A Low-Cost Hardware Architecture for EV Battery Cell Characterization Using an IoT-Based Platform

Area of Science:

• Sustainable energy solutions
• Battery technology and recycling
• Electric vehicle components

Background:

• Increasing volumes of discarded Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) and Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries from hybrid and electric vehicles present recycling challenges due to hazardous materials.
• The obsolescence of hybrid vehicles and the shift towards electric mobility accelerate battery waste generation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a cost-effective system for characterizing individual electric vehicle battery cells.
• To identify underperforming cells for potential second-life applications, thereby extending battery lifespan and minimizing regeneration expenses.
• To promote a more sustainable approach to battery waste management.

Main Methods:

• Development of an Internet of Things (IoT) platform for automated battery cell characterization.
• Implementation of automated charging and discharging cycles for individual cells based on user-defined parameters.
• Real-time monitoring of battery cell performance data.

Main Results:

• The proposed IoT system effectively characterizes individual battery cells from commercial electric vehicles.
• A case study using a Toyota Prius battery demonstrated the system's suitability for identifying cells for second-life applications.
• The system facilitates a decrease in operating costs associated with battery repurposing.

Conclusions:

• The developed IoT-based system offers a viable, autonomous, flexible, and reliable solution for characterizing electric vehicle battery cells.
• This approach supports the sustainable reuse of batteries in second-life applications, reducing waste and operational expenses.
• The findings contribute to more efficient and environmentally friendly battery management strategies in the automotive sector.