Battery Pack Voltage Adaptation via Series-Parallel Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Legacy host devices with limited voltage ranges cannot fully utilize the capacity of newer rechargeable battery cells with extended voltage ranges, leading to inefficient energy consumption and premature shutdown due to low-voltage thresholds.
Innovation Solution
Implementing switch control logic that selectively switches battery cells between series and parallel configurations based on voltage and charging status, independent of the attached load or charger, using comparator-type switches to maintain optimal voltage levels for efficient power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If newer battery cells with extended voltage ranges are used, then battery capacity is improved, but compatibility with legacy host devices is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The battery pack dynamically reconfigures its cell arrangement between series and parallel configurations based on the voltage requirements of the connected host device. The control circuit detects the device type and automatically switches the topology to provide either higher voltage (series) for legacy devices or lower voltage (parallel) for modern devices, enabling a single battery pack to serve multiple device generations.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the electrical parameters (voltage and current) of the battery pack by reconfiguring the connection topology. By switching between series and parallel arrangements, the battery pack can output different voltage levels (e.g., 11.1V in series vs. 5.55V in parallel) while maintaining the same physical cells, thus adapting to different device requirements.
2Use of energy by moving object
If battery cells are operated at low voltage ranges, then energy efficiency is improved, but device operation duration is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the voltage output based on device requirements, allowing legacy devices to operate at their optimal voltage range (5.6-8.4V) rather than forcing them to operate at lower voltages. This dynamic adaptation ensures that devices operate in their most efficient range while fully utilizing the battery capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
By preventing premature shutdown due to low-voltage thresholds through proper voltage matching, the invention ensures continuous useful action throughout the full battery capacity range. Devices can discharge the battery completely without early termination, maximizing both efficiency and operational duration.
3Loss of energy
If battery load current is reduced at low state of charge, then voltage losses are minimized, but power delivery capability is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the voltage parameter through topology switching, which indirectly optimizes current levels. By providing higher voltage in series configuration, the system can deliver the same power with lower current, reducing I²R losses in the circuit while maintaining adequate power delivery capability.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for adapting a voltage of a battery pack is provided through a switch control logic coupled to the cells of the pack. The switch control logic determines the output voltage generated by the cells and an operating state of the battery pack. The switch control logic is configured to selectively switch the plurality of cells between a series cell configuration and a parallel cell configuration based upon the determined current output voltage and the operating state of the battery pack.