What is battery management system (BMS)?

Battery Management System (BMS) is the “intelligent manager” of modern battery packs, widely used in fields such as electric vehicles, energy storage stations, and consumer electronics.

How do battery management systems work?

Battery management system (BMS) is technology dedicated to the oversight of a battery pack, which is an assembly of battery cells, electrically organized in a row x column matrix configuration to enable delivery of targeted range of voltage and current for a duration of time against expected load scenarios.

How will BMS technology change the future of battery management?

As the demand for electric vehicles (EVs), energy storage systems (ESS), and renewable energy solutions grows, BMS technology will continue evolving. The integration of AI, IoT, and smart-grid connectivity will shape the next generation of battery management systems, making them more efficient, reliable, and intelligent.

Why are battery management systems important?

Safety represents the primary driver behind BMS requirements in most applications, as modern lithium-ion batteries store tremendous amounts of energy in compact packages. Beyond safety considerations, battery management systems provide significant performance benefits that justify their implementation.

How are battery management systems changing?

Battery management systems are changing faster than ever, and three major technological changes are about to reshape how these vital systems work and connect with their surroundings. AI and machine learning are bringing new capabilities to BMS through advanced predictive analytics.

How does a BMS protect a battery pack?

Monitoring battery pack current and cell or module voltages is the road to electrical protection. The electrical SOA of any battery cell is bound by current and voltage. Figure 1 illustrates a typical lithium-ion cell SOA, and a well-designed BMS will protect the pack by preventing operation outside the manufacturer’s cell ratings.