Battery Capacity Detector Using Adjustable Threshold References
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting the capacity of energy storage units like Li-Ion batteries require expensive micro-controllers and extensive circuitry to accommodate different chemistries and current ranges, and they may not effectively handle voltage variations due to temperature and frequency changes.
Innovation Solution
A capacity detector system using first and second buffers to generate adjustable threshold references based on the chemistry of the energy storage unit, coupled with a voltage divider to provide capacity references indicating capacity percentages according to voltage versus capacity characteristics, allowing for compatibility with various battery chemistries and applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional Coulomb counting or cell voltage measurement methods are used, then battery capacity can be detected, but expensive micro-controllers and extensive circuitry are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of capacity detection from complex micro-controller-based systems and implements it using a simplified analog circuit consisting of buffers, voltage dividers, and comparators. This removes the need for expensive micro-controllers while retaining the core measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces expensive, complex electronic components (micro-controllers) with inexpensive, simple analog circuit elements (buffers, resistors, comparators) that can be easily manufactured and replaced, significantly reducing system cost and complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional methods are used, then capacity detection is possible, but compatibility with different battery chemistries and current ranges is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs adjustable reference voltages and programmable threshold values that can be dynamically configured to match different battery chemistry characteristics and current ranges. This dynamic adaptability allows the same hardware circuit to accurately measure various battery types without requiring physical redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes key electrical parameters (reference voltages, threshold levels, divider ratios) to accommodate different battery chemistries and operating conditions. By adjusting these parameters, the system maintains measurement precision across diverse battery types including Li-Ion, NiMH, and lead-acid batteries.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable threshold references are used for different battery chemistries, then compatibility improves, but circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal analog circuit architecture that can handle multiple battery chemistries and measurement functions using the same core components. The buffers, voltage dividers, and comparators serve multiple purposes: generating reference voltages, scaling measurement signals, and determining capacity thresholds, thereby avoiding the need for separate dedicated circuits for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
A capacity detector for detecting capacity of an energy storage unit includes a first and a second buffers and a voltage divider. The first buffer is used for generating a first threshold reference according to a first adjustable reference which is predetermined based upon chemistry of the energy storage unit. The second buffer is used for generating a second threshold reference according to a second adjustable reference which is predetermined based upon chemistry of the energy storage unit. The voltage divider coupled to the first buffer and the second buffer is used for dividing a voltage across the first threshold reference and the second threshold reference and for generating capacity references indicating capacity percentages of the energy storage unit according to a voltage versus capacity characteristic of the energy storage unit.