For a mobile systems, there is a need to charge the batteries every so often. Some systems allow for charging the batteries while still running some operations. While it is more convenient, it is also not recommended to keep charging and discharging the batteries in the same time. Hence, a switch is implemented.
This little project uses a bipolar switch or double pole, double throw (DPDT) switch. The idea is to separate discharge circuit on one end and charge circuit on the other.
Referring to the image above, middle terminal will be the common connection, which is to the battery. Top terminal is for discharging, which connects to a jumper system and bottom is for charging, which goes to the DC barrel plug, 2.5mm x 2.1mm. This size is common for DC charger and can accept a wide range of charger wattage, depending on the battery needs.
The battery used in this example is a 12v 10AH lithium iron phosphate battery (LFP battery). But any battery is acceptable depending on the application. For the discharging circuit, it is connection to a jumper system made from an array of Anderson PowerPole terminals. Again, feel free to use any type of jumper systems or even directly to the component (if only one is present).
The casing for these components are made from 3D printed ABS. An extra feature included is a twistable bracket to easily mount them on aluminum extrusions.
GrabCad links below:
https://grabcad.com/library/anderson-powerpole-jumper-bracket-1
https://grabcad.com/library/switch-box-24
Hope you enjoy the build.
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