Design of special application chargers is challenging, especially if
products require fast charging capability, small size, and no cooling
fan. In this case, the approach of building prototype and testing to meet
specifications can be time consuming and costly.
Thermal modeling helps engineers to foresee their design options in
advance.
Test Conditions:
-
4 cell charge, 4 cell
discharge
-
Power supply: 12 watts
- Resistors: 21.6 watts
- Charge logic:
4.5 watts
- Charge
ICs: 6.8 watts
Thermal
modeling was used to establish a design with
maximized natural convection cooling. The effects
of fan-cooling vs. fin cooling were also
determined. Note that in fin cooling, the
battery/power supply surrounding remain 7-10°C
higher than when using fan cooling.
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Modeling Examples |
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