Battery Pack BMS Automatic Mode Configuration via Communication Network

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing battery pack management systems require manual mode setting using hardware switches, which increases manufacturing costs and is prone to errors due to incorrect settings.

Innovation Solution

A method for driving a battery pack using a communication network to automatically set rack battery management systems (BMS) as master or slave based on response data, eliminating the need for additional hardware switches and reducing the likelihood of errors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual mode setting using hardware switches is used, then the BMS mode can be configured, but manufacturing costs increase and errors occur due to incorrect settings

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesetting accuracyVSAvoidhardware switch
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical hardware switch system with an electronic communication network system. The BMS units automatically determine their master/slave roles through data communication and protocol-based negotiation, eliminating the need for manual mechanical switching while improving setting accuracy and reducing human error.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The BMS units automatically configure their own modes through communication network interaction. Each BMS unit autonomously determines whether to become master or slave based on receiving specific data values through the communication network, without requiring external manual intervention or additional hardware switches.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If additional hardware switches are added for mode setting, then the BMS can be configured, but manufacturing costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemode configuration capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The communication network serves multiple functions: it transmits battery management data, enables master/slave mode configuration, and facilitates automatic role assignment. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for dedicated hardware switches, reducing component count and manufacturing costs while maintaining full configuration capability.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the mode configuration function with the existing communication network infrastructure. Instead of adding separate hardware switches, the configuration capability is integrated into the data communication protocol, combining multiple functions into a single system and reducing overall manufacturing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Device complexity

If automatic mode setting through communication network is used, then hardware costs are reduced, but communication protocol complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehardware structureVSAvoidcommunication protocol
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses specific data value parameters (such as 0xC6) transmitted through the communication network to trigger mode changes. By changing the data parameter values and their interpretation, the system achieves automatic configuration without complex hardware modifications, keeping the protocol relatively simple while maintaining functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS9853474B2Battery pack and driving method thereof
Publication Date: 2017.12.26 SAMSUNG SDI CO LTD
  • US9853474B2 patent drawing
  • US9853474B2 patent drawing
  • US9853474B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A battery pack and a driving method thereof are disclosed. In one aspect, the method includes outputting first data at the first rack BMS, determining whether a response to the first data has been received, and driving the first rack BMS based on whether the response has been received.