Tool/software:
I plan to use the BQ24610 charger IC together with a commercial off-the-shelf BMS for a 6-series Li-ion battery pack. I need the BMS because it provides active cell balancing and allows me to monitor the pack’s state of charge (SoC).
In my application:
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The BMS must remain permanently connected to the battery.
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The charger should only be connected when charging.
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During charging, the system load must also draw current from the charger through the power path, not just from the battery.
My initial idea was to connect the BMS's charger positive terminal (Charger+) to the Pack+ input of the BQ24610. The battery will only be connected to the BMS. The thought is that when charging is enabled, the BMS internally shorts B+ (battery positive) and C+ (charger positive) through its FETs, effectively allowing the charger to supply both the battery and the load.
My questions are:
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Is this approach feasible?
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If not, what is the correct way to configure the connections so that:
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The BMS stays connected at all times,
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The charger can be safely plugged/unplugged, and
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The system can draw current from the charger while charging?
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I’ve included a block diagram of my proposed setup below for reference:
