CZ20003605A3 - Battery having built-in regulator - Google Patents

Description

Batteries having a built-in regulator

Technical field

The present invention relates to batteries, and in particular is directed to batteries having a built-in controller for extending battery operating time.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Consumers use primary batteries and rechargeable batteries (secondary batteries) in portable electronic devices such as radios, compact disc players, cameras, camcorders, mobile phones, electronic games, toys, handheld text receivers and computer devices. After the operating time, the primary battery is usually discarded. Typically, the typical primary battery operating time allows approximately 40% to 70% of the total accumulated battery capacity to be used. After using part of the originally stored energy, the battery cannot supply the required voltage to power the electronic circuit. After the useful life of these batteries, consumers usually discard the batteries, although such used batteries still contain approximately 30% to 60% of their originally accumulated capacity. Therefore, extending the operating time of the primary battery by allowing safe, deeper discharges will limit the amount of waste by allowing electronic devices to use more of the originally accumulated capacity before it is discarded.

However, the overall life of a rechargeable battery primarily depends on the number and efficiency of the charging cycles. Rechargeable batteries can be recharged and reused after each discharge cycle. As with battery primates, this type of battery cannot supply enough voltage to power the electronic circuit after utilizing a percentage of the original battery's accumulated capacity. Accordingly, each discharge cycle of the rechargeable battery can be extended when deeper battery discharge is achieved. However, the discharging level of a rechargeable battery affects the number and efficiency of future rechargeable batteries. In general, as the charging depth of the rechargeable electrochemical cells increases, it can be

The number of charge cycles that such a rechargeable electrochemical cell can undergo is reduced. However, the optimum discharge characteristics of particular types of rechargeable electrochemical cells are considerably different. For example, in a cadmium-nickel ("NiCd") battery, deep discharging is preferred, as otherwise the battery would develop a "memory" effect if charged without being discharged, resulting in reduced capacity for future charging. However, a deep discharge of the lithium battery could damage the electrochemical cells. Overall, the operating time of the rechargeable electrochemical cell can be extended better based on the controlled discharge and charge cycles of a particular cell, so that the total number of charge cycles can be maximized and the rate of energy obtained during each discharge cycle is also optimized.

In addition, consumers consistently require smaller and lighter portable electronic devices. One of the primary barriers to manufacturing these smaller and lighter devices is the size and weight of the batteries required to power such devices. In fact, the faster and more complex an electronic circuit is, the more these devices require more power than before, and therefore the battery requirements are even greater. However, consumers will not accept more powerful and miniaturized devices if improved functionality and speed require replacement or recharge of batteries more frequently. Therefore, in order to assemble faster and more complex electronic devices without shortening their useful life, these electronic devices have a need for more efficient use of batteries and / or their own batteries have a need for more use of stored energy.

Some more expensive electronic devices include a voltage regulator circuit, such as a DC converter (e.g., a DC / DC converter) in devices for varying and / or stabilizing the battery output voltage. In these devices, several separate cells are connected in series and the total voltage of these batteries is converted by the converter to the voltage required to load the circuit. The converter may extend the battery operating time by decreasing the battery output voltage at the beginning of the battery discharge, where the battery would otherwise provide a higher voltage and thus more energy than the circuit under load, and / or by increasing the battery output voltage at the last battery discharge where the battery would otherwise be depleted because the voltage is lower than the circuit under load.

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However, the technical approach of applying a converter to an electronic device has several drawbacks. The first drawback is that placement of converters in electronic devices is relatively expensive because each device manufacturer has specific circuit arrangements that are produced in relatively limited quantities and thus require higher individual costs. The second drawback is that battery suppliers do not have the ability to control the type of converter that will be used in combination with a particular battery. Converters are therefore not optimally prepared for the specific electrochemical properties of individual types of electrochemical cells. The third problem is that different cell types, such as alkaline and lithium cells, have different electrochemical properties and rated voltages and therefore cannot be easily interchanged. In addition, converters take up usable space in electronic devices. Instead of more powerful DC converters such as DC / DC converters, some electronic devices may also use linear controllers. In addition, electronic devices containing direct current converters can generate electromagnetic interference (EMI), which can adversely affect a downstream circuitry such as a radio frequency (RF) transmitter in an electronic device. However, due to the placement of the converter in the battery, the EMI source may be further away from other electronic means that are sensitive to EMI effects and / or may be shielded by the conductive battery cover.

Another problem associated with commonly used converters is that these converters typically require a larger number of electrochemical cells, especially with respect to alkaline, zinc, cadmium (NiCd) batteries, metal hydrate containing nickel (NIMH) the term "nickel metal hydrate") and batteries containing silver oxide in order to provide sufficient voltage to drive the converter, after which the voltage may drop to the level required by the electronic device. Thus, due to the input voltage of the converter, the electronic device must contain several electrochemical cells, even if the electronic device itself may require only one cell to operate. This results in an undesirable increase in dimensions and weights, making it impossible to further miniaturize the electronic devices.

Therefore, there is a need for optimal use of the accumulated charge of a rechargeable battery and for optimizing the depth of discharge before recharging the battery in order to maximize its operating time. By designing batteries that provide greater use of their accumulated energy, they can use electronic devices

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smaller batteries or fewer batteries, creating the conditions for further reducing the size of portable electronic devices.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a battery that exhibits a longer operating time based on optimum use of the accumulated charge of a primate battery or a rechargeable battery prior to charging. The battery has a built-in regulator that includes a converter capable of operating below the voltage threshold of typical electronic devices. The controller more efficiently regulates the voltage of the electrochemical cell and allows controlled discharge or optimum depth of discharge in order to extend battery operating time. The controller is preferably mounted on a mixed-type silicone chip, the design of which is typically adapted to operate 8 with a particular type of electrochemical cell, such as an alkaline cell, cadmium (NiCd) cell, metal hydrate (NiMH) cell, lithium cell , a lithium ion cell, a sealed lead-acid cell ("MLA" for "sealed lead-acid"), a cell containing silver oxide or a hybrid cell, optionally with a specific electronic device.

The controller monitors and controls the power supply to the load circuit to optimally extend the battery operating time, and this monitoring control activity of the controller is performed by (1) turning the DC / DC converter on and off; (2) maintaining the minimum required output voltage at a time when the input voltage is less than the voltage that allows the operation of typical electronic devices; (3) reducing the battery output impedance; (4) determining the optimum discharge depth; (5) generating an optimal discharge sequence; (6) amplifying the discharge current that the electrochemical cell can provide without a controller; (7) providing a large discharge current within the safety limits of the cell, even when the current exceeds the maximum output current of the controller, using a bypass method; (8) measuring the remaining cell capacity; and (9) transmitting the working control signals to the capacity / stroke indicator

In a preferred embodiment, a single controller is built into the interior of the primary or recurrently charged battery pack (e.g., a standard 9 volt battery) with multiple cells. This feature of the present invention provides several significant advantages compared to the present invention.

-5φ with the controller placed in an electronic device. First, it provides the creator of the battery design with the ability to use specific electrical characteristics of a particular type of electrochemical cell. Second, the H-device requires the application of a converter only for a battery containing a particular type of electrochemical cell (e.g. Hthium) to vary and / or stabilize the battery output voltage and not for a battery containing another type of dectrochemical cell (e.g. NiCd, SLA) and one unit with a battery that requires a converter (for example, a Hthium battery), then the electronic device can be constructed without a DC / DC converter. This will allow the construction of smaller circuit designs and will prevent losses associated with the converter having a negative effect on a battery that does not need any converter.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the controller is incorporated within a single cell battery pack, such as a AAA, AA, C, D or prism battery, or within each cell of a multi cell battery pack such as a prism battery or a standard 9 volt battery. This feature of the present invention provides the aforementioned advantages associated with placing a single controller in a multi-cell battery, and additionally provides other obvious advantages. First, it allows the controller to be compatible with a particular type of electrochemical cell, taking advantage of the particular electrochemical reactions of such a cell. Secondly, it allows batteries having different types of electrochemical cells to be used interchangeably by either varying or stabilizing the output voltage or internal impedance for the purpose of meeting the requirements of electronic devices that are designed to operate from standard batteries. For example, both of these benefits have a high-performance Hthium cell that meets the electrical and hermetic closure requirements of a standard AA battery by using a built-in regulator to reduce the cell's rated voltage from about 2.8 to about 4.0 volts to about 1 5 voku. By utilizing the higher voltage of the Hthium cell, the designer can significantly extend the battery operating time. Applying the controller to each cell of the battery also provides more effective control over the cell than ever before. The controller can monitor and control the discharge conditions in each primary electrochemical cell and can detect the complete depletion of each cell before the electronic device shuts down. The controller may also monitor or control the discharge cycle in each rechargeable electrochemical cell to determine whether the cell discharge reaches φ φφφ · · *

A level that provides the longest possible battery life and improves cell safety while preventing unwanted phenomena such as memory effects, short circuits, or damaging deep discharges. The controller may also directly monitor and control the charge cycle of each rechargeable electrochemical cell that is in the battery to prevent undesirable conditions such as overcharging or wiring, and to extend cycle life and improve battery safety. The charge status of an individual cell can also be reported to the consumer directly (via visual, acoustic, vibration, etc.) or via the interface of a “smart” device.

The controllers also allow universal use of the batteries of the present invention. The batteries of the present invention provide advantages over known batteries regardless of whether they are used in electrical, electromechanical or electronic devices. In the case of electrical, electromechanical or electronic devices or devices, the batteries of the present invention will maintain their peak performance until the very end of the battery's operating time. When using the controller together with the battery, the end of the actual voltage against the discharge time curve would be profiled in such a way that it could emulate a typical discharge profile (without the immediate end of operation).

Controller chips can also be manufactured more economically, as a large volume of battery sales allows cheaper chip production than is the case with the unique controller or converter designs that can be manufactured separately for each type of electronic device.

In a preferred embodiment, the DC / DC converter converts a high efficiency, medium power converter with a very low input voltage that utilizes pulse width modulation or phase shift modulation and a low load pulse jump control scheme with a start-stop control oscillator scheme.

Other features and advantages of the present invention are described with reference to an explanation of a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS When this specification ends with claims that specifically emphasize and claim in a distinct manner the subject matter which is considered to be the present invention, ·· ·· ·· v ·· · «« «« ··

It is believed that this invention will be more readily understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Giant. 1 is a perspective view of the construction of a typical cylindrical battery.

Giant. 2 is a perspective view of the construction of another typical cylindrical battery. Giant. 3 is a perspective view of the construction of yet another typical cylindrical battery.

Giant. 4 is a block diagram of a battery according to the present invention.

Ohr. 4A is a block diagram of one preferred embodiment of the battery shown in FIG. 4.

Ohr. 4B is a block diagram of another preferred embodiment of the battery shown in FIG. 4.

Giant. 4C is a block diagram of yet another preferred embodiment of the battery shown in FIG. 4.

Giant. 5A shows a partially exploded, cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a battery according to the present invention.

Ol » ¹ . 5B shows a partially exploded, cross-sectional view of another preferred embodiment of a battery according to the present invention.

Giant. 5C shows a partially exploded, cross-sectional view of yet another preferred embodiment of a battery according to the present invention.

Giant. 6 is a perspective view, partially in cross-section, of a preferred embodiment of a multi-cell battery according to the present invention.

Giant. 7 is a block diagram of another preferred embodiment of a battery according to the present invention.

Giant. 8 is a block diagram of yet another preferred embodiment of a battery according to the present invention.

Giant. 9 is a block diagram of another preferred embodiment of a battery according to the present invention.

Giant. 9A is a schematic diagram of an embodiment that includes a battery feature according to a preferred embodiment of the battery illustrated in FIG. 9.

Giant. 9B is a schematic diagram of an embodiment that includes a battery feature according to a preferred embodiment of the battery shown in FIG. 9.

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Giant. 10 is a schematic diagram of yet another embodiment of a battery according to the present invention.

Giant. 11 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a battery according to the present invention. Giant. 12 is a schematic diagram of yet another embodiment of a battery according to the present invention.

Giant. 13 is a combination of a block diagram and a basic diagram of another embodiment of a battery according to the present invention.

Giant. 14 is a graph of characteristic discharge curves of a typical battery and two different, preferred embodiments of a battery according to the present invention.

Giant. 15 is a combination of a block diagram and a basic diagram of yet another embodiment of a battery according to the present invention.

Giant. 16 is a block diagram of one embodiment of the auxiliary charging controller shown in FIG. 15.

Giant. 17 is a block diagram of another embodiment of the auxiliary charge controller illustrated in FIG. 15.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to single-cell and multi-cell batteries. The batteries of the present invention may be either primary or rechargeable batteries. The term "primary" is used in this application to refer to a battery or electrochemical cell that is intended to be disposed of after the usable, accumulated electrical capacity has been exhausted (i.e., it is not intended to be recharged or otherwise used). In this application, the terms "rechargeable" and "secondary" are used interchangeably to refer to a battery or electrochemical cell that is intended for at least one recharge after exhausting the usable accumulated electrical capacity (i.e., it is intended for at least one recharge) . The term "consumer" in this application refers to a battery that is intended for use in an electronic or electrical device that a consumer purchases or uses. The term "single cell" refers to a battery that has a single electrochemical cell in a single container, such as AA, AAA, C or D battery types, or a single cell in a multi-cell battery (such as a standard 9 volt battery or mobile phone or "laptop" computer).

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-9The battery term used in this application refers to a housing having terminals and a single electrochemical cell, or a housing having terminals and at least a total of two or more electrochemical cells (e.g., a standard 9 volt battery or mobile phone battery) or laptop laptop). The electrochemical cells need not be completely enclosed in the housing if each cell has an oily, separate, sealed package. For example, a portable phone battery may comprise two or more electrochemical cells, each having its own, separate, sealed package, and these cells are co-located in a shrinkable, wrapping, plastic material that keeps the individual cells together but may not completely cover separate, sealed cell packagings.

As used herein, the term "hybrid battery" refers to a multi-cell battery containing two or more than two galvanic cells, at least two of which have different galvanic mechanisms, such as photoelectric, fuel, thermal, electrochemical, electromechanical, etc., or different electrode, different electrode pairs, or different electrolyte. In this application, the term "battery cell" refers generally to gatvanic cells that are used in a battery and which include electrochemical cells. Also galvanic or electrogalvam cell is used in a replaceable way and describes various physical mechanisms of electricity generation, including chemical. In addition, the hybrid cell may include additional energy storage components that enhance the cell voltage and current discharge characteristics of the cell, including a supercapacitor or a co-capacitor, a high efficiency inductor, or a low capacity secondary cell. Hybrid cell components may be fabricated to replace idle cell structure components such as labels, seals, hollow outlets, etc.

As used herein, the term "regulator" refers to a circuit that receives at least one input signal and produces at least one output signal that is a function of the input signal. The terms "DC / DC converter ¹¹ or" converter "are used interchangeably in this application and refer to a pulse-type DC converter such as a vibratory-controlled DC / DC converter, also known as a DC / AC converter that converts the input DC voltage. to the DC output voltage. DC / DC converters are power electronic circuits that often produce a regulated output. The converter may generate an increased voltage level, a reduced voltage level, or a regulated voltage at approximately the same level. There are a number of different types of DC / DC converters in this art. Although it is less advantageous

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The present invention recognizes the possibility of using known converters or linear regulators as a substitute for the preferred converters described in this application and having the capability of operating at low voltage levels below levels permitting operation of electronic devices.

The "closing" voltage "of an electronic device is a voltage level below which an electrical or electronic device cannot operate. In this sense, the "reverse voltage" depends on the device, which means that this level depends on the minimum operating voltage of the device (on the functional end point) or the frequency of operation (for example, it must have the capability to charge the capacitor over a given period of time). Most electronic devices have a reverse voltage ranging from about 1 volt to about 1.2 volts, and some electronic devices have a reverse voltage as low as about 0.9 volts. Electrical devices having mechanical moving parts, such as electric clocks, motors, and electromechanical relays, also exhibit a reverse voltage that is necessary to generate an electrical current that is sufficient to generate the necessary magnetic field to move the mechanical components. Other electrical devices such as strobe lights generally do not have a reverse voltage device, but as the source battery voltage drops, the output electrical energy also decreases (as reflected, for example, in the light output of the bulb).

If the electrochemical cell powers a device having a reverse voltage, then the electrochemical cell is "exposed" to the reverse voltage of the device in which the battery must produce an output voltage that is greater than or equal to the reverse voltage of the device, or otherwise. However, when two or more than two series-connected electrochemical cells supply a particular device, when they are electrically connected between the positive input terminal and the negative input terminal, each electrochemical cell is "exposed" to a portion of the reverse voltage of the instrument. As an example, if two electrochemical cells are connected in series and supply the device, each cell is "exposed" to one half of the device's reverse voltage. When three electrochemical cells are connected in series and supply the device, each electrochemical cell is "exposed" to one third of the device's reverse voltage. Thus, if the U cells "n" are connected in series and supply the device, each cell is "exposed" to a portion of the reverse voltage of the device, which can be defined as the reverse voltage divided by "n", where j is entirely pure. However, if two or more than two parallel connected electrochemical cells supply an electronic device, then each cell is "exposed" to the full reverse voltage • φφφ «ί« i

-11 φ φ φ přístroje přístroje · · přístroje přístroje · · · · · · přístroje přístroje Moreover, this application states that if two or more electrochemical cells are connected in series and this serial connection is further connected in parallel with one or more electrochemical cells, then each series connected cell is "exposed" to the same part of the shutter. since only the series-connected electrochemical cells would be the electrochemical cells that supply the device.

One feature of the present invention is the extension of the "operating time" of the battery. In the case of a primary battery, the terms "battery operating time" and "battery run time" are interchangeable and are defined as the time period of the discharge cycle that ends with the output voltage dropping below the minimum operating voltage of the battery supplying device. While the "cell run time" depends on the electrochemical cell itself, which means that all of the cell's electrochemical energy is pumped, the "battery run time" depends on the device or device in which it is used. An electronic device having a reverse voltage of, for example, approximately 1 voh will be turned off when the battery output voltage drops below 1 voh, although at least 50% of the accumulated energy capacity may remain in the electrochemical cell. In this case, the “battery run time” has expired because such a battery can no longer provide the voltage level required by the operation of the electronic device and the battery as a whole is discarded. However, the "cell run time" did not expire because there is the rest of the electrochemical energy in that cell.

However, a rechargeable battery has multiple charge / discharge cycles. In the case of rechargeable batteries, the 'cyclic life' is defined as the number of charge / discharge cycles that can be achieved by the 'run time' of a rechargeable battery.

The time period of one discharge cycle, which ends with the output voltage of the rechargeable battery dropping below the shutdown voltage of the battery supplying apparatus or device, or the discharge is stopped to provide a longer battery life cycle. However, the "battery operating time" of a rechargeable battery indicates the total number of charge / discharge cycles during which each discharge cycle has an optimal run time. “Running time

The cell 'of the rechargeable electrochemical cell represents the period of time required for the cell to reach an optimal discharge depth under load conditions during one discharge cycle of such cell. As mentioned above, the "cyclic life" of a rechargeable battery is a function of the depth of discharge that the rechargeable cell undergoes. With increasing depth of discharge also ··· 44 «

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-12 extends battery run time, but cyclic battery life and operating time are shorter. Conversely, as the depth of discharge decreases, the battery run time is also reduced, but the cyclic life and operating time of the battery is increased. However, a shorter battery life is not desirable in terms of the usability of the device or device. Therefore, for each particular electrochemical and structural design of a rechargeable battery, the ratio between the depth of discharge and the cyclic life can be optimized to allow for an extended battery life. For example, one way of optimizing battery operating time may be by comparing the accumulated energy supply that can be defined as the product of the cyclic life (i.e., the number of cycles) achieved at a particular discharge depth and the amount of energy that is obtained during each of these cycles.

The terms "useful life of the electrochemical cell" or "useful life of the cell" used in this application are also used regardless of whether it is a primary cell or a rechargeable cell and correspond to the battery run time in which "useful life of the cell “Represents a period of time after which the cell is no longer usable in a particular discharge cycle since such an electrochemical cell can no longer provide sufficient voltage to supply the device. If the "battery run time" of a single cell battery is extended or shortened, then the "useful battery life" and "battery run time" necessarily also extend or shorten accordingly. In addition, the terms "battery run time" of a single-cell battery and the "useful battery life" are interchangeable in the sense that, if the "battery run time" is extended or shortened, the "useful lifetime of article ". However, in contrast, the term "useful cell life" of a particular electrochemical cell in a multi-cell battery is not necessarily interchangeable with the term "battery run time" associated with a multi-cell battery, since specific electrochemical cells may still have the useful life. multi-cell batteries. Similarly, if the "cell run time" of a particular electrochemical cell in a multi-cell battery is extended or shortened, the "battery run time" does not necessarily increase because the "battery run time" may depend on the voltage of one cell. or several other cells in the battery.

In this patent application, the terms " optimum discharge depth " or " optimum discharge depth " are used to denote the residual cell capacity that maximizes the number of cells. ·· ··· ·· * ·

-13 charge / discharge cycles and optimizes the run time of each discharge cycle of the cell. The operating time of a rechargeable electrochemical cell can be drastically reduced when the cell discharges below the "optimal discharge depth" of the cell (for example, below a voltage level of approximately 1.6 volts for an SLA cell). For example, deep discharging of a lithium ion cell may damage the cell and reduce the number and efficiency of future cell charging cycles. However, it is preferred that the cadmiumicel ("NiCd") electrochemical cell may discharge deeper in order to prevent the occurrence of "memory" effects that shorten the life of the cell and exhibit a shorter run time of such a cell in future discharge cycles.

The terms "electrically coupled" and "electrically coupled" and "electrically coupled" refer to connections or wiring that allow a continuous conducting of electrical current. The terms "electrically coupled" and "electrical connection" refer to coupling links through which an electronic device, such as a transistor or diode, is incorporated into the path of an electric current line. In this application, 'electronic connections' are considered to be sub-names related to 'electrical connections' and therefore, while each 'electronic connection' is considered an electrical connection, not every 'electrical connection' is considered an 'electronic connection'.

The battery of the present invention comprises one or more controllers that extend the battery operating time by optimizing the energy release in the discharge cycle of the primary or rechargeable battery and, in the case of the rechargeable battery, by maximizing the number of discharge cycles. For example, in one embodiment of the present invention, the controller may perform one or more of the following functions: (1) discharge control, (2) charge control, (3) emergency control performing cell disconnection in case of short circuit, reverse polarity, incorrect charge (primary cell) or providing continuity of the controller when the load requires for safety reasons battery current that exceeds the normal supply ratio of the controller, (4) signaling the remaining cell capacity (s) and critical levels of remaining power. The electrochemical cell (s) may be packaged in either single or multi cell batteries. MultiCell batteries may contain two or more electrochemical cells of the same type or may contain or more than two different types of electrochemical cells in a hybrid battery. The multi-cell batteries of the present invention may comprise electrochemical cells that are connected in series or parallel configuration. Controllers) Single-cell batteries with φ. Φ.

14 may be electrically connected in series and / or parallel to the electrochemical cell within the cell housing and incorporated within a housing that at least partially contains the cell housing, or attached to the housing, housing or label, or any other structure that attaches to the cell; housing or cover. Regulators) multi-cell batteries may be incorporated together with one or more separate cells as described «in connection with a single cell battery, and / or may be incorporated together with a combination of several electrochemical cells, the controller being connected in series or in parallel with combination of electrochemical cells.

The battery controller of the present invention may perform one or more of the above functions, and may perform other functions in addition to the above functions. The battery controller of the present invention may comprise a single circuit that performs each of the desired functions, or may include separate auxiliary controllers that perform one or more desired functions according to their purpose. In addition, these sub-controllers may be involved in the operation of circuits such as detection circuits that may give control signals to the individual sub-controllers.

In the attached figures, the last two digits of the reference marks that specify a component are repeated when they are comparable components, and the distinguishing function is performed by one or two digits preceding the two digits. For example, the housing 12 shown in Figures 1 to 3 is comparable to the housing 212 of Figure 5A.

Giant. 1 to 3 show the structural structures of a typical cylindrical battery 10, which are simplified for the sake of clarity. Each structure of the cylindrical battery 10 has the same basic components that are arranged in different assemblies. In any case, this design comprises a housing 12 having a housing or side wall 14, an upper lid 16 comprising a positive outlet 10, and a lower lid 18 comprising a negative outlet 22. The housing 12 hermetically closes a single electrochemical cell 30. FIG. 1 shows an embodiment that may be used in the case of a cylindrical, single-cell, zinc-carbon electrochemical cell 30 of battery 10. In this embodiment, the entire upper lid 16 is conductive and forms a positive terminal 20 of the battery 10. The electrode or power collector 26 electrically interconnects the external positive terminal 20 of the battery 10 and the cathode (positive electrode) 32 of the electrochemical cell 30. The entire lower lid 18 is also conductive and produces an external negative terminal 20 of the electrochemical cell. φ φ φ • • • φ »

The lower lid is electrically connected to the anode (negative electrode) 34 of the electrochemical cell 30. A separator 28 is provided between the anode 34 and the cathode 32, which provides means for conducting ions within the electrolyte. A zinc-carbon battery is a specific example of a battery of this type.

Giant. 2 shows an alternative battery configuration in which an insulating insert or seal 25 insulates the lower lid 18 from the electrochemical cell 30. In this case, the entire upper lid 16 is conductive and forms a positive battery terminal 20. The upper lid 16 is electrically coupled to the cathode 32 of the electrochemical cell. The lower lid 18, which is also conductive, forms a negative battery terminal 22. The lower cap 18 is electrically connected to the anode 34 of the battery cell 30 via an electrical current collector 26. Between the anode and the cathode is located a separator 28 which provides means for conducting the ions inside the electrolyte. Examples of battery designs of this type include primary and rechargeable, alkaline (zinc / manganese dioxide) batteries.

Giant. 3 shows another alternative embodiment of a battery configuration in which the electrochemical cell is formed in the form of a "spiral wound, jelly roll". In this design, the four layers are placed side by side in the form of a "layered type" structure. For example, the "layered type" structure may include the following layer order: cathode layer 32, first separating layer 28, anode layer 34, and second separating layer 28. Alternatively, a second separating layer 28 that is not positioned between the cathode layer 32 and the anode layer 34, replace with an insulating layer. This 'laminated-type' structure is then rolled up in the form of a spiral wound, jelly roll and placed in a housing 12 of the batteries. It can be seen that the insulating insert or seal 24 insulates the lid 16 from the electrochemical cell 30. In this case, the entire upper lid 16 is conductive and forms a positive terminal 20 of the battery 10. The upper lid 16 is electrically connected to the cathode 32 of the electrochemical cell 30 the collector 26 and the wires 33. The lower lid 18, which is also conductive, forms a negative terminal 22 of the battery. The lid time 18 is electrically connected to the anode 34 of the battery cell 30 via a conductive bottom plate

19. Separation layers 28 are disposed between the cathode layer 32 and the anode layer 34 to provide ion conducting means within the electrolyte. It can be seen from the figure that the side wall 14 is attached to both the top lid 16 and the bottom lid 18. In this case, the side wall 14 is preferably made of a non-conductive material such as a polymer. However, the side wall would be tf tf tf tff tf tff tff tff tff tff

16 could be made of a conductive material such as metal, provided that such a side wall 14 would be insulated from at least the positive terminal 20 and / or the negative terminal 22 so as not to form a short circuit between the two terminals. Examples of batteries of this type include primary and rechargeable batteries containing lithium / manganese dioxide (MnO ₂ ) and rechargeable lithium ion batteries, cadmium nickel (NiCd) batteries, and nickel metal hydrate (NiMH) batteries.

Each of these cells may also include different forms of security vent holes, control vent holes for electrochemical cells that require air exchange, capacity indicators, labels, etc., which are well known in the art. In addition, these cells may be incorporated into other embodiments known in the art, including miniature cells, coin-like cells, prism cells, plate cells, two-pole plate cells or film-based thick / thin cells, etc.

For purposes of the present invention, the battery "housing" 12 comprises a single electrochemical cell 30. The housing 12 has all the components necessary to protect and isolate both electrodes 32, 34, the electrochemical cell separator and electrolyte from environmental and other electrochemical cells in a multi-cell battery. and which are required to provide electrical power from the electrochemical cell 30 located within the housing. In this sense, the housing 12 in Figs. 1 and 2 comprises a side wall 14, an upper lid 16, a lower lid 18 and a positive 20 and a negative terminal 22 forming the electrical connection of the cell 30. In a multi-cell battery, it comprises a single electrochemical cell 30. and the housing may be one of several separate housings in a multi-cell battery. The housing 12 may alternatively comprise a portion of the cover of a multi-cell battery, provided that the cover completely insulates the electrodes and electrolyte of one electrochemical cell 30 from the environment and each of the other cells in the battery. The housing 12 can be made by combining a conductive material such as metal and an insulating material such as plastic or polymer.

However, the housing 12 is to be distinguished from a multi-cell battery housing that includes separate, separately insulated, alkaline cells 630, each having its own electrodes and electrolyte. By way of example, six separate alkaline cells are housed within the standard alkaline 9 volt battery housing. 630. each with its own case 612,

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99

Each alkaline cell 630 has an internal positive terminal 620 connected to an external positive terminal 621 and has an internal negative terminal 622 connected to an external negative terminal 623. Preferably, each alkaline cell Article 630 contained a controller 640 which operates in a manner that will be explained below. However, in some 9 volt lithium batteries, the battery cover 611 is designed to have separate chambers that insulate the electrodes and electrolyte of the electrochemical cells 30, and as a result, the cover includes both separate housings 12 for each cell and a housing 611 for the entire multi-cell battery. 610.

Giant. 6 shows a perspective, partially cross-sectional view, of an embodiment of a multi-cell 9 volt battery according to the present invention, wherein each electrochemical cell 630 has a controller 640 in its separate housing 612. In this embodiment, the battery 610 comprises six separate electrochemical cells 630 each of these electrochemical cells having a nominal voltage of approximately 1.5 volts. The battery 610 could also include, for example, three lithium cells, each having a nominal voltage of approximately 3 volts. Other designs of multi-cell batteries are known in the art and may be used to position the controller 640 of the present invention. Examples of multi-cell batteries include prismatic batteries, batteries having separate housings that are at least partially shrink-wrapped together, plastic covers that include several single-cell housings, such as camcorder and mobile phone batteries.

Giant. 5A, 5B and 5C show views of three partially exploded embodiments of single cell primary batteries 210, 310 and 410 according to the present invention. FIG. 5A shows that the controller 240 is located between the top lid 216 and the insulator insert 224 of the battery 210. The positive output 242 of the controller 240 is electrically connected to the positive terminal 220 of the battery 210, which is directly connected to the controller 240, and the negative output 224 of the controller 240 is electrically connected to the negative terminal 222 of the battery 210. In this example, the negative output 244 of the controller 240 is connected to the negative terminal 222 of the battery 210 through the conductive strip 245 and the conductive side wall 214. In this case, the conductive side wall must be electrically insulated from the top lid 216. The positive input 246 of the controller 240 is electrically coupled to the cathode 232 of the electrochemical cell 230 via an electrical header 226.

-18 * φφφ • · · · φ φ φ · * ··· ·· ·· current. The negative input 248 of the controller 240 is conductively coupled to the anode 234 of the electrochemical cell 230 via a conductive strip 237. Alternatively, the controller 240 may be positioned between the lower lid 218 and the insulator 225 or may be attached, secured or attached to the housing or battery label. The separator 228 is positioned between the anode line in the electrolyte cross section of the electrochemical cell 230.

In Fig. 5B, the controller 340 is located between the lower lid 318 and the insulator 325 of the battery 310. The negative output 344 of the controller 340 is electrically connected to the negative terminal 322 of the battery 310, which is directly connected to the controller 340 and the positive output. 342 of the controller 340 is electrically connected to the positive terminal 320 of the battery 310. In this example, the positive output 342 of the controller 340 is connected to the positive terminal 320 of the battery 310 via a conductive side wall 314 which is electrically connected to the positive terminal 320 of the conductive upper lid 316 of the battery 310. Positive input 346 of regulator 340 is electrically coupled to cathode 332 of electrochemical cell 330 via a conductive strip 336. Negative input 348 of regulator 340 is electrically coupled to anode 334 of electrochemical cell 330 via a current collector 326 that extends from bottom plate 319 to anode 334 of electrochemical Art In such cases, the power collector 326 and the negative input 348 of the controller 340 must be isolated from the negative terminal 322 of the housing 312 and the negative output 348 of the controller 340 when the controller 340 uses a virtual zero-electricity potential. Alternatively, the controller 340 may be positioned between the top lid 316 and the insulator 324 or may be attached, secured, or attached to the exterior of the housing 312 or battery label. The separator 328 is located between the anode lead in the electrolyte cross section of the electrochemical cell 330.

FIG. 5 shows that the controller 440 is formed on the packaging layer 441 using thin film printing technology or flexible printed circuit boards (JPCBs) printed inside the housing between the side wall 414 and the cathode 432 of the battery 410. The positive terminal 442 of the controller 440 is electrically connected to the positive terminal 420 of the battery 410 through the top lid 416 of the battery 410 and the negative terminal 444 of the controller 440 is electrically connected to the negative terminal 422 of the battery 410 through the lower plate 419 and the lower lid 418. Positive input 446 of controller 440 is electrically coupled to cathode 432 of electrochemical cell 430, which in this case is

-19Φ φ φ φ i i φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ ♦ ♦ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ and an electrical collector 426 that protrudes from the contact plate 431 into the anode 434 of the electrochemical cell 430. The insulating insert 427 isolates the contact plate 431 from the cathode 432. As shown in Figure 5C, the insulating insert 427 can also be expanded between the anode 434 and the interface. If the controller 440 uses a virtual zero electrical potential, then this contact plate 431 must also be insulated from the bottom plate 419 and the negative terminal 442 by an insulating insert 425. layer 44 1 may alternatively be placed on the exterior of the housing 412 to wrap the exterior of the side wall 414. In such embodiments, the label may cover the packaging layer, or it is possible for the label to be printed on the same packaging layer as the regulator itself.

Giant. 4, 4A and 4B show block diagrams of different embodiments of a battery 110 according to the present invention. Giant. 4 illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of the present invention using a built-in, integrated circuit of a controller 140. This embodiment advantageously utilizes a mixed-type integrated circuit having both digital and analog components. Alternatively, the controller circuit could be manufactured using an application specific integrated circuit (abbreviation "ASIC"), a hybrid chip design, a photoresist (PC) plate, or other circuit design methods that are known in the art. The controller circuitry 140 may be disposed within the battery housing 112 between the positive electrode 132 and the negative electrode 134 of the electrochemical cell 130 and between the positive terminal 120 and the negative terminal 122 of the battery. Thus, the controller 140 may connect or disconnect the electrochemical cell 130 or the terminals 120 and 122 of the housing 112 to vary or stabilize the output voltage or output impedance of the cell 130 that acts on the battery terminals 120 and 122. FIG. 4A illustrates one preferred embodiment of the battery 110 of the present invention shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 4A shows that the controller 140 is connected between the electrode (cathode) 132 of the electrochemical cell 130 and the positive terminal 120 of the battery housing 112. the electrode (anode) 134 of the electrochemical cell 130 and the negative terminal 122 of the battery housing 112 have a common zero electrical potential with the controller 140. FIG. 4B however

Shows an alternative preferred embodiment of battery 110 according to the present invention wherein the controller 140 utilizes a virtual zero electric potential to isolate the negative electrode 134 of the electrochemical cell 130 from the negative terminal. 122 of the housing 112 in addition to insulating the positive electrode 132 of the electrochemical cell 130 from the positive terminal 120 of the housing 112.

Each of the embodiments shown in FIG. 4A and 4B have their own advantages and disadvantages. For example, the assembly shown in Fig. 4 allows for a simpler circuit design having a common zero electrical potential for the galvanic cell 130, the controller 140 and the negative terminal 122 of the battery housing 112. However, the assembly shown in Fig. 4A has the disadvantage of requiring the regulator worked below the actual cell voltage levels, and may require the use of an inductor component. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4B, the virtual zero electrical potential applied to the negative terminal 122 of the battery housing 112 both insulates the negative electrode 134 of the electrochemical cell 130 from the load and allows the use of a DC / DC converter or charge pump. However, this arrangement has the disadvantage that it requires greater circuit complexity associated with a virtual zero electrical potential in order to create conditions whereby the voltage converter of the controller 140 could continue to operate more efficiently when the cell voltage is low (<1 V). ).

Giant. 4C shows yet another embodiment of a battery 110 according to the present invention having an integrated controller circuit 140, the controller circuit 140 comprising four main components: a controller discharge auxiliary circuit 102, a controller charging auxiliary circuit 104, a controller emergency auxiliary circuit 106 and a detection circuit 105; which transmits the control voltage signals to the controller discharge auxiliary circuit 102 and / or the controller charge auxiliary circuit 104 based on continuously or randomly detected operating parameters and / or physical conditions. The detection circuit 105 may measure such operating parameters of the electrochemical cell as the cell voltage, the current drawn from the cell, the phase shift between the cell voltage and the current, etc. The detection circuit 105 may additionally measure such operating parameters of the IC 140 as output levels The detection circuit may also measure such quantities of physical conditions of the electrochemical cell as temperature, pressure, pH, hydrogen and / or oxygen concentration, etc. The detection circuit 105 may measure any combination of these parameters , which

-214 4 44

4

444 44

444 * · * are sufficient to effectively monitor the electrochemical cell during the charge and discharge cycle, by methods known in the art or will be described hereinafter.

The integrated circuit of the battery controller 140 of the present invention may not perform all of the functions listed above. The controller circuit 140 may have only two or three of the above components such as the controller discharge auxiliary circuit 102 and the detection circuit 105, the controller charging auxiliary circuit 104 and the detection circuit 105, the controller emergency auxiliary circuit 106 and the detection circuit 105, or other combinations thereof. Alternatively, the controller circuit 140 may not have a detection circuit 105 if the auxiliary circuits such as the controller discharge auxiliary circuit 102, the controller charging auxiliary circuit 104, and the emergency controller auxiliary circuit 106 are incorporated into a specific embodiment of the controller 140. the circuits necessary to perform their respective function (s). In addition, either the controller discharge auxiliary circuit 102 or the controller auxiliary charge circuit 104, or both, 102 or 104, may also function as the emergency controller auxiliary circuit 106. The controller circuitry 140 may also have one or more of the aforementioned controller auxiliary circuit or detection circuit along with other auxiliary components that perform other additional functions to those listed above.

The controller discharge discharger circuit 102 controls discharging of the electrochemical cell (s) 130 of the battery 110 to extend battery operating time by providing a safe deep discharge that allows greater use of the accumulated energy of the primary battery or optimum utilization of the accumulated energy of the rechargeable battery. recharging. The regulator charging auxiliary circuit 104 safely and efficiently controls the charging of the electrochemical cell (s) 130 of the battery 110 into which the regulator circuit 140 is incorporated. The emergency controller auxiliary circuit 106 disconnects the electrochemical cell (s) from the battery terminals when the detection circuit 105 detects a violation of safety conditions such as short circuit, reverse polarity, overcharging state, or over discharge state. The emergency auxiliary circuit 106 of the controller also establishes an electrical connection to bypass the discharge

-22V · · · ·

ΦΦΦ φ · φφφφ

Pomoc φφ ΦΦΦ · ·· * · the auxiliary circuit of the controller when the load requires a highly safe electric current, but which exceeds the possible level of electric power supply through the controller.

In a preferred embodiment of the primary battery of the present invention, however, the controller 140 would preferably include a controller discharge auxiliary circuit 102, a controller emergency auxiliary circuit 106, and a detection circuit 105. The detection circuit 105 preferably performs continuous monitoring of operating parameters and physical conditions of the electrochemical cell 130. preferably, the controller 110 controls the discharge of the electrochemical cell (s) 130 of the battery 110 in order to extend the battery operating time by providing a safe deep discharge before the battery is discarded. The regulator emergency sub-circuit 106 preferably disconnects the electrochemical cell (s) from the battery terminals 120, 122 by detecting failures of safety conditions or establishes an electrical connection to bypass the discharging auxiliary circuit of the regulator when the load requires a power supply ratio that exceeds the regulator capabilities. , but is within the safe range of the cell discharge current.

In a preferred embodiment of the rechargeable battery 110 of the present invention, the controller 140 may additionally comprise a controller auxiliary charging circuit 104. The regulator charging auxiliary circuit 104 safely and efficiently controls the charging of the electrochemical cell (s) 130 of the battery 110 into which the regulator circuit 140 is incorporated. The detection circuit 105 preferably performs continuous and direct monitoring of the operating parameters of the controller 140 and the physical conditions of the electrochemical cell (s) 130. The detection circuit 105 may measure such operating parameters of the electrochemical cell as cell voltage, cell current, phase shift between cell voltage and electrical current, etc. The detection circuit 105 may monitor, for example, cell voltage, charging current, intrinsic impedance of the electrochemical cell (s), hydrogen and / or oxygen concentration, pH, temperature, pressure or some other operating parameters or physical conditions are related to this field of technology.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, each electrochemical cell has its own oily circuit of the controller 104 which monitors the conditions in a particular cell. By directly monitoring the conditions in each particular cell, the charging auxiliary controller 104 can provide better safety and efficiency than the known charging controller,

-23 «» »4 * 4 4444 4 4 4944

9444 9 4 * 4 4 «4» 93 4 · 4 * 44

444 »4 444 444« 4 44 which monitors losses by utilizing the instantaneous charging value of the donor (s) and maximum cell capacity to continuously optimize the charging conditions.

Each controller may contain one or more of the following auxiliary controllers:

(1) the discharge auxiliary controller 102. (2) the charging auxiliary controller 104 and / or (3) the emergency auxiliary controller 106. For the sake of simplicity of description, the controller functions will be explained in the terms of the auxiliary controllers. However, the actual embodiment of the actuator 140 of the present invention does not require independent circuit assemblies for each function separately, since the multiple functions performed by the controller can and preferably are combined into a single circuit. By way of example, each auxiliary controller has its own Oily, internal detection circuits for measuring one or Mce of the controller's operating parameters and / or physical conditions of the electrochemical cell (s), or an independent detection circuit can measure parameters and / or conditions that it further transmits for use, and / or may transmit control signals relating to the parameters and / or conditions of one or Mce other than one sub-controller. In addition, the controller may have additional or alternative auxiliary controllers that perform other functions that access one or Mce functions listed herein.

Discharge auxiliary regulator

The discharge auxiliary controller 102 may extend the operating time of the primary or rechargeable battery of the present invention in one of several ways. First, in the case of a multi-cell battery containing at least one primary electrochemical cell or at least one rechargeable cell that preferably discharges completely before recharging (for example, a NiCd cell preferably discharges up to about 100% but not Mce), the sub-regulator may allow deeper discharging one or Mce electrochemical battery cells as a result of the operation of an electronic device than would otherwise be possible. By way of example, the discharge auxiliary controller is capable of allowing the single-cell battery to discharge below a threshold at which the cell voltage drops below the closing voltage of the device. In the case of a primary battery, the operating time of the battery may be extended due to the maximum possible deep discharge of the electrochemical cell (s) before the batteries are discarded. However, in the case of a rechargeable battery, the operating time of the battery is extended by discharging the electrochemical cells to the optimum

• · · • ··· • • «« • · • · «· • · · • • · • · • · · · ··· «·· ·· • ·

depth of discharge. In this context, if the optimal staking depth of the rechargeable rechargeable electrochemical cell is below the shut-off voltage of the device that recharges the rechargeable battery, then the rechargeable battery operating time can be extended. a value that is above the reverse voltage level of such a device.

As used herein, the term "deep discharge" refers to the possibility of discharging the electrochemical cell (s) to at least 80% of the nominal capacity of the electrochemical cell (s). Furthermore, the term "substantial discharge" in this patent application refers to the possibility of discharging the electrochemical cell (s) to at least 70% of the nominal capacity of the electrochemical cell (s). “Excessive discharge in this application indicates the possibility of discharging the electrochemical cell (s) above 100%, which may result in voltage reversal. For example, a typical alkaline battery that is currently under load has an overall ability to supply approximately 40% to 70% of the energy storage capacity before the voltage level of the electrochemical cell drops to a voltage level that is not sufficient to power the electronic device. Accordingly, the auxiliary regulator of the present invention preferably provides an alkaline cell that has the ability to provide more than 70% discharge before the batteries are disconnected. More preferably, the auxiliary regulator provides a level of discharge that is greater than about 80%. Even more preferably, the auxiliary regulator provides a discharge level of greater than about 90% and most preferably greater than about 95%

The discharge auxiliary controller 102 may include a converter that converts the cell voltage to the desired output voltage of the primary or rechargeable battery. In the case of a primary battery, such a converter allows deeper discharge of the electrochemical cell (s) and thus extends the battery operating time. However, in the case of a rechargeable battery, such a converter allows the rechargeable battery to discharge within the optimum depth range independently of the reverse voltage level of the device. In one embodiment of the present invention, the auxiliary regulator can continuously convert the salt voltage to the desired output voltage throughout the battery run. In the event that the cell voltage drops to the reverse voltage level of the device, which would normally stop the battery discharge, this converter amplifies or increases the cell voltage at the battery output to a level sufficient to continue powering the device until ·· «

-25 ··· ··· voltage drops below the minimum voltage required to power the auxiliary regulator or below the optimum discharge depth of the rechargeable electrochemical cell. Thus, a battery having an auxiliary regulator in its design having the ability to operate at a lower voltage than the auxiliary regulator of another battery will exhibit a deeper discharge capability independent of the cell voltage level.

In the case of hybrid cells, the discharge auxiliary regulator may have a low voltage converter that converts the voltage of the galvanic cells to the desired output voltage of the primates or rechargeable batteries. The discharge auxiliary controller 102 can continuously convert the voltage of the galvanic cell to the desired output voltage for the duration of the primary or secondary battery. Thus, a battery having an auxiliary regulator incorporated in a design having the ability to operate at a lower voltage than the auxiliary regulator of another battery will exhibit parameters that are compatible with the β typical low voltage generated by many galvanic cells, such as photovoltaic, fuel and mechanical cells. The galvanic cell discharge auxiliary controller 102 may provide additional power, including a U-cell hybrid battery primary cell. The discharge auxiliary controller may also use galvanic cells to charge the secondary cells or to provide additional power.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the converter only operates when the cell voltage drops to or below a predetermined voltage level. In such embodiments, internal converter losses are minimized because the converter only operates when necessary. The predetermined voltage level is preferably in the range from the nominal voltage of the electrochemical cell to the highest reverse voltage of the device class for which the battery is intended. The predetermined voltage level is more preferably a little higher than the highest reverse voltage of the device class for which the battery is intended. For example, the predetermined voltage may range from about the highest reverse voltage of the device class for which the battery is intended to up to about 0.2 volts plus said reverse voltage, preferably ranging from about the highest reverse voltage of the device class for which the battery is intended , up to about 0.15 volts plus said reverse voltage, more preferably ranging from about the highest reverse voltage of the class of devices for which the battery is intended, up to about 0.1 volts phis said reverse voltage, and even more preferably ranging from about the highest a back-up voltage of the instrument class for which the battery is intended, up to approximately 0.05 volts plus said back-up voltage. For example, an electrochemical cell having a generally rated voltage of approximately 1.5 volts exhibits * v • «© •« «and ·· ··

-26f * V w a a a © © předem předem předem předem předem předem předem předem předem předem předem předem předem předem předem předem předem předem předem předem předem předem předem předem předem předem .8 vohu. Preferably, the predetermined voltage is in the range of about 0.9 volts to about 1.6 volts. More preferably, the predetermined voltage is in the range of about 0.9 foot to about 1.5 foot. Even more preferably, the predetermined voltage ranges from about 0.9 volts to about 1.2 feet, and even more preferably the predetermined voltage ranges from about 1.0 feet to about 1.2 feet. Most preferred is a voltage level that is slightly higher or equal to the highest reverse voltage of the device class for which the battery is intended. However, an auxiliary regulator that is designed to operate in an electrochemical cell having a nominal voltage of about 3.0 foot can generally have a predetermined voltage level ranging from about 2.0 foot to about 3.4 foot. Preferably, the predetermined voltage is in the range of about 2.2 volts to about 3.2 volts. More preferably, the predetermined voltage is in the range of about 2.4 foot to about 3.2 foot. Even more preferably, the predetermined voltage is in the range of about 2.6 foot to about 3.2 foot, and even more preferably the predetermined voltage is in the range of about 2.8 foot to about 3.0 foot. Most preferred is a voltage level that is slightly higher than or equal to the highest reverse voltage of the device class for which the battery is intended.

When the cell voltage drops to or below a predetermined voltage level, the discharge auxiliary regulator turns on the converter and amplifies the cell voltage to the desired output voltage that is sufficient to power the load. This is a cost-saving measure against converter losses that are not necessary at a sufficiently high cell voltage to power the load, but then the converter gives the electrochemical cell the ability to continue discharging even when the cell voltage falls below the level required to power the load; the discharge continues until the cell voltage reaches the minimum converter operating voltage for the primary cell, or until the cell voltage reaches the optimum discharge depth for the rechargeable cell. The auxiliary regulator can use a single control mechanism or multiple control mechanisms ranging from a simple combination of a voltage comparator and an electronic switch that turns on the converter when the cell voltage drops to a predetermined level to more complex control schemes, some of which will be described below.

The universal battery of the present invention, which is designed for a given output voltage, preferably has the ability to extend the battery operating time when used to power a device or device. The term "universal" used in this application • ··

-27 The battery designates a battery that can provide a uniform output voltage independent of the electrochemical nature of the cells or the physical mechanism of the galvanic cells. Thus, the battery of the present invention is designed to extend its operating time by maintaining the battery output voltage at a level greater than or equal to the shut-off voltage of the device until the built-in auxiliary controller trips due to the primary electrochemical cell voltage drop ( electrochemical cells) to a level below which the auxiliary regulator can no longer operate or due to a drop in the voltage of the rechargeable electrochemical cell to its optimum discharge depth. The battery of the present invention, which is designed to power a specific electronic device or a narrow class of electronic devices having similar reverse voltages, may be specifically designed to operate more efficiently by closer approximation of a predetermined voltage level relative to the reverse voltage (s). of this device (s).

Second, the discharge auxiliary regulator 102 may be used to extend the operating time of the rechargeable electrochemical cell based on optimal cell discharge to increase the number or efficiency of the charging cycles. For example, in a sealed cell that contains lead and acid, deep discharge may damage the cell and / or reduce the number or efficiency of future charging cycles. For example, the auxiliary regulator may control the discharge of a particular type of rechargeable electrochemical cell so that the discharge cycle ends when the cell voltage reaches a predetermined voltage level that represents the optimum discharge depth of that type of electrochemical cell or special type of electrochemical cell. For example, in a sealed cell that contains lead and acid, such a predetermined voltage level ranges from about 0.7 volts to about 1.6 volts, more preferably about 0.7 volts. In a rechargeable cell containing lithium and MnCl 2, the predetermined voltage level is in the range of about 2.0 volts to about 3.0 volts, most preferably about 2.4 volts. Alternatively, the discharge auxiliary controller may also terminate the discharge cycle when the internal impedance of the rechargeable battery reaches the maximum desired discharge depth for a given type of electrochemical cell or for a particular electrochemical cell. Thus, in a battery according to the present invention which comprises at least one rechargeable electrochemical cell whose discharge depth does not fall below the optimum discharge depth, the discharge can

-28φ · φφφ • φ φφ φφφ φφφ

Use the auxiliary regulator to extend the operating time of the battery by ending the charging cycle when the cell voltage reaches a predetermined voltage level or when the internal impedance reaches a predetermined volt- age. V V φ φ φ φ φ φ φ the internal impedance level, or when this condition is indicated by an appropriately built-in chemical sensor.

Third, the discharge auxiliary controller may also reduce the voltage of the electrochemical cell (s) having (s) the rated voltage higher than the desired output voltage and / or vary the output impedance of the voltage of the battery electrochemical cell (s). This not only extends the battery run time, but also allows for a wider interchangeability of electrochemical cells having different rated voltages than otherwise possible, allows designers to take advantage of greater accumulated potential of higher rated voltages, and allows said designers to create conditions for varying the output impedance of certain electrochemical cells in order to adapt the impedance to the desired levels, either to extend the exchangeable usability of different types of electrochemical cells and / or to increase the efficiency of the electrochemical cell feeding a particular type of load. In addition, electrochemical cells that are ineffective, pose a danger to the environment, are costly, and are generally used only because of a specially required rated voltage, such as a cadmium mercury cell, can be replaced by safer, more efficient or cheaper electrochemical cells whose rated voltage can increase or or whose output impedance can be varied to achieve the desired rated voltage or output impedance according to the requirements of the particular application.

For example, an electrochemical cell having a rated voltage of about 1.8 volts or higher may be assembled with an auxiliary regulator that reduces this higher rated voltage to a standard rated voltage level of about 1.5 volts so that the battery may be interchanged with a battery having a nominal voltage of about 1 volts. 5 volts. In one particular example, a standard lithium cell, such as a primary cell containing lithium and MnQz having a nominal voltage of approximately 3 VDC, may be incorporated into a battery with an auxiliary voltage regulator such that the battery has an output voltage of approximately 1.5 volts. This provides a battery having at least twice the power of a battery having an electrochemical cell with a nominal voltage of approximately 1.5 volts and the same volume. In addition, a high voltage lithium cell is obtained, which can be interchanged with a standard alkaline or damp w 0 * φφφ

-29 φ φ φ φ «« «opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak opak · · This cell can be assembled into a battery with a down-regulator so that such a single-cell battery has an output voltage of approximately 1.4 volts. The lithium ion battery of the present invention may be confused with a standard single cell "NiCd" or "NiMH" rechargeable battery, but will have two to three times the capacity of a single cell "NiCd" or JMMH battery having a fixed capacity.

In addition, batteries having electrochemical cells, such as Kthium ion batteries, magnesium batteries, magnesium air and aluminum air batteries, also exhibit a nominal voltage of about 1.8 foot and may be interchanged with a standard battery having a nominal voltage of about 1.5 foot. Not only is it possible to interchange different types of electrochemical cells, but it is also possible to assemble different types of electrochemical cells together in a hybrid battery.

Thus, different types of batteries that contain different electrochemical cells with different rated voltages or internal impedances can be used in a replaceable manner, or hybrid batteries can be made that contain different types of electrochemical cells and galvanic cells such as photovoltaic, thermal, fuel and mechanical cells. .

Electrochemical cells having a rated voltage below which typical electronic devices will operate may alternatively use a discharge auxiliary controller 102 with a built-in amplifier converter to amplify or increase the rated voltage. This provides a battery having this type of electrochemical cell, the possibility of use in combination with such a device that requires a higher voltage level than the cell could otherwise provide. Moreover, a battery having this type of cell may also be confused with standard alkaline or zinc carbon electrochemical cells. In this way, commercially desirable, widely applicable batteries can be provided that would otherwise not be considered in practice to be of interest to consumers because of too low a nominal voltage.

In addition, several galvanic cells having a rated voltage lower than the voltage at which a typical electronic apparatus will operate may additionally use a discharge auxiliary controller with a built-in amplifier for amplifying the rated voltage. This provides a hybrid battery having this type of galvanic cell, the ability to be used in combination with a device that requires a higher voltage level than the cell would otherwise be bored to provide

• 99 » «* 9  in in 9 in 9 v · 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 · • 9 9 ·· 99 · 9 * 9 99 99

In addition, a battery having this type of cell may also be interchanged with standard alkaline or soft electrochemical cells. Thus, it is possible to provide commercially desirable, widely applicable batteries having hybrid cells that would otherwise not be considered to be of practical interest to consumers because of too low a nominal voltage.

The purpose of "Table 1" is not its exclusivity, but rather focuses on an overview of examples of primary, secondary and reserve electrochemical cells that may be used in the battery of the present invention. For example, different types of primary and / or rechargeable electrochemical, which have different rated voltage or internal impedance, may use the converter to assemble a universal single cell battery that has the same output voltage as a standard 1.5 volt alkaline or rechargeable battery 1.4 Volt Cadmium Rechargeable Battery. In addition, the primary, secondary and / or reserve cells may be used together in a hybrid multi-cell battery according to the present invention. Obviously, the present invention allows for wider interchangeability between different types of electrochemical cells and between electrochemical cells and alternative power sources such as fuel cells, capacitors, etc. than previously. By positioning the controller in each electrochemical cell, electrical characteristics such as rated voltage and output impedance of different types of electrochemical cells can be adjusted to create design conditions for making a larger selection of cells to be used in assembling replaceable batteries. Battery designs can take advantage of the particular benefits of an electrochemical cell while maintaining interchangeability with batteries that contain other cell types. In addition, the present invention can be used to create new standard voltage levels by converting the rated voltages of electrochemical cells to standard voltage levels.

The same applies to physical mechanisms that are different from chemical principles and which are used to generate electrical energy. Typical individual photovoltaic, thermal, fuel, and mechanical (for example, "PST") cells have an output voltage well below the desired voltage level of a standard instrument or device. The present invention allows the combination of a low voltage galvanic and standard electrochemical system in a single hybrid cell or independent cells for power supply * tftftf

-31 • tftf tf ·· «tf tftff tf tftf · tftf ·· or a device that requires the same or different voltage than the voltage of the hybrid cell or independent cells.

TABLE 1

Dectrochemical cell types and rated voltages

Primary articles Article type Rated Tension Article type Rated Tension Mercury - cadmium 0.9 volts Lithium FeSz 1.6 volts Mercury oxide 1.35 volts Magnesium - organic electrolyte 1.6 volts Mercury oxide with MnO 3 1.4 volts Magnesium MnQz 2.8 volts Zinc-air 1.4 volts Lithium - a solid electrolyte 2.8 volts Carbon-zinc 1.5 volts Lithium MnO2 3.0 volts Zinc chloride 1.5 volts Lithium (CFL 3.0 volts Alkaline MnOj 1.5 volts Lithium SQ2 3.0 volts Silver-oxide 1.5 volts Lithium SOCh 3.6 volts Secondary articles Article type Rated Tension Article type Rated Tension Silver - cadmium 1.1 volts Zinc-bromine 1.6 volts Edison (Fe-Ni oxide) 1.2 volts High temperature Li (Al) - FeS ?. 1.7 volts Nickel-cadmium 1.2 volts Aluminum - air 1.9 volts Nickel metal hydride 1, 2Vohu Lead - acid 2.0 volts Nickel-hydrogen 1.2 volts High temperature Na - S 2.0 volts Silver-zinc 1.5 volts Lithium - polymer Li - V6O13 3.0 volts Zinc-air 1.5 volts Lithium - ion C - LLCoCh 4.0 volts Nickel-zinc 1.6 volts Reserve articles Article type Rated Tension Article type Rated Tension Copper chloride 1.3 volts Thermal Li - FeSi 2.0 volts Zinc / silver oxide 1.5 volts

In addition, otherwise incompatible electrochemical cells can be used together in hybrid batteries that are specially designed for specific use purposes. For example, a zinc-air electrochemical cell can be used together in a hybrid battery by a shthium cell, either in parallel or in series. The zinc - air electrochemical cell has a nominal voltage of approximately 1.5 volts and a very high energy density, however

- 32 »ψ 9 9

999 99

999 999 «· · · 99 * 9 can provide low, constant power levels. However, the light cell has a nominal voltage level of approximately 3.0 volts and can provide short discharges of high current levels. The discharge auxiliary regulator of each electrochemical cell generates the same rated output voltage and allows both parallel and series connection. When the cells are in parallel connection, the auxiliary controllers can also prevent the cells from developing with each other. The auxiliary regulator of each cell can also be used to connect or disconnect one or both cells as required by load conditions. Therefore, if the load is in the low current mode, then the zinc air cell may be connected for the purpose of providing a steady, low current, and, if the load is in the high current mode, a woo cell or a combination of said lithium cells and zinc-air cells can provide the electrical current that is necessary to power the load.

Hybrid batteries may also contain a number of different combinations of electrochemical cells, such as primary and secondary cells, primary and reserve cells, secondary and reserve cells, or primary, secondary and reserve cells. In addition, hybrid batteries may also comprise combinations of one or more electrochemical cells and one or more additional power sources such as a photovoltaic, thermal, fuel or mechanical cell, a conventional capacitor or even a super / ultra capacitor. For example, the hybrid battery may comprise a combination of alkaline and metal-air cells, metal-air cells and secondary cells, as well as a combination of a metal-air cell and a superconductor. In addition, the hybrid batteries may also contain possible combinations of two or more of the two cells or power sources mentioned.

In addition, the discharge auxiliary controller may also extend the battery operating time by protecting the electrochemical cell (s) from current spikes that could damage the operation of the electrochemical cell components and reduce the cell voltage. For example, the auxiliary regulator may prevent the generation of a memory effect that results from high power requirements and shortens the run time of the electrochemical cell (s). Current peaks also damage electrochemical cells such as alkaline, hthium, NiCd, SLA cells, metal hydride cells and grain-air cells.

The discharge auxiliary regulator can protect the electrochemical cell from the effects of current spikes by temporarily accumulating electrical charge at the auxiliary output

-33Φ ΦΦ · φ φ · · ♦ φ • •• φ φ · · · φφ φ φφφ φ φ <φ · ·

The regulator and such a temporarily accumulated charge can be used for an immediate request. Therefore, the peak current requirement can be completely eliminated or substantially reduced before it reaches the electrochemical cell. This allows the battery to provide current peaks that are higher than the electrochemical cell (s) can provide directly, and to protect the electrochemical cell (s) from peak currents that can damage cell components. A preferred component for temporary charge build-up is a capacitor. Such a capacitor may be any type of capacitor or a capacitor known in the art as a conventional capacitor, a printed thin film capacitor, or even a uper / ultra capacitor. For example, FIG. 13 illustrates a capacitor C1 which is connected transversely from terminal 1320 to terminal 1322 of housing 1312.

A single discharging auxiliary controller will advantageously extend the battery operating time both based on the protection of the cell against current surges and by converting the cell voltage to the desired output voltage. For example, the preferred embodiment of the sub-controller may turn on the converter when the cell voltage drops to a predetermined voltage level to minimize converter-related losses. The same sub-controller may monitor both the cell voltage and load current and turn the converter on when the voltage the cell reaches a predetermined voltage level, or when the load current reaches a predetermined level. Alternatively, the auxiliary regulator can monitor both the cell voltage and the load current to determine whether supplying the desired load current will reduce the cell voltage below the reverse voltage level. In the latter example, this sub-controller operates on the basis of two input signals that are combined in an algorithm to determine whether the converter should be turned on. However, in the previous example, the auxiliary regulator turns on the converter either when the cell voltage drops to a predetermined voltage level or when the load output current is increased to a predetermined level. These schemes, together with other schemes, will be explained in more detail below.

The present invention relates to special purpose batteries as well as commonly used batteries such as AAAA, AAA, AA, C or D cells and 9 volt batteries. The present invention takes into account the use of special purpose batteries and hybrid batteries that could be used for various purposes. It is assumed that these special purpose batteries and hybrid batteries would be flats

-34 ♦ využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit využit , the use of which is currently limited by the ability of the primary batteries to deliver the desired electric current ratio over a sufficient period of time. In addition, the ability to separately load the output voltage and output impedance of cells provides battery designers with the ability to design brand new types of hybrid batteries that use combinations of different cell types or alternative power sources such as photovoltaic, thermal, fuel or mechanical cells, conventional capacitors or even super / ultracapacitors in the same hybrid battery

Increasing the number of exchangeable types of electrochemical cells could also give material designers the ability to develop standard primary or rechargeable batteries to reduce the dependence on custom-built batteries for specific devices such as mobile phones, portable laptop computers, camcorders, cameras, etc. A consumer could simply buy standard batteries to power a mobile phone just as a consumer currently buys a flashlight or tape recorder, rather than having to look for the battery that is made specifically for a particular type, brand and / or model of electronic machines. In addition, as the number of standard batteries produced increases, the cost per unit is drastically reduced, resulting in considerably easier availability of batteries that could completely replace specially designed, rechargeable batteries. In addition, primary and rechargeable batteries could also be used for interchangeable purposes. As an example, if the rechargeable batteries of a portable laptop computer are depleted, the user could purchase primates of batteries that lasted several hours of operation until the user ensured that the rechargeable batteries were charged. The user could also buy cheaper batteries, provided he does not need the high power levels that a device with more costly batteries could provide.

Electronic labeling technology, such as that used in photographic film, etc., could also be used to indicate the exact type of cell (s) in the battery, nominal and / or remaining cell capacity (s), peak and optimal power supply capability, charging level current, internal impedance, etc., so a “smart” device could read electronic data from the label and optimize its consumption for

* ··· v w v v * 4 4 4 4 4 · 4 4 4 4 444 44 44 · 444 * 4 * 4

camera performance, extending battery life, etc. A camera that uses electronic labeling, for example, to determine film speed, could also use electronic labeling technology for its batteries to allow the flash to charge more slowly, stop the flash, etc. to optimize battery runtime. The portable laptop computer could also use electronic labeling technology to determine the most efficient operating parameters of a particular battery, for example by varying the working speed to best use the remaining battery power during the time period needed by the user or using the on / off technologies supporting the gentle management of battery power. In addition, camcorders, mobile phones, etc. could also use electronic labeling for optimum battery use.

The present invention also relates to standard consumer batteries such as AAA, AA, C or D cells and 9 volt batteries. In addition to primary batteries, which can be mistaken for different types of primary or even rechargeable batteries, standard primary or rechargeable batteries can be used for purposes that currently only custom-made, custom-made batteries meet. Depending on the specific need, consumers could purchase, for example, one or more types of standard primary or rechargeable batteries that could be inserted directly into their portable laptop computers, camcorders, mobile phones and other portable electronic devices. As mentioned above, as the number of standard batteries produced increases, the cost per unit is drastically reduced, resulting in much easier availability of batteries that could completely replace specially designed, rechargeable batteries.

In order to extend the operating time of primary batteries or rechargeable batteries having a relatively low optimum discharge depth, the discharge auxiliary controller may be designed in accordance with the latest circuit technology to operate at even lower voltages. For example, the discharge sub-controller may be designed to operate at low voltage levels, such as about 0.1 volts in a silicon carbide ("SiC"), about 0.34 volts in a galha arsenide ("GaAs"), and about 0.54 volts in a conventional silicon-based embodiment. In addition, as the print size decreases, these minimum stresses will also decrease. As an example, in the case of silicon reducing the print circuit to 0.18 micron technology would minimize the working • ·· «

The voltage dropped from approximately 0.54 volts to approximately 0.4 volts. It has already been stated that the lower the minimum required operating voltage of the discharge auxiliary regulator, the deeper the discharge auxiliary regulator can regulate the cell voltage in order to perform the most discharging of the primary electrochemical cell or optimally discharging the rechargeable electrochemical cell to optimally low discharge depth. . Thus, it is an object of the present invention to take advantage of the various advantages of the assembled circuitry to increase the usability of the battery up to about 100% of the accumulated charge of the electrochemical cell. However, the silicon-based design presented for review provides up to 95% utilization of the accumulated battery potential, which is a considerably high discharge value compared to an average 40% to 70% utility of primary electrochemical cells without a controller.

In one preferred silicon-based embodiment, the discharge auxiliary controller 102 is designed, for example, to operate at voltages that are low to about 1 volt, more preferably about 0.85 volts, even more preferably about 0.75 volts, even more preferably about 0, 65 volts, even more preferably about 0.6 volts, with about 0.54 volts being most preferred. In the case of an auxiliary regulator that is designed for an electrochemical cell having a nominal voltage of approximately 1.5 volts, the auxiliary regulator has the ability to operate at such a high input voltage that is up to about 1.6 volts. More preferably, the sub-controller has the ability to operate at such a high input voltage that is up to about 1.8 volts. Thus, the preferred sub-controller has the ability to operate in a voltage range of at least about 1.8 volts to about 1.6 volts. However, the auxiliary regulator can also, and preferably does, operate outside this range.

However, in a preferred embodiment of the discharge auxiliary regulator 102, which is constructed in accordance with the present invention for use in an electrochemical cell 30. such as a primary lithium-MnOi cell having a nominal voltage of approximately 3.0 volts, the auxiliary regulator must be capable of operating at a higher voltage level. than the required voltage for the auxiliary regulator that is used in connection with an electrochemical cell having a nominal voltage of approximately 1.5 volts. In the case of an electrochemical cell having a nominal voltage of about 3.0 volts, the discharge auxiliary controller has the ability to operate in the range of about 2.4 volts to about 3.2 volts. More preferably, the sub-controller has the ability to operate in the range of about 0.8 volts to about 3.2 volts. Even more preferably, the auxiliary controller * φ φ · φ ··

ΦΦΦ

The ability to operate in the range of about 0.6 volts to about 3.4 volts. Even more preferably, the sub-regulator has the ability to operate in the range of about 0.54 volts to about 3.6 volts, with a range of about 0.45 volts to about 3.8 volts being most preferred. However, the auxiliary regulator can also, and preferably does, operate outside this range.

However, in a preferred embodiment of the discharge sub-controller 102, which is constructed in accordance with the present invention for use in an electrochemical cell 30, such as a rechargeable hithium ion cell having a nominal voltage of approximately 4.0 volts, the sub-controller must be capable of operating at a higher voltage level. than the required voltage for an auxiliary regulator that is used in connection with an electrochemical cell having a rated voltage of about 3.0 volts or about 1.5 volts. In the case of an electrochemical cell having a nominal voltage of about 4.0 volts, the discharge auxiliary controller has the ability to operate in the range of about 2.0 volts to about 4.0 volts. More preferably, the sub-controller has the ability to operate in the range of about 0.8 volts to about 4.0 volts. Even more preferably, the sub-controller has the ability to operate in the range of about 0.6 volts to about 4.0 volts. Even more preferably, the sub-controller has the ability to operate in the range of about 0.54 volts to about 4.0 volts, with a range of about 0.45 volts to about 4.0 volts being most preferred. However, the auxiliary regulator can also, and preferably does, operate outside this range.

An alternative preferred embodiment of the discharge auxiliary controller has the ability to operate in combination with an electrochemical cell having a rated voltage of either approximately

1.5 volts or about 3.0 volts. In this embodiment, the discharge sub-controller has the ability to operate with a minimum input voltage of about 0.7 volts, more preferably about 0.6 volts, and most preferably about 0.54 volts, and a maximum input voltage of about 3.2 volts, more preferably about 3.4 volts, yet more preferably 3.6 volts, and most preferably about 3.8 volts. The discharge sub-controller may have the ability to operate, for example, in the range of about 0.54 volts to about 3.4 volts, from about 0.54 volts to about 3.8 volts, or from about 0.7 volts to about 3.8 volts, etc.

The batteries of the present invention also provide significant advantages over conventional batteries when used in electrical devices or devices, such as strobe lights, etc., that have no reverse voltage. As the standard battery discharges

-38 • · 4 4 4 * • · 44 * 44

4 4 4

444 ··· · «4 * its output voltage drops. Since the power of the electrical equipment is directly proportional to the battery supply voltage, there is a proportional relationship between the decrease in the power of the electrical equipment and the output voltage of the battery. For example, the light intensity of the strobe light bulb will decrease as the output voltage of the battery decreases until it is completely discharged. However, the battery of the present invention has a discharge auxiliary regulator that regulates the cell voltage to a constant, controlled voltage level throughout the discharge cycle, at which the voltage of the electrochemical cell 30 drops to a level below which the auxiliary regulator can no longer operate. However, during the discharge cycle, the electrical device will continue to provide relatively stable fattening (e.g., bulb intensity) and full functionality until the battery is turned off.

The preferred embodiment of the battery of the present invention also includes means for warning the user of low charge remaining and the remaining capacity indicator. For example, the discharge auxiliary controller may disconnect the electrochemical cell (s) from the output terminals and reconnect the cell (s) to the battery output terminals intermittently over a short period of time when the voltage of the electrochemical cell reaches a predetermined value. This may take the form of a visible, audible, vibrational, or legible battery low notification. In addition, an auxiliary regulator could also artificially create an accelerated battery discharge condition by reducing the output voltage at the end of battery life. For example, an auxiliary regulator could start to reduce the output voltage when the battery's storage capacity is running at 5% of its prescribed capacity. In this way, lowering the volume of the cassette or CD player, or the indicator on the unit, would send a warning to the user about the status of the batteries.

Giant. 7 illustrates a block diagram of one embodiment of the present invention, wherein the DC / DC converter 750 of the discharge auxiliary electricity regulator 702 or preferably electronically connected between the positive electrode 732 and the negative electrode 734 of the electrochemical cell 730 and the positive terminal 720 and negative terminal 722 of the housing 712. The DC / DC converter 750 converts the voltage across from the positive electrode 732 to the negative electrode 734 of the electrochemical cell 730 to the output voltage at the positive output 720 and the negative output 722 of the housing 712. The DC / DC converter 750 can perform incremental voltage conversion as well as reducing voltage conversion or stabilization

-393 4 4

4 44

4 4 4 4 4

444 44 «9 * * 4 voltages at output terminals 720 and 722. In this embodiment, the DC / DC converter operates in a continuous mode in which the output voltage of the electrochemical cell 730 is converted to a constant output voltage at terminals 720 and 722 at all times battery. This embodiment stabilizes housing output voltage 712 at output terminals 720 and 722. Providing a constant output voltage provides electronic instrument designers with the ability to reduce the complexity of electronic device power control circuits and reduce size, weight, and cost of manufacturing such devices.

The DC / DC converter 750 will continue to operate until the voltage of the electrochemical cell 730 falls below either the optimum depth of discharge of the electrochemical cell for a rechargeable cell or the minimum polarized direct voltage of electronic components and polarized direct voltage ("Vfh") 750 in the case of a primary electrochemical cell. Thus, in situations where the optimum discharge depth of the electrochemical cell or the minimum voltage threshold or the minimum polarized direct voltage (Vfb) of the DC / DC converter 750 is less than the reverse voltage of the electronic device that powers the battery 710, the controller 740 will also extend the operating time. the battery 710 by discharging the battery 170 under the reverse voltage of the electronic device by maintaining the output voltage at terminals 720 and 722 of the housing 712 above the reverse voltage of the electronic device.

In one preferred embodiment of the present invention shown in Fig. 7, the DC / DC converter operating in continuous mode may be a down converter that reduces the voltage of the electrochemical cell 730 to the output voltage of the housing 712. In one embodiment of the discharge auxiliary controller 702. the converter decreases the voltage of the first type of electrochemical cell 730 to the output voltage of the housing 712, which output voltage is close to the rated voltage of the second type of electrochemical cell, so that the battery containing the first type of electrochemical cell 730 is interchangeable with . For example, an electrochemical cell that has a higher rated voltage than a standard 1.5 volt cell could be used in combination with a stapling, continuously working converter, and could create a cell that is interchangeable with a standard cell without requiring chemical changes to the electrochemical cell . This design allows for a higher degree of interchangeability of the different types of electrochemical cells, which is possible without carrying out the process. ························

-40chemical changes in the structure of the electrochemical cell and reduction of accumulated chemical energy of the cell.

For example, a primary or rechargeable lithium cell may be used in a standard AA battery assembly to provide at least twice the capacity of an alkaline battery having the same volume. A lithium cell, such as a primary or rechargeable lithium MnQz cell, has a nominal voltage of about 3.0 volts and cannot normally be confused with a standard AA alkaline battery having a nominal voltage of about 1.5 volts. However, battery designers have developed new types of Kthium batteries, such as LiFeSj batteries having a nominal voltage of approximately 1.6 volts, to provide a lithium battery that can be interchanged with, for example, a standard AA alkaline battery. Although this 1.6 volt Hthium battery still has the ability to deliver high current levels for use in photographic flash light loads, the use of a 1.6 volt lithium electrochemical cell results in a substantial chemical reduction of chemical energy buildup relative to lithium weights. However, the present invention provides the ability to use a high voltage primary or rechargeable lithium electrochemical cell having a rated voltage of about 3.0 volts or about 4.0 feet and comprising a controller for converting that rated voltage down to about 1.5 feet or about 1, respectively. 4 volts. Thus, the battery provides about twice the accumulated chemical eneigie

1.5 volt alkaline cell or 1.4 volt cadmium nickel (NiCd) batteries in a battery that is completely interchangeable with these 1.5 volt and 1.4 volt batteries In addition, a Hthium battery of the present invention would provide the same high voltage levels as 1, 6 volt LiFeSi cell

In addition, the discharge auxiliary controller 702 also optimizes the performance of an electrical device such as a strobe light that uses a battery 710. Although the power device will not turn off as an electronic device at minimum operating voltage, the power output of the strobe light will decrease as the input voltage drops. However, the constant output voltage of the battery 710 allows the constant power of the electrical device to be maintained throughout the battery run without decreasing the power of such device resulting from the voltage drop of the electrochemical cell 730.

The DC / DC converter 750 may utilize one or more of the known control schemes, including pulse modulation, such as pulse width modulation ("PWM"), modulation • V · ·· ··· · Φ · ··· ·· ·

-41amphude pulse ("PAM"), pulse repetition rate ("PFM") and pulse phase modulation ("PM"), low-load pulse jump control scheme, resonant converter schemes, etc. to control converter 750 operating parameters. a combination of pulse width modulation and pulse phase modulation, which will be described in more detail below.

In a preferred embodiment of the DC / DC converter 750 intended for use in the battery of the present invention, the DC / DC converter 750 is controlled by a pulse width modulator. The pulse width modulator generates a fixed frequency control signal at which duty cycle changes are reported. By way of example, the duty cycle may be zero at converter shutdown, 100% at full power converter and values between zero and 100% depending on load requirements and / or remaining capacity of the electrochemical cell 730. The pulse width modulation scheme has at least one output signal that is used to generate a duty cycle. In one embodiment, the output voltage values at the outputs 720 and 722 of the housing 712 are continuously monitored and compared to a reference voltage. In this case, a negative feedback loop from the output voltage at the outputs 720 and 722 of the housing 712 creates the possibility that the DC / DC converter provides a stabilized output voltage. Alternatively, the DC / DC converter 750 may utilize multiple input signals, such as cell voltage signals, that is, the transverse voltage from the positive electrode 732 to the negative electrode 734 of the electrochemical cell 730, and the output current related signals to generate a duty cycle. In this embodiment, the cell voltage and output current values are monitored, and the DC / DC converter 750 generates a duty cycle that is a function of these two parameters.

Giant. Figures 8 to 11 show block diagrams of further embodiments of the discharging auxiliary controller circuits of the present invention. In these embodiments, the sub-controller circuit comprises at least two basic components: (1) a DC / DC converter and (2) a converter driver which electrically or preferably electronically or preferably connects and disconnects the DC / DC converter between the electrodes of the electrochemical cell and the housing output terminals; DC / DC converter losses occur only when the DC / DC converter has to convert the cell voltage to the voltage that is absolutely necessary to power the load. For example, a DC / DC converter can only be turned on when the cell voltage drops to a predetermined level below which the device can no longer operate. Otherwise, it requires -H (, l> <

/ »· · 4, <

-42electronic instrument input voltage in a special range, such as 10% of the rated battery voltage, then the converter driver can “turn on” the DC / DC converter when the cell voltage is outside the desired range, but it can “turn off” the converter when the cell voltage to the required extent.

For example, in Figure 8, the DC / DC converter 850 is electrically connected between the positive electrode 832 and the negative electrode 834 of the electrochemical cell 830 and the positive terminal 820 and the negative terminal 822 of the housing 812. The converter controller 852 is also electrically connected between the positive electrode 832 and the negative electrode 834. In this example, the converter controller 852 acts as a switch that either connects the electrochemical cell 830 directly to the output terminals 820 and 822 of the housing 812 or connects the DC / DC converter 850 between the electrochemical cell 830. and output terminals 820 and 822 of housing 812. The converter controller 852 continuously monitors the output voltage values and compares them to one or more levels of internally generated voltage thresholds. If the output voltage of the housing 812 falls below the threshold voltage level or is outside the desired threshold voltage range, then the converter controller 852 electrically or preferably electronically "energizes" the DC / DC converter 850, thereby connecting the DC / DC converter 850 between the electrochemical cell 830 and Preferably, the voltage threshold is in the range of approximately the nominal voltage of the electrochemical cell 830 to approximately the highest level of the reverse voltage of the class of electronic devices whose operation the battery is designed. Alternatively, the converter driver 852 may continuously monitor the voltage of the electrochemical cell and compare this voltage to a voltage threshold in order to control the operation of the DC / DC converter 850.

In the case of a rechargeable battery, the converter controller 852 also advantageously disconnects the electrochemical cell 830 from the output terminals 820 and 822 when the cell voltage reaches the optimum discharge depth of the electrochemical cell 830. This promotes a maximum cyclic battery lifetime in which each discharge cycle Battery run time. This can extend the operating time of the battery.

The discharge auxiliary controller 902 shown in Figure 9 may include components of the discharge auxiliary controller 802 shown in Figure 8, but additionally includes a bias voltage controller.

-43φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ · · ·

A zero-potential electrical circuit 980 β that is electrically connected between the electrodes 932 and 934 of the electrochemical cell 930, the DC / DC converter 950, the converter controller 952, and the output terminals 920 and 922 of the housing 912. potentially provides for supplying a negative bias voltage level ("Vnb") to the DC / DC converter and to the negative output terminal 922 of the housing 911. This increases the voltage that is applied to the DC / DC converter 950 from cell voltage to cell voltage plus absolute negative bias voltage level ("Vnb"). This will allow the converter 950 to operate at an effective voltage level until the actual cell voltage drops to a voltage level that is less than the minimum polarized forward voltage that is necessary to control the bias voltage circuit 980 with zero electrical potential. Thus, the converter 950 can more efficiently drain the higher voltage levels from the electrochemical cell 930 than would be possible using only the voltage of the electrochemical cell 930 controlling the operation of the converter 950. In a preferred embodiment, the discharge auxiliary controller 902 for battery 910 of the present invention has an electrochemical cell having a nominal voltage of about 1.5 volts, the negative bias voltage ("Vnb") is preferably in the range of about 0 volts to about 1 foot. More preferably, the negative bias voltage ("Vnb") is about 0.5 foot, with about 0.4 foot being most preferred. Ultimately, the zero-voltage bias voltage circuit 980 provides the converter 950 with a deeper discharge capability for the electrochemical cell 930 and increases the efficiency of the converter 950 to draw current from the electrochemical cell 930 even when the cell voltage drops below approximately 1 volt. 1,5 vohu.

One example of an embodiment of a charge pump 988 that may be used as a zero voltage potential bias circuit 980 in a battery 910 according to the present invention is shown in Fig. 9A. When the switches S1 and S3 are closed and the switches S2 and S4 are open, then in this embodiment the voltage of the electrochemical cell 930 charges the capacitor Ca. If the switches S1 and S3 are open and the switches S2 and S4 are closed, then the charging of the capacitor Ca is inverted and transmitted to the capacitor Cb which provides the inverted output voltage from the voltage of the electrochemical cell 930. The charge pump 988 shown in Fig. 9A can be alternatively, replaced by any applicable charging pump circuit known in the art.

• φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ · · · · ·

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the bias circuit 980 with zero electrical potential comprises a charge pump circuit 988. The cartridge pump circuit 986 is shown in Fig. 9B and includes a clock generator 987 and one or more pumps 988. In a preferred embodiment of the cartridge pump circuit 986 shown in Fig. 9B, the cartridge pump, for example, comprises a two-storey system having four miniature pumps.

989 and one main pump 990. However, any other number of miniature pumps 989 may be used. For example, one preferred embodiment of the charge pump circuit 986 includes twelve muriatum pumps 989 and one main pump. Operation of miniature pumps 989 and the main pump

990 of this embodiment is controlled by four different phase control signals 991a. 991b. 991c and 991d. which generates clock generator 987 and which have the same frequency but are phase shifted apart. For example, the phase shift spacing of the control signals 991a to 991d may be set ninety degrees apart. In this embodiment, each of the miniature pumps 989 produces an inverted output voltage of the control signals 991a to 991d, which is generated by the clock generator. The main pump 990 adds the outputs of a given number of miniature pumps 989 and produces an output signal for the charge pump circuit 986 that has the same voltage level as the individual miniature pump output voltages, but operates at a higher current level than the cumulative current generated by all miniature pumps 989. This output signal creates a virtual zero electricity potential for the DC / DC converter 950 and the negative output terminal 922 of the battery housing 912.

According to another feature of the present invention, the charge pump circuit further comprises a charge pump controller 992 which, in order to minimize losses associated with the charge pump circuit 986, energizes the charge pump circuit 986 only when the cell voltage drops below a predetermined voltage level. For example, the predetermined voltage of the charge pump controller 992 may range from approximately the rated voltage of the electrochemical cell 930 to approximately the highest reverse voltage of the group of electronic devices for which the battery 910 is designed to power. The preferred predetermined voltage is about 0.1 volts higher than the reverse voltage of the electronic device, and most preferably the predetermined voltage is about 0.05 volts higher than the reverse voltage of the electronic device. Alternatively, the charge pump circuit 986 could be controlled by the same control signal that turns on the DC / DC converter 950 so that the charge pump circuit 986 only operates when the converter 950 is operating.

· · T * * t * * t t t t t t t t

In addition, both the DC / DC converter 950 and the 98 charge pump circuit 986 in the battery having the rechargeable electrochemical cell are preferably switched off when the cell voltage drops near the optimum discharge depth. This allows optimum discharge of the rechargeable electrochemical cell to maximize the number and efficiency of each cell's charge cycles.

Further, due to the tripping of the zero-voltage bias voltage circuit 980, the virtual zero-electrical potential that acts on the negative output terminal 922 of the housing 912 preferably collapses to the negative electrode voltage level 943 of the electrochemical cell 930. With the zero-electric potential inactive, the battery operates in a standard zero-electric potential configuration that is generated by the negative electrode 934 of the electrochemical cell 930.

Alternatively, the bias voltage circuit 980 with zero electrical potential could comprise a second DC / DC converter, a Cuk-type converter, or a linear regulator. In addition, the DC / DC converter 950 and the bias voltage circuit 980 could be combined and replaced with a single converter, such as a Buck-Boost converter for voltage reduction and boost, a double-acting converter or a reverse converter which will perform both increment positive output voltage, as well as reducing negative bias.

Giant. 10 shows yet another embodiment of the discharge auxiliary controller 1002 circuit of the present invention. In this embodiment, the DC / DC converter 1050 has the ability to receive a correction control signal from an external source, such as a phase shift detection circuit 1062. As mentioned with reference to FIG. 7, the DC / DC converter 1050 uses a pulse width modulator modulator control scheme to control converter 1050 operating parameters. In this embodiment, the discharge auxiliary controller circuit 1002 includes the same components as the discharge auxiliary controller circuit 902 shown 9, but additionally includes a phase shift detection circuit 1062 that measures the instantaneous phase shift between the AC cell voltage components of the electrode 1032 and the current drawn from the electrochemical cell 1030, which is measured across the current detection resistor Rc. The DC / DC converter 1050 uses this signal in combination with other internal or external control signals to generate a duty cycle.

The discharge sub-controller 1102 according to the embodiment shown in Figure 11 may include the same components as the discharge sub-controller 1002 shown in Figure 10, but

-46 • ··· 9 · 9 9 9 9

9 · 9 99 * 9 ·· • 99 · φ · 9 * ·

In addition, it comprises an emergency circuit 1182 which is electrically connected to both sides of the current detection resistor Rc and to the negative terminal H22 of the electrochemical cell 1130, and which is further connected to the converter controller 1152. The emergency circuit 1182 may send a signal to the converter controller 1152 in response to a change in the safety state (s) requiring disconnection of the electrochemical cell (s) from the output terminals 1120 and 1122 of the housing 1112 for consumer protection, electrical equipment or electronic device using battery 1110 or to protect the electrochemical cell 1130 itself. As an example, in the event of a short or reversed polarity, the emergency circuit 1182 sends signals to the controller 1152 to disconnect the electrodes 1132 and 1134 of the electrochemical cell 1030 from the terminals 1120 and 1122 of the housing 1112. 1182 may additionally provide information about the discharge cycle of the electrochemical cell 1130 to the converter driver 1152 based on the detection of voltage and / or the internal impedance of the electrochemical cell 1130. The discharge auxiliary controller 1102 m For example, it may reduce the current when the remaining capacity of the electrochemical cell 1130 drops to a predetermined level, intermittently disconnecting and reconnecting the electrodes 1132 and 1134 of the electrochemical cell 1130 from and to the output terminals 1120 and 1122 within a short period of time. or provide some other visible, audible, or automatically readable alerts when the battery is about to shut down. The emergency circuit 1182 can be used separately to create a bypass mode of the controller when the current detection circuit 1183 indicates a higher constant current value than the controller 1150 can withstand. If this current is within the safe range, then the emergency circuit 1182 can send a signal to the converter controller 1152 to connect the electrodes 1132 and 1134 of the electrochemical cell 1130 directly to the output terminals 1120 and 1122 bypassing the converter 1150. At the end of the discharge cycle, the emergency circuit may also send a signal to the converter driver 1152 to disconnect the electrochemical cell 1130 from the terminals 1120 and 1122 of the housing 1112; or shorting the output terminals 1120 and 1122 to prevent a condition in which the discharged electrochemical cell 1130 would consume current from other cells that are in series with said discharged electrochemical cell 1130.

A preferred embodiment of the discharge auxiliary controller 1202. shown in FIG. 12 includes a DC / DC converter 1250 having a synchronous rectifier 1274 that can

-47 • φφ * φφφφφφφφφφφφφφφφφφφφφφφ

The positive electrode 1232 from the positive terminal 1220 of the housing 1212 is electronically connected and disconnected from the positive terminal 1220. The synchronous rectifier switch 1274 eliminates the need for an additional switch, such as a converter driver 852, in a direct electrical path between the positive electrode 1232 and negative electrode 1234. and housing outlet terminals 1220 and 1222. In addition, the synchronous rectifier 1274 increases the efficiency of the DC / DC converter 1250 by reducing internal losses. The converter driver 1252 of this embodiment also allows the generation of additional input signals to control the DC / D converter 1250. In the embodiment shown in FIG. shown) monitors the internal environment of the electrochemical cell, such as temperature, pressure, and hydrogen and oxygen concentrations, in addition to the phase shift measurement described above in connection with Figure 10.

Giant. Figures 7 to 12 show progressively more complex and complex circuit configurations of the present invention. Their order provides an overview of the various components that may be incorporated into the discharge auxiliary controller circuit in addition to the DC / DC component that is central to the controller of the present invention. The sequence shown does not necessarily lead to the conclusion that components or combinations of several components that are incorporated into circuits later must have all the features that have been enumerated in the context of the foregoing illustrations in order to define the scope of the invention. For example, the emergency circuit, the charging indicator circuit, the phase detection circuit, and / or the zero-voltage bias voltage circuit may be used in combination with the circuits shown in Figures 6-12 without the converter driver or other components shown in the drawings containing the listed components.

A preferred embodiment of the integrated controller control circuit 1340 for use in the battery 1310 of the present invention comprises a DC / DC converter 1350 and a converter driver 1352, and this embodiment is shown in Fig. 13. The converter 1350 is preferably a high efficiency, medium power converter voltage threshold of most electronic devices. The discharge sub-controller 1302 preferably comprises a charge pump, such as that shown in Fig. 9B, to create a virtual zero electric potential having a lower electricity potential than the negative electrode potential 1334 of the electrochemical cell 1330 relative to the DC / DC converter 1350 and the output terminal 1322 of the housing 1312. The virtual zero electricity potential creates an increased voltage differential,

-48 který »který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který který a higher current level from the electrochemical cell 1330 than would otherwise be achieved by simply using the cell voltage to drive the converter.

In this embodiment, the converter driver 1352 preferably utilizes a pulse width modulation and pulse phase modulation control scheme. The phase shift detection circuit 1362 measures the cell voltage and current drawn from the electrochemical cell at the positive electrode 1332 and the negative electrode 1334 of the electrochemical cell 1330, and the instantaneous and / or subsequent phase shift between voltage and current. This phase shift defines the intrinsic impedance of the electrochemical cell 1330, which is a function of the charge capacity of the electrochemical cell 1330. As an example related to an alkaline battery, after approximately 50% discharge of the electrochemical cell 1330, an increase in internal impedance indicates the remaining capacity of the electrochemical cell 1330. The phase shift detection circuit 1362 transmits these signals to the phase linear controller 1371. The phase linear controller 1371 then generates the voltage Vs detected by the phase shift detection circuit 1362 and outputs the output voltage control signal V (psi). ), which is linearly proportional to the phase shift, to the pulse modulator 1376, which uses the pulse width and pulse phase modulation control scheme of the modub. The pulse modulator 1376 also receives a voltage drop across the resistor Rs in the form of a voltage control signal.

The pulse modulator 1376 uses a combination of voltage control signals to control the DC / DC converter 1350. When the voltage Vs is above a predetermined voltage level threshold, the pulse modulator 1376 keeps the field-controlled insulated oxide transistor (JVOSFET ') M3 closed and MOSFET M4. in the open state. Thus, the current path from the electrochemical cell 1330 to the load is maintained via MOFSET M3. In addition, the losses associated with the DC / DC converter 1350 and the converter controller 1352 are minimized because the duty cycle is effectively maintained at zero percent. In this case, the losses of the DC components closed by the field-controlled MOSFET M3 and the resistance Rs are extremely low. For example, the resistance R s is preferably in the range of about 0.01 to about 0.1 ohms.

However, when the voltage Vs is below a predetermined voltage level threshold, the modulator 1376 is turned on and modulates the duty cycle of the DC / DC converter 1350 to tftftf.

-49 • tftf tftf · tftf

V * «V 9 9 9 9 tf tftftftf tf tf tf tf tf tf tftftff tf tftftff · tf · based on a combination of voltage control signals. The amplitude Va acts as the first control signal to control the duty cycle. The voltage drop across the current detection resistor or current sensor, which is a function of the output current, acts as a second control signal. Finally, the signal Vsi generated between the alternating components of the cell voltage and the current drawn from the electrochemical cell 1330 is the third control signal. In particular, the signal Vfpsi) is used to vary the duty cycle in response to changes in internal impedance during the battery run time, which affects the efficiency of the converter and the battery run time. The pulse modulator extends the duty cycle when the instantaneous and / or subsequent voltage amplitude Vs decreases, or when the voltage drop across the resistor Rs increases, and / or when the instantaneous and / or successive voltage amplitude Vfpsi) of the control signal increases. . The importance of contributing each variable is judged by the appropriate control algorithm.

When the pulse modulator 1376 is in the on mode, its oscillator generates square or trapezoidal wave control pulses that preferably have a 50% duty cycle and a frequency in the range of about 40 kHz to about 1 MHz, more preferably in the range of about 40 kHz to about 500 kHz wherein the most preferred frequency is about 600 kHz is most preferred. The pulse modulator 1376 changes the duty cycle of the output control signal for the MOFSET M3 and MOFSET M4 using the appropriate control algorithm. In the most general sense, the control algorithm controls M3 and M4 with the same duty cycle but the opposite phase. It is preferred that MOFSET M3 and MOFSET M4 are complementary high voltage transistors, wherein M3 is preferably an MOFSET with a N-channel and M4 is preferably an MOFSET with a P-channel. The complete DC / DC converter 1350 has a substantially DC / DC converter with synchronized rectifier at the output. In addition, the 1350 converter minimizes AC and DC losses by using an MOFSET M3 instead of a non-synchronous Schottky diode. Separate control signals control M3 and power MOFSET M4. Changing the phase and / or duty cycle between the control signals of transistors M3 and M4 changes the output voltage transversely from the positive terminal 1320 to the negative terminal 1322 of the housing 1312.

The pulse modulator 1376 may control the MOFSET M3 and MOFSET M4 based on one or more voltage control signals, such as a Vs voltage. voltage drop across resistor Rs or internal impedance of electrochemical cell 1330. If load current consumption is low, then modulator 1376 generates, for example, a DC / DC converter cycle 1350 that is close to zero percent. 1376 generates

-50 • 4 · »» »

4 4 4 4 4

4 4 4 4 • 44 4 * 44 a DC / DC converter duty cycle of 1350 that is close to 100%. If the load current consumption varies between these end values, the duty cycle of the DC / DC converter also changes in order to supply the current required by the load. Giant. 14 compares an example of the battery discharge curve B1. which does not have a controller according to the present invention, an example of a battery discharge curve B2 according to the present invention having a discharge auxiliary regulator in which the converter operates in a continuous mode and an example of a discharge curve B3 according to the present invention having a discharge auxiliary regulator battery voltage used in a typical electronic device for which the battery is designed. FIG. 14 shows that the battery B1. However, the discharge auxiliary battery controller B2 continues to increase the battery output voltage to the voltage level V2 during the battery run time. When the electrochemical cell voltage drops to the Vh voltage level. which is the minimum operating voltage of the discharge auxiliary regulator, this discharge auxiliary regulator B2 turns off and the battery output voltage drops to zero at time L and the effective run time of the battery B2 ends. The graph shown in FIG. 14 shows an effective increase in battery run time B2 having a discharge auxiliary controller whose converter operates in a continuous mode.

However, the battery controller B3 does not start increasing the battery output voltage until the electrochemical cell voltage reaches a predetermined voltage level Vp. The predetermined voltage level Vp3 is preferably in the range between the rated voltage of the electrochemical cell and the highest reverse voltage of the class of electronic devices for which the battery is intended to be powered. More preferably, the predetermined voltage level Vp higher by about 0.2 V than the maximum reverse voltage V _c class of electronic devices for which battery power is determined. Even more preferably, the predetermined voltage level V _r -> is higher by about 0.15 volts than the highest reverse voltage Vc of the class of electronic devices to be powered by the battery. Even more preferably, the predetermined voltage level Vpa is higher by about 0.1 volts than the highest reverse voltage Vc of the class of electronic devices the battery is intended to power, most preferably a predetermined voltage level Vp that is about 0.05 volts higher When the cell voltage reaches a predetermined voltage level V _P >, the battery converter B3 begins to increase or stabilize the output voltage to the level Vc + V. The voltage level V is shown in Figure 14.

9 ·

999 »9

9 9 9 9 ·

999 999 9

-51a represents the voltage difference between the increased output voltage of battery B3 and the reverse voltage Vc. The voltage level is preferably in the range of about 0 vdt to about 0.4 foot, more preferably 0.2 foot. Thereafter, the battery B3 continues to provide output until the electrochemical cell voltage drops below the voltage level V a, which is the minimum operating voltage of the converter, and the battery controller B3 turns off. In this situation, the battery output voltage drops to zero at time h and the effective run time of the battery B3 ends. The graph shown in FIG. 14 shows an increase in the effective run time of the battery B3 relative to the battery B1. which does not have a converter according to the present invention, and this extension can be mathematically expressed by the difference of FIG. 14 also shows that the battery B3 lasts longer than the battery B2, provided that both batteries are connected to the same electronic device. Since the B2 battery converter operates continuously, the internal losses of the converter consume part of the power capacity of the B2 battery, and therefore the B2 battery cell voltage (s) will reach the minimum converter voltage Va after a shorter period of time compared to the B3 battery. , in which the controller operates only in part of the discharge cycle. Thus, optimizing the selection of a predetermined voltage Vp of the battery B3 as close as possible to the reverse voltage level of the powered electronic device will result in the most efficient use of the electrochemical cell and a more extended battery run time. For example, a preferred predetermined voltage may be about 0.2 volts higher than the reverse voltage. More preferably, the predetermined voltage Vps may be about 0.15 volts higher than the reverse voltage. Even more preferably, the predetermined voltage Vp may be about 0.1 foot higher than the reverse voltage, most preferably such a predetermined voltage V _r x. which is approximately 0.05 pounds higher than the closing voltage of the electronic device.

However, when the battery is constructed as a universal battery for various electronic devices, the predetermined voltage is preferably selected to be equal to or somewhat higher than the highest reverse voltage of a given group of electronic devices. For example, preferred predetermined voltage V _R may be about 0.2 Vohu higher than the cut-off voltage of that group of electronic devices. More preferably, the predetermined voltage V _r -> may be about 0.15 foot higher than the reverse voltage of a given group of electronic devices. Even more preferably, the predetermined voltage V _P? about 0.1 volts higher than the back-up voltage of a given group of electronic devices, most preferably a predetermined voltage V _r in which it is about 0.05 volts higher than the back-up voltage of a given group of electronic devices.

-52 • φ »φ φ * * φ φ φ φ φ φ φ φ

The graph depicted in FIG. 14 also shows that the lower the minimum operating voltage of the converter Vj, the greater the battery run time increase compared to a battery B1 that does not have a controller according to the present invention. In addition, the greater the difference between the closing voltage of the electronic device V _c and the minimum working voltage of the converter V *, the greater the battery run time will be generated by the controller of the present invention due to an increase in the voltage of the electrochemical cell.

Giant. 14 further demonstrates that the reverse voltage of the apparatus is no longer a limiting factor in the discharge of the primary or rechargeable electrochemical cell. The longer the controller can maintain the output voltage of the device, the longer the electrochemical cell (s) can continue to discharge. In the case of primary batteries, this allows the electrochemical cell (s) to be discharged as completely as possible, depending on the minimum operating voltage of the converter. However, in the case of rechargeable batteries, the present invention allows for optimum discharge that extends the rechargeable battery operating time independently of the shutdown voltage of the apparatus as long as the converter is able to operate at a cell voltage lower than or equal to the optimum discharge depth of the rechargeable electrochemical cell.

Charging auxiliary regulator

The charging auxiliary controller 104 may also extend the cyclic lifetime of the rechargeable battery of the present invention. This auxiliary regulator can extend the cycle life of the battery by controlling the charging sequence of each individual electrochemical cell. Thus, the charging auxiliary controller may optimize the charging of each cell based on the feedback from that particular cell to maximize the number and efficiency of each charge and discharge cycle. For example, the charging auxiliary controller may control the charging of each cell based on direct monitoring of the cell voltage and / or the internal impedance of each cell. This provides the sub-controller with the ability to control the charge cycle of each individual electrochemical cell of several single cell batteries or one or more multiple cell batteries.

The charging auxiliary controller 104 may also extend the run time of a rechargeable battery, such as a lead-acid battery whose depth of discharge is not great, by charging the electrochemical cell (s) over time. · © © © © · * ·

-53 © ·· ··· “interrupt” of the discharge cycle, ie when the electrochemical cell is not in charging mode. For example, the regulator may allow the charging auxiliary regulator to charge one cell or several separate cells during the "interruption" time of the discharge of such cell (s). If the "interruption" time is long enough with respect to the "discharge" run time, which is the active discharge time of a particular electrochemical cell, then the charging auxiliary regulator can keep the cell at least near a fully charged state. If the duty cycle is considerably long and the instrument is operating longer than the acceptable time period so that the charging auxiliary controller is unable to keep the charge of the electrochemical cell above a predetermined voltage level or below a given level of impedance corresponding to the discharge auxiliary controller may terminate the battery discharge cycle when the rechargeable electrochemical cell (s) reach the maximum discharge depth. The charging auxiliary regulator may also prevent overcharging by charging only a cell whose voltage has dropped below a certain predetermined voltage level, such as the rated voltage of the cell, or other means of determining the end of the charging cycle described in this application, or by using other means known in the art. Thus, the controller can effectively optimize the operating time of the rechargeable electrochemical cells based on the fact that during the discharge cycle it does not allow deeper discharge of the cell than the optimum discharge depth and optimizes the charging sequence during the charging cycle.

Alternative charging cycle power supplies may include an external power supply, such as a power cord of the device or an internal power supply, which is another electrochemical cell that is housed in the device or in a rechargeable electrochemical cell assembly of a hybrid battery. For example, the primary cell may be placed in a device assembly or a hybrid battery assembly together with a rechargeable electrochemical cell. A metal-air cell such as a zinc-air cell that has a high energy density but has the ability to supply relatively low voltage levels is a particularly advantageous alternative power supply that can be used to charge the electrochemical cell. Alternatively, an alternative source, such as a fuel cell, may be incorporated into a hybrid battery in which it forms a charging source for the rechargeable electrochemical cell.

4 4 4

4 »

4 4

4 »44 • 4

4

-54 • 44

4 * 44

In addition, the charging auxiliary controller also allows the use of either a contact charging system or a contactless, separate charging system for charging the battery of the present invention.

A preferred embodiment of the battery of the present invention may also include a full charge indicator for informing the user. For example, the charging auxiliary regulator may send visible or audible information signals to the user that the battery is fully charged. Alternatively, the charging auxiliary regulator may provide a text notification of the status of the charging system or device so that such a charging system or device could provide appropriate notifications in accordance with the charging state.

Giant. 15 illustrates a block diagram of a battery according to the present invention which includes a charging auxiliary controller circuit 1504. Charging auxiliary regulator circuit 1504 is preferably incorporated into battery 1510 and takes responsibility for safe and efficient control of the input electrical signal from an external charging source or circuit to optimize the charge cycle of the rechargeable electrochemical cell 1530. Charging auxiliary regulator circuit 1504 controls the input electrical signal from an external charging source based on input voltage control bogies coming from the detection circuit 105 and / or feedback from its own internal detection circuit. For example, the charging sub-controller 1504 could use a voltage control signal V (psi) that defines the internal impedance of the electrochemical cell 1530. The generation of this control signal is provided by a phase linear controller 1571, described in connection with the figures. electrochemical cell 1530 based on cell voltage or charging current, or both cell voltage and charging current plus internal impedance, in addition to the fact that the physical conditions measured within the battery housing 1512 1512, such as hydrogen concentration, oxygen concentration, temperature and / or pressure, the charging auxiliary controller may utilize the optimum charging of the electrochemical cell 1530.

When the voltage at terminals 1520 and 1522 is higher than the voltage of the electrochemical cell 1530, the pulse modulator 1576 of the discharge auxiliary controller 1502 switches the MOSFET M3 with the N-channel and disconnects the MOSFET M4 with the P-channel. electrochemical cell 1530 and MOFSET M4 prevent short circuit between terminals 1520 and 1522. Pulse modulator 1576 can *

• 4 • «• 4

-554 4

44 also disconnect the zero-voltage bias voltage circuit 1580 by sending a voltage control signal to the clock generator 1587 of the zero-voltage bias circuit 1580. Referring to the example of the charge pump illustrated in FIG. 9A, the clock generator 987 will, for example, open switches S1 and S2 and close switches S3 and S4j as a result of which the virtual zero potential output collapses to the negative electrode potential 934 of the electrochemical cell 930. the zero-electric potential comprises an internal actuator such as a charge pump actuator 1592, which operates according to the schematic already explained with respect to the charge pump actuator 992 shown in Fig. 9B, then the internal actuator can directly compare the voltage of terminals 1520 and 1522 8 with the electrochemical cell 1530; turn off the bias voltage circuit 1580 with zero electrical potential when the voltage across terminal 1520 to terminal 1522 is greater than the voltage of the electrochemical cell 1530. based on direct control of the clock generator 1587. This causes the virtual output to crash zero potential to negative electrode potential 1534 of electrochemical cell 1530.

In a preferred embodiment of the battery of the present invention, the auxiliary charge controller circuit 1504 utilizes internal impedance information to determine the most efficient AC signal components, including amplitude, frequency, falling and rising edges, etc. The auxiliary controller thus minimizes internal charging dynamics and static losses of the electrochemical cell. and controls the fastest possible charging ratio of a particular electrochemical cell. In addition, sensors for detecting physical conditions, such as hydrogen and oxygen concentration, temperature, pressure, etc., may provide the possibility of further optimizing the charging state.

When the charging auxiliary regulator 1504 detects that the electrochemical cell has been fully charged, the charging auxiliary regulator disconnects the MOSFET M3 with a N-channel. This detaches the electrochemical cell 1530 from terminals 1520 and 1522 of housing 1512 and subsequently from the external charging source or circuit. .

The use of internal impedance to control the charging of the electrochemical cell 1530 allows for more optimal charging of the electrochemical cell 1530. The placement of the charging auxiliary controller 1504 in each housing 1512 allows more precise control of the charging of the individual electrochemical cells 1530 by several single cell or multi cell batteries.

• • • «« «

-56 • ·· «* 9 · ···

The electrochemical cells 1530 can be charged in series and / or parallel wiring with other electrochemical cells 1530. If the cells are charged in series, then the charging auxiliary controller 1504 can create a path with a high impedance between the terminals so that when the electrochemical cell 1530 is fully charged the auxiliary regulator 1504 distributes the charging current to the other cells that are in series with such a cell 1530. However, if the cells are in parallel connection, the charging auxiliary regulator 1504 may disconnect each electrochemical cell 1530 from the charging current. The placement of the regulator in each electrochemical cell of a multi-cell battery allows each cell to be charged with the same charging current, the flow of which controls each regulator in each cell, so that the charging process is optimal regardless of the electrochemical nature of the cell. This charging auxiliary regulator can also control the charging of several cells in a hybrid battery despite the fact that the cells have different nominal voltages.

Giant. 16 illustrates an embodiment of a charging auxiliary controller circuit 1504 that may be used in the battery of the present invention shown in FIG. 15. In this embodiment, the charging auxiliary controller circuit 1604 includes a universal charging circuit 1677, a pulse circuit 1678 and a charging state controller 1679. The charge state controller 1679 utilizes a pulse circuit 1678 to generate a test current L and a test voltage Y for the electrodes 1532 and 1534 of the electrochemical cell 1530. As noted with reference to FIG. 13, the phase linear actuator 1571 detects the phase shift between the test current L and the test voltage V ,. The pulse circuit 1678 preferably comprises a pulse driver 1668 and a MOSFET M1 with channel type N. The driver 1668 generates a high-frequency control pulse signal that controls the gate of the MOSFET M1. The test current I, passes through the MOSFET M1 and the phase linear actuator 1571 detects the phase shift angle between the test current, the test current L and the test voltage V1. Phase linear actuator 1571 sends a voltage control signal (Vfpsi). which is linearly proportional to the phase shift between the alternating components of the cell voltage and the current drawn from the electrochemical cell 1530, to the charging state control device 1679. The charge state control device 1679 uses this control signal from the phase linear controller 1571 to control the AC components of the signal shape. After the electrochemical cell 1530 is fully charged, the pulse modulator 1576 disconnects the MOSFET M3. as a result, the electrochemical cell 1530 disconnects from the terminals 1520 and 1522 of the housing 1512.

and φ φφφ φ φ φ φ φφ φφφ

-57φφφ φ φ «

Φ · φφφ • φφ φ · ··

Giant. 17 shows an alternative embodiment of the charging auxiliary controller circuit shown in FIG. 15, which allows separate charging of the electrochemical cell 1530 without any mechanical contact between the external charging circuit and the battery 1510 of the present invention. In this embodiment, the charging auxiliary winding circuit 1704 includes a transformer secondary coil for charging the electrochemical cell 1530. The external charging source comprises a transformer primary winding that can cooperate with the secondary winding of the charging auxiliary regulator circuit 1704 due to a frictionless air link. For example, the battery of the present invention may have a winding that is made by printing a wire on the battery label 1510 or placed inside the housing, or another battery that includes a secondary winding of the charging transformer may be used. The charging circuit of this embodiment preferably operates at a frequency in the range of about 20 kHz to about 100 kHz, more preferably in the range of about 40 kHz to about 60 kHz, with a frequency of about 50 kHz being most preferred. The signal from the external charging source drives the secondary winding 1798 of the charging auxiliary controller circuit 1704 via the primary winding of the external charging source. The charging state controller 1794 controls the universal charging circuit 1777 to optimize the charging cycle of the rechargeable electrochemical cell 1530. If the external charging circuit operates at a frequency of approximately 50 kHz, then the transformer should have a sufficient range to allow charging the electrochemical cell at 1 to 3 inches (i.e. 2.54 to 7.62 cm) from the battery of the present invention, and should allow charging of the electric cell under the conditions of its placement without removing the battery from the electrical or electronic device or device. This provides a significant advantage over other batteries that must be removed from the device. For example, a battery in a surgically implanted device, such as a pacemaker, can be charged without surgically removing the battery from the patient's body. Emergency auxiliary regulator

The controller may also perform an emergency or rescue function to ensure that the electrochemical cell is disconnected from the housing terminals when one or more of the cell safety conditions are violated, and / or provides the electrochemical cell connection directly to the output terminals bypassing the converter when the current required by the load exceeds the converter capability, but is still within the operating range of the converter. · · · · · · · · · · · · · · ·

-58 current of a particular electrochemical cell. The regulator may include an independent emergency auxiliary regulator that detects such states of breach of safety, including short circuit, reverse polarity, overcharging, excessive discharge high temperature, pressure and hydrogen concentration, and which electronically disconnects the electrochemical cell from the battery terminals. The emergency functions may alternatively be performed by the discharge auxiliary controller circuit and / or the charging auxiliary controller circuit, or said controller may comprise a separate detection circuit that sends signals to the discharge auxiliary controller and / or the charging auxiliary controller to disconnect the electrochemical cell from the battery terminals. .

Claims (10)

PATENT CLAIMS A battery having a built-in controller, comprising (a) a housing having a positive terminal and a negative terminal; (b) a battery cell disposed in said housing, said cell having a positive electrode and a negative electrode and a cell voltage that is measured transversely from said positive electrode to said negative electrode of said cell; (c) a controller that is electrically connected between said electrodes of said cell and said terminals of said housing for converting the cell voltage to an output voltage transversely from the positive terminal to the negative terminal of the housing; and (d) a circuit responsive to a predetermined state of said battery, said circuit having the ability to control the disconnection of the controller output voltage from the housing terminals upon detecting said predetermined state. 2. A battery having a built-in controller according to claim 1, wherein said circuit is part of the controller and has the ability to control the disconnection of the controller output voltage from said positive terminal and negative terminal of the housing by detecting said predetermined condition. A battery having a built-in controller according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said circuit comprises a sensor for detecting an electric current, which is connected to said cell for the purpose of measuring the electric current of the cell, including a short-circuit or reverse polarity state, based on the detection activity of the electric current detection sensor, and disconnecting the controller output voltage in response to detecting a predetermined state. Battery having a built-in controller according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the circuit has the ability to control cell voltage monitoring and / or cell impedance monitoring, the circuit having the ability to respond to a predetermined state, including a drop state cell voltage below a predetermined voltage level and state in which the cell's impedance exceeds a predetermined impedance, when this φφφφφφφφφφφφφφφ * The circuit disconnects the output voltage of the controller as a result of detecting a predetermined condition in order to prevent over-discharge of the cell overall. A battery having a built-in controller according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the circuit has the ability to control cell voltage monitoring, the circuit has the ability to respond to a predetermined state, including a state of such cell voltage increase that exceeds a predetermined voltage level, wherein the circuit disconnects the output voltage of the controller as a result of detecting a predetermined condition to prevent overall cell over-discharge. A battery having a built-in controller according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the circuit has the ability to control pressure monitoring within said housing, said circuit having the ability to respond to a predetermined condition, including such pressure increase that exceeds a predetermined pressure increase limit, wherein the circuit disconnects the controller output voltage as a result of detecting a predetermined condition. A battery having a built-in controller according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that said circuit has the ability to monitor the hydrogen concentration inside said housing, said circuit having the ability to respond to a predetermined condition, including such an increase in hydrogen concentration which exceeds a predetermined hydrogen concentration limit, the circuit disconnecting the controller output voltage as a result of detecting a predetermined condition. Battery having a built-in controller according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said circuit has the ability to monitor the temperature inside said housing, said circuit having the ability to respond to a predetermined condition, including such temperature increase that exceeds a predetermined temperature temperature limit, when this circuit disconnects the output voltage of the controller as a result of detecting a predetermined condition. • Φ · Φ · φ Φ Φ Φ · φ ΦΦΦΦ ΦΦΦ ·· * · -61 • φφφ · · · φ »· φ M4 ΦΦ ΦΦΦ A battery having a built-in controller according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said predetermined state also includes a state in which the electric current required by the load to which the battery is connected excessively exceeds the capabilities of the controller. by disconnecting the output voltage of the controller, it still has the ability to control the connection of the cell directly to said housing terminals and thereby generate cell voltage at the housing terminals. A method of extending a useful battery life having a built-in controller, comprising the steps of (a) assembling a battery comprising (i) a housing having a positive terminal and a negative terminal; (ii) a battery cell disposed in said housing, said cell having a positive electrode and a negative electrode and a cell voltage that is measured transversely from said positive electrode to said negative electrode of said cell; (b) electrically connecting a regulator between said electrodes of said cell and said terminals of said cell for converting the cell voltage to an output voltage transversely from the positive terminal to the negative terminal of the housing; and (c) disconnecting the controller output voltage from the housing terminals in response to detecting a predetermined battery condition.