RECHARGEABLE BATTERY WITH SERIES-CONNECTED, ASYMMETRIC BANKS

摘要

The disclosed embodiments provide a system that balances voltages between battery banks. This system includes a plurality of asymmetric battery banks having differing capacities electrically connected to each other through a series connection. The system also includes a charging circuit configured to charge the plurality of asymmetric battery banks through the series connection. To balance voltages between the battery banks, the system includes a balancing mechanism comprising switching circuitry and an additional switching bank. This balancing mechanism equalizes voltages among the plurality of asymmetric battery banks by using the switching bank to transfer charge among the plurality of asymmetric battery banks during operation of the system, including during charging, discharging, and/or resting.

主权项

1. A rechargeable battery system, comprising:
a plurality of asymmetric battery banks having differing capacities electrically connected to each other through a series connection; a charging circuit configured to charge the plurality of asymmetric battery banks through the series connection; and a balancing mechanism comprising switching circuitry and an additional switching bank, wherein the balancing mechanism equalizes voltages among the plurality of asymmetric battery banks by using the switching bank to transfer charge among the plurality of asymmetric battery banks during operation of the system, including during charging and/or discharging.