Dynamic Battery Charging via Data-Driven Thresholds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Batteries used in devices like drones or power tools rapidly discharge and heat up during use, leading to extended downtime and potential safety issues when charging, with rapid charging methods risking damage or safety problems.
Innovation Solution
A battery charging system that includes a charging connector, data connector, and charger controller, which reads battery data to set a completion threshold and charge the battery efficiently, while also incorporating a cooling mechanism to manage temperature and prevent overheating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If batteries are charged faster to reduce downtime, then productivity is improved, but battery damage and safety problems occur
Solution Approach 1:
The charging system dynamically adjusts charging parameters (current, voltage, temperature thresholds) based on real-time battery state monitoring. The charger controller continuously reads battery data through the data connector and modifies charging behavior accordingly, transitioning from static fixed-rate charging to dynamic adaptive charging that responds to battery conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control by reading battery data (temperature, charge level, voltage) through the data connector during charging and using this information to adjust charging parameters. The charger controller receives continuous feedback from the battery and modifies charging current and temperature management strategies to prevent damage while maintaining efficient charging.
2Loss of time
If batteries are charged faster, then loss of time is reduced, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to battery damage
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by establishing safe operating thresholds and parameters before charging begins. The charger controller pre-configures temperature limits, voltage thresholds, and current constraints based on battery specifications read through the data connector, ensuring charging proceeds within safe boundaries from the start rather than reacting to problems after they occur.
Solution Approach 2:
Continuous feedback monitoring during charging allows the system to detect approaching dangerous conditions and adjust parameters proactively. The data connector enables real-time reading of battery state, allowing the charger controller to modify charging rates before damage occurs, maintaining precision while reducing overall charging time.
3Reliability
If cooling mechanisms are added to manage temperature, then battery safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The data connector and charger controller serve multiple functions: they read battery identification data, monitor charging state, track temperature, and control charging parameters. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, managing complexity while achieving comprehensive temperature and charge management.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery itself provides temperature and state information through the data connector, enabling self-monitoring. The charger controller uses this self-provided information to automatically adjust charging parameters without requiring external monitoring equipment, reducing system complexity while maintaining safety.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses, systems, and methods are presented for battery charging. A charging connector may connect to power terminals of a battery. A data connector may connect to a battery. A charger controller may read battery data from a battery via a data connector, set a completion threshold based on the battery data, and charge the battery via a charging connector until the completion threshold is satisfied.