Battery Module Balancing via Conversion Circuitry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rechargeable battery systems with multiple cells often suffer from uneven charging and discharging due to manufacturing tolerances, leading to variations in internal resistances and impedances, which can result in undesirable rate differences during operations.
Innovation Solution
A battery system incorporating conversion circuitry and balance circuitry to modify electrical characteristics, allowing for the equalization of state of charge across cells by coupling battery modules in series and using switching and control circuitry to manage energy distribution between modules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple rechargeable cells are used in a battery system, then the electrical energy capacity and power output are improved, but the uniformity of charging and discharging rates deteriorates due to manufacturing tolerances and varying internal resistances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing individual balancing circuits for each battery cell or module, allowing localized adjustment of charging and discharging rates. Each cell can be monitored and controlled independently through switching circuitry that connects balancing resistors or charge pumps to specific cells, ensuring uniform performance across the entire battery pack despite manufacturing variations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes electrical parameters dynamically by monitoring voltage, current, and temperature of each cell and adjusting charging/discharging rates accordingly. The control system modifies operational parameters such as resistance values, switching frequencies, and current distribution to maintain uniformity across cells with different internal resistances and capacities
2Power
If battery modules are connected in series to increase voltage output, then the power delivery capability is improved, but the risk of uneven state of charge across modules increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by continuously monitoring the state of charge, voltage, and current of each series-connected battery module. The control system uses this feedback information to adjust switching sequences, modify charge/discharge rates, and activate balancing circuits for modules that deviate from the target state, ensuring all modules remain synchronized throughout operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing pre-charging or pre-discharging operations on individual modules before connecting them to the main load or charge source. This preliminary adjustment ensures that all modules start at a uniform state of charge, preventing uneven charge distribution during subsequent series operation
3Ease of manufacture
If individual cell variations are allowed due to manufacturing tolerances, then the ease of manufacture and cost are improved, but the performance consistency and operational reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables self-service by implementing automated monitoring and balancing systems that detect and correct cell variations without manual intervention. The system automatically identifies cells with abnormal voltage, current, or temperature and applies corrective actions such as adjusting charging rates or activating balancing circuits, maintaining performance consistency while accepting manufacturing tolerances
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 ensures balanced charging and discharging of battery modules, maintaining equal state of charge within a threshold, thereby improving the overall performance and longevity of the battery system by preventing uneven wear and maintaining efficient energy distribution.
Implementation Method 1
conversion circuitry configured to modify an electrical characteristic of electrical energy received from a first of the battery modules and to output the electrical energy having the modified characteristic to a second of the battery modules
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure includes battery systems and operational methods. According to one aspect, a battery system includes conversion circuitry, a plurality of main terminals configured to be coupled with a load, a charger and a plurality of rechargeable battery modules which are coupled in series with one another intermediate the main terminals, switching circuitry configured to couple a first of the battery modules with an input of the conversion circuitry, and the conversion circuitry being configured to modify an electrical characteristic of electrical energy received from the first of the battery modules and to output the electrical energy having the modified characteristic to a second of the battery modules.