초록 ▼

In an exemplary embodiment, a battery conditioning system monitors battery conditioning and includes a memory for storing data based thereon; for example, data may be stored representative of available battery capacity as measured during a deep discharge cycle. With a microprocessor monitoring batte

In an exemplary embodiment, a battery conditioning system monitors battery conditioning and includes a memory for storing data based thereon; for example, data may be stored representative of available battery capacity as measured during a deep discharge cycle. With a microprocessor monitoring battery operation of a portable unit, a measure of remaining battery capacity can be calculated and displayed. Where the microprocessor and battery conditioning system memory are permanently secured to the battery so as to receive operating power therefrom during storage and handling, the performance of a given battery in actual use can be accurately judged since the battery system can itself maintain a count of accumulated hours of use and other relevant parameters. In the case of a nonportable conditioning system, two-way communication may be established with a memory associated with the portable unit so that the portable unit can transmit to the conditioning system information concerning battery parameters (e.g. rated battery capacity) and/or battery usage (e.g. numbers of shallow discharge and recharge cycles), and after a conditioning operation, the conditioning system can transmit to the portable unit a measured value of battery capacity, for example. A battery pack having memory stores battery history and identifying data to be retrieved by a portable battery powered device. Battery status information may be utilized in conjunction with characteristic battery history data in order to optimize charging and discharging functions and to maximize the useful life of a battery pack.

대표청구항 ▼

[ I claim:] [1.] A method of providing operational power to a battery powered utilization device, said method comprising:a) monitoring operational battery pack characteristics;b) storing said characteristics in an electronic memory device contained within said battery pack as battery pack data;c) mo

[ I claim:] [1.] A method of providing operational power to a battery powered utilization device, said method comprising:a) monitoring operational battery pack characteristics;b) storing said characteristics in an electronic memory device contained within said battery pack as battery pack data;c) monitoring present battery pack conditions;d) retrieving said battery pack data;e) communicating said present battery pack conditions and said battery pack data to said battery powered utilization device; andf) controlling by said portable utilization device, operational discharge of the battery pack, said controlling procedure comprising powering down circuitry when it is not needed.