Battery Pack Indicator Circuit Wireless Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery packs require manual interaction for testing and do not efficiently utilize internal volume for advanced processing and communication capabilities, limiting their functionality and space for electrochemical cells.
Innovation Solution
A battery pack design incorporating an integrated circuit and antenna-based indicator circuit that allows wireless communication of battery characteristics, such as voltage or capacity, without reducing the internal volume available for electrochemical cells, enabling remote monitoring and advanced processing without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a battery pack includes advanced processing and communication capabilities (integrated circuit and antenna), then functionality is improved, but internal volume for electrochemical cells is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the indicator circuit components (integrated circuit and antenna) on the external surface of the battery pack case rather than inside the internal volume. This dimensional relocation allows advanced functionality to be added without consuming the precious internal space needed for electrochemical cells, directly resolving the volume-functionality contradiction
2Measurement precision
If a thermochromic battery tester is used to determine battery capacity, then measurement capability is improved, but manual interaction is required which reduces ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The battery pack incorporates an autonomous indicator circuit with integrated circuit and antenna that automatically determines and communicates battery characteristics (capacity, voltage, temperature) without requiring consumer intervention. The system performs self-measurement and self-reporting, eliminating the need for manual tester operation while maintaining accurate measurement capabilities
3Extent of automation
If an indicator circuit is integrated into the battery pack, then automation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the indicator circuit components (integrated circuit and antenna) directly onto the external surface of the battery pack case, combining multiple functions (power management, communication, indication) into a single integrated assembly. This consolidation achieves automation while managing complexity through functional integration rather than separate components
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
Enables convenient, non-invasive battery condition monitoring and communication of battery characteristics to readers like smartphones, enhancing functionality while maintaining a high battery-to-internal volume ratio, thus optimizing space and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
an antenna... that modulates, and in some instances emits, a wireless communication signal
Implementation Method 2
The indicator circuit includes an integrated circuit and an antenna
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention is directed toward a battery pack. The battery pack includes at least one electrochemical cell; a case; a plate; an indicator circuit; and a battery-to-internal volume ratio. The case includes at least one open end. The plate is placed over the at least one open end. The plate includes a terminal plate, a base plate, or any combination thereof. The indicator circuit includes an integrated circuit and an antenna. The indicator circuit is affixed to the plate. The battery-to-internal volume ratio is greater than about 0.52.