Equalizer system and method for series connected energy storing devices

Patent 5952815 Issued on September 14, 1999. Estimated Expiration Date:

July 25, 2017. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.

Abstract Claims Description Full Text

Patent References

2812376

3193412

3390014

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3630783

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3793501

3899355

Lithium-iodine battery
Patent #: 3937635
Issued on: 02/10/1976
Inventor: Mead , et al.

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Patent #: 4028479
Issued on: 06/07/1977
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Inventors

Assignee

Application

No. 900607 filed on 07/25/1997

US Classes:

320/116, SERIALLY CONNECTED BATTERIES OR CELLS320/122, Bypassable battery cell320/162With detection of current or voltage amplitude

Examiners

Primary: Wong, Peter S.
Assistant: Toatley, Gregory J. Jr.

Attorney, Agent or Firm

Mueting, Raasch & Gebhardt, P.A.

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International Class

H02J 007/00

Abstract

An apparatus and method for regulating the charge voltage of a number of electrochemical cells connected in series is disclosed. Equalization circuitry is provided to control the amount of charge current supplied to individual electrochemical cells included within the series string of electrochemical cells without interrupting the flow of charge current through the series string. The equalization circuitry balances the potential of each of the electrochemical cells to within a pre-determined voltage setpoint tolerance during charging, and, if necessary, prior to initiating charging. Equalization of cell potentials may be effected toward the end of a charge cycle or throughout the charge cycle. Overcharge protection is also provided for each of the electrochemical cells coupled to the series connection. During a discharge mode of operation in accordance with one embodiment, the equalization circuitry is substantially non-conductive with respect to the flow of discharge current from the series string of electrochemical cells. In accordance with another embodiment, equalization of the series string of cells is effected during a discharge cycle.