Blended Cathode Voltage Estimation via Segmented Circuit Modeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing secondary batteries face challenges in accurately estimating voltage due to distinct voltage behaviors of cathode materials, which limits the blending of cathode materials and requires complex adjustment of blending ratios.
Innovation Solution
A voltage estimating apparatus and method for secondary batteries using a blended cathode material, comprising at least two cathode materials with different operating voltage ranges, where the concentration of operating ions reacting with each material varies according to voltage, allowing for reliable estimation through a circuit model and sensor measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If blended cathode materials with different operating voltage ranges are used, then battery performance and energy capacity are improved, but voltage estimation accuracy deteriorates due to distinct voltage behaviors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the voltage estimation problem into separate segments by creating individual circuit models for each cathode material type in the blend. Each material segment (e.g., LiCoO2, LiMn2O4, LiFePO4) is modeled with its own voltage characteristics and operating ion concentration relationships, allowing accurate estimation of the overall blended cathode voltage by combining the segmented models according to their blending ratios.
2Measurement precision
If complex adjustment of blending ratios is performed to achieve accurate voltage estimation, then voltage estimation accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the estimation approach from adjusting blending ratios to changing the parameters within the circuit model. By modifying the circuit model to include voltage characteristics and operating ion concentration relationships for different cathode materials, the system achieves accurate voltage estimation without complex physical adjustments to the blending ratios, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining precision.
3Ease of operation
If single cathode material is used, then voltage behavior is simple and easy to estimate, but battery energy capacity and performance are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining multiple cathode materials (such as LiCoO2, LiMn2O4, LiFePO4) into a blended cathode structure. Each material contributes its unique voltage characteristics and energy capacity, and the circuit model integrates these composite materials' properties to achieve both high energy capacity and accurate voltage estimation, overcoming the limitations of single-material cathodes.
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 accurate voltage estimation and flexible blending of cathode materials, optimizing battery performance for various applications by interpreting distinct voltage behaviors and adjusting blending ratios dynamically.
Implementation Method 1
A battery generates electric energy by oxidation and reduction reactions
Implementation Method 2
A battery generates electric energy by oxidation and reduction reactions
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an apparatus for estimating a voltage of a secondary battery which includes a cathode comprising a first cathode material and a second cathode material with different operating voltage ranges, an anode comprising an anode material and a separator for separating the cathode from the anode. The apparatus comprises a control unit configured to estimate a voltage of a secondary battery based on a circuit model including a first cathode material circuit, a second cathode material circuit and an anode material circuit, each circuit modeled to change its voltage according to State Of Charge (SOC) of the electrode material corresponding the circuit and a current flowing through the circuit.