Charge Level Measurement Using Uncertainty Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for estimating battery charge levels in devices, such as medical devices, are prone to uncertainty due to inherent drift in coulomb counters and voltage measurement inaccuracies, leading to less accurate charge level estimates over time.
Innovation Solution
A processor adjusts charge level estimates by comparing uncertainty values from coulomb counter measurements with those from voltage measurements, incorporating additional techniques like pressure, temperature, and impedance measurements to improve accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If coulomb counter measurements are used to estimate charge level, then charge level estimation is provided, but uncertainty increases over time due to inherent drift
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors multiple charge level estimates from different techniques (coulomb counter, voltage measurement, pressure, temperature, impedance) and uses feedback loops to compare and adjust these estimates. The processor dynamically adjusts the coulomb counter estimate based on voltage measurements and other parameters, creating a self-correcting system that compensates for drift over time and maintains measurement reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple measurement techniques (coulomb counter, voltage measurement, pressure sensing, temperature sensing, impedance measurement) into a composite estimation system. By integrating these different measurement approaches, the system creates a more reliable charge level estimate that compensates for the weaknesses of individual methods, particularly the drift issue with coulomb counters.
2Measurement precision
If voltage measurements are used to estimate charge level, then charge level estimation is provided, but inaccuracies occur due to voltage measurement errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges voltage measurement with coulomb counter measurements and other sensing techniques (pressure, temperature, impedance) to create a composite charge level estimate. The processor combines these multiple measurement sources, using each to compensate for the inaccuracies of the others, thereby improving overall measurement reliability and reducing the impact of voltage measurement errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms where voltage measurements are continuously compared against coulomb counter estimates and other parameters. The processor adjusts the charge level estimate based on this feedback, correcting voltage measurement inaccuracies by referencing other measurement techniques and maintaining reliable charge level indication.
3Measurement precision
If multiple measurement techniques are combined to improve accuracy, then charge level estimation accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements multi-functionality by using a single processor to handle multiple measurement techniques (coulomb counter, voltage measurement, pressure sensing, temperature sensing, impedance measurement) and to perform both monitoring and adjustment functions. This universal approach allows the system to achieve high measurement accuracy through multiple techniques while avoiding the complexity of separate dedicated circuits for each measurement type.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the device's existing operational parameters (current draw, voltage, temperature, pressure) for charge level estimation without requiring additional dedicated measurement hardware. By leveraging already-present system parameters and making them serve dual purposes (operation control and charge estimation), the system improves accuracy while minimizing added complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure describes techniques for estimating an amount of charge on a power source. A processor may determine an uncertainty value associated with a first charge level of a power source and an uncertainty value associated with a second charge level of the power source. Based on the uncertainties, the processor may adjust the first charge level to generate an adjusted charge level. The processor may further adjust the adjusted charge level based on the behavior of the power source.