Modular Battery Discharger with Parallel Power Modules
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery discharge devices are not designed to handle high-voltage and high-energy density battery packs efficiently, and those capable of higher voltages are expensive and large, making them impractical for safe maintenance and testing.
Innovation Solution
A battery discharge device comprising multiple power discharge modules connected in parallel, each with a resistor and thermistor in series, allowing for efficient discharging of high-voltage battery packs at a substantially constant power rate, with optional removable modules for flexibility and no external power source required.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing battery discharge devices are used for high-voltage battery packs, then they can handle the discharge task, but they are expensive and very large
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge device is divided into multiple independent power discharge modules that can be connected in parallel. Each module handles a portion of the total discharge current, allowing the system to achieve high-voltage discharge capability through modular assembly rather than requiring a single large device. This segmentation enables scalable configuration based on specific battery pack requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The power discharge modules are designed with universal interfaces and standardized configurations that can be applied across different battery pack types and voltage levels. By using identical modular units with parallel connection capabilities, the system achieves multi-functionality and adaptability without requiring specialized large-scale equipment for each application.
2Reliability
If existing battery discharge devices are used for high-voltage battery packs, then they can handle the discharge task, but they are very expensive
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the discharge device into standardized power modules, the system benefits from economies of scale in manufacturing. Each module can be produced independently using the same components and assembly processes, reducing per-unit costs compared to custom-built high-voltage equipment. The modular approach also allows for easier maintenance and replacement, further reducing operational costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves different discharge power levels by changing the number of parallel-connected modules rather than manufacturing different specialized devices for each power level. This parameter-based scaling allows flexible adaptation to various battery pack requirements while maintaining consistent manufacturing costs per module.
3Productivity
If power discharge modules are connected in parallel, then the device can discharge high-voltage battery packs efficiently, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The parallel connection architecture segments the discharge system into independent, identical modules. This segmentation simplifies the overall system design because each module operates autonomously with the same internal structure, reducing the complexity of control and monitoring compared to a monolithic design. The standardized interfaces between modules further reduce connection complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
By using identical homogeneous power discharge modules throughout the system, the patent eliminates the need for complex differential control strategies. Each module behaves predictably and identically, simplifying the overall system management and reducing operational complexity despite the increased number of components.
4Volume of moving object
If the discharge device is made compact and transportable, then it is suitable for maintenance and testing applications, but it may not handle high-voltage battery packs
Solution Approach 1:
The segmentation into modular power units allows the system to achieve high discharge power through parallel connection of multiple compact modules. Each individual module remains small and portable, but when connected in parallel, they collectively deliver the high power necessary for high-voltage battery pack discharge. This modular approach resolves the contradiction between compactness and power capability.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple compact power discharge modules are merged through parallel connection to achieve the cumulative discharge power capability required for high-voltage battery packs. The merging of multiple small units creates a system that matches or exceeds the power output of traditional single-unit devices while maintaining the portability advantage of the individual modules.
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
The device safely and efficiently discharges high-voltage battery packs, maintaining battery health by controlling the discharge rate, reducing costs, and being compact and transportable, suitable for various applications including automotive maintenance and testing.
Implementation Method 1
each one of the power discharge modules including at least one resistor in series with at least one thermistor
Implementation Method 2
each one of the power discharge modules including at least one resistor in series with at least one thermistor
Data Source
AI summary
A battery discharge device using a plurality of power modules for varying a discharge capacity of the device, and its method of use. The device can be used to discharge high-voltage, high-energy density battery packs such as might be used in hybrid or electric vehicles. The device can discharge the energy of the battery pack at a relatively constant power rate.