Multi-Function Relay Driver Circuit for Compact Battery Modules

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing battery modules require multiple circuits for relay driver and DCDC converter functions, leading to increased board space consumption and material costs due to redundant components.

Innovation Solution

A combined relay driver and micro DCDC converter that shares output schemes, allowing for variable voltage settings to perform both functions without the need for separate circuits, thereby re-purposing unused system components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If separate relay driver and DCDC converter circuits are used, then each function can be independently controlled, but board space consumption and bill of materials cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional independenceVSAvoidboard space

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the relay driver and DCDC converter into a single integrated circuit that can perform both functions. The circuit includes a controller that can operate in relay driver mode or DCDC converter mode, sharing common components such as the power switch, inductor, and control logic, thereby reducing board space while maintaining functional versatility

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated circuit is designed with multi-functionality, where a single circuit can operate as either a relay driver or a DCDC converter based on control signals. The circuit includes configurable parameters and control logic that enable it to adapt to different operational modes, eliminating the need for separate dedicated circuits for each function

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If separate relay driver and DCDC converter circuits are used, then each function can be independently controlled, but bill of materials cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional independenceVSAvoidmaterial cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the relay driver and DCDC converter into a single integrated circuit that can perform both functions. The circuit includes a controller that can operate in relay driver mode or DCDC converter mode, sharing common components such as the power switch, inductor, and control logic, thereby reducing board space while maintaining functional versatility

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The integrated circuit is designed with multi-functionality, where a single circuit can operate as either a relay driver or a DCDC converter based on control signals. The circuit includes configurable parameters and control logic that enable it to adapt to different operational modes, eliminating the need for separate dedicated circuits for each function

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 minimizes board space and material costs by integrating functions, ensuring efficient operation of both relay driver and DCDC converter without redundant circuits.

Implementation Method 1

The DCDC converter receives the second current and converts the second current to a third current for the external load

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20230318336A1Battery module including a multi-function relay driver

Publication Date: 2023.10.05 CPS TECHNOLOGY HOLDINGS LLC

AI summary

A battery module is disclosed. The battery module, in one implementation, comprises a housing having a terminal, an electrochemical cell in the housing, a relay controlling a current available from the electrochemical cell to the terminal, and a multi-function relay driver electrically coupled to the electrochemical cell, the relay, and an external load. The relay includes a relay coil to control a state of the relay. The multi-function relay driver comprises a drive to provide a first current to the relay coil to control the state of the relay. The multi-function relay driver further provides a second current. The multi-function relay driver further comprises a direct-current-to-direct-current (DCDC) converter coupled to the drive. The DCDC converter receives the second current and converts the second current to a third current for the external load. Also disclosed are method of operating the battery module.