The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Oct. 08, 2002
Filed:
Nov. 27, 2000
Wellington Y. Kwok, Fishers, IN (US);
Delphi Technologies, Inc., Troy, MI (US);
Abstract
An apparatus and method for providing enhanced charging efficiency and a reduction in charge system cost when charging segmented batteries. A current switching device routes charging current from a charge source to a selected segment of the battery, while the remaining segments are in a relaxation mode and are not receiving charge current. A segment selection device periodically reconfigures the current switching device to route charging current to another segment of the battery. As a result, each of the series-connected cells of the battery are subject to alternating charging and relaxation periods until the battery has achieved a desired state of charge.