Circuit-Modeled Pulse Charging for Lower Battery Degradation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional battery charging methods are inefficient, time-consuming, and degrade battery performance due to the use of constant current or voltage signals, leading to inefficiencies, heat generation, and reduced battery life.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for generating a shaped charge waveform using a circuit model to control the charging process, which includes a processor, inductive elements, and switches to produce a controllably shaped charge signal, optimizing the charging process by modeling the circuit components and adjusting the signal based on a model rather than feedback measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional constant current or voltage charging methods are used, then the charging process is simple to implement, but the charging efficiency is low and battery degradation occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-modeling the circuit components (inductors, switches, batteries) and their interactions before actual charging occurs. The system uses circuit modeling to predict the behavior of charging circuits and pre-determine optimal pulse sequences, eliminating the need for complex real-time feedback measurements during charging. This allows efficient charging while keeping the actual hardware relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by creating virtual models (circuit models) that replicate the behavior of physical charging circuits. Instead of directly measuring and controlling physical circuit parameters in real-time, the system uses computational models to simulate and predict circuit behavior, then applies pre-determined control signals. This reduces the need for complex measurement and feedback hardware while maintaining high charging efficiency.
2Measurement precision
If feedback measurements are implemented to optimize charging, then charging precision improves, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical feedback measurements with virtual model predictions. The circuit models compute expected voltage, current, and power values without requiring actual sensors or measurement circuits. This achieves precise charging control while eliminating complex measurement hardware and reducing system cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes physical measurement systems with computational modeling. Instead of using voltage sensors, current sensors, and feedback control circuits, the system uses software-based circuit models to predict and determine optimal charging parameters. This replaces complex mechanical/electrical measurement systems with simpler computational methods.
3Productivity
If high charge rates are applied to reduce charging time, then productivity increases, but battery degradation and heat generation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using pulsed charging sequences instead of continuous high-current charging. The circuit models determine optimal pulse widths, frequencies, and duty cycles that deliver high average power for fast charging while allowing brief rest periods that reduce thermal accumulation and electrochemical stress on the battery. This enables high charging speeds without proportionally increasing degradation or heat generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter changes by dynamically adjusting charging parameters (current, voltage, pulse width, frequency) based on circuit model predictions. The system optimizes the combination of these parameters to achieve high charging power while maintaining battery temperature and stress within safe limits. The circuit models allow real-time parameter optimization without complex sensor feedback.
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
This approach reduces battery degradation, increases charging efficiency, and extends battery life by optimizing charge rates and energy usage, while minimizing the need for costly and complex feedback mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
a first inductive element, which may be an inductor, inductors coupled in series or parallel or combinations thereof, a transformer or inductive portion of a transformer
Data Source
AI summary
A system for charging a battery comprising a first switch operably coupled with a power supply. An inductive element, which may be a part of filter, is in operable communication with the switch. The system includes a processor in communication with the switch and in communication with a model of the inductive element. The processor is configured to execute instructions to control the switch to generate a sequence of pulses at the first inductive element to produce a shaped charge waveform responsive to running the model to generate the shaped charge waveform.