Battery Equalizing Circuit for Rapid Cell Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power source apparatuses with high output voltage and current require time-consuming cell balancing processes, especially when numerous batteries are connected in series and parallel, leading to inefficiencies and potential over-charging or over-discharging due to voltage imbalances.
Innovation Solution
A power source apparatus with a configuration of battery cells connected in parallel as packs, and packs connected in series as units, utilizing first and second equalizing circuits to balance cell capacities on a block basis, allowing for rapid and efficient cell balancing, and incorporating detachable connectors for easy maintenance and cost reduction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If many batteries are connected in series and parallel to increase output power, then power output is improved, but cell balancing time becomes extremely long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the battery array into multiple strings, where each string contains series-connected batteries. Equalizing circuits are implemented at the string level rather than individually for each battery, segmenting the balancing process into manageable units that can be processed simultaneously, thereby reducing overall balancing time while maintaining high power output capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple batteries in parallel within each string to create battery packs with increased current capacity. By equalizing at the string level rather than individual battery level, the system merges the balancing operations of multiple batteries into a single coordinated process, significantly reducing the time required to balance the entire array while preserving high power output.
2Reliability
If individual cell balancing is performed on each battery, then cell balance is achieved, but the process becomes extremely time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the battery array into multiple independent strings, each equipped with its own equalizing circuit. This segmentation allows parallel processing of equalization across multiple strings simultaneously, maintaining reliable cell balance within each string while dramatically increasing overall equalization speed compared to sequential individual battery balancing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements equalizing circuits at the string level rather than individually for each battery, applying partial action to representative samples within each string. This approach achieves sufficient cell balance for reliable operation while avoiding the excessive time consumption of individual battery equalization, optimizing the balance between reliability and productivity.
3Reliability
If discharge circuits with switching devices are used to equalize battery voltages, then voltage imbalance is eliminated, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the equalizing function into modular units at the string level, with each string having its own dedicated equalizing circuit. This segmentation simplifies the control logic within each module while maintaining overall voltage balance across the entire battery array, reducing system complexity compared to a centralized individual battery management approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The equalizing circuits are designed with multi-functionality, serving both voltage equalization and cell balancing purposes at the string level. This universal approach eliminates the need for separate individual battery management circuits, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable voltage balance across all batteries in the array.
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 configuration enables rapid and efficient cell balancing, reduces downtime, and lowers costs by allowing individual battery pack replacement, effectively utilizing power to equalize voltages and prevent imbalances, thereby enhancing the reliability and efficiency of high-power output systems.
Implementation Method 1
Each equalizing circuit has a series circuit including an equalizing switch and a current limiting resistor... the high voltage battery cell is discharged to equalize the voltage between the battery cells
Implementation Method 2
A power source apparatus with both high output voltage and high output current has many batteries (or battery cells) connected in series to increase the output voltage... With the repetition of charge-discharge cycles, battery voltage and/or remaining charge capacity imbalance will develop between batteries
Data Source
AI summary
A power source apparatus includes first equalizing circuits to control remaining charge capacity variation among a plurality of battery units, and second equalizing circuits to control remaining charge capacity variation among all the series-connected battery packs that make up each battery unit. A first equalizing circuit connects each battery unit with an output line OL through a first series circuit made up of a first limiting resistor and first equalizing switch. Remaining charge capacity variation is equalized among all the battery units by the first equalizing circuits, and remaining charge capacity variation between battery packs in each battery unit is controlled by the second equalizing circuits.