Monitoring system of electric power-driven tool, battery power source of electric power-driven tool, and charging device for batteries of electric power-driven tool

FIELD: electricity.

SUBSTANCE: application in the field of electrical engineering. The system includes a battery power source of electric power-driven tool and an auxiliary power supply source. The battery power source has a battery and a monitoring circuit. The battery has at least one battery cell. The monitoring circuit is actuated by electric power supplied from the battery; the circuit controls state of the battery. The auxiliary power supply source outputs electric power that allows operation of the monitoring circuit. The monitoring circuit is made so that when the circuit is inoperable with electric power supplied by the battery in result of battery voltage decrease the circuit may operate with electric power supplied by the auxiliary power supply source.

EFFECT: improving reliability.

14 cl, 6 dwg

The level of technology

The present invention relates to a monitoring system battery electric drive tool that monitors the status of the battery in the battery power source. The battery is used as the source of excitation power for the electric drive tool. This invention also relates to a rechargeable power source of the electric drive tool and a charger for batteries, electric drive tool, both of which are above the system.

In the battery power source for the electric drive tool that uses a battery that includes a lithium-ion rechargeable battery (hereinafter also referred to as "battery power"), in General, included the monitoring scheme. The monitoring scheme should always monitor the battery status. The parameters that should be monitored by the monitoring scheme, include, for example, the voltage of each element of the battery constituting the battery, the degree of lowering of the battery voltage, the temperature of each element of the battery or the temperature of the entire battery), the current charging/discharging to/from the battery, etc.

In General, provided that the second configuration, the monitor circuit monitors the battery at the time when the battery is charging, and at the time when the battery discharges in an electric drive machine, which is the object that is to be supplied with electric power from the battery. In view of the above, the battery is used as power source monitoring scheme.

In the battery power source includes a monitoring scheme, which is managed through the use of a battery as a power source, as described above, it is inevitable that the electric power of the battery is always consumed by the monitoring scheme, though in a small amount. Therefore, even if the battery is not supplying electricity to the drive tool and simply left unused, the battery lasts. As a result, the remaining capacity of the battery is gradually reduced and, ultimately, empty. When the battery power decreases, the battery voltage also decreases. In addition, the monitoring scheme may become unusable.

The way to prevent the lowering of the battery capacity, for example, consists in the following. One way is that when the battery power is used, for example, when the battery source pit is of just left unused, the monitoring scheme switches to eco mode to stop all or part of the operation of the monitoring scheme. Another way is that when the battery voltage drops below a certain level, the power supply to each circuit of the battery power source from the battery is completely stopped. Regardless of which method is actually used, however, due to natural discharge (self discharge) of the battery even if the battery is left unused, the battery voltage should gradually decrease in the long term. Because of this, the battery goes into a state of excessive discharge. As a result, the monitoring scheme becomes inefficient due to low voltage power source.

Charger for battery, which charges the rechargeable power source includes a monitoring scheme, in General, performed with the opportunity to manage charging on the basis of the monitoring (i.e. battery status monitoring scheme. However, in the charger for a battery that is configured as described above, if charging rechargeable power source, the monitoring scheme which is inefficient due to the decrease of voltage the battery I, the following problem may occur. More specifically, since it is impossible to obtain the result of monitoring from the battery power source, charging may not be performed without disruption to or not to run.

In this regard, as a method for charging a rechargeable power source, in which the battery voltage is reduced so that the monitor circuit becomes inoperative, not passed examination patent publication (Japan), room 2007-82379 reveals the following way: if the battery voltage is equal to or less than a predetermined value, charging begins regardless of the result of monitoring by the monitoring scheme, the conditions for the achievement of the monitoring, etc. In this way, after the battery voltage is restored, the operation monitoring starts.

However, when charging rechargeable power source that is discharged so that the monitor circuit becomes inoperative, for example, due to non-use of the battery power source for a long period of time, if charging is performed independently from the operations of the monitoring scheme in the same way as in the method described in the patent publication, the following problem may occur. The other is their words, when a specific violation of the battery occurs, or even when a specific violation of the battery has already occurred before the start of charging, charging may be continued without detection of violations in the work.

There are a variety of malfunctions which may occur in the battery in a state of excessive discharge. One example of the disruption is an internal short circuit generated in the element of the battery, which is the battery. When charging the battery with the battery element, which has created an internal short circuit, as described above, the battery voltage may not be restored to the normal value. In addition, since the charging continues, certain elements of the battery without disruption can continue to recharge and move into a state of excessive charging.

Thus, it is undesirable to continue charging regardless of the operation of the monitoring scheme. In other words, it is undesirable to continue charging despite the likelihood that the violation in the work, you may have the battery constituting the battery.

The above problem may occur not only in the battery power source having a battery element, which consists of IO is but ion rechargeable battery but also in the other battery having a monitor circuit that monitors the battery status.

In one aspect of the present invention preferably, in the battery power source includes a monitoring scheme that is managed by the battery as the power source when the battery voltage drops so that the monitor circuit becomes inoperative, the monitoring scheme became operational, at least when the battery is charging.

The invention

The system of monitoring the state of batteries for electric drive tool in the first aspect of the present invention includes a rechargeable power source for electric drive tool and the auxiliary power source.

Rechargeable power source is a battery and a monitoring scheme. The battery is used as the source of excitation power for the electric drive tool and has at least one element of the battery. The monitoring scheme is operated by electric power supplied from the battery, and monitors the battery status.

The auxiliary power source is provided within or separately from the battery source to the power supply, and outputs the electric power, allowing the monitoring scheme to work. The monitoring scheme is designed in such a way that the monitoring scheme operates on electric power supplied from the auxiliary power source when the monitoring scheme becomes unhealthy when electric power from the battery due to the decrease of battery voltage.

According to the system of monitoring the state of batteries of the present invention, configured as described above, even if the battery voltage drops so that the monitor circuit becomes inoperative, for example, due to non-use of the battery power source for a long period of time, the monitoring scheme operates from an auxiliary power source instead of the above-mentioned battery. Therefore, when charging the battery, where the battery voltage is reduced, as described above, can be controlled by monitoring scheme through an auxiliary power source during charging of the battery.

In the system of monitoring the state of batteries of the present invention the auxiliary power source may be provided in different ways. For example, if at least one element of the battery included in the battery pack is a rechargeable battery element is, the auxiliary power source may be provided in the charger for the batteries to charge the battery.

In other words, the monitoring system battery preferably includes a charger for batteries for electric drive tool which is designed so that the rechargeable power source is removable attached to a charger for batteries. Charger for battery generates and outputs power for charging to charge the battery. The auxiliary power source may be provided in the charger for the batteries. In addition, it can be executed so that the electric power of the auxiliary power source can be delivered to the rechargeable power source when the rechargeable power source connected to a charger for batteries.

According to the system of monitoring the state of batteries configured as described above, even if the battery voltage drops so that the monitor circuit becomes inoperative when the charger for the batteries is connected to charge the above battery, not only electric power for charging the battery, but also electricity vspomogateljno the power source is supplied from the charger to the batteries. Therefore, even if the battery voltage goes down, you can control the monitoring scheme, at least when the battery is charging.

In the system of monitoring the state of batteries in which the auxiliary power source is provided in the charger for the batteries, the following configuration may be possible. Thus, charger for batteries may include contact clip on the side of the charger that outputs the electric power of the auxiliary power source to the battery power source. In addition, the rechargeable power source may include a contact clip on the side of the rechargeable power source. When the battery power source connected to a charger for the battery terminal on the battery power source is connected to the contact clip on the side of the charger. Then, the electric power of the auxiliary power source, the output of the contact clip on the side of the charger, is introduced into the battery power supply through a terminal on the side of the rechargeable power source.

In the system of monitoring the state of batteries configured as described above, when the battery power source Pris is coupled to a charger for batteries the clamp on the side of the rechargeable power source and a contact clip on the side of the charger are connected to each other. Thus, the electric power of the auxiliary power source can be reliably fed into the battery power supply through terminals. Accordingly, the monitoring scheme can be reliably controlled, when charging is performed.

In the system of monitoring the state of batteries in which the auxiliary power source is provided in the charger for batteries, may be such a configuration that the system parameters (i.e. the condition of the battery by monitoring scheme can be transferred to the charger for the batteries. In other words, the rechargeable power source may include an output terminal that outputs the system parameters by monitoring scheme in charger for rechargeable batteries. In addition, the charger for the battery may include an input terminal. When the battery power source connected to a charger for batteries, an input terminal connected to the output contact terminal. Then the system parameters that are output from the output pin of the clip are inserted in charger for AK is umulation through the input terminal.

In the system of monitoring the state of batteries configured as described above, the monitored parameters by monitoring scheme are entered (transferred) from the battery power supply charger for battery via the output terminal and input terminal. Therefore, charger for batteries allows you to control the charging operation on the basis of input of monitored parameters, when the battery is charging.

In the system of monitoring the state of batteries in which the monitored parameters by monitoring scheme can be displayed in the charger for a battery as described above, it can also be done as follows: when the monitor circuit detects that the battery is in the charged state, the charging device for batteries can charge the battery.

The monitoring scheme may include determining module is the ability to charge and the module output signals. The determining module is the ability to charge determines what is or is not the battery charge condition, by monitoring the battery. When determining module the battery charger determines that the battery is in the charged state, the module output signal output as on the tion of the monitored parameters, the permission signal charge to the output terminal. The enable signal charging indicates that the battery is in the charged state.

Then, when the enable signal charge is injected into the charger for batteries from rechargeable power source through the input terminal, a charger for batteries brings power to charge rechargeable power source.

According to the system of monitoring the state of batteries configured as described above, when the monitor circuit detects that the battery is in the charged condition, the battery charging is performed. Therefore, it can be prevented that, even if the breach has arisen in the battery, charging is performed for this battery.

In the system of monitoring the state of batteries, which have an auxiliary power supply in the charger for the batteries, the following configuration may be possible. More specifically, the rechargeable power source determines whether or not the charger for the batteries attached, based on the applied or not electric power of the auxiliary power source. In particular, the rechargeable power source may include a detection module connection. To the Yes electric power of the auxiliary power source is injected into the battery power supply attaching the battery power source to the charger for batteries the detection module connection detects that the rechargeable power source connected to a charger for batteries, based on the input electric power of the auxiliary power source.

In the system of monitoring the state of batteries configured as described above, the electric power of the auxiliary power source is used not only to control the monitor circuit when the battery voltage decreases, but also to detect that the battery power source connected to a charger for batteries. Accordingly, it becomes possible to provide a monitoring system that provides a simple and effective detection, attached or not the rechargeable power source to the charger for the batteries.

In the system of monitoring the state of batteries of the present invention, the monitor circuit may be designed so that the battery voltage or the voltage of the auxiliary power source is directly introduced into the monitoring scheme, thereby allowing the monitoring scheme to work. For example, the power supply circuit may be provided in the battery power source. The battery voltage and the voltage of the auxiliary power source may be introduced into the scheme is electroputere. The power supply circuit may form a source of operating power to control the monitoring scheme based on one of the stresses introduced as described above. The monitoring scheme can work with the source of operating power generated by the power supply circuits.

In the system of monitoring the state of batteries configured as described above, even if the battery voltage and the voltage of the auxiliary power supply can be directly fed into the monitoring scheme, the scheme provides the power to generate the required power supply for the control circuit monitoring. This provides greater flexibility (in particular, the values of the above stresses) during system configuration monitoring the state of batteries.

In the system of monitoring the state of batteries in which the battery power source is equipped with a power supply circuit, power supply circuit can be performed with the option to generate a source of operating power based on the larger of the battery voltage and the voltage of the auxiliary power source. This configuration allows a more stable form working capacity.

In this case, the power supply circuit may include, more specifically, a method of forming the first diode and the second di the D. Diagram of the formation may be performed in such a way that one of the battery voltage and the voltage of the auxiliary power source is introduced into the scheme of formation. Diagram of the formation forms a source of operating power based on input voltage. The first diode has a cathode connected to the input terminal of the shaping circuit. The first diode has an anode, which is the battery voltage. The second diode has a cathode connected to the input terminal of the shaping circuit. The second diode has an anode, which is the voltage of the supplementary power source.

Power supply circuit is designed so that each of the battery voltage and the voltage of the auxiliary power source is introduced into the scheme of formation through the respective diodes. Thus, without providing a specific switching circuit and the like, the pattern of formation may form a source of operating power based on the larger of the battery voltage and the voltage of the auxiliary power source.

Rechargeable power source includes a power supply circuit as described above, can optionally be equipped with a module termination output. Module termination output may be provided on the current-carrying path, coming from the place where the auxiliary voltage source Pete the Oia is injected into the battery power source, in the place where the voltage of the auxiliary power source reaches of power supply circuits. Module termination output from the output voltage of the battery, which should be put in the power supply circuit, a terminal of the auxiliary power source through the current-carrying path.

Thus, the battery voltage and the voltage of the auxiliary power source are injected into the power supply circuit. If there is a fault in the power supply circuit, the battery voltage may be applied to the terminal of the auxiliary power source depending on the degree of fault. Thus, by providing a module termination of the output of the current-carrying path leading from the auxiliary power source to the power supply circuit, it becomes possible to prevent the output voltage of the battery terminal auxiliary supply from the terminals of the power supply circuits.

It should be understood that the details of the configuration module termination output can be done in different ways. For example, the module termination output can be accomplished through the use of the third diode. The third diode may have a cathode connected to the terminal of power supply circuits. The third diode may have an anode, which introduces an additional voltage source to the power supply. In addition, the module termination output can be performed, for example, through the use of a fuse.

As described above, if the module termination output completed through the third diode or a fuse, it may be possible to provide a module stop the output in a simple way.

Rechargeable power source for electric drive tool in a second aspect of the present invention is the above system of monitoring the state of batteries of the present invention. According to the rechargeable power source, even if the battery voltage drops so that the monitor circuit becomes inoperative, the monitoring scheme operates from an auxiliary power supply instead of the battery. Consequently, it is possible to charge the battery when the management of the monitoring scheme.

Charger for batteries for electric drive tool in the third aspect of the present invention is the above system of monitoring the state of batteries (here referred to as a system, are equipped with charging station for batteries for electric drive tool) of the present invention. According to this charger for batteries when rechargeable IP the source of power connected to a charger for batteries you can supply power to the rechargeable power source from the internally provided auxiliary power source. Therefore, even if the battery voltage in the battery power source is reduced, the monitor circuit in the battery power source is powered by electric power from the auxiliary power source.

Brief description of drawings

The following describes an implementation option of the present invention as an example with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which:

Figure 1 is a view in perspective showing the external appearance of the battery power source and charger for batteries for electric drive tool, both of which constitute the charging system for electric drive tool;

Figure 2 is an electric circuit diagram showing the electrical configuration of the charging system for electric drive tool;

Figa and 3B are a flowchart of the operational sequence of the method, showing the sequence of control processes for monitoring the state of batteries that are performed by the microcomputer of the battery power source;

4 is a flowchart of the operational sequence of the method, showing the details of the process the management to monitor the charging step S120 in the management processes for monitoring the state of batteries; and

Figure 5 is an electric circuit diagram showing another variant of implementation of the charging system for electric drive tool.

A detailed description of the preferred embodiments

(1) the General structure of the charging system of the electric drive tool

The system 30 charging for electric drive tool, shown in figure 1, is the embodiment of the system of monitoring the state of batteries for electric drive tool according to the present invention.

The battery source 10 power removable attached to various types of electric drive tools, such as rechargeable percussion instrument, rechargeable screwdriver, rechargeable shock manual wrench, etc. (they are only examples). The battery source 10 power supplies in electric powered tools electric power supply to control electric power tools. The battery source 10 power supply includes a battery 31 (see figure 2) as a power source.

The battery source 10 power supply includes a section 17 mounting on the side of the battery, formed on one of its sides. Section 17 of the mounting on the side of the battery is attached to the section and 27 mounting on the side of the charger into the battery charger 20 to the battery or to the chassis of the electric tool drive tool. In a pre-defined position in section 17 of the mounting on the side of the battery are also provided with the clamp 16 on the side of the battery. Terminal 16 is electrically connected to the contact clip 26 on the side of the charger into the battery charger 20 to the battery or to the contact clip on the side of the tool (not shown) of the tool body.

The clamp 16 is configured to include a positive terminal 11 on the side of the battery, the negative terminal 12 on the side of the battery and the group 13 of the signal contact terminals on the side of the battery. On terminals 11 and 12 supplies power supply current charge/discharge. Group 13 of the signal contact terminals consist of a set of contact terminals, comprising at least an input terminal 51 of the control voltage on the side of the charger and the output terminal 52 for permission signal/stop charging (see figure 2).

The charger 20 for battery generates power to charge the DC power for charging) with a predefined voltage to charge the battery 31 inside the battery source 10 power supply from the not shown external input power source (in the present embodiment, light source is the AC power supply AC 100 V). The charger 20 for batteries includes section 27 of the mounting on the side of the charger, formed on one end side of the upper surface of the charger 20 for batteries. The battery source 10 power attached to section 27 of the mounting on the side of the charger. In a pre-defined position of the section 27 of the mounting on the side of the charger (in section 27 of the mounting on the side of the charger) additional contact clip 26 on the side of the charger.

The clamp 26 is configured to include a positive terminal 21 on the side of the charger negative terminal 22 on the side of the charger and groups 23 signal contact terminals on the side of the charger. Terminals 21 and 22 is accomplished with the opportunity to apply power to charge the DC battery source 10 power. Group 23 signal contact terminals consist of a set of contact terminals, including at least the output terminal 81 of the control voltage on the side of the charger and the input terminal 82 of the enable signal/stop charging (see figure 2).

The charger 20 for batteries additionally includes a display is 28, equipped with three LEDs. The display 28 indicates the operating status of the charger 20 for batteries, the charging status of the battery source 10 power etc.

In the system 30 charging for electric drive tool, constructed as described above, when section 17 mounting on the side of the battery into the battery source 10 power attached to section 27 of the mounting on the side of the charger into the charger 20 for batteries, both of the contact terminals 16 and 26 are electrically connected to each other.

More specifically, the terminal 11 of the battery source 10 power supply connected to the contact terminal 21 of the battery charger 20 for batteries. Terminal 12 of the battery source 10 power supply connected to the contact terminal 22 of the battery charger 20 for batteries. In addition, the terminals 51 and 52 constituting the group 13 of the signal contact terminals, are connected to the terminals 81 and 82 constituting the group 23 of the signal contact terminals, respectively (see figure 2). In this state, it becomes possible to charge the battery 31 inside the battery source 10 power through the charger 20 for batteries.

(2) Electrical system charging electric drive tool

Electrical system 30 charging for electric drive tool is described below with reference to figure 2. Figure 2 shows the state in which the battery source 10 power supply is attached to the charger 20 for batteries. In figure 2, the battery source 10 power supply & battery charger 20 for batteries electrically connected to each other.

(2-1) the Electrical configuration of the battery power source

First is illustrated an electrical configuration of the battery source 10 power. As shown in figure 2, the battery source 10 power supply includes a battery 31, the microcomputer 32 and the regulator 33 on the side of the battery. The microcomputer 32, in General, performs various management functions in the battery source 10 power. In particular, the microcomputer 32, for example, controls charging/discharging of the battery 31 and monitors the status of the battery 31. The regulator 33 generates the control voltage Vcc on the side of the battery (for example, 3.3 V) using the electric power of the battery 31 as input to control various circuits in the battery source 10 power. Terminal 11 is connected to the positive terminal of battery 31. Terminal 12 is connected to the negative terminal of the battery 31.

The battery 31 with konfigurieren by connecting many elements B1, B2,..., Bn battery consistently. In the present embodiment, corresponding elements B1, B2,..., Bn battery can be a lithium-ion rechargeable batteries with a nominal voltage of 3.6 V, and four lithium-ion rechargeable battery can be connected in series. Therefore, in this example, the full voltage of the battery 31 (hereafter referred to as "battery voltage") Vbat is approximately 14.4 V in the normal state.

When the battery source 10 power supply attached to the housing of the drive tool is used, the electric power of the battery 31 is supplied to the tool body through terminals 11 and 12. When the battery 31 is charged by the charger 20 for batteries, power for charging direct current from the battery charger 20 for batteries is supplied to the battery 31 through terminals 11 and 12, as explained below.

The voltage Vbat of the battery is inserted in the stabilizer 33 through the switch 40 is off, the Zener diode D4 and the diode D1. The regulator 33 generates the control voltage Vcc on the basis of input voltage Vbat of the battery. Zener diode D4 has a cathode connected to one end of the switch 40 is off. Zener diode D4 has an anode connected to the anode of diode D1. The diode D1 has a cathode connection is secured to the stabilizer 33.

The switch 40 mute is turned on/off in accordance with signal SD off of the microcomputer 32. More control on/off is described below. The switch 40 is off, in General, included up until the battery 31 is in a healthy state.

Consequently, the voltage Vbat of the battery, in General, is introduced into the regulator 33 through the switch 40 is off, the Zener diode D4 and the diode D1. However, there may be a voltage drop caused by reverse voltage (the breakdown voltage of, for example, 5 V) of the Zener diode D4 and a direct voltage of diode D1. Accordingly, in practice, the voltage obtained by subtracting the values of these voltage drops from the voltage Vbat of the battery, is introduced into the stabilizer 33.

In the battery source 10 power, as shown in figure 2, scheme, managed by means of the control voltage Vcc, and the circuit is controlled by using the voltage Vbat of the battery, are present in combination. The voltage Vbat of the battery is input via the switch 40 is off, is introduced into the cathode of the Zener diode D4. The voltage Vbat of the battery is also entered in each diagram in the battery source 10 power, which must be controlled by using the voltage Vbat of the battery.

Not only the above-described voltage Vbat of the battery, but also manages to whom the custody of Vdd on the side of the charger (which is explained in detail below) is introduced into the regulator 33 through the diode D3 and the diode D2. The control voltage Vdd is formed in the battery charger 20 for batteries.

In particular, the cathode of the diode D1 and the cathode of the diode D2 are connected to the input terminal of the regulator 33. The anode of diode D2 is connected to the cathode of diode D3. The anode of diode D3 is connected to the contact terminal 51. As explained later, the control voltage Vdd is introduced into the terminal 51 from the charger 20 for batteries. Therefore, the control voltage Vdd, introduced in the clamp 51, is introduced into the regulator 33 through the diode D3 and the diode D2.

In other words, in the battery source 10 power under this option implementation has such a configuration that the stabilizer 33 can generate the control voltage Vcc on the basis of one of the voltage Vbat of the battery and the control voltage Vdd. In other words, the stabilizer 33 is configured to be a so-called stabilizer quenching type. More specifically, it is made so that the voltage Vbat of the battery is inserted in the stabilizer 33 through the diode D1, and the control voltage Vdd is introduced into the regulator 33 through the diode D2. As a result, more of the voltage Vbat of the battery and the control voltage Vdd must be entered in the regulator 33.

According to the above configuration, in the normal state, when the battery 31 has no malfunction, the voltage Vbat of the battery input is seeking in the regulator 33 through the diode D1. On the basis of input voltage Vbat of the battery control voltage Vcc can be generated.

However, if the battery 31 is continued, for example, due to non-use of the battery source 10 power for a long period of time, the voltage Vbat of the battery decreases. In this case, the regulator 33 may not be able to generate the control voltage Vcc on the basis of low voltage Vbat of the battery.

In this case, in the present embodiment, if the battery source 10 power supply attached to the charger 20 for batteries, the control voltage Vdd from the battery charger 20 for batteries is introduced into the regulator 33 through the diode D2, thereby allowing the regulator 33 to form the control voltage Vcc on the basis of input control voltage Vdd.

More specifically, in the present embodiment, the excessive discharge of the battery 31 is detected based on the signal LV undervoltage detection (which is explained later in detail) from the module 34 comparison for undervoltage detection. If excessive discharge is detected, the microcomputer 32 outputs a switch-off signal from the output pin of the clamp switch-off signal to turn off the switch 40 is off. The ZAT is the input voltage Vbat of the battery to the regulator 33 is interrupted, and thus the formation of the control voltage Vcc is stopped. Accordingly, the microcomputer 32 shifts in the shutdown mode, which stops the operation of the microcomputer 32.

To reset the microcomputer 32 from the shutdown mode in normal operating state (normal operating mode), it is necessary to perform charging with the battery source 10 power supply attached to the charger 20 for batteries. When the battery source 10 power supply attached to the charger 20 for batteries, the control voltage Vdd is introduced into the regulator 33 through the terminal 51, the diode D3 and the diode D2. Therefore, initiated the formation of the control voltage Vcc. Thus, the microcomputer 32 starts and then restored to the normal operating mode.

After recovery to normal operating mode, the microcomputer 32 again comprises a switch 40 off. Therefore, after the switch 40 off on if charging continues and the voltage Vbat of the battery is restored, the regulator 33 generates the control voltage Vcc again based on the recovered voltage Vbat of the battery.

Meanwhile, a circuit 60 power, which includes the stabilizer 33, two diodes, i.e. diodes D1 and D2, etc. Diodes D1 and D2 p is glucouse to the input terminal of the regulator 33. If a fault occurs (for example, malfunction of the diode D2 in the circuit 60, the power supply voltage Vbat of the battery, which should be put in the stabilizer 33, can also be applied to the contact terminal 51. In addition, in this case, the voltage Vbat of the battery can be entered even into the charger 20 for batteries. If the voltage Vbat of the battery is inserted in the charger 20 for a battery that can be caused by negative effects for the scheme (for example, scheme 73 power supply, for switching control to provide a control voltage Vdd) in the charger 20 for batteries.

In view of the foregoing, the battery source 10 power under this variant implementation is designed in such a way that the diode D3 is connected to the contact terminal 51 and thereby the control voltage Vdd from the battery charger 20 for batteries is inserted through the diode D3 in the regulator 33. The provision of the diode D3, as described above, can prevent the input voltage Vbat of the battery charger 20 to the battery through the terminal 51.

The battery source 10 supply additionally includes a switch 38 item is selected, the differential amplifier circuit 35, the circuit 39 for detecting temperature, the module 34 comparison for the detection of low intensity in the I, resistor R1 for detecting the current reinvertimos amplifying circuit, the comparison module 36 for detecting the discharge and the transistor Tr1 to detect the charger.

The switch 38 selectively outputs one of the voltages (hereinafter called the "voltage element) elements B1, B2,..., Bn battery in the battery 31.

Circuit 35 amplifies the voltage of one of the battery cells, selected by switch 38, and outputs the amplified voltage as a signal CeV voltage of the element.

The circuit 39 is provided near the battery 31. Circuit 39 detects the temperature of the battery element (hereinafter referred to as the temperature of element), and outputs the temperature signal CeT temperature of the element.

Module 34 comparison compares the divided value Vz of the battery voltage obtained by dividing the voltage Vbat of the battery through resistors Rx and Ry of the voltage divider to a predetermined first reference voltage Vr1. Then the module 34 comparison outputs the comparison result as a signal LV undervoltage detection.

Resistor R1 is used to detect current discharge during discharge of the battery 31 in the main drive mechanism of the tool.

Reinventory amplification circuit includes operations which include the amplifier 37 and resistors R2, R3 and R4. Reinventory amplification circuit is used to generate the signal current discharge through the strengthening of the current detected by the resistor R1 (i.e. the signal voltage corresponding to the current value), by a predetermined gain.

The comparison module 36 compares the signal current discharge, reinforced by reinvestiruja amplifying circuit, and a predefined second reference voltage Vr2. Then the comparison module 36 outputs the comparison result as a signal CuD discovery of the discharge.

The transistor Tr1 is used to detect that the charger 20 for batteries connected.

As transistor Tr1 bipolar transistor with an NPN-structure used in the present embodiment, only as an example.

The switch 38 selection is controlled using the voltage Vbat of the battery. The switch 38 is configured so that, in accordance with the signal SEL select from the microcomputer 32, the voltage in one of the battery cells, indicated by the signal selection element is displayed, and then is introduced into the circuit 35. As illustrated, the switch 38 selection includes many of the switches SW1a, - SW2a, SW1b, SW2b, SW3a,..., SWna.

The switch SW1a is connected between the denier, the first electrode element B1 battery and reinvestiruet input pin clamp circuit 35. The switch SW1b is connected between the positive electrode element B1 of the battery and the inverting input pin of the clamp circuit 35. The switch 38 selection element configured as described above, in the case of, for example, if the element B1 battery with the lowest electrical potential selected by a signal SEL of the select element, the switches SW1a and SW1b are included, and all other switches off. As a result, the voltage of the selected item B1 battery is inserted from the switch 38 select an item in scheme 35.

The circuit 35 is controlled by means of the control voltage Vcc. The voltage input from the switch 38 selecting the item (i.e. the potential difference selected from any of the elements of the battery), is amplified by circuit 35 and is introduced into the microcomputer 32 as a signal CeV voltage of the element.

The circuit 39 is configured as a known temperature sensor includes a temperature sensitive device such as a thermistor. The sensing device is provided about each element of the battery in the battery 31. Various configurations can be used, where the sensing device must be provided or how many temperature-sensitive devices should be provided. For example, it may be before the tableno one sensing device, and the result of detection devices can be considered as the element temperature of each element of the battery. Alternatively, the temperature sensitive device may be separately provided for each of the elements of the battery, and the temperature of the element can be individually detected for each element of the battery. In the present embodiment, explanation is given on the basis of the first variant (case when one of the temperature-sensitive device is provided to simplify the description.

Module 34 comparison is controlled using the voltage Vbat of the battery (or the control voltage Vcc). Module 34 comparison outputs the detection signal of low voltage with high (H) level to the microcomputer 32 in the normal state where the divided value Vz battery voltage is equal to or exceeds the first reference voltage Vr1. On the other hand, if the voltage Vbat of the battery decreases and the voltage value Vz thereby falls below the voltage Vr1, the module 34 comparison outputs the detection signal of low voltage, low (L) level to the microcomputer 32. Module 34 comparison is intended to prevent excessive discharge of the battery 31, and detects when the battery 31 is almost in a state of excessive discharge. Matched with the public, the voltage Vr1 is properly set equal to a value that allows it to detect when the battery 31 is almost in a state of excessive discharge. In the present embodiment, as an example, to detect when the voltage Vbat of the battery drops below 10 V, the voltage Vr1 is set equal to the value obtained by dividing 10 by the resistors Rx and Ry.

Resistor R1 is provided on the current-carrying path leading from the contact clamps 12 to the negative electrode of the battery 31 (negative electrode element B1 battery with the lowest electric potential). The voltage drop (voltage signal)caused by the current discharge in the resistor R1, is introduced into the operational amplifier 37, which is reinvertimos amplification scheme.

Reinventory amplification circuit mainly includes an operational amplifier 37, which is controlled by means of the control voltage Vcc, and has a known configuration. The signal voltage detected by the resistor R1, is introduced into the non-inverting input terminal. An inverting input terminal connected to line to ground (ground potential) through a resistor R2. Inverting input terminal is also connected to the output terminal of the clamp through which resistor R3. In the present embodiment, which contains the above-described configuration as a basis, the resistor R4 is additionally connected between the inverting input pin clamp and the microcomputer 32. Strengthening reinvestiruja amplifying circuit can be switched between two levels in this configuration.

One end of the resistor R4 is connected to the inverting input contact terminal of the operational amplifier 37 and the other end is connected to the port 47 of the output switching signal gain in the microcomputer 32. The microcomputer 32 performs switching gain reinvestiruja amplifying circuit through the switch port 47 between the high impedance and the output L-level.

When the amount of current discharge more, for example, at the time when the electric drive tool is used, the signal is high impedance is output as a signal GC switching gain to decrease the gain (reduced gain in the future is referred to as the first amplification). This makes it possible to appropriately detect a significant amount of current discharge (for example, a strong current of several tens of amperes). On the other hand, when the amount of current discharge has a small value (for example, approximately 0 A), the signal L-the match is output as a signal GC switching gain, to increase gain reinvestiruja amplifying circuit (high gain hereinafter referred to as the second gain). It is possible to accurately detect even a very small electric current. As described above, by switching the gain reinvestiruja amplification circuit in accordance with the current value of the discharge microcomputer 32 can appropriately detect the current discharge regardless of the magnitude of this current discharge.

The comparison module 36 is controlled by means of the control voltage Vcc. The comparison module 36 outputs a signal CuD detect discharge H-level to the microcomputer 32 in the case that the signal current discharge, the output of the operational amplifier 37, is equal to or exceeds the second reference voltage Vr2. On the other hand, if the signal current discharge, the output of the operational amplifier 37, less voltage Vr2, the comparison module 36 outputs a signal CuD detect discharge L-level to the microcomputer 32. The comparison module 36 is designed to detect when the power supply to the main drive mechanism of the tool is started.

When the power supply to the main drive mechanism of the tool is started, the current discharge immediately increases due to the properties of the load (e.g. motor) and soon translated into a steady state. Therefore, the voltage is s Vr2, which is a criterion for the detection of discharge, may be set to different values. For example, the voltage Vr2 may be set to a voltage corresponding to the current value close to the current value in the steady state (for example, several tens of amperes), or the voltage corresponding to the current value, approximately one half of the current value in steady state. In the present embodiment, however, the voltage Vr2 is assigned a smaller value (for example, the voltage corresponding to 1 A) so that the discharge could be detected quickly without having to wait to reach a steady-state mode after the discharge is started.

The signal current discharge entered in the module 36 comparison is introduced from reinvestiruja amplifier circuit comprising an operational amplifier 37. The signal current discharge varies according to the level depending on the gain reinvestiruja amplifier circuit, as described above. In this configuration, provided that the strengthening reinvestiruja amplifying circuit remains fixed equal to the first gain, whereby a high current can be properly detected, it must be difficult to accurately detect a small amount of current discharge (for example, a few amps), for example, during low-speed rotation of elektrodvigatel who I am.

In the present embodiment, therefore, the microcomputer 32 switches the amplification reinvestiruja amplifier circuit to the second gain when the discharge is completed. Even a small amount of current discharge can be detected. Thus, the gain is set high enough so that a small current is satisfactorily detected. Then, when the discharge is detected, the gain switches back to the first amplification, whereby a strong current can satisfactorily be detected.

The objective of enabling switching gain reinvestiruja amplifying circuit essentially consists in letting accurately detect even a small amount of current, as described above. An additional objective is to facilitate rapid recovery (activation) of the microcomputer 32 of the energy saving mode to the normal operating state, when the discharge is restarted after the monitoring scheme goes into economy mode, as described below. Switching to a second gain at the end of the discharge allows you to accurately detect when the discharge is restarted, even when the current value is small, for example, during low-speed rotation of the motor and activate the monitoring scheme more quickly.

In the transistor Tr1, the base is connected to contact the mu terminal 51 through the resistor R6 and the diode D3, the emitter is connected to the ground potential, and a collector connected to the control voltage Vcc through a resistor R5. The collector is also connected to the port 49 input signal detection charger microcomputer 32.

When the battery source 10 power supply attached to the charger 20 for batteries, the control voltage Vdd generated in the charger 20 for batteries, is introduced into the regulator 33 through the diode D2, as described above. The control voltage Vdd is added as a signal connection from the charger into the base of transistor Tr1 through the resistor R6. As a result, the transistor Tr1 turns on. In addition, the electric potential of the collector of the transistor Tr1, i.e., the signal CHD detection charger, which must be entered in the microcomputer 32, is set to L-level.

When the charger 20 for batteries not connected to the battery source 10 of the power transistor Tr1 is turned off. In addition, the signal CHD detection charger, which must be entered in the microcomputer 32 becomes equal to H level due to the control voltage Vcc, which must be entered via the resistor R5. On the other hand, when the charger 20 for batteries connected to the battery source 10 feed is, the transistor Tr1 is turned on, as described above, due to signal a charger (voltage Vdd) from the battery charger 20 to the battery, whereby the signal CHD detection charger, which must be entered in the microcomputer 32, is set to L-level. Therefore, the microcomputer 32 may determine that it is connected or not a charger 20 for batteries, on the basis of the signal level CHD detection charger.

The microcomputer 32 has a known configuration that includes a CPU 61, ROM 62, RAM 63, an NVRAM (nonvolatile) 64, etc. as hardware. The microcomputer 32 is controlled by means of the control voltage Vcc generated by the regulator 33. The microcomputer 32 performs various control operations in accordance with various programs stored in the ROM 62.

The microcomputer 32 includes the following ports, which are input/output the signals: the port 41 of the input signal undervoltage detection, port 42 and the output signal of the selection element, the port 43 of the input voltage signal element, the port 44 of the input temperature signal element, the port 45 to the input of the detection signal of the discharge port 46 of the input signal current discharge port 47 of the output switching signal gain, the port 48 of the output is ignal off, port 49 input signal detection charger, port 50 of the output enable signal/stop charging, etc.

The signal LV undervoltage detection module 34 comparison is introduced into the port 41. Signal SEL of the selection element in the switch 38 of the selection item is displayed from the port 42. The signal CeV voltage element from the circuit 35 is introduced into the port 43. The signal CeT temperature of the element from the circuit 39 is introduced into the port 44. The signal CuD detect discharge from the comparison module 36 is introduced into the port 45. The signal current of the discharge from the operational amplifier 37 is introduced into the port 46. The signal GC switching gain is output from the port 47. The signal SD disable that controls the switch 40 is off, the output from the port 48. The signal CHD detection charger from the transistor Tr1 is put into port 49. The enable signal/stop charging (signal CP permits the charging signal CS charging in the charger 20 for batteries is output from the port 50.

In are explained in the following management processes for monitoring charging (see figure 4), the microcomputer 32 properly displays the signal CP permit charging or to the CS signal to stop charging to allow or stop the formation (or output) power for charging in the charger 20 for batteries.

In particular, when charging is permitted signal CP permits charging is displayed. Then the output signal CP is inserted with the contact clamp 52 of the battery source 10 of the power supply circuit 72 power supply to switch the charge within the battery charger 20 to the battery through terminal 82 of the battery charger 20 for batteries. This allows the circuit 72 to form (or output) power for charging.

On the other hand, when the charging is terminated, the signal CS termination charge is displayed. Then the scheme 72 inside the charger 20 for battery stops the formation (or output) power for charging in accordance with the output signal CS.

(2-2) the Electrical configuration of the battery charger to battery

Explains electrical configuration of the battery charger 20 for batteries. The charger 20 for a battery includes an input rectifier circuit 71, the circuit 72 power supply to switch the charging circuit 73 power supply, for switching control, the microcomputer 74, the output terminal 81 of the control voltage on the side of the charger and the input terminal 82 of the enable signal/stop charging.

The input rectifier circuit 71 rectifies the voltage of the external power source (in the present embodiment, the power source AC 100 V) to the voltage source charging the I DC.

The circuit 72 generates power charging to charge the battery 31 from a source of DC power rectified by the circuit 71.

The circuit 73 generates a control voltage Vdd on the side of the charger from the power source DC current rectified by the circuit 71. The control voltage Vdd needs to control the various circuits in the charger 20 for batteries.

The microcomputer 74 controls the formation of power for charging through a scheme 72. In other words, the microcomputer 74 controls the charging of the battery 31.

The contact clip 81 outputs the control voltage Vdd in the battery source 10 power.

The clamp 82 is a contact clip, which introduces the signal CP permit charging or CS signal termination charge from the battery source 10 power.

The charger 20 for batteries according to the present variant implementation is made with the ability to charge the battery 31 through a control at a constant current or control at a constant voltage. Switching between these modes is performed in accordance with the control command charging from the microcomputer 74. Thus, when charging is performed using the control at constant values of the current, the circuit 72 generates a charging current having a constant current value, as power for charging. Then the generated charge current is supplied to the battery source 10 power. On the other hand, when charging is performed by controlling at a constant voltage, the circuit 72 generates a charging voltage having a constant voltage value, as power for charging. Then the generated voltage in the battery source 10 power.

Power to charge generated by circuit 72, is fed into the battery source 10 power through the positive terminal clamp 21 on the side of the charger and the negative terminal 22 on the side of the charger to the charger 20 for batteries.

Although not shown in the drawings, the microcomputer 74 charger 20 for batteries has a known configuration, including CPU, ROM, RAM, NVRAM, etc. as hardware. The microcomputer 74 is controlled by the control voltage Vdd generated by the circuit 73. The microcomputer 74 performs various control operations in accordance with various programs stored in the ROM.

The control voltage Vdd generated by circuit 73, is also displayed in the battery source 10 power with the contact C is press 81. In other words, when the battery source 10 power supply attached to the charger 20 to the battery terminal 51 of the battery source 10 power supply connected to the contact clip 81. As a result, the control voltage Vdd generated in the charger 20 for a battery that is inserted into the battery source 10 power supply through the terminals 81 and 51.

In addition, when the battery source 10 power supply attached to the charger 20 to the battery terminal 52 of the battery source 10 power supply connected to the contact terminal 82 of the battery charger 20 for batteries. As a result, the signal CP permit charging or CS signal termination charge that is output from the microcomputer 32 in the battery source 10 power is introduced into the circuit 72 in the charger 20 for batteries through terminals 52 and 82.

The formation (or output) power to charge through the circuit 72 is controlled by a signal CP permit charging or signal CS charging from the battery source 10 power. In particular, when the signal CP is output from the battery source 10 power circuit 72 generates power for charging, and then outputs the power for charging the battery source 10 power. On the other hand, when the signal CS is output from AK is emulating source 10 power scheme 72 stops the formation (or output) power for charging, so that the power for charging could be introduced into the battery source 10 power (i.e. charging the battery 31 is prevented).

(3) Various control processes performed in the battery power source

In the battery source 10 power supply configured thus, the microcomputer 32 always monitors the battery 31 on the basis of the temperature of the element, the element stresses for each element of the battery, the electric current during the charging and discharging of the battery 31 and the like, when working without faults (normal operating condition), except in eco-mode and shutdown mode, which are explained next. The parameters that should be monitored by the microcomputer 32 in relation to the battery 31 is not limited to the above voltage element, the element temperature and the current charging/discharging, and other parameters can be monitored.

In normal working condition, the battery 31 is different is monitored by the microcomputer 32.

On the other hand, if these conditions for switching the microcomputer 32 in eco mode are satisfied, as in the case when the main drive mechanism of the tool does not accept the supply, the microcomputer 32 switches itself microcompute is 32 in eco mode. The power consumption of the battery 31 is thereby reduced in comparison with consumption in normal operating condition. In economy mode, however, the power in each section, including the microcomputer 32, the battery source 10 power does not stop completely. The minimum required operations are performed continuously, to return from suspend mode and activated.

In particular, after switching to eco mode, the microcomputer 32 determines, at least, begun or no discharge, based on the signal from the comparison module 36; connected or not a charger 20 for batteries, on the basis of the signal from the transistor Tr1, and low or no value Vz voltage below the voltage Vr1 (i.e. in the present example, low or no voltage Vbat of the battery is below 10), on the basis of the signal from the module 34 comparison.

Consequently, if any of the conditions of return, i.e. the condition where the discharge from the battery 31 is started, the condition where the battery charger 20 for batteries connected, and the condition where the value of Vz voltage falls below the voltage Vr1, is satisfied after switching to eco mode, the microcomputer 32 returns from suspend mode in normal operating condition. When returned due to early discharge, the microcomputer 32 controls the discharge, while tracking the status of the battery 31, as is described below. When returned due to a charger 20 for batteries, the microcomputer 32 enters the monitoring mode charging and performs the control processes for monitoring charging, including various control operations related to charging, monitoring the status of the battery 31 in the course of charging, etc. When returned by lowering the battery voltage, the microcomputer 32 shifts to a shutdown mode in which the power consumption of the battery 31 is still less than the consumption in economy mode.

In particular, the switch-off is performed using the disable switch 40 off in accordance with switch-off signal. Therefore, in the shutdown mode, the voltage Vbat of the battery is not given in the whole scheme of monitoring, including the stabilizer 33 in the battery source 10 power, whereby the operation of the entire monitoring scheme, including the microcomputer 32, completely halted.

The microcomputer 32 can be configured to continue operation required for activation, as described above, even if the value of Vz voltage falls below the voltage Vr1. In this case, although the power consumption is significantly lower than the consumption in normal operating condition, the battery voltage pot is blaese slowly, but steadily, whereby discharge of the battery 31 goes on, and the battery 31 can move in a state of excessive discharge. In the present embodiment, therefore, when the value of Vz voltage falls below the voltage Vr1, the priority is to prevent excessive battery discharge 31 according to the functions of the monitoring scheme. More specifically, the switch 40 off turns off and the power supply from the battery 31 in each section of the battery source 10 power thus is blocked completely.

However, even in shutdown mode, the remaining capacity of the battery and the voltage Vbat of the battery is gradually reduced in the long term due to the self-discharge of the battery 31. If the voltage Vbat of the battery additionally decreases, the control voltage Vcc generated by the stabilizer 33, also decreases. Eventually it becomes impossible to control the microcomputer 32 through the battery 31. In this case, the microcomputer 32 is unable to monitor the battery 31.

Thus, in the present embodiment, the following configuration is implemented. In other words, even if the voltage Vbat of the battery is reduced so that the control voltage Vcc required for the control microcomputer 32 may not b is to be formed, the microcomputer 32 can be controlled by using the control voltage Vdd from the battery charger 20 to the battery when the battery source 10 power supply attached to the charger 20 for batteries. As described above, even if the voltage Vbat of the battery decreases significantly, the monitoring of the battery 31 can be performed by the control microcomputer 32 during charging.

(3-1) Explanations of management processes for monitoring the state of batteries

Further in this document provides an explanation with reference to figa and 3B management processes for monitoring the state of batteries that are performed by the microcomputer 32, the battery source 10 power under this variant implementation, configured as described above. In the microcomputer 32 in the battery source 10, the CPU 61 reads the program management process from the ROM 62, and performs processes in accordance with the program.

When the management processes for monitoring the state of batteries started, initially determined that the connected or not a charger 20 for batteries (step S110) signal-based CHD entered in the port 49 of the microcomputer 32.

When it is determined that the charger 20 for batteries connected (step S110 is YES), the scheme monitor the ha, includes a microcomputer 32 in the battery source 10 power enters the monitoring mode charging, to perform the control processes for monitoring charging (step S120). In the monitoring mode charging, the microcomputer 32 sets the mode flag monitoring charging in the RAM 63. The microcomputer 32 also controls the charging of the battery 31 for monitoring the status of the battery 31 through the implementation of management processes to monitor charging. Details of management processes to monitor charging below with reference to figure 4.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the charger 20 for the battery is not connected (step S110, NO), is defined, below or not the voltage Vbat of the battery 10 (step S130), on the basis of the signal from the module 34 comparison. When it is determined that the voltage Vbat of the battery is below 10 (step S130 is YES), the monitor circuit switched (step S370) off after saving data performed because the battery 31 can move in a state of excessive charging. Thus, power from the battery 31 to the battery source 10 power is completely stopped by the shutdown switch 40 is off.

The above data retention is referred to as the conservation of the various data in the NVRAM 64 of the microcomputer 32 (for example, from the RAM 3 and the like), in which various data is stored. Various data may include, for example, different background, such as the number of charges, maximum and minimum values of the temperature of the element, the smallest and largest values of the current discharge.

After entering the shutdown mode, as described above, the shutdown mode is supported if the charger 20 for the battery is not connected and charging is thereby started. When the charger 20 for a battery is connected, the control voltage Vdd in the charger 20 for batteries is introduced into the regulator 33 through the diode D3 and the diode D2. The stabilizer 33 thereby begins to form the control voltage Vcc of the control voltage Vdd. The generated control voltage Vcc is entered into the microcomputer 32, which thereby begins to perform various control operations (operation mode without violations), including the management processes for monitoring the state of batteries.

When it is determined that the voltage Vbat of the battery is 10 V or higher (step S130) in the determination process at step S130, for each of the elements B1, B2,..., Bn battery is determined by what he has or not the voltage of the element is below a 2.0 In (step S140). When the voltage of the element for all elements of the battery is 2.0 or higher (step S140), is conducted by the SC state (step S150). On the other hand, when any of the elements of the battery has a voltage of the element is below a 2.0 In (step S140 is YES), the monitoring scheme goes into a prohibition of discharge (step S320).

In particular, the microcomputer 32 sets the mode flag to the prohibition of the discharge into the RAM 63 in the microcomputer 32, and outputs the signal to stop the discharge in the main drive mechanism of the tool. As a result, stops the power supply to the load (such as an actuator) in the drive mechanism of the tool (i.e. the discharge from the battery 31).

A status check at step S150 get various data showing the status of the battery 31, such as the voltage Vbat of the battery, the voltage of the element, the element temperature, current discharge, etc.

Then it is determined that more or no current discharge 80 A (step S160), on the basis of the signal introduced at port 46. When the current discharge more than 80 A (step S160 is YES), the monitoring scheme goes into failure mode discharge (step S310). To cease the discharge, in particular, the microcomputer 32 sets the flag of the cease discharging into the RAM 63 in the microcomputer 32, and outputs the signal to stop the discharge, as in the prohibition of the discharge, at step S320. The discharge from the battery 31 to the main drive mechanism of the tool is thereby terminated, and the process returns to checking the status at step S150

When the current discharge is 80 A or less (step S160), identified above or not the element temperature is 80°C (step S170), on the basis of the signal introduced at port 44. When the element temperature is above 80°C (step S170 is YES), the monitoring scheme goes into failure mode discharge (step S310), and the process returns to checking the status at step S150. On the other hand, when the element temperature is 80°C or below (step S170), again determined whether the voltage of the element is below a 2.0 In (step S180), in the same manner as at step S140. When any of the elements of the voltage is the voltage of the element is below a 2.0 In (step S180 is YES), the monitoring scheme goes into a prohibition of discharge (step S320), whereas, when all of the elements of the battery have a 2.0 or higher (step S180), the monitoring scheme goes into resolution mode discharge (step S190). In particular, the microcomputer 32 sets the flag resolution mode discharge in the RAM 63.

After the transition to the resolution mode discharge, the battery 31 is also continuing to be monitored by microcomputer 32. In particular, after the switch to permit discharge at step S190, initially determined that becomes or no current discharge is equal to 0 (step S200). During the discharge, i.e. at a time when the electric drive tool is used, the discharge is continuous (the tap S200 - NO), the process returns to checking the status at step S150. On the other hand, when the current discharge becomes equal to 0 (step S200 is YES), the microcomputer 32 outputs a signal of L-level from the port 47. Then the gain reinvestiruja amplifier circuit which includes an operational amplifier 37 and the other switches from the first gain in the initial state, the second gain, which is greater than the first amplification (step S210).

This allows, when the discharge is restarted next time, quickly locate the reset discharge, even when the current value is still small, for example, during low-speed rotation of the motor. In determining whether equal or not current discharge to 0 And, at step S200, the current discharge from the battery 31 and does not completely equal to 0 A and 0 And here refers to the condition when the battery 31, the accompanying power to the main drive mechanism of the tool is finished (i.e. the state when the power supply to the main drive mechanism of the tool becomes equal to 0 (A). In practice, therefore, the specified current value to detect the completion of the discharge can be set on the basis of the electricity consumed in each diagram, including the microcomputer 32 in the battery source 10 power. When the current discharge equal to or less than the set value t is ka, can be determined that the battery 31 is completed. The process continues to step S210, after the process at step S200.

After amplification reinvestiruja amplifying circuit is switched to the second amplification at step S210 that provides the ability to accurately detect even relatively small current discharge, again determined that more or no current discharge to 0 (step S220). In other words, is determined to confirm after the S200 is completed or there is no discharge from the battery 31 to the main drive mechanism of the tool.

Here, when determined that the current discharge is greater than 0 A, and the discharge is continuous (step S220 is YES), the microcomputer 32 again switches the amplification reinvestiruja amplifying circuit to the first amplification (step S230), and the process returns to step S150. On the other hand, when determined that the current discharge is determined as equal to 0 (step S220), the discharge is considered complete, and the process goes to step S240-S270 to determine what satisfied or not conditions for transition in economy mode, in other words, whether the battery 31 in a stable condition.

In particular, initially determined that, relative to the temperature of the element, whether the magnitude of the temperature change element dT/dt is less than, for example, 5°C (step S240). If the battery 31 is in the state be the disruption, the cell temperature should be gradually reduced after the discharge is finished. In an unstable state after the discharge is finished, before the battery 31 becomes stable, however, if any malfunctions occur in the element of the battery, for example, a small short circuit in the battery element, as described previously, the temperature of the element increases. By conducting the process in step S240, it becomes possible to detect a breach in the battery element by detecting an abrupt temperature increase of the element that guides a violation of the battery element.

When the magnitude of the temperature change element dT/dt is 5°C or more (step S240), it is determined that the battery element is in an unhealthy state (detection of malfunctions), and diagram of monitoring mode of the prohibition of charging/discharging (step S380), which prohibited both charging and discharging. After switching the prohibition of charging/discharging, the battery source 10 power cannot be charged and discharged, whereby the user can no longer use the battery source 10 power.

When it is determined that the magnitude of the temperature change element dT/dt is less than 5°C (step S240 is YES), the m is determined, more or no change in voltage element dV/dt of each of the battery cells, for example, than -100 mV (step S250). If, for example, a short circuit occurs in the battery element, the voltage sharply decreases. By conducting the process at step S250, it becomes possible to detect a breach in the battery element by detecting an abrupt voltage drop element that guides a violation of the battery element.

When it is determined that the change in voltage element dV/dt is equal to -100 mV or less in any of the elements of the battery (step S250), in other words, if demonstrates the tendency of a large voltage reduction element is determined that the battery element is in an unhealthy state, and the monitor circuit switches the mode of the prohibition of charging/discharging (step S380), which prohibited both charging and discharging.

When it is determined that the change in voltage element dV/dt is greater -100 mV in all elements of the battery (step S250 is YES), in other words, if demonstrates the tendency of a small voltage reduction element, then it is determined that whether the change in voltage element dV/dt 0 or less in each of the elements of the battery (step S260). When the magnitude of the changes n the voltage of the element dV/dt is greater than 0 (step S260 - NO), in other words, when the voltage of the element is increased, determined that although the malfunction does not occur in the battery cell, the battery 31 is in an unstable state immediately after the discharge is finished, and the process again returns to step S150.

On the other hand, when the magnitude of the voltage element dV/dt is equal to 0 or less, in other words, when determined that the increase in voltage of the element after the discharge is leveled and the battery 31 becomes stable (step S260 - YES), then it is determined that whether or not the element temperature T is lower than 60°C (step S270). This determination at the step S270 is different from the definition on the basis of the magnitude of the temperature change element at step S240. The determination at the step S270 is the definition based on the value of the temperature element. When the element temperature is 60°C or higher (step S270), it is determined that the battery 31 is still in an unstable state, and the process again returns to step S150. On the other hand, when it is determined that the element temperature is below 60°C (step S270 - YES), the microcomputer 32 considers that the conditions for switching to power saving mode is satisfied, and switches the microcomputer 32 in eco mode (step S280).

In economy mode the various operations monitoring (including monitoring voltage is lament, the temperature monitoring element and the monitoring of the current charging/discharging)performed in the microcomputer 32 in the normal operating condition, basically cease, and various operation control by microcomputer 32 also mostly stopped. However, operations that are required, at least, to return from suspend mode in normal operating state again, run continuously, as described above.

After switching to economy mode, if any of the conditions of return is satisfied (step S290), the monitor circuit is activated from eco-mode to its normal operating state (step S300), and the processes at step S110, and then run again. The above return conditions include a condition where the discharge from the battery 31 is started, the condition when the battery charger 20 for batteries connected, and the condition when the voltage Vbat of the battery is below 10 C. during the activation process at step S300 is also the process to return the gain, which is switched to the second amplification at step S210, the first gain.

For example, if the monitoring scheme returned from suspend mode due to a charger 20 for batteries to the battery source 10 power, the process proceeds from step S110 to step S120, and the monitoring scheme enters the monitoring mode charging to perform the control processes for monitoring charging.

In addition, for example, if the monitoring scheme returned from suspend mode by lowering the voltage Vbat of the battery is below 10, the process proceeds from step S110 to step S130. At step S130 is determined that the voltage Vbat of the battery is below 10 (step S130 is YES), the process goes to step S370 where the save data is performed, and the monitor circuit switches to the stop mode.

After switching prohibit discharge at step S320, the process proceeds to step S330, where the process definition, which is identical to the process in step S240 is performed. Thus, it is determined that whether the magnitude of the temperature change element dT/dt is less than 5°C. When the magnitude of the temperature change element dT/dt is equal to 5°C or more (step S330), it is determined that the battery element is in an unhealthy state, and the monitor circuit switches the mode of the prohibition of charging/discharging (step S380). On the other hand, when it is determined that the magnitude of the temperature change element dT/dt is less than 5°C (step S330 - YES), the process further proceeds to step S340. At step S340 is executed a process definition, which is identical to the process at step S250, i.e. it is determined that more or no change in voltage element dV/dt than -100 mV, in which each of the elements of the battery.

When it is determined that the change in voltage element dV/dt is equal to -100 mV or less in any of the elements of the battery (step S340), in other words, if demonstrates the tendency of a large voltage reduction element is determined that the battery element is in an unhealthy state, and the monitor circuit switches the mode of the prohibition of charging/discharging (step S380). On the other hand, when it is determined that the change in voltage element dV/dt is greater -100 mV in all elements of the battery (step S340 - Y), in other words, if demonstrates the tendency of a small voltage reduction element, the process further proceeds to step S350. At step S350 is executed a process definition, which is identical to the process in step S260, i.e. it is determined whether the change in voltage element dV/dt 0 or less in each of the battery cells.

When the magnitude of the voltage element dV/dt is greater than 0 (step S350), the process again returns to step S320. On the other hand, when the magnitude of the voltage element dV/dt is equal to 0 or less (step S350 - YES), the process further proceeds to step S360. At step S360 is executed a process definition, which is identical to the process at step S270, i.e. it is determined that whether or not the element temperature T is lower than 60°C.

When the tempo is the atur element 60°C or higher (step S360 - NO), the process again returns to step S320. On the other hand, when it is determined that the element temperature is below 60°C (step S360 - YES), the process goes to step S370 where the save data is performed, and the monitor circuit switches to the stop mode.

(3-2) an explanation of the management processes for monitoring charging

Further details are explained management processes for monitoring charging S120 management processes for monitoring the state of batteries shown in figa, with reference to figure 4.

When the battery source 10 power is connected (attached) to the charger 20 for battery management processes for monitoring charging S120 begin. Then, as shown in figure 4, is determined that whether the battery 31 is charged state (step S410), by tracking the status of the battery 31. This determination at the step S410 is performed based on, for example, the history of previous violations in the work stored in the NVRAM 64.

When the microcomputer 32 of the battery source 10 power supply detects a violation of the battery 31 through a monitoring function that monitors the status of the battery 31, the microcomputer 32 saves in the NVRAM 64 a history of violations in the work, indicating that charging of the battery 31 is prohibited. In the determination process at step S410, the EU and the background of the malfunction is stored in the NVRAM 64, is determined that the charging of the battery 31 is not possible (step S410). Then the CS signal termination charge is displayed in the battery charger 20 to the battery (step S500). As a result, prevents the input power to charge the battery 31 from the charger 20 for batteries.

After the specified process error handling is performed (step S510), the control processes for monitoring the charging is completed, and then the current process is returned to step S110 (see figa). The specified process error handling is, for example, the process to save in NVRAM 64 history of violations in the work, indicating that charging cannot be performed due to the malfunction of the battery 31.

On the other hand, when determined that the battery 31 is charged state, at step S410 (step S410 is YES), checking the status of the battery 31 is performed (step S420). Checking the status of the battery 31 includes, as an example, check excessive discharge of the battery 31 based on the signal LV undervoltage detection, verification voltage (voltage element) of each of the elements B1, B2,..., Bn battery voltage Vbat of the battery based on the signal CeV voltage of the element, check the temperature of the battery 31 based on the signal CeT temperature element, etc.

On the basis of the validation of SOS is sustainability at step S420 determines that if the battery 31 in the condition without disruption (step S430). If it is determined that the battery 31 is in an inoperable state in which the battery 31 should not be charged (step S430), for example, since the voltage of one of the elements B1, B2,..., Bn battery in the battery 31 is 0, the signal CS termination charge is displayed at step S500. After that, at step S510 is performed the process of error handling.

In the determination process at step S430, if it is determined that the battery 31 is in a state without disruption (step S430 - YES), the signal CP permits charging is displayed in the battery charger 20 to the battery (step S440). As a result, in the battery charger 20 to the battery circuit 72 generates and outputs the power to charge. Power for charging then introduced into the battery source 10 power, thereby initiating the charging of the battery 31.

After charging is started, the monitoring shown in step S450-S470, continues during charging. Processes S450-S460 are identical to the processes S420-S430 described above. In the process S450-S460 is determined by what is or is not the battery 31 in the condition without disruption, based on the verification status of the battery 31.

At step S470 is determined, finished or not charging the battery 31. This definition is as follows: is BSA voltage magnitude element in each element of the battery is obtained based on the signal CeV voltage element of each of the battery cells. Then, set it equal to the obtained total value (i.e. the voltage Vbat of the battery) to a predefined value (the value that indicates a fully charged condition).

The processes at step S450-S470 repeated until then, until determined at step S470 that charging is complete. If it is determined that charging is complete (step S470 - YES), the signal CS termination charge is displayed in the battery charger 20 to the battery (step S480). When the signal CS outputted, the output power for charging from the charger 20 to the battery is stopped, thereby stopping the charging of the battery 31. Next, a predetermined process of charging is complete (step S490) is performed. After that, the control processes for monitoring the charging is completed, and the current process is returned to step S110 (see figa).

(4) the Results of the above-described configuration

According to the above-described system 30 charging for electric drive tool of the present variant implementation, even if the voltage Vbat of the battery decreases, for example due to non-use of the battery source 10 power for a long period of time, the stabilizer 33 correctly generates the voltage Vcc on the basis instead of the voltage Vbat of the battery voltage Vdd from the battery charger 20 for batteries and thereby the AET job opportunity to the microcomputer 32. Thus, when charging the battery 31, in which the voltage Vbat of the battery decreases, the microcomputer 32 may perform an operation of monitoring the voltage Vdd from the battery charger 20 to battery whilst charging the battery 31.

As another power source (auxiliary supply), which may be granted in the case of lowering the voltage Vbat of the battery, various methods can be adapted, non-use control voltage Vdd in the charger 20 for batteries, as in the above embodiment.

In this respect, the charger 20 for batteries originally equipped with a power supply circuit 73. The circuit 73 generates a control voltage Vdd to control various circuits in the charger 20 for batteries. In addition, it is especially important to monitor the status of the battery 31 during charging of the battery 31 through a charger 20 for batteries.

Therefore, as in the above embodiment, may be such a configuration that when the battery source 10 power supply connected to the charger 20 for batteries, the control voltage Vdd in the charger 20 for a battery is inserted in the battery is the first source 10 power. This configuration can simplify the configuration of the power supply auxiliary power supply. In addition, it is possible to reliably track the battery 31 through the control microcomputer 32, at least when the battery 31 is charged.

In addition, the battery source 10 power supply & battery charger 20 for batteries equipped with the respective lead terminals (lead terminals 51 and 81) for input and output control voltage Vdd. Terminals 51 and 81 are provided separately from the respective contact terminals 11 and 12 and 21 and 22 for input and output power for charging. As described above, may be such a configuration that the control voltage Vdd is introduced from the charger 20 for batteries in the battery source 10 power through terminals 51 and 81. Through the above configuration, when the battery source 10 power supply attached to the charger 20 to the battery terminals 51 and 81 are connected to each other. Accordingly, the control voltage Vdd can be reliably fed into the battery source 10 power, thereby enabling the microcomputer 32 to reliably operate while charging.

The control voltage Vdd input to the battery source 10 power from the charger 20 for batteries, hard is introduced into the stabilizer 33 in the battery source 10 power. Also, the control voltage Vdd is used to detect that the battery source 10 is connected (attached) to the charger 20 for batteries. Therefore, it becomes possible to provide a charging system that provides a simple and effective detection, attached or not the battery source 10 power to the charger 20 for batteries.

When the battery source 10 power supply connected to the charger 20 for batteries, the microcomputer 32 of the battery source 10 first performs a power monitoring the battery 31 to determine what is or is not the battery 31 is charged by the state and operates or not the battery 31 in the mode without violations (step S410 and S430 figure 4). If the battery 31 is charged condition and without disabilities, the microcomputer 32 outputs a signal CP permit charging in the charger 20 to the battery, thereby charging the battery 31.

Thus, the occurrence of the following problems can not be excluded even if the battery 31 should not be charged as a violation in the work etc. has arisen in the battery 31, the battery 31 is charged.

This version of the implementation is designed in such a way that the voltage Vbat of the battery is put into stabilizat the R 33 through the diode D1, and the control voltage Vdd is introduced into the regulator 33 through the diode D2. This simple configuration allows the regulator 33 to form the control voltage Vcc based on the greater of the voltage Vbat of the battery and the control voltage Vdd.

In the battery source 10 power under this variant implementation, the diode D3 is connected to the current-carrying path leading from the contact clamp 51 to the diode D2. Therefore, if the voltage Vbat of the battery, which should be put in the stabilizer 33, is directed to be displayed on the terminal of the battery charger 20 to the battery for any reason, such as a fault in the diode D2 and the like, this conclusion can be prevented by diode D3. In other words, the diode D3 will prevent the output voltage Vbat of the battery charger 20 for battery contact clamp 51.

Modification

It should be understood that the above-described configuration of the present invention is not limited thereby and can take various forms, while still being within the scope applicable for the present invention.

For example, in addition to the configuration of providing the diode D3, various configurations can accommodate up until such configuration can prevent the output of the control voltage is Vcc in the charger 20 for battery contact clamp 51.

For example, as shown in figure 5, the fuse 55 may be provided on the current-carrying path running between the contact clamp 51 and the diode D2. Also in this case, as shown in figure 5, the Zener diode D5 is preferably connected between the contact clamp 51 and the ground potential. In particular, the Zener diode D5 is connected so that its cathode is connected to the contact terminal 51, and its anode connected to the terminal of the ground potential.

Rechargeable source 100 power figure 5 has the same configuration as the battery source 10 power figure 2, except for the following points: rechargeable source 100 power supply fitted fuse 55 instead of the diode D3 battery source 10 power; and a battery source 100 power is supplied by the Zener diode D5.

The same result is obtained by means of the configuration, which includes a diode D3 in figure 2, can be achieved through configuration, which includes a fuse 55 and the Zener diode D5.

The details of the configurations of the stabilizer 33 is not limited to a particular manner. For example, increasing the stabilizer can be used to generate the control voltage Vcc on the side of the battery is greater than the entered voltage.

In some cases, for example, when the microcomputer 32 upravlaet is using the voltage Vbat of the battery, or when the monitoring scheme, controlled voltage Vbat of the battery provided separately from the microcomputer 32, the following configuration can be used. In other words, the voltage Vbat of the battery may be supplied directly to the microcomputer 32 (monitoring scheme) without passing through the stabilizer. In addition, the control voltage Vdd can rise to the voltage Vbat of the battery through the regulator, and then the increased voltage can be fed to the microcomputer 32 (monitoring scheme).

If the control voltage Vdd generated in the charger 20 for a battery that is equal to the control voltage Vcc, the following configuration can be used. Thus, the control voltage Vdd (=Vcc), injected into the battery source 10 power from the charger 20 for batteries, can be introduced without any change together with the control voltage Vcc to the microcomputer 32.

It should be understood that the parameters that should be monitored, which is to be displayed in the charger 20 for batteries from the battery source 10 is not limited to the above-described signals CP and CS. For example, various signals, data, etc. can be displayed in the charger 20 for batteries as long as they directly or indirectly indicate the status of the battery 31.

Furthermore, in addition to the battery 31 additional power source, such as a flat circular element, etc. may be provided in the battery source 10 power. Then, if the voltage Vbat of the battery decreases, the microcomputer 32 can be controlled using the internally provided power source.

Additional power can be provided in various forms up until the following condition is met: sufficient electric power can be fed, at least during charging to do the microcomputer 32 is operable to monitor the battery 31, even when the voltage Vbat of the battery is reduced, and the microcomputer 32 becomes inoperative low voltage Vbat of the battery.

In the above embodiment, the battery 31 is made through four battery cells connected in series, just as PR is a measure. However, the number of battery cells constituting the battery 31 is not limited specifically, and the battery 31 may include only one element of a battery, or may be accomplished via many elements of the battery are connected in series-parallel. It should be understood that the voltage of each element of the battery and the battery voltage is also not limited to the values illustrated in the above embodiment.

In the above embodiment, a lithium-ion rechargeable battery is illustrated as each of the battery cells constituting the battery 31 as an example. However, a primary battery or a battery other than a lithium-ion rechargeable battery, can also be applied to the present invention as elements of the battery.

1. The system of monitoring the state of batteries for electric drive tool containing a battery power source for the electric drive tool and the auxiliary power source,
- battery power source includes:
- the battery, which is used as a source of excitation power for the electric drive tool and has, at the ore, one element of the battery; and
- monitoring scheme, which is driven by electric power supplied from the battery, and monitors the status of the battery, and
- auxiliary power supply is provided within or separately from the rechargeable power source, and outputs the electric power, allowing the monitoring scheme to work, and
while monitoring scheme implemented with the possibility to operate from power supplied from the auxiliary power source when the monitoring scheme becomes unhealthy when the electric power of the battery due to the decrease of battery voltage.

2. The system of monitoring the state of batteries according to claim 1, in which at least one element of the battery included in the battery pack is a rechargeable battery element,
- the system of monitoring the state of batteries additionally includes a charger for batteries for electric drive tool which is designed so that the rechargeable power source is removable attached to a charger for batteries, and a charger for batteries generates and outputs the power to charge for recharging the battery, and
in which the auxiliary power source is provided in Ariadna device for batteries and an auxiliary power source configured to allow the power supply auxiliary power source in the battery power source when the rechargeable power source connected to a charger for batteries.

3. The system of monitoring the state of batteries according to claim 2, in which the charger for batteries includes contact clip on the side of the charger that outputs the electric power of the auxiliary power source in the battery power supply, and
in which the rechargeable power source includes a contact clip on the side of the rechargeable power source that is connected to the contact clip on the side of the charger, when the battery power source connected to a charger for batteries, and the electric power of the auxiliary power source, the output of the contact clip on the side of the charger, is introduced into the battery power supply through a terminal on the side of the rechargeable power source.

4. The system of monitoring the state of batteries according to claim 2, in which the battery power source includes an output terminal that outputs the system parameters by monitoring scheme in the charging device is on battery, and
which charger for batteries includes an input terminal which is connected to the output contact terminal when the battery power source connected to a charger for batteries, and the system parameters that are output from the output pin of the clamp is inserted in the charger to the batteries through the input terminal.

5. The system of monitoring the state of batteries according to claim 4, in which the monitor circuit includes:
module to determine the feasibility of charging, which defines what is or is not the battery charge condition, by monitoring the condition of the battery; and
module output signals, which displays, as one of the monitored parameters, the permission signal charge to the output terminal when it is determined that the battery is in a charged state by the module to determine the feasibility of charging enable signal charge indicates that the battery is in the charged state,
- charger for batteries brings power for charging the rechargeable power source when the permission signal charge is injected into the charger for batteries from rechargeable power source through the input pin is aim.

6. The system of monitoring the state of batteries according to claim 2,
in which the battery power source additionally includes a detection module that detects that the rechargeable power source connected to a charger for batteries, based on the input electric power of the auxiliary power source when the electric power of the auxiliary power source is injected into the battery power supply attaching the battery power source to the charger for the batteries.

7. The system of monitoring the state of batteries according to claim 2, in which the battery power source additionally includes a power supply circuit, in which are inserted the battery voltage and the voltage of the auxiliary power source and the power supply circuit generates the voltage of the working power for actuation monitoring scheme based on one of the battery voltage and the voltage of the auxiliary power source, and
in which the monitoring scheme implemented with the possibility to work from the source of operating power generated by the power supply circuits.

8. The system of monitoring the state of batteries according to claim 7, in which the power supply circuit generates the voltage of the working power on the new larger battery voltage and the voltage of the auxiliary power source.

9. The monitoring system for the battery of claim 8, in which the power supply circuit includes:
diagram of the formation into which one of the battery voltage and the voltage of the auxiliary power source, and circuit formation forms the voltage of the working power on the basis of input voltage;
a first diode having a cathode connected to the input terminal of the shaping circuit, and the anode, which is the battery voltage, and
a second diode having a cathode connected to the input terminal of the shaping circuit, and the anode, which is the voltage of the auxiliary power source.

10. The system of monitoring the state of batteries according to claim 7, in which the battery power source additionally includes a module stop the output, which is provided on the current-carrying path, coming from the place where the voltage of the auxiliary power source is injected into the battery power source, to the place where the voltage of the auxiliary power source reaches of power supply circuits, and module stop the output from the output voltage of the battery, which should be put in the power supply circuit, a terminal of the auxiliary power source through the current-carrying path.

11. The monitoring system for the battery of claim 10, in which the module is pre the treatment o is the third diode, with:
the cathode connected to the power supply circuit; and
the anode, which is the voltage of the auxiliary power source.

12. The monitoring system for the battery of claim 10, in which the automatic termination of the output is a fuse.

13. Rechargeable power source for electric driving tool, comprising:
a battery having at least one element of the battery; and
- monitoring scheme, which is driven by electric power supplied from the battery, and monitors the battery status,
while monitoring scheme implemented with the possibility to operate from power supplied from the auxiliary power source that is different from the battery when the monitor circuit is inoperative when the electric power of the battery due to the decrease of battery voltage.

14. Charger for batteries for electric drive tool is designed so that the charger for the batteries removable attached to the rechargeable power source for electric drive tool, while the rechargeable power source includes:
a battery having at least one element of the battery; and
- monitoring scheme, livadiay activated by electricity, supplied from the battery, and monitors the status of the battery, and
- charger for battery generates and outputs the power to charge for recharging the battery,
- charger for batteries additionally includes an auxiliary power source that outputs the electric power, allowing you to work scheme, monitoring, and
- charger for batteries made with the ability to prevent the power supply auxiliary power source in the battery power source when the rechargeable power source connected to a charger for batteries.