18184985. DETERMINING A STATE OF A FUSE simplified abstract (Caterpillar Inc.)

From WikiPatents
Jump to navigation Jump to search

DETERMINING A STATE OF A FUSE

Organization Name

Caterpillar Inc.

Inventor(s)

Srihari Ranganathan N of Coimbatore (IN)

V. Kameswara Kiran Kumar Rajala of Kakinada (IN)

Stephen Adam Edwards of Peterborough (GB)

James Kieran Mccloskey of Stanford (GB)

Joseph Oluwagbeminiyi Oyekan of Peterborough (GB)

DETERMINING A STATE OF A FUSE - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18184985 titled 'DETERMINING A STATE OF A FUSE

Simplified Explanation

The patent application describes a method for determining the state of a fuse in a battery pack by changing the configuration of parallel arrangements of battery cells and resistors and measuring the current passing through the strings.

  • The battery pack includes a first string with a fuse, parallel arrangements with battery cells and resistors, and a first ammeter.
  • The method involves changing the parallel arrangement to a connected state, measuring the current, and determining if the fuse is blown based on the current change not exceeding a threshold.

Key Features and Innovation

  • Method for determining the state of a fuse in a battery pack.
  • Utilizes parallel arrangements of battery cells and resistors.
  • Measures current passing through the strings to determine fuse status.

Potential Applications

  • Battery management systems.
  • Electric vehicles.
  • Energy storage systems.

Problems Solved

  • Efficient method for detecting blown fuses in battery packs.
  • Prevents potential safety hazards due to faulty fuses.

Benefits

  • Improved battery pack safety.
  • Enhanced battery management capabilities.
  • Cost-effective maintenance of battery systems.

Commercial Applications

Electric vehicle manufacturers can use this technology to ensure the safety and efficiency of their battery packs, leading to increased consumer trust and market competitiveness.

Questions about the Technology

1. How does this method improve battery pack safety? 2. What are the potential cost savings for companies implementing this technology?

Frequently Updated Research

Research on battery management systems and safety protocols in electric vehicles may provide further insights into the applications of this technology.


Original Abstract Submitted

A method for determining a state of a fuse in a battery pack is provided. The battery pack comprises a first string comprising a first string fuse; at least one parallel arrangement comprising a battery cell and a resistor; and a first ammeter. The parallel arrangement is configured to be changeable between a connected state wherein the resistor is connected in parallel to the battery cell and a disconnected state wherein the resistor is disconnected from the battery cell. A second string comprising at least one battery cell is connected in parallel to the first string. The method comprises changing the at least one parallel arrangement of the first string to the connected state, and measuring a current passing through the first string. In an event that the change in the first current does not exceed a threshold, the first string fuse is in a blown state.