Parallel Battery Connection Timing Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Connecting batteries in parallel with a load while ensuring safe operation, as uncontrolled current flow can damage batteries and associated components if their state of charge is not matched.
Innovation Solution
A method involving determining the initial state of charge of two batteries, measuring current flow, and connecting them in parallel only when their state of charge is matched within a predetermined percentage, using a computer and switch system to manage the connection process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If two batteries with different states of charge are connected in parallel, then power availability is improved, but battery and circuitry damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by measuring and comparing the state of charge of both batteries before connecting them in parallel. The control unit determines initial states of charge, calculates when each battery will reach a matching state based on current draw, and only connects batteries when their states of charge are equal, thereby preventing damage while enabling power availability.
2Duration of action of moving object
If batteries are connected in parallel without state of charge matching, then operational continuity is improved, but harmful current flow increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback by continuously monitoring the state of charge of both batteries, calculating their respective rates of discharge based on measured current draw, and determining the precise moment when their states of charge will be equal. This feedback mechanism ensures batteries are connected only when safe, preventing uncontrolled current flow while maintaining operational continuity.
3Reliability
If state of charge matching is performed before connection, then battery safety is improved, but connection time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary calculations of when each battery will reach matching state of charge based on their current discharge rates. By calculating this in advance rather than waiting for actual state matching, the system minimizes connection preparation time while ensuring battery safety through predetermined connection timing.
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
Ensures safe and efficient operation of battery-powered vehicles by preventing damage to batteries and circuitry, allowing for seamless shift changes and minimizing turn-around time between shifts.
Implementation Method 1
current will flow from the battery having a higher state of charge into the battery having a lower state of charge in a violent and uncontrolled way
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of operating an electric vehicle including the steps of: (1) providing the electric vehicle (2) providing an electric load device on the electric vehicle (3) providing a first battery on the electric vehicle with a first state of charge (4) providing a second battery on the electric vehicle with a second state of charge lower than the first state of charge (5) determining an initial state of charge of the first battery (6) determining an initial state of charge of the second battery (7) connecting the first battery to the electric load device (8) measuring the current flow from the first battery (9) calculating an instantaneous state of charge of the first battery (10) comparing the instantaneous state of charge of the first battery with the initial state of charge of the second battery, and (11) when the instantaneous state of charge of the first battery reaches a predetermined percentage of the initial state of charge of the second battery, connecting the second battery in parallel with the first battery.