Wireless battery management system for electric vehicles
The wireless battery management system uses an ISM-band radio with an RF gateway client that acts as a central controller that communicates with all secondary nodes using a star topology. Maxim plans to demonstrate the system next week at the CES show in Las Vegas.
Communication between the gateway and secondary nodes is encrypted and the star topology means data delivery is robust. Eliminating wiring and related components can also enhance vehicle efficiency and extend driving range. Each BMS secondary node communicates data wirelessly back to the gateway. The secondary nodes also each interface to a MAX17853 14-channel, high-voltage ASIL D battery monitor via SPI.
It is aimed at addressing the increasing trend toward vehicle electrification and the management of the lithium-ion battery packs that power them. Filled with hundreds or even thousands of individual battery cells, the battery packs require precise management of the voltages and temperatures of these battery cells for safe, efficient, and long-lasting operation, says the company.
The wireless BMS reduces weight by reducing wires and connectors and reduces cost by eliminating inter-module isolation components. It also reduces manufacturing complexity and manufacturing time by allowing more flexibility in the battery pack shape.
In a normal application, says the company, the gateway device would communicate to a host microprocessor to provide measurement and diagnostic information. In the demo, the gateway communicates to a host PC to display measurement information.
The demo as well as tech experts will be inside Maxim’s private automotive demo room at CES.
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