Battery Charging Control Using Deterioration-Based Power Limits

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing charging systems do not consider the state of the batteries when determining power input and output, leading to potential deterioration due to unsuitable charging and discharging conditions.

Innovation Solution

A control device that adjusts power input and output to low-voltage batteries based on index values indicating deterioration, setting a specified range for safe operation, using sensors to monitor battery health and adjust converters accordingly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If power from solar panel is supplied to low-voltage battery and high-voltage battery based only on generated power value, then charging system operation is simplified, but battery deterioration occurs due to unsuitable charging conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharging control complexityVSAvoidbattery durability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The control device acquires index values indicating battery state (deterioration degree, temperature, charge level) and uses this feedback to dynamically adjust power input/output to the low-voltage battery. This feedback mechanism ensures charging conditions are suitable for battery health while maintaining automated control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The control device dynamically adjusts the power input and output to the low-voltage battery based on real-time battery state index values. The power flow is not fixed but adapts to changing battery conditions, optimizing both battery health and system operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If power input and output to low-voltage battery is adjusted based on battery state index values, then battery deterioration is suppressed, but control system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebattery durabilityVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control device performs multiple functions: it manages power flow from the solar panel to both low-voltage and high-voltage batteries, monitors battery state through index values, and adjusts power input/output based on battery conditions. This multi-functionality is achieved within a single control device rather than requiring separate systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The control device changes operational parameters (power input and output levels) based on battery state index values. By adjusting these parameters dynamically, the system optimizes battery health without requiring fundamentally new control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If specified range of power input and output is set for low-voltage battery, then battery deterioration is suppressed, but power conversion efficiency may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebattery durabilityVSAvoidpower conversion loss
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The control device applies partial action by adjusting power input and output within a specified range rather than maximizing or minimizing power flow. This partial adjustment is sufficient to protect battery health while avoiding excessive power conversion losses that would occur with more aggressive control measures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution effectively suppresses battery deterioration by optimizing power flow according to battery state, enhancing conversion efficiency and reducing power reduction, thereby extending battery life.

Implementation Method 1

The solar panel is configured to generate power by receiving irradiation of sunlight

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Implementation Method 2

The first converter is configured to convert a voltage of the power from the solar panel and output voltage-converted power

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 3

The second converter is configured to convert a voltage of the power from the first converter and a voltage of power from the low-voltage battery and output voltage-converted power

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 4

The low-voltage battery is configured to be charged by receiving the power from the first converter

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrochemical reaction: Battery (electricity)

Implementation Method 5

The high-voltage battery is configured to be charged by receiving the power from the second converter

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrochemical reaction: Battery (electricity)

Data Source

PatentUS20260018917A1Control device for charging system
Publication Date: 2026.01.15 TOYOTA JIDOSHA KK
  • US20260018917A1 patent drawing
  • US20260018917A1 patent drawing
  • US20260018917A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A control device of a charging system is configured to execute acquiring a first index value indicating a deterioration degree of a low-voltage battery of the charging system, acquiring a second index value indicating a degree of whether or not a state in which the low-voltage battery is placed is a state in which the state is likely to deteriorate, and setting a specified range that is a range of input and output power to the low-voltage battery based on the first index value and the second index value.