Abstract: An individual cell charger and method of using it are disclosed. The voltage of each individual battery cell of a series connected cell configuration, is measured. A controlled power source charges the cells individually at an initial voltage. The voltage on each individual one of the charged cells is subsequently measured by a battery management system. The voltage of the controlled power source is incrementally increased to charge the cells individually at an incrementally higher voltage. The measuring and charging of each individual cell is repeated until the voltage on at least one of the cells reaches a predetermined voltage. Once the voltage on at least one of the cells reaches a predetermined voltage, the measuring and charging each individual cell continues at substantially the same last incremental voltage.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the intelligent management of multi-cell battery pack. A battery management system which may be mounted on board a vehicle facilitates battery management including monitoring the state of charge of the battery pack. Wireless communication equipment facilitate communication between the battery management system to a remote location. A battery charger controlled by the battery management system charges individual cells of the battery pack.

Abstract: A battery charging system and method, includes a high voltage charger for charging a group or string of series connected battery cells, and a group of individual cell chargers for charging individual ones of the cells. The charging technique includes detecting at least one cell being charged to a predetermined voltage, and then inhibiting the high voltage charger from further charging any of the cells. The individual cell chargers charge individual ones of the cells, except the at least one cell charged to the predetermined voltage.