Battery Charge Pulse Modulation for Internal Resistance Estimation

The patent extracts only the essential information needed for resistance estimation by using predefined current pulses with specific characteristics (amplitude, duration, timing). Instead of continuously storing and analyzing all current and voltage data at high sampling rates, the system only captures data during the specific pulse events, significantly reducing data storage and processing requirements while maintaining estimation accuracy.

The patent implements periodic current pulses at predefined intervals during constant current charging phases. These regular, scheduled pulses allow the system to estimate resistance at specific moments without requiring continuous high-rate sampling and processing, thereby reducing the computational burden on the BMS while still providing timely resistance estimates.

The patent specifies precise parameter changes for the current pulses, including amplitude (e.g., 5A), duration (e.g., 1 second), and timing (at specific SOC points or time intervals). By controlling these parameters, the system ensures that each pulse produces consistent voltage responses, leading to reliable and repeatable resistance estimates. The predefined nature of these parameters eliminates the inconsistency caused by uncontrolled pulses.

The patent performs preliminary setup by defining the current pulse characteristics and timing conditions before the actual resistance estimation process. The BMS is pre-programmed with the pulse specifications and trigger conditions, so when the estimated SOC or time conditions are met, the predetermined pulses are automatically applied. This preliminary configuration ensures consistent pulse application without requiring complex real-time detection and adjustment.

The patent extracts only the critical data points needed for pulse event capture by focusing measurements specifically during the predefined pulse intervals. Instead of continuously sampling and storing all data, the system activates high-rate sampling only during the brief periods when current pulses are applied and for a short duration afterward to capture the voltage response. This selective data extraction significantly reduces storage requirements while ensuring complete capture of relevant pulse events.

The patent employs periodic current pulses at predetermined intervals during charging, which allows the system to use periodic data sampling synchronized with these pulses. The BMS knows exactly when pulses will occur based on the predefined schedule or SOC thresholds, so it can activate high-rate sampling only at these specific moments rather than maintaining continuous high-rate sampling. This periodic approach ensures reliable pulse event capture while minimizing data storage and processing demands.