Flyback Transformer Battery Cell Charge Redistribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
The limited range of hybrid and electric vehicles due to battery discharge cycles being cut short by lower capacity battery cells, which results in significant unused charge in higher capacity cells.
Innovation Solution
A method that prolongs battery discharge cycles by supplying charge from higher capacity battery cells to lower capacity cells through a secondary current path during discharge, using a flyback transformer to maintain the lower capacity cells' voltage above the recharge threshold, thereby extending the usable capacity of the battery pack.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If battery discharge cycle is stopped when the lower capacity battery cell reaches the recharge voltage, then the lower capacity battery cell is protected from degradation, but the higher capacity battery cells have significant unusable charge remaining and the vehicle range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The battery pack is segmented into multiple battery cells with different charge capacities, and each cell is monitored and managed individually. The system identifies lower capacity cells and higher capacity cells separately, allowing differential charging strategies to be applied to different segments of the battery pack.
Solution Approach 2:
A flyback transformer is introduced as an intermediary device to transfer charge between battery cells. The transformer enables indirect charging of lower capacity cells from higher capacity cells during the discharge cycle, allowing charge redistribution without direct electrical connection between cells.
2Quantity of substance
If a second current path is added to charge lower capacity battery cells during discharge, then the usable battery capacity is extended, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flyback transformer serves multiple functions: it acts as an intermediary for charge transfer between cells, provides electrical isolation between cells, and enables both direct and indirect charging paths. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The higher capacity battery cells automatically serve to charge the lower capacity battery cells through the flyback transformer during the discharge cycle. The system uses its own internal resources (excess capacity in higher capacity cells) to extend overall battery pack capacity without requiring external charging equipment.
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 method increases battery discharge cycle time, enhances vehicle range, and extends battery cell life by utilizing more of the battery's capacity, ensuring that all cells are balanced and fully charged simultaneously.
Implementation Method 1
the second battery cell may provide charge to the first battery cell by way of a flyback transformer
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for extending the useable capacity of a battery pack are disclosed. In one example, flyback transformers supply charge to lower capacity battery cells to extend battery output.