WO2005020348A2 - Systeme de batteries multiples, systeme de gestion de batteries multiples, systeme de fixation de batteries auxiliaires, et systeme de batteries multiples commande par reseau - Google Patents

Systeme de batteries multiples, systeme de gestion de batteries multiples, systeme de fixation de batteries auxiliaires, et systeme de batteries multiples commande par reseau Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2005020348A2
WO2005020348A2 PCT/US2004/025842 US2004025842W WO2005020348A2 WO 2005020348 A2 WO2005020348 A2 WO 2005020348A2 US 2004025842 W US2004025842 W US 2004025842W WO 2005020348 A2 WO2005020348 A2 WO 2005020348A2
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
battery
auxiliary
main
multiple battery
switching device
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2004/025842
Other languages
English (en)
Other versions
WO2005020348A3 (fr
Inventor
David Elder
Frank Bruno
Original Assignee
Reserve Power Cell, Llc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US10/604,703 external-priority patent/US7339347B2/en
Application filed by Reserve Power Cell, Llc filed Critical Reserve Power Cell, Llc
Priority to MXPA06001615A priority Critical patent/MXPA06001615A/es
Priority to JP2006523299A priority patent/JP2007513459A/ja
Priority to CA002535504A priority patent/CA2535504A1/fr
Priority to EP04780646A priority patent/EP1671380A2/fr
Priority to AU2004302507A priority patent/AU2004302507A1/en
Priority to BRPI0412958-0A priority patent/BRPI0412958A/pt
Publication of WO2005020348A2 publication Critical patent/WO2005020348A2/fr
Publication of WO2005020348A3 publication Critical patent/WO2005020348A3/fr

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M10/00—Secondary cells; Manufacture thereof
    • H01M10/42—Methods or arrangements for servicing or maintenance of secondary cells or secondary half-cells
    • H01M10/48—Accumulators combined with arrangements for measuring, testing or indicating the condition of cells, e.g. the level or density of the electrolyte
    • H01M10/482—Accumulators combined with arrangements for measuring, testing or indicating the condition of cells, e.g. the level or density of the electrolyte for several batteries or cells simultaneously or sequentially
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02J—CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
    • H02J7/00—Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02J—CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
    • H02J7/00—Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
    • H02J7/0013—Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries acting upon several batteries simultaneously or sequentially
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60L—PROPULSION OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; SUPPLYING ELECTRIC POWER FOR AUXILIARY EQUIPMENT OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; ELECTRODYNAMIC BRAKE SYSTEMS FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL; MAGNETIC SUSPENSION OR LEVITATION FOR VEHICLES; MONITORING OPERATING VARIABLES OF ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES; ELECTRIC SAFETY DEVICES FOR ELECTRICALLY-PROPELLED VEHICLES
    • B60L8/00—Electric propulsion with power supply from forces of nature, e.g. sun or wind
    • B60L8/003—Converting light into electric energy, e.g. by using photo-voltaic systems
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F02—COMBUSTION ENGINES; HOT-GAS OR COMBUSTION-PRODUCT ENGINE PLANTS
    • F02N—STARTING OF COMBUSTION ENGINES; STARTING AIDS FOR SUCH ENGINES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F02N11/00—Starting of engines by means of electric motors
    • F02N11/10—Safety devices
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M10/00—Secondary cells; Manufacture thereof
    • H01M10/06—Lead-acid accumulators
    • H01M10/12—Construction or manufacture
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M10/00—Secondary cells; Manufacture thereof
    • H01M10/42—Methods or arrangements for servicing or maintenance of secondary cells or secondary half-cells
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M10/00—Secondary cells; Manufacture thereof
    • H01M10/42—Methods or arrangements for servicing or maintenance of secondary cells or secondary half-cells
    • H01M10/425—Structural combination with electronic components, e.g. electronic circuits integrated to the outside of the casing
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/20—Mountings; Secondary casings or frames; Racks, modules or packs; Suspension devices; Shock absorbers; Transport or carrying devices; Holders
    • H01M50/258—Modular batteries; Casings provided with means for assembling
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M50/00—Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the non-active parts of electrochemical cells other than fuel cells, e.g. hybrid cells
    • H01M50/60—Arrangements or processes for filling or topping-up with liquids; Arrangements or processes for draining liquids from casings
    • H01M50/609—Arrangements or processes for filling with liquid, e.g. electrolytes
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02J—CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
    • H02J7/00—Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
    • H02J7/14—Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries for charging batteries from dynamo-electric generators driven at varying speed, e.g. on vehicle
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F02—COMBUSTION ENGINES; HOT-GAS OR COMBUSTION-PRODUCT ENGINE PLANTS
    • F02N—STARTING OF COMBUSTION ENGINES; STARTING AIDS FOR SUCH ENGINES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F02N11/00—Starting of engines by means of electric motors
    • F02N11/08—Circuits or control means specially adapted for starting of engines
    • F02N11/0862—Circuits or control means specially adapted for starting of engines characterised by the electrical power supply means, e.g. battery
    • F02N11/0866—Circuits or control means specially adapted for starting of engines characterised by the electrical power supply means, e.g. battery comprising several power sources, e.g. battery and capacitor or two batteries
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M16/00—Structural combinations of different types of electrochemical generators
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02J—CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
    • H02J7/00—Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
    • H02J7/14—Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries for charging batteries from dynamo-electric generators driven at varying speed, e.g. on vehicle
    • H02J7/1423—Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries for charging batteries from dynamo-electric generators driven at varying speed, e.g. on vehicle with multiple batteries
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
    • Y02E60/00—Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
    • Y02E60/10—Energy storage using batteries
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
    • Y02T—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO TRANSPORTATION
    • Y02T10/00—Road transport of goods or passengers
    • Y02T10/60—Other road transportation technologies with climate change mitigation effect
    • Y02T10/7072—Electromobility specific charging systems or methods for batteries, ultracapacitors, supercapacitors or double-layer capacitors

Definitions

  • MULTIPLE BATTERY SYSTEM MULTIPLE BATTERY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, AUXILIARY BATTERY ATTACHMENT SYSTEM, AND NETWORK CONTROLLED MULTIPLE BATTERY SYSTEM Foreign Priority Data
  • the present invention relates, generally, to rechargeable battery systems including a main and an at least one auxiliary battery disposed for selective electrical communication, and more particularly to vehicle battery systems wherein the batteries of the battery system are configured within a housing having conventional external dimensions. Additionally the present invention includes an attachment for providing an at least one auxiliary battery attachment system to a conventional battery with circuitry for selectively engaging the main and at least one auxiliary battery and a method of detecting electrical faults in an electrical system coupled to the battery system.
  • Conventional vehicle batteries include a fairly standard sized rectangular casing containing cells (six cells for twelve-volt batteries-three cells for six-volt batteries). These cells typically contain positive and negative battery plates and electrolytic fluid to allow the battery to store reserve electricity and replenish this reserve from a generating source, such as an electrical system.
  • the battery is typically coupled through a standard set of electrical cables to the electrical system of the vehicle or piece of equipment.
  • a significant problem with existing batteries occurs if, for any reason, the conventional battery loses power or is discharged. The required source for electrical power to start or operate the vehicle or device is lost. Similarly, if, for instance, automobile lights are accidentally left on for extended periods of time without the automobile running, discharge of the battery is inevitable.
  • Jump- starting also subjects both the discharged battery and the jump-starting battery to potential damage, even the possibility of a catastrophic explosion if the electrical connections are improperly coupled.
  • vehicle-to-vehicle jump-starting Primarily these devices comprise portable auxiliary power sources for jump- starting a discharged battery.
  • a major drawback of these devices is that they require the electrical system of the vehicle to be in operable condition to restore the battery.
  • Most of these portable "emergency batteries” typically comprise a small reserve battery which is plugged into the electrical system of an automobile, for example through the cigarette lighter plug, and can only be recharged in a household outlet. As it cannot be recharged from the vehicle, if the discharge recurs for any reason the user is potentially stranded.
  • Patent 3,200,014 to Roberts and U.S. Patent 3,029,301 to Strider included a three-post system from DELCO.
  • the battery housing had three external terminals extending from the cover: a main battery positive terminal, a reserve battery positive terminal, and a common negative terminal.
  • the negative terminal electrodes of each battery in the system were purportedly connected through a link in the battery housing cover assembly.
  • this vehicle electrical system required three cables to accommodate the system and required an additional solenoid that was activated during starting.
  • This non-standard configuration meant additional costs and headache for the end- user, requiring special three post batteries and cables. This and the added costs from the need for additional electrical components made the devices commercially unsuccessful.
  • a resistor for instance a variable resistance, positive temperature coefficient resistor, precedes the one-way diode.
  • the variable or positive coefficient resistor steps down the amperage to limit the amount of current, and, hence, the amount of heat generated by the diode.
  • the diode prevents the reserve battery from discharging to the main battery while allowing current to reach the battery, but it is limited to providing a trickle charge to the reserve battery for recharging.
  • a shunt is provided that is engaged in discharge scenarios to effectively bypass the resistor and diode and put the two battery units in parallel without the diode, and thereby engage the reserve battery.
  • the entire system is coupled through the negative terminals of each battery that are brought into contact in the parallel circuit.
  • the engagement of the shunt in the circuit as described dumps the discharged battery into parallel with the charged battery.
  • the charged reserve battery thus has to contend with both the load placed on it by the vehicle or device and the load of the discharged main battery. Operator error can cause additional problems. If the switch or shunt is inadvertently left in the bypass mode or if an undetected fault occurs in the battery or electrical system, the reserve unit will discharge along with the main unit, thereby impairing the ability of the reserve unit to function as an auxiliary starting battery.
  • U.S. Patent 5,256,502 to Kump discloses a set of plates and plate frames, movable bus bars, and circuitry components, including a diode in the circuitry that allows for recharging of a reserve battery defined from the set of plates and engaged by a switch.
  • the diode prevents current from being drawn from the reserve battery unless a switch is turned to a reserve setting. Similar to the '840 and '164 patents, in the '502 patent when the reserve battery plates are selectively engaged, it puts the main and reserve batteries in parallel with each other upon engagement of the switch. This solution has the same problems as the '840 and '164 patents, and, similarly couples the negative terminals of the two batteries.
  • the reserve battery is saddled with the load of the electrical system and the load of the discharged main battery when trying to start from a discharge scenario, as engagement draws the reserve electrical energy in the system down.
  • a two-part battery having a microprocessor control switch.
  • the Hwa device contains two twelve-volt batteries in a single housing sharing a common negative terminal end and a single positive terminal.
  • the secondary battery is provided for intermittent engagement to fulfill requirements for short duration, high current output situations.
  • a switch box is provided to permit switching from just the main battery to engaging the main and secondary battery. Again, the batteries are in parallel when engaged and would be poorly equipped to deal with a discharge scenario, for reasons similar to those previously discussed in regards to the other references.
  • a diode or similar device provided in the circuitry of the '750 patent for charging the secondary battery and, thus, the secondary battery is not necessarily kept in a charged state, because the secondary battery is only providing additional cranking power.
  • the U.S. 5,683,827 Patent to Yu discloses a silicon controlled rectifier for automatically switching off the battery pack when the battery pack generates an output voltage lower than a threshold voltage during a discharge cycle.
  • the rectifier is coupled with individual cells in a series of sells that comprise a battery pack.
  • the system switches packs, but does not provide for reserve electrical energy beyond the individual cells.
  • the switching does not teach or suggest an auxiliary battery, nor does it teach isolating an auxiliary battery in case of a discharge scenario.
  • the known multiple battery configurations do not permit disposition of at least two batteries, each capable of delivering sufficient power to start and operate a vehicle, within a housing defined by a conventional vehicle battery envelope and having terminal locations designed to accommodate conventional cable configurations.
  • No system is available that provides the full current of the electrical system of the vehicle to immediately begin recharging the at least one auxiliary battery.
  • the reliability and safety of previously attempted systems is hampered by diodes with insufficient current-carrying capacity, these same diodes may in fact be destroyed during recharge.
  • none of the previous devices has been able to provide both a one-way charging circuit and, when needed, the ability to isolate the auxiliary battery to provide emergency power.
  • none of the prior devices can provide a method for determining whether the cause of the main battery discharge is in the electrical system of the vehicle and still provide the auxiliary power necessary in this situation to get assistance.
  • Re-charging a battery with known devices can take significant amounts of time, if it is even possible, for instance in situations where you are stuck on a lonely back road.
  • the instant invention allows the user to quickly start and immediately begin recharging both a main and an at least one auxiliary battery.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved multiple battery system and a battery attachment system that is generally universally installable in place of a conventional battery.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved vehicle battery that contains sufficient reserve electrical power for most, if not all, situations, even in worst-case type discharge scenarios, such as failure in the electrical system.
  • a further object of the present invention is to provide an improved vehicle battery that provides auxiliary power easily and virtually instantaneously.
  • a still further object of the invention is to provide an improved vehicle battery which is simple in construction, but that does not require substantial and costly structures or modifications to existing electrical systems, circuitry, or other components, and which is economical to manufacture and use.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved vehicle battery that is efficient, durable, and reliable.
  • An object of the instant invention is to provide a circuit to isolate an auxiliary battery with sufficient reserve power to reliably start or operate a vehicle or piece of equipment.
  • a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the instant invention is efficient utilization of the available space within conventional battery housing dimensions such that the main battery exceeds SAE recommended minimum CCA output ratings for most original equipment manufacturer (OEM) vehicles.
  • a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the instant invention is to provide a switched multiple battery system having a main battery in selective electrical communication with an auxiliary battery, the system being disposed within a housing characterized by conventional external dimensions and the terminals being disposed to accommodate conventional vehicle cable configurations.
  • the use of a conventional battery-housing envelope facilitates relatively low cost production through the utilization of existing manufacturing equipment and processes. Moreover, it allows for immediate substitution of the present invention for existing batteries.
  • the cells of the main battery are disposed along the longitudinal axis of the battery housing and above the auxiliary cell housing.
  • the cells of the auxiliary battery can be approximately one-quarter the height of the main cells. In the exemplary embodiment he auxiliary cells are disposed below the main battery. This configuration renders the subject battery system interchangeable with a wide range of conventional two-terminal automotive batteries.
  • the switching mechanism is also disposed within the cover and includes a manually operable actuator for selectively establishing communication between the main and reserve batteries.
  • the switched multiple battery system is configured for disposition within a vehicle for electrical communication with conventional vehicle battery cables.
  • the operator manipulates the switch to the auxiliary position, thereby bringing the auxiliary battery online, which is maintained in the fully charged state by the charging diode circuit.
  • the operator manipulates the switch back to the normal position, thereby engaging the main and auxiliary batteries with the electrical system to begin recharge.
  • the main and auxiliary batteries being recharged in the conventional manner during vehicle operation.
  • a still further object of the invention is that the power in the auxiliary battery allows the automobile to be operated even when the main battery is discharged or incapacitated.
  • the auxiliary battery can be utilized until repair or replacement can be conveniently obtained.
  • Another object of the present invention is that both the primary and the secondary storage battery are of a sufficient strength so that under ordinary weather conditions either will operate the starter and vehicle without the aid of the other. Thus, if one of the two batteries is totally discharged for some reason the, vehicle will still be operable.
  • the apparatus of the invention includes a multiple battery system.
  • the multiple battery system includes a battery housing having a common positive terminal and a common negative terminal each coupled to an electrical system.
  • the main battery has a main positive output and a main negative output and the at least one auxiliary battery has an auxiliary positive output and an auxiliary negative output.
  • the multiple battery system includes a main electrical circuit that couples the common positive terminal with at least one switching device.
  • the at least one switching device has at least two operating positions. In a first operating position of the at least two operating positions, the common positive terminal is coupled to the main positive output of the main battery and to a one-way charging circuit that precedes and is coupled to the auxiliary positive output. In a second operating position the common positive terminal is coupled through the at least one switching device to a point in the main circuit beyond the one-way charging circuit that couples to the auxiliary positive output, coupling the common positive terminal to the auxiliary positive output.
  • the main battery can be electrically isolated from the auxiliary battery in the second position of the at least one switching device.
  • the battery housing can also include an at least one main battery compartment containing the main battery.
  • the main battery can be one of a six-volt, a twelve-volt, a fourteen-volt, or a twenty-four volt battery.
  • the battery housing can also include an at least one auxiliary battery compartment containing the at least one auxiliary battery.
  • the at least one auxiliary battery can be one of a six-volt, twelve-volt, fourteen-volt, or twenty-four volt battery.
  • the main battery can be a twelve-volt battery having six, two-volt cells and the at least one auxiliary battery can be a twelve-volt battery having six two-volt cells.
  • the battery housing can also have a main battery compartment containing the main battery and an at least one auxiliary battery compartment containing the at least one auxiliary battery, the main battery compartment being located atop the at least one auxiliary battery compartment.
  • the battery housing may also have at least one fill tube.
  • the at least one fill tube can be an at least one main battery fill tube.
  • the main battery can comprise an at least one cell and the at least one main fill tube can be a main fill tube for each cell of the main battery.
  • the at least one fill tube can also be an at least one auxiliary battery fill tube.
  • the auxiliary battery can comprise at least one cell and the at least one auxiliary fill tube can be an auxiliary fill tube for each cell of the auxiliary battery.
  • the at least one fill tube can be an at least one main fill tube and an at least one auxiliary fill tube, the at least one auxiliary fill tube passing through the main battery compartment.
  • the one-way charging circuit of the multiple battery system can comprise an at least one-way charging diode.
  • the at least one-way charging diode can be an at least one silicon rectifier.
  • the at least one silicon rectifier can be between about a 25 and 95 amperage rating.
  • the main battery can be a 12-volt automobile battery and the at least one silicon rectifier can have a 12-volt, 45 amp rating.
  • the charging circuit can comprise an at least one high capacity diode and an at least one heat sink coupled to the at least one high capacity diode.
  • the at least one high capacity diode can have between about a 25 and 95 amperage rating.
  • the at least one high capacity diode can have a 12-volt, 45 amp rating and the at least one heat sink coupled to the high capacity diode can have sufficient surface area to dissipate the heat generated by the 12-volt, 45 amp rated at least one high capacity diode.
  • the multiple battery system can also have a controller coupled to and switching the at least one switching device.
  • the multiple battery system can also have an at least one sensor in communication with the controller.
  • the at least one sensor can include an at least one main battery voltage sensor, an at least one main battery amperage sensor, an at least one auxiliary battery voltage sensor, an at least one switch position sensor, and an at least one auxiliary battery amperage sensor.
  • the controller can couple to and communicate with the position sensor to detect the position of the switching device and selectively engage the switching device based on the input of at least one of the at least one main battery voltage sensor, the at least one main battery amperage sensor, the at least one auxiliary battery voltage sensor, and the at least one auxiliary amperage sensor.
  • the multiple battery system can also have an auxiliary battery discharge system.
  • the auxiliary battery discharge system can have a controller with a timer. The timer can signal the controller to periodically change the switch position so as to discharge the auxiliary battery in the second operating position of the at least two operating positions for short periods and then switch back to the first operating position of the at least two operating positions.
  • the discharge system can also be a written instruction to manually switch the battery system to the second operating position for a brief period of time and then to manually switch the switching device to the first operating position.
  • the discharge system can also have the controller switch the switching device to couple the common positive terminal to the auxiliary battery positive output if an input signal from an at least one sensor indicates that the main battery voltage or amperage is below a trigger point.
  • the apparatus of the instant invention also includes a multiple battery system comprising a battery housing having a common positive terminal and a common negative terminal coupled to an electrical system; a main battery having a main positive output and a main negative output; an auxiliary battery having an auxiliary positive output and an auxiliary negative output; a switching device with at least two operating positions, the at least two operating positions selectively engaging said main battery and said auxiliary battery.
  • the first operating position of said at least two operating positions can have the common positive terminal coupled to the main positive output and to the auxiliary positive output through a one-way charging circuit between and preceding the auxiliary battery.
  • the second operating position of said at least two operating positions can couple the common positive terminal to the auxiliary positive such that the common positive terminal is coupled at a point beyond the one-way charging circuit to the auxiliary battery positive.
  • the second operating position of the multiple battery system can put the auxiliary battery alone in series with the electrical system and prevents electrical energy in the auxiliary battery from flowing to the main battery.
  • the one-way charging circuit can electrically isolate the main battery in the second operating position. In the first operating position, the one-way charging circuit can permit electrical energy from the electrical system to flow into both the main and auxiliary batteries, but prevent electrical energy from flowing out of the auxiliary battery. Further, in one exemplary embodiment of the instant invention only the positive outputs of the main battery and the at least one auxiliary battery are switched by the switching device. Additionally, when in the second operating position of the at least two operating positions, the system can fully disconnect the main battery from the electrical system and introduce only the at least one auxiliary battery.
  • the main battery can be one of a six-volt, twelve-volt, fourteen-volt, or twenty-four volt battery.
  • the at least one auxiliary battery can be one of a six-volt, twelve-volt, fourteen-volt or twenty-four volt battery.
  • the battery housing can comprise a main battery compartment containing the main battery and an at least one auxiliary battery compartment containing the at least one auxiliary battery, the main battery compartment being located atop the at least one auxiliary battery compartment.
  • the battery housing can also include at least one fill tube.
  • the one-way charging circuit can comprise an at least one-way charging diode.
  • the at least one-way charging diode can comprise an at least one silicon rectifier.
  • the at least one silicon rectifier can be between about a 25 and 95 amperage rating.
  • the main battery can also be a 12-volt automobile battery and the at least one silicon rectifier has a 12-volt, 45 amp rating.
  • the charging circuit can further comprise an at least one high capacity diode and an at least one heat sink coupled to the at least one high capacity diode.
  • the at least one high capacity diode has between about 25 and 95 amperage rating.
  • the at least one high capacity diode can also have a 12-volt, 45 amp rating and the at least one heat sink coupled to the high capacity diode that can have a sufficient surface area to dissipate the heat generated by the at least one diode.
  • the system can also have a controller coupled to and switching the switching device.
  • An at least one sensor in communication with the controller can be provided.
  • the at least one sensor in communication with the controller can include an at least one switch position sensor to detect the position of the switching device and the controller can then actuate the switching device based on input from the an at least one switching device sensor and at least one of a main battery voltage sensor, a main battery amperage, an auxiliary battery voltage sensor, and an auxiliary amperage sensor.
  • the system of the instant invention can also comprise an auxiliary battery discharge system.
  • the discharge system can comprise a controller with a timer, where the timer signals the controller to periodically change the switch position so as to discharge the auxiliary battery in the second operating position of the at least two operating positions for short periods and then switches back to the first operating position of the at least two operating positions.
  • the discharge system can also be a written instruction to manually switch the battery system to the second operating position for a brief period of time and then to manually switch the switching device to the first operating position.
  • the controller can also switches the switching device to couple the common positive terminal to the auxiliary battery positive output if an input signal from an at least one sensor indicates that the main battery voltage is below a trigger point.
  • the system can also be provided with an auxiliary battery cyclic discharge system that can include a timer coupled to the switching device, wherein the timer periodically actuates the switching device to the second operating mode for a short period of time and, then, actuates the switching device back to the first operating mode after the short period of time.
  • the apparatus of the invention also includes an auxiliary battery attachment system having a main battery with an at least one main positive output and an at least one main negative output and a circuitry housing having an at least one positive common terminal, an at least one negative common terminal, an at least one positive coupling and an at least one negative coupling, the at least one positive and negative couplings electrically coupling the at least one positive and at least one negative main battery outputs to the at least one positive and at least one negative common terminal which are in turn coupled to an electrical system.
  • an auxiliary battery attachment system having a main battery with an at least one main positive output and an at least one main negative output and a circuitry housing having an at least one positive common terminal, an at least one negative common terminal, an at least one positive coupling and an at least one negative coupling, the at least one positive and negative couplings electrically coupling the at least one positive and at least one negative main battery outputs to the at least one positive and at least one negative common terminal which are in turn coupled to an electrical system.
  • the system also includes an at least one auxiliary battery having an auxiliary positive output and an auxiliary negative output, each output being electrically coupled to the at least one positive common terminal and at least one negative common terminal, respectively, and a main electrical circuit comprising a coupling of the common positive terminal with an at least one switching device.
  • the at least one switching device having at least two operating positions: a first operating position of the at least two operating positions coupling the common positive terminal through the at least one positive coupling to the main positive output of the main battery and to a one-way charging circuit that precedes and is coupled to the auxiliary positive output and a second operating position wherein the common positive terminal is coupled through the at least one switching device to a point in the main circuit beyond the one-way charging circuit that couples to the auxiliary positive output.
  • the circuitry housing can be mounted atop the main battery or the circuitry housing can be mounted on a side of the main battery. Also, while in the first operating position, the oneway charging circuit permits electrical energy from the electrical system to flow into both the main and auxiliary batteries, but prevents electrical energy from flowing out of the auxiliary battery. While in the second operating position of the at least two operating positions the system fully disconnects the main battery from the electrical system and introduces only the at least one auxiliary battery.
  • the at least one positive and negative couplings can be within the circuitry housing.
  • the at least one auxiliary battery is one of a six-volt, twelve-volt, fourteen-volt, or twenty-four volt battery.
  • the circuitry housing can contain the at least one auxiliary battery.
  • the one-way charging circuit of the attachment system can comprise an at least one-way charging diode as well.
  • the at least one-way charging diode can be for instance an at least one silicon rectifier.
  • the at least one silicon rectifier can be between about a 25 and 95 amperage rating.
  • the main battery can also be a 12-volt automobile battery and the at least one silicon rectifier can have a 12-volt, 45 amp rating.
  • the multiple battery system may also provide a charging circuit having an at least one high capacity diode and an at least one heat sink coupled to the at least one high capacity diode.
  • the at least one high capacity diode can have between about 25 and 95 amperage rating.
  • the at least one high capacity diode can also have a 12-volt, 45 amp rating and the at least one heat sink coupled to the high capacity diode having a sufficient surface area to dissipate the heat generated by the 12-volt, 45 amp rated at least one diode.
  • the multiple battery system can also comprise a controller coupled to and switching the switching device.
  • An at least one sensor can also be in communication with the controller.
  • the at least one sensor in communication with the controller can include at least one switch position sensor to detect the position of the at least one switching device and at least one of a main battery voltage sensor, a main battery amperage sensor, an auxiliary battery voltage sensor, and an auxiliary amperage sensor, the switch device being actuated by the controller based on input from one of the at least one sensor.
  • the auxiliary battery attachment system can also have an auxiliary battery discharge system.
  • the auxiliary battery discharge system can have a controller with a timer. The timer can signal the controller to periodically change the switch position so as to discharge the auxiliary battery in the second operating position of the at least two operating positions for short periods and then switch back to the first operating position of the at least two operating positions.
  • the discharge system can also comprise a written instruction to manually switch the battery system to the second operating position for a brief period of time and then to manually switch the switching device to the first operating position.
  • the controller can also switch the switching device to couple the common positive terminal to the auxiliary battery positive output if an input signal from an at least one sensor indicates that the main battery voltage is below a trigger point.
  • the method of the invention includes a method of detecting a discharge condition fault in an electrical system, which can comprise the method steps of sensing an initial discharge condition within an electrical system of a vehicle or a piece of machinery, switching a battery having a main and auxiliary battery and a switching device with at least two operating positions, a main operating position wherein the main battery is coupled to an electrical system and the at least one auxiliary battery is also coupled through a one way charging diode preceding the auxiliary battery, and an auxiliary operating position in which the auxiliary battery is coupled in series with the electrical system of the vehicle or the piece of machinery and the main battery is electrically isolated.
  • the method can also include the step of returning the switching device to the auxiliary position and engaging the auxiliary battery to supply the needed energy to operate the vehicle or machinery and seek repair of the electrical fault.
  • the invention also includes a system the system being a multiple battery system having a main battery with a main positive output and a main negative output and an at least one auxiliary battery having an at least one auxiliary positive output and an at least one auxiliary negative output.
  • a main electrical circuit is also provided coupling a common positive terminal with an at least one switching device, the at least one switching device having at least two operating positions to selectively couple the main and at least one auxiliary battery to the common positive terminal. In a first operating position of the at least two operating positions electrical charge is provided to both the main battery and the at least one auxiliary battery.
  • a controller is coupled to the main electrical circuit and switches the at least one switching device based on input from an at least one sensor.
  • the system can further comprise a first operating position of the at least two operating positions that couples the common positive terminal to the main positive output of the main battery and the common positive terminal to a one-way charging circuit that precedes and is coupled to the at least one auxiliary positive output on the at least one auxiliary battery.
  • the multiple battery system may further comprise a second operating position wherein the common positive terminal is coupled through the at least one switching device to a point in the main electrical circuit, beyond the one-way charging circuit, that couples to the auxiliary positive output. .
  • the main battery can be electrically isolated from the at least one auxiliary battery in the second operating position of the at least two operating positions of the at least one switching device.
  • the system can, but is not limited to, providing only for the coupling of the positive output of the main battery and the positive output of the at least one auxiliary battery are switched by the switching device.
  • the second operating position of the at least two operating positions can, but again is not limited to, electrically isolating the main battery from the system and introducing only the at least one auxiliary battery.
  • the controller of the multiple battery system can further include an at least one indicator element.
  • the at least one indicator element can for example be, but is not limited to, an at least one klaxon, horn, light, plurality of lights, LCD panel, simulated human voice, human voice, light emitting diode, and a plurality of light emitting diodes.
  • the at least one indicator element in some exemplary embodiments is a plurality of indicator elements having at least one of a red, orange, green, or amber color.
  • the multiple battery system can further comprise a battery housing with a main battery compartment containing the main battery and an at least one auxiliary battery compartment containing the at least one auxiliary battery. .
  • the main battery compartment can be located atop the at least one auxiliary battery compartment in some embodiments.
  • the main battery compartment can also be located aside the at least one auxiliary battery compartment in other embodiments.
  • the one-way charging circuit of the instant invention can for instance be, but is not limited to, an at least one-way charging diode.
  • the at least one-way charging diode may further comprise an at least one silicon rectifier.
  • the at least one-way charging diode can be for instance, but is not limited to, an at least one Silicon Controlled Rectifier (SCR).
  • SCR Silicon Controlled Rectifier
  • the at least one Silicon Controlled Rectifier (SCR) can for instance be, but is not limited to, being coupled to the controller and being able to disable the coupling with the at least one auxiliary battery if an over charge condition is detected in the auxiliary battery.
  • the at least one auxiliary battery may comprise a single auxiliary battery. In other embodiments, the at least one battery comprises a plurality of auxiliary batteries.
  • the at least one sensor can, in some embodiments, further comprise an at least one of: an at least one main battery voltage sensor, an at least one main battery amperage sensor, an at least one auxiliary battery voltage sensor, an auxiliary battery amperage sensor, an at least one switch position sensor.
  • the at least one sensor can be for example, but is not limited to, an at least one VI sensor.
  • the controller can, in some exemplary embodiments, further comprise at least one of: an at least one microprocessor, an at least one signal processor, an at least one set of lookup tables, an at least one memory device, an at least one security protocol/encryption element and an at least one indicator element.
  • the controller is a wireless controller system.
  • the wireless controller system can include for instance, but is not limited to including, a wireless controller, a wireless transceiver, and an input device.
  • the wireless input device can also include an at least one indicator element.
  • the controller can be a network interfaceable confroller, where the network interfaceable controller has a network interface and a transceiver.
  • the network interfaceable controller can be in communication with a Network Operations Center (NOC) via a network.
  • NOC Network Operations Center
  • the network interfaceable controller can couple to and communicates with the at least one switching device to detect the position of the at least one switching device and selectively engage the at least one switching device based on the input of at least one of the at least one main battery voltage sensor, the at least one main battery amperage sensor, the at least one auxiliary battery voltage sensor, and the at least one auxiliary amperage sensor.
  • the controller can include a trigger that signals the controller to periodically change the switch position of the at least one switching device so as to discharge the at least one auxiliary battery in the second operating position of the at least two operating positions for short periods and then switch back to the first operating position of the at least two operating positions.
  • the multiple battery system wherein the multiple batteries are part of an at least one of a six-volt, a twelve-volt, a fourteen-volt, and a twenty-four volt battery electrical system.
  • the invention also includes a network controlled multiple battery system.
  • the system includes a network in communication with a network interfaceable controller and an at least one sensor sensing the condition of an at least one main battery.
  • An at least one controlled switching device is coupled to the at least one network interfaceable controller and responds to an at least one signal from the network to the network interfaceable controller switching from the main battery to an at least one auxiliary battery.
  • the main battery can include, but is not limited to, a main positive output and a main negative output and the at least one auxiliary battery can include, but is not limited to, an at least one auxiliary positive output and an at least one auxiliary negative output.
  • the at least one controlled switching device can, but is not limited to, switching between an at least two operating positions, each position selectively coupling a common terminal with at least one of the main and the at least one auxiliary battery.
  • a first operating position of the at least two operating positions can provide charge to the main battery and provide charge to the at least one auxiliary battery through a one-way charging circuit.
  • a second operating position of the at least two operating positions can couple the at least one auxiliary output of the at least one auxiliary battery to the common output.
  • the at least one-way charging circuit can include an at least one one-way charging diode.
  • the at least one-way charging diode further can for instance be, but is not limited too, an at least one silicon rectifier.
  • the at least one-way charging diode can also be for instance, but is not limited to, an at least one Silicon Controlled Rectifier (SCR).
  • SCR Silicon Controlled Rectifier
  • the at least one Silicon Controlled Rectifier (SCR) can be coupled to the controller and can also shut off if an over charge condition is detected in the auxiliary battery.
  • the network can also include an at least one controlled switching device has at least two operating positions, a first operating position of the at least two operating positions coupling a common positive terminal to a main positive output of the main battery and to a one-way charging circuit that precedes and is coupled to an at least one auxiliary positive output of the at least one auxiliary battery and a second operating position wherein the common positive terminal is coupled to the at least one auxiliary positive output of the at least one auxiliary batter a point in the system beyond the one-way charging circuit, effectively isolating the main battery directly connecting the at least one auxiliary battery.
  • the network controlled multiple battery system can also include an at least one indicator element.
  • the at least one indicator element can have an at least one light emitting diode of an at least one color.
  • the at least one indicator element can also be a plurality of indicator elements having at least one of a red, orange, green, and amber color.
  • the at least one indicator can also be, but is not limited to, an at least one of a klaxon, a horn, a light, a plurality of lights, an LCD panel, a simulated human voice, a human voice, a light emitting diode, and a plurality of light emitting diodes.
  • the at least one network interfaceable controller of the network controlled multiple battery system can for instance include, but is not limited to, an at least one microprocessor, an at least one signal transmitter, an at least one signal receiver, a security protocol/encryption element, an indicator element, an input/output bus.
  • the at least one sensor can include an at least one VI sensor.
  • the network controlled multiple battery system can be, but is not limited to being, a part of an at least one of a six-volt, a twelve-volt, a fourteen-volt, and a twenty- four volt battery electrical system.
  • the invention also includes a further multiple battery system having a battery housing with a common positive terminal and a common negative terminal coupled to an electrical system.
  • a main battery having a main positive output and a main negative output and an at least one auxiliary battery having an auxiliary positive output and an auxiliary negative output are also provided.
  • the system includes an at least one switching device with at least two operating positions, the at least two operating positions selectively engaging said main battery and said auxiliary battery and having a first operating position of said at least two operating positions, wherein the common positive terminal is coupled to the main positive output and is further coupled to the at least one auxiliary battery output through a one-way charging circuit between and preceding the at least one auxiliary battery and a second operating position of said at least two operating positions which couples the common positive terminal to the auxiliary positive such that the common positive terminal is coupled at a point beyond the one-way charging circuit to the auxiliary battery positive output.
  • the system also includes a controller coupled to and switching the at least one switching device.
  • the second operating position can couple the at least one auxiliary battery with the electrical system and prevent electrical energy in the at least one auxiliary battery from flowing to the main battery.
  • the one-way charging circuit can electrically isolates the main battery in the second operating position.
  • the at least one auxiliary battery can be a single auxiliary battery.
  • the at least one auxiliary battery can be a plurality of auxiliary batteries.
  • the one-way charging circuit can for instance be, but is not limited to, an at least one-way charging diode.
  • the at least one-way charging diode can be, but is not limited to, an at least one silicon rectifier.
  • the at least one-way charging diode can also be, but is not limited to, an at least one Silicon Controlled Rectifier (SCR).
  • SCR Silicon Controlled Rectifier
  • the multiple battery system can also include an at least one sensor in communication with the confroller.
  • the controller can actuate the switching device based on input from the at least one sensor and the at least one sensor includes at least one of an at least one main battery voltage sensor, main battery amperage, auxiliary battery voltage sensor, and auxiliary amperage sensor.
  • the multiple battery system can also include an at least one indicator element.
  • the method of the instant invention includes a method of controlling a multiple battery system comprising the method steps of polling an at least one sensor; detecting an abnormal reading from said at least one sensor; communicating the results of said detection step to an operator or a Network Operations Center; switching, upon a command from the operator, the Network Operations Center, or a controller, from a main battery to an at least one auxiliary battery; and confirming the operation of the system.
  • the method of controlling a multiple battery system can also include, after the communicating step, the method step of initiating energy conservation steps.
  • the method can also include the method step of monitoring electrical generation and transmission into the system.
  • the method can also include, after the confirming step, the method step of switching back to normal operating mode or alerting the operator or NOC to an electrical fault condition.
  • the invention also includes a further multiple battery management system.
  • the system having a common positive and common negative terminal with an at least one main battery having a main positive output and a main negative output and an at least one auxiliary battery having an auxiliary positive output and an auxiliary negative output.
  • the system also having a battery management system comprising an at least one controller, an at least one switching device, an at least one recharging selection mechanism, and an at least one sensor, wherein the battery management system selectively couples the common positive terminal with an at least one of the at least one main positive battery output or the at least one auxiliary battery positive output and the at least one recharging selection mechanism selectively couples to at least one of the at least one main or at least one auxiliary battery by coupling, through the at least one one one-way charging circuit that proceeds the recharging selection mechanism, to the main common positive pole with the respective at least on battery.
  • a battery management system comprising an at least one controller, an at least one switching device, an at least one recharging selection mechanism, and an at least one sensor, wherein the battery management system selectively couples the common positive terminal with an at least one of the at least one main positive battery output or the at least one auxiliary battery positive output and the at least one recharging selection mechanism selectively couples to at least one of the at least one main or at least one
  • the recharging selection mechanism can be, but is not limited to, one of an at least one relay or an at least one MOSFET or similar solid state electrical component.
  • the at least one switching device can have an at least two operating positions and a first operating position of the at least two operating positions can couple the common positive terminal to the main positive output of the at least one main battery.
  • the second of the two operating positions can couple the common positive terminal through the at least one switching device to the auxiliary positive output of the at least one auxiliary battery.
  • the at least one recharging selection mechanism can have at least two settings, a first setting, for instance, wherein recharging is provided through the one-way charging circuit to the auxiliary battery and a second setting wherein charge is provided through the one-way charging circuit to the main positive output of the main battery.
  • the battery management system can sense the condition of the at least one main and at least one auxiliary batteries and selectively engages the at least one switching device in said first position and said at least one recharge selection mechanism in said first position, coupling the main output of the at least one main battery to the common positive output and recharging the at least one auxiliary battery through the at least one one-way charging circuit.
  • the battery management system can sense the condition of the at least one main and at least one auxiliary batteries and selectively engage the at least one switching device in said first position and said at least one recharge selection mechanism in said second position, coupling the main output of the at least one main battery to the common positive output and recharging the at least one main battery through the at least one one-way charging circuit, whereby the at least one auxiliary battery is electrically isolated.
  • the battery management system can also sense the condition of the at least one main and at least one auxiliary batteries and selectively engage the at least one switching device in said second position and said at least one recharge selection mechanism in a first position, coupling the auxiliary positive output of the at least one auxiliary battery to the common positive output and recharging the at least one auxiliary battery through the at least one one-way charging circuit, whereby the at least one main battery is electrically isolated.
  • the battery management system can sense the condition of the at least one main and at least one auxiliary batteries and selectively engage the at least one switching device in said second position and said at least one recharge selection mechanism in a second position, coupling the auxiliary positive output of the at least one auxiliary battery to the common positive output and recharging the at least one main battery through the at least one one-way charging circuit.
  • the at least one one-way charging circuit can comprise for instance, but is not limited to, an at least one one-way charging diode.
  • the at least one one-way charging diode further can be for instance, but is not limited to, an at least one silicon rectifier.
  • the at least one one-way charging diode can be an at least one silicon controlled rectifier (SCR).
  • the at least one controller can couple to and communicate with a position sensor to detect the position of the switching device and selectively engages the switching device based on the input of at least one of the at least one main battery voltage sensor, the at least one main battery amperage sensor, the at least one auxiliary battery voltage sensor, and the at least one amperage sensor.
  • the at least one auxiliary battery comprises a plurality of auxiliary batteries or a single auxiliary battery.
  • the battery management system can also further comprise for instance, but not limited to, an at least one of: an at least one microprocessor, an at least one signal processor, an at least one set of lookup tables, an at least one memory device, an at least one security protocol/encryption element and an at least one indicator element.
  • the at least one indicator element can be for instance, but certainly is not limited to, an at least one of a klaxon, a horn, a light, a plurality of lights, an LCD panel, a simulated human voice, a human voice, a light emitting diode, a plurality of light emitting diodes. Additionally, the at least one indicator element can be a plurality of indicator elements having at least one of a red, orange, green, or amber color.
  • the invention also includes a vehicle multiple battery system.
  • the system can comprise an accessory battery having a accessory positive output and a accessory negative output, a starter battery having a starter positive output and a starter negative output, and a controller coupled to an at least one sensor, the controller sensing the condition of the accessory and starter batteries and switching an at least one switching device to one of the at least two switching positions.
  • the system can further comprise a switching device with at least two operating positions, the at least two operating positions selectively engaging said accessory battery and said starter battery and comprising a first operating position of said at least two operating positions wherein the common positive terminal is coupled to the accessory positive output and is further coupled to the at least one starter battery positive output through a one-way charging circuit between and preceding the at least one starter battery and a second operating position of said at least two operating positions which couples the common positive terminal to the starter positive such that the common positive terminal is coupled at a point beyond the one-way charging circuit to the starter battery positive.
  • the controller can place the at least one switching device in the second operating position which puts the starter battery alone in series with the electrical system and prevents electrical energy in the starter battery from flowing to the accessory battery.
  • the one-way charging circuit can electrically isolate the accessory battery in the second operating position. Similarly, in the first operating position, the one-way charging circuit can permit electrical energy from the electrical system to flow into both the accessory and starter batteries, but prevents elecfrical energy from flowing out of the starter battery. In the second operating position, the accessory battery is electrically isolated from the starter battery.
  • the vehicle multiple battery system may also provide, though it is certainly not limited to, having the positive outputs of the accessory battery and the at least one starter battery switched by the switching device.
  • the second operating position of the at least two operating positions can fully disconnect the accessory battery from the electrical system and introduce only the at least one starter battery.
  • the accessory battery can be for example, but is not limited to, a 60 amp hour battery.
  • the at least one starter battery can be for example, but is not limited to, a 25 amp hour battery.
  • the one-way charging circuit can be for example, but is not limited to, an at least one-way charging diode.
  • the at least one-way charging diode further can be for example, but is not limited to, an at least one silicon rectifier.
  • the at least one silicon rectifier can be for example, but is not limited to, a silicon controlled rectifier.
  • the vehicle multiple battery system can also include a confroller coupled to and switching the switching device and coupled to the one way charging circuit.
  • An at least one sensor in can be in communication with the confroller.
  • the at least one sensor in communication with the controller can include an at least one switch position sensor to detect the position of the switching device and wherein the controller actuates the switching device based on input from the at least one switching device sensor and at least one of a battery voltage sensor, a current sensor, and a VI sensor.
  • the at least one Silicon Controlled Rectifier (SCR) can also be, for example, coupled to the controller and can disable the coupling of the SCR with the at least one auxiliary battery if a thermal runaway condition is detected in the auxiliary battery by the at least one sensor.
  • the invention also includes a still further exemplary embodiment of a vehicle multiple battery management system.
  • This exemplary embodiment can have a common positive and common negative terminal, an at least one accessory battery having an accessory positive output and a accessory negative output, at least one starter battery having a starter positive output and an starter negative output; and a battery management system.
  • the battery management system can have, but is not limited to, an at least one controller, an at least one switching device, an at least one recharging selection mechanism, and an at least one sensor, wherein the battery management system selectively couples a common positive terminal with at least one of the accessory or starter battery positive outputs and the battery management system also selectively couples the at least one recharging selection mechanism to the accessory or the starter battery by coupling, through the at least one one-way charging circuit that proceeds the recharging selection mechanism, the respective battery output to the common output.
  • the at least on recharging selection mechanism can be for example, but is not limited to, one of an at least one relay or an at least one MOSFET or similar solid state electrical component.
  • the at least one switching device can have for example, but is not limited to, at least two operating positions and a first operating position of the at least two operating positions can couple the common positive terminal to the accessory positive output of the at least one accessory battery.
  • the second of the two operating positions can couple the common positive terminal through the at least one switching device to the starter positive output of the at least one starter battery.
  • the at least one recharging selection mechanism can have for example, but is not limited to, an at least two settings, a first setting wherein recharging can be provided through the oneway charging circuit to the starter battery and a second setting wherein charge can be provided through the one-way charging circuit to the accessory positive output of the accessory battery.
  • the battery management system can sense the condition of the at least one accessory and at least one starter batteries and can selectively engage the at least one switching device in said first position and said at least one recharge selection mechanism in said first position, coupling the accessory output of the at least one accessory battery to the common positive output and recharging the at least one starter battery through the at least one one-way charging circuit.
  • the battery management system can also sense the condition of the at least one accessory and at least one starter batteries and can selectively engage the at least one switching device in said first position and said can engage the at least one recharge selection mechanism in said second position, coupling the accessory output of the at least one accessory battery to the common positive output and recharging the at least one accessory battery through the at least one one-way charging circuit, whereby the at least one starter battery is electrically isolated.
  • the vehicle multiple battery management system of claim 34 wherein the battery management system senses the condition of the at least one accessory and at least one starter batteries and selectively engages the at least one switching device in said second position and said at least one recharge selection mechanism in a first position, coupling the starter positive output of the at least one starter battery to the common positive output and recharging the at least one starter battery through the at least one one-way charging circuit, whereby the at least one accessory battery is electrically isolated.
  • the battery management system can sense the condition of the at least one accessory and at least one starter batteries and can selectively engage the at least one switching device in said second position and said at least one recharge selection mechanism in a second position, coupling the starter positive output of the at least one starter battery to the common positive output and recharging the at least one accessory battery through the at least one one-way charging circuit.
  • the at least one one-way charging circuit can be for example, but is not limited to, an at least one one-way charging diode.
  • the at least one one-way charging diode can be for example, but is not limited to, an at least one silicon rectifier.
  • the at least one one-way charging diode can be for example, but is not limited to, an at least one silicon confrolled rectifier (SCR).
  • the controller can couple to and communicate with a switch position sensor to detect the position of the switching device and selectively engages the switching device based on the input of at least one of the at least one accessory battery voltage sensor, the at least one accessory battery amperage sensor, the at least one starter battery voltage sensor, and the at least one amperage sensor.
  • the confroller may include an at least one indicator element.
  • the at least one indicator element can be for example, but is not limited to, an at least one of a klaxon, a horn, a light, a plurality of lights, an LCD panel, a simulated human voice, a human voice, a light emitting diode, a plurality of light emitting diodes.
  • the at least one indicator element can also be for example, but is not limited to, a plurality of indicator elements having at least one of a red, orange, green, or amber color.
  • the method of the instant invention can also include the additional method steps of detecting a cycling frigger or flag; switching, upon detection of a trigger or flag, to the at least one auxiliary battery; monitoring the at least one auxiliary battery for discharge, adequate recharge and normal operation; running the electrical system on the auxiliary battery for period of time; checking the at least one auxiliary battery for discharge through the at least one sensor; and returning the at least one switch back to engage the main battery.
  • the method of the instant invention also includes a method of battery management, including the steps of detecting the condition of an at least one main battery and an at least one auxiliary battery; selectively switching a multiple battery system having a main and an auxiliary battery between an at least two positions to selectively engage at least one of the main or auxiliary batteries based on charge balancing parameters set within a confroller; selectively recharging a battery system through selectively engaging a first of an at least two positions in a recharging mechanism; and maintaining a charge level in each battery through the selective switching and selective recharge of the batteries in the system.
  • Figure 1 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of the instant invention.
  • Figures 2a and 2b show a top view and a cross-sectional view, respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of the instant invention.
  • Figures 3a and 3b show a top view and a circuit diagram, respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of the instant invention in a normal operational mode.
  • Figures 4a and 4b show a top view and a circuit diagram, respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of the instant invention in an auxiliary operational mode.
  • Figures 5a and 5b show a top view and a circuit diagram, respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of the instant invention in the storage operational mode.
  • Figures 5C-5E show electrical schematics of a still further exemplary embodiment of the instant invention.
  • Figures 5F-5I show electrical schematics of a still further exemplary embodiment of the instant invention having an enhanced battery management system.
  • Figures 6 and 7 show isometric views of exemplary embodiments of the instant invention as an auxiliary battery attachment system for existing main batteries.
  • Figure 8A shows a circuit diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the instant invention incorporating an automated controller.
  • Figure 8B shows a circuit diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the instant invention incorporating an automatic controller and indicator element.
  • Figure 8C shows an electrical schematic of a still further embodiment of the instant invention.
  • Figure 9 shows a circuit diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the instant invention incorporating an auxiliary discharge cycling system.
  • Figure 10A shows a component diagram of a still further exemplary embodiment of the instant invention incorporating a wireless interface and wireless control input.
  • Figure 10B shows a component diagram of a yet another exemplary embodiment of the instant invention incorporating a network interfaced controller and network.
  • Figure 11A shows a flow chart of the operational steps for an exemplary embodiment of the controller in the instant invention.
  • Figure 1 IB shows a flow chart of the operational steps for a further exemplary embodiment of the confroller in the instant invention including auxiliary battery maintenance steps.
  • Figures 12A-12D show electrical schematics of a still further exemplary embodiment of the instant invention having an enhanced battery management system
  • the instant invention is directed to a multiple battery system, having a main and an at least one auxiliary battery combination.
  • the instant invention is dimensioned to be a standard twelve-volt battery for auto, truck, marine and machinery applications meeting the original equipment manufacturers specifications.
  • the non-limiting exemplary embodiment as shown in Figures 1, 2a and 2b, comprises two twelve two-volt batteries in a single battery housing of conventional size and proportion.
  • the main battery 100 and the standby, auxiliary, or backup battery 200 are contained in the housing 10, as further described herein below.
  • Additional embodiments could include modifications to provide six-volt, twenty-four volt, thirty-six volt, forty-eight volt, seventy-two volt and the like main and/or auxiliary batteries. Additional configurations and variations in the number of batteries, voltage of the batteries, numbers of cells, relative power of each cell, and number of compartments containing the cells can be provided to suit a particular application and would not depart from the aspects of the invention.
  • Figure 1 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of the instant invention.
  • the upper portion of the battery housing 10 contains the main battery 100 while the lower portion of the battery housing 10 comprises the auxiliary battery 200.
  • the main battery 100 accounts for about three-quarters and the auxiliary battery 200 accounts for about one-quarter of the battery housing 10.
  • the main battery 100 terminates in a main positive output 110 and main negative output 120.
  • the auxiliary battery terminates in a second or auxiliary positive output 210 and a second or auxiliary negative output 220.
  • the exemplary embodiment shown provides two positive outputs and two negative outputs internal to the battery housing for each battery.
  • At least one common positive post or terminal in this case a set of common positive posts or terminals 310, and at least one common negative posts or terminals, here a set of common negative posts or terminals 320, are electrically coupled to the first 1 10, 20 and second set 120, 220 of outputs.
  • the positive outputs 110, 210 are selectively coupled through switching device 300, as further described herein below.
  • Additional exemplary embodiments can provide single positive common terminals and single negative common terminals.
  • the coupling of the terminals 310, 320 to the respective outputs is internal to the battery housing 10. This coupling can be done in any suitable manner, for instance a bus coupling or bus bar or through a wiring connection or similar electrical coupling means. Additional batteries may be added and the coupling of the batteries may be made external or partially external to the battery housing without departing from the spirit of the invention.
  • the common negative and positive terminals or posts 310, 320 protrude from the top and side of the external battery housing so as to be external to the battery housing 10 and easily coupled to elecfrical connectors extending from the electrical system (not shown).
  • This configuration accommodates the elecfrical connectors for common vehicle and equipment electrical systems.
  • Variation in the placement, the number and the type of possible posts or connections can be provided without departing from the inventive aspects of the instant invention.
  • One non-limiting example of such a variation would be an exemplary embodiment providing internal connections to the common terminals for systems and vehicles in harsh environments.
  • the main positive output 110 and auxiliary positive output 210 are coupled to a switching device 300, which in turn selectively electrically couples in various operating positions the batteries 100, 200 and their respective positive outputs 110, 210 to the common positive terminal 310 based on various operating conditions and switch positions. Each operating position corresponds to different circuit configurations for coupling the main battery positive output 110 and auxiliary battery positive output 210 to the common positive output post or terminal 310.
  • switching device 300 is included in the housing. It selectively electrically couples the main battery 100 and the auxiliary battery 200 to the electrical system of the vehicle. Additional embodiments can vary the number of operating positions or location and placement of the switching device 300. For instance, in additional exemplary embodiments the switching device 300 may be included with an attachment or separate housing containing the circuitry and auxiliary battery 200, as discussed further in relation to figures 6 and 7 herein below. Furthermore, for the sake of brevity in this description, reference is made to a three-position switching device 300 having first 350, second 360, and tertiary 370 switch positions. The relative number and position of the switch positions as shown can be changed or varied without departing from the inventive aspects of the device.
  • switching of the switching device 300 may be automated through a control mechanism or circuit that senses the condition of the battery system, as further discussed in relation to Figure 8 herein below.
  • a periodic discharge system for the multiple battery system of the instant invention can also be added, as further described in relation to Figure 9.
  • the switching device 300 has a first or normal operating mode or position 350. In this position the vehicle or equipment operates off the main battery 100 which is always receiving a charge from the electrical system of the vehicle or equipment when it is running and charging the auxiliary battery 200, as further described in relation to Figures 3A and 3B below.
  • the switching device 300 would have a secondary or auxiliary position or operating mode 360, wherein the auxiliary battery 200 would be engaged as the sole source of electrical power for the vehicle or device, as further described in relation to figures 4A and 4B below.
  • the second or auxiliary switch operating mode or position 360 would be used for emergency back up when needed to start and or operate the vehicle when the main battery 100 is incapable of starting or operating the vehicle, equipment, or machinery or when cycling the auxiliary battery 200, as discussed below.
  • a tertiary or storage operating mode or position 370 would be provided wherein the switching device 300 would disconnect both the main battery positive output 110 and the auxiliary battery positive output 210 from the common positive terminal 310 when not in use.
  • FIGS 2a and 2b show a top view and a cross-sectional view, respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of the instant invention.
  • each of the batteries is comprised of sets of cells contained within a main compartment 109 and an auxiliary compartment 209, respectively.
  • the main battery compartment 109 and auxiliary battery compartment 209 are located one above the other, however, the relative position of each compartment can be varied.
  • the first set of six two-volt main cells 101-106 is coupled in series to form the main battery 100.
  • the second set of six two-volt cells 201-206 is also coupled in series form the standby, auxiliary, or backup battery 200.
  • the first set of six main cells 101-106 that form main battery 100 terminates at main positive output 110 and main negative output 120.
  • the second set of six auxiliary cells 201-206 that form the auxiliary battery 200 terminates at auxiliary positive output 210 and auxiliary negative output 220.
  • an at least one thin channel or tube, tubes 111-116 as shown is provided to the main battery 100 or each of the individual cells 101-106 of the main battery 100.
  • an at least one thin channel or tube, tubes 211-216 as depicted drop between the individual main cells 101-106 of the main battery 100 to act as fill tubes for the electrolytic fluid and act as a vent.
  • the fill tubes or channel can be varied in both number and length to suit particular space and manufacturing constraints, but permit the venting of gasses and the maintenance of electrolytic fluid levels. Additionally the fill tubes or channel may be capped or uncapped, as is known in the art.
  • Figures 3a and 3b show a top view and a circuit diagram, respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of the instant invention in a normal operational mode.
  • Figure 3A shows the device in a first switch position 350.
  • the main battery 100 is electrically couple to the electrical system and the auxiliary battery 200 is electrically coupled to the electrical system through the one way charging circuit 400.
  • the electrical system (not shown) is coupled to common positive post 310, which in turn is coupled to the switching device 300.
  • the switching device 300 when in the SI position or normal operating mode 350, connects both the main positive output 110 and the auxiliary positive output 210 via the one way charging circuit 400 to the common positive post 310 and, thereby, the electrical system (not shown). Both the main negative output 120 and auxiliary negative output 220 are coupled to the negative output post or terminal 320, which is coupled back to the elecfrical system (not shown) to complete the connection.
  • the two batteries are coupled by a one-way charging circuit 400 that precedes the auxiliary battery 200, as indicated in the circuit diagram of Figure 3B.
  • the one-way charging circuit 400 is a one-way circuit allowing for electricity to pass from the elecfrical system of the vehicle (not shown) to replenish the auxiliary battery 200.
  • the electrical system of the vehicle (not shown) is providing the current needed to run all the auxiliary equipment, it is simultaneously, through the one-way charging circuit 400, also providing a full charging voltage to the backup or auxiliary or standby battery 200 as well as preventing any discharge from the backup or auxiliary battery 200.
  • the one way charging circuit 400 is a one-way electrical valve permitting electricity to flow into the auxiliary battery 200 in the main or first switch position 350.
  • the one-way charging circuit 400 provides the full current to the auxiliary battery 200 for charging.
  • This is a significant departure from prior systems that disclosed variable coefficient resistors and the like in series with low capacity diodes, as these prior systems could only provide a very small amount of power to the respective standby or reserve battery.
  • the instant invention utilizes a charging circuit that allows for the full current flow to both the main and auxiliary batteries simultaneously to allow for a speedy recovery of both batteries. This does not, however, limit the device from incorporating current regulating components to vary the amount of charge in the circuit, through the charging circuit, or to either of the batteries.
  • One exemplary embodiment of the one-way charging circuit 400 is a circuit that includes an at least one one-way charging diode 410.
  • the one-way charging diode 410 can be, in an exemplary embodiment, but is not limited to, an at least one silicone rectifier.
  • the at least one silicone rectifier as the at least one one-way charging diode 410 would allow for the full current provided by the electrical system of the vehicle to reach the auxiliary battery 200 for recharging, while generating a minimum heat load and preventing the main battery from draining the auxiliary battery 200.
  • the at least one silicone rectifier can be of any amperage and any voltage as dictated by the amperage and voltage of the electrical system of the application.
  • silicon rectifiers having amperage ratings of between about twenty- five and ninety-five can be used for example in twelve-volt auto, light truck, and marine systems.
  • a non-limiting example is an exemplary embodiment for conventional twelve-volt automobiles that, for instance, uses a silicon rectifier having a forty-five amp rating as the one-way charging diode 410 as a part of the one-way charging circuit 400.
  • a further exemplary configuration could include an at least one Silicone Controlled Rectifier (SCR) as further described in relation to Figure 8C.
  • Additional charging circuit configurations could include, but are not limited to, an at least one high capacity one-way diode 410. This can be coupled with an at least one high capacity heat sink as the one-way charging circuit 400.
  • the combination of an at least one high capacity diode 410 would need to be coupled to a suitable heat sink or similar heat dissipation device that can handle the high amounts of heat generated by the diode.
  • a suitable heat sink or similar heat dissipation device that can handle the high amounts of heat generated by the diode.
  • Having a high capacity diode is critical as the higher amounts of heat might be unsafe if the diode is mounted alone or in too close a proximity to the volatile components of a battery.
  • the amount and rate of heat dissipation is greatly affected by a wide range of parameters associated with the application, the size and placement of the high capacity diode and the heat sink can vary greatly.
  • Various design parameters associated with the diode environment including but not limited to the proximity to plastics and volatile chemicals, the size of the at heat sink or sinks, the diode size, the location of the battery, the environment of the battery, and other parameters can be used in determining the size and ratings of the high capacity diode and heat sink combination and placement of the combination within or without the battery housing.
  • Figures 4a and 4b show a top down view and a circuit diagram, respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of the instant invention in an auxiliary operational mode.
  • An operator or a controller manipulates the switching device 300 to the second or auxiliary position or mode 360, represented by switch position S2 in the circuit diagram of Figure 4B.
  • This electrically couples the common positive terminal 310, and thus the elecfrical system of the vehicle, to the positive output 210 of the auxiliary battery 200.
  • the connection isolates the auxiliary battery 200 from the main battery 100, as the charging diode 400 prevents electrical current from the electrical system of the vehicle (not shown) from flowing into the main battery 100 while in this operating mode. Again, this circuit is significantly different from previous devices that dump the reserve battery into parallel with the discharged main battery.
  • the operating mode can be manipulated back into the first or main operational position 350 and the full electrical energy of the elecfrical system of the vehicle can be put into charging both the main battery 100 and the auxiliary battery 200. Additionally, failure to continue operating in the normal operating mode would be an indicator that a short or electrical system failure has occurred, as further described herein below.
  • Figures 5a and 5b show a top down view and a circuit diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the instant invention in a tertiary operational mode.
  • An operator or controller manipulates the switching device 300 to the tertiary, off, or storage position 370, represented by switch position S3 in the circuit diagram of Figure 5B.
  • This position provides for disconnection of both batteries for storage.
  • the S3 position disconnects the main positive output 110 and the auxiliary positive output 210 from the common positive terminal 310 and, thereby, the electrical system of the vehicle or equipment. This is useful if the vehicle or equipment is being placed in storage for instance or if the battery is being stored.
  • FIGS 5C-5I show an electrical schematics for a still further exemplary embodiment of the instant invention.
  • the multiple batteries serve specific purposes determined by the operating state of a vehicle.
  • an at least one accessory battery 100A operates to provide the vehicle and the vehicle accessories power after starting.
  • a starter battery 200A is isolated from the at least one accessory battery 100A by a one-way charging circuit 400A.
  • the one-way charging circuit 400A includes, at least in part, a Silicon Confrolled Rectifier (SCR) 410A, which is coupled to a controller 700.
  • SCR Silicon Confrolled Rectifier
  • Power is provided to the multiple battery system by an electrical system (not shown) within the vehicle.
  • the controller 700A is provided and coupled to at least one switching device 300A, the one-way charging circuit 400A and an at least one sensor 7000. Electrical power flows from the elecfrical system (not shown) of the vehicle through the at least one switching device 300A, which can be controlled by the controller 700A or an operator to selectively engage the multiple battery system.
  • the at least one switching device 300A may comprise multiple switching device or a single independent switching device as shown. Again, reference is made here to a single switching device having three switching positions SI A, S2A, S3 A, however, greater or fewer switch positions may be provided.
  • the exemplary embodiment is shown in an accessory operating position.
  • the SCR 410A allows charge to flow to the starter battery 200A through the one-way charging circuit, thus preventing discharge from this battery during operation of the accessory battery 100A or the accessories.
  • the confroller 700A through the at least one sensor 7000 can determine if a thermal runaway condition exists in the starter battery 200A.
  • Thermal runaway is a condition whereby a cell or a battery on charge or discharge will overload and destroy itself through internal heat generation caused by some abusive condition. This often occurs when a battery or cell is continuously charged or receives an excessive charge over a short period of time.
  • the SCR 410A permits the controller 700A, upon sensing the thermal runaway or other adverse condition, to effectively shut down the charging circuit 400A by shutting off the SCR 410A and stopping the recharging of the starter battery 200 A.
  • Figures 5D and 5E the embodiment of Figure 5C is shown in a shut down position and in a starting position, respectively.
  • Figure 5D shows a shut down position for the embodiment of Figure 5C.
  • the multiple battery system may be placed in switch position S3 A, corresponding to a shut down position or, alternatively, switch position S2A a starting position.
  • switch position S3 A both batteries are fully disconnected, preventing operation of accessories and preventing the starting of the vehicle. This provides enhanced vehicle security as well as additional preservation of charge by conserving the charge in both batteries.
  • the system may remain in the accessory position S 1 A for a predetermined time or until the controller 700A senses that all accessories have been shut off and then switched to switch position S3 A.
  • switch position S3 A may also be omitted and the battery instead be set to a starting position or position S2A.
  • Figure 5F shows the embodiment of Figure 5C in a starting position.
  • the starting position or switch position S2A is selected upon positive recognition of a starting sequence by the confroller 700A or by manual operation by the operator.
  • the positive recognition of a starting sequence may, for example, occur upon insertion of a key or detection of an electronic key or microchip.
  • the controller 700A communicates with the at least one switching device 300A and switches the device to switch position S2A.
  • the at least one switching device 300A engages the starter battery 200A in a manner that isolates it from the accessory battery 100A by connecting to the elecfrical circuit at a point beyond the one-way charging circuit 400A, here at a point beyond the SCR 410A.
  • the controller Upon starting the vehicle, the controller senses a normal operating condition through an at least one sensor 7000 and switches the vehicle back to switch position SI A, where in the vehicle is run on the accessory battery 100A.
  • This allows the starter battery 200A to be maintained at 100% charge for starting operations and, unlike other systems, the state of the accessory battery 100A does not matter during the starting procedures.
  • the accessory battery 100A in the instant invention is never brought into parallel with the battery 200A and the starting battery 200A never has to contend with the load of a diminished accessory battery 100A. Therefore the accessory battery 100A may be entirely discharged and the system will still function to start a vehicle.
  • FIGS 5F-5I show a still further embodiment of the instant invention.
  • the multiple batteries serve specific purposes determined by the operating state of a vehicle, but similar to Figures 12A - 12C an enhanced charge balancing battery management system 8000A is provided in this exemplary embodiment.
  • Charge balancing is a flexible control system that monitors the condition of each battery and manages both the discharging and recharging of the system within parameters established in the battery management system.
  • the battery management system can selectively control the multiple batteries and maintain the individual charge levels by managing which battery is engaged and which battery or batteries are being recharged.
  • the charge balancing battery management system 8000A includes a controller 700A, for example a microprocessor, switching device 300A and an at least one recharge selection mechanism, herein depicted as recharge balancing relay 2A.
  • the recharge selection mechanism can for example be, but is not limited to, an at least one MOSFET device or similar solid state device providing similar electrical path selection capabilities.
  • an at least one accessory battery 100A and a starting battery 200A are provided for selectively coupling to a vehicle electrical system (not shown).
  • the multiple battery system can selectively control charge to either battery and thereby prevent thermal runaway conditions or overcharging of either battery.
  • Figure 5F shows the instant embodiment in a first operating configuration.
  • the at least one sensor 700 in the exemplary embodiment depicted two VI sensors 7001, 7003, and a starter sensor 7005, provides input to the charge balancing battery management system 8000A regarding the condition of both the main and auxiliary batteries 100 A, 200A and/or the electrical system.
  • the charge balancing battery management system 8000A through controller 700A switches the at least one means 300A and the recharge balancing relay 2.
  • the charge balancing battery management system 8000A is coupled to the at least one switching device 300A with an at least two switch positions.
  • the at least one switching device 300A has, but is certainly not limited to, switching positions SI A, S2A and S3 A.
  • a oneway charging circuit 400A Additionally coupled from to charge balancing battery management system 8000A is a oneway charging circuit 400A. Following the one way charging circuit 400A is a charge-balancing relay 2A. The charge-balancing relay 2A moves between a first relay position RI A and a second relay position R2A. The at least one switching device 300A and the at least one recharge balancing relay 2A are selectively coupled to the main battery 100A and the auxiliary battery 200A as shown in each 5F-5I by the controller 700A as part of the battery management system 8000A.
  • the at least one switching device 300A is in position SI A operating the vehicle from the accessory battery 100A. Simultaneously the at least one charges balancing relay 2A is in relay position R1A providing the charge through the one way charging circuit 400A to the starter battery 200A. This is the operating mode of the system when the vehicle has started.
  • Figure 5G shows a second operating configuration for the embodiment of Figure 5F.
  • the at least one switching device 300A is in position SI A operating the vehicle from the accessory battery 100A.
  • the at least one charges balancing relay 2A is in relay position R2A shunting power from the one way charging circuit 400A to the accessory battery 100A. This prevents charge from reaching the starter battery 200A.
  • This operating mode would be selected if an overcharge condition or thermal runaway condition were detected in the starter battery 200A.
  • the charge balancing battery management system 8000A would receive this information through an at least one sensor 7000.
  • the controller 700A would analyze the data and switch accordingly to the operating mode. Additionally, a visual alert can be provided to the operator of the vehicle to alert them to the overcharge condition and the change in operating configuration.
  • Figure 5H shows a third operating configuration for the embodiment of Figure 5F.
  • the controller 700A puts the at least one switching device 300A in position S2A engaging the starter battery 200A to start the vehicle.
  • the controller 700A also sets the at least one recharge balancing relay 2 A in relay position R2A coupling the at least one charging circuit 400A to the accessory battery 100A, which provides unidirectional electrical flow to the accessory battery 100A.
  • the system is being run on the starter battery 200A.
  • This operational configuration occurs when a start up condition is sensed by the charge balancing battery management system 8000A.
  • the charge balancing battery management system 8000A can switch back to the operating configuration shown in Figure 5F, thus engaging the accessory battery 100A and continuing to allow it to recharge.
  • Figure 51 shows a fourth operating configuration for the embodiment of Figure 5F.
  • the at least one switching device 300A is again set to switch position S2A.
  • the at least one recharge balancing relay 2A is in relay position RI A coupling the at least one charging circuit 400A directly to the starter battery 100A, effectively isolating the accessory battery 100A.
  • the vehicle is running on the starter battery 200A without charging the accessory battery 100 A.
  • This configuration is an emergency configuration, used if the accessory battery 100A is damaged and will not hold charge. In this case the starter battery 200A is be engaged and used to run the vehicle in this operational configuration until service can be sought for the accessory battery 100A.
  • This configuration may be accompanied by an alert for the driver, for instance an audible or visual alarm 7050, similar to the alerts described herein in relation to Figures 1 IA and 1 IB. Additionally, the charge balancing battery management system 8000A may restrict the type and number of accessories run in the vehicle in this configuration.
  • FIGS 6 and 7 show isomefric views of alternate exemplary embodiments of the instant invention employed as an auxiliary battery attachment for existing main batteries.
  • the circuitry, switching device 300, and auxiliary battery 200 are provided as a "backpack" battery attachment system.
  • the conventional main battery 1000 does not share a common housing with the auxiliary battery 200, but instead the two are coupled through positive coupling 330 and negative coupling 340, and a common circuitry housing 509.
  • the circuitry housing 509 is hung from the conventional main battery 1000 and its existing positive output 1 100 and negative output 1200. This allows application of the invention to existing conventional batteries.
  • the exemplary embodiment of the attachment device shown in figure 6 is coupled to the existing main battery 1000 by disconnecting the electrical leads (not shown) coming from the vehicle or machinery and applying the leads to the common negative terminal 320 and common positive terminal 310 of the exemplary embodiment, located externally on the common circuitry housing 509 in the embodiment depicted.
  • the exemplary embodiments depicted in both figures 6 and 7 have the same switching device 300 as the previously discussed exemplary embodiments, but only six cells comprising the auxiliary battery 200 are enclosed within the circuitry housing 509.
  • Auxiliary positive output 210 and auxiliary battery negative output 220 are also enclosed in the circuitry housing and electrically coupled to the common positive terminal 310 and common negative terminal 320, in a manner similar to that discussed above in the previous exemplary embodiments.
  • the circuitry housing 509, the one-way charging circuit 400, and the switching device 300 can be provided to perform all of the same functions of the previously described exemplary embodiments of the instant invention, along with the same variations.
  • the exemplary embodiment shown includes a similar one-way charging circuits 400, that can include at least one one-way charging diode 400 and similar switched circuit configurations with positions SI, S2 and S3, as described in relation to Figures 3b, 4b, and 5b. Similar amperage ratings and voltages for various applications can be utilized in the exemplary embodiments of the attachment system. This provides similar functionality from the attachment system embodiments of the instant invention.
  • the positions would include a first, main, or normal operating mode or position 350 in which the vehicle or equipment operates off the main battery 1000, which is always receiving a charge from the electrical system of the vehicle or equipment and charging the auxiliary battery 200; a secondary or auxiliary position 360, where the auxiliary battery 200 would be engaged as the sole source of elecfrical power for the vehicle or device; and a tertiary or storage position 370.
  • the second or auxiliary switch position 360 would be used for emergency back up when needed to start and or operate the vehicle when the main battery 1000 is incapable of starting or operating the vehicle, equipment, or machinery.
  • the attachment device would provide a retrofit version of the instant invention, requiring no modification or conversion of existing vehicle or machinery electrical systems, while providing identical performance to the exemplary embodiments of the multiple battery system.
  • the shape and configuration of the exemplary embodiments of the attachment system can be varied to fit the specific space constraints of various applications.
  • the further embodiment of Figure 7 is horizontally oriented so as to sit atop the main battery 1000 rather than hang from the side.
  • the elements of the exemplary embodiment of the attachment device shown in Figure 7 are similar to the exemplary embodiment of the invention shown in Figure 6, the conventional main battery 1000 does not share a common housing with the auxiliary battery 200, but the two are coupled through a common circuitry housing 509 and couplings 330 and 340.
  • FIG. 8A shows a circuit diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the instant invention incorporating an automated confroller.
  • a controller 700 is provided, this can for instance be, but is not limited to, a microprocessor.
  • the controller 700 is coupled to the at least one sensor in the battery system to sense the condition of at least one of the batteries through these connections.
  • the controller 700 monitors and detects various operating conditions of the batteries through the at least one sensor.
  • the at least one sensor can include, but is not limited to, any of an at least one main battery, an at least one auxiliary battery, and at least one switch sensor or any additional sensors that may be appropriate.
  • the confroller 700 can continuously or selectively monitor for example, but not limited to, any of the following parameters with any of the at least one main, auxiliary, or switch sensors: the auxiliary battery voltage, the main battery voltage, the auxiliary battery amperage, the main battery amperage, temperature, vibration, current, the switch state, the switch position, and the condition of various flags and various timers within the system or similar parameters.
  • an at least one main battery sensor is provided.
  • the at least one main battery sensor is shown as two main battery sensors 710,720. These measure the voltage through main battery sensor 710 and the amps through main battery sensor 720 of the main battery 100. Also in the exemplary embodiment shown, an at least one auxiliary battery sensor is provided. The at least one auxiliary battery sensor is shown as two auxiliary sensors 730, 740. These measure the voltage, through auxiliary sensor 730, and the amperage, through auxiliary sensor 740, of the auxiliary battery 200. Additionally in the exemplary embodiment of Figure 8, an at least one switch position sensor 750 can be provided to sense the position and condition of the switching device 300. [00167] In each case the sensors 710-750 communicate with the controller 700 providing various parameter inputs.
  • FIG. 8B shows a circuit diagram of yet a further embodiment of the instant invention.
  • an indicator element 775 is utilized in conjunction with an automatic a controller 700 that provides fully automated functionality in the switching of the instant invention.
  • the at least one sensor includes a main battery sensor 710 and an auxiliary batter sensor 740 for sensing the condition of both batteries, respectively.
  • the automatic controller 700 through the main battery sensor 710, poles the main battery 100 to determine its condition. Polling can also be done at the auxiliary battery or simultaneously at either battery. If the automatic controller 700 determines that an abnormal discharge condition exists, the indicator element 775 is activated to indicate the abnormal condition.
  • the controller 700 automatically switches the switching device element 300 from a first operating position SI, in which the main battery 100 is coupled to the elecfrical system and the auxiliary battery 200 is coupled to the electrical system through a one-way charging diode 400, to a second operational position S2, where the main battery 100 is uncoupled from the elecfrical system and the auxiliary battery 200 is coupled to the elecfrical system in a manner that bypasses the one-way charging diode 400.
  • the controller 700 then monitors the condition of the auxiliary battery 200 through the at least one sensor, for instance the auxiliary battery sensor 740 in Figure 8B.
  • the automatic confroller 700 switches the system back to its first operating mode SI and both batteries are simultaneously charged.
  • additional sensors or sensors in other parts of the electrical system can monitor and report to the confroller as well. These help to confirm the restoration of normal operations.
  • the auxiliary battery sensor 740 will send this information to the automatic controller 700 and the controller 700 will then provide an indicator warning, for example through the at least one indicator element 775, for an operator.
  • the indicator element 775 can be visually based, or audibly based or both. It can be for example, but is not limited to, a klaxon, a horn, a light, a plurality of lights, an LCD panel, a simulated human voice,.a human voice, a light emitting diode, a plurality of light emitting diodes, or other suitable indicator.
  • the at least one indicator element 775 can be activated to provide an alert and/or provide notice of any or all battery conditions, an electrical system failure, or any other condition or state of the elecfrical system and/or the instant invention. This alert allows for the appropriate action to be taken in seeking assistance if a fault condition exists, as explained in relation to the methods described below.
  • FIG. 8C shows an electrical schematic of a still further embodiment of the instant invention.
  • the charging circuit includes an at least on Silicon Controlled Rectifier (SCR) 4000 to provide added safety and longevity for the auxiliary battery 200.
  • the embodiment utilizes a configuration similar to that of Figure 8B, save for the use of the SCR 4000.
  • the SCR 4000 communicates with the controller 700.
  • the at least one sensor includes auxiliary sensor 740. If the auxiliary battery 200 is being overcharged, based on the auxiliary sensor 740 input, the SCR 4000 as part of the charging circuit can be shut down by the controller 700 effectively shutting off the circuit pathway to the auxiliary battery 200, thus uncoupling the auxiliary battery 200 from the system in a controlled manner. This provides an additional factor of safety by preventing overcharge of the auxiliary battery 200 in the exemplary embodiment disclosed. Allowing for shutdown if an overcharge condition exists also improves the longevity of the auxiliary battery 200.
  • SCR Silicon Controlled Rectifier
  • Figure 9 shows circuit diagram for an auxiliary battery discharge cycling system for a still further exemplary embodiment of the instant invention.
  • the still further embodiment of the instant invention is provided that includes an auxiliary battery discharge cycling system 800.
  • This discharge cycling system can, for instance, be included as an automated auxiliary battery discharge cycling system, as shown in the exemplary circuit diagram of Figure 9.
  • the discharge cycling system can be incorporated as part of the controller 700 shown in figure 8 or as a separate manual discharge unit or through simple instructions to the operator to periodically run the vehicle in the second or auxiliary operational setting in an auxiliary setting for a short period of time.
  • the auxiliary battery discharge cycling system 800 would operate to ensure the longevity of the auxiliary battery 200 by periodically engaging the auxiliary battery 200 to start and/or operate the vehicle or equipment.
  • a system can include a timer 820 coupled to a switching device 300, the timer 820 periodically activating the switching device 300 which in turn switches the system to the auxiliary operational mode 360 for a short period of time, as described above in relation to figures 4a and 4b.
  • the system would operate to periodically provide for a slight discharge the auxiliary battery 200 in the auxiliary-operating mode 350. By providing for a slight discharge, the auxiliary battery 200 would be lower than its peak voltage and would then need to be recharged by the battery system in its first or normal operating mode, as described above.
  • auxiliary battery discharge cycling system 800 in its various forms would only operate for a short period of time so as not to accidentally run down the auxiliary battery 200.
  • the instant invention also acts as a discharge condition indicator. If an operator were to utilize the auxiliary battery 200 to start the vehicle or machinery, they would switch to the auxiliary circuit position 360 or S2 in the circuit diagrams. Once the vehicle started the user would return the switching device 300 to the normal or main operating position 350, engaging the circuit associated with the normal operating position, in order to charge both batteries to full capacity. If upon returning the switching device 300 to the normal operating position 350 the engine were to stop running, it would indicate a general operating failure in the electrical system, for instance a bad alternator or generator.
  • the operator would be able to return the switching device 300 to the auxiliary position 360 and engage the auxiliary battery 200 to supply the needed energy to start and run the vehicle or equipment from the auxiliary battery 200 allowing a certain amount of operating time, depending on the application, to obtain service.
  • the system allows for increased safety for a traveler, giving sufficient time, for instance, to get a car off the road and home or to a service station.
  • FIG. 10A shows a component diagram of a still further exemplary embodiment of the instant invention incorporating a wireless interface and wireless control input.
  • an additional wireless control system 1500 is provided in this embodiment.
  • the wireless control system 1500 may comprise, but is not limited to, one or more of the following: an at least one microprocessor, a signal transmitter, a signal receiver, a security protocol/encryption element, an indicator element and other typical control elements.
  • the wireless control system 1500 is coupled to electrical control circuit having the microprocessor confrolled switching device 7000 with an at least two operating positions and includes an at least one sensor to sense the condition of at least one of the batteries.
  • the wireless controller system 1500 monitors and detects various operating conditions of the batteries through the at least one sensor.
  • the at least one sensor can include, but is not limited to, any of an at least one main battery, at least one auxiliary battery, and an at least one switch sensor and/or any additional sensors.
  • the at least one sensor can also include any of the previously disclosed sensors or other sensors coupled to the electrical system (not shown) for sensing the condition of the electrical system.
  • the wireless confroller system 1500, through the at least one sensor monitors the condition of the instant invention and the battery system.
  • the wireless controller system 1500 can for example continuously monitor, but is not limited to, any of the following parameters with any of the at least one sensors: the auxiliary battery voltage, the main battery voltage, the auxiliary battery amperage, the main battery amperage, temperature, vibration, current, the switch state, the switch position, and the condition of various flags and various timers within the system.
  • the at least one sensor is shown as a main battery sensor 710 and an auxiliary battery sensor 740 that are provided to monitor the respective batteries. These sensors can for instance be, but are not limited to, VI sensors.
  • the microprocessor controlled switch 7000 and the main and auxiliary battery sensors 710, 740 are coupled to the wireless controller 1500 through an Input/Output (I/O) bus 7100.
  • the automatically controlled microprocessor switch 7000 is actuated by the wireless confroller system 1500 in response to input from a wireless input device 1550, as further described below.
  • a signal is sent wirelessly or via a conventional electrical coupling to an at least one indicator element 775, for example a light emitting diode (LED).
  • the at least one indicator element 775 may be coupled via a terrestrial coupling, for instance through a wire to an LED in a vehicle dashboard.
  • the indicator element 775 can be wirelessly coupled to the control system 1500, for instance by providing a transceiver in a wireless input device 1550 as shown in the exemplary embodiment of Figure 10A, where the indicator element 775 is an LED mounted on a key fob housing.
  • a signal is transmitted from the wireless control system 1500 to the wireless input device 1510 the input device transceiver mounted within the wireless input device 1550, here the key fob, which turns the indicator element 775, an LED light, on.
  • the wireless input device 1510 the input device transceiver mounted within the wireless input device 1550, here the key fob, which turns the indicator element 775, an LED light, on.
  • the indicator element 775 an LED light
  • any of the indicator elements previously discussed or other appropriate indicating devices may be used. An alert is thus provided and appropriate actions may then be taken to save power until the auxiliary battery 200 is required.
  • the auxiliary battery 200 can be engaged immediately or when power is required. In the exemplary embodiment of Figure 10 A, this is accomplished through the transceiver within the wireless input device 1510 that is activated, in this case a key fob with may also have a button that, once depressed, sends a signal to the wireless .controller system 1500.
  • the wireless controller 1500 signals the microprocessor confrolled switching device 7000 to switch from normal operating mode SI to auxiliary operating mode S2, isolating the main battery 100 and engaging the auxiliary battery 200.
  • the wireless controller 1500 continues to monitor the system through one of the at least one sensors, in this instance auxiliary battery sensor 740. It monitors the auxiliary battery 200 condition to detect whether it is being recharged. If a recharge condition is sensed, the wireless controller system 1500 instructs the microprocessor controlled switching device 7000 to switch back to a normal operating mode SI and sends a signal to the indicator element 775, turning it off. If an abnormal recharge condition or no recharge is sensed, the wireless controller 1500 can activate the at least one indicator element 775 to provide a second alert indicating an electrical fault condition. It can then switch to auxiliary mode and allow for the necessary service(s) to be obtained for the system.
  • auxiliary battery sensor 740 monitors the auxiliary battery 200 condition to detect whether it is being recharged. If a recharge condition is sensed, the wireless controller system 1500 instructs the microprocessor controlled switching device 7000 to switch back to a normal operating mode SI and sends a signal to the indicator element 775, turning it off. If an abnormal recharge condition or no recharge is sensed, the wireless controller 1500
  • FIG. 10B shows a component diagram of a yet another exemplary embodiment of the instant invention incorporating a network interfaced controller and network.
  • a "controller” or “network interfaceable confroller” refers to any apparatus that is capable of accepting a structured input, processing the structured input according to prescribed rules, and producing results of the processing as output. The output may or may not affect the operation of other devices.
  • Examples of a controller include: a microprocessor, a programmable logic chip, a digital signal processor, a microcontroller, a computer; a general purpose computer; a supercomputer; a mainframe; a super mini-computer; a mini-computer; a workstation; a micro-computer; a server; an interactive television; and any a hybrid combination, of a computer and an interactive television.
  • a computer also refers to two or more computers connected together via a network for transmitting or receiving information between the computers.
  • An example of such a network interfaceable controller includes a distributed control system for processing information via computers linked by a network.
  • a "network” refers to a number of controllers, computers, programmable logic devices, and/or network controllers and associated devices that are connected by a communication system and communication facilities to allow for communication.
  • a network may involve permanent connections such as cables or other terrestrial components or temporary connections such as those made through telephone, satellite, cellular systems, radio frequency transceivers, or other wireless communication links.
  • Examples of networks include: a cellular communications network, radio frequency networks, wireless data networks, an internet - such as the Internet; an intranet, a local area network (LAN); a wide area network (WAN); a controller area network (CAN), local interconnect network (LTN) and a combination of networks, such as an internet and an intranet. This includes specialized data monitoring networks, such as ONSTARTM and similar services.
  • FIG. 10B shows a component diagram for an exemplary embodiment of the instant invention utilizing a network interface.
  • a network interfaceable controller 3510 polls the condition of its sensors.
  • the network interfaceable controller 3510 is coupled to the battery system via an 1/0 port 7100.
  • the I/O port 7100 is robust, with sufficient carrying capacity to provide a full data stream to and from all of the sensors.
  • the network interfaceable controller 3510 may regularly or selectively report conditions via a network 5000, for instance a satellite network or terrestrial cellular network, to a Network Operation Center (NOC) 5010.
  • NOC 5010 monitors the condition of the sensed parameters of the network interface 3510, including the battery system condition. If the condition of the main battery 100, as measured by any appropriate parameters and sensed by an at least one sensor, falls below set parameter(s) an indicator alert is triggered and/or sent to the NOC 5010 via network 5000.
  • NOC Network Operation Center
  • auxiliary battery 200 can be shut down by the NOC 5010.
  • the NOC 5010 either after a response from an operator or upon its own volition, can switch the battery to the auxiliary battery 200 through switch position S2 to facilitate the power requirements of the electrical system.
  • the operator or the NOC 5010 can then confirm a satisfactory battery system condition.
  • verification can be used in setting the charging status of the system or in determining appropriate service need for such an application.
  • the NOC 5010 or the network interfaceable controller 3510 allows the auxiliary battery 200 to continue to discharge while sensing output from a recharging device (not shown), for example an alternator, to the switched controller 5010 through the at least one sensor. Based on the sensed output from the recharging device, the NOC 5010 can then switch the battery to the normal operating position SI and allow for normal operation SI or, if the alternator output is abnormal, the NOC 5010 can alert the operator to the electrical fault condition in the electrical system and return to the auxiliary operating position S2.
  • a recharging device for example an alternator
  • Figure 11 A shows a flow chart of the operational steps for an exemplary embodiment of the controller in the instant invention
  • the confroller, wireless confroller, or network interfaced controller polls the at least one sensor to determine the condition of a main battery.
  • a decision is made via the processing logic to determine if an abnormal operating parameter(s) is being reported on the main battery. If no abnormal operating parameters are present, the next step follows the negative branch of the decision loop and returns to step 2000. The repetition may include a delay between successive polling steps 2000 or additional sensing steps for additional sensors.
  • the network interfaced confroller can also immediately report or periodically report the normal operating status that is a result of the polling step 2000 via the network to the NOC. However, if an abnormal operating parameter is identified, the process moves along the affirmative branch of the decision loop to step 2200. At step 2200, the controller signals the operator or transmits to the NOC that an abnormal battery condition, for instance a low battery voltage, has been detected.
  • an abnormal battery condition for instance a low battery voltage
  • a confirmation signal is returned to the controller and received in step 2300 and the confroller, the NOC, or the operator initiates energy conservation steps. For instance, if the instant invention is used in a vehicle with headlights or similar lighting, this lighting could be turned off by the operator or remotely by the network. The invention may report these conservation steps to an operator, either immediately or upon the arrival of the operator at the system site.
  • step 2400 the confroller, network interfaced controller, or wireless controller activates the switching device, for instance a microprocessor confrolled switch, to switch the system from a first operational mode with the main battery engaged by the electrical system to an auxiliary operational mode, with the auxiliary battery being engaged by the electrical system and the main battery being isolated.
  • the switching device for instance a microprocessor confrolled switch
  • the system then confirms normal operation in step 2500.
  • the confroller then monitors the electrical generation of the system in step 2600.
  • the confroller analyzes the output of the generation and decision is made in step 2700. If the generation parameters are normal, the confroller can switch the switching device back to a main operational mode and engage the main battery in step 2800. If an abnormal generation parameter(s) is detected, an alert is sent to the operator and/or the NOC 5010 to indicate an elecfrical fault condition in step 2900
  • Figure 1 IB shows a flow chart of the operational steps for the controller in the instant invention including an automatic cycling method for cycling the auxiliary battery.
  • the automatic confroller provides for a cycling routine to keep the auxiliary battery in good condition.
  • Steps 2000-2900 are identical to those previously discussed in relation to Figure 1 IA, except that if normal operating parameters result in the polling step 2000, then an additional decision step 6000 is made for a friggering event for the cycling method steps. The friggering even may be based on operational parameters of the elecfrical system or on mileage or on time in service.
  • step 6100 switches the switching device into the auxiliary operating mode at S2 and switch to the auxiliary battery, as discussed previously.
  • the controller then monitors for adequate charge and operation of the auxiliary battery.
  • the system then continues to step 6400, running the electrical system on the auxiliary battery.
  • step 6500 the system checks discharge level of the auxiliary battery. After checking for discharge, the controller at step 6500 checks for the recharge of the auxiliary batter. The amount of recharging can be set by the confroller for a predetermined time or amount of energy. After recharging battery at step 6500, the system switches back to a normal operating position at step 6600. The controller then loops back to the polling step 2000 and begins the method again.
  • Figure 12A shows a further embodiment of the instant invention.
  • the embodiment of figure 12A shows a first operating position for an enhanced battery management system.
  • the charge balancing battery management system 8000 provides added flexibility by allowing the multiple battery system to selectively engage and or recharge either battery, thereby managing the charge balance of the system.
  • the charge balance battery management system provides a significant benefit over previous designs.
  • the charge balancing battery management system 8000 incorporates some of the same features as the auxiliary battery discharge system discussed in relation to Figure 9, but extends the manner and flexibility for management of the battery conditions.
  • the battery management system 8000 like the auxiliary battery discharge system, can selectively control the discharge of either battery and, additionally, the charge balancing battery management system 8000 can selectively control the charging of each battery to maintain charge balance throughout the multiple battery system.
  • the charge balancing battery management system 8000 can thus operate to prevent discharge and thermal runaway conditions or similar disadvantageous operating conditions when they are sensed, but the charge balancing battery management system 8000 allows this upon detection of either condition in any of the batteries in the multiple battery system.
  • An at least one sensor 7000 shown here as two VI sensors 7001, 7003, couples to the charge balancing battery management system 8000 providing information on the condition of the batteries, vehicle, and/or electrical system.
  • the battery charge balancing battery management system 8000 is coupled to an at least one switching device 300 with an at least two switch positions.
  • the at least one switching device 300 has, but is certainly not limited to, switching positions SI, S2 and S3.
  • Additionally coupled to the charge balancing battery management system 8000 is a one-way charging circuit 400.
  • An at least one charge- balancing relay 2 follows the one way charging circuit 400.
  • the at least one recharge selection mechanism is herein depicted as recharge balancing relay 2, it should be noted that the recharge selection mechanism can for example also be, but is not limited to, an at least one MOSFET device or similar solid state device providing similar electrical path selection capabilities
  • the at least one charge-balancing relay 2 moves between an at least two relay positions, in this exemplary embodiment this is depicted, bud does not limit the invention, as a first relay position RI and a second relay position R2.
  • the at least one switching device 300 and the at least one recharge balancing relay 2 are selectively coupled to the main battery 100 and the auxiliary battery 200 as shown in each of Figures 12A - 12D by the controller 700 as part of the battery management system 8000.
  • the at least one sensor 7000 here shown as the two VI sensors 7001, 7003, in this exemplary embodiment, provide input to the charge balancing battery management system 8000 regarding the condition of both the main and auxiliary batteries 100, 200.
  • a single auxiliary battery is depicted, multiple auxiliary batteries may be provided without departing from the spirit of the invention.
  • the at least one switching device 300 is shown as a single switching device and the at least one recharge balancing relay 2 is shown as a single recharge balancing relay, multiple switching devices and relays may be provided without departing from the spirit of the invention.
  • switch positions SI and S2 and relay positions RI and R2 these are provided only as non-limiting examples.
  • the charge balancing battery management system 8000 through confroller 700 switches the at least one switching device 300 and at least one recharge balancing relay 2.
  • the switching device 300 is in position SI operating the electrical system from the main battery 100.
  • the at least one recharge balancing relay 2 is in relay position RI providing the charge through the one-way charging circuit 400 to the auxiliary battery 200.
  • the main battery 100 is operating the electrical system and the auxiliary battery 200 is being charged.
  • Figure 12b shows a second operating configuration of the exemplary embodiment of Figure 12A.
  • the at least one switching device 300 is in switch position SI again running the electrical system from the main battery 100.
  • the at least one recharge balancing relay 2 is in relay position R2 closing the circuit between the one way charging circuit 400 and the main battery 100.
  • the electrical flow to the auxiliary battery 200 ceases. This condition would result when an overcharge or thermal runway or similar adverse condition is detected. This effectively prevents charge from entering the auxiliary battery 200 and causing damage to the battery.
  • the system may also switch operating configurations to discharge the auxiliary batter 200 in a manner similar to the auxiliary battery discharge system discussed above in relation to Figure 9.
  • Figure 12C shows a still further operating configuration of the embodiment disclosed in figure 12A.
  • the charge balancing battery management system 8000 through controller 700 puts the at least one switching device 300 in position S2 engaging the auxiliary battery 200 to operate the elecfrical system.
  • the controller 700 also sets the at least one recharge balancing relay 2 to relay position R2, coupling the at least one charging circuit 400 to the main battery 100 and providing unidirectional charge to the main battery 100.
  • the electrical system is being operated by and charging the auxiliary battery 200 as shown.
  • Figure 12D shows a still further operating configuration of the exemplary embodiment of Figure 12A.
  • the at least one switching device 300 is again set to switch position S2.
  • the at least one recharge balancing relay 2 is in relay position RI coupling the at least one charging circuit 400 to auxiliary battery 200.
  • the electrical system is operating on the auxiliary battery 200 without charging the main battery 100.
  • the multiple battery system would enter this configuration if the charge balancing battery management system 8000 sensed a thermal runaway or similar adverse condition in the main battery 100 or if the main battery 100 were damaged and not holding a charge.
  • This operational mode could be accompanied by an audio or visual alarm similar to that described in relation to Figure 11.

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  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Charge And Discharge Circuits For Batteries Or The Like (AREA)
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Abstract

La présente invention concerne un système de batteries multiples et un système de batteries multiples commandé par réseau. L'invention a également pour objet une batterie principale présentant une sortie principale positive et une sortie principale négative, associée à au moins une batterie auxiliaire présentant au moins une sortie auxiliaire positive et au moins une sortie auxiliaire négative. L'invention concerne aussi un circuit électrique principal présentant au moins un dispositif de commutation ayant au moins deux positions de fonctionnement. Les deux positions de fonctionnement couplent de façon sélective la batterie principale et la/les batterie(s) auxiliaire(s) à la borne positive commune. Dans la première des positions de fonctionnement, une charge électrique est fournie à la fois à la batterie principale et à la batterie auxiliaire/aux batteries auxiliaires. L'invention fait également intervenir un dispositif de commande qui est couplé au circuit électrique principal et réalise la commutation du/des dispositif(s) de commutation en se basant sur la sortie d'au moins un capteur.
PCT/US2004/025842 2003-08-11 2004-08-09 Systeme de batteries multiples, systeme de gestion de batteries multiples, systeme de fixation de batteries auxiliaires, et systeme de batteries multiples commande par reseau WO2005020348A2 (fr)

Priority Applications (6)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
MXPA06001615A MXPA06001615A (es) 2003-08-11 2004-08-09 Sistema de bateria multiple, sistema de manejo de bateria multiple, sistema de fijacion de la bateria auxiliar y sistema de bateria multiple controlado por red.
JP2006523299A JP2007513459A (ja) 2003-08-11 2004-08-09 複数電池システム、複数電池管理システム、補助電池付帯システム、及び回線制御された複数電池システム
CA002535504A CA2535504A1 (fr) 2003-08-11 2004-08-09 Systeme de batteries multiples, systeme de gestion de batteries multiples, systeme de fixation de batteries auxiliaires, et systeme de batteries multiples commande par reseau
EP04780646A EP1671380A2 (fr) 2003-08-11 2004-08-09 Systeme de batteries multiples, systeme de gestion de batteries multiples, systeme de fixation de batteries auxiliaires, et systeme de batteries multiples commande par reseau
AU2004302507A AU2004302507A1 (en) 2003-08-11 2004-08-09 Multiple battery system, multiple battery management system, auxiliary battery attachment system, and network controlled multiple battery system
BRPI0412958-0A BRPI0412958A (pt) 2003-08-11 2004-08-09 sistema de bateria múltipla, sistema de gerenciamento de bateria múltipla, sistema de anexação de bateria auxiliar e sistema de bateria múltipla controlada por rede

Applications Claiming Priority (4)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US10/604,703 2003-08-11
US10/604,703 US7339347B2 (en) 2003-08-11 2003-08-11 Apparatus and method for reliably supplying electrical energy to an electrical system
US10/708,739 US7388349B2 (en) 2003-08-11 2004-03-22 Multiple battery switching method and apparatus
US10/708,739 2004-03-22

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JP (1) JP2007513459A (fr)
KR (1) KR20060084846A (fr)
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BR (1) BRPI0412958A (fr)
CA (1) CA2535504A1 (fr)
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DE102012203585A1 (de) * 2012-03-07 2013-09-12 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Konfigurierbare Akkumulatoreinheit und Verfahren zum Betreiben einer Akkumulatoreinheit
CN104037371A (zh) * 2014-06-26 2014-09-10 湘电重型装备有限公司 一种矿用电动轮自卸车低压电源装置
EP3570343A4 (fr) * 2017-05-08 2020-01-22 LG Chem, Ltd. Élément de batterie, module de batterie, bloc-batterie le comprenant, et véhicule
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KR101697452B1 (ko) * 2013-04-30 2017-01-17 알리스 에코 에이알케이(케이만) 코. 엘티디. 대형 전기차 전력 구조체 및 교번-하이버네이션 배터리 관리 및 제어 방법
JP2015097463A (ja) * 2013-11-15 2015-05-21 日立化成株式会社 複合蓄電システム
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Cited By (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2296214A1 (fr) * 2009-09-09 2011-03-16 Hoppecke Advanced Battery Technology GmbH Dispositif destiné à la surveillance d'un accumulateur d'énergie
DE102012203585A1 (de) * 2012-03-07 2013-09-12 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Konfigurierbare Akkumulatoreinheit und Verfahren zum Betreiben einer Akkumulatoreinheit
CN104037371A (zh) * 2014-06-26 2014-09-10 湘电重型装备有限公司 一种矿用电动轮自卸车低压电源装置
US10576840B2 (en) 2016-07-26 2020-03-03 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Battery system
EP3570343A4 (fr) * 2017-05-08 2020-01-22 LG Chem, Ltd. Élément de batterie, module de batterie, bloc-batterie le comprenant, et véhicule
US11018391B2 (en) 2017-05-08 2021-05-25 Lg Chem, Ltd. Battery cell, battery module, and battery pack and vehicle including the same
CN111186336A (zh) * 2018-11-14 2020-05-22 罗伯特·博世有限公司 电池组系统和用于运行电池组系统的方法

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AU2004302507A1 (en) 2005-03-03
MXPA06001615A (es) 2006-07-03
EP1671380A2 (fr) 2006-06-21
JP2007513459A (ja) 2007-05-24
BRPI0412958A (pt) 2006-09-26
CA2535504A1 (fr) 2005-03-03
KR20060084846A (ko) 2006-07-25

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