Switchable Battery Cell Layout for XR Headset Power Loss Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Extended-reality wearable devices require substantial power, leading to inefficient battery configurations that detract from user immersion due to limited voltage headroom and increased power losses, especially at low states of charge.
Innovation Solution
A switchable battery cell configuration that alternates between parallel and series configurations to maintain consistent power output and efficiency by switching battery cells based on state of charge, temperature, and other factors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If battery cells are configured in parallel to provide high current, then power delivery capability is improved, but voltage headroom is limited and power losses increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic battery configuration system that automatically switches between parallel and series cell configurations based on real-time operating conditions. Control circuitry monitors state of charge, temperature, and power demands, then actuates switches to reconfigure the battery cells accordingly. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize the balance between power delivery capability and power losses by using parallel configuration when high current is needed and series configuration when voltage headroom and efficiency are prioritized.
2Power
If battery cells are configured in series to increase voltage, then voltage headroom is improved, but power delivery capability at low states of charge deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between series and parallel configurations based on state of charge levels. When the battery is in a low state of charge, the control circuitry switches to parallel configuration to maintain adequate voltage headroom and power delivery capability, thereby extending operational duration. When state of charge is high, the system can operate in series configuration to maximize voltage output. This dynamic reconfiguration resolves the contradiction by adapting the battery topology to current operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical parameters of the battery system by reconfiguring cell connections. By switching between series and parallel arrangements, the system alters voltage, current, and power characteristics to match operational requirements. This parameter change allows the battery to maintain optimal performance across different state of charge levels, addressing the limitation of fixed series configurations at low charge states.
3Power
If dispersed battery configurations are used to meet high power demands, then power delivery is improved, but device complexity and power inefficiency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes a single battery assembly multi-functional by enabling it to operate in multiple configurations (series and parallel) through switchable connections. This universal design allows the same physical battery cells to serve different power delivery needs without requiring separate battery packs for different operating modes. The control circuitry manages the switching between configurations, providing a unified solution that addresses high power demands while avoiding the complexity of multiple dispersed battery systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of switching a battery cell configuration for a head-worn extended-reality headset is described. The method includes, in accordance with a determination that a battery of the head-worn extended-reality headset is in a first state, operating at least two cells of the battery in series using a first control switch to produce a first voltage and, in accordance with a determination that the battery of the head-worn extended-reality headset is in a second state, operating the at least two cells of the battery in parallel using a second control switch to produce a second voltage, wherein the first and second voltages are within an operating voltage of the electrical components of the head-worn extended-reality headset. Switching the configuration in which the battery cells operate increases voltage headroom and decreases power losses by increasing the voltage of the battery cells and decreasing the current drawn by the battery cells.