초록 ▼

An apparatus and method for regulating the charge voltage of a number of electrochemical cells connected in series is disclosed. Equalization circuitry is provided to control the amount of charge current supplied to individual electrochemical cells included within the series string of electrochemica

An apparatus and method for regulating the charge voltage of a number of electrochemical cells connected in series is disclosed. Equalization circuitry is provided to control the amount of charge current supplied to individual electrochemical cells included within the series string of electrochemical cells without interrupting the flow of charge current through the series string. The equalization circuitry balances the potential of each of the electrochemical cells to within a pre-determined voltage setpoint tolerance during charging, and, if necessary, prior to initiating charging. Equalization of cell potentials may be effected toward the end of a charge cycle or throughout the charge cycle. Overcharge protection is also provided for each of the electrochemical cells coupled to the series connection. During a discharge mode of operation in accordance with one embodiment, the equalization circuitry is substantially non-conductive with respect to the flow of discharge current from the series string of electrochemical cells. In accordance with another embodiment, equalization of the series string of cells is effected during a discharge cycle.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What we claim is:] [1.] A method of charging series connected thin-film electrochemical cells, comprising:supplying a charge current to the thin-film electrochemical cells to cause a voltage to increase in each of the series connected electrochemical cells; andcontrolling, in response to the volta

[ What we claim is:] [1.] A method of charging series connected thin-film electrochemical cells, comprising:supplying a charge current to the thin-film electrochemical cells to cause a voltage to increase in each of the series connected electrochemical cells; andcontrolling, in response to the voltage of a particular series connected electrochemical cell reaching a voltage limit, the charge current through the particular electrochemical cell without interrupting the charge current supplied to other ones of the electrochemical cells.