Battery Disconnect Switch Self-Diagnosis Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery systems lack a reliable method to test the functionality of the disconnecting element, which is crucial for ensuring safety during emergencies, as failures in these elements can impair the battery system's operation and pose safety risks.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a circuit for generating a test current using a power semiconductor and resistor, arranged in parallel with the battery, along with a switchable bypass circuit and a microprocessor for controlling the separating element, allows for the diagnosis of the disconnecting element's status, ensuring timely detection and replacement of faulty components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a means for testing the functionality of the separating element is provided, then the safety of the battery system is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The test current generator circuit is integrated into the existing battery management system, combining the testing function with the power management circuitry. The power semiconductor and resistor are arranged in parallel with the battery, merging the test function into the existing electrical architecture rather than adding a completely separate testing system.
Solution Approach 2:
The microprocessor performs multiple functions including controlling the separating element, managing battery operations, and diagnosing the separating element's functionality. The same microprocessor that manages normal battery operations is also used to generate test currents and evaluate the separating element's status, eliminating the need for dedicated testing hardware.
2Reliability
If a circuit for generating test current with power semiconductor and resistor is added, then the functionality testing capability is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The test current generator uses simple, inexpensive components such as a power semiconductor and a resistor that can be easily manufactured and replaced. These components are arranged in parallel with the battery and can be integrated during standard manufacturing processes without requiring expensive specialized testing equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery system performs self-diagnosis of the separating element using its own internal resources. The microprocessor controls the test current generation and automatically evaluates the separating element's functionality, eliminating the need for external testing equipment and reducing manufacturing costs.
3Measurement precision
If the separating element functionality is tested using a microprocessor, then the diagnosis precision is improved, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The test current is generated as a current pulse rather than a continuous current. The microprocessor activates the test current generator periodically to diagnose the separating element, rather than continuously monitoring, which significantly reduces energy consumption while maintaining diagnostic capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The test current is applied only when needed for diagnosis, not continuously. The microprocessor initiates test current generation only when separating element status needs to be evaluated, using partial action (intermittent testing) rather than continuous monitoring, thereby reducing overall energy consumption.
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
This approach enhances the safety and reliability of the battery system by enabling the detection of the disconnecting element's status, ensuring it can properly disconnect the voltage source from the consumer in emergencies, thereby preventing potential hazards.
Implementation Method 1
A method involves a circuit for generating a test current using a power semiconductor and resistor, arranged in parallel with the battery
Implementation Method 2
a means for measuring the bypass current flowing through the bypass circuit is provided
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a battery system (1), in particular for a motor vehicle, comprising at least one battery (3). A switchable electromechanical component (7), such as an electric switching contact, an electric switch, a relay or similar, for disconnecting the electric connection from the battery (3), is electrically connected to the battery (3). Means (8) for testing the functional capacity of the electromechanical component (7) used for disconnecting the electric connection is provided for the battery system (1).