Engineering topics
Publications and source records attributed to Lurie, Charles.
Nickel-hydrogen cell reversal characteristics are being studied as part of a TRW program directed towards development of a high current battery cell bypass switch. The following are discussed: cell bypass switch; nickel-hydrogen cell reversal characteristics; and nickel-hydrogen cell chemistry: discharge/reversal and overdischarge (reversal) with nickel and hydrogen precharge.
The question of the best approach for battery charge control is addressed from two points of view: from the battery point-of-view; and from the spacecraft/mission point-of-view. In terms of performance, more aggressive charging can result in higher discharge voltage and capacity; however, aggressive charging usually implies more overcharge at higher rates and a concomitant higher end of charge temperature (higher stress, shorter life). In terms of life, benign charging can result in lower discharge voltage and capacity (poorer performance). Additionally, benign, or low stress charging, usually implies less overcharge at lower rates with lower end of charge temperature (lower stress, longer life). A discussion of these topics is presented in viewgraph form.