Methods and systems for in-situ leakage current testing of cells in multi-cell battery packs
US11698416B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 13, 2021 |
| Grant date | Jul 11, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 13, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02E60/10
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Described methods and systems provide in-situ leakage current testing of battery cells in battery packs even while these packs operate. Specifically, an external electrical current is discontinued through a tested battery cell using a node controller, to which the tested battery cell is independently connected. Changes in the open circuit voltage (OCV) are then detected by the node controller for a set period time. Any voltage change, associated with taking the tested cell offline, is compensated by one or more other cells in the battery pack. The overall pack current and voltage remains substantially unchanged (based on the application demands), while the in-situ leakage current testing is initiated, performed, and/or completed. The OCV changes are then used to determine the leakage current of the tested cell and, in some examples, to determine the state of health of this cell and/or adjust the operating parameters of this cell.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.