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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Charging system having electromagnetic field means for distinguishing between primary and secondary batteries

Patent ·
OSTI ID:5503892

A battery charging system adapted to distinguish a rechargeable battery type from a non-rechargeable type is described, both types being of substantially similar shape and size. The system consists of: a rechargeable battery circuit having a first non-charging mode and a second charging mode, the circuit having first and second contacts arranged for engagement with the first and second external load terminals, respectively, of the rechargeable battery; a radiating device for radiating an electromagnetic field proximate to the battery when the battery is placed in engagement with the contacts of the charging circuit; the rechargeable battery including indicating means responsive to the electromagnetic field for providing an indication distinguishing the rechargeable battery from a non-rechargeable battery; and enabling means responsive to the indication from the indicating means and in response thereto enabling the charging mode of the charging circuit, whereby the charging circuit will be enabled for charging only batteries of the rechargeable type.

Assignee:
General Electric Co., Gainesville, FL
Patent Number(s):
US 4577145
OSTI ID:
5503892
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English