SOC Estimation Based on OCV for NiMH Batteries Using an Improved Takacs Model

Abstract

This paper presents a new method for the estimation of State of Charge (SOC) for NiMH batteries. Among the conventional methods to estimate SOC, Coulomb Counting is widely used, but this method is not precise due to error integration. Another method that has been proposed to estimate SOC is by using a measurement of the Open Circuit Voltage (OCV). This method is found to be a precise one for SOC estimation. In NiMH batteries, the hysteresis characteristic of OCV is very strong compared to other type of batteries. Another characteristic of NiMH battery to be considered is that the OCV of a NiMH battery under discharging mode is lower than it is under charging mode. In this paper, the OCV is modeled by a simple method based on a hyperbolic function which well known as Takacs’s model. The OCV model is then used for SOC estimation. Although the model is simple, the error is within 10%.