Each prototype Switcher module incorporates:
GBS LiFePO4 battery (12.8 V, 100 Ah, 10C)
Maxwell BMOD0500 ultracapacitor (16 V, 500 F)
802.15.4 radio link to central computer (wireless control and data communication)
Proprietary multiplexer control module
Atmel microprocessor cell monitors (voltage, temperature, charge shunting)
Fully optoisolated optical fibre data connections
Multiplexer Control ModuleEach power module communicates bidirectionally with the central control computer via an Xbee radio link. The optomux board also communicates optically with the 4 cell monitors, one per battery cell.
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Cell MonitorsVoltage and temperature of each battery cell is continuously monitored by a fully optoisolated ATmega328 microprocessor, communicating optically with the module's multiplexer. Each cell monitor autonomously top balances its cell during charging.
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Control SoftwareAn arbitrary number of Switcher modules can be used in a vehicle.
A laptop computer runs software to monitor cell voltages, current, and throttle position. The control algorithms optimize module switching, and OpenGL display code provides information to the driver. |