Charge exchange process for functional testing of accumulator systems

摘要

A method of testing the functioning capability of accumulators in systems where two or more cells are electrically connected uses the energy taken from one cell to test load the other. The electrical behaviour of both the battery discharging the load and the battery being charged provide the criteria for judging the accumulator's fitness for use. During testing the batteries exchange cyclically the charging and discharging roles. Thus there is no extra charge or increased energy consumption. The method is suitable for vehicle starter motors and for portable computers or telephones, and helps to prolong battery life.