Battery Pack Switching Circuit Diagnosis via Capacitor Voltage Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery apparatuses with multiple parallel battery packs connected through a common switching circuit cannot diagnose faults in individual switching circuits, such as stuck contacts, due to shared external link terminals.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a diagnosis circuit with capacitors in each battery pack that charges when the corresponding switches are closed, allowing a processor to compare voltages between the battery pack and capacitor to determine the status of the switching circuit, enabling individual diagnosis of each switching circuit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple battery packs are connected in parallel through common link terminals to increase output and capacity, then the power supply capability is improved, but the ability to diagnose faults in individual switching circuits is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the battery system into independent diagnostic units by assigning a separate diagnosis circuit (including capacitor and switch) to each battery pack. This segmentation allows individual fault detection in each switching circuit while maintaining the parallel connection for increased power output, thus resolving the contradiction between system power and diagnostic capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a switching circuit is used for each battery pack to enable individual connection control, then the connection control flexibility is improved, but the complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the switching function and diagnostic function into an integrated system where each battery pack's switching circuit is paired with a corresponding diagnosis circuit. This merging approach maintains connection control flexibility while managing system complexity through functional integration rather than separate independent systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The diagnosis circuit serves multiple functions: it can detect stuck faults in switches, verify switching circuit integrity, and provide diagnostic information for maintenance. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby controlling system complexity while maintaining versatility.
3Measurement precision
If diagnosis circuits with capacitors are added to each battery pack to enable fault detection, then the fault detection capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies diagnosis circuits with specific local characteristics to each battery pack based on its individual switching circuit requirements. Each diagnosis circuit is tailored to detect faults in its corresponding switching circuit, providing localized fault detection capability without requiring a complex centralized diagnostic system.
Solution Approach 2:
The diagnosis circuit uses simple, inexpensive components such as capacitors and switches that can be easily replaced if needed. This approach keeps the added complexity minimal by using basic electronic components rather than complex diagnostic equipment, making the system easier to manufacture and maintain.
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 the diagnosis of switching circuits connected to each battery pack individually, even when they share common link terminals, improving fault detection and maintenance in battery systems.
Implementation Method 1
The first diagnosis circuit may include a first capacitor configured to charge a voltage of the first battery pack when the first switch and the second switch are closed
Data Source
AI summary
In a battery apparatus, a first switch is connected between a first terminal of a first battery pack and a first link terminal, a second switch is connected between a second terminal of the first battery pack and a second link terminal, a third switch is connected between a first terminal of a second battery pack and the first link terminal, and a fourth switch connected between a second terminal of the second battery pack and the second link terminal. A first diagnosis circuit includes a first capacitor for charging a voltage of the first battery pack when the first switch and the second switch are closed, and a second diagnosis circuit includes a second capacitor for charging a voltage of the second battery pack when the third switch and the fourth switch are closed.