays (accumulators and accumulator arrays with charges of several ampere-hours (Ah), particularly three-, four-, and five-digit ampere-hour values), which are to be monitored by measurement technology, the presented measuring method or the presented measurement control demonstrates its advantages particularly strongly.Such systems can operate with particularly high data compression.

[0100] Thanks to the previously presented method, data can be transmitted securely to the measurement data collector, even if the connection was or is temporarily disrupted. Data is staggered and ideally transmitted multiple times over the communication channel, allowing even older data, possibly created at a time when there was a disruption on the communication channel, to be staggered, i.e., subsequently transmitted to the measurement data collector. Short character description

[0101] The present invention can be understood even better if reference is made to the accompanying figures, which illustrate particularly advantageous embodiments by way of example, without limiting the present invention to these, wherein Figure 1shows an energy supply device with several accumulators and a measuring system, Figure 2 shows a transmission on a communication channel to a measurement data collector using measurement and calculation curves, Figure 3 shows an example of a voltage and temperature curve with individual measuring points that can be measured by a sensor, Figure 4 shows extracted voltage and temperature polygons with individually calculated support points by a calculation algorithm, which a measuring sensor of a first embodiment can store in the memory and / or transmit on a transmission channel, Figure 5 shows voltage and temperature polygons with common support points, which a measuring sensor of a second embodiment can store in the memory and / or transmit on a transmission channel, Figures 6 to 8 shows individual moments or points in time in the calculation of a secant algorithm, Figure 9 shows a "short-term log" in the sense of a "Type 1" measurement data set and Figure 10 a "long-term log" in the sense of a "Type 2" measurement data set. Character description

[0102] The design options shown in the individual figures can also be combined with each other in any way.

[0103] Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a measuring system 6 which can monitor a larger group of accumulators 3, 3 I<, 3", 3 III<, 3 IV< of an energy supply device 1 by means of centrally arranged monitoring electronics 4 or a measurement data collector. The energy of the energy storage packages 3, 3 I<, 3 II<, 3 III<, 3 IV<, which are connected partly in series and partly in parallel, is delivered to consumers, such as the load 22, via power line connections 2, 2 I<.

[0104] Parts of the measuring system 6 are a monitoring electronics 4 and measuring sensors 7, 7 I<, 7 II<, 7 III<, 7 IV< assigned to the accumulators 3, 3', 3", 3 III<, 3 IV<, which can also be referred to as measuring sensors, particularly in cases where the metrological parameter determination is the main focus of the functional consideration. The monitoring electronics 4, which also includes a measurement data collector, also includes a receiver 5. Via this, data records on the power lines 15, 15 I< can be tapped.

[0105] The energy supply facility 1 according to Figure 1is intended to make energy from energy storage packages 3, 3 I<, 3", 3 III<, 3 IV< such as lead-acid batteries available to at least one load 22, e.g. a server system, via power line connections 2, 2 I<. In this case, loads occur for the energy storage packages 3, 3 I<, 3", 3 III<, 3 IV<. In order to make the energy on the power lines 15, 15 I< available to the load 22 in the best possible control, e.g. in the form of an alternating voltage, the measurement data collector or the monitoring electronics 4 with its receiver 5 collects data which is made available via at least one of the communication channels 28, 30, 32. Overall, a battery monitoring device 50 is formed by the interaction of a larger number of measuring sensors 7, 7 I<, 7 II<, 7 III<, 7 IV< and the measurement data collector 4 as part of the monitoring electronics.A measuring sensor 7, 7 I< , 7 II< , 7 III< , 7 IV< comprises a measuring device 9, 9 I< , 9 II< , 9 III< , 9 IV< , 9 V< , 9 VI< , 9 VII< , 9 VIII< , 9 IX< , a microcontroller 8, 8 I< , 8 II< , 8 III< , 8 IV< and a transmitter 10, 10 I< , 10", 10 III< , 10 IV< . The microcontroller 8, 8 I< , 8", 8 III< , 8 IV< performs calculations to measure the values transmitted by the measuring device 9, 9 I< , 9 II< , 9 III< , 9 IV< , 9 V< , 9 VI< , 9 VII< , 9 VIII< , 9 IX< measured data in a processed form that can be conveniently processed using the . Figure 2 can be explained, via a chain of modulators 16, 16', 16", 16 III<, 16 IV< and a demodulator 17 of the monitoring electronics 4.

[0106] A measuring device, such as the measuring device 9, 9 I< , 9 II< , 9 III< , 9 IV< , 9 V< , 9 VI< , 9 VII< , 9 VIII< , 9 IX< , measures different parameters in various ways, e.g. a temperature of an energy storage package 3, 3 I< , 3 II< , 3 III< , 3 IV< via the measuring point 12, 12', 12", 12 III< , 12 IV<. Voltages of individual cells or groups of cells of the energy storage devices or energy storage packages 3, 3 I< , 3", 3 III< , 3 IV< can be measured via connections 11, 11 I< , 11 II< , 11 III< , 11 IV<. The energy storage packages 3, 3 I< , 3", 3 III< , 3 IV< have poles like the poles 34, 34 I< , which are available as energy connections 26, 26', 26", 26 III< , 26 IV< , 26 V< , 26 VI< , 26 VII< , 26 VIII< , 26 IX<. By serially connecting individual energy storage packages 3, 3 I< , 3 II< , 3 III< , 3 IV< orA parallel connection of, ideally several, energy storage packages 3, 3 I< , 3 II< , 3 III< , 3 IV< grouped into a string by a serial connection forms a source for the output of electrical energy at the energy connections 26, 26', 26", 26 III< , 26 IV< , 26 V< , 26 VI< , 26 VII< , 26 VIII< , 26 IX< , which is then also available at the energy lines 15, 15 I<.

[0107] The entire arrangement can also be referred to (electrochemically not entirely correctly) as battery monitoring 23, which is thus composed as a distributed system of (among others) measuring sensors 7, 7 I<, 7 II<, 7 III<, 7 IV< and at least one measurement data collector 4.

[0108] As also from the Figure 1As can be seen, there are three different communication channels 28, 30, 32. The first communication channel 28 uses the power lines 15, 15 I< . The second communication channel 30 transmits via a special bus, more precisely via a CAN bus (from an electrical or hardware-related perspective) (see, for example, the terminating resistors). The third communication channel 32 is formed by light transmission, as can be seen at the light emitters 36, the LEDs, and the light-dependent resistor, the receiver 38 in the block diagram of the Figure 1 to recognize.

[0109] From the block diagram of the Figure 1It can be seen that the energy connections 26, 26 I< , 26 II< , 26 III< , 26 IV< , 26 V< , 26 VI< , 26 VII< , 26 VIII< , 26 IX< tap a voltage at different points between the cells of the energy storage packages 3, 3 I< , 3", 3 III< , 3 IV< than the connections 11, 11 I< , 11 II< , 11 III< , 11 IV< for the measuring device 9, 9 I< , 9 II< , 9 III< , 9 IV< , 9 V< , 9 VI< , g VII< ,9 VIII< , 9 IX< . Thus, it is possible that individual cells of an energy storage package 3, 3 I< , 3", 3 III< , 3 IV< as Damping elements are interposed between the power line 15, 15 I< and the connection 11, 11 I< , 11", 11 III< , 11 IV< for the measuring device 9, 9 I< , 9 II< , 9 III< , 9 IV< , 9 V< , 9 VI< , 9 VII< ,9 VIII< , 9 IX<.

[0110] In Figure 2 is shown as a real measurement curve U , T, which comprises two parameters U (voltage), T (temperature) which vary over a time t, after transmission 40 via at least one of the communication channels 28, 30, 32 to the measurement data collector 4 (see Figure 1 ) is converted into an approximated curve T abg. From Figure 2 is the curve-dependent treatment of each individual measurement curve U , T While the measurement curve T is to be converted within the scope of the transmission 40, due to the secant method applied and the limit values used in the secant method, the measurement curve Uwithout an end point or end point formation for the creation of the secant in the considered time interval between t 1 and t 7. At individual times, such as the time t 1 , t 2 , t 3 , t 4 , t 5 , t 6 , t 7 , individual measurements are carried out to determine the measuring points M 1 , MI< 1 , M II< 1 , from which an (averaged) measuring point is determined. Several measurements with their measuring points M 1 , MI< 1 , M II< 1 are approximated to a measuring point, with which the further calculations are carried out as a value for a time t 1. After a repetition rate t 1 , t 2 (tau) another measurement takes place at another time t 2 , t 3 .

[0111] After the transmission 40 of the data sets to the measurement data collector 4, a polygonal composition of the derived measurement curve T apg. takes place by combining the secant values T 1 , T 2 , T 3 , T 1 I< , T 2 I< , T 3 I<. The secant values T 1 , T 2 , T 3 are intended for a different polygonal composition (different calculation method) than the secant values T 1 I< , T 2 I< , T 3 I< , which extend over longer periods of time than the shorter secant values T 1 , T 2 , T 3. The time periods over which individual secants T 1 , T 2 , T 3 , T 1 I< , T 2 I< , T 3 I< extend are of different lengths. The measurement curve T abg . is an approximating curve that combines several parameters.

[0112] Represents the initial curve for measurements of a sensor, such as one of the sensors 7, 7 I< , 7 II< , 7 III< and 7 IV< (according to Figure 1 ), one in Figure 3If the parameter development or parameter change shown is displayed on the measuring sensor, the measuring sensor can be programmed in such a way that it determines the parameter value (e.g. a voltage value U or a temperature value T) present at the measuring point M 1 , M 2 , M 3 at regular intervals, more precisely at selected times t I< 1 , t I< 2 , t I< 3 , t I< 4 , t I< 5 , t I< 6 , t I< 7 , t I< 8 , t I< 9 ). The secant algorithm implemented in the measuring sensor then determines, among other things, whether a voltage value U 1 , U 2 , U 3 or a temperature value Ť 1 , Ť 2 , Ť 3 (cf. Figure 4 ) is to be converted into a vertex related to a point in time (cf. the measuring points marked with rectangular boxes, such as the measuring point M 1 ). The individual curves, such as the voltage curve U or the temperature curve T, are measured by the sensor only at specific or discrete times t I< 1 , t I< 2 , t I< 3 , t I< 4 , t I< 5 , t I< 6 , t I< 7 , t I< 8 , t I< 9. This already data-reduced curve representation of the voltage curve U and the temperature curve T is further reduced by means of vertex formation or secant formation.

[0113] After the conversion of the data to be carried out in the sensor, which is initially presented as a voltage curve U and as the course of the temperature curve T (see Figure 3 ) are present, into courses or curve shapes based on secants S1, S2 (see Figure 4 ), as can be seen from Figure 4 can be read, the curves are approximated by piecewise continuous, preferably straight elements. Only corner points of the curves U , T, which are also present in the curve as individual prominent voltage values U 1 , U 2 , U 3 or as individual prominent temperature values Ť 1 , Ť 2 , Ť 3, are documented by vertices that are referenced to points in time. The rectangular boxes illustrate that only these corner points or vertices need to be saved, transferred, managed, and / or retained and calculated in order to further process an approximate curve as a derived temperature curve T abg or as a derived voltage curve U abg. Data are only stored and further processed as individual values of the voltage U or the temperature T at the times t II< 1 , t II< 2 , t II< 3 , t II< 4 instead of the original measured values at the times t I< 1 , t I< 2 , t I< 3 , t I< 4 , t I< 5 , t I< 6 , t I< 7 , t I< 8 , t I< 9 .

[0114] As a further possibility to simplify the system and compress data, as can be seen from Figure 5As can be seen, a temporal adjustment between the vertices in the time course t of the voltage U and the temperature T must be carried out. If the points in time, such as the points in time t III< 1 , t III< 2 , t III< 3 , t III< 4 , at which vertices are formed, are coordinated with one another between the individual parameters, such as the voltage U and the temperature T, tuples can be formed which, at a point in time such as the point in time t III< 1 , t III< 2 , t III< 3 or t III< 4 , store or add both a voltage value, such as the voltage value U 1 , U 2 , U 3 or U 4 , and a temperature value, such as the temperature value Ť 1 , Ť 2 , Ť 3 or Ť 4 , in the tuple - in particular to the time value of a point in time which is only stored once, such as the points in time t III< 1 , t III< 2 , t III< 3 , t III< 4 .Further data compression occurs in that a time point, such as one of the times t III< 1 , t III< 2 , t III< 3 , t III< 4 , is archived only once for each stored measurement point. The voltage U 1 and the temperature Ť 1 determine the curve shape of the voltage curve U and the temperature curve T at the same time t III< 1 . If the reference points or the times t III< 1, t III< 2 , t III< 3 , t III< 4 are regarded as support points for determining the inflection, extreme and change in course points (vertices), it is sufficient to save these times t III< 1 , t III< 2 , t III< 3 , t III< 4 , between which periods or time intervals of different lengths exist or can exist, together with the parameters present at the measuring sensor at these times t III< 1 , t III< 2 , t III< 3 , t III< 4 , such as voltage U 1 , U 2 , U 3 , U 4 , or temperature Ť 1 , Ť 2 , Ť 3 , Ť 4 .

[0115] Based on the Figures 6 to 8The progression can be understood step by step using the secant algorithm. A secant SI< 1 , SI< 2 , SI< 3 describes at least two measured values, e.g. an output voltage value such as the voltage value U 0 at time t 0 (see also Figure 9) and, for example, a first measured voltage value U 1 at the time of the first interpolation point i = 1. A first point and a last point of such a secant SI< 1 , SI< 2 , SI< 3 (thus an intermediately stored start and end point) correspond to real measured values such as the measured values U 1 , U 2 , U 3 , UI< 3 (with regard to these points, one can speak of a representation error of zero magnitude). The measuring point m 1 is formed by the voltage value U 1. During the first measurement, a secant value SI< 1 is initialized at the beginning by the current measuring point of the voltage U 1 and the immediately preceding measuring point of the voltage U 0. At this point in time, the number of support points i max combined in the secant SI< 1 is 1. The specified absolute representation accuracy δ Fm , δ I< Fm determines the straight line gradients m U< and m L< and thus the boundaries, e.g. of a funnel-shaped test area (see hatched area).In connection with the first measurement m 1 , the upper straight line gradient m 1 U< and the lower straight line gradient m 1 L< are derived from this measuring point or measurement m 1 by absolute representation accuracy δ Fm , δ I< Fm. For later, subsequent measurements or measuring points m 2 , m 3 , the straight line gradients are formed as a function of these measuring points M 2 U< , m 3 U< , m 2 L< , m 3 L<.

[0116] In general, it can be said that the respective measured value, such as the voltage UK for the measuring step K, must lie within the specified error FM, which results from the additive addition of the specified partial errors δ Fm , δ I< Fm for the upper straight line gradient m U< and the lower straight line gradient m L<. For simplification, it can be assumed that the partial errors δ Fm , δ I< Fm are identical in width or size. However, different partial errors δ Fm , δ I< Fm for the upper straight line gradient m U< and the lower straight line gradient m L< can also be specified.

[0117] Furthermore, it should be noted that if a straight line is drawn through any point in the test area and through the starting point U 0 , this straight line intersects the error bar resulting from the maximum error FM, which has the size δ Fm , δ I < Fm around the end point of the voltage UK (i.e. at i = 1 U 1 , at i = 2 U 2 , etc.). Consequently, this straight line will describe the point UK (depending on the measurement, therefore the points U 1 , U 2 , U 3 , etc.) with the maximum error δ Fm , δ I < Fm (in both the decreasing and increasing directions).

[0118] For each subsequent new measuring point m 2 , m 3 etc., it is checked whether it lies within the (continuing) test area (see the hatched area, especially in the figures Figure 7 and Figure 8). If the measurement point m 2 , m 3 , etc. lies within the test region, the secant may be "updated" by replacing the previous endpoint with the new measurement point m 2 , m 3 , etc. In this case, the boundaries of the test region (see hatched area) are also adjusted. At the next measurement m 2 , m 3 , (generally mi with i from the range of natural numbers), the test region contains all straight lines that, counted from the starting point of the secant, describe all points, including the new endpoint, with a maximum error of δ Fm , δ I < Fm . This means that the "funnel-like" test region will narrow further with each measured value m 2 , m 3 , etc. (mi ). In the extreme, even desired, case of very long secants, m U and m L converge ever closer to each other. The limit value is an average straight line gradient through a point cloud of the intermediate measured values (between the first and the last measured value of the secant).

[0119] Based on the figures Figure 7 and Figure 8 It can be seen that the upper straight line gradient m U< and the lower straight line gradient m L< lead to a test area adjustment 95, 95 I< as an unchanged straight line 80, 80 I< or as an updated straight line 90, 90 I<, depending on the updating of the secant corner point by the measured value such as the voltage U 2 , U 3 .

[0120] If the new measurement point, such as the voltage value UI< 3, is outside the test area, the secant SI< 3 is considered to be finished. In the next step, a new secant S II< 1 is started. This means that the previous measurement value m 3 and end point of the previous secant SI< 3 becomes the starting point of the new secant S II< 1 (see Figure 8 ). The end point of the "old" secant SI< 3 is initialized with the current measured value. The new secant S II< 1 also starts with exactly two measured values (cf. U 0 and U 1 in Figure 6 ) contains.

[0121] The previously described process and the previously described secant formation are repeated for the next secant.

[0122] The secant formation, the secant algorithm, and the progression of the curve approximation have been described primarily using voltage values and temperature values. However, it is also possible to treat other electronic, electrical, and / or electrochemical parameters, such as current, resistance, charge, and concentration, in particular those of an electrochemical converter, in a similar manner.

[0123] The Figures 2 to 8 primarily present the curve calculation, in particular the secant formation of the secants T 1 I< , T 2 I< , T 3 I< , S 1 , S 2 , SI< 1 , SI< 2 , SI< 3 , S II< 1 , which are particularly used by the sensors 7, 7 I< , 7 II< , 7 III< , 7 IV< (see Figure 1 ) are implemented.

[0124] The "backward calculation", the derivation of the approximated curve, takes place in the receiver 5, which preferably extracts or extrapolates the curve course from a time t 0 (current time) into the past.

[0125] As mentioned, the support points t 0 , t 0 - δt 1 - δt 2 , t 0 - δt 1 are distributed differently in the domain time t. They depend on the vertices of the parameters such as the voltage U and the temperature T. The voltage values U 0 , U -1 , U -2 and the temperature values T 0 , T -1 , T -2 are determined using the secants such as those to the Figures 2 to 8 explained secants T 1 I< , T 2 I< , T 3 I< , S 1 , S 2 , SI< 1 , SI< 2 , SI< 3 , S II< 1 backwards into the past, ie derived again with increasing age.

[0126] In Figure 9a "short-term log" ("Type 1") is shown. Each of the parameters U, T is determined using its own secant with the support points U 0 , U -1 , U -2 and T 0 , T -1 , T -2 respectively. The times t 0 , t 0 - δt 1 - δt 2 , t 0 - δt 1 as support points of the two secants are, however, recorded together, i.e., uniformly. For example, at time t 0 - δt 1 there are the stress value U -1 and the temperature value T -1 as secant corner points.

[0127] Figure 10shows a "long-term log" ("Type 2"). With the "long-term log", it is preferable to work with only one secant for all parameters processed by the receiver, such as voltage U and temperature T. Furthermore, the support points t IV< 1 , t IV< 2 are only present once for all curves. The time periods t L , t E can comprise up to 65,535 measurement intervals. To better illustrate this measurement and data situation, the very long period t E , lasting for example, days, is shown as a broken curve. In the domain of time t , the curve is approximated backwards from the current time t 0 using piecewise composing straight lines as a curve substitute. List of reference symbols

[0128] Reference symbol Meaning 1 Energy supply facility 2, 2 I< Power line connection 3, 3 I< , 3 II< , 3 III< , 3 IV< Energy storage package, especially lead-acid battery 4 Monitoring electronics or measurement data collector 5 Recipient 6 measuring system 7, 7 I<, 7 II<, 7 III<, 7 IV< Measuring sensor 8, 8 I<, 8 II<, 8 III<, 8 IV< Microcontroller, in particular with a microprocessor unit 9, 9 I< , 9 II< , 9 III< , 9 IV< , 9 V< , 9 VI< , 9 VII< ,9 VIII< , 9 IX< measuring device 10, 10 I<, 10 II<, 10 III<, 10 IV< Sender 11, 11 I<, 11", 11 III<, 11 IV< Connection 12, 12', 12", 12 III<, 12 IV< measuring point 15, 15 I< Lines, especially power lines 16, 16', 16 II<, 16 III<, 16 IV< modulator 17 Demodulator, especially in a microcontroller 22 Load, especially resistive and inductive load 23 Battery monitoring 26, 26', 26", 26 III<, 26 IV<, 26 V<, 26 VI<, 26 VII<, 26 VIII<, 26 IX< Energy connection 28 first communication channel 30 second communication channel 32 third communication channel 34, 34 I< Pole, especially of a battery 36 Light emitters, especially LEDs 38 Receivers, especially for light signals 40 transmission 50 Battery monitoring device 80, 80 I< unchanged straight line 90, 90 I< updated straight line 95, 95 I< Test area adaptation K Measuring step M 1 , M 1 I < , M 1 II < , M 2 , M 3 measuring point T1, T2, T3 secant or secant section T 1 I< , T 2 I< , T 3 I< secant or secant section T abg . derived curve U Tension U 1 , U 2 , U 3 , UI< 3 , U 4 Voltage values U0, U-1, U-2 Voltage values, especially at previous points in time U Voltage curve U abg . derived curve U k Voltage or voltage value for measuring step K T temperature T Temperature curve Ť 1 , Ť 2 , Ť 3 , Ť 4 Temperature value, especially at individual points in time T 0 , T -1 , T -2 Temperature values, especially at previous times t Time t 1 , t 2 Time period t 0 , t 1 , t 2 , t 3 , t 4 , t 5 , t 6 , t 7 , t 1 I, t 2 I< , t 3 I< , t 4 I< , t 5 I< , t 6 I< , t 7 I< , t 8 I< , t 9 I< , t 1 II< , t 2 II< , t 3 II< , t 4 II< , t 1 III< , t 2 III< , t 3 III< , t 4 III< , t 1 IV< , t 2 IV< time δt 1 , δt 2 Period of time, especially short-term period of time t L Period of time, especially long-term period of time t E Period of time, especially long-term period of time S1, S2, SI<1, SI<2, SI<3, SII<1 Secant, especially secant used in the sensor (calculation) i Support point, in particular independent of time, preferably as an abstractly determined measuring point imax Number of combined or skipped support points m U< upper straight line gradient m L< lower straight line gradient m 1 U< , m 2 U< , m 3 U< upper straight line gradient, related to a specific measuring point m 1 L< , m 2 L< , m 3 L< lower straight line gradient, related to a specific measuring point m 1 , m 2 , m 3 Measuring point, especially a measuring point read into a sensor mi i-th measurement or i-th measuring point δ Fm , δ I< Fm specified error or display accuracy FM specified error, in particular specified maximum error, preferably error interval

Claims

1. Distributed measurement system (6), comprising at least two measurement sensors (7, 7I, 7", 7III, 7IV) for measuring in each case at least two parameters (U, T) of a battery (3, 3I, 3II, 3III, 3IV), and comprising a measured data collector (4), which is connected via power supply lines (15, 15I), wherein there is a wired data bus between the measurement sensors (7, 7I, 7II, 7III, 7IV) and the measured data collector (4), wherein measured data is transmitted via the data bus from at least one of the measurement sensors (7, 7I, 7II, 7III, 7IV) to the measured data collector (4), characterized in that at least one of the measurement sensors (7, 7I, 7II, 7III, 7IV) is designed to transmit at least two different measured data sets, a first measured data set and a second measured data set, at different points in time via the data bus, which measured data sets include a determined measurement point (M1I) as a value for a secant value (T1I) with temporal lengths that differ from measured data set to measured data set.

2. Distributed measurement system (6) according to claim 1, characterized in that in addition to the data bus as a first communication channel (28), there is a second communication channel (30) for establishing a connection to the measured data collector (4).

3. Distributed measurement system (6) according to claim 2, characterized in that a transmission (40) via the communication channel (28, 30) takes place by means of an amplitude-modulated square-wave signal, wherein the transmission (40) takes place over more than one carrier frequency.

4. Distributed measurement system (6) according to claim 3, characterized in that data from measurement sensors (7, 7I, 7II, 7III, 7IV) is measured and, processed by way of calculations by microcontrollers (8, 8I, 8II, 8III, 8IV) in the measurement sensors (7, 7I, 7II, 7III, 7IV), can be transmitted in the form of measured data sets via a chain formed of a modulator (16, 16I, 16II, 16III, 16IV) and a demodulator (17) by means of a carrier frequency change between types of measured data sets.

5. Distributed measurement system (6) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the distributed measurement system (6) has, as at least one further communication channel (32), an optical transmission path based on light guides and / or electromagnetic waves, which is formed by light emitters (36) and receivers (38).

6. Distributed measurement system (6) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that measured data sets can be transmitted via a communication channel (28, 30, 32), wherein a measured data set represents a multi-parameter set of data, which comprises at least one voltage value (U1, U2, U3, UI3, U4) of a voltage value polygonal chain and at least one temperature value (Ť1, Ť2, Ť3, Ť4, T0, T-1, T-2) of a temperature value polygonal chain.

7. Distributed measurement system (6) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one of the measurement sensors (7, 7I, 7II, 7III, 7IV) is an individual measurement sensor, which is arranged on or in a battery (3, 3I, 3II, 3III, 3IV) assigned to the measurement sensor (7, 7I, 7II, 7III, 7IV) or forms together with one of the batteries (3, 3I, 3", 3III, 3IV) a compact structural unit integrated as one device, thus is assigned to a particular battery (3, 3I, 3", 3III, 3IV) and is responsible for the measured values thereof.

8. Distributed measurement system (6) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a secant algorithm is implemented in the measurement sensor (7, 7I, 7II, 7III, 7IV), wherein the measurement sensor (7, 7I, 7II, 7III, 7IV) has an autonomous control system for transmitting its measured data, said data being derived from multiple individual measurements, and the measurement sensor (7, 7I, 7II, 7III, 7IV) is equipped as a current sensor for an entire battery string, or as a temperature sensor for a room temperature outside a battery cabinet or for a temperature (T) of the battery (3, 3I, 3", 3III, 3IV) assigned to the measurement sensor (7, 7I, 7II, 7III, 7IV).

9. Distributed measurement system (6) according to any one of claims 2 to 8, characterized in that the measured data collector (4) is designed to convert a real measurement curve (U, T), which comprises two parameters (U, T) that can vary over a time (t), following transmission (40) thereof to the measured data collector (4) via at least one of the communication channels (28, 30, 32), into an approximated, derived curve (Tabg.).

10. Distributed measurement system (6) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the same data, in each case in a different electric protocol, can be transmitted via the wired data bus and via the power supply lines (15, 15I).

11. Measurement control system for transmitting at least two sensor values, for use in a distributed measurement system (6) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the measurement control system comprises at least one measurement sensor (7, 7I, 7II, 7III, 7IV), which has an independent control system for transmitting the sensor values, and there is a wired data bus between the at least one measurement sensor (7, 7I, 7II, 7III, 7IV) and a measured data collector (4), wherein the sensor values represent different physical parameters (U, T) of a multi-cell battery (3, 3I, 3", 3III, 3IV) at a first point in time and at a second point in time, as meanwhile physical parameters of a second battery (3, 3I, 3II, 3III, 3IV) are transmitted, wherein all these parameters are transmitted to the measured data collector (4), which is connected via a power supply cable, characterized in that the parameters (U, T) are transmitted as part of a polygonal chain, which is a polygonal chain being an approximation by secants, from the at least one of the measurement sensors (7, 7I, 7II, 7III, 7IV) to the measured data collector (4) via the data bus.

12. Measurement control system according to claim 11, characterized in that secants (S1, S2, SI1, SI2, SI3, SII1) assigned to a parameter (U, T), which are approximated from measurement curves using a secant algorithm implemented in the measurement sensors (7, 7I, 7II, 7III, 7IV), yield a polygonal chain, which renders a curve over time of at least one of the parameters (U, T) in approximated form, wherein at least two different parameters (U, T) are defined by secants (S1, S2, SI1, SI2, SI3, SII1) on the basis of a set of support points (i, t1I, t2I, t3I, t4I, t5I, t6I, t7I, t8I, t9I, t1II, t2II, t3II, t4II, t1III, t2III, t3III, t4III).

13. Measurement control system according to any one of the preceding claims 11 or 12, characterized in that the transmission to the measured data collector (4) comprises two different types of measured data sets.

14. Measurement control system according to any one of the preceding claims 11 to 13, characterized in that each secant (S1, S2, SI4, SI2, SI3, SII1) remains below a maximum length due to a minimum frequency of occurrence of points in time (t0, t1, t2, t3, t4, t5, t6, t7, t1I, t2I, t3I, t4I, t5I, t6I, t7I, t8I, t9I, t1II, t2II, t3II, t4II, t1III, t2III, t3III, t4III) at which a respective vertex defines a start and / or an end of a secant (S1, S2, SI1, SI2, SI3, SII1), and / or due to adhering to a maximum absolute error (FM) based on a rendering of the curve by a secant (S1, S2, SI1, SI2, SI3, SII1) instead of a parameter curve, wherein the error is adjusted by measured parameters from one measurement to a next measurement.

15. Method for transmitting measured data, which can be carried out on a distributed electronic measurement system (6), in particular a measurement system (6) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein individual measurement sensors (7, 7I, 7II, 7III, 7IV) are assigned to respective electrochemical converters, wherein one part of a measurement control system, in particular a measurement control system according to any one of claims 11 to 14, ensures measurement of parameters (U, T) of the electrochemical converter, wherein parameters (U, T) recorded as measured values by one of the measurement sensors (7, 7I, 7II, 7III, 7IV) are transmitted from the measurement sensor (7, 7I, 7II, 7III, 7IV) to the remote measured data collector (4) via multiple communication channels, wherein between the measurement sensors (7, 7I, 7II, 7III, 7IV) and the measured data collector (4) there is a wired communication bus, which forms one of the communication channels (28, 30, 32), characterized in that at least two different measured data sets, a first measured data set and a second measured data set, are transmitted by one of the measurement sensors (7, 7I, 7II, 7III, 7IV) at different points in time via the wired communication bus, which measured data sets include a determined measurement point (M1I) as a value for a secant value (T1I) with temporal lengths that differ from measured data set to measured data set.