Parallel Battery Module Charging Sequence Without Equalizing Resistors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing battery systems face challenges in achieving rapid voltage equalization between batteries without increasing the system size, as the need for an equalizing resistor leads to larger systems and longer equalization times.
Innovation Solution
A battery system and control method that utilize a controller to identify batteries with the lowest and second-lowest voltage values, and start charging them sequentially based on voltage differences, eliminating the need for an equalizing resistor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an equalizing resistor is provided between batteries to prevent cross current, then voltage equalization can be performed, but the system size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the equalizing resistor from the system and replaces it with a controller that manages battery connections. The controller identifies batteries with voltage differences and selectively connects them through the charging apparatus, eliminating the need for physical resistors while maintaining voltage equalization capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the passive mechanical/electrical equalizing resistor with an active control system. The controller uses voltage detection and selective switching to achieve voltage equalization through controlled charging sequences, substituting the simple resistor-based passive equalization method.
2Reliability
If an equalizing resistor is used for voltage equalization, then cross current is prevented, but the equalization time is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The controller performs preliminary voltage detection and identification of batteries requiring equalization before the charging process begins. By pre-identifying the charging sequence based on voltage levels, the system can immediately start optimized charging without delay, reducing overall equalization time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control of the charging process, where the controller continuously monitors voltage levels and adjusts the charging sequence in real-time. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt to changing voltage conditions and optimize equalization speed, unlike the static resistor-based method.
3Productivity
If batteries are charged simultaneously without voltage equalization control, then charging speed is fast, but cross current generates between batteries
Solution Approach 1:
The controller continuously detects voltage levels of all batteries and uses this feedback information to determine the optimal charging sequence. Based on real-time voltage feedback, the controller identifies which battery should be charged first and adjusts the charging connection dynamically, preventing cross current while maintaining efficient charging.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the charging parameter by implementing sequential charging based on voltage levels rather than simultaneous charging. The controller modifies the charging process by connecting batteries to the charging apparatus in a specific sequence determined by their voltage levels, eliminating cross current while preserving charging efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A battery system includes: a charging apparatus; a plurality of battery modules to connectable in parallel with the charging apparatus; and a controller, in which each of the plurality of battery modules has a battery, and the controller obtains, when a charging command is received, a voltage value of the battery of each of the plurality of battery modules, identifies a first battery having a lowest voltage value and a second battery having a second lowest voltage value, starts charging of the first battery, and after starting the charging of the first battery, starts charging of the second battery when a difference value between a voltage value of a first battery module and the voltage value of the second battery becomes equal to or less than a first threshold value.