State of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network

Abstract

The present invention relates to state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network which comprises the reconfigurable battery structure represented by the reconfigurable energy enhanced architecture "REEA", the optimization algorithm and the battery management system "BMS" which comprises the battery balancing system, the battery charging system and the battery discharging system which includes the replacement process.

Description

[0001]DESCRIPTION STATE OF CHARGE (SOC) OPTIMIZATION OF RECONFIGURABLE BATTERY NETWORK Technical Area The present invention relates to state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network which comprises the reconfigurable battery structure represented by the reconfigurable energy enhanced architecture “REEA”, optimization algorithm and the battery management system “BMS” which includes the battery balancing system, battery charging system, and battery discharging system which includes the replacing process. Prior Art Today, unmanned aerial vehicles, unmanned underwater vehicles, robotic and autonomous devices, hybrid and electric vehicles, portable computers, high-tech mobile phones, small digital cameras, military innovations and cordless devices have become widespread. Therefore, energy storage problem has arisen for this equipment. Lithium-ion batteries, which are among the most efficient batteries today, have an undeniable wide area in the market. Lithium-ion batteries have an enormous capacity. However, due to the limited supply of lithium-ion in the world, lithium-ion batteries have almost reached their limits and are characterized by a high cost. This requires further development of such technologies called rechargeable batteries. Batteries for Energy Storage System (ESS) devices, are widely used to improve the intermittent production of renewable energy sources and to supply electrical appliances and electric vehicles. There are different battery types according to the specifications and modeling forms. It is very important to determine the battery state of charge (SOC) in order to provide charge control of the battery and to plan according to the remaining energy during use of the battery. Nowadays, there are different methods for determining SOC in many applications. State of charge (SOC) is the important parameter of the cell, it is used to determine the electrical energy remaining of the cell in the battery management system (BMS). In the known case of the technique: ^ As described in document US2010261048A1, A dynamically reconfigurable framework is provided for a large-scale battery system. The framework is comprised of a plurality of battery circuits arranged adjacent to each other to form a battery-cell array that is coupled to an application load. A given battery circuit includes: a battery cell with an input terminal and an output terminal; a first switch connected between the load and an input terminal of the battery cell; a second switch is connected between an input terminal of the battery cell and an output terminal of a battery cell in an immediately adjacent battery circuit; and a third switch connected between the output terminal of the battery cell and the output terminal of the battery cell in the adjacent battery circuit. The battery- cell array also includes a local controller that selectively controls the switches in the plurality of battery circuits. However, the present invention provides a dynamically reconfigurable framework is provided for a large-scale battery system. ^ With document US9177466B2, the invention that is patented; - Directed to monitoring of one or more battery conditions and communicating a warning signal when a failure condition is present, and further providing techniques for processing battery conditions in order to determine impending failures that are likely to occur in the future is protected by the application, - Said systems in document US9177466B2, apparatuses and methods of the present disclosure may be capable of detecting internal cell faults using online and real-time sensing techniques, and providing an accurate and reliable early warning for the incoming failure of LIB cells (hours or days prior to failure) in a battery pack using advanced detection technology and algorithms. This technology may be a standalone system or incorporated into a BMS. - In the document US9177466B2, the parameters of cells such as voltage (V), state of charge (SOC), internal temperature (Ti), cell surface temperature differential (dTs / dt), and AC impedance (Z1) can also serve as parameters for monitoring the state of health and detecting the failure of a cell. Profiles for SOC, voltage, and AC impedance may also be modeled to determine failure. However, the use of a parameter as a failure indicator depends on whether the parameter is easily measured or computed, the response is fast enough, and the accuracy is high enough. The detection algorithm using temperature as the failure signature has been successfully developed and validated). However, the invention subject to the document US9177466B2 does not contain “the reconfigurable battery structure represented by the reconfigurable energy enhanced architecture (REEA)”, “the replacing process in the battery discharging system” and “Optimization algorithm” together. ^ The document numbered US7710073B2 discloses a secondary battery module includes a battery information storage unit for storing electric characteristic information and usage history information of the secondary battery module. A secondary battery module which comprises an assembled battery formed by connecting a plurality of cells, a battery information storage means for storing as battery information at least one of electrical characteristic information and usage history information on the secondary battery module or the assembled battery, first communications interface, second communications interface, a control circuit for controlling reading and writing of the battery information from and into the battery information storage and a housing is protected by the application. ^ With the document numbered PCT / US2011 / 040077, the invention that is patented; - The invention has A battery management system (BMS) for managing a battery in an electric vehicle, the apparatus comprising: a BMS computer, a voltage sensor, connected to the BMS computer, for measuring battery voltage, a current sensor, connected to the BMS computer, for measuring battery current and programming that is executable on the BMS computer for performing. - Said BMS in the document numbered PCT / US2011 / 040077, wherein the battery state of charge (SOC) determined without using a schematic model of the battery. - The invention of the document PCT / US2011 / 040077 is to create a "smart" electric vehicle that includes a computer and software that runs on the computer. The subject of the present invention is a state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network, which has been developed to improve the solutions offered in the documents and applications existing in the known state of the art and to eliminate the existing disadvantages. The invention we are introducing aims to address several critical issues within the realm of battery technology and power supply. These issues include: 1. Rigid Battery Structures: One significant problem we're tackling is the inherent inflexibility of fixed battery structures. These conventional setups lack the ability to adapt to changing load requirements. Moreover, they do not offer the capability to disconnect damaged or weak battery cells. When any cell in the battery pack is compromised, it necessitates the replacement of the entire battery pack, incurring additional costs. 2. Limited Reconfigurability: Existing reconfigurable battery structures often suffer from limited flexibility in controlling the connections between battery cells. Our innovation aims to provide a more versatile solution, allowing for dynamic adjustments and optimization of cell connections. 3. Battery Cell Health Preservation: Overcharging and over-discharging are common issues that can severely damage battery cells. Our invention incorporates advanced monitoring and protection mechanisms to safeguard against these detrimental processes, extending the lifespan of the battery system. 4. Continuous Power Supply: Some systems currently lack the ability to replace a disconnected or malfunctioning battery cell with a functional one. This deficiency results in an inadequate power supply, falling short of the required demand. Our invention addresses this by ensuring a seamless transition to alternative power sources, preventing interruptions in power delivery. 5. Backup Power Systems: In scenarios where the primary battery system fails to deliver power, certain systems lack an alternative power source to pick up the slack. Our innovation includes built-in backup systems, providing uninterrupted power supply even in the face of battery failures. 6. Adaptive Load Management: Lastly, our invention focuses on adapting to changing load requirements over time. Unlike traditional systems that struggle to keep pace with evolving power needs, our technology incorporates intelligent load management, optimizing power distribution based on real-time demands. In summary, our invention is designed to revolutionize battery technology by addressing these critical challenges, offering a more adaptable, reliable, and efficient power supply solution for various applications and industries. Brief Description of the Invention This invention comes up with a new way to get the required voltage by using a special set of battery cells called a reconfigurable energy enhanced architecture (REEA). By putting battery cells next to each other and not next to each other, this architecture creates new hybrid (parallel and series) configurations. So, it can be changed to meet all of the system's needs and get around any problems that might come up. This invention also introduces a novel strategy for preventing battery cell damage caused by overcharging and over-discharging. This is achieved by carefully observing the behavior of all battery cells in response to all operations. These operations are the optimization process, the charging process, and the discharging process, which are coordinated through a set of algorithms known as the battery management and balancing system BMS. These algorithms work on determining the required state of each battery: charge, discharge, or idle. There is also a proposal for a new way to charge battery cells that would save money and keep power from going to waste when transformers are used. This method depends on connecting the battery cells directly to the charging source. Through an algorithm, each battery cell can be charged independently until its maximum limit is reached. Then, according to the BMS, a designed switching system will automatically disconnect this battery cell from the charging circuit, leaving it in its proper state, whether it is in a discharging state or an idle state. This invention also shows how important it is to replace a low-charge battery cell with another battery cell that is ready and waiting. This process is available for series, parallel, and hybrid configurations. In a hybrid configuration, the common battery cell that adjoins the different connections is replaced first if it is a low-charge battery cell. Another new feature is the optimization of voltage to find the best way to set up the discharging process. It contributes to maintaining constant voltage in vehicles and guards against potential damage from fluctuating voltage. This optimization method figures out the best way to set up the system so that the voltage load stays at the right level over time. First, this optimization algorithm uses a tree structure to consider all of the possible ways that any number “n” of battery cells could be set up in the REEA. Also, the best configuration will be chosen based on the required voltage, the state of charge and the voltage of each battery cell, as well as the percentage of voltage error. Detailed Description of the Invention Visuals of the state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network that was realized to achieve the objectives of this invention are shown in the attached figures. From these figures; Figure - 1 The procedure steps of the technical part of state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network Figure - 1.1 Structure of REEA switching control of state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network Figure - 2 Reconfigurable Energy Enhanced Architecture (REEA) of state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network Figure – 2.1 REEA for 7 battery cells of state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network Figure – 2.2 The series configuration using adjacent and non-adjacent battery cells of state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network Figure – 2.3 The parallel configuration by using adjacent and non-adjacent battery cells of state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network Figure – 2.4 P-S configuration by using adjacent and non-adjacent battery cells for both series (S) and parallel (P) connections of state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network Figure – 2.5 P-P-S configuration by using the adjacent and non-adjacent battery cells for both S and P connections of state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network Figure – 2.6 S-S-P configuration by using the adjacent and non-adjacent battery cells for both S and P connections of state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network Figure – 2.7 MS-P configuration by using the adjacent and non-adjacent battery cells for both S and P connections; where M is equal 3. Figure - 3 The main algorithm structure of the battery management system (BMS) of state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network Figure – 4.1 Battery charging architecture of state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network Figure - 4.2 The structure algorithm of the battery discharging system of state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network Figure - 5 Supply the system with an external voltage source (Vs2) of state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network Figure - 6 Main algorithm structure of the optimization algorithm of state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network Figure - 7 Structure of battery configuration optimization algorithm of state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network Figure - 8 Tree structure of connecting any number (n) of battery cells of state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network Figure - 8.1 Tree structure for four battery cells of state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network Figure - 9.1 Algorithm 1.1: Battery configuration type. Figure - 9.2 Algorithm 1.2: Switching control of the S connection. Figure - 9.3 Algorithm 1.3 Switching control of the P connection. Figure - 9.4 Algorithm 1.4: Switching Control in a combination of S and P connections. Figure - 9.5 Algorithm 1.5: Special case of the S connection. Figure - 9.6 Algorithm 2: Battery balancing algorithm. Figure - 9.7 Algorithm 3: Charging switching control. Figure - 9.8 Algorithm 4: Next state of the battery configuration type. Figure - 9.9 Algorithm 5.1: Low-charge common battery cell replacement. Figure - 9.10 Algorithm 5.2: Low-charge battery cell replacement in S and P connections Figure - 9.11 Algorithm 6: Supplying the system with an external voltage source (Vs2). Figure - 9.12 Algorithm 7: Required Voltage Optimization Algorithm. Figure - 9.13 Algorithm 8: Optimization based on the voltage error ratio (Eper). Figure - 9.14 Algorithm 9: Optimization based upon positive or negative voltage error Figure - 9.15 Algorithm 10: Optimization based on increasing the voltage error ratio Figure - 9.16 Algorithm 11: Optimization based on state of charge (SOC). Figure - 9.17 Algorithm 12: The configuration using the digital numbers. The parts included in the visuals of the invention the state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network are named in the attached figures as follows: B Battery cell / cells B1First battery cell B2Second battery cell B3 Third battery cell B4 Fourth battery cell B5 Fifth battery cell B6Sixth battery cell B7Seventh battery cell Bn-1One before the last battery cell BnLast battery cell BCCommon battery cell SW Switch Set SW1 Switch-1 SW2 Switch-2 SW3Switch-3 SW4Switch-4 SW5Switch-5 SW6 Switch-6 SW7 Switch-7 SWn-1 Switch-(n-1) SWnSwitch-n SN Negative Switch Set SN1 Negative Switch-1 SN2 Negative Switch-2 SN3 Negative Switch-3 SN4 Negative Switch-4 SN5Negative Switch-5 SN6Negative Switch-6 SN7 Negative Switch-7 SNn-1 Negative Switch-(n-1) SNn Negative Switch-n SL Left Switch Set SL1Left Switch-1 SL2Left Switch-2 SL3 Left Switch-3 SL4 Left Switch-4 SL5 Left Switch-5 SL6Left Switch-6 SL7Left Switch-7 SLn-1 Left Switch-(n-1) SP Positive Switch Set SP1 Positive Switch-1 SP2 Positive Switch-2 SP3Positive Switch-3 SP4Positive Switch-4 SP5 Positive Switch-5 SP6 Positive Switch-6 SP7 Positive Switch-7 SPn-1Positive Switch-(n-1) SPnPositive Switch-n SR Right Switch Set SR1 Right Switch-1 SR2 Right Switch-2 SR3 Right Switch-3 SR4Right Switch-4 SR5Right Switch-5 SR6 Right Switch-6 SR7 Right Switch-7 SRn-1 Right Switch-(n-1) SbatBattery Switch RLLoad Resistor Lp Lp switch Cp Switching Control Set Cp1 Switching Control -1 Cp2 Switching Control -2 Cp3Switching Control -3 Cpn-1Switching Control -(n-1) Cpn Switching Control -n Vs1 Charging Voltage Source Vs2 External Voltage Source En End Node P Parallel Connection S Series Connection S1 First Branch of Series Connection S2 Second Branch of Series Connection SM-1 One Before the Last Branch of Series Connection SMLast Branch of Series Connection Battery cells (B) are set up to meet the needs of a device or application using an architecture that was made just for this purpose. Depending on what the application needs, the architecture can be set up in different ways, such as in series, parallel, or hybrid. Through the optimization algorithm, the difference between what is needed and what is given is also kept to a minimum. With this algorithm, the most optimized configuration is chosen so that high performance can be achieved. In addition to the battery management system (BMS) that works on protecting the battery cells and the entire system from overcharging and over-discharging, there is an algorithmic control system. This algorithm sets the mode of each battery cell (B) as charging, discharging, or idle according to its parameters and load requirements. Figure 1 shows, by blocks, the procedure steps for the system, which are divided into three main parts: reconfigurable battery architecture, battery management system (BMS), and the optimization algorithm. Figure 1 shows the procedure steps from the primary input of the system to the primary output of the entire system. The primary inputs to the system are the battery cell parameters, the load requirements, the voltage error ratio, and the runtime that is needed to supply the requirements. The primary output is the power that is supplied to the load as needed. In addition to the new parameters of the battery cells (B), which will be the new state of the input for the next time step. The primary inputs and outputs are depicted in the main block diagram, while the auxiliary inputs and outputs will be comprehensively elucidated within the individual explanations and algorithms for each respective system or block. A reconfigurable energy-enhanced architecture (REEA) is designed for any number (n) of battery cells (B) to configure multiple types of configurations series (S), parallel (P), or hybrid by using adjacent and non-adjacent battery cells (B) to meet all the load requirements. This architecture is able to disconnect a weak battery cell (B) and replace it with another one. Setting each battery cell (B) in the REEA in its correct state, whether it is charging, discharging, or idle. The battery management system (BMS) is responsible for this. Therefore, all the battery cells (B) will be protected from the damage caused by overcharging and over-discharging. Replace any disconnected battery cell (B) that is weak, damaged, or low-charge with a battery cell (B) that is ready to start the process of discharging. The BMS also makes this possible. Each battery cell (B) can be connected directly to the charging circuit whenever it needs to be charged. Each battery cell (B) is controlled individually, without the effect of the other battery cells (B). Therefore, each battery cell will be connected to the battery system if it is needed or to the charging circuit according to its state of charge. The maximum and minimum charge values of the battery cells (B) can be the same or different. Providing the fixed or variable load with its fixed or variable needs at fixed or variable time intervals. Out of all the configurations that can be made with n battery cells (B) in the REEA, the best one for meeting the load requirements will be chosen. In the optimization algorithm, if there isn't a configuration based on the voltage error ratio, this ratio will be slowly increased until a configuration that can supply the load is found. A backup system to provide power to the load when the main battery system isn't able to. Generate the required voltage from the system over a certain amount of time, even if the connections change because of the state of charge (SOC). RECONFIGURABLE ENERGY ENHANCED ARCHITECTURE (REEA) Figure 2 shows REEA to define or redefine the connection status of the battery cells. This architecture can be implemented for n battery cells (B); whereas, each battery cell (B) requires different switches to connect it to the main circuit that connect the battery cells (B) together and with the load “RL”. The first switch set known by a positive switch (SP) connects the positive terminals of each battery cell (B) except the first one to the right switches (SR). The first switch in the positive switch (SP) set represented by positive switch-1 (SP1) is directly connected to the positive terminal of the Load Resistor (RL) through the battery switch (Sbat). Therefore, the total number of positive switches (SP) is n. The second switch set known by a negative switch (SN) connects the negative terminals of each battery cell (B) except the last one to the left switch (SL); where the last negative switch (SNn) connects directly to the negative terminal of the Load Resistor (RL). Therefore, the total number of negative switches (SN) is n. The third switch set (SW) connects the negative terminal of each battery cell to the positive terminal of the next adjacent battery cell (B); therefore, the number of third switch set (SW) is one less than the number of battery cells (B) (i.e., n-1). The fourth switch set is known by the right switch (SR). This set is along the battery cells (B) on the right side of the architecture. This set connects the positive switch (SP) set of switches to each other before connecting them to the positive terminal of the Load Resistor (RL) by the battery switch (Sbat) except for the first switch of positive switch (SP). Therefore, the total number of right switches (SR) is n-1. The last set of switches is the left switch (SL). It is introduced alongside the negative terminals of the battery cells. This set connects the negative switch (SN) set of switches to each other before connecting them to the negative terminal of the Load Resistor (RL) except for the last switch of negative switch (SN). Therefore, the total number of left switches (SL) is n-1. As a result, the total number of switches according to the n number of battery cells (B) without including the battery switch (Sbat) is 2n+3(n-1), which it is equal to 5n-3. This architecture has the ability to connect adjacent and non-adjacent battery cells (B) in order to configure multiple types of series (S), parallel (P), and hybrid configurations. This is achieved by the algorithm control that is responsible for setting all the switches shown in REEA in a closed or open state to create the required configuration. Battery cells (B) in REEA are individually connected to sensors for determining the state of charge and voltage. The determined data is sent to the battery management system (described later) and the optimization algorithm (described later). REEA switching control To achieve the configurations shown in Table 1, the switching control of REEA is implemented by algorithms 1.1 to 1.4. Figure 1.1 shows the structure of the REEA switching control. The input of this algorithm structure is the battery configuration that is required to be connected by the REEA. The output of the switch states whether it is closed or open. As shown in Figure 1.1, four algorithms are utilized to determine the status of all the switches in REEA in order to connect the desired battery configuration: ^ Algorithm 1.1: Battery configuration type (Figure - 9.1) ^ Algorithm 1.2: Switching control of the S connection (Figure - 9.2) ^ Algorithm 1.3: Switching control of the P connection (Figure - 9.3) ^ Algorithm 1.4: Switching control in a combination of S and P connections (Figure - 9.4) In Algorithm 1.1 (Figure - 9.1), the battery configuration will be divided into two parts: series (S) and parallel (P). Depending upon each connection, the switch's status, whether closed or open, is automatically determined. Moreover, the switch status determined by algorithms 1.2 and 1.3 (Figure - 9.2 and Figure - 9.3) is later used in algorithm 1.4 (Figure - 9.4). This final state represents the complete status of the circuit according to the desired battery configuration. - Algorithm of the battery configuration type The input for the battery configuration type algorithm is the battery configuration itself. This configuration is represented by the battery cells connected in series as SERr, the battery cells connected in parallel as PARr, and the battery configuration type as BSr. The output parameters are defined as BSer, BPar, Parallel, Series, and m. The BSer and BPar represent the battery cells connected in series (S) and parallel (P), respectively. Moreover, the Series represents whether or not there is a series connection in the configuration. The Parallel represents whether or not there is a parallel connection in the configuration. Lastly, m represents the total number of the series branches. Some configurations, as shown in Table 1 uses more than one branch of series connection. Thus, the total number of the series branches (m) must be known in prior. Algorithm 1.1 (Figure - 9.1) is dependent on the battery configuration type BSr, where the battery cells used in the configuration will be classified in a right manner. Moreover, there will be two cases according to the total number of series branches (m): 1) For m = 1 and the configuration type according to BSr is S, only Series is activated by using only one series branch BSer1. Otherwise, only Parallel is activated if the configuration type is P. However, if the configuration type is hybrid, (i.e., using both series and parallel), then both connections are activated. 2) For m > 1, the configuration type will be a virtual hybrid configuration using both connections. Using Algorithm 1.1 (Figure - 9.1), only Series is activated which is sufficient for this configuration. In case of multiple S branches, they are represented by BSer1... BSerm. - Algorithm of switching control of the S connection The input of Algorithm 1.2 (Figure - 9.2) is defined as Series, BSer, and m, while the output of this algorithm is the switching control of the S connection, including the new sets of switches SPS, SNS, SRS, SLS, and SWS. This algorithm depends upon activating or deactivating the necessary switches in the reconfigurable architecture according to the connection required for each S branch. Lastly, the status of all switches is combined to form a final set of states represented by SPS, SNS, SRS, SLS, and SWS. - Algorithm of switching control of the P connection The input to Algorithm 1.3 (Figure - 9.3) is Parallel and BPar, while the output is the switching control of the parallel (P) connection, including the new sets of switches, SPP, SNP, SRP, SLP, and SWP. This algorithm helps to activate the necessary switches in the reconfigurable architecture according to the battery cells involved in the P connection. - Algorithm for switching control in a combination of S and P connections Algorithm 1.4 (Figure - 9.4) takes as input the switching control of both series (S) and parallel (P) connections from algorithms 1.2 and 1.3 (Figure - 9.2 and Figure - 9.3), as well as the number of series branches (m) and the configuration type BSr. Moreover, the output is defined as the switching control of SP, SN, SR, SL, and SW switches, whether closed or open, according to the battery configuration mentioned in Algorithm 1.1 (Figure - 9.1). REEA configurations The reconfigurable energy-enhanced architecture (REEA) shown in Figure 2 is able to configure ten types of configurations. These configurations are explained briefly, along with their limitations, in Table 1. Each column in this table is related to an algorithm: configuration is defined by algorithm 1.1 (Figure - 9.1), series (S) connection is determined by algorithm 1.2 (Figure - 9.2), and parallel (P) connection can be made by algorithm 1.3 (Figure - 9.3). Table 1: The configurations of REEA by using n number of battery cells; where BATs is the symbol of battery cells. Table 1 lists the ten different configuration types that REEA can support. All these configurations can be configured without any limitations, except for the last configuration. For more explanation: ^ For the P connection: o The P connection can be made with battery cells that are next to each other or far away from each other. This can be done in any of the following configurations: P, Series-Parallel “S-P”, Multi Series-Multi Parallel “MS-MP”, P-S, MP-MS, P-P-S, and MP-US, where U stands for M-1. o In all these configurations, the number of battery cells used in the multi-parallel connections “MP” can be equal for all the parallel branches or unequal. o In S-S-P and MS-P configurations, the parallel connection depends on the series connection. As shown in Figures 2.6 and 2.7, the series branches are connected from the positive terminal of the Load Resistor (RL) to the negative terminal of it. This connection in turn connects the parallel connection of the S-S-P and MS- P configurations. ^ For the S connection: o The used battery cells can be adjacent or non-adjacent in configurations such as S, S-P, MS-MP, P-S, MP-MS, P-P-S, MP-US, and S-S-P, except for the last configuration, MS-P. o In MS-P configuration, the first branch of the series connection “S1” can use the adjacent or non-adjacent battery cells (B) by using the left side of REEA, i.e., the sets of Negative switches (SN) and Left switches (SL). The last branch of the series connection “SM” can also use the adjacent or non-adjacent battery cells, but only by using the right side of the circuit, i.e., the sets of Positive switches (SP) and Right switches (SR). For the second series branch “S2” to one before the last branch “SM-1”, the configuration is defined only by using the adjacent battery cells. o Using the left side of the architecture, the first series branch (S1) of S-S-P can be made between battery cells that are next to each other or between battery cells that are not next to each other. This is the same as the MS-P configuration. The second series branch (S2) of S-S-P is also possible between adjacent or non- adjacent battery cells, but by using the right side only of REEA. o By adding an extra algorithm (Algorithm 1.5 (Figure - 9.5)) to the switching control of the S connection algorithm (Algorithm 2 (Figure - 9.6)), the right side of REEA could be used to connect the last series branch in S-S-P and MS-P configurations. This extra algorithm depends in part on the results of the above connections after some changes have been made. Minimum steps of REEA The minimum number of steps to define the series interconnection between any two battery cells (B), form the first battery cell represented by B1 to the last battery cell represented by Bn, based on REEA is shown in Table 2. REEA can describe how any two battery cells (B) can connect directly to each other without involving any other battery cells (B). Hence, any non- adjacent battery cells (B) can become adjacent by controlling the status of the switches in the REEA. Table 2 Minimum steps of REEA between all battery cells. The configurations connection Figure 2.1 shows the REEA for 7 battery cells (B). By using this structure, various configurations will be illustrated. For more detail, the structure includes six switches for each of the Right Switches (SR), Left Switches (SL), and switches SW. In addition to 7 switches for each of the Positive Switches (SP) and Negative Switches (SN) switches, Therefore, the total number of switches without including the Battery Switch (Sbat) is 32 switches for 7 battery cells (B). The series configuration illustrated in Figure 2.2 uses adjacent and non-adjacent battery cells (B). Figure 2.2 shows that the first battery cell (B1), the second battery cell (B2), the fourth battery cell (B4) and the sixth battery cell (B6) are connected in series. The closed switches that connect this configuration are represented by ellipse shapes. The parallel configuration illustrated in Figure 2.3 uses adjacent and non-adjacent battery cells. Figure 2.3 shows that the third battery cell (B3), the fifth battery cell (B5) and the sixth battery cell (B6) are connected in parallel. The closed switches that connect this configuration are represented by ellipse shapes. The P-S (Parallel-Series) configuration illustrated in Figure 2.4 uses adjacent and non-adjacent battery cells (B) for both series (S) and parallel (P) connections. Figure 2.4 shows that the first battery cell (B1), third battery cell (B3) and the fourth battery cell (B4) are for parallel connection; the fourth battery cell (B4), sixth battery cell (B6) and seventh battery cell (B7) are for series connection. the fourth battery cell (B4) is the common battery cell (BC) in this configuration. The closed switches that connect this configuration are represented by ellipse shapes. The P-P-S (Parallel- Parallel-Series) configuration illustrated in Figure 2.5 uses adjacent and non-adjacent battery cells (B) for both series (S) and parallel (P) connections. Figure 2.5 shows that first battery cell (B1) and third battery cell (B3) are for the first parallel connection; third battery cell (B3), the fourth battery cell (B4) and sixth battery cell (B6) are for the series connection; and sixth battery cell (B6) and seventh battery cell (B7) are for the second parallel connection. third battery cell (B3) and sixth battery cell (B6) represent the common battery cells (BC) in this configuration. The closed switches that connect this configuration are represented by ellipse shapes. The S-S-P (Series-Series- Parallel) configuration illustrated in Figure 2.6 uses adjacent and non- adjacent battery cells for both series (S) and parallel (P) connections. Figure 2.6 shows that first battery cell (B1), third battery cell (B3) and fourth battery cell (B4) are for the first series branch (S1); fifth battery cell (B5) and seventh battery cell (B7) are for the second series branch (S2). The closed switches to connect the first series branch are represented by the ellipse shapes, and this connection is made by using the left side of the circuit. The closed switches to connect the second series branch are represented by the rectangle shapes, and this connection is made by using the right side of the circuit. The MS-P (Multi Series-Parallel) configuration illustrated in Figure 2.7 uses adjacent and non- adjacent battery cells (B), where M is equal 3. In the MS-P configuration, the variable M plays a crucial role. M signifies the total count of connection branches within this configuration. These branches can take one of these forms: series connections (S) or parallel connections (P) or both. Imagine the MS-P configuration as a network of electrical or electronic components. Each connection branch is like a path or route within this network. M simply tells us how many of these paths or branches exist in the configuration. In general, if M is equal to 3, it means there are three such branches, which could be for series connection or parallel connection or for each one of them, depending on the configuration type. For MS-P configuration, M is equal to 3, it means there are three branches just for the series connection and one branch for the parallel connection. So, M helps us understand the complexity and structure of the connections in the hybrid configurations (mixed of series and parallel connections). Figure 2.7 shows that first battery cell (B1) and the second battery cell (B2) are for the first series branch (S1); third battery cell (B3) and fourth battery cell (B4) are for the second series branch (S2); and fifth battery cell (B5) and seventh battery cell (B7) are for the third series branch (S3). The closed switches to connect the first series branch are represented by the ellipse shapes, and this connection is made by using the left side of the circuit. The closed switches to connect the third series branch are represented by the rectangle shapes, and this connection is made by using the right side of the circuit. Finally, the closed switches to connect the second series branch are represented by diamond shapes. Figure 2.7 shows that the middle series branches of the MS-P configuration (i.e., S2) should be connected by using the adjacent battery cells only. BATTERY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (BMS) Battery management—balancing, charging, and discharging—is controlled by an algorithm. This control scheme sets the mode of each battery cell as charging, discharging, or idle according to its state of charge (SOC) and required voltage “Vr”. Figure 3 shows the structure of the algorithm used for management. The inputs to this algorithm control, as shown in Figure 3, are the current state of each battery cell in the REEA, SOC of all battery cells (SOCs), the minimum charge value “SOCmin” and the maximum charge value “SOCmax”, and the battery configuration which is the output of the optimization algorithm. The main output is the next state of the battery configuration, which will be the input of the switching control of REEA. - Battery balancing system The battery balancing system is in charge of putting each battery cell (B) in the right state based on its own SOC. The battery balancing algorithm, as shown in Algorithm 2 (Figure - 9.6), compares the SOC of each battery cell (B) to the minimum charge value (SOCmin) and maximum charge value (SOCmax) that have been given. Also, the battery balancing algorithm lets you choose whether the minimum and maximum charge values for all battery cells are the same values or different values from one battery cell to another. The battery balancing algorithm describes how to determine the next state mode of the battery cell whether it is charge “CHARGE”, discharge “LOAD”, or idle “IDLE”. The first two states, represented by CHARGE and LOAD are defined using this algorithm; whereas, the third state (IDLE) is determined in the other sections. The status of the battery cells is determined by comparing the SOC of each battery cell at every time stamp with the minimum and maximum charge values (SOCmin and SOCmax) as shown in Table 3. Table 3: The three states of the battery balancing system. In Table 3, the comparison made is further classified into three cases: ^ First, if the SOC is greater than or equal to SOCmax, the next state of the battery cell is the discharge state (LOAD). ^ Second, if the SOC is less than or equal to SOCmin, the next state of the battery cell is the charge state (CHARGE). ^ Lastly, if the SOC is between SOCmin and SOCmax, the next state of this battery cell is the same as its current state, whether it is CHARGE or LOAD. Mainly, algorithm 2 (Figure - 9.6) toggles the battery cell state between charging and discharging. It is worth mentioning that not necessarily all battery cells will be in the discharge state at the same time. Minimum and maximum charge values: The battery balancing system allows the user to control the charge or discharge values represented by SOCmin and SOCmax. Thus, instead of defining the same values for all battery cells, each of these variables can be written to have distinct values for each battery cell. Therefore, each battery cell can act independently and be managed separately. For multiple battery cells (B), this information is stored as one- dimensional variables defined over an n vector, denoted as SOCmin and SOCmax ∈ R^(n). Then, the SOC of any battery cell will be compared to the charge values given for that battery cell. - Battery charging system In this invention, an effort is made to develop a charging system that is easier to implement and easier to understand, as shown in Figure 4.1. This system is made up of a charging voltage source “Vs1” and a switching control set (Cp) that connects each battery shown in the REEA (Figure 2) to charging voltage source (Vs1) in parallel. This configuration is introduced to ensure that each battery cell is connected to the source directly whenever needed, without depending on the connections of other battery cells. The charging switching control algorithm (Algorithm 3 (Figure - 9.7)) depends mainly on the CHARGE state information taken from the battery balancing algorithm (Algorithm 2 (Figure - 9.6)). The output of this switching control is the Cp state which represents the switches that connect all battery cells in REEA in a parallel connection to the charging source (Vs1) as shown in figure 4. The charging switching control is considered the easiest algorithm control in the system. Its function is to activate the switching control set (Cp) state for each battery cell that needs to be charged. - Battery discharging system To generate the required voltage (Vr) through a battery network, it has to be configured with the help of a switching control algorithm. Figure 4.2 shows the structure algorithm of the battery discharging system in detail. The main steps required to fulfill the requirement in the battery discharging system are divided into two parts: ^ The next state of the battery configuration type The next state of the battery configuration type represents the first part of the battery discharging algorithm as shown in Figure 4.2. The next state battery configuration of the current battery configuration is determined using Algorithm 4 (Figure - 9.8). The next state battery configuration is described by battery cells connected in series “SER”, in parallel “PAR”, and the configuration type “Bs”. The current battery configuration that is utilized as an input to this algorithm is the outcome of the optimization algorithm, while the output is the next state of the battery configuration. The configuration determined using Algorithm 4 (Figure - 9.8) is compared to LOAD, which is the output of the battery balancing algorithm (Algorithm 2 (Figure - 9.6)). The main process of Algorithm 4 (Figure - 9.8) is to remove any battery cell from the current battery configuration if its state is not the LOAD state. Based on this, the type of battery configuration may or may not change. The output of Algorithm 4 (Figure - 9.8) is determined as the activity of the connections SER, PAR, and Bs. As a result, the battery cells in LOAD state will be divided into two states; battery cells in discharging state and battery cells available for discharging (i.e., IDLE). ^ The low-charge battery cell replacement The battery management system (BMS) is also responsible for replacing the disconnected battery cell in the current configuration with an available battery cell ready for the discharging process. This is achieved in order to keep supplying the load according to its requirements over the entire operating time. The replacement process will be done in series, parallel, and hybrid configurations. In hybrid configurations, the common battery cell (BC) that connects the different connection types together will be replaced first if it is disconnected. After that, the disconnected battery cells from the series and parallel connections of the hybrid configuration will be replaced. Before discussing the replacement process of a low-charge battery cell in any configuration, the common battery cell (BC) in the hybrid configurations should first be discussed when it has a low charge. Figure 4.2 shows the structure algorithm of the low-charge battery cell replacement in Series, Parallel and Hybrid configurations. The common battery cell (BC) in the hybrid configuration is the battery cell that acts as a common node between two types of connections. The number of common battery cells (BC) varies from configuration to configuration; for example, in an S-P or P-S configuration, there is only one common battery cell (BC). Moreover, in P-P-S configuration, there are two common battery cells (BC). In S-S-P, there is a common point instead of a common battery cell (BC). These different states of the common battery cells (BC) are also used to define the number of connection branches. Table 4 shows the common battery cells (BC) in hybrid configurations. Table 4: Common battery cell in hybrid configurations, where U = M-1. It can be observed from Table 4 that the common battery cell (BC) is overlapping in both series and parallel connections. On the other hand, non-hybrid configurations series (S) and parallel (P) connections have no common battery cells (BC) because these configurations consist of only one connection branch. In Table 4, Bfirst and Blast represent the first and last battery cell in a configuration, regardless of the number of connection branches. The common battery cells (BC) are represented by BC1, BC2, BC3, …, BC8-2, BC8-1, BCg, where g represents the number of common battery cells (BC) in a hybrid configuration with multi-connection branches “M”. The last two configurations in the table define the hybrid configurations with a common point. For S-S-P, the overall connection is split into two; from Bfirstto Bl1and from Bf1to Blast. For MS-P, the overall connection is split into M branches; from Bfirstto Bl1, from Bf1to Bl2, …, and from BfUto Blast. - Low-charge common battery cell replacement In a hybrid configuration, the SOC of the common battery cell (BC) is used to decide if it should be taken out of the mainstream. If it is removed, it must be replaced with a new battery cell. For the hybrid configuration where the common battery cell (BC) is not included, the configuration type must be accurately determined before searching for a new common battery cell (BC). This can be achieved by determining the last battery cell position of each series (S) and parallel (P) connection, represented by j and w, respectively. Afterward, a determination regarding their occurrence is required. Finally, based on the configuration type, the new common battery cell (BC) is picked. To be obvious, if Bs is an S-P configuration, the first battery cell in the P connection will be the last battery cell in the S connection. If Bs is P-S, the last battery cell in the P connection is the first battery cell in the S connection. For S-S-P, MS-MP, P-P-S, MP-MS, and MS-UP configurations, there are more than one common battery cells (BC). The total number of these battery cells depends on the change of the connection from series (S) to parallel (P), or from parallel (P) to series (S) in the mentioned hybrid configurations. The same method of replacing the common battery cell (BC) in S-P or P-S, will be used in the mentioned configurations. The last battery cell position in each connection before moving to another connection in the same configuration will be saved as j1, j2, etc. in the S connection, and as w1, w2, etc. in the P connection. From these details, the new common battery cells (BC) can be determined. Also, these assigned new common battery cells and the existing ones can be saved as BC1, BC2, ..., BCg. The outputs, SERc, PARc, and BSc, of Algorithm 5.1 (Figure - 9.9) are defined after the replacement of the low-charge common battery cell. SERc represents the battery cells (B) connected in series, PARc represents the battery cells connected in parallel, and BSc represents the battery configuration type. - Low-charge battery cell replacement in S and P connections The low-charge battery cell is cut off from the rest of the circuit by the battery balancing system while it is draining. In this case, this battery cell is swapped out for an available one (unused or in an IDLE state) if it exists. The availability of the battery cell for replacement depends on the locations of the first and last battery cells in each connection. It means that the replacement battery cell must be one of the battery cells between the first (B1) and last battery cell (Bn) in each connection of the configuration. Algorithm 5.2 (Figure - 9.10) shows how to change a low-charge battery cell in a series (S) or parallel (P) connection in three steps. The first one works on introducing the first (B1) and last battery cell (Bn) in each connection based on BSr. In the S connection, the first battery cell (B1) is shown by SFrom, and the last battery cell by STo. On the other hand, PFromand PTostand for the first (B1) and last battery cell (Bn) in the P connection. The second and third parts try to find the available battery cell between SFrom and STo in the S connection, and between PFromand PToin the P connection. The configuration input of this algorithm will be a series configuration, a parallel configuration, or a hybrid configuration using a common point represented by SER, PAR, and Bs. Another input is a hybrid configuration using a common battery cell (BC) represented by SERc and PARc, and BSc. The Cp state is also considered as an input to this algorithm. The configuration outputs after the replacement of the low-charge battery cell in series (S) and parallel (P) connections are represented by three parameters: SERr represents the battery cells connected in series; PARr represents battery cells (B) connected in parallel; and the battery configuration type BSr. This configuration is also defined as an input for Algorithm 1.1 (Figure - 9.1). As a special case, if parallel (P) connection represented by PARr in S-P or P-S configuration is active with only one battery cell, parallel (P) connection will be un-active. This is due to the unavailability of enough battery cells to form at least one parallel (P) connection. Thus, the new configuration type will be the series (S) configuration. In the same manner, the configuration type is changed from hybrid to parallel (P) if series (S) connection only has one battery cell. The same procedure will happen in a hybrid configuration with multi-connected branches in series (S) or parallel (P). For example, if a series branch must be removed from a hybrid configuration MS-MP because of lack of enough battery cells to make that branch, the resulting new configuration type after removing this branch will be US-MP, where U=M-1. Also, the battery cells of the removed branch should be removed from the connection whether it is in the SERr or PARr. Types of configurations: ^ Non-hybrid configurations: Series (S) and Parallel (P). ^ Hybrid configuration with a common battery cell: S-P, P-S, P-P-S, MS-MP, MP-MS, and MP-US; where U is M-1. ^ Hybrid configuration with a common point: S-S-P and MS-P. - Low-charge battery cell replacement in S-S-P and MS-P configurations The battery cell replacement in the hybrid configuration with a common point as S-S-P and MS- P depends on the position of the series branch in these configurations. Algorithm 5.2 (Figure - 9.10) shows the steps of this replacement. In the first series branch (S1), it is easy to replace because this branch uses adjacent and non- adjacent battery cells. In other words, the left-side switches represented by SL and SN of REEA are used to connect this branch. However, in the last series branch (SM), it is easy to replace the removed battery cell with an available one if the right-side switches represented by SR and SP of REEA are used to connect this branch. Thus, this series branch can be connected by using adjacent or non-adjacent battery cells. Otherwise, this branch will be disconnected if even one battery cell is disconnected from it. The other branches from the second one (S2) to before the last one (SM-1) will also be disconnected in case a battery cell or more is separated from them. Due to the use of the adjacent battery cells only in these branches. Therefore, there will be no ability to replace the removed battery cell with another one. The disconnection of these branches is necessary to maintain the voltage in the absence of a replacement battery cell. In the event that the battery cell returns to discharge, the series branch will be returned to the connection. SUPPLYING THE LOAD WITH AN EXTERNAL VOLTAGE SOURCE In the event that all n battery cells of the reconfigurable architecture REEA are involved in the charging process, an external voltage source “Vs2” will supply the system with a constant voltage as shown in Figure 5. This process is repeated until at least one battery cell becomes available for discharging process. This operation is controlled by the Lp switch (Lp), the status of which is determined by Algorithm 6 (Figure - 9.11). OPTIMIZATION ALGORITHM The optimization algorithm is responsible for selecting the most suitable configuration to provide the required voltage (Vr) from the configurations provided by the n battery cells in the REEA. Figure 6 shows the main algorithm structure of the optimization algorithm. This algorithm, as shown in Figure 6, is divided into two main parts: “The required voltage optimization algorithm” and “Battery configuration optimization algorithm”. The required voltage optimization algorithm: The required load voltage is defined using the voltage division “VD”. VD represents all the required voltages that must be supplied to the system over the runtime “t”. Each one of these voltages must be supplied to the system over a period of time given by the time division “TD”. VD may include a single required voltage or multiple required voltages. Vr is the output of this algorithm, which represents the required voltage that must be supplied to the system through the current time. The goal of Algorithm 7 (Figure - 9.12) is to choose the required voltage from VD based on the time interval given by TD. Both VD and TD represent the inputs to this algorithm, whereas the output is represented by the required voltage (Vr). In this algorithm, time plays a critical role; therefore, at each time stamp, a comparison is made between the runtime (t) and the time intervals specified in TD. If t exceeds a specified time period, the next voltage from VD is defined as the required voltage Vr. Battery configuration optimization algorithm: The optimization of the battery configuration described by BSER, BPAR, and BS is based on the required voltage (Vr), and the voltages of the battery cells “VBs”, the voltage error ratio “Eper” by percentage, the state of charge of all battery cells (SOCs), and the minimum charge value (SOCmin) where BSER represents the battery cells that are connected in series, BPAR represents the battery cells that are connected in parallel, and BS represents the configuration type. To find the most efficient configuration to supply the load requirements, the structure of the battery configuration optimization algorithm shown in Figure 7 is defined in four parts: Tree structure, Optimization based on the required voltage, Optimization based on the state of charge, and the configuration using the digital numbers. These four parts are explained in detail below: 1) Tree structure Introducing the possible arrangements that can happen between n battery cells in the REEA battery structure that can be changed. Figure 8 shows how a tree structure describes all the possible ways that n battery cells (B) can be connected. In this arrangement, nodes S or P represent the connections of n battery cells (B) in series or parallel. Each shaded node in this diagram shows one of the battery cells provided by the REEA (Figure 2). Each possible connection S or P with the shaded nodes is shown as an uncolored node. Table 5 shows all the possible connections that can be made between any two battery cells in the tree, as well as the voltages that come out of each one, to make these connections even clearer. It indicates that the first battery cell (B1) is connected to all battery cells from the second battery cell (B2) to the last battery cell (Bn) in the series (S) and parallel (P) connection, and that the second battery cell (B2) is connected to all battery cells from third battery cell (B3) to last battery cell (Bn) in the series (S) and parallel (P) connection, and so on. Furthermore, each battery cell is connected to the End node (En), which symbolizes the endpoint of the connection but has no effect on it. Table 5: The connections of each battery cell represented by a colored node shown in Figure 8 Table 6 shows the possible connections between n number of battery cells in REEA according to Figure 8. For more clarification, Table 6 shows the possible configuartions for four battery cells only. Therefore, Table 6 is consedered as a special case of Table 5. Table 6: Four battery cells configuration and their output voltages. Tree structure according to battery position: The nodes of the tree structure are divided into three sections, as shown in Table 7. The primary node represented by BAY includes first battery cell (B1), the second battery cell (B2), third battery cell (B3) and fourth battery cell (B4) which represent the first battery cell in every configuration. The middle nodes sB2, pB2, sB3, pB3, sB4, and pB4 represent the battery cells involved in the configuration between the first node and the end node. The end node represented by En acts as a terminal node in each configuration. This node (En) does not affect the connection but only indicates the end of the configuration. Figure 8.1 shows the tree structure based on the node configuration in Table 7. Table 7: The tree structure nodes For all configurations, the route has to be defined from one of the starting nodes to the end node (En). The output voltage that is generated based on the connection between two battery cells is used to define the weight for each edge. The numerical weight of an edge is determined by the second battery cell's (B2) connection type to the first, as indicated in Table 8. For instance, if the second battery cell (B2) is connected to the first one, the weight is equal to the voltage of the second battery cell. If the connection is in series, this weight is added to the voltage of the first battery cell (B1); whereas, if they are connected in parallel, this weight is added to the voltage of the first battery cell (B1) as a parallel voltage. Additionally, the weight of each edge connecting any node to the output node is zero. The purpose of this node is to set the endpoint of the configuration, meaning that no other battery cell is added to this configuration. It is important to keep in mind that the voltage input value of each battery cell (B) serves as the voltage of the starting point. Table 8: Weights of edges that shown in Figure 8.1 On the other hand, Table 9 depicts the route of all configurations stated in the configuration arrangement in Table 6 in order to arrange the voltages from low to high. The configurations in this table are also shown by the positions of the used battery cells (B), not only by the battery cells (B) themselves. Depending on the number of battery cells (B) in the system, each configuration has four or fewer battery cells. These configurations are presented by FP, and the voltages of them are represented by VP. Table 9: The configuration paths of four battery cells. Table 9 shows the different levels of voltage that can be produced by using different types of configurations for the four battery cells in the REEA. These voltage levels are described below: ^ The minimum voltage level It is the minimum voltage that the load can receive from the REEA using four battery cells only. It can be supplied by using any configuration described between 1 and 15. The type of these configurations are P only. These configurations are possible by using adjacent and non-adjacent battery cells, or this voltage level can be provided by using any single battery cell. ^ The second voltage level “V2”: REEA of four battery cells can generate the second level of voltage, which is higher than Vminand lower than V3. It can be supplied by using any configuration described between 16 and 32. The types of these configurations are S, S-P, P-S, and P-P-S, using adjacent and non-adjacent battery cells. ^ The third voltage level “V3”: REEA of four battery cells can provide the third level of voltage, which is higher than V3and lower than It can be supplied by using any configuration described between 33 and 39. The types of these configurations are S, S- P, P-S, and MS-UP, using adjacent and non-adjacent battery cells. It should be noticed that M and U represent the numbers of the series and parallel branches, where U = M- ^ The maximum voltage level “Vmax”: It is the maximum voltage that the load can receive from the REEA using four battery cells only. Utilizing the configuration detailed by number 40 in Table 9, it is possible to supply the type of this configuration, which it is S configuration. This configuration is possible by only using adjacent battery cells, depending on the supplied voltage and the number of battery cells used in REEA. 2) Optimization based on the required voltage The configurations from the first step (i.e., Tree structure) will be optimized based on the required voltage (Vr) that is needed. So, to give the system a voltage that is as close as possible to Vr, the voltage error ratio is used to choose the best configuration. ^ Optimization based on the voltage error ratio: The purpose of the optimization based on the voltage error ratio is to determine if there is any configuration based on this ratio. The voltage error ratio is represented by Eper. Based on this value, the minimum and maximum required voltages will be used to figure out the range of the required voltage. So, the configurations that give these voltages and between them will be set. These configurations are saved in FPv and provided as an output of Algorithm 8 (Figure - 9.13). The voltages of each of the given configurations “VPv” are compared to the required voltage range. If the voltage falls within the required range, the configuration is selected, and the voltage error “Ve” between them is computed. The total number of the selected configurations based on the voltage error ratio is represented by e, which is considered as another output of Algorithm 8 (Figure - 9.13). Contrarily, if the voltage does not fall in the given range for any particular configuration, it is ignored. ^ Optimization based on positive or negative voltage error: The configurations determined using Algorithm 8 (Figure - 9.13) (i.e., optimization based on the voltage error ratio) are further classified based on their voltage error, positive voltage error “+Ve” or negative voltage error “-Ve”, by using Algorithm 9 (Figure - 9.14). The configuration with positive voltage error “+Ve” provides a voltage higher than Vr, while the configuration with negative voltage error “-Ve” provides a voltage lower than Vr. If the configurations have +Ve, they will be selected as the configurations that have been optimized by Vr according to the first part of this algorithm. The number of these configurations will be represented by h. If there is no configuration with +Ve at all, it means these configurations with -Ve will be taken as configurations optimized by Vr. The number of these configurations will be defined by k. The input of this algorithm is the possible configurations represented by FPv, the voltages of the given configurations represented by VPv, their voltage error represented by Ve, and the total number of configurations based on the voltage error ratio (e). The output of this algorithm is the voltage-optimized configurations “FPvoltage”, the voltages of these configurations “VPvoltage”, and their voltage errors “Vevoltage”. Also, h and k are considered as the output of this algorithm. ^ Optimization based on increasing the voltage error ratio: In the absence of configurations with a negative voltage error, the voltage error ratio (Eper) will gradually increase until a configuration is found, regardless of whether it has a positive or negative voltage error. It means that Algorithm 10 (Figure - 9.15) will be used if Algorithm 8 (Figure - 9.13) can't find any possible configurations. This scenario can be detected by e, which represents the number of paths based on the voltage error ratio (Eper), by seeing if this number is equal to zero or not. If it is true, the voltage error ratio is increased until single or multiple configurations are found to adjust to the new voltage error ratio “Eper2”. The number of newly obtained configurations is represented by inc. 3) Optimization based on the state of charge After configurations have been optimized based on the required voltage (Vr), the chosen configurations will be optimized again based on the state of charge (SOC). In this part, the minimum charge value (SOCmin) will be introduced. As a result, the configuration that has a battery cell whose SOC is equal to or less than this minimum value will be removed from the optimized configurations. Algorithm 11 (Figure - 9.16) introduces the optimization for voltage- optimized configurations (FPvoltage) based on SOC, which is further split into two parts. First, find a battery cell whose SOC is at or below the minimum charge value (SOCmin). Second, determine the configurations containing this battery cell, and then ignore this configuration. The minimum charge value for all battery cells can either be the same for all battery cells or can be a different value for each battery cell, as was previously described (In the section of minimum and maximum charge values). In this case, each battery cell will be ignored from the configuration based on its own minimum charge value. OPT represents the most efficient configuration of the voltage- and SOC-optimized configurations, which is also defined as the output of this algorithm. To identify the most efficient configuration (OPT), a rigorous selection process is employed. This selection process involves evaluating various configurations that have been optimized for voltage and state of charge (SOC). The primary criterion for this selection is to choose a configuration that closely matches the required voltage while staying within an acceptable range of voltage error. This ensures that the chosen configuration meets the specific voltage requirements while allowing for some degree of tolerance to account for real-world variations. Once the ideal configuration is identified, the battery management system (BMS) assumes a critical role. The BMS continually monitors the state of charge of individual battery cells within the selected configuration. It does so to ensure that the battery cells are operating optimally and efficiently. If any deviations from the desired state of charge are detected or if any cells exhibit irregular behavior, the BMS takes proactive measures to address these issues. These measures may include adjusting the charging or discharging rates, redistributing the load among cells, or signaling for maintenance or replacement as needed. In summary, the process of selecting the most efficient configuration involves a careful balance between voltage optimization and SOC considerations. The chosen configuration is expected to closely align with the required voltage while maintaining an acceptable voltage error. Furthermore, the vigilant oversight of the battery cells (B) by the battery management system ensures that the selected configuration continues to operate efficiently and reliably over time. 4) The configuration using the digital numbers The battery cell position will be used to choose the most efficient configuration (OPT) from the possible configurations found by the third step (i.e., optimization based on the state of charge) into a digital number. The configuration with a digital number is the result of the optimization algorithm and the main input to the battery management system. The optimal configuration chosen by Algorithm 11 (Figure - 9.16) is described by the locations of the used battery cells in series and parallel (S and P) connections. These locations are converted into digital numbers (0,1) as detailed in Algorithm 12 (Figure - 9.17). The overall process of conversion into digital numbers is divided into four parts: The information provided in Table 7 is reused in Algorithm 12 (Figure - 9.17).1, 2, 3, and 4 are examples of the start nodes (BAY) for all battery cells (B). The middle nodes are divided into two groups: the first one s represents the positions of the series connections, including 5, 7, and 9, and the second one p represents the positions of the parallel connections, including 6, 8, and 10 for all battery cells (B). - The first part finds out about the series (S) and parallel (P) connections by comparing the configuration positions with those of s and p. The battery cell is written with the appropriate connection BSER or BPAR if there is a common position. This part includes the comparison of a second battery cell in the configuration to the last one. - The second part shows the most efficient configuration (OPT) being found by comparing it to BAY. This comparison tells us that the first battery cell in the configuration is where the common battery cell (BC) is. - The third part explains how to determine the connection type series connection (S) or parallel connection (P) of the first battery cell (B). Comparing its position with series connection (S) and parallel connection (P) will allow you to identify the connection type of this battery cell (B) if the position of the second battery cell (B2) in the configuration, is known. In the event that there is no other battery cell (B) in the configuration except the first, the configuration is optimized with only one battery cell (B), which will be in BSER. - The fourth part finds out the connection type BS of the configuration and the common battery cell (BC), if it exists. To formulate BS, the status of both BSER and BPAR is evaluated as active or inactive by finding out if there are any used battery cells or not. In the case of only one being active, BS is written as either series connection (S) or parallel connection (P) according to that type of connection. However, because both are active, the connection type is identified as a hybrid. To find out this, the positions of the last used battery cells in each connection branch series (S) or parallel (P) in BSER and BPAR must first be identified; where these last used battery cells should be allocated in each connection branch before switching this connection to the other one. Next, these positions should be compared to each other to see which comes first. On the basis of this, it is possible to know which connection of series connection (S) or parallel connection (P) will be before the other in the hybrid configuration and whose type will be known in BS. Through this process, the common battery cell (BC) of the hybrid connection is found to be lying in one of these positions based on BS. To identify the dimensions of the parameters utilized in this invention, Table 10 shows the dimensions of these parameters as a matrix, vector, or a single value. Table 10: The dimensions of the parameters involved in this invention. Around this basic concept, it is possible to develop a wide variety of applications for the inventive state of charge (SOC) optimization of reconfigurable battery network, and the invention cannot be limited to the examples described herein, but is essentially as set forth in the claims.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. A Reconfigurable Energy Enhanced Architecture (REEA) for battery cells comprising: - a plurality of battery cells (B), - a first switch set (SW) having at least one switch, each switch is configured to connect negative terminal of each battery cell to the positive terminal of the next adjacent battery cell (B), - a second switch set (SP) having at least one switch, each switch corresponding to each of the battery cells, one terminal of each of the said switches being connected to the positive terminal of a battery cell, the other terminal of this switch being connected to a positive terminal of a load, directly or via a load switch (Sbat), - a third switch set (SR) having at least one switch for connecting the terminals of the switches of the second switch set that are not connected to the positive terminal of the load, directly or via a load switch (Sbat), - a fourth switch set (SN) having at least one switch, each switch corresponding to each of the battery cells, one terminal of each of the said switches being connected to the negative terminal of a battery cell, the other terminal of the last switch being connected directly to another terminal of the load, - a fifth switch set (SL) having at least one switch for connecting the terminals of the switches of the fourth switch set that are not connected to the negative terminal of the load, - said switches being controllable via a control signal.

2. A Reconfigurable Energy Enhanced Architecture (REEA) for battery cells according to claim 1 comprising sensors for providing output data representing the state of charge and the voltage of each battery cell (B), said output data transmitted to the battery management system and the optimization algorithm.

3. Switching Control Algorithm of REEA comprising: - Determining how to connect or separate a battery cell from the REEA, further determining how to connect the said battery cell in series, in parallel, or as a battery cell connecting different types of connections in a unified configuration.- The capability to connect the adjacent and / or non-adjacent battery cells in series and / or parallel configurations. - Adaptability to receive the configuration data from the battery management system, said configuration data specifying battery cells to be connected in series and in parallel, and the configuration type to be established by the REEA. - Generating the states of all the sets of switches in the REEA, determining whether they are open or closed, to connect the configuration to meet load requirements.

4. A Battery Management System for REEA des6gned to regulate, superv6se, and control mult6ple battery cells 6n REEA, sa6d battery management system compr6ses: - Battery balanc6ng system w6th battery balanc6ng algor6thm wh6ch compares the SOC of each battery cell (B) to the m6n6mum charge value (SOCm6n) and max6mum charge value (SOCmax) and descr6bes how to determ6ne the next state mode of the battery cell whether 6t 6s charge “CHARGE”, d6scharge “LOAD”, or 6dle “IDLE”, - Battery charg6ng system wh6ch cons6sts a charg6ng voltage source “Vs1” and a sw6tch6ng control set (Cp) that connects each battery cell to charg6ng voltage source 6n parallel for connect6ng each battery cell d6rectly to the source whenever needed, w6thout depend6ng on the connect6ons of other battery cells, - Battery d6scharg6ng system wh6ch conf6gured w6th the help of a sw6tch6ng control algor6thm to generate the requ6red voltage through a battery network. - An external voltage source for supply6ng the load 6n the absence of ready battery cells, sa6d process6ng pers6st6ng unt6l at least one battery cell 6s prepared to supply the load.

5. The battery discharging system within the battery management system as in claim 4, said battery discharging system comprises a low-charge battery cell replacement process. Said process designed to provide a replacement for the disconnected battery cell in the configuration with an available battery cell ready for the discharging process, where this process is adaptable to: - Series configurations, allowing the replacement process to occur by using adjacent or non-adjacent battery cells.- Parallel configurations, allowing the replacement process to occur by using adjacent or non-adjacent battery cells. - Hybrid configurations (Mixed of series and parallel); allowing the replacement algorithm to replace the separate battery cell that connects different types of connections together with an available battery cell. The said battery discharging system provides the output data of the final form of the configuration to be connected by REEA.

6. An Optimization Algorithm for determ6n6ng the best battery conf6gurat6on, compr6s6ng: a. Receiving the load requirements, voltage error ratio, and runtime from the user. b. Obtaining battery cell parameters (state of charge and voltage) from REEA. c. Determining all possible battery configurations (series and / or parallel) based on the number of battery cells in REEA. d. Choosing the suitable configurations from the possible battery configurations meeting load requirements based on the given voltage error ratio. e. Gradually increasing the voltage error ratio in case there are no configurations within the given voltage error ratio until a suitable configuration is found. f. Ignoring configurations with a battery cell charge value equal to or less than a predetermined minimum. g. Determining the best configuration from the optimized configurations based on required output voltage, battery cell voltage, voltage error ratio, state of charge, and minimum charge value. h. Prov6d6ng output data reflect6ng the best conf6gurat6on selected by the opt6m6zat6on algor6thm to the battery management system for further process6ng.

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