Abstract: A two-stage power supply start up circuit is provided for pulse width modulator controllers that operate at a low steady state voltage. The invention provides for high-energy storage in low-capacitance start up capacitors by cascading switched start up stages, thereby allowing for the utilization of smaller, less expensive components. The invention utilizes a three-phase start up process with positive feedback ensuring both reliable start-up and steady state operation. The three phases are as "first phase start-up", which provides power to the control circuit, "second phase start-up", where the control chip starts switching, and "steady state", where the power supply runs in its normal mode.

Abstract: A one-piece housing for a rectangular battery cell with circuitry disposed on its side is described. The top side of the housing is a protective ledge, covering only the circuitry disposed on the side of the battery cell, where the ledge lies in or below the imaginary plane formed by the top surface of the cell. The housing protects the battery circuitry, is easier to manufacture than a two-part housing, is lighter than a two-part housing, and has a lower profile.

Abstract: Described is battery comprising a flexible pouch with two compartments wherein an electrochemical device is in the first compartment and the second compartment is empty. Channels for the conduction of gas connect the first and second compartments. When gases are formed during the initial charge and discharge cycles of the electrochemical device, the compartment containing the electrochemical device can be pressed on, driving the gas into the second, empty, compartment. The area between the two compartments can be sealed, and the second compartment cut off. This provides an easy, economical way of ridding an electrochemical device, such as a lithium-ion polymer cell of excess gases formed during the initial charge and discharge cycles.

Abstract: An electronic device (100) includes electrical circuitry (130), a housing (105) in which the electronic circuitry (130) is situated, a cover (110) for enclosing the electrical circuitry (130) within the housing (105), and a tamper proof safety circuit (120) coupled to the electrical circuitry (130) for rendering the electronic device (100) inoperable when the housing (105) and cover (110) are disassembled.

Abstract: An electrode coating with improved adhesion to substrates comprises small particles of an active material that are preferentially distributed at the interface with the supporting substrate.

Abstract: A foil battery packaging containing a battery cell is described wherein the tab comprises a strong metal tab secured to the packaging, and wherein the strong metal tab is electrically connected to a weak metal tab of the battery cell. The packaging may also comprise a metal reinforcing strip secured to the strong metal tab, the weak metal tab, and the battery packaging.

Abstract: A safety cover for a battery comprises elastic pacts fixed to the safety cover that wipe the electrical contacts of the battery to which the safety cover is attached when the safety cover is placed on or removed from the battery