Internal network for the battery system
The internal controller area network connects the master to pack peripherals such as isolation monitors, temperature and humidity sensors, and voltage and current sensors. It also carries detailed raw voltage and temperature values from the battery system.
This network is used for configuration work and firmware updates to the BetterBMS master. Keeping it distinct from the vehicle interface lets the pack retain the detailed information engineers need without making every raw signal a vehicle message.
External network for the vehicle
The external controller area network communicates with the vehicle control unit. It can receive vehicle commands and provides the pack-level values the vehicle needs, including pack voltage, voltage and temperature limits, state of charge, state of health, and charge and discharge limits.
- Vehicle protocolBetterBMS communicates the vehicle-facing information through SAE J1939 messages.
- Pack configurationCell chemistry, layout, current limits, thermal thresholds, and charge profiles are set for the specific battery system.
- Supported adaptersThe software supports industry-standard controller area network adapters including Kvaser, PCAN, and IXXAT.
Integration needs a real signal plan
The exact message mapping, update method, and controller behavior should be defined with the vehicle project. EVDrive will review the vehicle control unit, current and isolation sensing, contactor requirements, and any existing controller area network constraints before finalizing the configuration.
For an AEM-based build, EVDrive can discuss using BetterBMS satellites with an AEM mini-master. Compatibility and final behavior depend on the complete battery and vehicle configuration.