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 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A battery powered utilization device comprising:a device housing;a battery pack;monitoring circuitry for monitoring operational battery pack characteristics and present battery pack conditions;memory located in said battery pack for storing said operational battery pack

[ What is claimed is:] [1.]1. A battery powered utilization device comprising:a device housing;a battery pack;monitoring circuitry for monitoring operational battery pack characteristics and present battery pack conditions;memory located in said battery pack for storing said operational battery pack characteristics as battery pack data; anda processor located in the device housing for receiving said present battery pack conditions and said battery pack data, said processor controlling operational discharge of said battery pack by causing circuitry to be powered down when it is not needed.