Harry B Martin

US Patent:

43908411, Jun 28, 1983

Filed:

Oct 14, 1980

Appl. No.:

6/196398

Inventors:

Harry L. Martin - Knoxville TN
Raymond E. Goodson - West Lafayette IN

Assignee:

Purdue Research Foundation - West Lafayette IN

International Classification:

G01N 2746

US Classification:

324427

Abstract:

A monitoring apparatus and method are disclosed for monitoring and/or indicating energy that a battery power source has then remaining and/or can deliver for utilization purposes as, for example, to an electric vehicle. A battery mathematical model forms the basis for monitoring with a capacity prediction determined from measurement of the discharge current rate and stored battery parameters. The predicted capacity is used to provide a state-of-charge indication. Self-calibration over the life of the battery power supply is enacted through use of a feedback voltage based upon the difference between predicted and measured voltages to correct the battery mathematical model. Through use of a microprocessor with central information storage of temperature, current and voltage, system behavior is monitored, and system flexibility is enhanced.