Abstract: A series-parallel battery system with a buffer resistor coupled to each junction of batteries or battery cells. Buffer resistors on the same row are coupled to a measurement node. Terminals of the battery system and the measurement nodes are treated as measurement points that are coupled to a conventional battery management unit. The buffer resistors provide a means for limiting in-rush current and a means for maintaining voltage balance across the row of batteries in the parallel columns of batteries. A control unit in series with each series of batteries monitors current in the series and comprises a switch to deactivate the column when the current exceeds a set of predetermined current levels.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for managing the batteries and the power source as a single combined output to power the load, allowing the system to use power source with reduced maximum power output, reducing system cost and complexity. Furthermore, the switch matrix controller efficiently and dynamically manages the internal power transfer to minimize the charging/discharging cycle of the batteries while ensuring that the power source and the batteries meet changing load power demand. Finally, maximizing charging time and having independent control of each battery increase power efficiency, prolong the operational life of the battery, and increase overall system life.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments of serial multi-vehicle quick charge systems and stations for battery propulsion vehicles and methods thereof. One charging system comprises a charging unit having a plurality of charging circuits configured to be individually switched. The plurality of charging stations is electrically connected to the charging unit through the plurality of charging circuits. A controller is programmed to initiate charging of a vehicle connected to the charging unit through one of the charging stations by signaling a corresponding one of the charging circuits to close, track order of connection of each vehicle connected to the charging unit and initiate charging of each subsequently connected vehicle one at a time based on the order of connection, such that an individual vehicle is charged until a predetermined fraction of battery charge capacity has been obtained before the controller initiates charging of a vehicle next in the order of connection.

Abstract: Charging service vehicles and methods using modular batteries are disclosed. The service vehicles are vehicles having electric vehicle (EV) charging equipment, and removably mounted battery modules or battery module connection points. The battery modules are connected to the EV charging equipment as a source of electrical energy. Some embodiments disclose integrating the EV charging equipment with the vehicle, recharging modules through a distribution grid connection, the manner of discharging the batteries, modes of connecting and disconnecting the modules, the size and weight of the modules, quick-disconnectability of modules, control and monitoring of the modules and charging equipment, and/or ways of connecting modules to the vehicle.

Abstract: A voltage measurement device, includes: a multiplexer that includes a plurality of input terminals at which voltage signals are inputted; a control circuit that performs voltage measurement by acquiring the voltage signal at a selected input terminal from the multiplexer; and a decision circuit that makes a decision as to whether or not an abnormality has occurred, based upon voltage values measured by the control circuit, wherein: the plurality of input terminals include input terminals at which voltage signals from a plurality of subjects of measurement are inputted, and an input terminal at which a potential for diagnosis is inputted; the control circuit, when performing voltage measurement for the plurality of subjects of measurement, measures voltages at the input terminals at which the voltage signals from the plurality of subjects of measurement are inputted, and a voltage at the input terminal at which the potential for diagnosis is inputted.

Abstract: A system and methods for delivering power to a multitude of portable electronic devices is provided. More specifically, the system and methods provide for powering different portable electronic devices through a central charging device. The method of delivering a power supply to a plurality of portable electronic devices includes determining a power requirement for each of the portable computing devices and supplying the power requirement to each of the portable computing devices in a daisy chain configuration using a central power device.

Abstract: A battery pack includes: a first battery cell group including at least one high capacity battery cell; and a second battery cell group including at least one high output battery cell and being coupled in parallel to the first battery cell group, wherein the high output battery cell is configured to output a greater current than the high capacity battery cell, the high capacity battery cell is configured to store a greater amount of electric energy compared to the high output battery cell, and the battery pack is configured to operate in one of operational modes including: a high capacity mode for outputting electric energy stored in the first battery cell group; a high output mode for outputting electric energy stored in the second battery cell group; and a mutual charge mode for charging the first battery cell group or the second battery cell group.

Abstract: An estimation method for residual discharging time of batteries includes the steps of: providing a set of battery-discharge-current intervals and a set of battery-discharge equations, setting the discharge time of each battery-discharge-current intervals at zero; detecting a discharge current, voltage and time of batteries; judging whether the discharge current exceeds all of the battery-discharge-current intervals; selecting one of the battery-discharge-current intervals and the associated battery-discharge equation according to the detected discharge current; calculating an estimation of residual discharging time; accumulating and recording the discharge time; judging whether the discharge voltage is lower than a predetermined value and calculating an estimation error of the residual discharging time; and adjusting parameters of the battery-discharge equation for reducing the estimation error of the residual discharging time if the estimation error is greater than a predetermined error value.

Abstract: A battery pack and a method of operating the battery pack are disclosed. The battery pack includes a plurality of battery cells and is configured to open a terminal of the battery if an open circuit is detected in a line connecting battery cells.

Abstract: An electronic battery tester for testing a storage battery, includes connections configured to couple to terminals of the battery. Measurement circuitry is coupled to the connections and configured to measure a parameter of the battery. An input is configured to receive a battery age input variable. Computation circuitry is configured to provide a test output related to a condition of the battery based upon the measured parameter and the battery age input variable.

Abstract: Rechargeable batteries are used as a power supply in the most varied electrical devices. Parallel to this, connections with other energy sources are frequently available, at least for part of the time, in order to charge the rechargeable batteries during this time. Particularly efficient lithium ion batteries have the problem that short charging/discharging cycles cause them to age just as much as long cycles, during which the user can derive greater benefit from them. It is the task of the invention to ensure particularly effective use of rechargeable batteries during charging/discharging cycles of the most varied duration. This is achieved in that the rechargeable battery is divided into cells, of which only one is charged, in each instance, and the others stand ready to provide energy. If the network voltage stops, charging of the cell just being charged is completed from the other cells.

Abstract: A method of rapidly testing the discharge capacity of a battery comprises discharging the battery at a first discharge rate until a first cutoff potential is reached, relaxing the battery during a first period, discharging the battery at a lower discharge rate until a second cutoff potential is reached and relaxing the battery during a second, longer period. The process is repeated with successively lower discharge rates and successively longer relaxation periods until the battery is substantially exhausted. The cumulative value of all of the discharges is taken as a tested capacity of the battery. Optionally, cleanup charges can be sent to the battery during the relaxation periods and a low-frequency, low-amplitude current can be supplied throughout testing in order to shorten testing time.

Abstract: Discharging a battery is accomplished by: applying an electrical stimulus to the battery; measuring a response to the electrical stimulus, the measured response providing an indication of discharge efficiency of the battery; determining a target frequency corresponding to a maximum discharge efficiency; and then discharging the battery with a discharge current profile comprising current pulses having a frequency component selected based on the determined target frequency.

Abstract: A battery charging method includes generating a plurality of charge profiles, each for a different one of a plurality of batteries, wherein a charge profile indicates a charge current as a function of charge time, and at least two of the charge profiles have a different charge current at a same charge time, and concurrently charging each of the plurality of batteries based on a corresponding charge profile.

Abstract: A secondary battery controller and a method for controlling a secondary battery that can increase the continuous operating time of an apparatus. The secondary battery controller includes a plurality of temperature detectors that detect temperatures of a plurality of secondary batteries; a switching device that connects an output of any one of the plurality of secondary batteries to a load; and a control portion that selects which secondary battery to use from the plurality of secondary batteries and controls the switching device to switch between the secondary batteries based on temperature information of each of the plurality of secondary batteries.

Abstract: Deterioration of a power storage unit included in a vehicle is prevented or the power storage unit that has deteriorated is repaired, and the charge and discharge performance of the power storage unit is maximized to be maintained for a long time. Attention has focused on a reaction product formed on an electrode surface which causes malfunction or deterioration of a power storage unit such as a lithium-ion secondary battery. In the power storage unit used for a vehicle that runs on the power of an electric motor, rapid discharge occurring in the acceleration of the vehicle or the like tends to promote the solidification of the reaction product. The reaction product is removed by application of an electrical stimulus, specifically, an inversion pulse voltage.

Abstract: Improved protection for a rechargeable battery from damage by being discharged below a cut-off voltage is provided. The measured voltage of a battery under load is lower than the measured voltage of the battery under no load. As the cut-off voltage for the battery is specified as a no load voltage, comparing the measured voltage of the battery under load to the cut-off voltage would result in stopping use of the battery with useable charge remaining. Through testing, a set of relationships for estimating the no load voltage of a battery under load has been determined. Using this set of relationships with battery measurements, an estimated no load voltage for the battery is determined. This estimated no load voltage is compared to the cut-off voltage. This allows for full use of the battery while stopping use of the battery when its voltage reaches the cut-off, thereby preventing damage.

Abstract: An apparatus for balancing charge capacity of battery cell includes a voltage sensing/discharging circuit having a battery with cell group, a switching unit for selectively connecting both terminals of each battery cell to conductive lines, capacitor connected to the conductive lines, a voltage amplifying unit connected to both terminals of capacitor via a first switch, and a discharge resistance connected to both terminals of capacitor via a second switch; and a voltage balancing unit for controlling the switching unit in ON state of first switch to connect both terminals of each battery cell to the conductive lines and then sense voltage of each battery cell through the voltage amplifying unit, and controlling the switching unit in OFF state of first switch to charge voltage of balancing-requiring cell to the capacitor and then turning on the second switch to discharge charged voltage of capacitor through the discharge resistance.

Abstract: Rechargeable battery systems and rechargeable battery system operational methods are described. According to one aspect, a rechargeable battery system includes a plurality of rechargeable battery modules coupled between a plurality of terminals, wherein the rechargeable battery modules individually comprise a plurality of rechargeable battery cells and charge balancing circuitry configured to implement, for individual ones of the rechargeable battery modules, first charge balancing operations to increase the balancing of states of charge of the rechargeable battery cells of individual ones of the rechargeable battery modules, and to implement second charge balancing operations to increase the balancing of states of charge of the rechargeable battery modules with respect to one another.

Abstract: A secondary battery charging method includes the step of determining whether to perform one of a first charging control method of performing constant current charging and constant voltage charging and a second charging control method of performing only the constant current charging according to information stored in a plurality of secondary batteries including a compound oxide particle with an olivine crystal structure. The first charging control method includes the steps of performing the constant current charging of the secondary batteries, performing the constant voltage charging, determining whether voltage variation amounts of the plurality of secondary batteries are a value equal to or greater than a first set value, and storing information and firstly terminating the charging. The second charging control method includes the steps of starting the constant current charging of the plurality of secondary batteries connected to each other in series, and secondly terminating the constant current charging.

Abstract: An electric power supply system has, as multiple storage units, an output type battery of high output and small capacity and a capacity type battery of low output and large capacity. The charge-discharge electric power of each of the storage units is controlled by a controller according to a charge-discharge schedule for a prediction period. Based on a predicted power consumption schedule, a predicted power generation schedule, and a charge-discharge characteristic of each of the storage units, the controller determines a charge-discharge schedule with regards to an optimal evaluation index, and controls the storage units in accordance with the charge-discharge schedule.

Abstract: A battery unit balancing system comprises a discharging circuit and means for connecting the discharging circuit to a battery unit. The discharging circuit is configured such that it is automatically activated, when a voltage of the battery unit exceeds a predetermined threshold, to draw a constant discharging current from the battery unit until the voltage of the battery unit falls below the predetermined threshold.

Abstract: A battery pack and a method of controlling the same is disclosed. The battery pack determines a cell deviation after the battery pack is fully charged or over-discharged, and thus the battery pack can reduce the cell deviation by performing cell balancing.

Abstract: A battery gas discharge system is provided having a floorpan with an outlet and a fastener aperture. The outlet and the fastener aperture are laterally spaced from each other. The system also includes a battery module with a base for resting upon the floorpan. An attachment aperture and a vent aperture are formed through the base. The attachment aperture and the vent aperture are laterally spaced from each other. A gas discharge mechanism defines a passageway for gas discharge between the battery module and the vent aperture. The gas discharge mechanism includes a vent port that is coupled to the vent aperture and sized for receiving discharged gas. The vent port is adapted for mating with and forming a seal about the outlet by securing the base to the floorpan during assembly.

Abstract: A method for driving an electronic device stably is provided. The electronic device includes a power supply circuit to which power is fed by power sequentially supplied from a contactless power feeding device, and a plurality of loads to which power is sequentially supplied from the power supply circuit. Further, a method for driving an electronic device stably is provided. The electronic device includes a power supply circuit to which power is fed by power supplied from a contactless power feeding device, and one or more loads to which the power supply circuit repeatedly supplies power. The power supply potential Vdd is restored to more than or equal to 90% of the initial potential Vdd0 within an interval in which the power supply circuit is not connected to a load; then, the next load may be connected to the power supply circuit, and may be driven.

Abstract: Systems and methods for management of a backup power system are described herein. At least one illustrative embodiment includes a backup power system configured to couple to a power source including a plurality of batteries, each comprising one or more cells, used to provide power if the power source fails, and processing logic coupled to the batteries and configured to monitor the state of each of the plurality of batteries and control the charging and discharging of each of the plurality of batteries. If the power source has not failed, the processing logic repeatedly and sequentially causes each battery to discharge while at least one of the remaining batteries remains fully charged, and monitors the power provided by the discharging battery. The processing logic determines the available energy stored in each fully charged battery based upon the power provided by the discharging battery during the time it takes to discharge.

Abstract: A system for balancing a plurality of battery pack system modules connected in series may include in each battery pack system module a controller configured to detect that the first system module has reached a first state of charge; activate the first charge switch to physically disconnect and to prevent further charging of the first system module after detecting the first state of charge; discharge the plurality of cells after activating the first charge switch to balance the first system module with a second system module coupled to the first system module; de-activate the first charge switch after discharging the plurality of battery cells; and charge the plurality of cells after de-activating the first charge switch.

Abstract: A battery pack usable as a power source of an electric device, is disclosed, in which battery modules are in series; each battery module is configured to include battery cells in series; a discharge controller controls discharge power which is supplied from the battery modules to the electric device; a modulator modulates a voltage of each module between a high voltage and a low voltage which is higher than zero and lower than the high voltage; the high voltage and the low voltage are set to allow a load device of the electric device to operate by the high voltage, and to allow the load device not to operate by the low voltage; and the discharge controller operates by the battery modules, irrespective of whether each module outputs the high voltage or the low voltage.

Abstract: In a power converter, a primary winding receives an input power. In addition, multiple secondary windings transform the input power into multiple charging currents to charge a set of cells via a set of paths. The multiple secondary windings further balance the set of cells based on the charging currents. A ratio between a first turn number of a first secondary winding of the secondary windings and a second turn number of a second secondary winding of the secondary windings is determined by a nominal voltage ratio between two corresponding cells of the set of cells.

Abstract: A vehicle battery diagnosis system diagnoses the state of use of a battery of a vehicle, and includes: an information accumulation portion that accumulates diagnostic information that includes a use condition regarding the battery; a control plan presentation portion that presents a plurality of control plans about the vehicle for increasing the service life of the battery on the basis of the diagnostic information; and an information changing portion that changes control information regarding the control of the vehicle which is retained in a vehicle-mounted ECU of the vehicle so that the control information corresponds to a control plan selected from the plurality of control plans.

Abstract: A method of rapidly testing the discharge capacity of a battery comprises discharging the battery at a first discharge rate until a first cutoff potential is reached, relaxing the battery during a first period, discharging the battery at a lower discharge rate until a second cutoff potential is reached and relaxing the battery during a second, longer period. The process is repeated with successively lower discharge rates and successively longer relaxation periods until the battery is substantially exhausted. The cumulative value of all of the discharges is taken as a tested capacity of the battery. Optionally, cleanup charges can be sent to the battery during the relaxation periods and a low-frequency, low-amplitude current can be supplied throughout testing in order to shorten testing time.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus for providing a homopolar generator charger with an integral rechargeable battery. A method is provided for converting rotational kinetic energy to electrical energy for charging one or more battery cells. The method can include rotating, by a shaft, a rotor in a magnetic flux field to generate current, wherein the rotor comprises an electrically conductive portion having an inner diameter conductive connection surface and an outer diameter conductive connection surface, and wherein a voltage potential is induced between the inner and outer diameter connection surfaces upon rotation in the magnetic flux field. The method can also include selectively coupling the generated current from the rotating rotor to terminals of the one or more battery cells.

Abstract: A charging method and system. The method includes detecting and monitoring by a computer processor, a frequency signal associated with an input voltage signal used for powering power consumption devices at a first specified location. The computer processor generates frequency level data associated with the monitoring. The computer processor receives a request to enable a charging process for charging a rechargeable power source and power source data associated with the rechargeable power source and a user. In response to the request, the computer processor enables a customized charging process associated with charging the rechargeable power source based on the frequency level data and/or the power source data.

Abstract: A portable apparatus includes a system configured to receive a system current and perform a function, a charging battery configured to be charged with a charging battery current and supply power to the system, and a power management circuit configured to receive an externally supplied power, supply the system current to the system, and supply the charging battery current to the charging battery based on a sensed level of the system current, wherein the charging battery current decreases in proportion to the system current.

Abstract: A battery cell tab monitoring apparatus includes a conductive element electrically connected between two battery cells. The conductive element is connected to a sensing circuit including a pull-down current source connected to pull current from the conductive element and/or a pull-up current source connected to drive current into the conductive element. A voltage measuring circuit is connected to sense voltages during operation of the pull-down current source and the pull-up current source to be used to determine the status of the conductive element. For instance, voltages beyond certain fixed or variable thresholds indicate that the conductive element is flexing or cracking, which can be a precursor to its breaking. Voltages beyond other fixed or variable thresholds indicate that the conductive element is fully disconnected. The current sources used to push and pull the sensing currents may be used to bring the battery cells into balance when an imbalance is detected.

Abstract: A personal solar appliance (PSA) is presented that collects and stores solar energy. A method of charging a battery from a solar cell according to some embodiments is presented that includes applying power from a bootstrap circuit when the battery has a very low state of charge or the solar cell has output below a threshold; and applying power from a maximum power point circuit when the battery and the solar cell provide power above the threshold.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention, relating to the field of communications, provide a power supply method, a power supply device, and a base station, which, while satisfying use requirements of a backup power source, prolong the life cycle of a lead acid battery, reduce the set capacity of the original lead acid battery, and thereby reduce investment costs. The method includes: receiving currents supplied by a power generation apparatus, distributing the currents supplied by the power generation apparatus to a load and a lithium ion battery to ensure normal running of the load and enable the lithium ion battery to be charged, and after the lithium ion battery is fully charge, distributing the currents supplied by the power generation apparatus to the lead acid battery so that the lead acid battery is charged.

Abstract: A charging device has a charging unit and a control unit. The charging unit charges a battery pack the battery pack being either a first type or a second type of battery pack. The first type of battery pack includes a single battery cell or a first plurality of battery cells connected in series. The second type of battery pack includes a single battery unit or a second plurality of battery units connected in series. Each battery unit includes at least two battery cells connected in parallel. The control unit controls the charging unit to control at least one of a charging current flowing through the battery pack and a charging voltage applied across the battery pack, depending on the battery pack to be charged.

Abstract: A battery voltage equalizer circuit for equalizing battery voltages among a plurality of battery cells in a serial connection is disclosed. The battery voltage equalizer circuit includes a battery voltage equalizer unit having a plurality of equalizer parts, wherein each equalizer part, coupled to a positive terminal and a negative terminal of a corresponding battery cell, is conducted with an equalization current upon a receipt of an equalization signal, and a battery voltage detector unit, coupled to the positive and negative terminals of the plurality of battery cells, generates the equalization signal so as to conduct the battery voltage equalizer unit as long as a voltage of any one of the battery cells reaches an equalization voltage.

Abstract: A power bank apparatus with speaker combines the function of power bank and the function of speaker. The power bank apparatus not only charges the portable electronic apparatuses but also supplies power to the internal speaker. The voice or music of the portable electronic apparatus is amplified by the speaker of the power bank apparatus to improve the quality of the voice or music.

Abstract: A battery charger for charging a plurality of batteries includes a plurality of charge managers and a cross-over controller coupled to the charge managers. The charge managers are coupled to a common power source that has a finite maximum available current. The cross-over controller is configured to continuously determine the charge current that is applied to one of the batteries by one of the charge managers, and to direct another one of the charge managers to apply to another one of the batteries a charge current that is based on the determined charge current. The total of the determined charge current that is applied to the one battery and the charge current that is applied to the other battery (prior to when the voltage across the other battery reaches a rated value) is continuously substantially equal to the maximum available current.

Abstract: A multiple cell battery charger configured with a parallel topography is disclosed. In accordance with an important aspect of the invention, the multiple cell battery charger requires fewer active components than known battery chargers while at the same time protecting multiple battery cells from overcharge and discharge. The multiple cell battery charger in accordance with the present invention is a constant voltage battery charger that includes a regulator for providing a regulated source of direct current (DC) voltage to the battery cells to be charged. In accordance with the present invention, each battery cell is connected in series with a switching device, such as a field effect transistor (FET) and optionally a current sensing device. In a charging mode, the serially connected FET conducts, thus enabling the battery cell to be charged. The battery voltage is sensed by a microprocessor.

Abstract: A four-stage power distribution system (100) includes (i) a first stage (110) having an inverter (112) that provides power to a frequency drive (114) and an electric motor (116) controlled by the frequency drive; (ii) a second stage (120) having a flywheel (122) driven by the motor; (iii) a third stage (130) having an alternator (132) driven by the motor (116) and connected to the flywheel, and a rectifier (134) that receives current from the alternator and generates a direct current; and (iv) a fourth stage (140) having a charge control switch (142) that receives power from the rectifier, and a plurality of power storage devices such as batteries (144A-144C). A master control switch (150) controls the charge control switch to transition the plurality of batteries individually between a charging configuration and a load configuration. One or more of the battery(ies) in the load configuration provides power to the inverter.

Abstract: This disclosure describes methods and apparatus for indicating battery cell status on a battery pack assembly used during mechanical ventilation. Embodiments described herein seek to provide methods for indicating battery cell status on the exposed exterior of a battery assembly pack both when the battery is in use and when the battery is not in use during mechanical ventilation. Embodiments utilize power from the ventilator as well as power from the battery pack itself to light the indicators during periods of battery use and non-use, respectively. Embodiments described herein further seek to provide an apparatus indicating battery cell status on the exposed exterior of the battery pack assembly during mechanical ventilation. Embodiments described herein further seek to provide an apparatus for a battery pack assembly used during mechanical ventilation. Embodiments described herein seek to provide a system for a ventilation system with an inserted battery pack assembly.

Abstract: A charging apparatus for laptop computer with multiple-batteries is used in a first battery unit and a second battery unit. The charging apparatus comprises a micro controller unit; a first charging switch unit electrically connected to the micro controller unit; a second charging switch unit electrically connected to the micro controller unit; and a charging unit electrically connected to the first charging switch unit and the second charging switch unit. The micro controller unit controls the charging unit charging the first battery unit and the second battery unit via controlling the first charging switch unit and the second charging switch unit. The charging apparatus charges multi-batteries simultaneously.

Abstract: Different types of energy storage systems are described, in particular hydro-pneumatic storage systems. In one, energy is stored by compressing gas in a chamber (44,45,54,55) with a liquid piston and released by gas expansion. A spray head or grid at the top of the chamber (44,45,54,55) supplies liquid as a shower through the gas being compressed or expanding in the cylinder (11,12) to maintain an isothermal condition. In another, energy is stored from an array of solar cells connected to an array of supercapacitors forming an auxiliary storage, and a main energy storage device such as a hydro-pneumatic storage system, for supply to an AC or DC network. The efficiency is improved by connecting the solar cells via the array of supercapacitors to the AC or DC network.

Abstract: Disclosed is a circuit arrangement. The circuit arrangement includes a plurality of rechargeable batteries each having at least one rechargeable electrochemical cell, and current-carrying members connecting the plurality of batteries such that when the plurality of batteries are charging the plurality of batteries are in a series electrical circuit arrangement and when the plurality of batteries are discharging the plurality of batteries are in a parallel electrical circuit arrangement.

Abstract: A temperature sensor mounting arrangement for a battery frame assembly in which a plurality of rechargeable battery packs are supported and interconnected. The arrangement includes an elongated support member secured to a battery frame member and extending into an interior region of the frame member. At least one electrical interface connector is secured to a first end of the support member and an electronic temperature sensor is secured to a face of the support member in a target position proximate to a battery pack outer surface. A plurality of electrical conductors interconnects between the electrical connectors and the temperature sensor. The temperature sensor mounting arrangement is modularized and designed to enable high speed assembly during manufacturing and ensure repeatable frame to frame sensor positioning and accuracy of temperature readings.

Abstract: The described method and system allows for the utilization of a telematics unit on a telematics-equipped vehicle to prevent the unauthorized discharge of a vehicle battery. A user may communicate an authorization request for allowing discharge of the vehicle battery through a telematics unit or telematics service provider (TSP) call center. If approved by the TSP call enter or telematics unit, an authorization, which may include an authorization code, is communicated to a charge controller which controls the discharge of the vehicle battery. Alternatively, the user may communicate an authorization code directly to the telematics unit which passes it on to the charge controller for approval.

Abstract: A hybrid battery and its charging/discharging method automatically charges/discharges batteries having different capacities. The hybrid battery includes a plurality of rechargeable batteries; switching elements which are electrically connected to the plurality of rechargeable batteries having high current paths for electrically connecting to one of the high current paths; and a hybrid battery protection circuit electrically connected to the plurality of rechargeable batteries and driven by power supplied by one of the plurality of rechargeable batteries, the hybrid battery protection circuit charging/discharging the plurality of rechargeable batteries in sequence by transmitting an on/off signal to the switching element.