Switching Time Control Multiplexer for Battery Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy storage systems often require oversized DC power sources to meet maximum current demands, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs, particularly in applications where only smaller power sources are needed.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a switching time control multiplexer to alternately charge multiple energy storage devices with a total charging current less than that required in prior art systems, optimizing charging time, efficiency, and extending battery life by incorporating rest periods and feedback control mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a DC power source is selected to provide maximum current demands for simultaneous charging of multiple batteries, then the batteries can be charged at full capacity, but the power source becomes oversized and increases system cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by alternately switching charging current between multiple batteries in sequence rather than charging them simultaneously. The multiplexer controller cycles through each battery, applying full charging current to one battery at a time while others remain idle or discharge, thereby achieving full charging capacity without requiring an oversized power source that would be needed for parallel charging.
2Speed
If high charging current is applied continuously to batteries, then charging speed is maximized, but heating and gassing increase reducing battery lifetime
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies periodic action by interrupting continuous high charging current with rest periods. The multiplexer controller cycles through batteries, providing high charging current for predetermined time intervals then switching to the next battery, allowing the previously charged battery to rest and cool down. This periodic charging pattern maintains high charging speed while preventing excessive heating and gassing that would reduce battery lifetime.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback control through voltage detection circuits and current detection circuits that monitor battery status in real-time. The multiplexer controller receives feedback signals from these detection circuits and adjusts charging current accordingly, reducing or interrupting current when voltage or current thresholds are exceeded, thereby preventing overheating and gassing while maintaining efficient charging.
3Productivity
If multiple batteries are charged in parallel with high current, then total charging capacity is maximized, but the power source must be oversized to handle the total current demand
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by implementing periodic sequential charging through a multiplexer controller that switches charging current between multiple batteries in time-division multiplexing fashion. Each battery receives full charging current during its designated time slot, achieving maximum total charging capacity over a charging cycle, while the power source only needs to provide the current for one battery at a time, eliminating the need for an oversized power source.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for energizing an energy storage device includes an electric power source, an energy system in communication with the electric power source, and a switching time control multiplexer. The energy storage system includes at least two parallel energy storage devices. The switching time control multiplexer is configured to supply total charging current from the electric power source to the energy storage system such that each storage device is charged in an alternating manner with the total charging current being less than a total charging current required for parallel charging.