Abstract: A system and method of balancing state of charge among plural series connected electrical energy storage unit is provided. Individual storage units are selectively coupled by semiconductor switches for monitoring and balancing state of charge. When the state of charge of a selected unit is greater than a target state of charge, energy is transferred from the selected unit to the string of storage units, such that the state of charge of the selected unit converges toward the target state of charge. Conversely, when the state of charge of a selected unit is less than a target state of charge, energy is transferred from the string of storage units to the selected unit, such that the state of charge of the selected unit converges toward the target state of charge.

Abstract: A system and method for determining and balancing state of charge among plural series connected electrical energy storage units is provided. State of change of a selected storage unit in a string of storage units is determined by (i) applying a non-dissipative load to the selected storage unit, resulting in an energy transfer between the selected storage unit and the string of electrical energy storage units through the non-dissipative load and (ii) determining the state of charge of the selected unit from voltage and current data of the selected storage unit resulting from the energy transfer. When the state of charge of the selected unit is different than a target state of charge, energy can be transferred between the selected unit and the string of storage units, such that the state of charge of the selected unit converges toward the target state of charge.

Abstract: A beverage dispenser providing access to beverage containers in a refrigerator. Containers may be accessed through the door and may be obtained without opening the door of the refrigerator. Multiple beverage container types may be supplied.