What is battery management system (BMS)?

Battery Management System (BMS) is the “intelligent manager” of modern battery packs, widely used in fields such as electric vehicles, energy storage stations, and consumer electronics.

How do battery management systems work?

Battery management system (BMS) is technology dedicated to the oversight of a battery pack, which is an assembly of battery cells, electrically organized in a row x column matrix configuration to enable delivery of targeted range of voltage and current for a duration of time against expected load scenarios.

Why is a battery pack monitored by a BMS?

Each cell or group of cells in the battery pack is continuously monitored by the BMS to make sure they are operating within the specified parameters. Monitoring is crucial for real-time management as well as for gathering information that may be used to forecast the battery pack's future performance and health.

Why do we need a battery management system?

Along with the advancement of rechargeable battery technologies came the necessity for battery management. Lead-acid batteries were commonly utilized in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Simple voltage regulators were used to prevent the overcharging that might lead to battery failure in early batteries.

What is a BMS & how does it work?

Communication: The BMS provides interfaces for communication with external systems, such as vehicle control units or energy management systems, enabling real-time monitoring, remote diagnostics, data logging, and seamless integration with other vehicle functions.

How does a BMS protect a lithium-ion battery?

Figure 1 illustrates a typical lithium-ion cell SOA, and a well-designed BMS will protect the pack by preventing operation outside the manufacturer’s cell ratings. In many cases, further derating may be applied to reside within the SOA safe zone in the interest of promoting further battery lifespan.