Electronic apparatus and operation method thereof

Abstract

According to an embodiment disclosed herein, an electronic apparatus comprises: a communication circuit; a memory for storing one or more instructions; and a processor. When executed, the one or more instructions cause the processor to check a state of a first battery included in a vehicle, to check a state of a second battery connected in parallel with the first battery, and to control a plurality of relays for establishing an electrical connection between the first battery, the second battery, and the vehicle on the basis of information about the state of the first battery and information about the state of the second battery.

Description

Electronic device and its method of operation

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2024-0163395 filed on November 15, 2024, and all contents disclosed in the document of said Korean Patent Application are incorporated herein as part of this specification.

[0002] The embodiments disclosed in this document relate to an electronic device and a method of operating the same.

[0003] Recently, active research and development on secondary batteries has been underway. Here, secondary batteries refer to rechargeable batteries, encompassing conventional Ni / Cd and Ni / MH batteries as well as the more recent lithium-ion batteries. Among secondary batteries, lithium-ion batteries have the advantage of significantly higher energy density compared to conventional Ni / Cd and Ni / MH batteries. Furthermore, lithium-ion batteries can be manufactured in a compact and lightweight manner, making them suitable for use as power sources for mobile devices. Recently, their scope of application has expanded to include electric vehicles, drawing attention as a next-generation energy storage medium.

[0004] When batteries are used as a power source for electric vehicles, multiple batteries are connected in parallel to account for factors such as the driving range of the electric vehicle, and methods are being devised to operate them efficiently when batteries are connected in parallel.

[0005] One objective of the embodiments disclosed in this document is to provide an electronic device capable of efficiently using a first battery and a second battery included in a vehicle, and a method of operating the same.

[0006] The technical problems of the embodiments disclosed in this document are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned technical problems will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0007] According to an embodiment disclosed in this document, an electronic device comprises: a communication circuit; a memory for storing one or more instructions; and a processor, wherein, when the one or more instructions are executed, the processor can check the state of a first battery included in a vehicle, check the state of a second battery connected in parallel with the first battery, and control a plurality of relays to establish an electrical connection between the first battery, the second battery, and the vehicle based on the state information of the first battery and the state information of the second battery.

[0008] According to an embodiment, the capacity of the first battery is greater than the capacity of the second battery, and the heating characteristics of the second battery may be superior to the heating characteristics of the first battery.

[0009] According to an embodiment, the processor can control the plurality of relays such that when the temperature of the first battery is below a first threshold temperature, the electrical connection between the first battery and the vehicle is disconnected and the electrical connection between the second battery and the vehicle is established, and when the temperature of the first battery is above the first threshold temperature, the processor can control the plurality of relays such that the electrical connection between the first battery and the second battery and the vehicle is established.

[0010] According to an embodiment, the processor can set the output of the first battery and the output of the second battery based on the state information of the first battery and the state information of the second battery.

[0011] According to an embodiment, the processor can set the output of the first battery and the output of the second battery based on each of the relationship information of the first battery and the relationship information of the second battery.

[0012] According to an embodiment, the relationship information may represent the relationship between temperature information, charge rate information, lifespan information, and power efficiency information.

[0013] According to an embodiment, the state information of the first battery may include the temperature of the first battery and the charge rate of the first battery, and the state information of the second battery may include the temperature of the second battery and the charge rate of the second battery.

[0014] According to an embodiment, the processor can control the first battery and the second battery such that, when the temperature of the first battery is below a first threshold temperature, it determines a target temperature and a target power for raising the temperature to the target temperature based on the state of the first battery, and, based on the charge rate of the first battery and the charge rate of the second battery, power is provided to at least a part of a first heating device associated with the first battery and a second heating device associated with the second battery.

[0015] According to an embodiment, the first heating device may be positioned to provide heat toward the outer surface of the first battery, and the second heating device may be positioned to provide heat toward the outer surface of the second battery.

[0016] According to an embodiment, the processor can control the plurality of relays to supply current from the vehicle to the second battery when the charge rate of the first battery and the charge rate of the second battery are less than a reference value, and control power to be supplied from the second battery to the first heating device and the second heating device.

[0017] According to an embodiment, the processor can control the plurality of relays to supply current from the first battery and the vehicle to the second battery when the charge rate of the first battery is greater than or equal to the reference value and the charge rate of the second battery is less than the reference value, and can control power to be supplied from the first battery to the first heating device and the second heating device.

[0018] According to an embodiment, the processor can control power to be supplied from the first battery to the first heating device and power to be supplied from the second battery to the second heating device when the charge rate of the first battery and the charge rate of the second battery are greater than or equal to the reference value.

[0019] According to an embodiment disclosed in this document, a method of operating an electronic device may include: a step of checking the state of a first battery included in a vehicle; a step of checking the state of a second battery connected in parallel with the first battery; and a step of controlling a plurality of relays to establish an electrical connection between the first battery, the second battery, and the vehicle based on the state of the first battery and the state of the second battery.

[0020] The electronic device and the method of operation thereof according to the embodiments disclosed in this document can efficiently use the first battery and the second battery included in the vehicle by taking into account the state of the batteries.

[0021] In addition, various effects that can be identified directly or indirectly through this document may be provided.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an electronic device according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0023] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing an example of a battery system provided in a vehicle according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0024] FIGS. 3a and FIGS. 3b are drawings showing an example of controlling a plurality of relays of a first circuit.

[0025] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing an example of relationship information of a battery according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0026] FIGS. 5A and FIGS. 5B are drawings showing an example of controlling a plurality of relays of a second circuit.

[0027] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operation of an electronic device according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0028] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method for setting the output of a battery according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0029] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method of providing power to a heating device according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0030] Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this is not intended to limit the present invention to specific embodiments and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, and / or alternatives of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0031] In this document, the singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases such as “A or B,” “at least one of A and B,” “at least one of A or B,” “A, B or C,” “at least one of A, B and C,” and “at least one of A, B, or C” may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as “first,” “second,” or “first” or “second” may be used simply to distinguish a component from another corresponding component and do not limit the components in any other aspect (e.g., importance or order). Where any (e.g., 1st) component is referred to as “coupled” or “connected” to another (e.g., 2nd) component, with or without the terms “functionally” or “communicationly,” it means that said any component may be connected to said other component directly (e.g., via a wire), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0032] Each component (e.g., module or program) of the components described in this document may include a singular or multiple entities. According to various embodiments, one or more of the components or operations may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Generally or additionally, multiple components (e.g., module or program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the multiple components in the same or similar manner as they were performed by the corresponding component among the multiple components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0033] As used in this document, the terms "module" or "...part" may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit, for example. A module may be a component formed integrally, or a minimum unit of said component or a part thereof that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0034] Various embodiments of this document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program or application) comprising one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., memory) readable by a machine. For example, the processor of the machine may call at least one of the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code that can be executed by an interpreter. The storage medium readable by a machine may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, "non-transitory" simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily in the storage medium.

[0035]

[0036] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an electronic device (100) according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0037] Referring to FIG. 1, the electronic device (100) may include a communication circuit (110), a memory (120), and a processor (130). At least one of the components included in the electronic device (100) may be omitted, or another component may be added to the electronic device (100). Additionally, some components may be implemented as an integrated unit or as a single or multiple unit. At least some components within the electronic device (100) may be implemented as an integrated unit or as a single or multiple unit. At least some components within the electronic device (100) may be connected to each other via a bus, GPIO (general purpose input / output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface), etc., to exchange data and / or signals.

[0038] The communication circuit (110) can establish a wired or wireless communication channel with an external device (e.g., a vehicle) and transmit and receive various data with the external device. The communication circuit (110) may include at least one port for connecting to the external device via a wired cable in order to communicate with the external device via a wired connection. The communication circuit (110) may include a cellular communication module and be configured to be connected to a cellular network (e.g., 3G, LTE, 5G, Wibro, or Wimax). According to one embodiment, the communication circuit (110) may include a short-range communication module and transmit and receive data with the external device using short-range communication (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), UWB), but is not limited thereto.

[0039] Memory (120) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (130)). Memory (120) can store instructions for the operation of the processor (130) described above. Programs may be stored in memory (120) as software and may include, for example, an operating system, middleware, or applications. Unless otherwise specified, memory (120) in this disclosure may mean a set of one or more memories (120).

[0040] The processor (130) is configured to perform operations or data processing regarding the control and / or communication of each component of the electronic device (100) and can be operatively connected to the components of the electronic device (100). The processor (130) can load commands or data received from other components of the electronic device (100) into memory (120), process commands or data stored in memory (120), and store result data.

[0041] Unless there are special circumstances, the processor (130) in the present disclosure may refer to a set of one or more processors (130). For example, the processor (130) may be composed of a set of multiple processors, such as a first processor that senses the state of a first battery and controls the first battery, a second processor that senses the state of a second battery and controls the second battery, a third processor that controls a plurality of relays, and a higher processor of the first to third processors. This is merely an example, and the configuration of the processor is not limited thereto.

[0042] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing an example of a battery system provided in a vehicle according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0043] Referring to FIG. 2, the battery system (20) of a vehicle may include a first battery (210) and a second battery (220). The first battery (210) may be a main battery for providing power to the vehicle, and the second battery (220) may be an auxiliary battery for providing power to the vehicle by assisting or replacing the first battery (210). The first battery (210) and the second battery (220) may include various types of batteries such as LFP batteries (lithium iron phosphate batteries) and NCM batteries (mid-nickel batteries), and the types of batteries are not limited thereto.

[0044] The first battery (210) and the second battery (220) can each provide power to the vehicle independently or complementarily, and the battery system (20) can control the power supply to the vehicle according to the state of the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) to use the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) efficiently and increase the lifespan of the first battery (210).

[0045] According to one embodiment, the battery system (10) may include a first heating device (211) for heating a first battery (210) and a second heating device (220) for heating a second battery (220). Here, the first heating device (211) and the second heating device (213) are described as heating devices for convenience of explanation, but the first heating device (211) and the second heating device (213) may, depending on the case, perform cooling as well as heating.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the first heating device (211) may be positioned to provide heat toward the outer surface of the first battery (210), and the second heating device (221) may be positioned to provide heat toward the outer surface of the second battery (220). The positioning of the first heating device (211) and the second heating device (221) is not limited thereto.

[0047] The first heating device (211) can provide heat to the first battery (210) to raise the temperature of the first battery (210) when the temperature of the first battery (210) is low. Likewise, the second heating device (221) can provide heat to the second battery (220) to raise the temperature of the second battery (220) when the temperature of the second battery (220) is low.

[0048] In some cases, if the temperature of the first battery (210) is high, the temperature of the first battery (210) can be lowered using a first cooling device, and if the temperature of the second battery (220) is high, the temperature of the second battery (220) can be lowered using a second cooling device. The first cooling device may be implemented by being integrated with the first heating device (211) or implemented as a separate configuration. Likewise, the second cooling device may be implemented by being integrated with the second heating device (213) or implemented as a separate configuration.

[0049] There is a problem that when the battery temperature is low, the power efficiency of the battery decreases, and when operating at a low temperature, the lifespan of the battery is reduced. Accordingly, the battery system (20) may include a first heating device (211) for heating a first battery (210) and a second heating device (221) for heating a second battery (220), and when the battery temperature is low, the first heating device (211) and the second heating device (221) can be used to heat the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) to raise the temperature to a temperature that has optimal power efficiency.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the battery system (20) may include a first battery management system (213) associated with a first battery (210) and a second battery management system (223) associated with a second battery (220). Although FIG. 2 shows the first battery management system (213) and the second battery management system (223) being provided inside the first battery (210) and the second battery (220), respectively, the first battery management system (213) and the second battery management system (223) may be provided outside the first battery (210) and the second battery (220), and their locations are not limited thereto.

[0051] For example, the first battery management system (213) can check the temperature of the first battery (210) and set the output of the first battery (210). For example, the first battery management system (213) can check the temperature information of the first battery (210) from a temperature sensor associated with the first battery (210). Likewise, the second battery management system (223) can check the temperature of the second battery (220) and set the output of the second battery (220).

[0052] According to one embodiment, the battery system (20) may include a plurality of relays (230) for establishing an electrical connection between the first battery (210), the second battery (220), and the vehicle. Here, the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) being electrically connected to the vehicle may include being electrically connected to a component of the vehicle. For example, the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) may be electrically connected to the motor (10) of the vehicle and may provide power to the motor (10).

[0053] That is, a connection circuit between the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) and the vehicle may be configured, and the connection circuit may include a plurality of relays (230). The electrical connection between the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) and the vehicle may be controlled according to the state of the plurality of relays (230).

[0054] According to one embodiment, the connection circuit between the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) and the vehicle may include a first circuit for providing power to the vehicle and a second circuit for regenerative braking. The first circuit and the second circuit may be distinguished from each other. Additionally, the first circuit and the second circuit may each include a plurality of relays, and the statement that the processor (130) controls the plurality of relays may mean that it includes both controlling the relays of the first circuit and controlling the relays of the second circuit. Although the configuration and connection relationship of the first circuit and the second circuit may differ, for the convenience of explanation, they will be described below as having the same configuration and connection relationship.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the battery system (20) may further include a DC-DC converter (240) connected in series with the second battery (220). The DC-DC converter (240) can increase or decrease the voltage level of the second battery (220).

[0056] According to one embodiment, the voltage level of the DC-DC converter (240) may be determined based on the voltage level of the first battery (210) and the voltage level of the second battery (220). For example, when the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) simultaneously provide power to the motor (10), the DC-DC converter (240) may boost the voltage level of the second battery (220) to have the same voltage level as the voltage level of the first battery (210).

[0057] As another example, the voltage level transformed by the DC-DC converter (240) can be set to be lower than the voltage level of the first battery (210) so that current can flow from the first battery (210) to the second battery (220). For example, when the charge rate of the second battery (220) is low and the charge rate of the first battery (210) is sufficient, the voltage level of the DC-DC converter (240) is set so that current can flow from the first battery (210) to the second battery (220), thereby enabling charging of the second battery (220) using the first battery (210).

[0058] According to one embodiment, a plurality of relays (230) may include a first relay (231), a second relay (233), a third relay (235), and a fourth relay (237).

[0059] According to one embodiment, one end of the first relay (231) may be connected to one end of the first battery (210) and the other end may be connected to one end of the second relay (233). Additionally, one end of the second relay (233) may be connected to the other end of the first relay (231) and the other end may be connected to the vehicle. Additionally, one end of the third relay (235) may be connected to one end of the DC-DC converter (240) and the other end may be connected to the other end of the first relay (231) and one end of the second relay (233). Additionally, one end of the fourth relay (237) may be connected to the other end of the second battery (220) and the other end of the DC-DC converter (240), and the other end may be connected to the vehicle. The arrangement of the plurality of relays (230) described above is merely an example and is not limited thereto.

[0060] Hereinafter, a method by which an electronic device (100) controls a battery system (10) will be explained in more detail with reference to FIGS. 1 and FIGS. 2.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the processor (130) can check the status of the first battery (210) included in the vehicle. The first battery (210) may refer to a main battery and may provide main power to the motor (10).

[0062] According to one embodiment, the processor (130) can check the status of a second battery (220) connected in parallel with a first battery (210). The second battery (220) may refer to an auxiliary battery and may be connected in parallel with the first battery (210). Depending on the conditions, the second battery (220) may provide power to the vehicle by replacing the first battery (210) or simultaneously with the first battery (210).

[0063] The processor (130) checking the state of the first battery (210) and checking the state of the second battery (220) may each include obtaining state information of the first battery (210) and obtaining state information of the second battery (220).

[0064] According to one embodiment, the state information of the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) may include the temperature of the battery and the state of charge (SOC) of the battery. For example, the state information of the first battery (210) may include the temperature of the first battery and the state of charge of the first battery, and the state information of the second battery (220) may include the temperature of the second battery and the state of charge of the second battery. In addition, the state information of the battery may further include various information such as the battery life (SOC, RUL) and the type of battery.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the capacity of the first battery (210) is greater than the capacity of the second battery (220), and the heating characteristics of the second battery (220) may be superior to the heating characteristics of the first battery (210).

[0066] The capacity of the first battery (210) and the capacity of the second battery (220) may include a rated capacity and may include the maximum charge capacity of the first battery (210) and the second battery (220). For example, the capacity of the first battery (210) may be 50 kW and the capacity of the second battery (220) may be 10 kW.

[0067] Additionally, the heating characteristics of the second battery (220) may be superior to the heating characteristics of the first battery (210). Here, superior heating characteristics may include good temperature rise performance of the battery. For example, when providing the same amount of heat, the temperature rise rate of the second battery (220) may be greater than the temperature rise rate of the first battery (210).

[0068] According to one embodiment, the processor (130) can control a plurality of relays (230) based on the state information of the first battery (210) and the state information of the second battery (220). Since the power efficiency of the battery can vary significantly depending on the state of the battery, the processor (130) can control a plurality of relays (230) according to the state information of the battery to establish an electrical connection between the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) and the vehicle. Accordingly, the power supply of the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) can be adjusted to efficiently use the first battery (210) and the second battery (220).

[0069] According to one embodiment, the processor (130) may control a plurality of relays (230) so that when the temperature of the first battery (210) is below a first threshold temperature, the electrical connection between the first battery (210) and the vehicle is disconnected and the connection between the second battery (220) and the vehicle is established. Conversely, the processor (130) may control a plurality of relays (230) so that when the temperature of the first battery (210) is above the first threshold temperature, the electrical connection between the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) and the vehicle is established. Here, the establishment of an electrical connection between the battery and the vehicle may include, as an example, an electrical connection between the battery and a motor for driving the vehicle.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the first critical temperature may be set based on the power efficiency of the first battery (210). For example, by considering the relationship between the temperature and power efficiency of the first battery (210), the temperature having an efficiency according to a preset ratio relative to the optimal power efficiency may be set as the first critical temperature. For example, if the optimal power efficiency of the first battery (210) is A across all temperature ranges, the temperature having an efficiency of x% of A may be set as the first critical temperature.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the processor (130) can control the first relay to open and the second relay, third relay, and fourth relay to close when the temperature of the first battery (210) is below a first threshold temperature. By doing so, the processor (130) can disconnect the electrical connection between the first battery (210) and the vehicle and establish an electrical connection between the second battery (220) and the vehicle.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the processor (130) can control the first to fourth relays to close when the temperature of the first battery (210) is above a first threshold temperature. By doing so, the processor (130) can establish an electrical connection between the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) and the vehicle.

[0073] In this way, the processor (130) can provide power to the vehicle using the second battery (220) in an environment where the temperature of the first battery (210) is low. Since the second battery (220) can be replaced at a shorter cycle compared to the first battery (210), there is less need for life management compared to the first battery (210). Therefore, the processor (130) can efficiently manage the first battery (210) by utilizing the second battery (220) to provide power to the vehicle in an environment where the temperature of the first battery (210) is low, in order to manage the efficiency and lifespan of the first battery (210).

[0074] In some cases, the processor (130) may control the first relay, the second relay, and the fourth relay to open and the third relay to close when the temperature of the first battery (210) is above the first threshold temperature. In this case, the processor (130) may control the first battery (210) to establish an electrical connection between the vehicles and the second battery (220) to disconnect the electrical connection between the vehicles.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the processor (130) can control the first heating device (211) to operate when the temperature of the first battery (210) is below the first threshold temperature, and control the second heating device (221) to operate when the temperature of the second battery (220) is below the first threshold temperature.

[0076] Battery efficiency can vary depending on temperature, as the current flowing through the battery during the charging and discharging process is consumed as thermal energy due to internal resistance. More specifically, battery heat generation tends to increase as the charge level decreases, the battery temperature drops, and the C-rate increases. Such heat generation leads to reduced battery efficiency, resulting in a decrease in vehicle driving range. Additionally, operating the battery in low or high temperature environments, rather than at its optimal temperature, leads to a reduction in its lifespan.

[0077] Accordingly, the processor (130) can heat the battery when the battery is in a low-temperature environment and cool the battery when the battery is in a high-temperature environment, thereby controlling the battery to an appropriate temperature at which it can achieve optimal efficiency. The first critical temperature can be pre-set, for example, to 20 degrees.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the processor (130) can control the output of the first battery (210) and the output of the second battery (220) based on the state information of the first battery (210) and the state information of the second battery (220). As described above, since the efficiency of the battery can vary depending on the state of the battery, such as temperature, the processor (130) can effectively operate the battery system (20) by setting the output of the battery according to the state of each battery.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the processor (130) can set the output of the first battery (210) and the output of the second battery (220) based on the relationship information of the first battery (210) and the relationship information of the second battery (220), respectively. For example, the processor (130) can check the power efficiency of the first battery (210) based on the state information of the first battery (210). At this time, the processor (130) can check the power efficiency of the first battery (210) through the state information and relationship information of the first battery (210). Likewise, the processor (130) can check the power efficiency of the second battery (220) based on the state information of the second battery (220).

[0080] The relationship information of the first battery (210) and the relationship information of the second battery (220) can be set for the first battery (210) and the second battery (220), respectively. For example, the relationship information of the batteries can be set according to the usage statistics of the batteries. As an example, the relationship information of the batteries can represent the relationship between the battery status information and power efficiency.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the relationship information may represent the relationship between temperature information, charge rate information, and lifespan information and the power efficiency information of the battery. The processor (130) can use the relationship information to determine the power efficiency of the battery corresponding to the temperature information, charge rate information, and lifespan information included in the state information of the battery. Additionally, since the efficiency of the battery may vary depending on the type of battery, the relationship information may be set according to the type of battery.

[0082] According to one embodiment, when the temperature of the first battery (210) is below a first threshold temperature, the processor (130) can determine a target temperature and a target power for raising the temperature to the target temperature based on the state of the first battery (210). For example, the processor (130) can determine the temperature that has optimal power efficiency in the current state of the first battery (210) as the target temperature based on relationship information of the first battery (210). Additionally, the processor (130) can determine the target power for raising the temperature by considering the difference between the current temperature and the target temperature of the first battery (210).

[0083] According to one embodiment, the processor (130) can control the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) so that power is supplied to at least part of the first heating device (211) and the second heating device (221) based on the charge rate of the first battery (210) and the charge rate of the second battery (220).

[0084] According to one embodiment, the processor (130) can control a plurality of relays based on the charge rate of the first battery (210) and the charge rate of the second battery (220). For example, the processor (130) can control the electrical connection between the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) and the vehicle, along with controlling power to be supplied to at least some of the first heating device (211) and the second heating device (221).

[0085] Through this, the processor (130) can efficiently use the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) until the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) are heated to a target temperature.

[0086] Hereinafter, an exemplary embodiment of controlling the first battery (210), the second battery (220), and a plurality of relays according to the charge rate of the first battery (210) and the charge rate of the second battery (220) will be described.

[0087] Example 1

[0088] According to one embodiment, the processor (130) can control a plurality of relays so that current is supplied from the vehicle to the second battery (220) when the charge rate of the first battery (210) and the charge rate of the second battery (220) are less than a reference value. Here, the plurality of relays may refer to relays included in the second circuit for regenerative braking.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the processor (130) can control power to be supplied to the vehicle from the first battery (210) and the second battery (220). That is, when the charge rate of the first battery (210) and the charge rate of the second battery (220) are less than a reference value, the processor (130) can control a plurality of relays of the first circuit to supply power to the vehicle from the first battery (210) and the second battery (220), and control a plurality of relays of the second circuit to supply current from the vehicle to the second battery (220).

[0090] When the charge rate of both the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) is low, the processor (130) can use all of the batteries to provide power to the vehicle and control the flow of current from the vehicle to the second battery (220) to charge the second battery (220) through regenerative braking. Since the capacity of the first battery (210) is greater than the capacity of the second battery (220) and the heating characteristics of the second battery (220) are superior to the heating characteristics of the first battery (210), the processor (130) can charge the second battery (220) through regenerative braking to primarily utilize the second battery (220) until the first battery (210) is sufficiently heated.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the processor (130) can control power to be supplied from the second battery (220) to the first heating device (211) and the second heating device (221). When both the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) have low charge levels, the processor (130) can control the charging of the second battery (220) through regenerative braking and the supply of power from the second battery (220) to the first heating device (211) and the second heating device (221).

[0092]

[0093] Example 2

[0094] According to one embodiment, the processor (130) can control a plurality of relays to supply current from the first battery (210) and the vehicle to the second battery (220) when the charge rate of the first battery (210) is greater than or equal to a reference value and the charge rate of the second battery (220) is less than a reference value. Here, the plurality of relays may refer to relays included in the second circuit for regenerative braking.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the processor (130) can control a plurality of relays of the first circuit so that power is supplied from the first battery (210) to the vehicle. That is, when the charge rate of the first battery (210) is greater than or equal to a reference value and the charge rate of the second battery (220) is less than a reference value, the processor (130) can control a plurality of relays of the first circuit to supply power from the first battery (210) to the vehicle, and control a plurality of relays of the second circuit to supply current from the first battery (210) and the vehicle to the second battery (220). In this case, the processor (130) can set the voltage level of the second battery (220), which is transformed by the DC-DC converter (240), to be lower than the voltage level of the first battery (210) so that current flows from the first battery (210) to the second battery (220).

[0096] Since the charge rate of the second battery (220) is low, the processor (130) can provide power to the vehicle using the first battery (210) and control the flow of current from the vehicle and the first battery (210) to the second battery (220) to charge the second battery (220). Additionally, the processor (130) can control the supply of power from the first battery (210) to the first heating device (211) and the second heating device (221).

[0097]

[0098] Example 3

[0099] According to one embodiment, the processor (130) can control power to be supplied from the first battery (210) to the first heating device (221) and from the second battery (220) to the second heating device (221) when the charge rates of the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) are above a reference value. The processor (130) can control power to be supplied to drive the corresponding heating device, as the charge rates of the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) are sufficient.

[0100] According to one embodiment, the processor (130) can control a plurality of relays of the first circuit so that power is supplied to the vehicle from the first battery (210) and the second battery (220).

[0101] FIGS. 3a and FIGS. 3b are drawings showing an example of controlling a plurality of relays of a first circuit. The processor (130) can control the supply of power between the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) of the vehicle by controlling a plurality of relays included in the first circuit.

[0102] First, referring to FIG. 3a, an example of a connection relationship is shown when the temperature of the first battery (210) is below the first critical temperature. When the temperature of the first battery (210) is below the first critical temperature, a heating process may be carried out for the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) due to the operation of a heating device. At this time, the processor (130) may control a plurality of relays (231, 233, 235, 237) so that power is supplied from the second battery (220) to the motor (10).

[0103] For example, the processor (130) can control the second relay (233), the third relay (235), and the fourth relay (237) to a closed state and control the first relay (231) to an open state. Accordingly, power from the second battery (220) can be transferred to the motor (10) via the DC-DC converter (240), the fourth relay (237), and the second relay (233).

[0104] Next, FIG. 3b illustrates an example of a connection relationship when the temperature of the first battery (210) is above a first critical temperature. In one embodiment, the processor (130) can control a plurality of relays (231, 233, 235, 237) to establish an electrical connection between the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) and the vehicle.

[0105] For example, the processor (130) can control the first relay (231), the second relay (233), the third relay (235), and the fourth relay (237) to a closed state. Accordingly, power from the first battery (210) can be transferred to the motor (10) via the first relay (231) and the second relay (233), and power from the second battery (220) can be transferred to the motor (10) via the DC-DC converter (240), the fourth relay (237), and the second relay (233).

[0106] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing an example of relationship information of a battery according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0107] In Figure 4, the x-axis represents state of life (SOH), the y-axis represents state of charge (SOC), and the z-axis represents output information, and output information according to the battery temperature is illustrated. A higher output at the same state of life, charge rate, and temperature may mean that the power efficiency is good.

[0108] Referring to Fig. 4, it can be seen that the optimal output varies depending on the temperature of the battery under the same lifespan and charge rate conditions. For example, in Fig. 4, it can be seen that as the temperature increases, the output increases even under the same charge rate and lifespan conditions, thereby increasing power efficiency.

[0109] Accordingly, the processor (130) can set an output based on the status information of the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) using relationship information set for the battery, and can provide power to the motor (10) according to the set output.

[0110] FIGS. 5a and FIGS. 5b are drawings showing an example of controlling a plurality of relays of a second circuit. The processor (130) controls a plurality of relays included in the second circuit to charge at least one of the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) through regenerative braking and to drive the heating device.

[0111] First, FIG. 5a shows an example of the connection relationship of the second circuit in the case corresponding to Example 1. Referring to FIG. 5a, the processor (130) can control a plurality of relays (251, 253, 255, 257) so that current is supplied from the motor (10) to the second battery (220) when the charge rate of the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) is less than a reference value.

[0112] For example, the processor (130) can control the second relay (253), the third relay (255), and the fourth relay (257) to be closed and the first relay (251) to be open, thereby controlling current to flow from the motor (10) to the second battery (220). Through this, the second battery (220) can be charged using the current provided from the motor (10).

[0113] FIG. 5b shows an example of the connection relationship of the second circuit in the case corresponding to Example 2. Referring to FIG. 5b, the processor (130) can control a plurality of relays (251, 253, 255, 257) so that current is supplied from the first battery (210) and the motor (10) to the second battery (220) when the charge rate of the first battery (210) is greater than or equal to a reference value and the charge rate of the second battery (220) is less than a reference value.

[0114] For example, the processor (130) can control the first relay (251), the second relay (253), the third relay (255), and the fourth relay (257) to a closed state. Through this, current can flow from the motor (10) to the second battery (220). Additionally, the processor (130) can control the voltage level of the DC-DC converter (240) so that the voltage level of the first battery (210) is greater than the voltage of the second battery (220) boosted by the DC-DC converter (240), thereby allowing current to flow from the first battery (210) to the second battery (220). Furthermore, the second battery (220) can be charged using the current provided from the first battery (210) and the motor (10).

[0115] FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the operation method of an electronic device according to an embodiment disclosed in this document. Since the operation method of FIG. 6 can be performed by the electronic device (100) of FIG. 1, descriptions that overlap with the above-mentioned content may be omitted and may be explained using the configurations of FIG. 1.

[0116] The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6 is merely one example, and the sequence of operations according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may differ from that illustrated in FIG. 6, and some operations illustrated in FIG. 6 may be omitted, the order of operations may be changed, or operations may be merged.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 6, in step S610, the processor (130) can check the status of the first battery (210). For example, the processor (130) can obtain status information of the first battery (210) from the first battery management device (213).

[0118] In step S620, the processor (130) can check the status of the second battery (220). For example, the processor (130) can obtain status information of the second battery (220) from the second battery management device (223).

[0119] In step S630, the processor (130) can control a plurality of relays (230, 250) based on the status information of the first battery (210) and the status information of the second battery (220). The processor (130) can efficiently use the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) by controlling the plurality of relays (230, 250) in consideration of the temperature and charge rate of the first battery (210).

[0120] In step S640, the processor (130) can set the output of the first battery (210) and the output of the second battery (220) based on the state information of the first battery (210) and the state of the second battery (220).

[0121] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method for setting the output of a battery according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 7, in step S710, the processor (130) can compare the temperature of the first battery (210) with the first threshold temperature. If the temperature of the first battery (210) is less than the first threshold temperature (S710 - Yes), the processor (130) can proceed to step S710. If the temperature of the first battery (210) is greater than or equal to the first threshold temperature (S710 - No), the processor (130) can proceed to step S750.

[0123] In step S720, the processor (130) can control a plurality of relays (230) so that the electrical connection between the first battery (210) and the vehicle is disconnected and the electrical connection between the second battery (220) and the vehicle is established.

[0124] In step S730, the processor (130) can check the relationship information of the second battery (220). Since the electrical connection between the first battery (210) and the vehicle has been disconnected, the processor (130) may not check the relationship information of the first battery (210).

[0125] In step S740, the processor (130) can set the output of the second battery (220). The processor (130) may not set the output of the first battery (210) because the electrical connection between the first battery (210) and the vehicle has been disconnected.

[0126] In step S750, the processor (130) can control a plurality of relays (230) to establish an electrical connection between the first battery (210) and the second battery (220) and the vehicle.

[0127] In step S760, the processor (130) can check the relationship information of the first battery (210) and the relationship information of the second battery (220).

[0128] In step S770, the processor (130) can set the output of the first battery (210) and the output of the second battery (220).

[0129] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a method of providing power to a heating device according to one embodiment disclosed in this document.

[0130] Referring to FIG. 8, in step S810, the processor (130) can determine the target temperature and the target power for raising the temperature to the target temperature based on the state of the first battery (210).

[0131] In step S820, the processor (130) can compare the charge rate of the first battery (210) with a reference value. If the charge rate of the first battery (210) is less than the reference value (S820 - Yes), the processor (130) can proceed to step S830. If the charge rate of the first battery (210) is greater than or equal to the reference value (S820 - No), the processor (130) can proceed to step S850.

[0132] In step S830, the processor (130) can compare the charge rate of the second battery (220) with a reference value. If the charge rate of the second battery (220) is less than the reference value, the processor (130) can proceed to step S840.

[0133] In step S840, the processor (130) can control current to be supplied from the vehicle to the second battery (220), and power to be supplied from the second battery (220) to the first heating device (211) and the second heating device (221).

[0134] In step S850, the processor (130) can compare the charge rate of the second battery (220) with a reference value. If the charge rate of the second battery (220) is less than the reference value (S850 - Yes), the processor (130) can proceed to step S860. If the charge rate of the first battery (210) is greater than or equal to the reference value (S850 - No), the processor (130) can proceed to step S870.

[0135] In step S860, the processor (130) can control current to be supplied from the first battery (210) and the vehicle to the second battery (220), and power to be supplied from the first battery (210) to the first heating device (211) and the second heating device (221).

[0136] In step S870, the processor (130) can control power to be supplied from the first battery (210) to the first heating device (211) and power to be supplied from the second battery (220) to the second heating device (221).

[0137]

[0138] Meanwhile, the present specification and drawings disclose preferred embodiments of the present disclosure. Although specific terms have been used, they are used merely in a general sense to facilitate the explanation of the technical content of the present disclosure and to aid in understanding the embodiments, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. It is obvious to those skilled in the art that, in addition to the embodiments disclosed herein, other variations based on the technical concept of the present disclosure are possible.

[0139] A device or terminal according to the embodiments described above may include a processor, memory for storing and executing program data, permanent storage such as a disk drive, a communication port for communicating with an external device, and user object devices such as a touch panel, a key, a button, etc. Methods implemented as software modules or algorithms may be stored on a computer-readable recording medium as computer-readable code or program instructions executable on the processor. Here, computer-readable recording media include magnetic storage media (e.g., ROM (read-only memory), RAM (random-access memory), floppy disks, hard disks, etc.) and optical reading media (e.g., CD-ROM, DVD (Digital Versatile Disc)). Computer-readable recording media may be distributed across networked computer systems, allowing computer-readable code to be stored and executed in a distributed manner. The medium may be readable by a computer, stored in memory, and executed by a processor.

[0140] The present embodiment may be represented by functional block configurations and various processing steps. These functional blocks may be implemented by various numbers of hardware and / or software configurations that execute specific functions. For example, the embodiment may employ integrated circuit configurations such as memory, processing, logic, look-up tables, etc., capable of executing various functions by the control of one or more microprocessors or other control devices. Similar to how components may be implemented as software programming or software elements, the present embodiment may be implemented in programming or scripting languages ​​such as C, C++, Java, assembler, Python, etc., including various algorithms implemented as combinations of data structures, processes, routines, or other programming configurations. Functional aspects may be implemented as algorithms executed on one or more processors. Additionally, the present embodiment may employ prior art for electronic configuration, signal processing, and / or data processing. Terms such as "mechanism," "element," "means," and "configuration" may be used broadly and are not limited to mechanical and physical configurations. The above terms may include the meaning of a series of software processes (routines) in conjunction with processors, etc.

Claims

1. In an electronic device, Communication circuit; Memory for storing one or more instructions; and Includes a processor, When executing the above one or more instructions, the processor, Check the condition of the first battery included in the vehicle, and Check the status of the second battery connected in parallel with the first battery, and Controlling a plurality of relays to establish an electrical connection between the first battery, the second battery, and the vehicle based on the state information of the first battery and the state information of the second battery. Electronic device.

2. In Paragraph 1, The capacity of the first battery is greater than the capacity of the second battery, and the heating characteristics of the second battery are superior to the heating characteristics of the first battery. Electronic device.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above processor is, When the temperature of the first battery is below a first critical temperature, the plurality of relays are controlled so that the electrical connection between the first battery and the vehicle is disconnected and the electrical connection between the second battery and the vehicle is established. When the temperature of the first battery is above the first critical temperature, controlling the plurality of relays to establish an electrical connection between the first battery, the second battery, and the vehicle. Electronic device.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above processor is, Based on the state information of the first battery and the state information of the second battery, the output of the first battery and the output of the second battery are set. Electronic device.

5. In Paragraph 4, The above processor is, Based on each of the relationship information of the first battery and the relationship information of the second battery, the output of the first battery and the output of the second battery are set. Electronic device.

6. In Paragraph 5, The above relationship information is, Indicating the relationship between temperature information, charge rate information, lifespan information, and power efficiency information, Electronic device.

7. In Paragraph 1, The state information of the first battery includes the temperature of the first battery and the charge rate of the first battery, and The state information of the second battery includes the temperature of the second battery and the charge rate of the second battery. Electronic device.

8. In Paragraph 7, The above processor is, If the temperature of the first battery is below the first critical temperature, a target temperature and a target power for raising the temperature to the target temperature are determined based on the state of the first battery, and Controlling the first battery and the second battery so that power is provided to at least a part of the first heating device associated with the first battery and the second heating device associated with the second battery, based on the charge rate of the first battery and the charge rate of the second battery. Electronic device.

9. In Paragraph 8, The first heating device is positioned to provide heat toward the outer surface of the first battery, and The second heating device is positioned to provide heat toward the outer surface of the second battery. Electronic device.

10. In Paragraph 8, The above processor is, If the charge rate of the first battery and the charge rate of the second battery are less than a reference value, Control the plurality of relays so that current is supplied from the vehicle to the second battery, and Controlling power to be supplied from the second battery to the first heating device and the second heating device, Electronic device.

11. In Paragraph 8, The above processor is, If the charge rate of the first battery is greater than or equal to the reference value and the charge rate of the second battery is less than the reference value, Control the plurality of relays so that current is supplied from the first battery and the vehicle to the second battery, and Controlling power to be supplied from the first battery to the first heating device and the second heating device, Electronic device.

12. In Paragraph 8, The above processor is, If the charge rate of the first battery and the charge rate of the second battery are greater than or equal to the reference value, Controlling power to be supplied from the first battery to the first heating device and to be supplied from the second battery to the second heating device, Electronic device.

13. In a method of operating an electronic device, A step of checking the condition of a first battery included in a vehicle; A step of checking the state of a second battery connected in parallel with the first battery; and A method comprising the step of controlling a plurality of relays to establish an electrical connection between the first battery, the second battery, and the vehicle based on the state of the first battery and the state of the second battery. Method of operation.

14. A computer-readable, non-transient recording medium having a program for executing the method of paragraph 13 on a computer.

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