Abstract: A method and apparatus for completely discharging a LiSO2 battery which is not prone to self-activation and which does not require special tools for activation. In the present invention, as switch is formed of a switch contact (e.g,. a spring contact) biased toward a contact pad. When the contact and contact pad meet, the discharge circuit of the complete discharge device (CDD) is activated. Under normal conditions, an elongated insulative strip projects between the switch contact and the contact pad and extends through the casing of the battery. The extension allows the strip to be pulled out from the exterior of the casing. Also under normal conditions, the portion of the strip extending through the casing is folded over and covered with a peel-off label. When it is desired to activate the complete discharge device, the peel-off label is removed to expose the end of the strip, and the strip can be withdrawn from the casing. This then allows the contact and the contact pad to touch and activate the CDD.

Abstract: A smart charge connector is provided incorporating a switching feature allowing the cells in a multi-cell battery to be uniformly charged. When engaged with a charger, the smart connector will connect the cells in parallel so that all cells within the same battery will be charged uniformly to the same voltage level eliminating the uneven charging that occurs when cells are charged in series connected strings. During normal operation the connector connects the cells of the battery in series to supply a battery output voltage. However, when the connector is engaged with a charger, the cells are connected in parallel to be charged by a source of electrical power at a voltage higher than the battery output voltage. The connector includes a number of switch contacts that are activated when the connector is engaged with the charger allowing the cells to be charged in parallel. The switch contacts automatically reconnect the cells in series upon removal of the charger.