Apparatus for monitoring impact and method for monitoring impact

Abstract

An impact monitoring apparatus according to the present invention comprises an impact detection circuit. The impact detection circuit comprises: a resistor unit including a plurality of resistors spaced apart from each other; and a moving unit configured to contact at least one resistor among the plurality of resistors when a position thereof is changed by an impact applied to a battery pack.

Description

Shock monitoring device and shock monitoring method

[0001] The present invention relates to shock monitoring technology for battery packs.

[0002] This application is a priority application for Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0039015 filed on March 26, 2025 and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2026-0012159 filed on January 21, 2026, and all contents disclosed in the specifications and drawings of said applications are incorporated into this application by reference.

[0003] The following description merely provides background information related to the present embodiment and does not constitute prior art.

[0004] Recently, as the demand for portable electronic products such as laptops, video cameras, and mobile phones has increased rapidly, and the development of electric vehicles, energy storage batteries, robots, and satellites has accelerated, research on high-performance batteries capable of repeated charging and discharging is actively underway.

[0005] Currently commercialized batteries include nickel-cadmium, nickel-hydrogen, nickel-zinc, and lithium batteries. Among these, lithium batteries are gaining attention for their advantages, such as the ability to freely charge and discharge with almost no memory effect compared to nickel-based batteries, a very low self-discharge rate, and high energy density.

[0006] In order to meet the high voltage and large capacity requirements of applications such as electric vehicles, battery systems (e.g., battery packs) comprising multiple battery cells connected in series are becoming widely used.

[0007] However, if physical impact is applied to such battery systems, deformation of the physical form of the battery or the cells constituting the battery, such as pouches, housings, and frames, may occur, which may lead to changes in the resistance or electrical characteristic values ​​of the battery or cells.

[0008] In particular, if a strong impact is applied to the battery pack, there is a risk of cell ignition or explosion; therefore, a protection system that immediately cuts off charging and discharging operations is required to prevent such situations. Generally, a method may be considered in which the protection unit of the Battery Management System (BMS) stops the operation of the battery pack according to a pre-designed software algorithm after detecting an external impact.

[0009] However, this method may make normal control difficult due to factors such as structural limitations of software algorithms, processing speed issues of the protection unit, and physical damage to the BMS itself.

[0010] Therefore, current battery pack systems lack the capability for the BMS to effectively detect and control physical impacts applied to the battery pack, and improvements in this regard are required.

[0011] The main purpose of the present invention is to detect an impact applied to a battery pack and to control the operation of the battery pack according to the degree of the impact.

[0012] Other objects and advantages of the present invention may be understood from the following description and will become more clearly apparent from the embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, it will be readily apparent that the objects and advantages of the present invention can be realized by the means and combinations thereof set forth in the claims.

[0013] An impact monitoring device for a battery pack according to one aspect of the present invention includes an impact detection circuit.

[0014] The shock detection circuit comprises: a resistor part including a plurality of resistors spaced apart from each other; and a movable part configured to come into contact with at least one of the plurality of resistors when its position changes due to a shock applied to the battery pack.

[0015] The shock monitoring device further includes a protection unit that measures the voltage between a first point where the plurality of resistors are mutually connected and a second point provided in the fluid section, and generates shock detection information regarding the battery pack based on the measured voltage.

[0016] The shock monitoring device may be configured such that when the at least one resistor contacts the fluid part, the voltage between the first point and the second point drops below a reference voltage, and while the at least one resistor remains in contact with the fluid part, the voltage between the first point and the second point is maintained below a reference voltage.

[0017] The above protection unit may be configured to control at least one protection operation for the battery pack based on the shock detection information.

[0018] The protection unit may be configured to generate shock detection information including a first value indicating that a shock has been applied to the battery pack if the voltage between the first point and the second point is less than a threshold voltage.

[0019] The protection unit may be configured to generate shock detection information such that it includes a second value representing the level of shock applied to the battery pack, based on voltage change history information between the first point and the second point.

[0020] The above protection unit may be configured to determine that the level of shock applied to the battery pack exceeds a threshold level if, based on the voltage change history information, the time during which the voltage between the first point and the second point is maintained below a threshold voltage exceeds a threshold time.

[0021] The above protection unit may be configured to determine that at least one of the resistance unit and the flow unit is damaged if, after the time during which the voltage between the first point and the second point is maintained below the threshold voltage exceeds the threshold time, the voltage changes to above the threshold voltage.

[0022] The above protection unit may be configured to determine that the level of shock applied to the battery pack is below a threshold level if, based on the above voltage change history information, the time during which the voltage between the first point and the second point is maintained below a threshold voltage is below a threshold time.

[0023] The above-mentioned fluid portion may be configured to come into contact with at least one resistor or be spaced apart from all of the plurality of resistors depending on the level of impact applied to the battery pack.

[0024] The above-mentioned fluid portion may include a plurality of conductive connecting members.

[0025] One end of each of the plurality of conductive connecting members is commonly connected to the second point, and the other end of each of the plurality of conductive connecting members may protrude radially from the second point toward the outer edge formed by the resistance member.

[0026] The other end of each of the above plurality of conductive connecting members may be in the shape of a hook.

[0027] A shock monitoring method according to another aspect of the present invention is for a battery pack comprising a battery module. The shock monitoring method can be implemented by a shock monitoring device comprising: a resistor portion comprising a plurality of resistors spaced apart from each other; a movable portion configured to contact at least one of the plurality of resistors when its position changes due to a shock applied to the battery pack; and a protection portion. The shock monitoring method comprises the steps of: the protection portion measuring a voltage between a first point where the plurality of resistors are mutually connected and a second point provided in the movable portion; and the protection portion generating shock detection information regarding the battery pack based on the measured voltage.

[0028] A computer-readable medium according to another aspect of the present invention can record a program for executing the battery management method on a computer.

[0029] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, by measuring a voltage change, if a strong shock exceeding a threshold level is detected in the battery pack, the operation of the battery pack can be controlled to prevent damage to the battery.

[0030] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by a person skilled in the art from the description below.

[0031] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an exemplary battery pack according to the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary shock detection circuit according to the present invention.

[0033] FIGS. 3a and 3b are cross-sectional views illustrating exemplary specific implementations of a shock detection circuit before a shock occurs to the battery pack.

[0034] FIGS. 4a and 4b are cross-sectional views illustrating, exemplarily, the contact state between the movable part and the resistive part of the shock detection circuit after an impact occurs to the battery pack.

[0035] FIGS. 5A and 5B are cross-sectional views illustrating, in an exemplary manner, the contact state between the fluid part and the resistive part of the shock detection circuit when a shock exceeding a second threshold level is applied to the battery pack.

[0036] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating a resistance equivalent circuit when the shock level is below the first threshold level.

[0037] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating a resistance equivalent circuit when the shock level exceeds the first threshold level.

[0038] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating a voltage waveform when the fluid part is restored to its original position after an impact occurs.

[0039] Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating a voltage waveform in the case where the fluid part is not restored to its original position after an impact occurs.

[0040] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a protection unit controls a protection operation according to the degree of impact applied to a battery pack.

[0041] FIG. 11 is a flowchart schematically illustrating an impact monitoring method according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Prior to this, terms and words used in this specification and claims should not be interpreted as being limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, and should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the present invention, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the terms to best describe his invention.

[0043] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings are merely the most preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention; thus, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications that can replace them may exist at the time of filing this application.

[0044] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., are used for the purpose of distinguishing one of the various components from the rest, and are not used to limit the components by such terms.

[0045] Throughout the specification, when a part is described as "comprising" a certain component, this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may include additional components. Furthermore, terms such as <control circuit> as described in the specification refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation and may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0046] Additionally, throughout the specification, when it is said that a part is "connected" to another part, this includes not only cases where they are "directly connected," but also cases where they are "indirectly connected" with other components in between.

[0047] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an exemplary battery pack (1) according to the present invention.

[0048] Referring to FIG. 1, the battery pack (1) may include a battery module (10) and an impact monitoring device (20).

[0049] The battery module (10) may include a single battery cell (not shown) or two or more battery cells connected in series, parallel, or a combination of series and parallel. The battery cell may be manufactured as a prototype, be manufactured and awaiting shipment, or be mounted in an electric vehicle. The type of battery cell is not particularly limited as long as it is capable of repeated charging and discharging, such as a lithium-ion cell.

[0050] The shock monitoring device (20) may include a shock detection circuit (210) and a protection unit (220). The shock monitoring device (20) may further include an information output unit (230).

[0051] The shock detection circuit (210) can detect the intensity of the shock applied to the battery pack (1). The shock detection circuit (210) may be formed on a separate board from the protection part (220) and installed on another part of the battery pack (1), or may be placed together on a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) where the protection part (220) is formed.

[0052] The shock detection circuit (210) can be connected via wired and / or wireless connections to communicate with the protection unit (220) and the information output unit (230).

[0053] The information output unit (230) may include at least one of a display device, an audio output device, or a wired / wireless communication interface as an interface means for interaction with a user.

[0054] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary shock detection circuit (210) according to the present invention. FIG. 1 may be referenced together with FIG. 2 to explain FIG. 2.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 2, the shock detection circuit (210) may include a fixed part (211), a resistive part (212), and a movable part (213).

[0056] At least a portion of the fixed part (211) may be formed of an insulator and configured to at least partially surround the resistive part (212).

[0057] The resistor portion (212) may include a plurality of resistors (references R1, R2, R3, and R4 of FIG. 3). The plurality of resistors may be spaced apart from each other.

[0058] Multiple resistors are electrically connected to each other. However, in this embodiment, a case is exemplified where four resistors are included in the resistor section (212), and it is assumed that each resistor has the same resistance value. The resistor section (212) may be arranged to at least partially surround the movable section (213).

[0059] When an impact occurs to the battery pack (1), the relative position of the movable part (213) to the resistive part (212) may change. When at least one part of the movable part (213) comes into contact with at least one part of the resistive part (212), the movable part (213) and the resistive part (212) may be electrically connected to form a single current path, and accordingly, the resistance between the first point (reference numeral N1 in FIG. 6) provided in the resistive part (212) and the second point (reference numeral N2 in FIG. 6) provided in the movable part (213) may change. Depending on the degree of impact applied to the battery pack (1), the contact state between the movable part (213) and the resistive part (212) may change.

[0060] FIGS. 3a and FIGS. 3b are cross-sectional views illustrating exemplary specific embodiments of the shock detection circuit (210) before a shock occurs to the battery pack (1).

[0061] FIG. 3a illustrates a top view of the interior of the shock detection circuit (210), and FIG. 3b illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the interior of the shock detection circuit (210) along the A-A' line of FIG. 3a. For convenience of explanation, FIG. 3a is illustrated exemplarily as having a fluid portion (213) including four resistors (R1, R2, R3 and R4).

[0062] The movable section (213) may include a plurality of conductive connecting members (U1, U2, U3, and U4). The movable section (213) may further include a support shaft (P) and a support base (Q). One end of each of the plurality of conductive connecting members (U1, U2, U3, and U4) may be coupled to the support shaft (P), and the other end of each of the plurality of conductive connecting members (U1, U2, U3, and U4) may be arranged radially from the support shaft (P). The plurality of conductive connecting members (U1, U2, U3, and U4) may be connected to the support shaft (P). By being connected to the support base (Q), the support shaft (P) can perform horizontal movement and additionally perform vertical movement.

[0063] Each end of a plurality of conductive connecting members (U1, U2, U3 and U4) may have a hook shape, but is not limited thereto. For example, as shown in FIG. 3a, the end of each conductive connecting member may have a structure in which a pair of ring-shaped wings spread out obliquely to both sides.

[0064] In this case, a pair of annular wings of each conductive connecting member may have elasticity. For example, as the end of a conductive connecting member (e.g., U4) is inserted into the space between two resistors (e.g., R1 and R4), the distance between the pair of annular wings of the conductive connecting member (e.g., U4) is narrowed by the two resistors (e.g., R1 and R4) so ​​that it can pass through the space (see FIG. 4a). When the end of the conductive connecting member (e.g., U4) passes through the space, the pair of annular wings may move away from each other by elasticity (see FIG. 5a), and accordingly, the pair of annular wings may be held in place on two parts of the outer surface of the two resistors (e.g., R1 and R4).

[0065] The movable part (213) can move movably due to an external impact and can be restored to its original position. A plurality of conductive connecting members (U1, U2, U3, and U4) are electrically connected to each other. Each of the plurality of conductive connecting members (U1, U2, U3, and U4) can be configured to be in contact with at least one resistor or separated from all of the plurality of resistors (R1, R2, R3, and R4) depending on the level of impact applied to the battery pack (1). That is, the movable part (213) can be moved by an impact applied to the battery pack (1), and can maintain a state of contact with at least one resistor when the intensity of the inertial force generated by the applied impact is greater than or equal to a preset threshold value.

[0066] Referring to FIGS. 3a and 3b, a plurality of resistors (R1, R2, R3 and R4) may be spaced apart and arranged inside the fixed portion (211). The movable portion (213) may be arranged in the inner region of the outer line formed by the plurality of resistors (R1, R2, R3 and R4). The support shaft (P) may be connected to the support base (Q). Before an impact occurs, the end of the movable portion (213) is in a non-contact state with any of the plurality of resistors, so the resistor portion (212) and the movable portion (213) can be seen as being electrically separated.

[0067] FIGS. 4a and 4b are cross-sectional views illustrating, exemplarily, the contact state between the movable part (213) and the resistive part (212) of the shock detection circuit (210) after a shock occurs to the battery pack (1). FIGS. 1 and 2 may be referenced together to explain FIGS. 4a and 4b.

[0068] FIG. 4a illustrates a top view of the interior of the shock detection circuit (210), and FIG. 4b illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the interior of the shock detection circuit (210) along the AA' line of FIG. 4a.

[0069] When an impact occurs to the battery pack (1), the fluid part (213) may move instantaneously in the direction of the impact due to inertia. That is, the plurality of conductive connecting members (U1, U2, U3 and U4) and the support shaft (P) included in the fluid part (213) move in the direction of the impact.

[0070] In the case where the end of the conductive connecting member (e.g., U4) has a hook-shaped structure, unlike in FIGS. 4a and 4b, the conductive connecting member (e.g., U4) may remain in contact with adjacent resistors (e.g., R1 and R4) without returning to its original position even after the impact is relieved. During the process in which the position of the fluid member (213) changes according to the impact applied to the battery pack (1), the end of the conductive connecting member (e.g., U4) may have a structural characteristic in which the movement of the conductive connecting member (e.g., U4) is restricted by contacting the outer surface of at least one resistor (R1, R2, R3 and R4) or by being caught in the space between adjacent resistors (e.g., R1 and R4).

[0071] At least one of the remaining conductive connecting members (e.g., U1 and U3) may come into contact with a resistor (e.g., R1 and R4). When a plurality of conductive connecting members (U1, U2, U3 and U4) come into contact with at least one resistor (R1, R2, R3 and R4), the movable part (213) and the resistive part (212) may be electrically connected instantaneously to form a single circuit.

[0072] FIGS. 5A and 5B are cross-sectional views illustrating, exemplarily, the contact state between the fluid portion (213) and the resistive portion (212) of the shock detection circuit (210) in a situation where a shock exceeding a second threshold level is applied to the battery pack (1). FIGS. 2 may be referenced together to explain FIGS. 5A and 5B.

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 5a and 5b, the position of the movable part (213) may change due to an external impact. The end of at least one conductive connecting member (e.g., U4) among the plurality of conductive connecting members (U1, U2, U3 and U4) may be inserted into the space between adjacent resistors (e.g., R1 and R4). Thus, the movable part (213) and the resistor part (212) may be electrically connected.

[0074] That is, when a plurality of conductive connecting members (U1, U2, U3 and U4) come into contact with at least one resistor due to an external impact, the movable part (213) and the resistive part (212) can be electrically connected instantaneously to form a single circuit. The process of determining the degree of impact will be described separately later with reference to FIG. 6.

[0075] When the level of impact exceeds the second critical level, the fluid portion (213) may maintain contact with the resistance portion (212) for a certain period of time. That is, when a strong impact occurs, due to the structural characteristics of the hook shape, the ends of one or more conductive connecting members (e.g., U4) may momentarily get caught between the resistors (e.g., R1 and R4) and maintain contact for a certain period of time. Additionally, the ends of the remaining conductive connecting members (e.g., U1, U3) may maintain contact with the resistors (e.g., R1 and R4) for a certain period of time.

[0076] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a resistance equivalent circuit when the shock level is below a first threshold level. FIG. 1 and FIG. 3a may be referenced together to explain FIG. 6.

[0077] Referring to FIG. 6, the resistance equivalent circuit when the shock level is below the first threshold level is as follows.

[0078] Before describing, the protection unit (220) may include a protection circuit (221a) and a fuse (221b). The protection unit (220) may further include a reference resistor (222) and a reference voltage source (223). The protection unit (220) may further include a connector.

[0079] The protection circuit (221a) can generate shock detection information using a processor (not shown), a signal output circuit (not shown), and other switching circuits (not shown), and control at least one protection operation based on the shock detection information. The processor is a computing means responsible for data processing for shock monitoring according to the invention, and can be implemented in hardware using at least one of ASICs (application specific integrated circuits), DSPs (digital signal processors), DSPDs (digital signal processing devices), PLDs (programmable logic devices), FPGAs (field programmable gate arrays), microprocessors, and other electrical units for performing functions.

[0080] The protection operation may include at least one of a fuse interruption operation, a charge / discharge limiting operation, and an impact notification operation.

[0081] The fuse interruption operation may be an operation that forcibly interrupts a fuse (221b) installed in the charging and discharging path of the battery pack (1). For example, if the protection circuit (221a) determines that the impact occurring in the battery pack (1) is a strong impact (e.g., the level of the impact exceeds a second threshold level), the protection circuit (221a) may output a fuse interruption signal (code CS in FIG. 10) to control the current interruption by the fuse (221b). Accordingly, the electrical connection with the battery module (10) is cut off, thereby reducing the possibility of additional heat generation or fire occurring after physical damage caused by the impact.

[0082] The charge / discharge limiting operation may be an operation that reduces at least one of the charge current and the discharge current. For example, if the protection circuit (221a) determines that the impact occurring to the battery pack (1) is a weak impact (e.g., the level of the impact is below the second threshold level), the protection circuit (221a) may reduce the preset maximum allowable limit of the charge current or discharge current by a predetermined ratio while maintaining an electrical connection with the battery module (10). Here, the predetermined ratio may refer to a ratio set based on preset system design conditions or experimental results to reduce the possibility of the battery temperature rising or the risk of thermal runaway after the impact occurs. Accordingly, the possibility of additional heat generation or fire caused by the impact can be reduced.

[0083] The impact notification operation may be an operation that notifies the user that a strong impact has been applied to the battery pack (1). For example, the protection circuit (221a) may control the information output unit (230) to output a warning signal to notify the user that an impact has occurred to the battery pack (1) based on the impact detection information. Accordingly, the user may recognize the status of the battery pack (1) and perform subsequent actions such as checking or replacing the battery.

[0084] The protection circuit (221a) may have a memory device. The memory device may include at least one type of storage medium among flash memory type, hard disk type, SSD type (Solid State Disk type), SSD type (Silicon Disk Drive type), multimedia card micro type, RAM (random access memory; RAM), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory; ROM), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), and PROM (programmable read-only memory). The memory device may store data and programs required for computational operations by the processor. The memory device may store data representing the result of computational operations by the processor.

[0085] The protection circuit (221a) is a voltage (V) between the first point (N1) and the second point (N2). IN Measure ) and the measured voltage (V IN Based on ) or a voltage waveform based thereon, a fuse breaking signal (code CS in FIG. 10) for blowing the fuse (221b) can be optionally output.

[0086] A first point (N1) is a point where multiple resistors (R1, R2, R3, and R4) are connected in common, and a second point (N2) is a point where multiple conductive connecting members (U1, U2, U3, and U4) are connected in common. For example, a specific point of each of the multiple resistors (R1, R2, R3, and R4) may be connected to the first point (N1) through a conductive member (e.g., a wire, a busbar). Additionally, a specific point of each of the multiple conductive connecting members (U1, U2, U3, and U4) may be connected to the second point (N2) through a conductive member.

[0087] The protection circuit (221a) has a voltage (V) between a first point (N1) where a plurality of resistors (R1, R2, R3 and R4) are mutually connected and a second point (N2) where a plurality of conductive connecting members (U1, U2, U3 and U4) are mutually connected. IN ) can be measured. The protection circuit (221a) measures the measured voltage (V IN Impact detection information regarding the battery pack (1) can be generated based on ). The impact detection information may be information including whether an impact applied to the battery pack (1) has occurred and related data. The protection circuit (221a) may be configured to control at least one protection operation for the battery pack (1) based on the impact detection information.

[0088] The protection circuit (221a) is a voltage (V) between the first point (N1) and the second point (N2). IN ) is the critical voltage (V th If it is less than ), shock detection information including a first value indicating that a shock has been applied to the battery pack (1) can be generated. Threshold voltage (V th ) is the reference voltage (V REF It may be predetermined to be smaller than ).

[0089] The protection circuit (221a) is a voltage (V) between the first point (N1) and the second point (N2). INBased on the voltage change history information of ), shock detection information including a second value representing the level of shock applied to the battery pack (1) can be generated. Here, the voltage change history information is a voltage (V) that changes over time. IN It refers to data recording the measured values ​​of ). That is, the voltage (V) between the first point (N1) and the second point (N2). IN It means information about how ) changes.

[0090] When the shock level is below the first threshold level, it means that one or more conductive connecting members (U1, U2, U3, and U4) are completely separated from one or more resistors (R1, R2, R3, and R4), and there is no mutual temporary contact.

[0091] When the level of impact exceeds the first threshold level and is below the second threshold level, it means that after one or more conductive connecting members (e.g., U1, U3, and U4) and one or more resistors (e.g., R1 and R4) temporarily come into contact due to the impact, the position of the fluid part (213) is restored to its original position.

[0092] If the level of impact exceeds the second threshold level, it means that due to the impact, one or more conductive connecting members (e.g., U1, U3, and U4) and one or more resistors (e.g., R1 and R4) remain in contact, and the fluid part (213) cannot be restored to its original position.

[0093] The protection circuit (221a) is based on voltage change history information and the voltage (V) between the first point (N1) and the second point (N2). IN ) is the critical voltage (V th The time maintained below ) is the preset threshold time (t th If it is less than ) it can be determined that the level of impact applied to the battery pack (1) is less than or equal to the second threshold level. If the level of impact is less than or equal to the second threshold level, it can be determined that a weak impact was applied.

[0094] The fuse (221b) can receive a fuse cutoff signal (code CS in FIG. 10) of the protection circuit (221a). The fuse (221b) can protect the battery module (10) by receiving the fuse cutoff signal (code CS in FIG. 10) and cutting off the current.

[0095] One end of the reference resistor (222) can be connected to either one of the pair of output terminals (e.g., the + terminal) of the reference voltage source (223). The other end of the reference resistor (222) can be connected to the second point (N2) of the movable part (213).

[0096] The reference voltage source (223) is a constant voltage, that is, a reference voltage (V REF Can output ).

[0097] The other one (- terminal) of the pair of output terminals of the reference voltage source (223) can be connected to the first point (N1) of the resistor (212).

[0098] According to this circuit configuration, when the resistance part (212) and the flow part (213) are electrically separated from each other, the first point (N1) and the second point (N2) are electrically separated, so the flow of current through the reference resistance (222) may not occur.

[0099] On the other hand, when the resistance part (212) and the flow part (213) are electrically connected to each other, the first point (N1) and the second point (N2) are electrically connected, so a current flow through the reference resistance (222) can occur.

[0100] When the shock level is below the first level, even if a shock occurs, there is no contact between the movable part (213) and the resistive part (212), and they are electrically separated from each other. Therefore, when the electrical connection between the movable part (213) and the resistive part (212) is disconnected, the reference voltage (V REF ) and voltage (V IN ) can have the same value.

[0101] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a resistance equivalent circuit when the shock level exceeds a first threshold level. FIG. 1 and FIG. 5a may be referenced together to explain FIG. 7.

[0102] The embodiment of FIG. 7 is a circuit diagram illustrating a state in which a plurality of conductive members (U1, U3, and U4) are electrically connected by contacting two resistors (e.g., R1 and R4).

[0103] Referring to FIG. 7, when an impact exceeding a first threshold level occurs in the battery pack (1), the resistive part (212) and the movable part (213) may be temporarily electrically connected to each other and then separated, or the state of being electrically connected to each other may continue. When the resistive part (212) and the movable part (213) are electrically connected to each other, a flow of current through the reference resistor (222) may occur because the first point (N1) and the second point (N2) are electrically connected. Due to the impact, current between the first point (N1) and the second point (N2) conducts, and voltage change history information may be generated.

[0104] While the first point (N1) and the second point (N2) are electrically connected, the series circuit of the reference resistor (222) and the resistor (212) can function as a type of voltage divider.

[0105] The protection unit (220) is the voltage (V) between the first point (N1) and the second point (N2). IN ) can be measured. The protection unit (220) measures the voltage (V) between the first point (N1) and the second point (N2) based on voltage change history information. IN ) is the critical voltage (V th The time maintained below ) is the preset threshold time (t thIf it exceeds ), it can be determined that the level of impact applied to the battery pack (1) has exceeded the second threshold level. If the level of impact exceeds the second threshold level, it can be determined that a strong impact has been applied.

[0106] In other words, if the level of impact applied to the battery pack (1) exceeds a second threshold level, that is, if the end of at least one conductive connecting member (e.g., U4) is caught on the outer surface of two adjacent resistors (e.g., R1 and R4) among a plurality of resistors and cannot return to its original position, the protection unit (220) may determine that a strong impact has occurred. The voltage (V) detected by the protection unit (220) while the movable part (213) and the resistive part (212) are in contact as shown in FIG. 4a or FIG. 5a. IN ) can be expressed by the following mathematical formula.

[0107] <Mathematical Formula>

[0108]

[0109] If a shock exceeding the first threshold level occurs to the battery pack (1), the reference voltage (V REF ) and critical voltage (V th In contrast to ) Voltage (V) between the first point (N1) and the second point (N2) In ) is instantaneously lowered. That is, the voltage (V) between the first point (N1) and the second point (N2) is lowered. IN ) is the reference voltage (V REF It decreases to less than )

[0110] However, depending on the level of shock, the critical voltage (V th The time maintained below ) may vary. Specifically, if a shock exceeding the second threshold level occurs to the battery pack (1), the voltage (V) between the first point (N1) and the second point (N2) is instantaneously IN ) is the reference voltage (V REFThe voltage (V) between the first point (N1) and the second point (N2) decreases to less than ) IN ) is the critical voltage (V th The time maintained below ) is the preset threshold time (t th It can exceed ).

[0111] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a voltage waveform when the fluid portion (213) is restored to its original position after an impact occurs. FIG. 2, FIG. 4a, and FIG. 6 may be referenced together to explain FIG. 8.

[0112] When an impact occurs and at least one conductive connecting member (U1, U2, U3 and U4) comes into contact with at least one resistor (R1, R2, R3 and R4), they become electrically connected to each other, and the voltage (V) between the first point (N1) and the second point (N2) IN ) is the reference voltage (V REF It can be reduced to less than ). In the case of an impact exceeding the first threshold level and below the second threshold level, at least one conductive connecting member (U1, U2, U3, and U4) may instantaneously come into contact with one or more resistors (R1, R2, R3, and R4), thereby electrically connecting the movable part (213) and the resistive part (212). Subsequently, the movable part (213) may be electrically disconnected as it returns to its position before the impact. Therefore, in the case of an impact exceeding the first threshold level and below the second threshold level, the voltage waveform instantaneously [is] the voltage (V IN ) is the critical voltage (V th It decreases compared to ), but within a certain time, the reference voltage (V) is restored. REF It can take the form of recovering as ).

[0113] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a voltage waveform in the case where the movable part (213) is not restored to its original position after an impact occurs. FIG. 2, FIG. 5a, and FIG. 8 may be referenced together to explain FIG. 9.

[0114] When an impact occurs and at least one conductive connecting member (U1, U2, U3 and U4) comes into contact with at least one resistor (R1, R2, R3 and R4), the voltage (V) between the first point (N1) and the second point (N2) IN ) is the reference voltage (V REF It can be reduced to less than ). In the case of an impact exceeding the second threshold level, the end of at least one conductive connecting member (e.g., U4) cannot be restored to its original position as it is caught on the outer surface of two adjacent resistors (e.g., R1 and R4) among the plurality of resistors. Therefore, while at least one resistor (e.g., R1 and R4) remains in contact with at least one conductive connecting member (e.g., U1, U3, and U4), the voltage (V) between the first point (N1) and the second point (N2) is maintained. IN ) is the critical voltage (V th ) can be maintained below. That is, in the case of a strong shock, the voltage waveform is the voltage (V) between the first point (N1) and the second point (N2). IN ) is the critical voltage (V th For a certain time (t) less than ) th It can take on a form maintained above )

[0115] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a protection unit (220) controls a protection operation according to the degree of impact applied to the battery pack (1).

[0116] Referring to FIG. 10, the protection unit (220) can block the flow of current of the battery pack (1) according to the degree of impact applied to the battery pack (1). That is, if it is determined that an impact of a second threshold level or higher has been applied to the battery pack (1), the protection circuit (221a) can output a fuse cutoff signal (CS).

[0117] A fuse (221b) may be installed as part of the charging / discharging path of a battery module (10). In FIG. 10, a fuse (221b) is shown installed in the charging / discharging path connecting the positive terminal of the battery module (10) and the first power terminal (+) of the battery pack. The fuse (221b) can be cut by a fuse cut signal (CS), thereby protecting the battery module (10) by cutting off the current of the battery module (10). Thus, the protection unit (220) can control the battery pack (1) to operate normally by performing at least one protection operation. Conversely, if the protection circuit (221a) determines that there is a weak impact, it may not output a fuse cut signal (CS). Thus, the fuse (221b) can maintain the line so that the current flows normally without cutting off the current.

[0118] FIG. 11 is a flowchart schematically illustrating an impact monitoring method according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 11, in step S1110, the protection unit (220) has a voltage (V) between a first point (N1) where a plurality of resistors (R1, R2, R3 and R4) are mutually connected and a second point (N2) where a plurality of conductive connecting members (U1, U2, U3 and U4) are mutually connected. IN ) can be measured.

[0120] In step S1120, the protection unit (220) is the voltage (V) measured in step S1110. IN Impact detection information can be generated based on ).

[0121] Specifically, the voltage (V) between the first point (N1) and the second point (N2) IN ) is the critical voltage (V th If it is less than ), shock detection information including a first value indicating that a shock has been applied to the battery pack (1) can be generated.

[0122] The protection unit (220) is the voltage (V) between the first point (N1) and the second point (N2). IN Based on the voltage change history information of ), shock detection information including a second value representing the level of shock applied to the battery pack (1) can be generated. Here, the voltage change history information refers to data recording voltage values ​​that change over time. That is, the voltage (V) between the first point (N1) and the second point (N2). IN It means information about how ) changes.

[0123] In other words, the protection unit (220) based on voltage change history information, the voltage (V) between the first point (N1) and the second point (N2) IN ) is the critical voltage (V th The time maintained below ) is the critical time (t th It can determine whether it exceeds ). Critical time (t th If it exceeds ), the protection unit (220) may determine that the level of impact applied to the battery pack (1) exceeds the second threshold level. Therefore, the protection unit (220) may determine that a strong impact has been applied to the battery pack (1). Conversely, the voltage (V) between the first point (N1) and the second point (N2) IN ) is below the critical voltage (V th The time maintained as ) is the critical time (t th If it is less than ) the protection unit (220) can determine that the level of impact applied to the battery pack (1) is less than or equal to the second threshold level. Therefore, the protection unit (220) can determine that a weak impact has been applied to the battery pack (1).

[0124] In step S1130, the protection unit (220) can control the protection operation based on shock detection information.

[0125] In detail, if the shock detection information includes a second value indicating that a shock exceeding a second threshold level has been applied to the battery pack (1), the protection unit (220) can control at least one protection operation for the battery pack (1). The operation for protecting the battery pack (1) may include the fuse cutoff function described above with reference to FIG. 10. Of course, the protection operation is not limited to the fuse cutoff function. For example, the protection operation may further include at least one of a charge / discharge limiting operation and a shock notification operation. Accordingly, the protection unit (220) can control the operation for protecting the battery pack (1) to reduce the severity of the risk of fire, etc., in the event of damage to the battery module (10) caused by the shock.

[0126] Voltage (V IN ) is below the critical voltage (V th critical time (t) th While being maintained above ) voltage (V IN ) suddenly critical voltage (V th If the change is greater than ) the protection part (220) can determine that at least one of the resistance part (212) and the flow part (213) is damaged.

[0127] The protection unit (220) can execute a damage notification operation. The damage notification operation may be an operation that notifies the user of damage to at least one of the resistance unit (212) and the flow unit (213). The protection unit (220) can control the information output unit (230) to output a damage notification signal.

[0128] Another embodiment of the present invention may provide a computer-readable medium having a program recorded thereon for executing the various embodiments described above on a computer.

[0129] A program may be implemented as hardware components, software components, and / or a combination of hardware and software components. A program may be executed by any system capable of executing computer-readable instructions.

[0130] Software may include computer programs, code, instructions, or a combination thereof, and may configure a processing unit to operate as desired or command the processing unit independently or collectively.

[0131] Software can be implemented as a computer program containing instructions stored on a computer-readable storage media. Examples of computer-readable storage 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-ROMs, DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs)). Computer-readable storage media can be distributed across networked computer systems, allowing computer-readable code to be stored and executed in a distributed manner. The storage media can be read by a computer, stored in memory, and executed by a processor.

[0132] Computer-readable media may be provided in the form of non-transitory recording media. Here, 'non-transitory storage media' simply means that it is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily. For example, 'non-transitory storage media' may include a buffer in which data is stored temporarily.

[0133] In addition, the program may be provided as part of a computer program product. Computer program products may be traded between a seller and a buyer as goods.

[0134] A computer program product may include a software program or a computer-readable recording medium on which the software program is stored. For example, a computer program product may include a product in the form of a software program that is distributed electronically through a manufacturer of an electronic device or an electronic market (e.g., a downloadable application). For electronic distribution, at least a portion of the software program may be stored on a recording medium or temporarily created. In this case, the recording medium may be a server of the manufacturer of the electronic device, a server of the electronic market, or a recording medium of a relay server that temporarily stores the software program.

[0135] The embodiments of the present invention described above are not limited to implementation through devices and methods, but may also be implemented through a program that realizes a function corresponding to the configuration of the embodiments of the present invention or a recording medium on which such a program is recorded. Such implementation can be easily achieved by a person skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains, based on the description of the embodiments described above.

[0136] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious that various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the technical spirit of the present invention and the equivalent scope of the claims described below by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs.

[0137] Furthermore, since the present invention described above allows for various substitutions, modifications, and changes within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention to those skilled in the art without departing from the technical spirit of the present invention, it is not limited by the aforementioned embodiments and attached drawings, but rather all or part of each embodiment may be selectively combined to allow for various modifications.

Claims

1. In a shock monitoring device for a battery pack, Includes an impact detection circuit, The above shock detection circuit is, A resistor comprising a plurality of resistors spaced apart from each other; and A movable part configured to contact at least one of the plurality of resistors when the position is changed by an impact applied to the battery pack; Shock monitoring device including 2. In Paragraph 1, A protection unit that measures the voltage between a first point where the plurality of resistors are mutually connected and a second point provided in the movable part, and generates shock detection information regarding the battery pack based on the measured voltage; Shock monitoring device further including 3. In Paragraph 2, The above protective part is, An impact monitoring device configured to control at least one protection operation for the battery pack based on the above impact detection information.

4. In Paragraph 2, When the above at least one resistor contacts the above-mentioned moving part, the voltage between the first point and the second point drops below a reference voltage, and Shock monitoring device in which, while at least one resistor is maintained in contact with the fluid portion, the voltage between the first point and the second point is maintained below a reference voltage.

5. In Paragraph 2, The above protective part is, A shock monitoring device configured to generate shock detection information including a first value indicating that a shock has been applied to the battery pack when the voltage between the first point and the second point is less than a threshold voltage.

6. In Paragraph 2, The above protective part is, A shock monitoring device configured to generate shock detection information including a second value representing the level of shock applied to the battery pack, based on voltage change history information between the first point and the second point.

7. In Paragraph 6, The above protective part is, A shock monitoring device configured to determine that the level of shock applied to the battery pack has exceeded a threshold level when, based on the above voltage change history information, the time during which the voltage between the first point and the second point is maintained below a threshold voltage exceeds a threshold time.

8. In Paragraph 7, The above protective part is, An impact monitoring device configured to determine that at least one of the resistive part and the movable part is damaged when, after the time during which the voltage between the first point and the second point is maintained below the threshold voltage exceeds the threshold time, the voltage changes above the threshold voltage.

9. In Paragraph 6, The above protective part is, A shock monitoring device configured to determine that the level of shock applied to the battery pack is below a threshold level when, based on the above voltage change history information, the time during which the voltage between the first point and the second point is maintained below a threshold voltage is below a threshold time.

10. In Paragraph 1, The above fluid section is, An impact monitoring device configured to contact at least one resistor or be spaced apart from all of the plurality of resistors depending on the level of impact applied to the battery pack.

11. In Paragraph 1, The above fluid section is, It includes a plurality of conductive connecting members, One end of each of the plurality of conductive connecting members is commonly connected to a second point, and An impact monitoring device in which the other end of each of the plurality of conductive connecting members protrudes radially from the second point toward the outer edge formed by the resistance member.

12. In Paragraph 11, The other end of each of the above plurality of conductive connecting members is, Impact monitoring device having a hook shape.

13. A battery pack comprising a shock monitoring device according to any one of paragraphs 1 to 12.

14. A shock monitoring method executable by a shock monitoring device comprising: a resistor portion including a plurality of resistors spaced apart from each other; a movable portion configured to contact at least one of the plurality of resistors when its position is changed by an impact applied to a battery pack; and a protection portion. The above protection unit measures the voltage between a first point where the plurality of resistors are mutually connected and a second point provided in the movable unit; and The above protection unit generates shock detection information regarding the battery pack based on the measured voltage; Shock monitoring method including 15. A computer-readable medium storing a program for executing the shock monitoring method according to paragraph 14 on a computer.

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