INTERNAL SHORT CIRCUIT DETECTION

A method includes operating a device having a rechargeable energy storage system (RESS) including parallel groups of cells having overcurrent protection elements, by passing a current through the cells based on instructions provided by a processor; obtaining sensor data via sensors; determining, via the processor, whether a cell group has a decreasing resistance rate of change; when the cell group has a decreasing resistance rate of change, determining, via the processor, whether the cell group has a sufficient voltage deviation indicative of an internal short circuit condition; when the cell group does not, determining, via the processor, whether the cell group has a voltage rate of change unrelated to the current; and when the cell group has a voltage rate of change unrelated to the current, concluding, via the processor, that an internal short circuit exists and modifying operation of the device to prevent damage to the RESS.