Dynamic Battery Configuration Switching for Portable Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery-powered devices often face challenges in meeting varying operational demands for motor torque and speed, and existing battery configurations do not allow for seamless switching between series, parallel, and series/parallel configurations without interrupting device use, leading to suboptimal performance and battery life.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that allows for dynamic switching between series, parallel, and series/parallel configurations of battery packs using a selector switch and mechanical latching devices, enabling automatic or manual configuration changes based on device parameters like torque, speed, and temperature to optimize performance and extend battery life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If battery packs are coupled in series configuration, then voltage is increased for higher motor speed, but battery life is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic battery configuration system that allows switching between series, parallel, and series/parallel configurations during operation. A controller monitors device operating conditions (torque, speed, temperature) and automatically reconfigures the battery packs from series to parallel or series/parallel configurations to optimize the balance between motor speed and battery life based on real-time demands.
2Duration of action of moving object
If battery packs are coupled in parallel configuration, then battery life is extended for longer operation, but voltage is reduced limiting motor torque
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically reconfigures battery connections based on operational demands. When high torque is required, the controller switches from parallel to series or series/parallel configurations, providing higher voltage to the motor. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to extend battery life during normal operation while delivering sufficient torque when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical configuration parameters of the battery packs by switching between different connection topologies (series, parallel, series/parallel). This parameter change allows the system to adjust the voltage and current characteristics to match varying motor load requirements, optimizing both battery life and torque delivery.
3Adaptability or versatility
If battery configuration is changed to meet varying operational demands, then performance is optimized, but device operation is interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary monitoring of operating conditions and proactively reconfigures battery connections before performance degradation occurs. The controller continuously monitors torque, speed, and temperature parameters, and switches configurations in advance to maintain optimal performance, avoiding interruptions caused by reactive adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements seamless battery configuration switching that maintains continuous power delivery to the motor. The reconfiguration process is designed to minimize or eliminate interruptions in device operation, ensuring that the motor continues to receive adequate power throughout the transition between series, parallel, and series/parallel configurations.
4Duration of action of moving object
If manufacturer uses series/parallel configuration as compromise, then both voltage and battery life are improved, but adaptability to varying operational demands is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static series/parallel compromise configuration into a dynamic system that can adapt to varying operational demands. The controller monitors real-time operating conditions and switches between series, parallel, and series/parallel configurations, allowing the system to optimize for either voltage (series) or battery life (parallel) based on actual needs rather than being locked into a fixed compromise.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for managing power supplied to a portable electrical device includes an electrical connector configured to engage a complementary electrical connector of the respective battery. The portable battery-powered device also includes a selector switch configured to couple the electrical connectors of the plurality of power receptacles in at least one of a series configuration, a parallel configuration, and a combination of series and parallel configuration. The portable battery-powered device further includes an electrical load device including one or more electrical leads coupled to the selector switch. The selector switch is selectable during operation of the portable battery-powered device to provide power to the electrical device from a plurality of battery packs coupled in the at least one of a series configuration, a parallel configuration, and a combination of series and parallel configuration.