Battery test device and battery test method

The battery test device simulates high-temperature environments to accurately predict battery degradation and safety risks, addressing the limitations of existing algorithms by measuring capacity and resistance changes, ensuring safer and more reliable battery performance.

WO2025143693A1PCT designated stage expired Publication Date: 2025-07-03LG ENERGY SOLUTION LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/KR2024/020807
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-12-27
Filing Date
2024-12-20
Publication Date
2025-07-03

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing battery test algorithms fail to simulate high-temperature environments, leading to errors and affecting battery life when used in high-powered applications.

Method used

A battery test device and method that simulate high-temperature environments by using a simulation kit with temperature sensors, heating and cooling elements, and insulating pads to measure capacity and resistance changes, predicting battery degradation and safety risks.

Benefits of technology

Enhances battery safety by predicting performance degradation and risks in high-power modes, providing accurate lifespan predictions and warranty considerations.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The battery test device disclosed in the present document comprises: a communication unit that receives battery data from a battery cell; and a control unit that determines a verification driving pattern of the battery cell, obtains test data by testing the battery cell with the verification driving pattern in the battery test device reflecting a temperature deviation of the battery cell, and determines an influence on the lifetime of the battery cell by comparing a standard capacity change rate and a resistance change rate of a first driving mode with those of a second driving mode, which are obtained based on the test data.
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Description

Battery testing device and battery testing method

[0001] Cross-citation with related applications

[0002] This invention claims the benefit of priority from Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0193112, filed December 27, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Technology field

[0004] The embodiments disclosed in this document relate to a battery testing device and a battery testing method.

[0005] Recently, active research and development is being conducted on secondary batteries. Here, the term "secondary battery" refers to a rechargeable battery, encompassing both conventional Ni / Cd and Ni / MH batteries, as well as recent lithium-ion batteries. Among secondary batteries, lithium-ion batteries have the advantage of a much higher energy density than conventional Ni / Cd and Ni / MH batteries. Furthermore, lithium-ion batteries can be manufactured in a compact and lightweight form, making them suitable for use as power sources for mobile devices. Furthermore, lithium-ion batteries are attracting attention as a next-generation energy storage medium, as their use is expanding to include power sources for electric vehicles.

[0006] As demand for these batteries grows, the advancement of battery testing algorithms is essential for verifying battery performance. In high-temperature environments, such as those found in high-powered vehicles, battery safety verification directly impacts the safety of battery users. However, conventional battery testing algorithms fail to simulate battery usage environments, leading to errors and inaccuracies in the impact on battery life that occur during actual battery use.

[0007] According to one embodiment disclosed in this document, a battery test device and a battery test method are provided for performing a battery test by simulating an environment in which a battery cell is used at a high temperature.

[0008] The technical problems of the embodiments disclosed in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the descriptions below.

[0009] A battery test device according to one embodiment may include a communication unit that obtains battery data from a battery cell, a control unit that determines a verification driving pattern related to a test of the battery cell, obtains test data by reflecting a temperature deviation of the battery cell, obtains a standard capacity change rate and a resistance change rate of the battery cell in each of a first driving mode and a second driving mode based on the test data, and determines a lifespan influence of the battery cell by comparing the standard capacity change rate and the resistance change rate.

[0010] The control unit can compare the standard capacity change rate and the resistance change rate based on the temperature deviation of the battery cell in the first driving mode and the second driving mode being greater than or equal to a reference deviation.

[0011] The control unit can determine the lifespan influence of the battery cell based on the time for which the temperature deviation exceeds the reference deviation being longer than the reference time.

[0012] The control unit can determine the life impact based on whether a condition for stopping operation of the battery cell within the reference time is satisfied.

[0013] The above control unit can obtain the test data from a simulation kit including a plurality of temperature sensors.

[0014] The control unit can obtain the test data from the simulation kit, which includes a heating pad that causes one side to reach a first preset threshold temperature and a cooling line that causes the other side to reach a second preset threshold temperature.

[0015] The control unit can obtain the test date from the simulation kit in which an insulating pad is provided to surround the battery cell to maintain the temperature of the battery above a certain temperature.

[0016] The above verification driving pattern may include a driving pattern in which the battery cell is driven at maximum output within the driving range of the battery cell.

[0017] A battery testing method according to one embodiment includes obtaining battery data from a battery cell, determining a verification driving pattern related to a test of the battery cell, obtaining test data by reflecting a temperature deviation of the battery cell, obtaining a standard capacity change rate and a resistance change rate of the battery cell in each of a first driving mode and a second driving mode based on the test data, and comparing the standard capacity change rate and the resistance change rate to determine a lifespan influence of the battery cell.

[0018] A battery test system according to one embodiment includes a battery cell included in a battery module, a simulation kit for reflecting a temperature deviation of the battery cell, and a battery test device for acquiring test data for testing the battery cell with the verification driving pattern while reflecting the temperature deviation, acquiring a standard capacity change rate and a resistance change rate of the battery cell in each of a first driving mode and a second driving mode based on the test data, and comparing the standard capacity change rate and the resistance change rate to determine a lifespan influence of the battery cell in each of the first driving mode and the second driving mode.

[0019] The battery test device can compare the standard capacity change rate and the resistance change rate based on the temperature deviation of the battery cell in the first driving mode and the second driving mode being greater than or equal to a reference deviation.

[0020] The above battery test device can determine the lifespan influence of the battery cell based on the time for which the temperature deviation exceeds the reference deviation being longer than the reference time.

[0021] The above battery test device can determine the life impact based on whether a condition for stopping operation of the battery cell within the above reference time is satisfied.

[0022] The above simulation kit may include a plurality of temperature sensors for detecting the temperature deviation of the battery cell.

[0023] The above simulation kit may include a heating pad so that one side is maintained at a first preset threshold temperature, and a cooling line so that the other side is maintained at a second preset threshold temperature.

[0024] The above simulation kit may be provided with an insulating pad surrounding the battery cell to maintain the temperature of the battery above a certain temperature.

[0025] The above verification driving pattern may include a driving pattern in which the battery cell is driven at maximum output within the driving range of the battery cell.

[0026] According to a battery test device according to one embodiment, the safety of battery use can be increased because it can pre-verify and determine in advance the battery performance degradation and risk factors due to high-power mode when using the battery.

[0027] According to a battery test device according to one embodiment, when the battery is used in a high-power driving mode, there is an effect of being able to predict in advance the degree of performance degradation compared to the battery performance specified in the battery quality assurance.

[0028] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a typical battery system including a battery test device according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram showing the configuration of a battery test device according to one embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a flow of a battery testing device verifying a battery according to one embodiment.

[0031] Figures 4 and 5 illustrate charge and discharge profiles of different driving modes used in a battery test device according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 6 illustrates a temperature deviation occurring in a battery test device according to one embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 7 illustrates a simulation kit included in a battery test device according to one embodiment.

[0034] FIG. 8 illustrates the discharge capacity change rate and resistance increase rate considering temperature deviation by a battery test device according to one embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 9 illustrates a degradation diagram considering temperature deviation by a battery test device according to one embodiment.

[0036] FIG. 10 illustrates a control flowchart of a battery testing method according to one embodiment.

[0037] Hereinafter, various embodiments disclosed in this document will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In this document, identical components in the drawings are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions of identical components are omitted.

[0038] With respect to the various embodiments disclosed in this document, specific structural and functional descriptions are merely illustrative for the purpose of explaining the embodiments, and the various embodiments disclosed in this document may be implemented in various forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments described in this document.

[0039] The expressions "first," "second," "first," or "second" used in various embodiments may describe various components, regardless of order and / or importance, and do not limit the components. For example, without departing from the scope of the embodiments disclosed herein, a first component may be renamed a second component, and similarly, a second component may also be renamed a first component.

[0040] The terms used in this document are intended solely to describe specific embodiments and may not be intended to limit the scope of other embodiments. Singular expressions may include plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0041] All terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art of the embodiments disclosed herein. Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries may be interpreted as having the same or similar meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and unless explicitly defined herein, they shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense. In some cases, even if a term is defined herein, it cannot be interpreted to exclude the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0042] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram showing the configuration of a typical battery system including a battery test device according to various embodiments.

[0043] Specifically, FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a battery system (10) and an upper controller (20) included in an upper system according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0044] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the battery system (10) may include a plurality of battery modules (12), a sensor unit (14), a switching unit (16), and a battery test device (1). At this time, the battery system (10) may be equipped with a plurality of battery modules (12), sensor units (14), switching units (16), and battery test devices (1).

[0045] A plurality of battery modules (12) may include at least one rechargeable battery cell (13). The battery cell (13) may include a cathode, a cathode material, a cathode material, a separator, an electrolyte, a polymer, and a case. In this case, the plurality of battery modules (12) may be connected in series or in parallel.

[0046] The sensor unit (14) may include a voltage sensor, a current sensor, and a temperature sensor.

[0047] The voltage sensor can be configured to be connected in parallel to the battery, detect the battery voltage, which is the voltage across both terminals of the battery, and generate a voltage signal representing the detected battery voltage.

[0048] The voltage sensor may include at least one of a resistance distribution sensor, a Hall effect sensor, and a Shockley effect sensor for voltage measurement, and there is no limitation as long as it is configured to measure the voltage of a battery cell.

[0049] The current sensor can detect the current utilized in the process of determining the SOC of the battery cell (13). The current sensor can include any configuration that generates a signal corresponding to the size of the charging current, and the current sensor can be installed on the charging / discharging path, which is the path through which the charging / discharging current flows in the battery.

[0050] The current sensor can measure the battery current flowing in the battery, i.e., the charging current and the discharging current, and transmit the measurement results to the battery testing device (1). According to one embodiment, the current sensor can measure the battery current at predetermined intervals during a charging cycle in which the battery is charged with power from an external device or a discharging cycle in which the battery is discharged, and transmit the measurement results to the battery testing device (1).

[0051] The temperature sensor may be configured to measure the battery temperature and generate a temperature signal representing the measured battery temperature. The temperature sensor may be positioned within the case so as to measure a temperature close to the actual temperature of the battery. For example, the temperature sensor may be attached to the surface of at least one battery cell included in the cell group and may detect the surface temperature of the battery cell as the battery temperature.

[0052] In Fig. 1, the sensor unit (14) is connected between the positive electrode of the battery cell (13) and the switching unit (16), but the configurations and connection relationships between the configurations shown in Fig. 1 are only examples and are not limited thereto.

[0053] The switching unit (16) is connected in series to the (+) terminal side or the (-) terminal side of the battery module (12) to control the charge / discharge current flow of the battery module (12). For example, the switching unit (16) may use at least one relay, magnetic contactor, etc. depending on the specifications of the battery system (10).

[0054] The battery test device (1) is an interface for receiving values ​​measured from various parameters, and may include a plurality of terminals and a circuit connected to these terminals to process the values ​​received. In addition, the battery test device (1) may control the ON / OFF of a switching unit (16), for example, a relay or a contactor, and may be connected to a battery module (12) to monitor the status of each battery module (12).

[0055] In addition, the battery test device (1) can obtain battery status information and verify the status of the battery by receiving temperature data, voltage data, and current data from the sensor unit (14).

[0056] The upper controller (20) can transmit a control signal for controlling the battery module (12) to the battery test device (1). Accordingly, the operation of the battery test device (1) can be controlled based on the control signal applied from the upper controller (20). In addition, the battery module (12) may be a component included in an ESS (Energy Storage System). In this case, the upper controller (20) may be a controller (BBMS) of a battery bank including a plurality of battery systems (10) or an ESS controller that controls the entire ESS including a plurality of banks. However, the battery system (10) is not limited to this purpose.

[0057] FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram showing the configuration of a battery test device according to one embodiment.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 2, a battery test device (1) according to one embodiment includes a control unit (100) including at least one processor (110) and a memory (120) and a communication unit (200), and can test a battery by communicating with an external device (4) through the communication unit (200).

[0059] According to one embodiment, an external device (3) communicating with a battery test device (1) may include a user terminal and a server device that transmit the results tested by the battery test device (1).

[0060] Specifically, when the external device (3) is a user terminal, the control unit (100) of the battery test device (1) can transmit the battery test results to the user terminal so that the user can check them. At this time, the user terminal may include, but is not limited to, a personal computer, a terminal, a portable telephone, a smart phone, a handheld device, a wearable device, etc.

[0061] In addition, when the external device (3) is a server device, the server device may be implemented as various computing devices such as a workstation, a cloud, a data drive, a data station, etc. The server device may be implemented as one or more server devices that are physically or logically separated based on function, detailed configuration of function, or data, etc., and may transmit and receive data and process the transmitted and received data through communication between each server device.

[0062] A battery test device (1) according to one embodiment may refer to any electronic device including a processor (110) and memory (120), and may be mounted on a vehicle and operated. Each component of the battery test device (1) will be described in detail below.

[0063] The communication unit (200) may include a wireless communication unit (210) and a wired communication unit (220) to communicate with an external device (3). The communication unit (200) may transmit and receive programs for calculating battery cell characteristics, class classification, deterioration calculation, and lifespan estimation, as well as various data, from a separately provided external server.

[0064] The wireless communication unit (210) may include at least one of a short-range communication module and a long-range communication module.

[0065] The short-range communication module can communicate with an external device (3) adjacent to the battery test device (1) using a short-range communication method. Here, the short-range communication module can utilize one of the following communication methods: Bluetooth, Bluetooth low energy, infrared data association (IrDA), Zigbee, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi direct, Ultra Wideband (UWB), or near field communication (NFC).

[0066] The remote communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of remote communication and may include a mobile communication unit. The mobile communication unit may transmit and receive a wireless signal with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and an external device (3) on a mobile communication network. In addition, the remote communication module may communicate with an external device (3) or an external device (3) such as another electronic device through a surrounding access point (AP). The access point (AP) may connect a local area network (LAN) to which the battery test device (1) is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which a communication server is connected. Accordingly, the battery test device (1) may be connected to the communication server through the wide area network (WAN) with the external device (3) and communicate with each other.

[0067] The wired communication unit (220) can connect to a wired communication network and communicate with an external device (3) through the wired communication network. For example, the wired communication unit (220) can connect to a wired communication network through Ethernet (IEEE 802.3 technology standard) or connect to a wired communication network through CAN communication, and transmit and receive data with the external devices (3) through the wired communication network.

[0068] A battery test device (1) according to one embodiment may include an input / output interface (not shown). An interface may be provided that connects an input device (not shown) such as a keyboard, mouse, or touch panel, an output device (not shown) such as a display, and a processor (110) to transmit and receive data.

[0069] The memory (120) can store various information required for operating the battery test device (1). Specifically, the memory (120) can store an operating system and a program required for operating the battery test device (1), or store data required for operating the battery test device (1).

[0070] Specifically, the memory (120) can store various programs related to calculating the deterioration of battery cells and estimating their lifespan. In addition, the memory (120) can store various battery data, such as voltage, current, temperature, and characteristic value data of each battery cell.

[0071] Additionally, the memory (120) can store the life impact of the battery cell performed by the processor (110).

[0072] The memory (120) may include volatile memory (120) such as Static Random Access Memory (S-RAM) and Dynamic Random Access Memory (D-RAM) for temporarily storing data. In addition, the memory (120) may include nonvolatile memory (120) such as Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), and Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM) for long-term storage of data.

[0073] The processor (110) outputs control signals to control the overall battery test device (1). The processor (110) may include one or more central processing units (CPUs) and graphics processing units (GPUs). In this case, the processor (110) may be implemented as an array of a plurality of logic gates, or may be implemented as a combination of a general-purpose microprocessor (110) and a memory (120) storing a program that can be executed on the microprocessor (110).

[0074] The aforementioned memory (120) and processor (110) may be included in the control unit (100), and the control unit (100) may control the aforementioned components to verify the battery cell.

[0075] Specifically, the control unit (100) can determine a verification driving pattern of the battery cell (13) and acquire test data by reflecting the temperature deviation of the battery cell (13). At this time, the control unit (100) can select the verification driving pattern from among multiple driving patterns, or can receive a verification driving pattern generated in advance through the communication unit (200).

[0076] Thereafter, the control unit (100) can obtain the standard capacity change rate and resistance change rate of each of the first and second driving modes based on the test data, and compare each standard capacity change rate and resistance change rate to determine the lifespan influence of the battery cell (13). Here, the first driving mode may mean a general driving mode of a vehicle using a battery, and the second driving mode may mean a high-power driving mode of a high-power vehicle using a battery.

[0077] Accordingly, the battery test device (1) according to one embodiment can determine the lifespan influence by comparing the standard capacity change rate and resistance change rate of the normal driving mode and the high-power driving mode, respectively.

[0078] Specifically, the control unit (100) can compare the standard capacity change rate and the resistance change rate based on the temperature deviation of the battery cell (13) in the first driving mode and the second driving mode being greater than or equal to the reference deviation, and the control unit (100) can determine the lifespan influence of the battery cell (13) based on the time for which the temperature deviation exceeds the reference deviation being greater than or equal to the reference time.

[0079] That is, the control unit (100) can determine the lifespan impact on the battery cell (13) by considering the temperature deviation inside the battery cell (13) in each driving mode, so that the battery can be tested in an environment closer to actual driving.

[0080] In addition, the control unit (100) can determine the life impact based on the satisfaction of the condition that the operation of the battery cell (13) is stopped within the reference time, and the control unit (100) can reflect in the life impact of the battery cell (13) a situation in which the operation of the battery cell (13) is stopped due to the occurrence of an upper / lower voltage limit or an upper temperature limit when the battery is used in a high output mode and a temperature deviation occurs.

[0081] In this way, the battery test device (1) according to one embodiment can determine the influence of the life of the battery cell (13) by considering not only the driving mode but also the temperature deviation of the battery cell (13), so that the influence of the life of the battery cell (13) can be determined before the battery is shipped, and accordingly, the life of the battery cell (13) can be taken into consideration in the warranty of the battery.

[0082] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a flow of a battery testing device verifying a battery according to one embodiment.

[0083] In FIG. 3, the configurations 101 to 104 are implemented in the form of software blocks, and can be stored in memory (120) and executed by the processor (110).

[0084] Referring to FIG. 3, the control unit (100) can receive battery data of the battery cell (13) from the sensor unit (14) or the communication unit (200). The control unit (100) can receive the battery data and determine the standard capacity change rate and the resistance change rate for each driving mode.

[0085] Thereafter, the verification driving pattern determination unit (101) of the control unit (100) can determine a driving pattern of the vehicle for verifying the battery cell (13). For example, the verification driving pattern can include a driving pattern in the case of driving the battery cell (13) at the highest output within the drivable range of the battery cell (13), and specifically, the verification driving pattern can be determined as a driving pattern for the worst case in terms of battery use that uses the highest output and high temperature within the drivable range of the battery with an existing system and a new system by building a vehicle simulation that drives a specific circuit.

[0086] In addition, as described above, the verification driving pattern can be actively determined by the control unit (100) from a plurality of driving patterns, or a predetermined driving pattern can be received through the communication unit (200) and the received driving pattern can be determined as the verification driving pattern.

[0087] The standard capacity change rate determination unit (102) of the control unit (100) for each driving mode can determine the standard capacity change rate in each of the first driving mode (normal driving mode) and the second driving mode (high-power driving mode) included in the driving mode. At this time, the standard capacity change rate can be determined by the control unit (100) assuming that the battery is used according to a verification driving pattern in each mode.

[0088] At this time, the standard capacity of the battery may decrease over time and may vary depending on the usage pattern of the battery, so the control unit (100) can calculate the influence on the battery life by comparing the standard capacity change rate that varies depending on the driving mode.

[0089] Specifically, the control unit (100) can determine the rate of capacity decrease over time as the standard capacity change rate, and the standard capacity change rate can be calculated by subtracting the current capacity from the initial capacity of the battery and dividing that value by the initial capacity.

[0090] The resistance change rate determination unit (103) of the control unit (100) for each driving mode can determine the resistance change rate in each of the first driving mode (normal driving mode) and the second driving mode (high-power driving mode). At this time, the resistance change rate can be determined by the control unit (100) assuming that the battery is used by a verification driving pattern in each mode.

[0091] Here, the resistance change rate refers to the change in the internal resistance of the battery and may increase over time. Since the resistance change rate may increase based on an increase in temperature or an increase in temperature deviation, the control unit (100) can calculate the battery life impact based on the resistance change rate inside the battery that varies due to changes in temperature and the upper current limit.

[0092] Specifically, the control unit (100) receives the internal resistance value of the battery from a resistance sensor that measures the internal resistance of the battery, and calculates the degree to which the internal resistance value of the battery changes over time to determine the resistance change rate for each driving mode.

[0093] The life influence determination unit (104) of the control unit (100) can determine the life influence based on the standard capacity change rate and resistance change rate determined for each driving mode. That is, the control unit (100) can compare the standard capacity change rate and resistance change rate of the first driving mode (normal driving mode) and the second driving mode (high output driving mode) to determine the life influence when the battery is used in the second driving mode (high output driving mode), and in addition, the temperature deviation inside the battery cell (13) can be taken into consideration.

[0094] The control unit (100) can determine the battery life impact of the second driving mode (high-power driving mode) and transmit the determined battery life impact or battery life to an external device (3). Accordingly, a user using the battery or a battery manager can easily check the impact of increased upper current limit values ​​and upper temperature limit values ​​in the high-power driving mode on battery life.

[0095] Figures 4 and 5 illustrate charge and discharge profiles of different driving modes used in a battery test device according to one embodiment.

[0096] The control unit (100) can store driving data regarding the driving specifications of the battery cell (13) and the upper limit values ​​of detailed parameters in the memory (120) for each driving mode. That is, the control unit (100) can separately maintain the upper limit values ​​of current or temperature that vary between the normal driving mode and the high-power driving mode, and use the corresponding detailed parameters when a battery test is performed in each driving mode.

[0097] Accordingly, referring to (a) of FIG. 4, the control unit (100) can generate a charge / discharge profile based on the driving data stored in the memory (120) in the first driving mode (normal driving mode). In addition, referring to (a) of FIG. 5, the control unit (100) can generate a charge / discharge profile based on the driving data stored in the memory (120) in the second driving mode (high-power driving mode).

[0098] The control unit (100) can calculate the limit conditions within the battery life cycle when using the battery in a verification driving pattern based on the charge / discharge profile derived from FIGS. 4 and 5. For example, in order to match the actual battery usage environment with the test environment, the control unit (100) can set the time exceeding the reference upper limit temperature value to 2 minutes for one repetition of the verification driving pattern, or up to 10 hours within the battery life cycle. In addition, the number of times the high-power driving mode can be set within the battery life cycle can be set to a maximum of 144 times.

[0099] In this way, the control unit (100) can similarly simulate the actual battery usage environment during the process of verifying the battery, so that the effect of the high-power driving mode on the battery degradation can be derived similarly to the actual battery usage.

[0100] FIG. 6 illustrates a temperature deviation occurring in a battery test device according to one embodiment.

[0101] The simulation kit included in the battery test device (1) may include a plurality of temperature sensors for detecting temperature deviations of battery cells (13). That is, unlike conventional technologies, the battery test device (1) according to one embodiment can accurately simulate the temperature deviation of a battery located inside a vehicle in an actual driving environment, thereby determining the influence of battery life more similar to an actual driving environment.

[0102] To this end, the simulation kit may be equipped with a temperature sensor at each point of the battery cell (13) as described in Fig. 7. At this time, the location of the temperature sensor may be provided at the point where each temperature sensor is located farthest from each other in the battery cell (13).

[0103] That is, as shown in Fig. 6, the control unit (100) can receive the temperature of different points of a single battery cell (13) from each temperature sensor (a to g). In this way, even for a single battery cell (13), temperature deviations can occur in various ways, and the battery test device (1) according to one embodiment can consider the temperature deviation of the battery cell (13) during the battery test process, thereby enabling more accurate pre-verification of the influence on battery life.

[0104] Referring to (a) and (g) of FIG. 6, the control unit (100) can detect a maximum temperature deviation of 27 degrees around 16 minutes after the start of battery use. In addition, the control unit (100) can detect that a significant temperature deviation of 15 degrees or more, which can affect the battery life, persisted for 6 minutes when the battery cell (13) was used once in a verification driving pattern.

[0105] In this way, the control unit (100) can detect the temperature deviation of the battery cell (13) including the maximum temperature deviation and compare the influence of the battery life according to the driving mode in a situation where the temperature deviation of the battery cell (13) occurs, so that the battery designer can specifically set the limit temperature and limit current and reflect them in the warranty of the battery in the future.

[0106] FIG. 7 illustrates a battery test device included in a battery test device according to one embodiment.

[0107] Referring to Fig. 7, the simulation kit included in the battery test device (1) may include a heating pad (a), a cooling line (b), a temperature sensor (c), an insulation pad (d), and an insulation material (e). Through this, the simulation kit can provide an environment for testing a battery cell (13) in an environment similar to an actual vehicle driving environment.

[0108] The heating pad (a) included in the simulation kit may be arranged to heat one side of the battery cell (13) to create an artificial temperature difference in the battery cell (13), since a temperature difference is not applied to the battery cell (13) in a battery test environment. For example, the heating pad (a) may include a heater, heat pump, or heater having resistance, and may heat one side of the battery cell (13) to maintain the temperature at 70°C.

[0109] The cooling line (b) included in the simulation kit, like the heating pad (a), may be provided to cool one side of the battery cell (13) to create an artificial temperature difference in the battery cell (13). For example, the cooling line (b) may include a cooling pipe or cooler through which cooling water flows, and may cool one side of the battery cell (13) to maintain the temperature at 25°C.

[0110] That is, the battery test device (1) according to one embodiment can additionally consider the temperature deviation in the test environment of the battery cell (13) by including a heating pad (a) and a cooling line (b).

[0111] Additionally, the simulation kit may include a plurality of temperature sensors (c). As described above, the plurality of temperature sensors (c) may be provided at locations furthest from each other to measure the temperature of each part of the battery cell (13) in order to measure the temperature deviation inside the battery chamber.

[0112] Additionally, since the simulation kit facilitates heat dissipation in a test environment rather than an actual battery usage environment, the insulation pad (d) and insulation material (e) can be configured to surround the battery cell (13).

[0113] For example, the insulating pad (d) may include a plate of bakelite material having a preset thickness, and the insulating material (e) may include a polyurethane foam having a preset thickness.

[0114] That is, the battery test device (1) according to one embodiment can take into account the insulation environment in the test environment of the battery cell (13) by including an insulation pad (d) and an insulation material (e).

[0115] Accordingly, since the battery test device (1) can simulate an environment similar to the actual use environment of the battery, it is possible to derive the difference in lifespan influence between the first driving mode (normal driving mode) and the second driving mode (high-power driving mode) in an environment similar to the actual use environment.

[0116] FIG. 8 illustrates the discharge capacity change rate and resistance increase rate considering temperature deviation by a battery test device according to one embodiment.

[0117] Referring to Fig. 8, the x-axis may represent the number of cycles of the verification driving pattern (NBR), and the y-axis may represent the standard capacity change rate and resistance change rate, respectively.

[0118] In the multiple graphs, (a) and (c) may represent the results of running a verification driving pattern using a mol cell, while (b) and (d) may represent the results of running a verification driving pattern using a bol cell. In addition, (e) represents a graph of the standard capacity change rate when the influence of temperature deviation is taken into account.

[0119] Here, a mol cell (middle of life cell) may refer to a battery cell that is assumed to have been driven for a preset standard number of years with the expected capacity retention rate and resistance increase rate of the battery cell within the warranty period.

[0120] For example, a molar cell can mean a battery cell that has been driven for 4 years, assuming a warranty period of 8 years or 160,000 km, whichever comes first, with an expected cell capacity retention rate of 80% and a resistance increase rate of 130%.

[0121] Additionally, a bol cell (beginning of life cell) can refer to a battery cell that is in its original, undamaged state when shipped from the factory.

[0122] In this way, the battery test device according to one embodiment can perform tests on both mole cells and ball cells to simulate various cell environments and utilize the results to overcome the difficulty of a vehicle driver in predicting the extent to which a cell has deteriorated before using high-power mode.

[0123] That is, referring to (a~d) of Fig. 8, as the number of repetitions of the battery verification driving pattern increases, i.e., as the use of the battery increases, the internal resistance may increase and the standard capacity may decrease.

[0124] However, when the temperature deviation is taken into account, such as in the battery test device (1) according to one embodiment, the lifespan influence can be determined by determining that the standard capacity change rate is reduced more than when the temperature deviation is not taken into account.

[0125] FIG. 9 illustrates a degradation diagram considering temperature deviation by a battery test device according to one embodiment.

[0126] Next, referring to FIG. 9, the x-axis may represent the discharge capacity, which is the maximum amount of power that can be transmitted per unit time, and the y-axis may represent the standard capacity change rate and power maintenance capacity, respectively.

[0127] In the multiple graphs, (a) refers to a high-power driving mode that can be driven in a general vehicle, and (b) refers to a high-power driving mode that can be driven in a premium vehicle. It may refer to an embodiment in which the temperature of the battery cell is expanded to a range of 70 degrees or less, and thus an embodiment in which the average speed is higher than (a).

[0128] Additionally, (c) may mean a case where temperature deviation is considered in the second driving mode (high-power driving mode), and (d) may mean a graph of the difference in capacity retention rate in (a) and (b).

[0129] That is, when comparing (a) and (b) of FIG. 9, as the discharge capacity of the battery increases, the standard capacity decreases, the power retention capacity may decrease, and a difference in capacity retention rate may occur as in (d). However, when the temperature deviation is taken into account, as in the battery test device (1) according to one embodiment, the lifespan influence can be determined by determining that the standard capacity change rate decreases more than when the temperature deviation is not taken into account, and the difference in capacity retention rate can be diagrammed as in (d) to analyze the effect of the capacity deviation on the lifespan influence.

[0130] In this way, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the battery test device (1) according to one embodiment can take into account the temperature deviation inside the battery cell (13) by the simulation kit, so that the degree of battery degradation and the influence on the lifespan can be estimated with higher accuracy.

[0131] FIG. 10 illustrates a control flowchart of a battery testing method according to one embodiment.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 10, the control unit (100) can receive battery data of multiple battery cells (13) (1000) and determine a verification driving pattern of the battery cells (13) (1010). At this time, the verification driving pattern may include a driving pattern in which the temperature and current values ​​for verifying the battery cells (13) are increased.

[0133] Thereafter, the control unit (100) can determine the standard capacity change rate for each driving mode (1020) and the resistance change rate for each driving mode (1030). The control unit (100) can determine the degree of degradation of the battery based on the difference between the standard capacity change rate and the resistance change rate for each driving mode (1040), and can determine the influence on the battery life based on the degree of degradation.

[0134] At this time, as mentioned in FIGS. 8 and 9, since the temperature deviation of the battery cell (13) itself must be taken into account to obtain a result similar to the actual battery use environment, the control unit (100) can determine whether the temperature difference inside the battery cell (13) exceeds a reference value (1050).

[0135] If the control unit (100) determines that the temperature difference inside the battery cell (13) exceeds the reference value by the simulation kit (example of 1050), it can additionally reflect the degree of degradation according to the temperature difference in the battery life influence (1060).

[0136] Thereafter, the battery designer can establish a battery warranty to be provided to the battery user based on the obtained battery life impact. That is, prior to selling the battery cell (13) to the user, the battery cell is pre-verified using a battery test device (1) according to one embodiment, and the battery life impact derived from the verification results is reflected in the battery warranty, thereby maximizing user satisfaction and the battery seller's profits.

[0137] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium storing computer-executable instructions. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0138] Computer-readable storage media include all types of storage media that store instructions that can be deciphered by a computer. Examples include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic tape, magnetic disks, flash memory, and optical data storage devices.

[0139] Additionally, a computer-readable recording medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, the term "non-transitory storage medium" simply means a tangible device that does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves). This term does not distinguish between cases where data is permanently stored in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored. For example, a "non-transitory storage medium" may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable recording medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated on a machine-readable recording medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0141] Although all components constituting the embodiments disclosed in this document have been described as being combined or operating in combination as one, the embodiments disclosed in this document are not necessarily limited to such embodiments. That is, within the scope of the purpose of the embodiments disclosed in this document, all of the components may be selectively combined and operated one or more times.

[0142] Furthermore, terms such as "include," "comprise," or "have" described above, unless specifically stated otherwise, imply that the corresponding component may be present, and therefore should be interpreted to include other components rather than excluding other components. All terms, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments disclosed in this document pertain, unless otherwise defined. Commonly used terms, such as terms defined in dictionaries, should be interpreted to be consistent with the contextual meaning of the relevant technology, and shall not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense, unless explicitly defined in this document.

[0143] The above description is merely an illustrative description of the technical idea disclosed in this document, and those skilled in the art to which the embodiments disclosed in this document pertain may make various modifications and variations without departing from the essential characteristics of the embodiments disclosed in this document. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed in this document are not intended to limit the technical idea of ​​the embodiments disclosed in this document, but to explain it, and the scope of the technical idea disclosed in this document is not limited by these embodiments. The scope of protection of the technical idea disclosed in this document should be interpreted by the claims below, and all technical ideas within a scope equivalent thereto should be interpreted as being included in the scope of rights of this document.

[0144] [Explanation of symbols]

[0145] 1: Battery test device

[0146] 2: Voltage sensor

[0147] 3: External devices

[0148] 10: Battery system

[0149] 12: Multiple battery modules

[0150] 13: Battery cell

[0151] 14: Sensor section

[0152] 16: Switching section

[0153] 20: Upper controller

[0154] 100: Control Unit

[0155] 110: Processor

[0156] 120: Memory

[0157] 200: Communications Department

[0158] 210: Wireless Communications Department

[0159] 220: Wired Communications Department

Claims

1. A communication unit for obtaining battery data from a battery cell; and A battery test device comprising: a control unit for determining a verification driving pattern related to a test of the battery cell, obtaining test data by reflecting a temperature deviation of the battery cell, obtaining a standard capacity change rate and a resistance change rate of the battery cell in each of a first driving mode and a second driving mode based on the test data, and comparing the standard capacity change rate and the resistance change rate to determine a lifespan influence of the battery cell; 2. In claim 1, The above control unit, A battery test device that compares the standard capacity change rate and the resistance change rate based on the temperature deviation of the battery cell in the first driving mode and the second driving mode being greater than or equal to a reference deviation.

3. In claim 2, The above control unit, A battery test device for determining the lifespan influence of the battery cell based on the time for which the temperature deviation exceeds the reference deviation is longer than the reference time.

4. In claim 3, The above control unit, A battery test device for determining the life impact based on the satisfaction of a condition in which the operation of the battery cell is stopped within the above-mentioned reference time.

5. In claim 1, The above control unit, A battery test device obtaining said test data from a simulation kit including a plurality of temperature sensors.

6. In claim 5, The above control unit, A battery test device for obtaining test data from said simulation kit, said simulation kit comprising a heating pad causing one side to reach a first preset threshold temperature and a cooling line causing the other side to reach a second preset threshold temperature.

7. In claim 6, The above control unit, A battery test device for obtaining the test date from the simulation kit, wherein an insulating pad is provided to surround the battery cell to maintain the temperature of the battery above a certain temperature.

8. In claim 1, The above verification driving pattern is, A battery test device including a driving pattern in which the battery cell is driven at maximum output within the driving range of the battery cell.

9. Obtain battery data from the battery cells; Determining a verification driving pattern related to testing of the above battery cells; Obtain test data reflecting the temperature deviation of the above battery cells; Based on the above test data, the standard capacity change rate and resistance change rate of the battery cell in each of the first driving mode and the second driving mode are obtained; A battery testing method comprising: determining the lifespan influence of the battery cell by comparing the standard capacity change rate and the resistance change rate.

10. Battery cells included in the battery module; A simulation kit for reflecting the temperature deviation of the above battery cells; and A battery test system comprising: a battery test device for acquiring test data for testing the battery cell with the verification driving pattern by reflecting the temperature deviation, acquiring a standard capacity change rate and a resistance change rate of the battery cell in each of the first driving mode and the second driving mode based on the test data, and comparing the standard capacity change rate and the resistance change rate to determine the lifespan influence of the battery cell in each of the first driving mode and the second driving mode; 11. In claim 10, The above battery test device, A battery test system that compares the standard capacity change rate and the resistance change rate based on the temperature deviation of the battery cell in the first driving mode and the second driving mode being greater than or equal to a reference deviation.

12. In claim 11, The above battery test device, A battery test system for determining the lifespan impact of the battery cell based on the time for which the temperature deviation exceeds the reference deviation is greater than or equal to a reference time.

13. In claim 12, The above battery test device, A battery test system for determining the life impact based on the satisfaction of a condition in which the operation of the battery cell is stopped within the above-mentioned reference time.

14. In claim 10, The above simulation kit, A battery test system comprising a plurality of temperature sensors for detecting the temperature deviation of the battery cell.

15. In claim 10, The above simulation kit, A battery test system comprising a heating pad to maintain one side at a first preset threshold temperature and a cooling line to maintain the other side at a second preset threshold temperature.

16. In claim 10, The above simulation kit, A battery test system in which an insulating pad is provided to surround the battery cell to maintain the temperature of the battery above a certain temperature.

17. In claim 10, The above verification driving pattern is, A battery test method including a driving pattern in which the battery cell is driven at maximum output within the drivable range of the battery cell.

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