Cell Module Equalization via Selective Converter Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
In battery management systems, unbalanced voltage among multiple battery modules reduces available capacity and power, accelerates aging, and increases system complexity and cost, necessitating effective equalization and precharging methods.
Innovation Solution
A device and method that utilize a converter unit and switching unit to selectively form precharge and equalizing circuits by controlling the conduction state of the switching unit, allowing for energy transfer between cell modules to balance voltages and perform precharging operations, thereby reducing system volume and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate systems are used for measuring, monitoring, diagnosing, and balancing battery modules, then comprehensive battery management functionality is achieved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The converter unit is designed to perform multiple functions including precharging, equalizing, measuring, monitoring, and diagnosing battery modules through a single integrated system. The control unit manages these diverse operations by selectively connecting the converter unit to different cell modules based on operational requirements, eliminating the need for separate dedicated systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines previously separate battery management functions into a unified system where a single converter unit and control unit handle precharging, equalizing, measurement, monitoring, and diagnosis. This consolidation reduces the number of components and simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining comprehensive battery management capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate systems are used for measuring, monitoring, diagnosing, and balancing battery modules, then comprehensive battery management functionality is achieved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The converter unit serves as a multi-functional component that performs precharging, equalizing, measuring, monitoring, and diagnosing operations. By designing this single unit to handle multiple tasks, the patent reduces the total component count and associated costs while maintaining comprehensive battery management functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple separate systems into a single integrated battery management system, reducing component proliferation and manufacturing complexity. This consolidation lowers system cost by eliminating redundant components and simplifying assembly processes.
3Device complexity
If battery modules with unbalanced voltages are used together, then system configuration is simplified, but available capacity and power are reduced and aging is accelerated
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit performs preliminary diagnosis of voltage balance across cell modules before operation. When unbalance is detected, the system proactively executes equalizing operations to correct the imbalance before it can cause capacity reduction or accelerated aging, thereby preventing reliability issues before they occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors voltage levels across battery modules and uses this feedback to determine when equalizing operations are needed. The control unit adjusts operations based on real-time voltage balance status, enabling dynamic maintenance of optimal battery performance and longevity.
Data Source
AI summary
A device and a method for equalizing and precharging a cell module, which may form a circuit for performing a corresponding operation by a converter unit by selectively connecting the converter unit and one or more cell modules by controlling a conduction state of a switching unit based on an operation which the converter intends to perform.