Dual-Mode Battery Pack Switching for Multi-Voltage Tool Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery packs require separate voltage configurations for low-voltage and high-voltage tools, necessitating multiple battery packs and limiting versatility.
Innovation Solution
A dual-mode battery pack that can selectively connect battery cells in series or parallel configurations, allowing it to output different voltage levels based on the attached tool, using mechanical or solid-state switching mechanisms to adapt voltage according to tool requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate battery packs are used for different voltage levels, then each tool can operate at its required voltage, but the user must purchase and manage multiple battery packs
Solution Approach 1:
The battery pack is designed with two sets of battery cells (first set and second set) that can be selectively connected in series or parallel configurations. This allows a single battery pack to provide multiple voltage levels (e.g., 18V in parallel configuration and 36V in series configuration), enabling it to power both low-voltage and high-voltage tools without requiring separate battery packs for each voltage level.
2Power
If more battery cells are connected in series to increase voltage, then higher voltage tools can be powered, but the amp-hour capacity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The battery pack incorporates switching mechanisms (such as switches, relays, or solid-state switches) that allow dynamic reconfiguration of the battery cell connections. Users can switch between parallel configuration (higher amp-hours, lower voltage) and series configuration (lower amp-hours, higher voltage) depending on the power requirements of the connected tool, optimizing both voltage output and capacity utilization.
3Ease of operation
If a fixed voltage battery pack is used, then the design is simpler, but it cannot adapt to tools requiring different voltage levels
Solution Approach 1:
The battery pack is divided into two separate sets of battery cells (first set and second set), each capable of being independently connected to the output terminals. This segmentation allows the battery pack to selectively engage either the first set or the second set based on the voltage requirements of the connected tool, providing voltage flexibility while maintaining relatively simple circuit architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for selectively connecting a plurality of battery cells in a dual-mode battery pack in series and parallel configurations and/or for individual cell monitoring. A dual-mode battery pack may generally include a housing; a first set of battery cells connected in series; and a second set of battery cells connected in series. The battery pack may also include series connection contacts selectively connectable to the first set of battery cells and to the second set of battery cells and, when engaged, connecting the first set of battery cells and the second set of battery cells in a series configuration; and parallel connection contacts selectively connectable to the first set of battery cells and the second set of battery cells and, when engaged, connecting the first set of battery cells and the second set of battery cells in a parallel configuration.