ABC-600NS Installation, Operation and Maintenan e
31565-03_01 Page 9 of 51 Webasto Charging Systems, Inc.
regulated voltage and the voltage level may be varied on demand, as with
a conventional DC power supply. In addition, the ABC-600NS allows the
user to define voltage, current and power limits to protect the load and
maintain safe operating conditions. The ABC-600NS also allows for bi-
directional power flow (i.e., it allows the load to discharge current back to
the utility), unlike standard power supplies. However, when the utility
voltage is lost, the ABC-600NS will cease operation.
Constant Current Source
In Current Mode, the ABC-600NS regulates the current of a given DC
output channel. As in constant Voltage Mode, the load may draw or provide
current bi-directionally subject to user-defined limits.
Battery Quick Charging
Battery charging algorithms vary considerably depending on many factors.
A basic quick charging algorithm involves charging the battery at a constant
current rate (i.e., the maximum charge rate) until a certain voltage level is
reached and then maintaining that voltage level while the charge rate
decreases to a trickle charge. This can be accomplished very simply with
the ABC-600NS.
By setting the correct upper voltage limit and operating the system in
constant Current Mode, the user can assure that the ABC-600NS will
charge the battery at the desired current until its voltage rises to the limit
and will then maintain that voltage. No manual adjustment is needed
during the test.
More complicated battery charge algorithms can be achieved by modifying
the operating limits, modes and command values as the test proceeds.
Such algorithms can be implemented manually or they can be programmed
and run automatically using the ABC-600NS Remote Operation System.
Battery ack Cycling
Battery packs used in electric vehicles (EV) endure constantly changing
demands. As the vehicle accelerates and brakes, the battery may go from
rapid discharge to charge and back again in a matter of seconds. In
addition, the daily driving and charging of an electric vehicle puts the
battery through a large number of deep discharge cycles, resulting in
shortened battery life.
Because of these factors, EV battery pack testing is highly important but
also very difficult. Simulating the demands of an electric vehicle on a
battery pack requires computer controlled testing with a highly accurate
and responsive battery cycling system.
The ABC-600NS was designed specifically to handle the demands of EV
battery pack cycling. Using the ABC-600NS Remote Operating System,
USABC compliant tests can be developed and run to verify battery pack
adherence to requirements. Repetitive use of these automated compliant
test profiles can be used for comparative research as well as production
level testing.
