Dynamic charging module systems and methods

Abstract

A system involving dynamically charging energy storage devices is disclosed. A system includes an electrical circuit including a high voltage charger, a first energy storage device, a second energy storage device, and a controller. The controller is configured to insert the first energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger, cause the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the first energy storage device so that the first energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger, insert the second energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger, cause the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger, and cause the high voltage charger to charge energy storage devices connected in series with the high voltage charger in the electrical circuit.

Description

Dynamic Charging Module Systems and MethodsCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent App. No. 63 / 482.838, filed on February 2, 2023, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. Further, the contents of U.S. Patent App. No. 17 / 648.285, filed on January 18, 2022, are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] Energy storage systems may include one or more energy storage devices, such as batten’ cells, battery modules, or battery packs connected in series or in parallel with each other. The energy storage devices can be connected in series to be recharged by a single charger simultaneously, provided that each energy' storage device in the series has the same voltage and capacity rating. Such a charging scheme may be accomplished by applying a voltage level to the system that is suitable to drive current through the energy storage devices.

[0003] However, energy storage systems may experience decreased efficiency when, for example, a battery cell in a battery’ pack experiences a defect or failure (e.g., overheating, cell polarization, or low voltage output) or slight imbalances between subsequent battery cells (e.g., differing states of charge (SOC) or states of health (SOH)) are present. Such decreased efficiencies can result from production inconsistencies and / or wear over time. If there are differences in SOC or SOH among the battery7cells, maximum energy transfer to the battery cells per unit time gets limited since each battery’ cell may reach a full-charge level or experience a charge tapering at a different time. This may reduce the overall charge rate and / or charge power input into the energy storage system, thus increasing the total charge time. Sometimes, these imbalances may even prevent one or more of the battery cells in the battery’ pack from being charged to its maximum capacity7.SUMMARY

[0005] Embodiments described herein relate to systems and methods for dynamically charging energy storage devices, such as batteries. More particularly, some embodiments resolve the limitations of charging unequally discharged energy storage devices in a module that allows a higher charge energy input per unit time.

[0006] An example embodiment includes a system. The system includes an electrical circuit that includes a high voltage charger, a first energy storage device, a second energy storage device, and a controller. The controller is configured to insert the first energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger, cause the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the first energy storage device so that the first energystorage device is not connected to the high voltage charger, insert the second energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger, cause the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger, and cause the high voltage charger to charge the first energy storage device and the second energy storage device when connected in series with the high voltage charger in the electrical circuit.

[0007] Another example embodiment includes a method. The method includes determining, by a controller, a first voltage level of a first energy storage device of an electrical circuit, determining, by the controller, a second voltage level of a second energy storage device of the electrical circuit, comparing, by the controller, the first voltage level and the second voltage level to a set of threshold voltage levels, determining, by the controller, that the second voltage level is greater than a maximum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels, based on the determination that the second voltage level is greater than the maximum threshold voltage level, inserting, by the controller, the first energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with a high voltage charger and causing, by the controller, the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger, and causing, by the controller, the high voltage charger to charge the first energy storage device.

[0008] Another example embodiment relates to a non-transitoiy. computer-readable medium having stored thereon program instructions that, upon execution by a processor, cause performance of a set of acts that includes determining a first voltage level of a first energy storage device, determining a second voltage level of a second energy storage device,comparing the first voltage level and the second voltage level to a set of threshold voltage levels, determining that the second voltage level is greater than a maximum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels, based on the determination that the second voltage level is greater than the maximum threshold voltage level, inserting the first energy storage device into an electrical circuit in series with a high voltage charger and causing the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy’ storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger, and causing the high voltage charger to charge the first energy storage device.

[0009] These as well as other aspects, advantages, and alternatives will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art by reading the following detailed description, with reference, where appropriate, to the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 is a system for dynamically charging energy storage devices, according to exemplary embodiments.

[0011] Figure 2 is a system for dynamically charging energy storage devices that uses an isolated low voltage charger independently connected with each energy7storage device, according to exemplary7embodiments.

[0012] Figure 3 is a method of dynamically charging energy storage devices, according to exemplary embodiments.

[0013] Figure 4 depicts a flowchart representing program instructions executable by a processor for dynamically charging energy7storage devices, according to exemplary7embodiments.

[0014] Figure 5 depicts a flowchart representing program instructions executable by a processor for dynamically charging energy storage devices that uses an isolated low voltage charger independently connected with each energy storage device, according to exemplary embodiments.

[0015] Figure 6 depicts a flowchart representing program instructions executable by a processor for dynamically charging energy storage devices using both a high voltage charger and isolated low voltage chargers independently connected with each energy7storage device, according to exemplary embodiments.

[0016] Figure 7 is an illustration of a computing device, according to exemplary embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Disclosed herein are examples of energy storage systems and a method of dynamically charging energy storage devices in an energy storage system to resolve the limitations of charging unequally discharged energy storage devices in a module that allows a higher charge energy input per unit time.Overview

[0019] Example embodiments herein provide for an energy storage system would include a capability to switch an energy storage device experiencing differences in either the SOC or the SOH from the remaining energy storage devices out of the series of charging energy storage devices until the SOC and / or the SOH is more similar to the remaining energy storage devices in the energy storage system. Without this ability, each energy storage device would need to be of same design with same cell type to be able to charge all the cells to their full capacity. Also, these energy7storage devices would need to be always kept in balance to fully charge all cells and discharge them fully as well. However, practically, each energy7storage device has different impedance and capacity spread (e.g., as a result of fabrication tolerances) and starts with imbalances at beginning of life. As the energy storage devices age, the difference in these spreads widen, which results in longer charging times. With dynamic capabilities, the charging efficiency of the energy7storage system can be increased, thereby reducing the amount of time it takes to charge all of the energy storage devices in the energy storage system.

[0020] Accordingly, example embodiments provide for the dynamic ability7of an energy7storage system to insert and remove energy7storage devices into a series of energy7storage devices having a SOC or a SOH above a minimum and / or maximum threshold different from the remaining energy devices in the energy storage system.Example Embodiments

[0021] Figure 1 is a system for dynamically7charging energy storage devices connected in series, according to exemplary embodiments. As illustrated, the embodiment may include a system 100 that includes an electrical circuit. The system 100 may include a high voltage charger 102. For example, the high voltage charger 102 may be a direct-current charger that can provide power to other components of the circuit. In some embodiments, the high voltage charger 102 may be capable of providing constant current and / or constant voltage at command levels given to the high voltage charger 102.

[0022] The system 100 may also include at least a first energy storage device 104 and a second energy storage device 106. In some embodiments, the system 100 can include three or more energy storage devices, such as the third energy storage device 108 illustrated in Figure 1. The energy storage devices 104, 106, and 108 can be any type of energy storage device that is configured to receive electrical energy' from an external circuit and store the energy or discharge the stored energy into an external electrical load. Example energy storage devices include battery cells (e.g.. lithium-ion battery cells) and capacitors.

[0023] Further, the system 100 may include a controller 110. In some embodiments, the controller 110 may be capable of inserting the first energy' storage device 104 into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger 102, inserting the second energy storage device 106 into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger 102, and inserting the third energy' storage device 108 into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger 102. The controller 110 may also be capable of causing the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the first energy' storage device 104 so that the first energy storage device 104 is not connected to the high voltage charger 102, causing the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device 106 so that the second energy storage device 106 is not connected to the high voltage charger 102, and causing the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the third energy storage device 108 so that the third energy' storage device 108 is not connected to the high voltage charger 102. Additionally, the controller 110 may be configured to cause the high voltage charger 102 to charge energy storage devices 104, 106, and 108 when such energy' storage devices 104, 106, and 108 are connected in series with the high voltage charger 102 in the electrical circuit.

[0024] The controller 110 may include one or more components usable to store and / or execute a series of steps. For example, the controller 110 may include a processor (e.g., a general-purpose processor or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)) and a memory (e.g., a volatile memory, such as random-access memory (RAM), or a non-volatile memory, such as read-only memory (ROM)). In such embodiments, the processor may be configured to execute instructions stored within a memory.

[0025] Further, the controller 110 may be communicatively coupled to the high voltage charger 102 and / or the energy storage devices 104, 106, and 108. For instance, the controller 110 may be able to determine the SOC and / or the SOH of each of the energy' storage devices 104, 106, and 108 in order to further execute a series of steps or other controlalgorithms for different types of high-power charging to help increase efficiency in the charging process. Because each energy storage device 104. 106, and 108 is able to be removed from the series of energy storage devices in the system 100, the controller 110 has the ability to optimize the efficiency and accuracy of the system 100.

[0026] In some embodiments, the system 100 may include a safety disconnect 112 such that the controller 110 can direct the safety disconnect 112 to move between an open position to halt the flow of current through the circuit or a closed position so current can flow freely through the circuit.

[0027] In some embodiments, the system 100 may include a first connection circuit 114 and a second connection circuit 116. In some embodiments, the first connection circuit 114 and the second connection circuit 116 may be communicatively coupled to the controller 110. However, in other embodiments as illustrated in Figure 1, the first connection circuit 114 and the second connection circuit 116 may be in indirect communication with the controller 110 by incorporating a contactor control unit 120. The contactor control unit 120 may be communicatively coupled to the controller 110, as well as the first connection circuit 114 and the second connection circuit 116. The controller 110 and / or the contactor control unit 120 may be able to cause the first energy storage device 104 and / or the second energy storage device 106 to be inserted into the circuit created by the system 100.

[0028] Inserting the first energy storage device 104 into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger 102 may include positioning the first connection circuit 114 in a first connecting position 122A. Likewise, causing the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the first energy storage device 104 so that the first energy storage device 104 is not connected to the high voltage charger 102 may include positioning the first connection circuit 114 in a first bypassing position 122B. Similarly, inserting the second energy storage device 106 into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger 102 may include positioning the second connection circuit 116 in a second connecting position 124 A. Further, causing the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device 106 so that the second energy storage device 106 is not connected to the high voltage charger 102 may include positioning the second connection circuit 116 in a second bypassing position 124B.

[0029] In some embodiments, the system 100 may also include additional connection circuits (e.g., the third connection circuit 118, as illustrated in Figure 1). In such examples,inserting the third energy storage device 108 into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger 102 may include positioning the third connection circuit 118 in a third connecting position 126A. Additionally, causing the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the third energy storage device 106 so that the third energy storage device 106 is not connected to the high voltage charger 102 may include positioning the third connection circuit 118 in a third bypassing position 126B.

[0030] In some embodiments, the first connection circuit 114 may include a first contactor such that an end of the first contactor is configured to engage with a connecting terminal in the first connection position 122A when connecting the first energy storage device 104 to the high voltage charger 102. Additionally, the first contactor may be configured to engage with a bypassing terminal in the first bypassing position 122B when removing the first energy storage device 104 from connection with the high voltage charger 102. Similarly, in some embodiments, the second connection circuit 116 may be a second contactor and the third connection circuit 118 may be a third contactor.

[0031] In order to maximize the charging power of the system 100, the controller 110 may dynamically change which energy storage devices are connected in series with the high voltage charger 102. In order to do this, a set of instructions on the order in which to connect and disconnect the energy storage devices for maximum efficiency may be created. There are many examples of how this can be achieved. For instance, in some embodiments, the controller 110 may provide instructions to other components of the system 100 upon determining how to charge each of the energy storage devices in the system 100 most efficiently. For example, energy' storage devices that are determined by the controller 110 to beat their maximum voltage may be bypassed by the series connections of remaining energy storage devices with the high voltage charger 102. Next, energy storage devices that are determined by the controller 110 as having a voltage lower than a low voltage threshold may also be bypassed by the series connections of the remaining energy storage devices with the high voltage charger 102. Further, the energy storage devices that are determined by the controller 110 (e.g., based on the SOC or SOH of those energy storage devices) to have a voltage level below a maximum threshold level and above a minimum threshold level (i.e. , are therefore able to be charged at a maximum rate) may be inserted into the series circuit with the high voltage charger 102. In this way, the controller 110 can maximize the number of energy storage devices that are connected in series with the high voltage charger 102 whilestill bypassing each energy storage device, when necessary, to maximize charging efficiency. Other sets of actions are also possible to be carried out by the controller 110.

[0032] Figure 2 is a system for dynamically charging energy storage devices connected in series that uses an isolated low voltage charger independently7connected with each energy storage device, according to exemplary embodiments. As illustrated, the embodiment may include a system 200 that includes an electrical circuit. The system 200 may include one or more components of the system 100 illustrated in Figure 1. For instance, system 200 may include a high voltage charger 202, a first energy7storage device 204, a second energy7storage device 206, and a third energy7storage device 208. The system 200 may also include a controller 210 communicatively coupled with one or more other components of the system 200.

[0033] In some embodiments, the system 200 may also include a safety7disconnect 212. In some embodiments, the system 200 includes a first connection circuit 214 and a second connection circuit 216. In some embodiments, the first connection circuit 214 and the second connection circuit 216 may be directly communicatively coupled with the controller 210. However, in other embodiments, the first connection circuit 214 and the second connection circuit 216 may be in indirect communication with the controller 210 by incorporating a contactor control unit 220.

[0034] Inserting the first energy storage device 204 into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger 202 may include positioning the first connection circuit 214 in a first connecting position 222A. Likewise, causing the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the first energy7storage device 204 so that the first energy7storage device 204 is not connected to the high voltage charger 202 may include positioning the first connection circuit 214 in a first bypassing position 222B. Similarly, inserting the second energy storage device 206 into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger 202 may include positioning the second connection circuit 216 in a second connecting position 224A. Additionally, causing the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device 206 so that the second energy7storage device 206 is not connected to the high voltage charger 202 may include positioning the second connection circuit 216 in a second bypassing position 224B. Further, inserting the third energy storage device 208 into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger 202 may include positioning the third connection circuit 218 in a third connecting position 226 A. In addition, causing the electricalcircuit to electrically bypass the third energy' storage device 206 so that the third energy' storage device 206 is not connected to the high voltage charger 202 may include positioning the third connection circuit 118 in a third bypassing position 226B.

[0035] In addition, in some embodiments, the system 200 may further include a first low voltage charger 228 connected to the first energy storage device 204 such that the controller 210 is configured to cause the first low voltage charger 228 to charge or discharge the first energy storage device 204 when the first energy storage device 204 is not connected to the high voltage charger 202. This may occur when the first connection circuit 214 is in a first bypassing position 222B. Similarly, in some embodiments, the system 200 may further include a second low voltage charger 230 connected to the second energy storage device 206 such that the controller 210 is configured to cause the second low voltage charger 230 to charge or discharge the second energy storage device 206 when the second energy storage device 206 is not connected to the high voltage charger 202, occurring when the second connection circuit 216 is in a second bypassing position 224B and / or a third low voltage charger 232 connected to the third energy storage device 208 such that the controller 210 is configured to cause the third low voltage charger 232 to charge or discharge the third energy storage device 208 when the third energy storage device 208 is not connected to the high voltage charger 202, occurring when the third connection circuit 21 is in a third bypassing position 226B.

[0036] In some embodiments, the first low voltage charger 228 may be connected in isolated series with the first energy' storage device 204, the second low voltage charger 230 may be connected in isolated series with the second energy' storage device 206, and the third low voltage charger 232 may be connected in isolated series with the third energy storage device 208.

[0037] In some embodiments, the first low voltage charger 228, the second low voltage charger 230, the third low voltage charger 232, and the high voltage charger 202 may all connected in parallel with each other. As such, the controller 210 may be configured to cause the high voltage charger 202 to charge or discharge the low voltage chargers 228, 230. and 232 connected in parallel with the high voltage charger 202 in the electrical circuit. In some embodiments, the first low voltage charger 228, the second low voltage charger 230, and the third low voltage charger 232 may each be a bidirectional balance charger.

[0038] In order to maximize the charging power of the system 200, the controller 210may be able to dynamically change which energy storage devices are connected in series with the high voltage charger 202. In order to do this, a set of instructions regarding the order in which to connect and disconnect the energy storage devices for maximum efficiency may be created. There are many examples of how this can be achieved. For instance, in some embodiments, the controller 210 may provide instructions to other components of the system 200 upon determining how to charge each of the energy storage devices in the system 200 most efficiently. For example, energy storage devices that are determined by the controller 210 to be at their maximum voltage may be bypassed by the series connections of remaining energy storage devices. The energy storage devices may then be discharged using a low voltage charger connected in isolation with that energy storage device to a suitable level for balancing with the remaining energy storage devices in the series. Next, energy storage devices that are determined by the controller 210 to have a voltage less than a low voltage threshold may be bypassed and brought up in charge using a low voltage charger connected in isolation with that energy storage device. Thereafter, energy storage devices that are determined by the controller 210 to have an impedance above a threshold level may be bypassed and a low voltage charger connected in isolation with that energy storage device may be used to charge the energy storage device within its reduced charge limits. Further, the energy7storage devices that have a voltage level below a threshold level and are therefore able to be charged at a maximum rate may be determined by the controller 210 using the SOC and SOH levels of the energy storage devices. Those energy storage devices may be connected in series with the high voltage charger 202. In this way, the controller 210 can maximize the number of energy7storage devices that are connected in series with the high voltage charger 202 while still bypassing each energy storage device, when necessary7, to maximize efficiency. However, as the voltage level of the energy7storage devices reach close to their maximum charging voltages, the energy storage devices may be bypassed from the series so that the corresponding low voltage charger is able to be used to complete the charging and balancing processes. Other sets of actions are also possible to be carried out by the controller 210 and are contemplated herein.

[0039] Figure 3 is a method 300 of dynamically charging energy storage devices, according to exemplary embodiments.

[0040] At block 302, the method 300 may include determining by a controller, a first voltage level of a first energy storage device of an electrical circuit.

[0041] At block 304, the method 300 may include determining, by the controller, a second voltage level of a second energy storage device of the electrical circuit.

[0042] At block 306, the method 300 may include comparing, by the controller, the first voltage level and the second voltage level to a set of threshold voltage levels.

[0043] At block 308, the method 300 may include determining, by the controller, that the second voltage level is greater than a maximum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels.

[0044] At block 310, the method 300 may include, based on the determination that the second voltage level is greater than the maximum threshold voltage level, inserting, by the controller, the first energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with a high voltage charger and causing, by the controller, the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger. In some embodiments, inserting, by the controller, the first energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with a high voltage charger includes positioning a first connection circuit connected to the first energy storage device in a first connecting position and causing, by the controller, the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger includes positioning a second connection circuit connected to the second energy storage device in a second bypassing position. Further, in such embodiments, the first connection circuit may include a first contactor and the second connection circuit may include a second contactor.

[0045] At block 312, the method 300 may include causing, by the controller, the high voltage charger to charge the first energy storage device.

[0046] Additional and alternative steps of method 300 are also possible and are contemplated herein. For instance, the method 300 may further include determining, by the controller, a third voltage level of a third energy storage device, comparing, by the controller, the third voltage level to the set of threshold voltage levels, determining, by the controller, that the third voltage level is less than a minimum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels, and based on the determination that the third voltage level is less than the minimum threshold voltage level, causing, by the controller, the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the third energy storage device so that the third energy' storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger.

[0047] In some embodiments, the method 300 may further include causing, by the controller, a second low voltage charger connected to the second energy storage device to discharge the second energy storage device until the second voltage level is less than the maximum threshold voltage level or causing, by the controller, a third low voltage charger connected to the third energy storage device to charge the third energy7storage device until the third voltage level is greater than the minimum threshold voltage level. Further, in some embodiments, the method 300 may include, based on the determination that the second voltage level is less than the maximum threshold voltage level, inserting, by the controller, the second energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger or, based on the determination that the third voltage level is greater than the minimum threshold voltage level, inserting, by the controller, the third energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger.

[0048] In some embodiments, a non-transitory, computer-readable medium is disclosed having stored thereon program instructions that, upon execution by a processor, cause performance of a set of acts that include determining a first voltage level of a first energy storage device, determining a second voltage level of a second energy storage device, comparing the first voltage level and the second voltage level to a set of threshold voltage levels, determining that the second voltage level is greater than a maximum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels, based on the determination that the second voltage level is greater than the maximum threshold voltage level, inserting the first energy7storage device into an electrical circuit in series with a high voltage charger and causing the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger, and causing the high voltage charger to charge the first energy7storage device. The non-transitory. computer-readable medium may further include program instructions corresponding to any step from the method 300.

[0049] For instance, the set of acts of the non-transitory , computer-readable medium having stored thereon program instructions executable by the processor may include any of the steps found in Figure 4. Figure 4 depicts a flowchart representing program instructions executable by a processor (e g., of a controller) for dynamically7charging energy storage devices, according to exemplary7embodiments.

[0050] Similarly, the set of acts of the non-transitory7, computer-readable mediumhaving stored thereon program instructions executable by the processor may include any of the steps found in Figure 5. Figure 5 depicts a flowchart representing program instructions executable by a processor (e.g., of a controller) for dynamically charging energy storage devices that uses an isolated low voltage charger independently connected with each energy storage device, according to exemplary embodiments.

[0051] Similarly, the set of acts of the non-transitory, computer-readable medium having stored thereon program instructions executable by the processor may include any of the steps found in Figure 6. Figure 6 depicts a flowchart representing program instructions executable by a processor (e.g., of a controller) for dynamically charging energy storage devices using both a high voltage charger and isolated low' voltage chargers independently connected with each energy storage device, according to exemplary embodiments.

[0052] Figure 7 is a simplified block diagram showing some of the components of an example computing device 700. In some embodiments, a controller (e.g., the controller 110 shown and described w ith reference to Figure 1 or the controller 210 shown and described with reference to Figure 2) may include the computing device 700. The computing device 700 may correspond to a computing device configured to perform additional functions (e.g.. in communication with one or more other computing devices using a w eb browser and / or an application). In various embodiments, the computing device 700 may be a mobile computing device (e.g., a smartphone), a desktop computing device, a laptop computing device, a tablet computing device, or a wearable computing device (e.g., a smartwatch or a smart wristband). As illustrated in Figure 7, the computing device 700 may include a network interface 702, a user interface 704, a processor 706, and data storage 708. The network interface 702, the user interface 704, the processor 706, and / or the data storage 708 may be communicatively linked together by a bus 710 (e.g., an electrical interconnect defined on one or more printed circuit boards).

[0053] The netw ork interface 702 may be used by the computing device 700 to communicate with other computing devices over one or more networks (e.g., the public Internet). In some embodiments, the network interface 702 may include a wired interface (e.g.. Ethernet). Additionally or alternatively, the network interface 702 may include a wireless interface, such as WIFI. Other interfaces may be included in the netw ork interface 702 and are contemplated herein.

[0054] The user interface 704 may function to allow- computing device 700 to receiveinput from and / or provide output to a user. As such, the user interface 704 may include inputs (e.g., a keypad, a keyboard, a touch-screen, a computer mouse, a microphone, a microphone jack, etc.) and / or outputs (e.g., a cathode-ray tube (CRT) display, a liquid-crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting diode (LED) display, a speaker, a speaker jack, headphones, a headphone jack, etc.).

[0055] The processor 706 may include one or more general purpose processors (e.g., microprocessors) and / or one or more special -purpose processors (e.g., graphics processing units (GPUs) or application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs)). In some embodiments, for example, the processor 106 may include special -purpose processors capable of generating a machine-learned model and / or using a machine-learned model to perform analyses as described herein.

[0056] The data storage 708 may include one or more volatile and / or non-volatile memories. For example, the data storage may include a RAM, a ROM, a hard drive, a solid state drive, etc. In some embodiments, the data storage 708 may be partially or wholly integrated with the processor 706 (e.g., a level 1 (LI) cache or a level 2 (L2) cache within a central processing unit). The data storage 108 may include removable components (e.g.. a flash drive) and / or non-removable components (e.g., a ROM integrated with a motherboard).

[0057] The processor 706 may be configured to execute instructions 718 (e.g., compiled or non-compiled program logic and / or machine code) stored in the data storage 708 to carry out the methods described herein. Hence, the data storage 708 may include a non- transitory computer-readable medium, having stored thereon program instructions that, when executed by the processor 706, cause the processor 706 to cany' out any of the methods, processes, or operations disclosed in this specification and / or the accompanying drawings. In some embodiments, the processor 706 may use the application data 712 while executing the instructions 718.

[0058] In some embodiments, the instructions 718 may include an operating system 722 (e.g., an operating system kernel, device driver(s), and / or other modules) and one or more applications 720 (e.g., mobile applications, sometimes referred to asL‘apps”). As described above, the processor 706 may access the application data 712 when executing the applications 720.

[0059] The applications 720 may communicate with the operating system 722 through one or more application programming interfaces (APIs). These APIs may facilitate,for instance, the applications 720 reading and / or writing the application data 712, transmitting or receiving information via the network interface 702, receiving and / or displaying information on the user interface 704, etc.

[0060] Additionally, the applications 720 may be downloadable to the computing device 700 through one or more online application stores or application markets (e.g., using the network interface 702). However, application programs can also be installed on the computing device 700 in other ways, such as via a web browser or through a physical interface (e.g., a universal serial bus (USB) port) on the computing device 700.

[0061] While many of the techniques and functions described herein may be performed by the processor 706 executing one of the applications 720, it understood that other ways for the computing device 700 to perform such techniques and functions are also possible and are contemplated herein. For example, some or all of the calculations may be performed remotely (e.g., on a server computing device). Such an embodiment may be referred to as a “browser-based app’' when the computing device 700 provides data (e.g.. application data 712) to a different computing device for analysis using a web browser. Additionally or alternatively, such an interaction between the computing device 700 and another computing device may be performed using an API or a browser-based language (e.g., JavaScript).

[0062] Thus, in various embodiments, the present disclosure provides a system. The system includes an electrical circuit that includes a high voltage charger, a first energy storage device, a second energy storage device, and a controller. The controller is configured to insert the first energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger, cause the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the first energy storage device so that the first energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger, insert the second energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger, cause the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger, and cause the high voltage charger to charge the first energy storage device and the second energy storage device when connected in series with the high voltage charger in the electrical circuit.

[0063] In various such embodiments of the system, the system further includes a first low voltage charger connected to the first energy storage device. The controller is further configured to cause the first low voltage charger to charge or discharge the first energy storage device when the first energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger. The system also includes a second low voltage charger connected to the second energy storage device. The controller is further configured to cause the second low voltage charger to charge or discharge the second energy storage device when the second energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger.

[0064] In various such embodiments of the system, the first low voltage charger is connected in isolated series with the first energy storage device and the second low voltage charger is connected in isolated series with the second energy storage device.

[0065] In various such embodiments of the system, the first low voltage charger, the second low voltage charger, and the high voltage charger are connected in parallel.

[0066] In various such embodiments of the method of the system, the controller is further configured to cause the high voltage charger to charge or discharge the first low voltage charger and the second low voltage charger when connected in parallel with the high voltage charger in the electrical circuit.

[0067] In various such embodiments of the system, the first low voltage charger and the second low voltage charger each include a bidirectional balance charger.

[0068] In various such embodiments of the system, the system further includes a first connection circuit such that inserting the first energy7storage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger includes positioning the first connection circuit in a first connecting position and causing the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the first energy storage device so that the first energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger includes positioning the first connection circuit in a first bypassing position. The system also includes a second connection circuit such that inserting the second energystorage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger includes positioning the second connection circuit in a second connecting position and causing the electrical circuit to electrically7bypass the second energy storage device so that the secondenergy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger includes positioning the second connection circuit in a second bypassing position.

[0069] In various such embodiments of the system, the first connection circuit includes a first contactor and the second connection circuit includes a second contactor.

[0070] In various such embodiments of the system, the first energy storage device and the second energy storage device each include a lithium-ion battery'.

[0071] In various other embodiments, the disclosure further provides a method, the method including determining, by a controller, a first voltage level of a first energy storage device of an electrical circuit, determining, by the controller, a second voltage level of a second energy storage device of the electrical circuit, comparing, by the controller, the first voltage level and the second voltage level to a set of threshold voltage levels, determining, by the controller, that the second voltage level is greater than a maximum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels, based on the determination that the second voltage level is greater than the maximum threshold voltage level, inserting, by the controller, the first energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with a high voltage charger and causing, by the controller, the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger, and causing, by the controller, the high voltage charger to charge the first energy storage device.

[0072] In various such embodiments of the method, the method further includes determining, by the controller, a third voltage level of a third energy' storage device, comparing, by the controller, the third voltage level to the set of threshold voltage levels, determining, by the controller, that the third voltage level is less than a minimum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels, and based on the determination that the third voltage level is less than the minimum threshold voltage level, causing, by the controller, the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the third energy storage device so that the third energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger.

[0073] In various such embodiments of the method, the method further includes causing, by the controller, a second low voltage charger connected to the second energy storage device to discharge the second energy' storage device until the second voltage level isless than the maximum threshold voltage level or causing, by the controller, a third low voltage charger connected to the third energy storage device to charge the third energy storage device until the third voltage level is greater than the minimum threshold voltage level.

[0074] In various such embodiments of the method, the method further includes based on the determination that the second voltage level is less than the maximum threshold voltage level, inserting, by the controller, the second energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger or based on the determination that the third voltage level is greater than the minimum threshold voltage level, inserting, by the controller, the third energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger.

[0075] In various such embodiments of the method, inserting, by the controller, the first energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with a high voltage charger includes positioning a first connection circuit connected to the first energy storage device in a first connecting position and causing, by the controller, the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy' storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger includes positioning a second connection circuit connected to the second energy storage device in a second bypassing position.

[0076] In various such embodiments of the method, such that the first connection circuit includes a first contactor and the second connection circuit includes a second contactor.

[0077] In various other embodiments, the disclosure further provides a non-transitory. computer-readable medium having stored thereon program instructions that, upon execution by a processor, cause performance of a set of acts that includes determining a first voltage level of a first energy storage device, determining a second voltage level of a second energy storage device, comparing the first voltage level and the second voltage level to a set of threshold voltage levels, determining that the second voltage level is greater than a maximum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels, based on the determination that the second voltage level is greater than the maximum threshold voltage level, inserting the first energy' storage device into an electrical circuit in series with a high voltage charger and causing the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so thatthe second energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger, and causing the high voltage charger to charge the first energy storage device.

[0078] In various such embodiments of the non- transitory, computer-readable medium having stored thereon program instructions that, upon execution by a processor, cause performance of a set of acts, the set of acts further includes determining a third voltage level of a third energy storage device, comparing the third voltage level to the set of threshold voltage levels, determining that the third voltage level is less than a minimum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels, and based on the determination that the third voltage level is less than the minimum threshold voltage level, causing the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the third energy' storage device so that the third energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger.

[0079] In various such embodiments of the non- transitory, computer-readable medium having stored thereon program instructions that, upon execution by a processor, cause performance of a set of acts, the set of acts further includes causing a second low voltage charger connected to the second energy storage device to discharge the second energy' storage device until the second voltage level is less than the maximum threshold voltage level or causing a third low voltage charger connected to the third energy storage device to charge the third energy storage device until the third voltage level is greater than the minimum threshold voltage level.

[0080] In various such embodiments of the non- transitory, computer-readable medium having stored thereon program instructions that, upon execution by a processor, cause performance of a set of acts, the set of acts further includes based on the determination that the second voltage level is less than the maximum threshold voltage level, inserting the second energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger and based on the determination that the third voltage level is greater than the minimum threshold voltage level, inserting the third energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger.

[0081] In various such embodiments of the non-transitory, computer-readable medium having stored thereon program instructions that, upon execution by a processor, cause performance of a set of acts, inserting the first energy storage device into the electricalcircuit in series with a high voltage charger includes positioning a first connection circuit connected to the first energy storage device in a first connecting position and causing the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger includes positioning a second connection circuit connected to the second energy storage device in a second bypassing position.

[0082] While various aspects and implementations have been disclosed herein, other aspects and implementations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and implementations disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope being indicated by the following claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. Also, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only, and is not intended to be limiting.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A system comprising: an electrical circuit comprising a high voltage charger; a first energy storage device; a second energy storage device; and a controller configured to: insert the first energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger; cause the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the first energy storage device so that the first energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger; insert the second energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger; cause the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger; and cause the high voltage charger to charge the first energy storage device and the second energy storage device when connected in series with the high voltage charger in the electrical circuit.

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising: a first low voltage charger connected to the first energy storage device, wherein the controller is further configured to: cause the first low voltage charger to charge or discharge the first energy storage device when the first energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger; and a second low voltage charger connected to the second energy storage device, wherein the controller is further configured to: cause the second low voltage charger to charge or discharge the second energy storage device when the second energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the first low voltage charger is connected in isolated series with the first energy storage device, and wherein the second low voltage charger is connected in isolated series with the second energy storage device.

4. The system of claim 2, wherein the first low voltage charger, the second low voltage charger, and the high voltage charger are connected in parallel.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the controller is further configured to: cause the high voltage charger to charge or discharge the first low voltage charger and the second low voltage charger when connected in parallel with the high voltage charger in the electrical circuit.

6. The system of any of claims 2-5, wherein the first low voltage charger and the second low voltage charger each comprise a bidirectional balance charger.

7. The system of any of claims 1-6. further comprising: a first connection circuit, wherein inserting the first energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger comprises positioning the first connection circuit in a first connecting position, and wherein causing the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the first energy storage device so that the first energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger comprises positioning the first connection circuit in a first bypassing position; and a second connection circuit, wherein inserting the second energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger comprises positioning the second connection circuit in a second connecting position, and wherein causing the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger comprises positioning the second connection circuit in a second bypassing position.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the first connection circuit comprises a first contactor, and wherein the second connection circuit comprises a second contactor.

9. The system of any of claims 1-8, wherein the first energy storage device and the second energy storage device each comprise a lithium-ion battery.

10. A method comprising: determining, by a controller, a first voltage level of a first energy7storage device of an electrical circuit; determining, by the controller, a second voltage level of a second energy storage device of the electrical circuit; comparing, by the controller, the first voltage level and the second voltage level to a set of threshold voltage levels; determining, by the controller, that the second voltage level is greater than a maximum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels; based on the determination that the second voltage level is greater than the maximum threshold voltage level, inserting, by the controller, the first energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with a high voltage charger and causing, by the controller, the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger; and causing, by the controller, the high voltage charger to charge the first energy storage device.1 1 . The method of claim 10, further comprising: determining, by the controller, a third voltage level of a third energy' storage device; comparing, by the controller, the third voltage level to the set of threshold voltage levels; determining, by the controller, that the third voltage level is less than a minimum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels; and based on the determination that the third voltage level is less than the minimum threshold voltage level, causing, by the controller, the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the third energy storage device so that the third energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising:causing, by the controller, a second low voltage charger connected to the second energy storage device to discharge the second energy storage device until the second voltage level is less than the maximum threshold voltage level; or causing, by the controller, a third low voltage charger connected to the third energy storage device to charge the third energy' storage device until the third voltage level is greater than the minimum threshold voltage level.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising: based on the determination that the second voltage level is less than the maximum threshold voltage level, inserting, by the controller, the second energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger; or based on the determination that the third voltage level is greater than the minimum threshold voltage level, inserting, by the controller, the third energy' storage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger.

14. The method of any of claims 10-13, wherein inserting, by the controller, the first energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with a high voltage charger comprises positioning a first connection circuit connected to the first energy storage device in a first connecting position, and wherein causing, by the controller, the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger comprises positioning a second connection circuit connected to the second energy' storage device in a second bypassing position.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the first connection circuit comprises a first contactor, and wherein the second connection circuit comprises a second contactor.

16. A non-transitory, computer-readable medium having stored thereon program instructions that, upon execution by a processor, cause performance of a set of acts comprising: determining a first voltage level of a first energy' storage device; determining a second voltage level of a second energy' storage device;comparing the first voltage level and the second voltage level to a set of threshold voltage levels; determining that the second voltage level is greater than a maximum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels; based on the determination that the second voltage level is greater than the maximum threshold voltage level, inserting the first energy storage device into an electrical circuit in series with a high voltage charger and causing the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger; and causing the high voltage charger to charge the first energy storage device.

17. The non-transitory, computer-readable medium of claim 16, wherein the set of acts further comprises: determining a third voltage level of a third energy storage device; comparing the third voltage level to the set of threshold voltage levels; determining that the third voltage level is less than a minimum threshold voltage level in the set of threshold voltage levels; and based on the determination that the third voltage level is less than the minimum threshold voltage level, causing the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the third energy storage device so that the third energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger.

18. The non-transitory, computer-readable medium of claim 17, wherein the set of acts further comprises: causing a second low voltage charger connected to the second energy storage device to discharge the second energy storage device until the second voltage level is less than the maximum threshold voltage level; or causing a third low voltage charger connected to the third energy storage device to charge the third energy storage device until the third voltage level is greater than the minimum threshold voltage level.

19. The non-transitory, computer-readable medium of claim 18. wherein the set of acts further comprises: based on the determination that the second voltage level is less than the maximum threshold voltage level, inserting the second energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger; and based on the determination that the third voltage level is greater than the minimum threshold voltage level, inserting the third energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with the high voltage charger.

20. The non-transitory. computer-readable medium of any of claims 16-19, wherein inserting the first energy storage device into the electrical circuit in series with a high voltage charger comprises positioning a first connection circuit connected to the first energy storage device in a first connecting position, and wherein causing the electrical circuit to electrically bypass the second energy storage device so that the second energy storage device is not connected to the high voltage charger comprises positioning a second connection circuit connected to the second energy storage device in a second bypassing position.T1

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