Battery Disconnect Switching for Backup Power and Storage Life
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices with internal rechargeable batteries face battery degradation due to prolonged disuse, leading to rapid discharge and reduced lifespan, especially in devices like retail security positions and docking systems that often remain unused for extended periods.
Innovation Solution
Implementing switching circuitry that selectively connects or disconnects the battery from the operational circuitry based on external power availability, using criteria such as charge level and user commands to prevent unnecessary drainage, thereby maintaining the battery's charge and extending its lifespan.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the battery remains connected to operational circuitry during extended periods of non-use, then the battery provides backup power capability, but the battery drains and degrades significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by detecting storage conditions ahead of time and proactively disconnecting the battery before significant drainage occurs. The battery manager monitors device state and external power availability, then preemptively opens the switch to isolate the battery when storage mode is detected, preventing the harmful drainage effect before it can degrade the battery.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic control by continuously monitoring device state, external power availability, and battery charge level, then adaptively adjusting the battery connection state. The switch between connected and disconnected states is dynamically controlled based on real-time conditions, allowing the system to optimize between backup power readiness and battery preservation.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If the battery is disconnected during extended periods of non-use, then battery lifespan is extended, but backup power capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where the battery manager continuously monitors device state, external power availability, and battery charge level. Based on this feedback, the system determines whether to maintain connection or disconnect the battery. The feedback loop ensures that backup power capability is maintained when needed while enabling disconnection when storage conditions are detected.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service by autonomously managing battery connection state without requiring user intervention. The battery manager automatically detects storage mode, monitors battery charge level, and controls the switch to maintain optimal battery health while ensuring backup power readiness when external power is unavailable.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If switching circuitry is added to control battery connection, then battery drainage is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary component, the battery manager, that mediates between the operational circuitry and the battery. This intermediary monitors system state and controls the switch, providing intelligent battery management without requiring complex user interfaces or additional hardware beyond the switching circuitry and control logic.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems that selectively controls whether a battery is electronically connected to or disconnected from operational circuitry of an electronic device are described. The switching circuitry electronically connects the battery with operational circuitry in response to external electric power being available to the operational circuitry, thereby allowing the battery to be available as a backup source of electrical power for the operational circuitry when external electric power is lost. Methods and systems also electronically disconnect the battery from the operational circuitry in response to a loss of external electric power to the operational circuitry. As a result, undesirable battery drainage is avoided if the device is left in storage or is not being used for an extended period of time.