Matrix Charger Apparatus for Series Battery Equalization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional charger apparatuses for serially connected battery modules require additional monitor/equalization circuits to manage voltage differences, increasing costs due to high voltage supply needs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A charger apparatus and method utilizing multiple chargers grouped into distinct charger groups, with each charger independently managing charging and discharging operations through a configuration matrix, eliminating the need for additional monitor/equalization circuits by simultaneously charging and equalizing battery modules in series.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional charger apparatus uses one charger to charge a battery module series with additional monitor/equalization circuits, then the battery modules can be charged, but the cost increases due to high voltage supply needs and additional circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The battery module series is divided into multiple battery modules, and multiple chargers are used to charge different battery modules independently. Each charger is connected to specific battery modules through a switching network, allowing parallel charging operations. This segmentation eliminates the need for a single high-voltage charger and complex monitor/equalization circuits, as each charger operates at lower voltage independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The chargers in the patent serve dual functions: they both charge the battery modules and perform equalization simultaneously. By connecting multiple chargers in parallel to different battery modules, the system achieves both charging and voltage equalization without requiring separate monitor/equalization circuits, thus simplifying the overall device structure.
2Productivity
If a conventional charger apparatus uses high charge voltage to charge battery module series, then charging can be achieved, but the cost becomes rather high
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using one high-voltage charger to charge the entire battery module series, the system segments the charging task across multiple lower-voltage chargers. Each charger handles a portion of the battery modules, operating at reduced voltage levels that are more cost-effective and easier to manufacture, while maintaining overall charging efficiency through parallel operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple chargers are merged into a single charging system that operates in parallel. This combination allows the system to achieve high productivity equivalent to a single high-voltage charger while using multiple lower-voltage, lower-cost charger units, thereby reducing manufacturing costs without sacrificing charging efficiency.
3Reliability
If additional monitor/equalization circuits are installed in each battery module, then equalization can be achieved, but the cost of the charger apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The equalization function is extracted from individual battery module circuits and implemented externally through the multiple chargers. Instead of installing monitor/equalization circuits within each battery module, the system uses dedicated charger units that connect to battery modules through a switching network, performing equalization as a separate function. This extraction eliminates the need for complex internal circuits in each module while maintaining effective voltage equalization.
Solution Approach 2:
The multiple chargers act as intermediary devices between the power source and the battery modules. These chargers mediate the charging and equalization processes by selectively connecting to different battery modules through a switching network, managing voltage distribution and equalization without requiring direct monitor/equalization circuits in each battery module, thus reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A charger apparatus and a charging method are provided for charging/discharging battery modules connected in series. The chargers of the charger apparatus are grouped at least into a first charger group and a second charger group. The first terminal of the first charger of the first charger group is coupled to the positive terminal of the i-th battery module of the battery modules, and the second terminal of the first charger is coupled to a first node between the j-th battery module and the k-th battery module of the battery modules, wherein j ranges between i and k. The first terminal of the second charger of the second charger group is coupled to a second node between the i-th battery module and the j-th battery module, and the second terminal of the second charger is coupled to the negative terminal of the k-th battery module.