Power Tool Supply Circuit for SOC Balancing and Voltage Boost

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Solution Overview

Problem

Power tools equipped with multiple power supply devices face challenges when the state of charge (SOC) of these devices is not equal, leading to reduced power availability and potentially requiring the tool to be stopped mid-use.

Innovation Solution

An electrical circuit with a coil and switching elements that allows for differential charging and discharging of power supply devices, enabling the equalization of their state of charge and boosting the output voltage beyond the sum of the individual voltages.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If power supply devices are connected in series to provide high power, then the maximum output power increases, but the operational duration is limited by the power supply device with the lowest state of charge

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoutput powerVSAvoidoperational duration
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a control circuit as an intermediary between the power supply devices and the load. This control circuit actively manages charge distribution among power supply devices with different SOC levels, enabling the system to utilize energy from all devices rather than being constrained by the lowest SOC device. The intermediary control mechanism resolves the contradiction by decoupling the series connection requirement for high power from the limitation imposed by unequal charge states.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent dynamically changes the operational parameters of the power supply system by adjusting the charge/discharge rates of individual power supply devices based on their SOC levels. The control circuit modifies current distribution parameters in real-time, allowing devices with higher SOC to supply more energy while devices with lower SOC receive charge or supply less. This parameter adjustment enables the system to maintain high power output while extending operational duration by optimally utilizing energy from all power supply devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Power

If power supply devices with different capacities are used to meet power requirements, then the power output capability increases, but the energy utilization efficiency decreases due to unequal charge states

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower output capabilityVSAvoidenergy utilization efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic energy management system that continuously monitors and adjusts the operational state of each power supply device. The control circuit dynamically reallocates energy flow based on real-time SOC measurements, ensuring that devices with different capacities contribute optimally to the total power output. This dynamic adjustment maximizes energy utilization efficiency by preventing energy waste from devices that would otherwise be underutilized due to capacity mismatches.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The control circuit employs periodic monitoring and adjustment cycles to maintain optimal energy distribution among power supply devices. By continuously measuring SOC levels and periodically recalibrating the charge/discharge rates, the system ensures that energy from all power supply devices is utilized efficiently. This periodic control mechanism addresses the energy utilization inefficiency caused by using power supply devices with different capacities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 solution allows for more efficient utilization of energy stored in power supply devices, extending the operational time of power tools without the need for device replacement or recharging.

Implementation Method 1

Closing the first switching element charges the coil with electrical energy from the first power supply device. Closing the second switching element charges the coil with electrical energy from the second power supply device.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20250141249A1Electrical circuit for controlling power supply device in an electrical device, and electrical device
Publication Date: 2025.05.01 HILTI AG
  • US20250141249A1 patent drawing
  • US20250141249A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An electrical circuit for controlling a power draw from a first power supply device and from a second power supply device in an electrical device, in particular in a power tool. The electrical circuit includes a first power supply device and a second power supply device, as well as a first switching element, a second switching element and a third switching element, a coil and two connection points, wherein the coil is present connected in series with the first power supply device and the second power supply device, and wherein the first switching element is configured to bridge the first power supply device and the coil, and the second switching element is configured to bridge the second power supply device and the coil. In this case, an output voltage U_B of the electrical circuit applied to the connection points is greater than a sum of the first voltage U1 of the first power supply device and the second voltage U2 of the second power supply device.