Patent ID: 6074778
Filing Date: 2000-06-13
Classification: F21L,H01M

Abstract:
A method for extending a useful life of batteries used in a battery-powered apparatus, wherein the apparatus includes a main battery housing, an extension housing, at least one dry cell DC battery, at least one conductive blank, a first contact, a second contact, and at least one voltage consuming load electrically coupled between the first and the second contact, wherein the at least one dry cell DC battery and the at least one conductive blank complete an electrical circuit between the first and the second contact, the method comprising the steps of:placing at least one dry cell DC battery in the main battery housing of the battery-powered device;placing the least one conductive blank in the extension housing;forming an electrical connection with the at least one dry cell DC battery in the main battery housing and the at least one conductive blank in the extension housing;periodically measuring the voltage of each at least one dry cell DC battery;removing the at least one conductive blank in the extension housing when the voltage of the at least one dry cell DC battery falls below a threshold voltage level for operation of the battery-powered device, andplacing at least one partially charged battery in the extension housing for increasing the available voltage to the battery-powered device.