System and method for balancing a plurality of cells in a battery pack

Abstract

The system (115) includes a plurality of sensors (210) for measuring a plurality of operating parameters of each of the plurality of cells (110). The system (115) further includes a switching unit (215) and a control unit (235) electrically and communicatively coupled to each of the plurality of cells (110). The control unit (235) determines an energy value (E) of each of the cells (110) based on the plurality of operating parameters of the cells (110). (cell-n) ) and determine the energy delta (D n ) and then determining a time period (t n ), the switching unit (215) is selectively operated so that each of the cells (110) is in an ideal operating condition and the plurality of cells (110) is balanced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery pack, and more particularly, to a system and method for balancing a plurality of cells in a battery pack.

Background Art

[0002] Electrical energy stored in devices such as batteries has recently been used as an energy source in applications such as transportation and communication. These batteries are interconnected in one of series, parallel, and combinations thereof, and include a plurality of cells arranged in a battery pack. The number of cells and the capacity of the cells vary depending on the application for which the battery pack is used.

[0003] During the manufacture of the cells and the assembly of the cells in the battery pack, each of the cells is graded based on, but not limited to, one of voltage and capacity. Therefore, the rated voltage of each cell arranged in the battery pack is the same. However, during the operation of the battery pack, the state of charge (SOC) of each cell in the battery pack may be different. This phenomenon of variation in the voltage of the cells is known as cell unbalancing. The structural arrangement of the cells where the cells in various locations in the battery pack are exposed to various levels of heat, the electrochemical reactions in the cells, etc. cause the cell imbalance.

[0004] If the balance of the cells in the battery pack is poor, the battery pack operates with a capacity less than the capacity for which the battery pack was designed, so the operation of the battery pack becomes inefficient and the life of the battery pack is shortened. In order to achieve the maximum efficiency of the battery pack, it is necessary to maintain the SOC level and the voltage level of each of the plurality of cells at the same level.

[0005] Cell balancing is achieved by either active balancing, passive balancing, or a combination thereof. Active balancing is a balancing technique that redistributes electrical energy from each of a plurality of cells during charging and discharging cycles of the plurality of cells. More specifically, in active balancing, the battery pack includes components such as, but not limited to, inductors, capacitors, and combinations thereof electrically coupled to the plurality of cells. These components help transfer energy from overcharged cells to undercharged cells, thereby maintaining the state of charge (SOC) and voltage levels of each of the plurality of cells at the same level. Further, the active balancing technique uses a bidirectional flyback converter, a DC / DC converter, or a buck-boost converter for each cell for either power transfer or power reception according to the SOC and voltage levels of each of the plurality of cells.

[0006] However, the use of additional components reduces the compactness of the battery pack and further increases the cost of the battery pack. Further, since each of the plurality of cells uses a flyback converter, the battery pack is susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI), and additional hardware components are required to ensure the robustness of the battery pack.

[0007] To balance each of the plurality of cells of the battery pack through passive balancing, the battery pack is provided with components such as resistors. Therefore, the excess energy from the overcharged cell is dissipated in the form of heat. Since the excess energy is dissipated in the form of heat and not used efficiently, the battery pack is considered inefficient. Furthermore, due to the heat dissipated within the battery pack, the battery pack is designed to be able to handle the excess heat. Additionally, in order to continuously monitor the battery pack and warn the user in case of an emergency, additional components such as sensors need to be provided within the battery pack. Moreover, the time taken to balance the plurality of cells through passive balancing is longer compared to the time taken to balance each of the plurality of cells through active balancing.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0008] Considering the above, an alternative system is needed to balance the plurality of cells of the battery pack and ensure efficient operation of the battery pack.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0009] One or more embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for balancing a plurality of cells within a battery pack.

[0010] In one aspect of the present invention, a system for balancing a plurality of cells disposed within a battery pack is disclosed. The system includes a plurality of sensors electrically coupled to the plurality of cells. The plurality of sensors are configured to measure a plurality of operating parameters of each of the plurality of cells. The system further includes a switching unit electrically coupled to each of the plurality of cells, and a control unit communicatively coupled to each of the plurality of sensors and the switching unit. The control unit is configured to determine an energy value for each of the plurality of cells based on data regarding the plurality of operating parameters of each of the plurality of cells. The control unit determines an energy delta for each of the plurality of cells based on the energy values. Energy delta (D n ) is the difference between the energy value (E (cell-n) ) of each of a plurality of cells (110) and the minimum energy value (E (cell-min) ) of at least one of the plurality of cells (110). The control unit, which is the difference between the energy value (E (cell-n) ) of each cell and the minimum energy value (E (cell-min) ), is further configured to selectively operate the switching unit over a time period. The time period is determined based on the energy delta of each of the plurality of cells so as to enable transfer of energy from at least one of the plurality of cells to a storage unit. After the transfer of energy, each of the plurality of cells is in an ideal operating state and the plurality of cells are balanced.

[0011] In another aspect of the present invention, a method for balancing a plurality of cells disposed within a battery pack is disclosed. The method includes the step of determining an energy value for each of the plurality of cells. The energy value is determined based on data regarding the plurality of operating parameters of each of the plurality of cells. The method further includes the step of determining an energy delta for each of the plurality of cells based on the energy values. Energy delta (D n ) is the difference between the energy value (E (cell-n) ) of each of a plurality of cells (110) and the minimum energy value (E (cell-min) ) of at least one of the plurality of cells (110).Based on the energy delta, the control unit determines a time period for selectively operating the switching unit. Accordingly, the switching unit enables the transfer of energy from at least one of the plurality of cells to the storage unit. After the transfer of energy, each of the plurality of cells is in an ideal operating state and the plurality of cells are balanced.

[0012] In another aspect of the present invention, a battery pack is disclosed. The battery pack includes a plurality of cells disposed within the battery pack. The battery pack further includes a plurality of sensors electrically coupled to the plurality of cells for measuring a plurality of operating parameters of each of the plurality of cells, and a switching unit electrically coupled to each of the plurality of cells. The battery pack further includes a control unit communicatively coupled to each of the plurality of sensors and the switching unit. The control unit is configured to receive data regarding the operating parameters of each of the plurality of cells from the plurality of sensors. The control unit further determines a plurality of energy values based on the data regarding the plurality of operating parameters of each of the plurality of cells. After determining the energy values, the control unit selects the minimum energy value from the plurality of determined energy values. Thereafter, the control unit determines the energy delta of each of the plurality of cells. The energy delta is the difference between the energy value of each cell and the minimum energy value. Based on the energy delta, the control unit determines a time period for selectively operating the switching unit. Accordingly, the switching unit enables the transfer of energy from at least one of the plurality of cells to the storage unit. After the transfer of energy, each of the plurality of cells is in an ideal operating state and the plurality of cells are balanced.

[0013] Other features and aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the features and advantages described in this summary and the following detailed description do not cover all aspects, and in particular, considering the drawings, specification, and claims of this document, many additional features and advantages will become apparent to those skilled in the relevant art. Furthermore, the language used in this document is mainly selected for readability and educational purposes and may not be selected to describe or limit the subject matter of the present invention. It is important to refer to the claims necessary to determine such subject matter of the present invention.

[0014] Reference is made to embodiments of the present invention, examples of which may be shown in the accompanying drawings. These drawings are for illustrative purposes only and not for limitation. The accompanying drawings incorporated herein and constituting a part thereof illustrate one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter and, together with the description, explain various embodiments of the disclosed subject matter for illustrative purposes. Furthermore, the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and any values or dimensions in the accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and may or may not represent actual or preferred values or dimensions. The present invention is generally described in the context of these embodiments, but it should be understood that the scope of the present invention is not intended to be limited to these specific embodiments.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0015]

Figure 1

Figure 2

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Figure 4A

Figure 4B

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Figure 4F

Figure 5

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] Next, specific embodiments or features are referred to in detail, and examples thereof are shown in the accompanying drawings. Corresponding or similar reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or corresponding parts, wherever possible. References to the various elements described herein are made collectively or individually where there may be multiple elements of the same type. However, such references are merely illustrative in nature. It should be noted that references to singular elements may be construed as relating to the plural, and vice versa, without limiting the scope of the invention to the exact number or type of such elements, unless explicitly stated in the appended claims. Further, relational terms such as first and second may be used to distinguish one entity from another without necessarily meaning an actual relationship or the relationship between such entities.

[0017] FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an environment 100 in which a system 115 for balancing a plurality of cells 110 disposed within a battery pack 105 is implemented, according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. In the illustrated embodiment, the battery pack 105 is used as an energy source in applications such as transportation, telecommunications, and household appliances. Although the illustrated embodiment shows a single battery pack 105, it should be understood that multiple battery packs may be used according to requirements without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0018] The battery pack 105 includes a plurality of cells 110 disposed therein. Each of the plurality of cells 110 is electrically coupled to each other in one of a series connection, a parallel connection, and combinations thereof. The battery pack 105 further includes a plurality of arrays (not shown) that are electrically coupled to each other. Each of the plurality of arrays includes a plurality of cells 110 that are electrically coupled to each other. The capacity of each of the plurality of cells 110 is determined by one of user requirements, the application in which the battery pack 105 is used, and combinations thereof.

[0019] In one embodiment, each of the plurality of cells 110 is one of, but not limited to, a lithium-ion (Li-ion), a lead-acid battery gel, and a nickel-metal hydride battery. In an alternative embodiment, the composition of each of the plurality of cells 110 is a lithium or lithium polymer cell (referred to as "lithium") combined with a nickel hydrate battery cell. In an alternative embodiment, any suitable battery cell composition including, but not limited to, lithium-ion, zinc-air, zinc oxide, overcharged zinc oxide, and fuel cells may be used.

[0020] Each of the plurality of cells 110 is further electrically coupled to a system 115. In the illustrated and preferred embodiment, the system 115 is disposed within the battery pack 105. In an alternative embodiment, the system 115 is disposed at a location remotely accessible by a user. The system 115 receives data regarding a plurality of operating parameters of each of the plurality of cells 110. The plurality of operating parameters is one of, but not limited to, the current, voltage, and temperature of each of the plurality of cells. In one embodiment, the battery pack 105 includes a battery telematics unit 405 (as shown in FIG. 4) that receives and temporarily stores data regarding a plurality of operating parameters of each of the plurality of cells 110.

[0021] Based on the plurality of operating parameters, the system 115 enables the transfer of energy from at least one of the plurality of cells 110 to a storage unit 120. The storage unit 120 is electrically coupled to each of the plurality of cells 110 and is communicatively coupled to the system 115. In one embodiment, when the plurality of cells 110 are connected to each other in series, the number of storage units 120 is equal to the number of cells connected in series within the battery pack 105. In other embodiments, when the plurality of cells 110 are connected in parallel, a single storage unit 120 is sufficient. The storage unit 120 is one of, but not limited to, an ultracapacitor, a pseudocapacitor, a supercapacitor, an electric double layer capacitor (DLC), and a battery pack.

[0022] After the energy transfer, each of the plurality of cells 110 is in an ideal operating state, and the balance of the plurality of cells 110 is achieved. The ideal operating state of each of the plurality of cells 110 is achieved when the voltage delta of each of the plurality of cells 110 is below a threshold value. The structural and operational features of the system 115, as well as the method of balancing the plurality of cells 110, will be described in detail with respect to the following drawings.

[0023] The battery pack 105 is further electrically coupled to the load 125. As described above, the battery pack 105 is used as an energy source in applications such as, but not limited to, transportation and telecommunications. Thus, when the battery pack 105 is employed in the transportation sector, the load 125 is a plurality of components of an electric vehicle. Similarly, when the battery pack is used in the telecommunications sector, the load 125 is, but not limited to, one of the telecommunications towers. Further, the battery pack 105 is configured to be removably coupled to the charging unit 130 to charge each of the plurality of cells 110 disposed within the battery pack 105.

[0024] The system 115 further transmits data regarding a plurality of operating parameters of the battery pack 105 to the server 135 via the network 140. In one embodiment, following the transmission of data related to a plurality of parameters from the system 115 to the server 135, a copy of the relevant data is automatically made from the system 115. By doing so, it is ensured that the system 115 is not accumulated with previously stored data that has already been transmitted to the server 135. Advantageously, the system 115 is not burdened with a large amount of data exceeding the capacity of the system 115, thereby ensuring that an effective monitoring service is provided and improving the operating efficiency of the system 115. It can be understood that the server 135 can be implemented in various computing systems such as mainframe computers, network servers, clouds, and the like.

[0025] Server 135 communicates with battery pack 105 via network 140. In one embodiment, a Secure Hardware Extension (SHE) unit is embedded within battery pack 105. The SHE unit ensures secure data communication between system 115 and server 135, thereby preventing third-party access to the data. In one embodiment, network 140 can include, but is not limited to, wired and / or wireless connections such as a Local Area Network (LAN), Bluetooth®, Near Field Communication (NFC), infrared, WIFI, GPRS, LTE, edge, etc.

[0026] Furthermore, system 115 communicates with user device 145 via network 140. Thus, user device 145 receives notifications regarding multiple operating parameters of battery pack 105 and multiple cells 110. In certain embodiments, user device 145 enables the user to manually switch off battery pack 105 from a remote location in case of an emergency. Further, user device 145 is communicatively coupled to server 135. Additionally, one of server 135 and system 115 is configured to provide the user with a periodic report regarding the health of battery pack 105. User device 145 is one of, but not limited to, a mobile phone, a portable computer, a personal digital assistant, a handheld device, a laptop computer, and a display unit in an electric vehicle.

[0027] Referring to FIG. 2, FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of system 115 for balancing at least one of multiple cells 110 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. System 115 is coupled to each of the multiple cells 110 disposed within battery pack 105. System 115 assists in transferring energy from at least one of the multiple cells 110 to at least one of storage units 120.

[0028] As described above, the battery pack 105 includes a plurality of cells 110. However, for purposes of explanation, the system 115 is described herein with respect to a "single cell 110" of an embodiment as shown in FIG. 2 and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the plurality of cells 110 are hereinafter referred to as "cells 110".

[0029] The system 115 includes a plurality of sensors 210 hereinafter referred to as "sensors 210". The sensors 210 are electrically coupled to the cells 110 to measure a plurality of operating parameters of the cells 110. The sensors 210 are coupled to the cells 110 wirelessly and wired, depending on the use of the sensors 210. The sensors 210 include, but are not limited to, current sensors, voltage sensors, impedance sensors, and temperature sensors. The plurality of operating parameters correspond to, but are not limited to, the current, voltage, temperature, and state of charge (SOC) of the cells 110.

[0030] The system 115 further includes a switching unit 215 electrically coupled to the cells 110. More specifically, the anode of the cell 110 is electrically coupled to a component 220 of the switching unit 215. The component 220 assists in maintaining one of the unidirectional and controlled bidirectional energy flows from the anode of the cell 110 to the component 220 and restricts the flow in the opposite direction. In one embodiment, the component 220 is a diode. In an alternative embodiment, the component 220 is a metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET).

[0031] In the illustrated embodiment, switching unit 215 includes a current control component 225 coupled to component 220. Current control component 225 assists in protecting system 115 from current surges. A potential difference occurs during the transfer of energy from cell 110 to storage unit 120. In some cases, storage unit 120 may be damaged, such as by a short circuit. In such cases, current control component 220 preferably protects cell 110 and then protects battery pack 105 from damage. In one embodiment, current control component 225 is, but is not limited to, one of the field effect transistors (FETs). In other embodiments, system 115 is provided independently of current control component 225.

[0032] Switching unit 215 further includes a switch 230. Switch 230 is configured to perform one of permitting and preventing the transfer of energy from cell 110 to storage unit 120. Switch 230 is, but is not limited to, one of an electromechanical switch, a manual switch, a toggle switch, a metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET), an insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT), and a junction field effect transistor (JFET).

[0033] Switching unit 215, including component 220, current control component 225, and switch 230, is then coupled to storage unit 120. Thus, cell 110 is electrically coupled to at least one storage unit 120 via switching unit 215. Storage unit 120 is, but is not limited to, one of an ultracapacitor, a pseudocapacitor, a supercapacitor, a double layer capacitor (DLC), and a battery pack.

[0034] System 115 further includes a control unit 235. The control unit 235 may include at least one processor 240, an input / output (I / O) interface unit 245, and a memory 250. The at least one processor 240 may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, state machines, logic circuits, and / or any device that operates signals based on operational instructions. Among other functions, the at least one processor 240 is configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in the memory 250.

[0035] The I / O interface unit 245 may include various software and hardware interfaces, such as a web interface, a graphical user interface, a light-emitting diode (LED), etc. The I / O interface unit 245 may enable a user to interact with the control unit 235 directly or via the user device 145. Further, the I / O interface unit 245 may enable the control unit 235 to communicate with other computing devices such as the server 135 and an external data server (not shown). The I / O interface 245 may facilitate multiple communications within a wide variety of network and protocol types, including, for example, wired networks such as LAN, cable, and wireless networks such as WLAN, cellular, or satellite. In one embodiment, the I / O interface unit 245 may include one or more ports for connecting several devices to each other or to other servers.

[0036] The memory 250 may include any computer-readable medium known in the art, including, for example, volatile memory such as static random access memory (SRAM) and dynamic random access memory (DRAM), and / or non-volatile memory such as read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable ROM, flash memory, hard disk, optical disk, and magnetic tape.

[0037] The control unit 235 is communicatively coupled to the sensor 210 to receive data regarding a plurality of operating parameters of the cell 110. The control unit 235 is further communicatively coupled to the switching unit 215. More specifically, the control unit 235 is one of those electrically and communicatively coupled to the switch 230 of the switching unit 215. The control unit 235 is configured to selectively operate the switch 230 so as to enable the transfer of energy from the cell 110 to the storage unit 120. The action and operation of the control unit 235 for balancing the cell 110 will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 3.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 3, FIG. 3 shows a block diagram 300 of the battery pack 105 including a system 115 for balancing a plurality of cells 110 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. As described above, the battery pack 105 includes a plurality of cells 110. Each of the plurality of cells 110 is electrically coupled to each other in one of a series connection, a parallel connection, and combinations thereof.

[0039] For purposes of description and explanation, the plurality of cells 110 will be described herein with respect to a first cell 110a, a second cell 110b, a third cell 110c, and a fourth cell 110d. However, it should be understood that the plurality of cells 110 may include a number of cells additional to the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d, depending on the requirements of the application, and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0040] According to the illustrated embodiment, each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a - d is coupled to each other in a series connection. In an alternative embodiment, each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a - d may be coupled to each other in one of a parallel connection and a combination of a series connection and a parallel connection.

[0041] Since each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a - d is connected in series with each other, the battery pack 105 similarly includes a first storage unit 120a, a second storage unit 120b, a third storage unit 120c, and a fourth storage unit 120d that are connected in series with each other. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first, second, third, and fourth storage units 120a - d is a supercapacitor. In an alternative embodiment, each of the first, second, third, and fourth storage units 120a - d is an ultracapacitor, a pseudocapacitor, a double - layer capacitor (DLC), and a battery pack.

[0042] Furthermore, as previously described with reference to FIG. 2, the cell 110 is electrically coupled to at least one storage unit 120 via a switching unit 215. Thus, the battery pack 105 includes a first switching unit 215a, a second switching unit 215b, a third switching unit 215c, and a fourth switching unit 215d.

[0043] Referring to the illustrated embodiment in FIG. 3, the first cell 110a is electrically coupled to the first storage unit 120a via the first switching unit 215a, the second cell 110b is electrically coupled to the second storage unit 120b via the second switching unit 215b, the third cell 110c is electrically coupled to the third storage unit 120c via the third switching unit 215c, and the fourth cell 110d is electrically coupled to the fourth storage unit 120d via the fourth switching unit 215d.

[0044] The battery pack 105 further includes a plurality of sensors 210 (shown in FIG. 2) communicatively coupled to each of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d via a first communication line 320a, a second communication line 320b, a third communication line 320c, and a fourth communication line 320d. The plurality of sensors 210 are configured to measure a plurality of operating parameters of each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a-d. The plurality of measured operating parameters are then transmitted to the control unit 235 of the battery pack 105 via the first, second, third, and fourth communication lines 320a-d. In the illustrated embodiment, the control unit 235 is disposed within the battery pack 105. In an alternative embodiment, the control unit 235 may be disposed in a location that is remotely accessible by a user.

[0045] Upon receiving the plurality of operating parameters, the control unit 235 determines an energy value (E (cell-n) ) for each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a-d. The energy value (E (cell-n) ) for each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a-d is defined as the energy stored therein with respect to the capacity of each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a-d at a given point in time.

[0046] The energy value (E (cell-n) ) for each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a-d is equal to the ratio of the product of the nominal voltage, the SOC, and the capacity of each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a-d from 1 to 100. The energy value (E (cell-n) ) = {(nominal voltage (cell-n) ) * (SOC (cell-n) ) * (capacity (cell-n) )} / 100................ (Equation 1)

[0047] In one embodiment, the control unit 235, as defined by the user, at preset intervals, the energy value (E (cell-n)) is determined. In an alternative embodiment, the control unit 235 determines the energy value (E (cell-n) ) and continuously determines and monitors the energy value (E (cell-n) ) of each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a - d. In one embodiment, the control unit 235 determines the voltage and current of each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a - d based on the measured operating parameters. Thereafter, the control unit 235 maps the determined voltage values to the respective energy values according to an energy lookup table provided to the battery pack 105, thereby determining the energy value (E (cell-n) ) of each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a - d. In an alternative embodiment, the control unit 235 determines the energy value (E (cell-n) ) of each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a - d based on the Coulomb count of each of the energy values (E (cell-n) ) of each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a - d.

[0048] Subsequently, the control unit 235 compares the determined energy values (E (cell-min) ) of each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a - d with each other to select the minimum energy value (E (cell-n) ). The minimum energy value (E (cell-min) ) is the minimum energy value of at least one of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a - d.

[0049] The control unit 235 further determines the energy delta (D n ) of each of the first cell 110a, second cell 110b, third cell 110c, and fourth cell 110d. The energy delta of each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a - d is the difference between the energy value (E (cell-n) ) of each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a - d and the minimum energy value (E (cell-min) ) of at least one of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a - d. Energy delta (D n ) = (E (cell-n) ) - (E (cell-min) )………………(Equation 2)

[0050] In calculating the energy delta (D n ) for each of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d, the control unit 235 determines the excess energy available in at least one of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d. The excess energy in at least one of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d is transmitted to one of the first, second, third, and fourth storage units 120a - d to balance the cells. Thereby, advantageously, the waste of energy in the form of heat is reduced.

[0051] Subsequently, the control unit 235 determines the voltage setpoint (VS (cap-n) ) for each of the first, second, third, and fourth storage units 120a - d based on the energy transmitted to each of the first, second, third, and fourth storage units 120a - d from at least one of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d. The voltage setpoint (VS (cap-n) ) is the predicted voltage level of each of the first, second, third, and fourth storage units 120a - d after receiving energy from at least one of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d respectively. The voltage setpoint (VS (cap-n) ) for each of the first, second, third, and fourth storage units 120a - d is the square root of twice the ratio of the energy value (E (cell-n) ) of each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a - d to the capacitance of each of the first, second, third, and fourth storage units 120a - d. Voltage setpoint (VS (cap-n)) = Sqrt{(2 * Energy delta (D n )* Energy value (E (cell-n) ) / Capacitance (C (cap-n) )}………………(Equation 3)

[0052] The control unit 235 further determines a time period (t n ) for operating the switching unit 215. More specifically, the control unit 235 determines the time periods (t n ) for operating the first, second, third, and fourth switches 230a - d provided in each of the first, second, third, and fourth switching units 215a - d, respectively. The control unit 235 determines the time periods (t n ) for operating each of the first, second, third, and fourth switches 230a - d based on the energy deltas (D n ) of each of the first cell 110a, second cell 110b, third cell 110c, and fourth cell 110d, respectively. More specifically, the control unit 235 determines the time period (t n ) by determining the time required to charge at least one of the first, second, third, and fourth storage units 120a - d. Therefore, the time period (t n ) is defined as the ratio of the product of the capacitance and the voltage set point (VS (cap-n) ) to the charging current for each of the first, second, third, and fourth storage units 120a - d with respect to the charging current. The time period (t n ) = {Capacitance (C (cap-n) ) * Voltage set point (VS (cap-n) )} / Charging current………………(Equation 4)

[0053] The charging current is a predefined value based on, but not limited to, the capacitance of the battery pack 105, the thickness of the PCB, and the rating of the switching unit 215.

[0054] In one embodiment, the control unit 235 calculates the energy delta (D n ) for each of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d, and further determines one of the equivalent resistance and the on-state resistance of each of the first, second, third, and fourth switches 230a-d based thereon.

[0055] The control unit 235 communicates with each of the first, second, third, and fourth switches 230a-d via the first communication line 325a, the second communication line 325b, the third communication line 325c, and the fourth communication line 325d. Thus, the control unit 235 selectively operates each of the first, second, third, and fourth switches 230a-d during a determined time period (t n ). In one embodiment, the control unit 235 selectively operates each of the first, second, third, and fourth switches 230a-d based on, but not limited to, one of the equivalent resistance and the on-state resistance of each of the first, second, third, and fourth switches 230a-d, the voltage set points (VS (cap-n) ) of each of the first, second, third, and fourth storage units 120a-d, and combinations thereof, during a determined time period (t n ).

[0056] Thus, excess energy from at least one of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d is transmitted to the first storage unit 120a, the second storage unit 120b, the third storage unit 120c, and the fourth storage unit 120d, respectively. The energy transmitted from at least one of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d is based on the energy delta of each of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d.

[0057] After the energy transfer, the states of each of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d are in an ideal operating state, and each of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d is considered to be balanced.

[0058] In other embodiments, the control unit 235 selectively operates each of the first, second, third, and fourth switches 230a-d based on the voltage delta of each of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d.

[0059] Thus, the ideal operating state of each of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d is achieved when the voltage delta (VD n ) of each of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d is less than a threshold value. The voltage delta (VD n ) is defined as the difference between the voltage value (V (cell-n) ) of each of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d and the minimum voltage value (V (cell-min) ) of at least one of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d. Voltage delta (VD n ) = V (cell-n) - V (cell-min) ………………(Equation 5)

[0060] The threshold value relates to a voltage range determined based on the type and composition of each of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d.

[0061] Furthermore, excess energy transmitted from at least one of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d to the first storage unit 120a, the second storage unit 120b, the third storage unit 120c, and the fourth storage unit 120d, respectively, is advantageously utilized to recharge at least one of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d, provide energy to the load 125, and perform one of their combinations. Further, surplus energy (excess energy) available in at least one of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d is reused and not wasted in the form of heat or the like. Therefore, the system 115 ensures optimal utilization of the energy available in the battery pack 105 and further ensures efficient utilization of the battery pack 105.

[0062] In this regard, the battery pack 105 includes a cell load switch 305, a DC connection switch 310, and a storage unit switch 315. Each of the cell load switch 305, the DC connection switch 310, and the storage unit switch 315 is communicably coupled to the control unit 235. When the cell load switch 305 and the storage unit switch 315 are actuated, at least one of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d is charged via the first storage unit 120a, the second storage unit 120b, the third storage unit 120c, and the fourth storage unit 120d. Further, when the cell load switch 305 and the DC connection switch 310 are actuated, each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a-d either discharges to provide energy to the load 125 or is charged by the charging unit 130. Further, when the DC connection switch 310 and the storage unit switch 315 are actuated, the energy stored in each of the first storage unit 120a, the second storage unit 120b, the third storage unit 120c, and the fourth storage unit 120d is used to provide energy to the load 125.

[0063] FIG. 4 shows an exemplary embodiment in which a control unit 410 of a system 405 of a battery pack 105 according to one or more embodiments of the present invention is located in a location remotely accessible by a user. As described above, the battery pack 105 includes a plurality of cells 110, a switching unit 215 coupled to the plurality of cells 110, a storage unit 120, and a plurality of sensors 210 coupled to the plurality of cells 110 and the storage unit 120. The operation and arrangement of the battery pack 105 with respect to the plurality of cells 110, the switching unit 215, the storage unit 120, and the plurality of sensors 210 are the same as those illustrated and described with respect to FIGS. 2 and 3. Accordingly, for the sake of brevity, the same will not be described again in the description of FIG. 4.

[0064] The battery pack 105 further communicates with a control unit 410 located remotely via a network 140. A plurality of sensors 210 transfer data regarding a plurality of operating parameters of the plurality of cells 110 via the network 140. Based on the plurality of operating parameters, the control unit 410 determines the energy value (E (cell-n) ), energy delta (D n ), voltage set point (VS (cap-n) ) of each of at least one storage unit 120, time period (t n ), and voltage value (V (cell-n) ) of each of the plurality of cells 110 based on each of the provided equations. Thereafter, the control unit 410 enables the transfer of energy from at least one of the plurality of cells 110 to at least one storage unit 120.

[0065] The control unit 410 of the illustrated embodiment is further configured to provide real-time information regarding the energy value (E (cell-n) ), energy delta (D n ), voltage set point (VS (cap-n) ) of each of at least one storage unit 120, time period (t n ) for balancing, and voltage value (V (cell-n) ) to the user. Accordingly, the control unit 410 communicates with the user's user device 145 via the server 135. In one embodiment, the control unit 410 provides real-time information to the user in the form of exemplary graphs as shown in FIGS. 4A - 4F. In other embodiments, the control unit 410 notifies the user on the user device 145 by means of a pop-up message or the like, thereby warning the user that the balance of the cells is poor. In other embodiments, the user can manually trigger the balance of at least one of the plurality of cells 110 via the control unit 410. Accordingly, the battery pack 105 is continuously monitored by the user.

[0066] The various embodiments disclosed herein should be construed in an illustrative and explanatory sense and should never be construed as limiting the present disclosure.

Industrial Applicability

[0067] The present disclosure provides a system 115 for balancing a plurality of cells 110 disposed within a battery pack 105. The system 115 enables balancing of the plurality of cells 110 during one of charging of the battery pack 105 and operation of the battery pack in real time. The battery pack 105 includes a plurality of cells 110 and at least one storage unit 120 disposed therein. The battery pack 105 further includes a system 115 for balancing the plurality of cells 110. The system 115 includes a control unit 235 for efficiently controlling a switching unit 215 to assist in transferring excess energy from the plurality of cells 110 to the storage unit 120.

[0068] The control unit 235 that communicates with the switching unit 215 assists in transferring excess energy in real time and thus guarantees continuous operation of the battery pack 105. The energy so transferred is utilized to recharge at least one of the plurality of cells 110, provide energy to the load 125, or one of their combinations. Thus, the system 115 advantageously minimizes waste of excess energy as heat and guarantees efficient operation of the battery pack 105. Since the excess energy is reused by the battery pack without dissipating excess heat, the battery pack 105 does not require additional components to compensate for excess heat. Further, since the system 115 does not utilize hardware components such as flyback converters that are susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) effects, the system 100 does not need to include additional hardware to guarantee the robustness of the battery pack 105, thereby guaranteeing the compactness of the battery pack 105.

[0069] Figure 5 is a flowchart of a method 500 for balancing a plurality of cells 110 disposed within a battery pack 105, according to one or more embodiments of the present invention. For purposes of description and explanation, method 500 will be described with respect to the embodiment shown in FIG. 3.

[0070] In step 502, the control unit 235 of the system 115 determines the energy value (E (cell-n) ) of each of the plurality of cells 110.

[0071] Referring to the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the battery pack 105 includes a plurality of sensors 210 for measuring a plurality of operating parameters of each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a-d. The plurality of sensors 210 further transmit data regarding the plurality of operating parameters to the control unit 235 via the first communication line 320a, the second communication line 320b, the third communication line 320c, and the fourth communication line 320d. The control unit 235 determines the energy value of each of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d with respect to the capacity of each of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d at a given point in time.

[0072] The energy value (E (cell-n) ) of each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a-d is equal to the ratio of the nominal voltage, the SOC, and the product of the capacities of each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a-d from 1 to 100. Thus, in accordance with Equation 1, the control unit 235 determines the energy value (E (cell-n) ) of each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a-d. Thus, the energy value (E (cell-1) ) of the first cell 110a is 2448 J, the energy value (E (cell-2 ) of the second cell 110b is 2880 J, the energy value (E (cell-3) ) of the third cell 110c is 2592 J, and the energy value (E of the fourth cell 110d(cell-4) ) is 2749 J.

[0073] Referring to the illustration as shown in FIG. 4A, the energy value (E (cell-n) ) is plotted along the Y-axis, and each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a - d is plotted along the X-axis. It is clear from the graph display in FIG. 4A that the energy values (E (cell-n) ) of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d are different. Thus, the control unit 235 determines that the battery pack 105 is out of balance. When determining the energy value (E (cell-n) ), the control unit 235 stores it in the memory 250 of the control unit 235. In one embodiment, the control unit 235 further transmits the energy value (E (cell-n) ) of each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a - d to the server 135, thereby improving the computational efficiency of the control unit 235.

[0074] Furthermore, the control unit 235 compares the energy value (E (cell-min) ) of each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a - d with one another to determine the minimum energy value and select the minimum energy value. The control unit 235 compares the energy value (E (cell-1~4) ) of the first cell 110a, the energy value (E (cell-1) ) of the second cell 110b, the energy value (E (cell-2) ) of the third cell 110c, and the energy value (E (cell-3) ) of the fourth cell 110d with one another. It is clear from the graph display shown in FIG. 4A that the energy value (E (cell-4) ) of the first cell 110a is the minimum compared to the energy value (E (cell-1) ) of the second cell 110b, the energy value (E (cell-2) ) of the third cell 110c, and the energy value (E (cell-3) ) of the fourth cell 110d. Thus, the control unit 235 determines that the energy value (E (cell-4) ) of the first cell 110a is the minimum compared to the energy value (E (cell-1)) is selected as the minimum energy value (E (cell-min) ).

[0075] In step 504, based on the determined energy value, method 500 determines the energy delta (D n ) for each of the plurality of cells 110. The energy delta (D n ) for each of the plurality of cells 110 is the difference between the energy value (E (cell-n) ) of each of the plurality of cells 110 and the minimum energy value (E (cell-min) ) of at least one of the plurality of cells 110. FIG. 4B shows a graphical display showing the energy delta (D n ) along the Y-axis and each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a-d along the X-axis.

[0076] As described above, the energy value (E (cell-1) ) of the first cell 110a is 2448 J, and the minimum energy value (E (cell-min) ) is also 2448 J. Therefore, according to Equation 2, as shown in FIG. 4B, the energy delta of the first cell 110a, D1 = 0 J.

[0077] Furthermore, the energy value (E (cell-2) ) of the second cell 110b is 2880 J, and the minimum energy value (E (cell-min) ) is 2448 J. Therefore, according to Equation 2, as shown in FIG. 4B, the energy delta of the second cell 110b, D2 = 432 J.

[0078] Furthermore, the energy value (E (cell-3) ) of the third cell 110c is 2592 J, and the minimum energy value (E (cell-min) ) is 2448 J. Therefore, according to Equation 2, as shown in FIG. 4B, the energy delta of the third cell 110c, D3 = 144 J.

[0079] Furthermore, the energy value (E (cell-4) ) of the fourth cell 110d is 2749 J, and the minimum energy value (E (cell-min)) is 2448J. Therefore, according to Equation 2, the energy delta of the fourth cell 110d, D4 = 301J.

[0080] Put simply, the first cell 110a has the least available energy, and thus no excess energy is transferred to the first storage unit 120a. The second cell 110b has 432J of excess energy required to be transferred to the second storage unit 120b. Similarly, the third cell 110c has 144J of excess energy required to be transferred to the third storage unit 120c, and the fourth cell 110d has 301J of excess energy to be transferred to the fourth storage unit 120d.

[0081] Based on a plurality of operating parameters, the control unit 235 further determines the voltage (V n ) of each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a - d as shown in FIG. 4C. FIG. 4C shows the voltage along the y - axis and each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a - d along the x - axis. According to the graph, the voltage V1 of the first cell 110a corresponds to 4000V, the voltage V2 of the second cell 110b corresponds to 4150V, the voltage V3 of the third cell 110c corresponds to 4070V, and the voltage V4 of the fourth cell 110d corresponds to 4100V.

[0082] Thereafter, the control unit 235 determines the voltage set point (VS (cap-n) ) of each of the first, second, third, and fourth storage units 120a - d based on the energy to be transferred. The voltage set point (VS (cap-n) ) of each of the first, second, third, and fourth storage units 120a - d is the square root of the ratio of the energy value (E (cell-n) ) of each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a - d to the capacitance of each of the first, second, third, and fourth storage units 120a - d. Further, as shown in FIG. 4D, the voltage set point (VS (cap-n)) is drawn along the Y-axis, and each of the first, second, third, and fourth storage units 120a - d is drawn along the X-axis.

[0083] According to Equation 3, as shown in FIG. 4D, the voltage set point of the first storage unit 120a, VS (cap-1) = 0V. Similarly, according to Equation 3, as shown in FIG. 4D, the voltage set point of the second storage unit 120b, VS (cap-2) = 4.16V, the voltage set point of the third storage unit 120c, VS (cap-3) = 2.40V, and the voltage set point of the fourth storage unit 120d, VS (cap-4) = 3.47V.

[0084] In step 506, method 500 includes determining a time period for operating the switching unit 215 based on the energy delta (D n ) of each of the plurality of cells 110. Referring to FIG. 3, the control unit 235 determines a time period (t) for operating each of the first, second, third, and fourth switches 230a - d based on the energy delta (D n ) of each of the first, second, third, and fourth cells 110a, 110b, 110c, and 110d, respectively. More specifically, the control unit 235 determines the time period (t n ) by determining the time required to charge at least one of the first, second, third, and fourth storage units 120a - d. The time period (t n ) is defined as the ratio of the product of the capacitance and the voltage set point (VS (cap-n) ) for each of the first, second, third, and fourth storage units 120a - d with respect to the charging current. Further, as shown in FIG. 4E, the time period (t n ) is drawn along the Y-axis, and each of the first, second, third, and fourth switches 230a - d is drawn along the X-axis.

[0085] The control unit 235 determines a time period (t2) for operating the second switch 230b to transfer 432 J of energy from the second cell 110b to the second storage unit 120b. As shown in Equation 4 and Figure 4E, the time period (t2) = 51.96 seconds.

[0086] Similarly, the control unit 235 determines a time period (t3) and a time period (t4) for transferring 144 J and 301 J of energy from each of the third cell 110c and the fourth cell 110d to the third storage unit 120c and the fourth storage unit 120d, respectively. As shown in Equation 4 and Figure 4E, the time period (t3) = 30 seconds and the time period (t4) = 43.37 seconds. Since the energy delta of the first cell 110a, D1 = 0 J, the control unit 235 does not need to operate the first switch 230a, and thus does not need to calculate the time period (t1).

[0087] In one embodiment, the control unit 235 further determines one of the equivalent resistance and the on-state resistance of each of the first, second, third, and fourth switches 230a - d based on the energy delta (D n ) of each of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d, respectively.

[0088] In step 508, method 500 includes selectively operating the switching unit 215 during a time period (t) to enable transfer of energy from at least one of the plurality of cells 110 to the storage unit 120. During the transfer of energy, each of the plurality of cells 110 is in an ideal operating state and the plurality of cells 110 are balanced.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 3, the control unit 235 communicates with each of the first, second, third, and fourth switches 230a - d via the first communication line 325a, the second communication line 325b, the third communication line 325c, and the fourth communication line 325d. Thus, the control unit 235 selectively operates each of the first, second, third, and fourth switches 230a - d over respective time periods. In one embodiment, the control unit 235, among other things, selectively operates each of the first, second, third, and fourth switches 230a - d over respective time periods based on one of, but not limited to, the equivalent resistance and on - state resistance of each of the first, second, third, and fourth switches 230a - d, the voltage set points of each of the first, second, third, and fourth storage units 120a - d, and combinations thereof.

[0090] Thus, respectively, via the first, second, third, and fourth switches 230a - d, 432 J of energy from the second cell 110b is transferred to the second storage unit 120b, 144 J of energy from the third cell 110c is transferred to the third storage unit 120c, and 301 J of energy from the fourth cell 110d is transferred to the fourth storage unit 120d. More specifically, the control unit 235 operates the second switch 230b for a time period (t2)=36.74 to enable the transfer of 432 J of energy from the second cell 110b to the second storage unit 120b. Similarly, the control unit 235 operates the third switch 230c and the fourth switch 230d for a time period (t3)=21.21 seconds and a time period (t4)=30.67 seconds, respectively, to enable the transfer of 144 J of energy from the third cell 110c to the third storage unit 120c and the transfer of 301 J of energy from the fourth cell 110d to the fourth storage unit 120d, respectively.

[0091] After the energy transfer, the states of each of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d are in an ideal operating state, and each of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d is considered to be balanced.

[0092] After balancing each of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d, the control unit 235 determines the voltage V of each of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d, as shown in FIG. 4F. n The voltage (V 1-4 ) of each of the first cell 110a, the second cell 110b, the third cell 110c, and the fourth cell 110d is below the threshold value, and it is clear from the graphs shown in FIGS. 4F and 4C that it is operating in an ideal operating state.

[0093] Aspects of the present invention have been particularly shown and described with reference to the above embodiments, but those skilled in the art will understand that various additional embodiments can be contemplated by modifying the disclosed machines, systems, and methods without departing from the scope of what is disclosed. Such embodiments are to be understood as being within the scope of the present invention as determined based on the claims and any equivalents thereof.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0094] 100 Environment 105 Battery Pack 110 Plurality of Cells 110a First Cell 110b Second Cell 110c Third Cell 110d Fourth Cell 115 System 120 Storage Unit 120a First Storage Unit 120b Second Storage Unit 120c Third storage unit 120d Fourth storage unit 125 Load 130 Charging unit 135 Server 140 Network 145 User device 210 Multiple sensors 210 Sensor 215 Switching unit 215a First switching unit 215b Second switching unit 215c Third switching unit 215d Fourth switching unit 220 Component 225 Current control component 230 Switch 230a First switch 230b Second switch 230c Third switch 230d Fourth switch 235 Control unit 240 Processor 245 Input / Output (I / O) interface unit 250 Memory 300 Block diagram 305 Cell road switch 310 DC connection switch 310c Third communication line 315 Storage unit switch 320a First communication line 320b Second communication line 320c Third communication line 320d Fourth communication line 325a First communication line 325b Second communication line 325c Third communication line 325d Fourth communication line 405 Battery telematics unit 405 System 410 Control Unit 500 Method

Claims

1. A system (115) for balancing a plurality of cells (110) disposed within a battery pack (105), comprising: a plurality of sensors (210) electrically coupled to the plurality of cells (110) for measuring a plurality of operating parameters of each of the plurality of cells (110); a switching unit (215) electrically coupled to each of the plurality of cells (110); and a control unit (235) communicatively coupled to each of the plurality of sensors (210) and the switching unit (215), wherein the control unit (235) is configured to: Based on data regarding the plurality of operating parameters of each of the plurality of cells (110), an energy value (E (cell-n) ) of each of the plurality of cells (110) is determined, and Based on the energy value (E (cell-n) ), determining an energy delta (D n ) for each of the plurality of cells (110), wherein the energy delta (Dn) is the difference between the energy value (E(cell-n)) of each of the plurality of cells (110) and the minimum energy value (E(cell-min)) of at least one cell among the plurality of cells (110), and the determining; During the time period (t n ), selectively operating the switching unit (215), wherein the time period (t n ) enables the transfer of energy from at least one of the plurality of cells (110) to the storage unit (120), and is determined based on the energy delta (D n ) of each of the plurality of cells (110). After the transfer of energy, each of the plurality of cells (110) is in an ideal operating state and the plurality of cells (110) are balanced, operating and perform, a system (115).

2. The ideal operating state is achieved when the voltage delta (VD n ) of each of the plurality of cells (110) is less than a threshold value, and the voltage delta (VDn) is the voltage value (V (cell-n) ) of each of the plurality of cells (110) and the minimum voltage value (V (cell-min) ) of at least one of the plurality of cells (110), the system (115) according to claim 1.

3. The system (115) according to claim 2, wherein the threshold value relates to a voltage range determined based on the type of the plurality of cells (110).

4. The system (115) according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of cells (110) is electrically coupled to each other in one of a series connection, a parallel connection, and combinations thereof.

5. The system (115) according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of operating parameters correspond to the current, voltage, and temperature of each of the plurality of cells (110).

6. The system (115) according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit (120) is one of a battery pack and a capacitor.

7. The system (115) according to claim 1, wherein the switching unit (215) is one of a switch, a transistor, and a MOSFET.

8. The control unit (235) selectively operates the switching unit (215) for a determined time period (t n ) based on one of the voltage set point (VS(cap-n)) of the storage unit (120), the equivalent resistance / on-state resistance of the switching unit (215), and combinations thereof. The system (115) according to claim 1.

9. The energy transmitted from at least one of the plurality of cells (110) to the storage unit (120) is utilized to recharge at least one of the plurality of cells (110), provide energy to a load (125), and perform one of combinations thereof. The system (115) according to claim 1.

10. A method (500) for balancing a plurality of cells (110) disposed within a battery pack (105), comprising: Based on data regarding a plurality of operating parameters of each of the plurality of cells (110), an energy value (E (cell-n) ) of each of the plurality of cells (110) is determined; Based on the energy value (E (cell-n) ), determining an energy delta (D n ) for each of the plurality of cells (110), wherein the energy delta (Dn) is the difference between the energy value (E(cell-n)) of each of the plurality of cells (110) and the minimum energy value (E(cell-min)) of at least one cell among the plurality of cells (110); Based on the energy delta (D n ), a step of determining a time period (t n ) for operating the switching unit (215), and To enable the transfer of energy from at least one of the plurality of cells (110) to the storage unit (120), during the time period (t n ), selectively operating the switching unit (215), wherein after the transfer of energy, each of the plurality of cells (110) is in an ideal operating state and the plurality of cells (110) are balanced, and comprising, a method (500).

11. The ideal operating state is achieved when the voltage delta (VD n ) of each of the plurality of cells (110) is less than a threshold value, and the voltage delta (VDn) is the voltage value (V (cell-n) ) of each of the plurality of cells (110) and the minimum voltage value (V (cell-min) ) of at least one of the plurality of cells (110), the method (500) according to claim 10.

12. During the determined time period (t n ), the step of selectively operating the switching unit (215) is based on one of the voltage set point (VS (cap-n) ) of the storage unit (120), the equivalent resistance / on-state resistance of the switching unit (215), and combinations thereof, according to the method (500) of claim 10.

13. The energy transmitted from the plurality of cells (110) to the storage unit (120) is utilized to recharge at least one of the plurality of cells (110), provide energy to a load (125), and perform one of their combinations, the method (500) according to claim 10.

14. A battery pack (105), comprising: a plurality of cells (110) disposed within the battery pack (105); a plurality of sensors (210) electrically coupled to the plurality of cells (110) for measuring a plurality of operating parameters of each of the plurality of cells (110); a switching unit (215) electrically coupled to each of the plurality of cells (110); and a control unit (235) communicatively coupled to each of the plurality of sensors (210) and the switching unit (215), wherein the control unit (235) is configured to: receive data regarding the operating parameters of each of the plurality of cells (110) from the plurality of sensors (210); Based on data regarding the plurality of operating parameters of each of the plurality of cells (110), determining a plurality of energy values (E (cell-n) ), each of the plurality of energy values (E (cell-n) ) corresponding to one of the plurality of cells (110), and the determining; Selecting the minimum energy value (E (cell-min) ) from the plurality of determined energy values, and Based on the minimum energy value (E (cell-min) ), determining an energy delta (D n ) for each of the plurality of cells (110), wherein the energy delta (D n ) is the difference between the energy value (E (cell-n) ) of each cell and the minimum energy value (E (cell-min) ), and Based on the energy delta (D n ), determining a time period (t n ) for operating the switching unit (215); and To enable the transfer of energy from each of the plurality of cells (110) to the storage unit (120), during the determined time period (t n ), selectively operating the switching unit (215), such that following the transfer of energy, each of the plurality of cells (110) is in an ideal operating state, the plurality of cells (110) are balanced, and the ideal operating state is achieved when the voltage delta (VD n ) of each of the plurality of cells (110) is less than a threshold value, and operating A battery pack (105) configured to perform.

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