Battery State Of Charge Detector With Rapid Charging Capability And Method

Abstract

A battery state of charge (SOC) detector for rapid charging and method each provide an efficient means for formatting, charging, and recharging batteries of various types and ratings. The detector determines the SOC of a battery to be charged and then selects an optimal charging signal profile based on the SOC determination. During the charging process, the detector can continuously monitor battery SOC in order to select appropriate waveforms for the charging signal. The charging signal is a pulse width and amplitude modulated current, voltage or power waveform with the amplitude and pulse width of each charging pulse being selected based upon the detected battery SOC. Predetermined battery parameters, such as equivalent circuit capacitance and resistance, electrochemical overcharge, maximum battery temperature, and maximum battery internal pressure, among others, also can be compared with monitored values during the battery charging process to control the charging signal in order to avoid battery damage. The charging process is continued until detected battery SOC reaches 100% or until charging logic indicates that the charging process should be stopped.