Patent Grant
11332015
The present disclosure relates to a power supply charging system. The present disclosure may relate to a power supply charging system adapted to alternatingly change and discharge two or more power cells to provide a continuous current. The present disclosure may relate to a power supply charging system which is able to be adapted for a number of both fixed and portable applications, and can even be integrated into another system or structure.
A number of transportation vehicles utilize secondary power systems to power equipment. The equipment may be located within the vehicle or located outside of the vehicle. The secondary power systems may include generators, additional batteries, alternative energy systems integrated into the vehicle, or a combination thereof. For example, vocational vehicles such as pickups or vans used in construction may carry a generator on board to power tooling at a construction site. Emergency response vehicles, such as ambulances and fire engines may include batteries for powering medical equipment in a cargo area of the emergency vehicle. The battery of an emergency response vehicle may be affixed to the vehicle's alternator for charging or may be charged in between uses of the vehicle while parked.
Some challenges presented by using generators on site is they may introduce additional noise in to the environment which neighbors may find disturbing, may alert individuals about the presence of expensive construction equipment in the area, and/or may introduce unpleasant fumes into the ambient environment. Generators, and other portable energy systems, may even be sensed by their thermal presence, such as by having a temperature higher than surrounding ambient temperatures. Some power systems, while portable, may still be too large to be easily manually transported from one location to another, such as by one or two individuals. Challenges presented by using batteries integrated into a vehicle with the alternator or requiring them to be charged between uses of the vehicle include: a limited power supply, draining the batteries if the vehicle motor is not running, limited parking space having available power connections for recharging, and/or the inability to move the battery from the vehicle. Another challenge with typical power supply systems is that they typically need to be recharged. These systems either need be connected back to an electrical power grid, refilled with fossil fuel, and the like. Some power charging systems address some of these challenges, such as that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,941,710, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. Notwithstanding the teachings therein, there is still a need for a power supply system which is easily portable, transportable, can provide power off-grid, and is minimally detectable by sound, smell, or temperature.
What is needed is a power supply charging system which can be permanently or temporarily located within a vehicle. What is needed is a power supply system which operates quietly, does not release fumes, and does not operate at higher temperatures than a surrounding ambient environment. What is needed is a power supply charging system which can be completely self-sufficient while removed from a typical electrical power grid. What is needed is a power supply charging system which can be recharged between uses without connecting to an electrical power grid.
The present disclosure relates to a power supply charging system comprising: a) a first power cell having electrical energy stored therein; b) a second power cell having electrical energy stored therein, wherein the first power cell and the second power cell are adapted to not be in a discharging mode or a charging mode simultaneously; c) a third power cell in electrical communication with the first power cell and the second power cell, wherein the third power cell is adapted to operably supply power to the first power cell when in the charging mode or the second power cell when in the charging mode; and d) a control system which is adapted to alternate the power being supplied from the third power cell to the first power cell while in the charging mode and the second power cell which in the charging mode based on an occurrence of a pre-determined condition.
The present disclosure relates to a power supply charging system comprising: a) a first power cell having electrical energy stored therein; b) a second power cell having electrical energy stored therein, wherein the first power cell and the second power cell are adapted to not be in a discharging mode or a charging mode simultaneously; c) a third power cell in electrical communication with the first power cell and the second power cell, wherein the third power cell is adapted to operably supply power to the first power cell when in the charging mode or the second power cell when in the charging mode; d) a control system which is adapted to alternate the power being supplied from the third power cell to the first power cell while in the charging mode and the second power cell which in the charging mode based on an occurrence of a pre-determined condition; and e) one or more electrical inputs in communication with the control system and adapted to be electrically connected to one or more alternative energy systems such that the control system may supply power from the one or more alternative energy systems to the first power cell, second power cell, third power cell, or any combination thereof when the power supply charging system is connected to the one or more alternative energy systems.
The power supply charging system of the presenting teachings may also include any combination of the following features: the power supply charging system may be permanently, semi-permanently, or removably affixed and within a vehicle; the power supply system may be located within an engine compartment, instrument panel, vehicle interior, chassis, underbody, powertrain, cargo area, vehicle exterior, or any combination thereof of a vehicle; a vehicle may include one or more outlets in electrical communication with the power supply charging system; the power supply charging system may power one or more auxiliary components of a vehicle; the power supply charging system may be electrically connected to a wiring system of a vehicle; the power supply charging system may be in electrical communication with one or more batteries of an electric motor of a vehicle; the power supply charging system may recover lost energy from a vehicle and may converts the energy to electrical power stored within the first power cell, the second power cell, the third power cell, or any combination thereof; the control system may be located within a housing of the power supply charging system, part of a power receiving system, part of a vehicle, within a user interface, or any combination thereof; the control system may include one or more boards, processors, controllers, microprocessors, microcontrollers, or a combination thereof; the control system may include a power balancing module; the power balancing module may be configured to sense one or more operating conditions of the power cells, may evaluate the one or more operating conditions of the power cells, and may instruct the control system to discharge, charge, or rest at least one of the power cells to balance statistical characteristics of the power cells; the power supply charging system may include a communication module; a communication module may be part of or in communication with the control system; a communication module may be wired or wireless; communication may be wireless; a communication module may be a Wi-Fi transmitter, a Bluetooth transmitter, an infrared transmitter, a satellite transmitter, a radio frequency transmitter, an IEEE 802.15.4 compliant transmitter, the like, or any combination thereof; a motor driven generator may be adapted to operably switch between providing power to the first power cell during the charging mode of the first power cell and alternatingly providing power to the second power cell during the charging mode of the second power cell; an electric motor may be connected to the motor driven generator to transmit the power received by the electric motor to the motor driven generator; a third power cell may be in electrical communication with the electric motor; a third power cell may be adapted to operably supply power to the motor driven generator via the electric motor; a torque converter may be located between the electric motor and the motor driven generator; a torque converter may be a torque multiplier; a torque converter may be a constant or variable torque converter; the power supply charging system may include one or more temperature sensors in electrical communication, direct contact, or both with one or more power cells, motors, or both; the control system may be adapted to power off the system or place a power cell at rest when one or more temperatures above a suitable operating temperature are sensed; a temperature control covering may be located over the system, one or more power cells, or a combination thereof; one or more extinguishing features may be affixed to the power supply charging system or may be in proximity to the power supply charging system; the one or more extinguishing features may be affixed to an internal wall of a housing; one or more extinguishing features may include one or more extinguishing agents which may be configured to be released upon detection of one or more volatile conditions; the power supply charging system may include one or more charge reducers; one or more charge reducers may be configured to reduce a charge of one or more power cells to prevent one or more volatile conditions from occurring; one or more charge reducers may include one or more capacitors; the power supply charging system may include one or more noise reduction features; one or more noise reduction features may include one or more dampening features, passive noise cancellation, active noise cancellation, or any combination thereof; the power supply charging system may include one or more mobility features attached thereto; the one or more mobility features may include one or more wheels, handles, straps, power cables, the like, or a combination thereof; the first power cell may be adapted to be at least partially charged when in a charging mode, to supply power when in a discharging mode, and/or to maintain a generally constant supply of power while in a resting mode; the second power cell may be adapted to be at least partially charged when in a charging mode, to supply power when in a discharging mode, and/or to maintain a generally constant supply of power while in a resting mode; when the first power cell is in a charging mode the second power cell may be either in a discharging mode or a resting mode; when the second power cell is in the charging mode the first power cell may be either in the discharging mode or the resting mode; the third power cell may be electrical communication with the first power cell, the second power cell, and the electric motor; the third power cell may be adapted to operably supply power to the motor driven generator via the electric motor and the third power cell may receive alternating power from the first power cell when in the discharging mode and the second power cell when in the discharging mode; the control system may include: a power cell managing module adapted to alternate the motor driven generator to operably switch between providing power to the first power cell during the charging mode of the first power cell and providing power to the second power cell during the charging mode of the second power cell based on an occurrence of a pre-determined condition; the control system may include: a charge control module adapted to detect the occurrence of a pre-determined power supply condition from at least one of the first power cell or the second power cell while in the charging mode or the resting mode and upon the occurrence of the pre-determined power supply condition activates the motor driven generator to provide power to the first power cell while in the charging or resting mode or the second power cell while in the charging or resting mode; the control system may include a power balancing module configured to sense one or more operating conditions of the power cells, evaluates the one or more operating conditions of the power cells, and instructs the control system to discharge, charge, or rest at least one of the power cells to balance statistical characteristics of the power cells; the power balancing module, charge control module, power cell managing module, or a combination thereof may be combined as part of a single board, processor, controller, microprocessor, microcontroller, or a combination thereof; and the alternative energy systems may include one or more solar panels, turbines, hydropower systems, the like, or a combination thereof.
The power supply charging system may be integrated into a vehicle permanently, semi-permanently, or removably attached. The power supply charging system may be particularly useful in power one or more auxiliary components of the vehicle, providing power to components located remote from the vehicle, or both. One or more power outlets of the vehicle may be in electrical communication with the power supply charging system. The power supply charging system may be located in an interior, exterior, or both of the vehicle. The power supply charging system may include a power balancing module, communications module, a temperature control system, noise reduction features, mobility features, or a combination thereof.
The present disclosure teaches a power supply charging system which may be permanently, semi-permanently, or removably affixed to a vehicle. The power supply charging system may be in electrical communication with one or more electrical wires (e.g., wiring harness) of a vehicle to power one or more auxiliary components of the vehicle. The power supply charging system may be temporarily attached to a vehicle, to allow for transportation from one location to another location, and then powering another power receiving system. The power supply charging system may include a plurality of power cells. The power cells may include one or more batteries which may be able to operate without resulting fumes, noise, or increased temperatures. The power supply charging system may include temperature control features, such as coverings, fans, thermometers, extinguishing features, the like, or a combinational thereof to maintain or control a temperature of the power supply charging system. The one or more temperature control features may allow for the power supply charging system to operate at about surrounding ambient temperatures. The power supply charging system may include one or more noise reduction features which may be beneficial in reducing or even cancelling any noise generated during operation of the power supply system. The power supply charging system may include one or more electrical inputs. The one or more electrical inputs may allow for one or more power cells to be charged via the electrical power grid, an alternative energy system, or both. The power supply charging system may be initially charged by the electrical power grid such that the power cells store electrical energy before being relocated away from an electrical power grid. The power supply charging system may be charged or recharged via alternative energy systems (e.g., solar, wind, hydro) when the system is located remote from an electrical power grid, thus the system may be able to function completely independent from the traditional electrical power grid.
The explanations and illustrations presented herein are intended to acquaint others skilled in the art with the present teachings, its principles, and its practical application. The specific embodiments of the present teachings as set forth are not intended as being exhaustive or limiting of the present teachings. The scope of the present teachings should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. The disclosures of all articles and references, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated by reference for all purposes. Other combinations are also possible as will be gleaned from the following claims, which are also hereby incorporated by reference into this written description.
Integration of Power Supply Charging System into Power Receiving System
The power supply charging system may be permanently fixed, semi-permanently fixed, temporarily connected, or a combination thereof to a power receiving system. A power receiving system may include any type of facility, building, vehicle, equipment, electronic utilities, electronic-based devices which utilize alternating current (AC) and/or direct current (DC), the like, or any combination thereof. Exemplary facilities or buildings may include single family homes, multi-family units, offices, building structures, hospitals, any other building structure, the like, or any combination thereof. Exemplary vehicles may include land-based vehicles, watercraft, aircraft, mobile dwelling (e.g., recreational vehicles (RV), camping trailers, tiny homes), the like, or any combination thereof. Exemplary equipment may include manufacturing equipment, farm equipment, construction equipment, medical equipment, laboratory equipment, office equipment, the like, or any combination thereof.
The power supply charging system may be integrated into a land-based vehicle. The power supply charging system may power one or more components of the land-based vehicle or may provide power to one or more external components not integrated into the land-based vehicle. A land-based vehicle may include a gasoline and/or electric powered vehicle. A land-based vehicle may include a light duty vehicle (e.g., passenger car), light duty truck, heavy duty vehicle (e.g., Class 2 to Class 8b), school bus, transit and urban bus, motorcycle, the like, or any combination thereof. A light duty truck may include a small sport utility vehicle, small pick-up truck, minivan, compact sport utility vehicle, half-ton pick-up truck, full-size van, intermediate sport utility vehicle, three-quarter ton pickup or any combination thereof. A heavy-duty vehicle may include a utility vehicle, dually pickup, heavy duty van, multi-stop vehicles, motorhome, vocational vehicle (e.g., ambulance, flatbed truck, dump truck, concrete truck, garbage truck, etc), step van, emergency vehicle (e.g., fire engine), fuel truck, tractor trailer trucks with a single axle, tractor trailer trucks with a double axle, the like, or any combination thereof. A land-based vehicle may even include mobile medical vehicles, such as those that support satellite health clinics.
The power supply charging system may be partially or completely located and/or integrated into any portion of a vehicle. At least a portion of or the entire power supply charging system may be located within an interior of the vehicle, exterior of the vehicle, or both. An interior of the vehicle may include a passenger compartment, living space, cargo compartment, storage compartment, between one or more walls, or a combination thereof. Within a passenger compartment, the power supply charging system may be located under a seat, under another furnishing, within one or more interior trim pieces (e.g., door panels, infotainment centers, rear shelf, etc.), or a combination thereof. Within a living space may include any livable area of a vehicle. A livable area may include an interior of a mobile dwelling. A cargo area may include a traditional cargo storage area of a vehicle, a usable area at the rear of the vehicle above a chassis, or both. For example, a cargo area may include an interior of a box of an ambulance. An exterior of the vehicle may include an underbody (e.g., part of or adjacent to chassis), engine compartment, roof, exterior walls, a box, a detachable storage unit, the like, or a combination thereof. A detachable storage unit may include a boxcar, storage pod, cargo box, transport box, the like, or a combination thereof. The exterior of the vehicle may include one or more storage compartments located within one or more exterior walls. At least a portion of or the entire power supply charging system be housed in the vehicle in one location as an assembly, may be divided in modular components distributed in separate areas of the vehicle, or both. One or more power cells, generators, inverters, converters, and the like may be located in an exterior of a vehicle while one or more portions of a control system may be located in an interior of a vehicle. For example, one or more power cells may be located in the chassis or powertrain system of the vehicle while the control system may be located within an infotainment panel of a vehicle. As another example, one or more power cells may be located in a cargo area of the vehicle while the control system may be located within an infotainment panel of a vehicle.
The power supply charging system may be integrated into the vehicle. By being integrated into the vehicle, the power supply charging system may be in electrical communication with one or more components of the vehicle, may include one or more features built-in to the vehicle, or both. The power supply charging system may be in electrical communication with one or more components of a vehicle. The power supply charging system may be integrated into an electrical system of a vehicle. For example, the power supply charging system may be electrically connected to one or more wiring harnesses used to power one or more auxiliary functions of the vehicle. One or more auxiliary functions may be any function not directly related to driving of a vehicle (e.g., motor, steering, brakes, etc). For example, auxiliary functions may include radio, communications devices, one or more components of an HVAC system, medical equipment, construction tooling, the like, or any combination thereof. The power supply charging system may be electrically connected to an electric motor, one or more batteries of an electric motor, or both of a vehicle. The power supply charging system may provide a charge to one or more batteries of an electric motor. For example, a user may charge the electric motor's dedicated batteries over a four to ten hour period via the power supply charging system. The power supply charging system may provide a back-up charging station for an electric vehicle. The power supply charging system may be physically connected (e.g., built-in) to the vehicle. One or more power outlets of the power supply charging system may be located in one or more interior and/or exterior walls and/or panels of a vehicle. For example, a power supply charging system may be located within a storage compartment with one or more walls of the storage compartment having one or more exposed outlets for the power supply charging system located therein. The power supply charging system may function to collect lost energy from one or more components of a vehicle. The power supply charging system may collect lost energy from a vehicle in the form of heat, light, motion, or any combination thereof which are then converted into electricity. The power supply charging system may convert the lost energy from the vehicle into electricity. The lost energy may be transferred as power to one or more power cells of the power supply. For example, the power supply charging system may be in communication with a brake system of a vehicle and reclaim some of the lost energy during braking of the vehicle. The powers supply charging system may store alternative energy to which a vehicle is exposed. The power supply charging system may store solar energy, wind energy, water energy, or a combination thereof to which a vehicle is exposed. For example, a vehicle may include one or more solar panels on the exterior in electrical communication with the power supply charging system. As another example, a vehicle may include one or more turbines on the exterior in electrical communication with the power supply charging system. Integration of the alternative energy collection devices are discussed hereinafter with respect to the power supply charging system.
The power supply charging system may be adapted such that it generates a surplus of power. The surplus of power may be defined as an excess of what a power receiving system may utilize. The surplus of power may be used to charge one or more power cells.
The power supply charging system may be adaptable for cooperating with one or more other power systems. By cooperating with one or more other power systems, the power supply charging system may be able to supply power to larger facilities, have a back-up charging system, or both. The power supply charging system may be adapted for connecting to one or more additional power supply charging systems. The power supply charging system may connect to one or more additional power supply charging systems through the electrical system of a facility. The power supply charging system may cooperate with one or more additional power supply charging systems through the electrical system of a facility. For example, the power supply charging systems may be connected through smart wiring integrated in the home. Smart wiring may allow the systems to communicate with one another, be controlled by a master control system, or both. The power supply charging system may cooperate with one or more additional power supply charging systems by each system being dedicated to a segment of the facility. For example, one power supply may be dedicated to a specific floor or section of rooms of a facility, another power supply may be dedicated to another floor or section of rooms, and so forth.
Power Supply Charging System
The present disclosure relates to a power supply charging system. The power supply charging system may function to provide an off-grid power supply to a facility, equipment, or other devices which require alternating current and/or direct current to operate. The power supply charging system may function to provide a continuous, semi-continuous, or discontinuous power supply. Continuous may be over a determined amount of time, energy usage, or both. Continuous may be while one or more power cells include a supply of energy stored therein. The power supply charging system may function to provide a continuous direct current and/or alternating current to a power receiving system. The power supply charging system may be a self-sufficient power supply. Self-sufficient may be for over a determined amount of time, energy usage, or both. By being self-sufficient, the power supply charging system may be able to generate a power supply and provide a power supply. The power supply charging system includes a plurality of power cells, a control system, and a generator. The power supply charging system may include a number of additional components to cooperate with the power cells, control system, and/or generator. The components may include one or more power converters, one or more power inverters, one or more relays, one or more busbars, one or more power outputs, one or more sensing devices, one or more interface modules, one or more meters, one or more thermal controls, one or more user interfaces, one or more switches, one or more housing units, the like, or any combination thereof.
The present disclosure provides for a power supply charging system having two or more open systems. The two or more open systems may function to simulate a closed loop system without encountering the limitations of a closed loop system. The two or more open systems may function to provide a power supply to a power receiving system, charge a power cell, discharge a power cell, or any combination thereof. The two or more open systems may include at least a first open system and a second open system.
The two or more open systems may include a first open system. The first open system may function to provide a power supply to a power receiving system. The first open system may include a discharging power cell in electrical communication to the power receiving system. The first open system may include the discharging power cell sending a power supply to one or more inverters, one or more converters, or both. The one or more inverters, one or more converters, or both may then transmit the power supply to the power receiving system. For example, a power cell in a discharging mode (i.e., a first power cell, active battery bank) may send a power supply (i.e., direct current) to a converter and/or an inverter. The converter and/or inverter may then change the current (i.e., different direct current, alternating current) and send the power supply to the power receiving system.
The two or more open systems may include a second open system. The second open system may function to provide a power supply to a power cell in a charging mode to charge the power cell. The second open system may include a discharging power cell in electrical communication with another power cell. The second open system may include a power cell in continuous communication with a motor, generator, or both. The second power cell may include a motor and/or generator in communication with a power cell in a charging mode. For example, a power cell in a discharging mode (i.e., a first power cell, active battery bank) may send a power supply (i.e., direct current) to a dedicated power cell (i.e., third power cell). The dedicated power cell may send the power supply to a motor and/or generator. The motor and/or generator may then transmit the power supply to a power cell in a charging mode (i.e., a second power cell, inactive battery bank).
The present disclosure relates to a power supply charging system having first and second alternating power cells, a motor driven generator adapted to operably switch between providing power between the first and second alternating power cells, a third power cell which supplies power to the motor driven generator, and a control system having a power cell managing module and a charge control module. The power cell module is adapted to alternate the motor driven generator to operably switch between providing power to the first and second alternating power cells. The charge control module is adapted to detect the occurrence of a pre-determined power supply condition to activate the motor driven generator to provide power to the first or second alternating power cells. The power supply charging system may find particular use in generating a direct current, converting the direct current to an alternating current, and providing a continuous alternating current to a home or facility.
The power supply charging system includes a plurality of power cells. The plurality of power cells may both hold a charge and release a charge. The plurality of power cells may work together in an alternating fashion. By working together in an alternating fashion, a least one power cell may be charged while another power cell is discharged. Discharging a power cell may provide a power supply to a power receiving system, another power cell, or both. The power cells may function to receive power, supply power, maintain a generally constant supply of power, store a supply of power, or any combination thereof. A plurality of power cells may function to supply power to a power inverter, power converter, a separate power cell, a power outlet, or any combination thereof. A plurality of power cells may function to alternatingly supply power and receive power. A separate power cell may function to supply power to a motor, generator, or both. A separate power cell may function to alternatingly receive power from a plurality of power cells. The plurality of power cells may include a first power cell, a second power cell, a third power cell, or even more power cells. The one or more power cells may electrical energy stored therein. The one or more power cells may at least be partially or completely full of electrical energy when integrated into the power supply charging system. One or more of the power cells may be in electrical communication with a control system, a power cell managing module, a charge control module, one or more relays, one or more sensing devices, one or more inverters, one or converters, one or more generators, one or more motors, any other component of the power supply charging system, or any combination thereof. A plurality of power cells (e.g., a first and second power cell) may be in alternating electrical communication a generator. One or more power cells (i.e., power cell in discharging mode) may be in electrical communication with and provide a power supply to one or more other power cells (i.e., third power cell, dedicated power cell). One or more power cells which receive a power supply (i.e., charged) from a generator may provide a power supply to (i.e., charge) one or more power cells (i.e., dedicated power cell) which provide a power supply to the generator.
The plurality of power cells may include any type of power cell capable of retaining a power supply, discharging a power supply, and receiving a power supply. The plurality of power cells may be electrical, electrochemical, or both. The plurality of power cells may also include or be in communication with forms of alternative energy. Alternative energy may include solar power, wind power, hydro power, geothermal, the like, or any combination thereof. The plurality of power cells may include one or more energy storage units. Energy storage units may include one or more capacitors, one or more superconducting magnetic storage systems, one or more batteries, one or more supercapacitors, the like, or any combination thereof. Exemplary suitable batteries may include an alkaline battery, an aluminum battery, a carbon battery, a lithium battery, a lithium ion battery, a mercury battery, a zinc battery, a lead acid battery, a nickel battery, the like, or any combination thereof.
A plurality of the power cells may be capable of producing and generating surplus energy by cooperating with one or more other components of the system. The surplus energy may function to charge one or more other power cells. Each individual power cell which provides power to a power receiving system (i.e., first and second power cell) may have an energy capacity sufficient to generate both a power supply for the power receiving system and to charge another power cell. Energy capacity may be greater than the average power use and peak use of the power receiving system. The energy capacity may be about equal to, at least about 2 times greater than, at least about 2.5 times greater than, at least about 3 times greater than, or even at least about 4 times greater than the average power use and/or peak use of the power receiving system. The energy capacity of a power cell is preferably not be less than the average power use of one or more devices or components of a power receiving system. For example, the energy capacity of the power cell may be about 3 times greater than the average power used by the facility. For example, the energy capacity of the power cell may be about equal to the average power use by a plurality of mobile devices. For further example, a power receiving system may include a plurality of mobile devices. The mobile devices may include one or more laptops, one or more mobile phones, one or more tablets, and one or more printers. The one or more laptops may have an average draw of about 15-75 Watts; the one or more mobile phones and/or one or more tablets may have an average draw of about 3-10 Watts; and/or the one or more printers may have an average draw of about 3 to 50 Watts. The energy-capacity of a power cell suitable for charging the plurality of mobile devices while also being able to send current to another power cell, motor, and/or generator may be about 60-80 Watts. For example, a suitable power cell for a plurality of mobile devices may be a typical 12V, 76.8 watt hours battery and the battery may be a lithium ion battery.
The plurality of power cells may be designed with a usage ratio to provide a surplus of energy. The usage ratio may be a ratio of a power supply transmitted by a discharging power cell. The usage ratio may be a ratio of a power supply provided to a power receiving system as opposed to a power cell dedicated to charging a generator. The ratio may be about 70% or greater of the power supply is provided to the power receiving system, about 80% or greater of the power supply is provided to the power receiving system, or even about 90% or greater of the power supply is provided to the power receiving system. The ratio may be about 98% or less of the power supply is provided to the power receiving system, about 97% or less of the power supply is provided to the power receiving system, or even about 95% or less of the power supply is provided to the power receiving system. The energy capacity, the ratio of power supply provided to the power receiving system as opposed to the dedicated power cell, or both ensure the dedicated power cell has a sufficient power supply to transmit to the generator.
The plurality of power cells may include power cells having high charge rates. High charge rates may function to allow the plurality of power cells to be charged at a faster rate than a power receiving system depletes the plurality of power cells. By charging at a faster rate than depletion, the plurality of power cells are able to provide a continuous current to a power receiving system. High charge rates may be from about 0.4 C or greater, about 0.5 C or greater, or even about 0.6 C or greater. High charge rates may be from about 1.0 C or less, 0.9 C or less, or even about 0.8 C or less. Exemplary power cells having high charge rates may include lithium ion batteries, carbon batteries, or both. The plurality of power cells may include power cells adapted for being charged with a current of about 5 A or greater, about 10 A or greater, about 20 A or greater, about 25 A or greater, or even about 30 A or greater. The plurality of power cells may include power cells adapted for being charged with a current of about 60 A or less, about 55 A or less, or even about 50 A or less.
The plurality of power cells may have high life cycles to allow the power cells to be used in the power supply charging system for an extended period of time. The plurality of power cells may have a cycle durability of about 350 cycles or greater, about 500 cycles or greater, about 1,000 cycles or greater. The plurality of power cells may have a cycle durability of about 5,000 cycles or less, about 4,000 cycles or less, or even about 3,500 cycles or less. As battery, and another energy storage technology, continues to develop and improve, the life cycles may become even greater allowing for an even longer use of the power cell in the power supply charging system.
The plurality of power cells may be arranged in at least three separate power cells (i.e., first power cell, second power cell, third power cell). The individual power cells may be connected in series, parallel, or a combination of both to other individual power cells. Individual power cells may be connected in parallel to other individual power cells. Connecting the individual power cells in parallel to one another may enable a generator to operably switch charging among individual power cells, enable alternating discharging the individual power cells, or both. The individual energy storage units which comprise a single power cell may be connected in series, parallel, or a combination of both to other energy storage units of the same power cell.
The plurality of power cells may be in electrical communication with one or more components of the power supply charging system. By being in electrical communication, the one or more of the power cells may be able to receive and/or transmit electrical current to and/or from one or more of the components. One or more components may be any component of the power supply charging system. Electrical communication may mean directly electrically connected to a component or indirectly electrically connected to a component. One or more power cells may be directly electrically connected to one or more of a charge control module, power cell managing module, diode, relay, busbar, motor speed controller, power switch, user interface, charging status display, motor, generator, or any combination thereof.
The plurality of power cells may include one or more electrical current modes. The one or more electrical current modes may function to allow the one or more power cells to supply power (i.e., discharge), be supplied with power (i.e., charge), retain power, and/or prevent any transmission of power. The one or more electrical current modes may be any mode which allow a plurality of power cells to supply power, be supplied with power, retain power, and/or prevent transmission of power. The one or more electrical current modes may include a charging mode, discharging mode, resting mode, or any combination thereof. A plurality of power cells be in the same mode simultaneously or may not be in the same mode simultaneously. A first power cell (i.e., first bank of batteries) and a second power cell (i.e., second bank of batteries) may not simultaneously be in a charging mode, discharging mode, or resting mode. A first power cell (i.e., first bank of batteries) and a second power cell (i.e., second bank of batteries) may simultaneously be in a charging mode, discharging mode, or resting mode. The plurality of power cells may alternate electrical current modes. Alternating electrical current modes may include one power cells in a charging mode switching to a discharging mode when another power cell switches from a discharging mode to a charging mode. A control system may determine the electrical current mode, may change the electrical current mode, may communicate the electrical current mode of one or more of the power cells to one or more components of the power supply charging system, or any combination thereof.
One or more power cells have a charging mode. The charging mode may function to enable one or more power cells to receive a power supply (i.e. be charged), a generator to supply power to a power cell, or both. One or more of the power cells may be adapted to be at least partially charged when in a charging mode. In a charging mode, one or more power cells may receive a power supply from a generator or another power cell. Preferably, the one or more power cells which are adapted to discharge a power supply through a power outlet, an inverter, a converter, or any combination thereof are adapted to receive power from the generator. Preferably, the power cell adapted to charge the motor and/or generator is adapted to receive power from another power cell.
One or more power cells have a discharging mode. The discharging mode may function to enable one or more power cells to transmit a power supply, to restrict or prevent a generator from supplying power to the power cell, or both. One or more of the power cells may be adapted to supply power when in a discharging mode. In a discharging mode, one or more power cells may transmit a power supply to a power outlet, inverter, converter, power receiving system, or any combination thereof. In a discharging mode, one or more power cells may transmit a power supply to a motor, generator, or both. Preferably, the power cells which transmit a power supply to a power outlet, inverter, converter, or any combination thereof are not the same as the power cells which transmit a power supply to a motor or generator.
The one or more power cells may be prevented from reaching a certain depletion level while in the discharging mode. A depletion level limit may function to allow the one or more power cells to have sufficient energy stored to send a power supply to one or more components. A depletion level limit may allow one of the alternating power cells to transmit a power supply to the dedicated battery cell. A depletion level limit may allow a power cell to have energy remain such that when it changes from a resting or charging mode to a discharging mode, there is sufficient energy in the power cell to send a power supply. For example, when the power supply charging system is activated (e.g., powered on), a power cell which is then activated into the discharging mode has sufficient energy stored. Sufficient energy stored may include sufficient energy to send a power supply to the dedicated power cell to then send to the generator. Sufficient energy stored may include sending a power supply to a power receiving system. A depletion level limit may be sensed by one or more sensing devices. For example, a timer controller may determine an amount of time a power cell has been discharging or a sensing device in communication with one or more modules may determine an amount of energy remaining within a power cell.
One or more power cells have a resting mode. The resting mode may function to enable one or more cells to be free from receiving or transmitting a power supply, to retain a power supply, or both. One or more power cells may be adapted to maintain a generally constant power supply while in the resting mode. In the resting mode, one or more power cells may not supply power to any components of the power supply charging system. In the resting mode, one or more power cells may not supply power to a power outlet, inverter, converter, power receiving system, or any combination thereof. In the resting mode, one or more power cells may not receive a power supply. In the resting mode, the one or more power cells may not receive a power supply from the generator. In the resting mode, the one or more power cells may be free from being charged or from discharging.
The power supply charging system may include a generator. The generator may function to convert mechanical energy to electrical energy, transmit a power supply to charge one or more power cells, charge a plurality of power cells in an alternating fashion, or any combination thereof. The generator may transmit a power supply to one or more power cells. By transmitting power to the one or more power cells, the generator may charge the power cell. The generator may cooperate with the control system to provide a power supply to a specific power cell. The generator may cooperate with the control system to provide a power supply in an alternating fashion. The generator may be receive a power supply from a power cell separate from the power cells to which it transmits a power supply to. The generator may function to cooperate with a motor to convert a frequency, voltage, and/or phase of power, or any combination thereof. The generator may be in electrical communication with one or more components of the power supply charging system. Electrical communication may include a direct or indirect electrical connection to the one or more components. The one or more components may include any component of the power supply charging system. The one or more components may include one or more of the power cells, a motor, a control system, relays, shunts, shaft couplings, busbars, or any combination thereof. The generator may be directly electrically connected to one or more relays, meter shunts, motors, shaft couplings, or any combination thereof. The generator may be mechanically connected to a motor, a shaft coupling, or both. The generator may be adapted to operably switch between providing power between a plurality of power cells. The generator may be adapted to operably switch between providing power to a first power cell, a second power cell, or even more additional power cells. A control system may cooperate with the generator to operably switch which power cell the generator transmits power to. The generator may transmit a power supply to a plurality of power cells to charge the power cells. The generator may be adapted to charge a first power cell, second power cell, or even more additional power cells. The generator may be adapted to charge a power cell only when a power cell in in charging mode. A control system may cooperate with the generator so that the generator charges a power cell when in a charging mode.
The generator may be any generator capable of receiving an electric or mechanical power supply and outputting an electric power supply. The generator may be alternating current generator or direct current generator. The generator may be a shunt, series, or compound wound generator. The generator may be a three-phase generator. The generator may be connected to a motor. An exemplary suitable generator may be a motor driven generator. An exemplary suitable generator may be an alternator, such as a magnet alternator. The generator may generate a 3-phase alternating current. The generator may include a rectifier to convert alternating current to direct current. A suitable generator may include a 12V Direct Current Permanent Magnet Alternator, such as WindZilla sold by GreenergyStar. A 12V Direct Current Permanent Magnet Alternator may be suitable for providing a power supply to a plurality of mobile devices while also charging a plurality of power cells in an alternating fashion.
The generator is powered by a separate power cell (i.e., dedicated power cell) as the one or more power cells to which the generator transmits power. The generator receives power from a power cell which it is not charged directly by the generator. The generator may be powered by a power cell which receives a power supply from a separate power cell while in a discharging mode. The generator may only supply power to a plurality of power cells. The generator may be free of supplying power to any components of power supply charging system separate from the plurality of power cells. The generator may be incapable of supplying power directly to one or more power inverters.
The generator may include, be in communication with, and/or be driven by a motor. The motor may function to receive a power supply from one or more power cells, converting electrical energy to mechanical energy, transmit mechanical energy to a shaft coupling and/or generator, or any combination thereof. The motor may function to transmit a power supply from one or more power cells to the generator. The motor may function to cooperate with the generator to convert a frequency, voltage, and/or phase of power, or any combination thereof. The motor may cooperate with one or more power cells, shaft couplings, generator, or any combination thereof to multiply a power supply received by the motor. The motor may be in electrical communication with one or more components. The one or more components may include any components of the power supply charging system. Electrical communication may be indirect or directly electrically connected to one or more of the components. The motor may be in direct or indirect electrical communication with one or more of a power switch, motor speed controller, relay, shaft coupling, generator, thermal coupler, fan, busbar, power junction, or any combination thereof. The motor may be mechanically connected to one or more components of the power supply charging system. The motor may be connected to a shaft coupling, generator, or both. The motor may be in electrical communication with one or more power cells. One or more power cells may supply power to the motor. The one or more power cells are separate from the one or more power cells which the generator charges (i.e., provides a power supply to). The one or more power cells may include one or more batteries. For instance, a third power cell may supply power to the motor. The motor may be in communication with the generator. The motor may drive the generator. The motor may drive the generator via one or more shaft couplings. The motor may be distinct from the generator or may be integrated with the generator as a single-piece unit. The motor may be an electric motor. The motor combined with the generator may be a dynamotor. The motor may be a single-phase motor. The motor may be a continuous speed direct current motor. A suitable exemplary motor may include a 24V 1.5 Hp 1800 RPM Fan Cool Continuous Duty DC Motor. Another suitable exemplary motor may include a 24V electric motor. The 24V electric motor may have a peak horsepower between about 1 HP and about 4.5 HP. The 24V electric motor may have a rotations per minute between about 4500 and 6900. For example, another suitable exemplary motor may include the E30-150 electric motor manufactured by AmpFlow, which is a division of Powerhouse Engineering Inc.
The motor may include or be connected with a motor speed controller. The motor speed controller may function to control the speed of a motor. The motor speed controller may be any controller which is able to control a speed of a motor. The motor speed controller may be in electrical communication with one or more components of the power supply charging system. Electrical communication may include direct or indirectly electrically connected to the one or more components. The motor speed controller may electrically connected to one or more of a power supply, power switch, current limit control, relay, motor, fan, thermocouple, or any combination thereof. The motor speed controller may start, increase the speed, decrease the speed, and/or stop the motor. The motor speed controller may start and/or increase the speed of the motor upon powering the system on via a power switch, via a signal from one or more sensing devices or controllers, or both. The motor speed controller may stop and/or decrease the speed of the motor upon powering the system off on via a power switch, via a signal from one or more sensing devices or controllers, or both. A motor may be sized suitable for a selected power receiving system. For example, if the system is intended to provide a power supply to a power receiving system comprising a plurality of mobile devices, the motor speed controller may be compact pulse-width modulation speed controller. An exemplary motor may be suitable for a working voltage of about 10-50V of direct current. An exemplary speed controller may include a Mini 10-50V 60 A 3000 W DC Motor Speed Control.
The motor may be connected to a torque converter. A torque converter may function to transmit, increase, decrease, or a combination thereof torque. The torque may be torque transmitted from one or more motors to one or more generators. A torque converter may include a torque multiplier. The torque converter may inversely change a rotation speed to a torque transferred from the motor to the generator. For example, a torque multiplier may decrease a rotational speed of a generator (e.g., output shaft) compared to that of the motor (e.g., input shaft) while increasing (e.g., multiplying) the torque applied onto the generator from the motor. The torque converter may also work in the inverse. For example, a torque multiplier may increase a rotational speed of a generator compared to that of the motor while decreasing the torque applied onto the generator from the motor. A torque converter may be constant, variable, or both. A constant torque converter may always change the torque and rotation inputs at the same ratio. A variable torque converter may change the torque and rotation inputs and differing ratios. An example of a variable torque converter is a constantly variable transmission (CVT). The torque converter may be in communication with the control system. The control system may determine if a torque converter should adjust the torque and rotation input to output ratios.
The motor may be connected to a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may function to gauge a temperature of the motor while the power supply charging system is operating, transmit the temperate to one or more modules or controllers, or both. The temperature sensor may be in electrical communication with one or more components of the system. One or more components may include any components. Electrical communication may include direct or indirect electrical connection. The temperature sensor may be directly electrically connected with one or more of a motor, a fan, a motor speed controller, a busbar, a power junction, or any combination thereof. The temperature sensor may include a thermal protector, thermal coupler, thermometer, or any combination thereof. The temperature sensor may be a bimetal temperature switch thermostat. An exemplary temperature sensor is the KSD9700 bimetal temperature switch thermostat sold by Uxcell.
The power supply charging system may include one or more shaft couplings. The one or more shaft couplings may function to connect a motor with a generator, transfer a torque from a motor to a generator, multiply a torque, or any combination thereof. The shaft coupling may be any shaft coupling capable of provide these functions. The one or more shaft couplings may be connected to one or more other shaft couplings, a motor, a generator, or any combination thereof. Exemplary shaft couplings may include one or more gears, pulleys, the like or any combination thereof. One or more gears may include gears with one or more stages, epicyclical gear systems (ex: planetary gears), the like, or any combination thereof.
The power supply charging system may include a power converter. The power converter may function to convert a voltage of an incoming current to a different voltage for an outgoing current. The power converter may reduce an incoming direct current voltage. The power converter may be in electrical communication with one or more power cells, one or more power outlets, one or more inverters, a control system, one or more busbars, or any combination thereof. The power converter may receive a power supply from one or more of the plurality of power cells. The power converter may receive a power supply from either the first power cell or the second power cell. The power converter may receive a power supply from a power cell when in a discharging mode. The power converter may receive a power supply from a first power cell, a second power cell, or both. The power converter may receive a power supply from a first power cell, a second power cell, or both when in a discharging mode. The power converter may be a direct current to direct current converter, a voltage regulator, a linear regulator, or any combination thereof. The power converter may be any type of converter able to change an incoming voltage.
The power converter may be a voltage converter. The power converter may be a direct current to direct current converter. The power converter may reduce a direct current voltage. The direct current voltage may be received from one or more power cells. The power converter may be used to supply a standard direct current voltage useful (i.e., standard) in facility or equipment. For example, the power converter may supply a 12V direct current. A 12V direct current may be particularly useful for powering high efficiency direct current lighting and home electronics (i.e., portable fans, portable computers, portable communications devices, etc). The power inverter may be adapted to receive a 24V direct current. The 24V direct current may be provided by one or more of the power cells (i.e., first power cell, second power cell). The power converter may be a 24V to 12V power converter, a 12V to 5V power converter, or a combination thereof. The power converter may include a single power converter or a plurality of power converters. A plurality of power converters may be distributed throughout the power supply charging system. The power converter may be in electrical communication with a power inverter. A suitable power converter may include a direct current to direct current converter module which converts 12V to 5V. A 12V to 5V power converter may be suitable for transmitting a power supply to one or more USB power outlets.
The power supply charging system may include a power inverter. The power inverter may function to transform a form of current to a different type of current. The power inverter may transform an incoming direct current into an outgoing alternating current. By providing an outgoing alternating current, the power supply charging system may be compatible with any facility, equipment, or device requiring alternating current. The power inverter may be in electrical communication with one or more components of the power supply charging system. Electrical communication be directly or indirectly electrically connected. The power inverter may be in electrical communication with one or more power cells, one or more power outlets, one or more converters, one or more power outputs, a control system, or any combination thereof. The power inverter may be electrically connected to one or more breakers, one or more busbars, or both. The power inverter may receive a power supply from a power cell when in a discharging mode. The power inverter may receive power supply from a first power cell, a second power cell, or both. The power inverter may receive a power supply from a first power cell, a second power cell, or both when in a discharging mode. The power inverter may be sized to meet the direct current provided by one or more power cells. The power inverter may be suitable for receiving about 12V or greater direct current, about 24V or greater direct current, about 48V or greater direct current, about 500V or greater direct current, or even a greater amount of direct current. The power inverter may include a single power inverter or a plurality of power inverters. The power inverter may be a direct current to alternating current inverter. The power inverter may be suitable for transforming an incoming current to an alternating current. The alternating current may be about 110V or greater, about 220V or greater, or even more. A suitable power inverter may include a 600 W continuous power inverter. An exemplary inverter is a 600 Watt Pure Sine Wave Inverter which converts 12V direct current to 120V alternating current.
The power supply charging system may include one or more power outputs. The power outputs may function to connect the power supply charging system to a power receiving system and allow a power supply of the power supply charging system to be transmitted to the power receiving system. The one or more power outputs may be in electrical communication with one or more power cells, one or more power inverters, one or more power converters, a control system, or any combination thereof. The one or more power outputs may have any size or configuration to transfer a power supply from the power supply charging system to a power receiving system. The one or more power outputs may include an electrical connector, an electrical socket, an electrical box, or any combination thereof. An electrical connector may allow the one or more power outputs to connect the power supply charging system to a building, home, equipment, facility, or the like. Exemplary suitable electrical connectors may include a 110V electrical connector, 220V electrical connector, or both. The one or more power outputs may include a shore power adapter, plug, outlet, the like, or any combination thereof. The one or more power outputs may include one or more USB outlets and/or other mobile device outlets. The one or more power outputs may allow the power supply charging system to connect to a portable application. A portable application may include a land-based vehicles (e.g., campers, recreational vehicle (RV), large trucks, tour buses, the like), watercraft, onboard an aircraft, the like, or any combination thereof. A shore power adapter may be adapted for providing a continuous current. The current may be about 15 A or greater, 30 A or greater, 50 A or greater, or even more. One or more power outputs may transmit an alternating current, a direct current, or both. One or more power outputs may be dedicated to providing an alternating current. One or more power outputs may be dedicated to providing a direct current.
The power supply charging system may include a control system. The control system may manage which power cell is charging and which power cell is discharging. The control system may manage or direct one or more components of the power supply charging system to cooperate together. The control system may manage and direct flow of a power supply through one or more components of the power supply charging system. The control system may function to determine an electrical current mode of one or more power cells, change an electrical current mode of one or more power cells, direct a generator to provide power to a specific power cell, direct an alternative energy source to provide power to a power cell, the like, or any combination thereof. The control system may include any one or more components which may function to determine and/or change an electrical current mode of a power cell, direct a generator to provide or limit a power supply to a power cell, or any combination thereof. The control system may include a power cell managing module, power balancing module, a charge control module, one or more sensing devices, one or more interfaces, one or more relays, one or more busses, or any combination thereof. The power cell managing module, power balancing module, charge control module may be separate, integrated together as one, or any combination thereof. The control system may include one or more boards, processors, controllers, microprocessors, microcontrollers, or a combination thereof. The power cell managing module, power balancing module, charge control module, or both may be or include one or more boards, processors, controllers, microprocessors, microcontrollers, or a combination thereof. The control system may include one or more non-transitory storage mediums. The one or more non-transitory storage mediums may have one or more algorithms, instructions, conditions, rules, or any combination thereof stored therein. The control system may manage or include a power cell managing module, charge control module, or both. The control system may function send and/or receive one or more instructions, conditions, or both within the power supply charging system, to and/or from a power receiving system, a user interface, or a combination thereof. The modules may be programmed to determine one or more pre-determined conditions of one or more power cells, such as a power cell which is discharging and/or charging. Upon the one or more modules receiving feedback one or more power cells has reached one or more pre-determined conditions, the one or more modules may initiate one or more rules to start flow, stop flow, continue flow, or any combination thereof of a power supply to and/or from one or more power cells. Suitable modules for the power cell managing module, the charge control module, or both may include a 12 Volt 10,000 Watt Digital Charge Controller as sold by Mountain Wind Trading Co and/or a 900 W direct current to direct current boost module, such as the KKMoon 900 W Digital Control DC-DC Boost Module sold on Amazon®. Other suitable modules or components may include processors from Intel®, Arduino®, and/or National Instruments®. For example, Intel Atom, Intel Xeon, Arduino Uno, NI-roboRio, may all be suitable for integration of the power supply charging system. One or more portions of the control system may be mounted onto a housing unit of the power supply charging system, on a surface of a power receiving system, or both. The one or more portions of the control system may be fixedly mounted, removably mounted, or both to the power receiving system. A fixedly mounted control system may provide for the power supply charging system to be built-in to the power receiving system. For example, the control system may be integrated with a vehicle's control system into the vehicle. A vehicle's control system may include an engine control unit (ECU), powertrain control module (PCM), infotainment system on chip (SOC), infotainment processor, or any combination thereof. An integrated A removably mounted control system may allow for mobility of the power supply charging system relative to the power receiving system.
The control system may include a power cell managing module. The power cell managing module may function to direct a generator to provide a power supply to a specific power cell. The power cell module may be adapted to alternate the generator to operably switch or alternate providing power to individual power cells. The power cell module may be adapted to alternate the generator to operably switch between providing power to a first power cell to a second power cell. The power cell module may be adapted to alternate the generator to provide a power to a power cell in a charging mode. The power cell module may direct the generator to provide a power supply to a power cell based on an occurrence of a pre-determined condition. The power cell module may include or be connected with one or more relays, one or more interfaces, one or more busses, one or more sensing devices, one or more power cells, or any combination thereof.
The control system may include a power balancing module. The power balancing module may function to evenly discharge two or more power cells during their respective discharge cycles. The power balancing module may have one or more sensors. The one or more sensors may include one or more sensors as described herein. The power balancing module, the one or more sensors, or both may sense a status of one or more operating conditions of the one or more power cells. The one or more operating conditions may include temperature, internal pressure, voltage, current, a resistance, percent discharged, life span or remaining life span, discharge and/or charge cycles, the like, or any combination thereof. Based on the one or more operating conditions, the power balancing module may evaluate the one or more operating conditions against one or more rules and/or filters. Evaluating the one or more operating conditions may include executing one or more balancing algorithms. The one or more rules, filters, and/or balancing algorithms may calculate average, maximum, minimum, mean, or other statistical characteristics of the power cells during rest, charging, or discharging. Based on the one or more calculations, the power balancing module may instruct a control system to maintain or change a mode of one or more power cells. The power balancing module may instruct to discharge, charge, or place into rest one or more of the power cells. The power balancing module may seek to evenly balance one or more statistical characteristics of one or more power cells with one or more other power cells.
The control system may include a charge control module. The charge control module may function to detect an occurrence of a pre-determined power supply condition, activate the generator to supply power to a power cell, or both. The charge control module may be adapted to activate a generator to provide power to a power cell. The charge control module may be adapted to activate a generator to provide power to a power cell in a charging mode or a resting mode. The charge control module may be adapted to activate the generator based on an occurrence of a pre-determined power supply condition. The charge control module may be adapted to detect an occurrence of a pre-determined power supply condition in one or more power cells. The charge control module may include one or more relays, one or more interfaces, one or more busses, one or more sensing devices, or any combination thereof. The charge control module may be in electrical communication with the power cell module, power balancing module, or both. The charge control module may share components with the power cell module, power balancing module, or both. The charge control module may share one or more sensing devices with the power cell module and/or power balancing module or may include one or more sensing devices separate from the power cell module and/or power balancing module.
The power supply charging system may include one or more communication modules. The one or more communication modules may function to communicate one or more modes, statuses, operation conditions, sensed conditions, or a combination thereof of the power supply system. The one or more communication modules may be in communication with a power receiving system, a system into which the power supply charging system is integrated or located, a user interface, or any combination thereof. A user interface may be a user interface of a system into which the power supply charging system. A user interface may be a user interface of a communications device. Exemplary communications devices may include a mobile phone, tablet, computer, or combination thereof. The one or more communication modules may be wired or wireless. A wireless communication module may comprise a Wi-Fi transmitter, a Bluetooth transmitter, an infrared transmitter, a satellite transmitter, a radio frequency transmitter, an IEEE 802.15.4 compliant transmitter, the like, or any combination thereof. A suitable Wi-Fi transmitter may include a WiFi Shield from Arduino®. The communication module may be integrated with or separate from a control system of the power supply system. The communication module may allow for one-way communication or two-way communication. One-way communication may be communication from the power supply charging system. Two-way communication may be communication to and from the power supply charging system, may include controlling one or more operations of a power supply charging system, or both. The power supply charging system may include a mobile application. The mobile application may be hardware and/or software integrated into a communications device. The mobile application may allow for sensing of one or more communications from one or more communications modules. The mobile application may provide one or more notifications to a user based on the one or more sensed communications.
The power supply charging system may include one or more temperature control features. The one or more temperature control features may function to ensure one or more power cells do not exceed a suitable operating temperature. One or more temperature control features may be any suitable feature which can sense a temperature, detect a temperature condition, control a temperature, adjust a temperature, or any combination thereof of one or more power cells or other components of a power supply charging system. The one or more temperature control features may be in electrical communication, direct contact, or both with one or more components of the system. The one or more temperature control features may be in communication with a control system. A control system may switch a power cell being actively charged, discharged, or resting based on communication from one or more temperature control features. For example, a temperature of a power cell above a suitable operating temperature may result in the control system discharging the power cell or placing the power cell in a resting mode. A control system may activate one or more notifications based upon one or more temperature conditions. One or more notifications may include one or more visual and/or audible notifications. For example, one or more notifications may include an audible alarm.
The control system may include one or more sensing devices. The one or more sensing devices may function to sense the presence occurrence of one or more pre-determined conditions, one or more pre-determined power supply conditions, or both. The one or more pre-determined conditions, one or more pre-determined power supply conditions, or both may be one or more conditions in a power cell. The one or more pre-determined conditions may be the same or different as the one or more pre-determined power supply conditions. The one or more pre-determined conditions, one or more pre-determined power supply conditions, or both may include a duration of time, a temperature, a voltage, a current, a draw, a percent depleted, a percent full, a time to depletion, a draw, the like, or any combination thereof.
One or more sensing devices may include a timer controller. A timer controller may function to determine a duration of time a power cell has been discharging or charging, relay a duration of time to one or more modules of a control system, prevent and/or allow a power supply to one or more power cells upon a pre-determined condition and/or upon a pre-determined supply condition, or any combination thereof. A timer controller may be programmed with a pre-determined condition and/or a pre-determined supply condition. The pre-determined condition and/or supply condition may be a suitable time a power cell is able to discharge or be in a discharging mode. A timer controller may be in electrical communication with one or more components of the system. Electrical communication may be direct or indirect electrical connection. One or more components may include one or more busbars, one or more switches, one or more modules, one or more power cells, one or more relays, the like, or any combination thereof. A timer controller may include a programmable relay cycle timer module. For example, a suitable timer controller may be the Programmable 12V Relay Cycle Timer Module under the brand name LeaningTech as sold on Amazon®. The timer controller may be programmed for a pre-set duration depending on the power needs of the power receiving system. For example, if the power receiving system is a plurality of mobile devices, the pre-set duration may be five minute intervals. At five minutes, the timer controller may prevent discharging of one or more power cells and allow charging of one or more power cells.
The power supply charging system may include one or more relays (i.e., relay switches). The one or more relays may function to control a power supply of one or more components of the power supply charging system. The one or more relays may control if a component transmits a power supply (i.e., electrical signal) to another component. The one or more relays may be in electrical communication with one or more sensing devices, busbars, power cells, generator, controllers, modules, the like, or any combination thereof. One or more sensing devices may activate a relay. The one or more relays may include any type of relay suitable for alternating, preventing, and/or allowing a power supply (i.e., electrical signal) to be transmitted from one component to another component of the power supply charging system. The one or more relays may include mechanical relays, electromechanical relays, electric relays, electromagnetic relays, static relays, or any combination thereof. Exemplary suitable relays may include a solid state relay, electromagnetic relay, a latching relay, a reed relay, a polarized relay, the like, or any combination thereof. One or more of the relays may be two-pole relays, four-pole relays, or both. The one or more relays may include a plurality of relays. The plurality of relays may include a first relay, a second relay, a third relay, a fourth relay, a fifth relay, or any combination thereof. The plurality of relays may control a power supply to specific components of the power supply charging system. Exemplary suitable relays suitable for one or more of the plurality of relays include: a 12 volt 440 amp diversion/disconnect charge controller, such as that sold by Missouri Wind and Solar via eBay®; a direct current 12 volt 30 amp multifunction adjustable delay timer relay on/off module such as that sold on eBay®; general purpose relay Part No. 528-784XDXM4L-12D sold by Mouser Electronics; general purpose power relay 8-pin Model No. JQX-12F 2Z sold by Uxcell®.
A first relay may be synonymous with a generator relay. The generator relay may be electrically connected with one or more of a generator, generator head, diode, busbars, or any combination thereof. The generator relay may control power supply from a generator or generator head to one or more components of the system. The one or more components may include one or more of a meter shunt, busbar, relay, plurality of power cells, or any combination thereof.
A second relay may be synonymous with a motor relay. The motor relay may control power supply from a power cell to a motor, a motor speed controller to a motor, or both. The motor relay may interrupt or allow power supply to a motor such that the motor is turned on or off. The motor relay may be electrically connected with one or more of a motor speed controller, current limit control, power switch, power cell, busbar, power cell managing module, charge control module, motor, or any combination thereof.
A third relay may be synonymous with a power cell relay. The power cell relay may control power supply to one or more power cells. The power cell relay may interrupt or allow flow of the power supply to one or more power cells. By allowing flow of power supply to one or more power cells, the power cell relay may allow the power cell to be actively charged. The power cell relay may be electrically connected with one or more busbars, power cells, or both, meter shunts, generator, or any combination thereof. The power cell relay may be a two-pole or four-pole relay. An exemplary suitable power cell relay may be a four-pole miniature relay.
A fourth relay may be synonymous with a main power relay. The main power relay may control transmission of power from one or more power cells to one or more converters and/or outlets. The main power relay may be in communication with one or more sensing devices, such as a timer control. The main power relay may prevent flow of a power supply from one or more power cells upon reaching a pre-determined condition, such as duration of time discharging. The main power relay may be electrically connected with one or more power cells, one or more busbars, one or more power switches, or any combination thereof.
A fifth relay may be referred to as an indicator relay. The indicator relay may control transmission of power from one or more power cells to one or more indicators on a housing of the system. The indicator relay may be in electrical communication with one or more status indicators, one or more busbars, one or more power cells, one or more switches, or any combination thereof.
The power supply charging system may include one or more interface modules. The one or more interface modules may cooperate with one or more relays, one or more sensing devices, or both. The one or more interface modules may function to direct a relay to allow or prevent an electrical signal to one or more components. The one or more interface modules may be electro-mechanical or electrical. The one or more interfaces may be a single relay, a plurality of relays, or a modular module.
The power supply charging system may include one or more busbars. The one or more busbars may function to receive a plurality of incoming electrical connections and provide a reduced number of outgoing electrical connections. The one or more busbars may be in electrical communication with any component which receives is in electrical communication with multiple components. The one or more busbars may be in electrical communication with one or more relays, one or more sensing devices, one or more meters, one or more power cells, one or more thermal controls, any other component of the power supply charging system, or any combination thereof. The one or more busbars may be part of the control system. The busbar may include a strip, bar, tube, or combination thereof. The busbar may be comprised of any electrical conducting material. The busbar may be comprised of a metal. Suitable metals may include copper, brass, aluminum, the like, or any combination thereof. One or more busbars may include one or more trigger busbars, power cell busbars, auxiliary power busbars, main power busbar, sensing busbar, or any combination thereof.
The power supply charging system may include one or more user interfaces. The one or more user interfaces may allow a user to determine a status of the power supply charging system, select an operation of the power supply charging system, or both. The one or more user interfaces may provide a status of one or more components of the power supply charging system. The status may include a percent charged or discharged of one or more power cells; the operating temperatures of different component; a voltage, a current, a resistance in the power supply charging system; a life span or remaining life span of one or more components, system errors, maintenance reminders, the like, or any combination thereof. The one or more user interfaces may allow a user to select an operation of the power supply charging system. The one or more user interfaces may allow a user to power the system on and/or off; manually select a power cell for charging, discharging, or resting; may allow a user to step through a troubleshooting routing; the like, or any combination thereof. The one or more user interfaces may include one or more screens, one or more lights, one or more panels which relay information to a user, the like, or any combination thereof. One or more user interfaces may include one or more one more status light indicators, amp usage meter displays, battery monitor meters displays, the like, or any combination thereof.
The power supply charging system may include one or more meters. The one or more meters may function to measure and display one or more values of a power supply (i.e., electrical current) located in the power supply charging system. The one or more meters may function to measure and display a voltage, current, resistance, any other properties of the power supply charging system, the like, or any combination thereof. The one or more meters may be located between any component of the power supply charging system and another component of the power supply charging system. The one or more meters may be electrically connected to a component being measured either directly or indirectly. One or more meters may be electrically connected to one or more power cells, one or more meter shunts, one or more diodes, one or more relays, one or more busbars, a generator, or any combination thereof. Exemplary suitable meters and meter displays may include the Bayite DC 6.5-100V 0-100A LCD Display which is a current, voltage, and power energy meter; a battery capacity tester, such as the DROK DC8-63V LCD Battery Capacity Tester having a gauge panel with battery status indicator.
The power supply charging system may include one or more charge reducers. A charge reducer may function to reduce a charge of one or more power cells to prevent one or more volatile conditions. A charge reducer may be any suitable device for receiving a charge from one or more power cells. For example, a charge reducer may be a capacitor. A charge reducer may be in electrical communication with one or more power cells. One charge reducer may be in electrical communication with a plurality of power cells or an individual power cell. A charge reducer may be dedicated to one power cell (e.g., one charge reducer in electrical communication with one power cell). A charge reducer may receive a charge from one or more power cells when the power supply charging system is powered on, off, or both. A charge reducer may have a capacity equal to about 1% or greater, about 2% or greater, or even 5% or greater than the capacity of a power cell. A charge reducer may have a capacity of about 25% or less, about 20% or less, about 15% or less, or even about 10% or less than a power cell. The charge reducer may receive about 1% or greater, 2% or greater, or even 5% or greater of a charge of a power cell. The charge reducer may receive about 20% or less, about 15% or less, or even about 10% or less of a charge of a power cell. By removing a portion of a charge of one or more power cells when a power supply charging system is powered off, pressure build-up may be reduced in one or more power cells. By reducing pressure build-up, bulging, volatile conditions, may be prevented; a life of a power cell may be extended; or a combination thereof.
The power supply charging system may include one or more thermal controls. The one or more thermal controls may function to control a temperature of one or more components of the power supply charging system. The one or more thermal controls may function to maintain one or more components cool, maintaining one or more components at an acceptable operating temperature, prevent overheating, or any combination thereof. The one or more thermal controls may be any device suitable for maintaining one or more components at an operating temperature, prevent overheating, or both. The one or more thermal controls may include one or more fans, one or more thermometers, temperature sensors, temperature control coverings, extinguishing features, the like, or any combination thereof.
The power supply charging system may include one or more temperature sensors. The temperature sensor may function to gauge a temperature of one or more components, ambient surroundings, or both while the power supply charging system is operating, resting, or both. The temperature sensor may be located in proximity to, adjacent to, or directly on one or more components. One or more components may include one or more power cells, a motor, a generator, an inverter, a convertor, the like, or any combination thereof. One or more temperature sensors may detect and/or measure a temperature of one or more specific components, ambient temperature within a housing unit, ambient temperature outside of one or more components and/or a housing unit, or any combination thereof. One or more temperature sensors may include a thermal protector, thermal coupler, thermometer, or any combination thereof. A temperature sensor may be a bimetal temperature switch thermostat. An exemplary temperature sensor is the KSD9700 bimetal temperature switch thermostat sold by Uxcell. The one or more temperature sensors may be in communication with at least a portion of a control system. The one or more temperature sensors may be in electrical communication with the control system. The one or more temperature sensors may be in communication with one or more temperature control coverings or components thereof. The one or more temperature sensors may be in electrical communication with one or more temperature control coverings or components thereof through a control system.
The power supply charging system may include one or more temperature control coverings. A temperature control covering may control, maintain, or even change a temperature of one or more components of the power supply charging system located therein. A temperature control covering may be part of a housing unit, enclose the housing unit, or be located within the housing unit. A temperature control covering may include a housing unit having a fan, vent, heat exchanger, the like, or any combination thereof. A temperature control covering may include any material suitable for controlling a temperature of the power supply charging system. A material may include a porous or non-porous material. A material of the covering may include a suitable fire-retardant material useful in building construction, textile fabrics, or both. Fire retardant materials useful in building construction may include: mineral wool, gypsum, cement, calcium silicate, sodium silicate, potassium silicate, treated lumber, fire-retardant treated wood, brick, concrete, intumescent paint, glass, magnesium oxide, the like, or any combination thereof. Fire retardant materials useful in textile may include polybenzimidazole (PBI) fiber, aramids, fire retardant cotton, coated nylon, carbon foam, Polyhydroquinone—dimidazopyridin, melamine, modacrylic, wool, leather, glass, the like, or any combination thereof. For example, a covering may include a fiberglass woven fabric. A temperature control covering may enclose individual components of, modular components of, or even substantially the entirety of the power supply charging system. For example, a covering could be located about each set of power cells. For further example, a covering could be located about a housing unit.
The power supply charging system may include one or more extinguishing features. The extinguishing feature may be any suitable feature for being released to extinguish any volatile conditions (e.g., fumes, flames, etc) of one or more components of the power supply charging system. The one or more extinguishing features may be mounted or located in proximity to one or more components of the power supply charging system. The one or more extinguishing features may be mounted within an interior of a housing unit; in proximity (e.g., adjacent to) one or more power cells, generators, motors, or the like. One or more extinguishing features may include a single or a plurality of extinguishing features. One or more extinguishing features may be shared among multiple components or dedicated to individual components of the power supply charging system. The one or more extinguishing features may include one or more extinguishing agents. One or more extinguishing agents may include a dry chemical, foam, water, halon, the like, or any combination thereof. The one or more extinguishing agents may be housed within a housing unit; adjacent and/or in proximity to one or more components, such as the power cell; or both. The one or more extinguishing agents may be released upon detection of one or more volatile conditions, or volatile condition factors. For example, the one or more extinguishing agents may be released upon detection of impact to prevent a volatile condition from occurring. The one or more extinguishing features may include an extinguishing housing. The extinguishing housing may allow an extinguishing agent to be pressurized or non-pressurized. The extinguishing housing may include one or more sensors for detecting a volatile condition, condition factor, or both. One or more sensors may include one or more accelerometers, temperature sensors, ionization detector, photoelectric detector, the like, or any combination thereof. The extinguishing housing may include one or more valves, nozzles, openings, the like, or a combination thereof for releasing an extinguishing agent. The one or more extinguishing features may be in electrical communication with a control system, one or more temperature control features, or both.
The power supply charging system may include one or more switches. One or more switches may function to allow a user to power the system on and/or off, prevent a power supply to a specific component of the system, select a power cell to charge and/or discharge, the like, or any combination thereof. The one or more switches may be integrated anywhere in the system to allow a user to power the system on and/or off, prevent a power supply to a specific component of the system, select a power cell to charge and/or discharge, the like, or any combination thereof. The one or more switches may include a power switch. The power switch may be located in electrical communication with the generator. Powering the generator off may result in the entire power supply charging system being powered off and powering the generator on may result in the entire power supply charging system being powered on.
The power supply charging system may include one or more breakers. The one or more breakers may function to protect the power supply charging system. The one or more or more breakers may interrupt current flow if there is excess current in the system, such as from an overload or short circuit. The one or more breakers may be connected to any component of the system where a current may be interrupted to prevent damage to the system. One or more breakers may be in electrical communication with one or more of a power inverter, busbar, relay, power cells, or any combination thereof. One or more breakers may be directly electrically connected to a power invert, busbar, or both.
The power supply charging system may include one or more one-way rectifiers. A one-way rectifier may prevent flow of electrical current in one direction, allow flow of electrical current in an opposing direction, or both. A one-way rectifier may be electrically connected between any two components of the system where electrical current is desired to be limited in flow-direction. A one-way rectifier may be electrically connected between one or more power cells and one or more components of a charge control system. A one-way rectifier may be electrically connected to both a charge control module and a third power cell. A one-way rectifier may be a diode, such as a blocking diode.
The power supply charging system may include one or more capacitors. The one or more capacitors may be used to store or dissipate electrical energy. The capacitors may function to allow busbars to function properly, such as by eliminating chatter of electrical connections at the busbars. One or more of the busbars may be connected to one or more capacitors. For example, one or more trigger busbars may be connected to one or more capacitors.
The power supply charging system may include one or more shunts. The one or more shunts may provide a low resistance path. The low resistance path may allow electrical current to be directed toward a different electrical path. The one or more shunts may be in electrical communication with any components where an alternate electrical path is desired. One or more shunts may be electrically connected to one or more meters, such as an amp usage meter; one or more busbars; one or more generators; or any combination thereof.
The power supply charging system may include one or more current limit controls. A current limit control may function to limit the amount of current flowing through the system. The one or more current limit controls may be in communication with one or more components of the device which provide current to the system. The one or more current limit controls may be electrically connected to one or more motor speed controllers, power switches, motors, relays, power cells, or any combination thereof.
The power supply charging system may include one or more housing units. The one or more housing units may function to house one or more components of the power supply charging system. The one or more housing units may enclose one or more of the components in a single housing unit or a plurality of housing units. The one or more housing units may include one or more vents. The one or more vents may allow air to flow through the one or more housing units. Air flow through the one or more housing units may maintain one or more components of the power supply charging system at an acceptable operating temperature, prevent overheating, or both. The one or more power cells may be housed together with or separate from other components of the power supply charging system. The control system may be housed together with or separate from other components of the power supply charging system.
The power supply charging system may include one or more noise reduction features. A noise reduction feature may function to dampen any sounds resulting from operating of the power supply charging system. One or more noise reduction features may be located near any component of the power supply charging system which may be audible during operation of the system. The one or more noise reduction features may be located within a housing unit. The one or more noise reduction features may be powered or unpowered. One or more unpowered noise reduction features may include one or more sound deadening materials, valves, or both. One or more valves may include one more valves suitable in a passive noise reducing or cancelling system. Sound deadening materials may include textiles, foams, structural materials, the like, or a combination thereof. One or more powered noise reduction features may include one or more components capable of cancelling or reducing frequencies of the power supply charging system. One or more powered noise reduction features may include active noise cancelling integrated into the power supply charging system, power receiving system, or both. Active noise cancelling may include one or more microphones, speakers, processors, non-transitory storage mediums, the like, or any combination thereof. Active noise cancelling may be in electrical communication with the control system. The active noise cancelling system may be configured to release a sound which reduces or even cancels one or more noises emitted by the power supply charging system. The one or more microphones, speakers, or both may be affoxed as part of a housing unit, power receiving system, or both.
The power supply charging system may include one or more mobility features. The one or more mobility features may allow for a power supply charging system to be easily integrated or located within another system, removed from another system, transported to a remote location, or any combination thereof. The one or more mobility features may be part of or separate from a housing unit. The one or more mobility features may be integrally formed, attached or both, to a housing unite. The one or more mobility feature may allow for one individual, two individuals, or more to manually move (e.g., carry, push) the power supply charging system from one location to another location. The one or more mobility features may allow for removal of a power supply charging system from a power receiving system. The one or more mobility features may include one or more wheels, handles, straps, power cables, the like, or any combination thereof. The housing unit may include one or more wheels directly or indirectly affixed thereon. The one or more wheels may allow for transporting of the power supply charging system by moving the housing unit on a surface. The housing unit may include one or more handles directly or indirectly affixed thereon. The one or more handles may allow for grasping and moving the housing unit. The one or more handles may be located on one or more sides of a housing unit. The one or more handles may be located on a same side or different sides as one or more other handles. For example, two handles may be located on a same side, such as a top, of the housing unit. For example, two handles may be located opposing one another on opposing sides of the housing unit. The one or more handles may be fixed or extendable. The power supply charging system may include one or more straps for being affixed into an overall system when not being used separate from the system. The one or more straps may function to attach the power supply charging system to a power receiving system or other vehicle. The one or more straps may include one or more straps with hook and loop, snap fasteners, buckles, the like, or any combination thereof. The one or more straps may be useful in retaining the power supply charging system static relative to a vehicle, power receiving system, or the like during movement. The power receiving system and/or power supply charging system may include one or more cables to facilitate connecting and disconnecting of the power supply charging system for removal and placement. For example, the power supply charging system may include a cable with connector for electrically connecting into a harness of a vehicle.
Integration with Alternative Energy System
The power supply charging system may be compatible with other alternative energy systems (i.e., wind, solar, water, power). The alternative energy systems may provide a back-up energy supply to charge one or more power cells. The alternative energy system may provide a means for charging one or more power cells while the power supply charging system is completely removed from the electrical grid. The power supply charging system may connect to an alternative energy system so that the systems are in electrical communication with the plurality of power cells that are charged by the generator. The charge control module may be adapted for connecting to the alternative energy system. The charge control module may be adapted for determining when to use the alternative energy system to charge a power cell in a charging mode as opposed to using a generator.
The power supply charging system may include one or more electrical inputs. The one or more electrical inputs may function to allow one or more power cells to be initially charged, one or more power cells to be recharged while removed from the electrical grid, or both. The one or more electrical inputs may include one or more electrical outlets, plugs, the like, or a combination thereof. The one or more electrical inputs may be compatible with alternating current, direct current, or both. The one or more inputs may have any of the power capabilities as described for one or more power outlets described herein. The one or more electrical inputs may be compatible with alternative energy systems (i.e., wind, solar, water, power). The one or more electrical inputs may be compatible with grid-based energy systems. The electrical input may include one or more of Type A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O, or a combination thereof. The electrical input may include one or more single contact electrical connectors. One or more single contact electrical connectors may include one or more MC-4s (e.g., manufacturer multi contact, 4 mm diameter contact pin). The one or more electrical inputs may be in electrical communication with at least a portion of a control system. The one or more electrical inputs may be in electrical communication with a charge control module. The one or more electrical inputs may be in electrical communication with one or more power cells. The one or more electrical inputs may be in electrical communication with each of the power cells. The one or more electrical inputs may receive energy from one or more alternative energy systems.
A control system may route the energy from an electrical input to one or more power cells. For example, the charge control module may determine which power cell is in a charging mode, has capacity to be charged, or both. The one or more electrical inputs may be affixed to the housing unit. By being attached to the housing unit, the inputs may be easily accessible by a user. The charge control module may route power from an alternative energy system to a power cell when the power cell is in charging mode, not at a full charge, resting mode, or a combination thereof. The charge control module may determine to first provide power to a power cell from another power cell or from an alternative energy system.
Operation of Power Supply Charging System
The present disclosure relates to a method of install, operating and using a power supply charging system.
The method may include installing the power supply charging system into a facility. By installing the power supply charging system into a facility, the system may be available for transmitting a power supply to the facility at any given time. The power supply charging system may be used in case of an emergency, such as during a power outage. The power supply charging system may be used continuously as the main power supply for the facility. To install the power supply charging system into the facility, the facility may have to be adapted to be compatible with the system. The facility may need to be first provided with an electrical sub-panel, a transfer switch, or both. The electrical sub-panel, transfer switch, or both may be near and/or in electrical communication with a main electrical panel of the facility.
The method may include connecting the power supply charging system to a power receiving system. Connecting the power supply charging system may include connecting one or more power outputs of the power supply charging system to one or more outlets of one or more power receiving systems. Connecting the power supply charging system may include connecting one or more power connectors of a power receiving system to one or more power outputs of the power supply charging system.
The method may include activating the power supply charging system. Activating the system may allow the system to provide a power supply to a power receiving system. Activating the power supply charging system may include connecting the power supply to a power receiving system. Activating the power supply may include moving a switch from one position (i.e., off) to another position (i.e., on). Before activation, at least one of the power cells may include energy stored therein (e.g., be charged). Before activation, each of the power cells may include energy stored therein (e.g., be charged).
The method may include charging a power cell (i.e., dedicated power cell) which sends power to a motor and/or generator. By charging the power cell, the power cell has sufficient energy to then supply power to the motor and/or generator. The power cell may receive a power supply from a power cell in a discharging mode. The power cell then transmits the power supply to the generator. Charging a power cell may include charging from another power cell within the system, an alternative energy system, the electrical gird, or an combination thereof.
The method may include transmitting a power supply to a generator. By supplying power to the generator, the generator is able to transmit a power supply (i.e., charge) a power cell in a charging mode. The generator may receive a power supply or energy from a motor, shaft coupling, or both. The motor may receive a power supply from a power cell. The power cell may be a dedicated power cell which is not in a charging, discharging, or resting mode and charged by the generator. The motor may receive a power supply as electrical energy. The motor may convert the electrical energy into mechanical energy. The mechanical energy may be torque. The mechanical energy may be transferred from the motor to one or more shaft couplings. The one or more shaft couplings may transfer the torque to a generator head. The one or more shaft couplings may multiply torque or other mechanical energy. The one or more shaft couplings may transfer a greater amount of torque or other mechanical energy than received by the motor. The generator may then charge a power cell. The generator may output a greater amount of power supply than received from the motor. The power supply may be multiplied via the one or more shaft couplings between the motor and generator.
The method may include charging a power cell in a charging mode. By charging the power cell, the power cell may then have a sufficient power supply to be used as a power supply when in a discharging mode. The power cell may receive a power supply from a generator, alternative energy source, or both. The power cell may cooperate with the power cell managing module, the charge control module, or both to receive a power supply. The generator may cooperate with a power cell managing module, a charge control module, or both to transmit a power supply to the power cell. The power cell managing module may direct the generator to a specific power cell for charging. The power cell managing module may direct the generator to a power cell in a charging mode. The power cell managing module may direct the generator based on an occurrence of a pre-determined condition. The pre-determined condition may be sensed by one or more sensing devices. The charge control module may be adapted to detect an occurrence of a pre-determined power supply condition in a power cell. The charge control module may be adapted to detect the occurrence while a power cell is in a charging or resting mode. The charge control module may activate the generator provide power to a power cell in a charging or resting mode.
The method may include discharging a power cell in a discharging mode. By discharging a power cell, the power cell may then send power to a power receiving system, another power cell, or both. The power cell may transmit power to one or more inverters, converters, or both. The power cell may transmit power to a power receiving system. The power cell may transmit power to another power cell. The other power cell may be a dedicated power cell which only charges the generator. The power cell may cooperate with the power cell managing module, the charge control module, or both. The power cell managing module may direct the generator to disconnect from a power cell when in a discharging mode.
The method may include switching a power cell in a charging mode to a discharging mode. Alternating the power cells in a charging mode and discharging mode may allow the system to generate a power supply, provide a continuous power supply, or both. The power cells, the generator, or both may be in communication with a control system. The control system may coordinate which power cell(s) are in a charging mode, discharging mode, and resting mode. A power cell managing module may cooperate with a generator, sensing devices, and one or more of the power cells. The power cell managing module may manage which cell receives power from the generator. A charge control module may cooperate with cooperate with a generator, sensing devices, and one or more of the power cells. The charge control module may manage the power supply output of the generator.
The following descriptions of the Figures are provided to illustrate the teachings herein, but are not intended to limit the scope thereof. Features of any one embodiment may be employed in another. For example, any of the relays or busbars of
Unless otherwise stated, any numerical values recited herein include all values from the lower value to the upper value in increments of one unit provided that there is a separation of at least 2 units between any lower value and any higher value. As an example, if it is stated that the amount of a component, a property, or a value of a process variable such as, for example, temperature, pressure, time and the like is, for example, from 1 to 90, preferably from 20 to 80, more preferably from 30 to 70, it is intended that intermediate range values such as (for example, 15 to 85, 22 to 68, 43 to 51, 30 to 32 etc.) are within the teachings of this specification. Likewise, individual intermediate values are also within the present teachings. For values which are less than one, one unit is considered to be 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01 or 0.1 as appropriate. These are only examples of what is specifically intended and all possible combinations of numerical values between the lowest value and the highest value enumerated are to be considered to be expressly stated in this application in a similar manner.
Unless otherwise stated, all ranges include both endpoints and all numbers between the endpoints. The use of “about” or “approximately” in connection with a range applies to both ends of the range. Thus, “about 20 to 30” is intended to cover “about 20 to about 30”, inclusive of at least the specified endpoints.
The disclosures of all articles and references, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated by reference for all purposes. The term “consisting essentially of” to describe a combination shall include the elements, ingredients, components or steps identified, and such other elements ingredients, components or steps that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the combination. The use of the terms “comprising” or “including” to describe combinations of elements, ingredients, components or steps herein also contemplates embodiments that consist essentially of, or even consist of the elements, ingredients, components or steps. Plural elements, ingredients, components or steps can be provided by a single integrated element, ingredient, component or step. Alternatively, a single integrated element, ingredient, component or step might be divided into separate plural elements, ingredients, components or steps. The disclosure of “a” or “one” to describe an element, ingredient, component or step is not intended to foreclose additional elements, ingredients, components or steps.
It is understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many embodiments as well as many applications besides the examples provided will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading the above description. The scope of the invention should, therefore, be determined not with reference to the above description, but should instead be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. The disclosures of all articles and references, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated by reference for all purposes. The omission in the following claims of any aspect of subject matter that is disclosed herein is not a disclaimer of such subject matter, nor should it be regarded that the inventors did not consider such subject matter to be part of the disclosed inventive subject matter.
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/US2018/066004 | 12/17/2018 | WO | 00 |
| Publishing Document | Publishing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| WO2019/118970 | 6/20/2019 | WO | A |
| Number | Name | Date | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4689531 | Bacon | Aug 1987 | A |
| 5545935 | Stewart | Aug 1996 | A |
| 5784249 | Pouliot | Jul 1998 | A |
| 7782015 | Aaron | Aug 2010 | B1 |
| 8907597 | Kim | Dec 2014 | B2 |
| 9263898 | Ghazarian | Feb 2016 | B1 |
| 9590443 | Ju | Mar 2017 | B2 |
| 20030102752 | Mathisen | Jun 2003 | A1 |
| 20040164705 | Taniguchi | Aug 2004 | A1 |
| 20100100264 | Kato | Apr 2010 | A1 |
| 20100187821 | De Souza | Jul 2010 | A1 |
| 20100270883 | Teoh et al. | Oct 2010 | A1 |
| 20120091731 | Nelson | Apr 2012 | A1 |
| 20120161564 | Lee et al. | Jun 2012 | A1 |
| 20120286572 | Tracy | Nov 2012 | A1 |
| 20120326654 | Ito et al. | Dec 2012 | A1 |
| 20130320929 | Walker et al. | Dec 2013 | A1 |
| 20140265695 | Thompson | Sep 2014 | A1 |
| 20150002073 | Ju | Jan 2015 | A1 |
| 20150048703 | Maldonado | Feb 2015 | A1 |
| 20150069960 | Kuraishi | Mar 2015 | A1 |
| 20150333543 | Hempel | Nov 2015 | A1 |
| 20160226249 | Sakuma | Aug 2016 | A1 |
| 20170210240 | Unno | Jul 2017 | A1 |
| Number | Date | Country |
|---|---|---|
| 2882780 | May 2015 | CA |
| 102844222 | Dec 2012 | CN |
| 105515209 | Sep 2017 | CN |
| 105576677 | Apr 2018 | CN |
| 10201136 | Jun 2003 | DE |
| 2363940 | Sep 2011 | EP |
| 2002035677 | May 2002 | WO |
| 2012093923 | Jul 2012 | WO |
| 2017218660 | Dec 2017 | WO |
| Entry |
|---|
| International Search Report and Written Opinion, Application No. PCT/US2018/066004 dated Apr. 4, 2019. |
| European Office Action dated Dec. 14, 2021, Application No. 18834130.9. |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20210162867 A1 | Jun 2021 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62599264 | Dec 2017 | US |
