Adaptive Battery Charging for Electronic Smoking Devices
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Lithium ion battery charging systems face limitations in fast charging due to the aging of the charging battery, which increases internal resistance and reduces the voltage delivery, necessitating frequent recharging or replacement.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that dynamically adjust the charging current based on the output voltage of the charging battery, reducing the current when the voltage falls below a threshold to maintain efficient charging, allowing the battery to support more charging cycles before needing recharging or replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If constant current charging is used to maximize fast charging speed, then charging speed is improved, but the charging battery voltage must increase to compensate for increasing second battery voltage, which shortens the charging battery's operational life
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static constant current charging approach to a dynamic charging method where the current is adjusted in real-time based on the charging battery's voltage output. The system dynamically switches between constant current phase (when voltage is sufficient) and reduced current phase (when voltage drops below threshold), optimizing both charging speed and battery lifespan.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the charging current parameter based on the charging battery's voltage state. During the constant current phase, maximum current Ich is applied. When voltage drops below threshold Vth, the current is reduced to a lower value to maintain voltage above the threshold, thereby extending the charging battery's operational life while still providing effective charging.
2Productivity
If high charging current is maintained to support fast charging, then charging efficiency is improved, but the charging battery's internal resistance increases with age, reducing voltage delivery and requiring frequent replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by continuously monitoring the charging battery's output voltage and adjusting the charging current accordingly. When voltage drops below threshold Vth, the system reduces current to prevent excessive voltage drop, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to the aging battery's changing characteristics and maintains reliable operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts to the charging battery's aging by adjusting operating parameters. As internal resistance increases with age, the system automatically transitions to reduced current mode when voltage thresholds are not met, allowing the aging battery to continue providing reliable charging service for extended periods.
3Productivity
If the charging battery delivers minimum voltage for fast charging operation, then fast charging capability is maintained, but the battery must be recharged or replaced more frequently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by proactively reducing charging current when voltage approaches the threshold, rather than waiting for voltage to drop below acceptable levels. This preventive approach extends the charging battery's operational life and reduces the frequency of recharges required.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically extends operational time by adjusting current based on real-time voltage measurements, allowing the charging battery to maintain adequate voltage levels for longer periods and reducing the frequency of recharges needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of charging a second battery in an electronic smoking device from a first battery in a charging device is provided, including: comparing an output voltage of the first battery with a threshold voltage; and when the output voltage is equal to or greater than the threshold voltage, charging the second battery using a first current; and when the output voltage is less than the threshold voltage, reducing the first current until the output voltage is equal to or greater than a second threshold voltage. A charging device is also provided, including control circuitry configured to control charging of the secondary battery.