Storage unit with power monitoring capability

Abstract

A storage unit, such as a tool chest or cabinet, having a power panel with power terminals adapted to operatively couple to and provide power to a connected device. The storage unit further includes an interrogation module adapted to interrogate or monitor power supply information related to the power supplied to the connected device via the power terminals, a computation module operatively coupled to the interrogation module and adapted to receive power supply data signals from the interrogation module to determine a status of the connected device by comparing the power supply data signals to usage characteristics of the connected device, and a communication module adapted to receive status data signals from the computation module and communicate the status data signals to a remote computing device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a storage unit equipped with a power outlet adapted to indicate the state of a device electrically connected thereto. Background Technology

[0002] Storage units (such as toolboxes and cabinets) may be equipped with power outlets (such as power boards) to supply power to various electrical devices (such as battery chargers). Battery chargers are commonly used in automotive, industrial, and household applications to charge batteries that serve as power sources for tools (such as electric ratchet wrenches, screwdrivers, impact tools, and drills). Battery chargers typically indicate the state of charge of the battery being charged using metering indicators (such as incremental LEDs) on the exterior of the housing. However, when connected to a power outlet on a storage unit, the battery charger may be charging the battery at a distance from the operator, or the charging status may be otherwise difficult to see or access (e.g., when the power outlet is located within the internal housing of the storage unit), making it often difficult to determine the battery's state of charge. Furthermore, battery chargers are often connected to circuitry that cannot detect potential problems with the battery and / or the battery charger. Therefore, damage to the circuitry, battery charger, and / or battery may occur. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention broadly relates to a storage unit having one or more power outlets arranged, for example, on a power board. The storage unit is adapted to determine the state of a device (e.g., a battery) electrically connected to the power outlet via a battery charger by measuring the power, voltage, and / or current of the power supplied to the device via the power outlet. The state of the device includes one or more of the following: the state of charge of the battery connected to the battery charger, the current and / or voltage supplied to the battery, and the number of charging cycles. The determined state can be transmitted via a wireless communication link to a remote computing device (e.g., a telephone, tablet, computer, etc.).

[0004] In one embodiment, the present invention broadly includes a storage unit having a accommodating space. The storage unit includes: a power terminal adapted to be operatively connected to and supply power to a connection device; an interrogation module adapted to be operatively connected to the power terminal and adapted to interrogate or monitor power supply information relating to the power supplied to the connection device via the power terminal; a computing module adapted to be operatively connected to the interrogation module and adapted to receive power supply data signals from the interrogation module and determine the status of the connection device by comparing the power supply data signals with usage characteristics of the connection device based on known or preset data; and a communication module adapted to be operatively connected to the computing module and adapted to receive status data signals from the computing module and transmit the status data signals to a remote computing device.

[0005] In another embodiment, the invention broadly includes a power board having power terminals adapted to be operatively coupled to and supply power to a connected device. The power board includes: an interrogation module operatively coupled to the power terminals and adapted to interrogate or monitor power supply information relating to the power supplied to the connected device via the power terminals; a computing module operatively coupled to the interrogation module and adapted to receive power supply data signals from the interrogation module and determine the status of the connected device by comparing the power supply data signals with usage characteristics of the connected device based on known or preset data; and a communication module operatively coupled to the computing module and adapted to receive status data signals from the computing module and transmit the status data signals to a remote computing device.

[0006] In another embodiment, the invention broadly includes a power board with power terminals adapted to be operatively coupled to and supply power to a connected device. The power board includes: an interrogation module adapted to interrogate or monitor power supply information relating to the power supplied to the connected device via the power terminals, each of the interrogation modules being operatively coupled to one of the power terminals; a computing module operatively coupled to the interrogation modules and adapted to receive power supply data signals from the interrogation modules and determine the status of the connected device by comparing the power supply data signals with usage characteristics of the connected device based on known or preset data; and a communication module operatively coupled to the computing module and adapted to receive status data signals from the computing module and transmit the status data signals to a remote computing device.

[0007] In another embodiment, the invention broadly includes a method performed by a computing device to transmit the status of a connected device operatively coupled to a power terminal disposed in a storage unit and adapted to receive power supplied by the power terminal. The method includes: receiving a power supply data signal containing information relating to the power supplied to the connected device from an interrogation module; determining the status of the connected device by comparing the information from the power supply data signal with usage characteristics of the connected device; and transmitting a status data signal indicating the status of a remote computing device via a communication module. Attached Figure Description

[0008] To facilitate understanding of the subject matter sought, embodiments thereof are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When considered in conjunction with the following description, the subject matter sought, its construction and operation, and its many advantages should be readily understood and appreciated from an examination of its embodiments.

[0009] Figure 1A This is a perspective side view of an exemplary storage cell according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0010] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A A top view of the storage unit.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a block diagram conceptually illustrating an exemplary electronic component of a storage unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a block diagram conceptually illustrating exemplary electronic components of a power board according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a block diagram conceptually illustrating exemplary electronic components of a power board according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for transmitting the state of a charged battery according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a graph illustrating an exemplary characteristic curve of the power consumption of a battery charged by a battery charger according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 7 An example of a system that includes a battery charger and a remote computing device is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0017] While the invention is permissible in many different forms, preferred embodiments of the invention are shown in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail herein. It should be understood that this disclosure should be considered as an example of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the broad aspects of the invention to the illustrated embodiments. As used herein, the term "invention" is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention, but is a term used only for purposes of explanation to discuss exemplary embodiments of the invention.

[0018] This invention broadly includes a storage unit having one or more power outlets arranged, for example, on a power board. The storage unit is capable of outputting data wirelessly and / or via a wired connection. The data includes information about the status of a device electrically connected to and receiving power from the power outlet, or other information relating to that device, such as a battery or multiple batteries operatively connected to a battery charger. The data can be transmitted to remote computing devices (e.g., remote servers) and / or mobile computing devices (e.g., mobile phones). Compared to current solutions, the transmitted data enhances the operator's ability to monitor (including remotely monitor) the status of a battery being charged by a battery charger.

[0019] refer to Figure 1A and Figure 1BStorage unit 100 (e.g., toolbox or cabinet) includes multiple receiving spaces 102 (e.g., drawers), a work surface 104, a trim piece 106, and / or wheels 108 enabling storage unit 100 to be moved to different locations within the workplace. Storage unit 100 may be connected to an external power source (not shown) via a wire or other type of wired connection. The external power source is suitable for supplying electricity (e.g., AC power in the range of approximately 120 V to 240 V). In another embodiment, power is provided via a power source through one or more batteries, one or more fuel cells, solar energy, etc., either external to storage unit 100 or contained within storage unit 100 (e.g., in trim piece 106, receiving spaces 102, and / or special compartments). Power may also be supplied as, for example, a DC voltage between approximately 9 V and 60 V.

[0020] Storage unit 100 includes a power board 110 disposed in receiving space 102, on working surface 104, and / or on other suitable surface of storage unit 100. Power board 110 includes one or more power terminals (also referred to as power sockets) 112 adapted for operatively coupling to a connection device (e.g., a battery charger 114, a rechargeable electrical device 116 having an integrated rechargeable battery(s) (e.g., a battery-powered light, mobile phone, tablet, etc.)) and / or other electrical device) to provide power thereto. Battery charger 114 is adapted for operatively coupling to and charging battery 118 in a known manner. For example, the invention can be combined with a battery charger adapted to output data wirelessly and / or via a wired connection (e.g., a battery charger disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 852,144, which is incorporated herein by reference). The data provided by the battery charger can provide additional information or other battery-related information about the state of the battery(s) or batteries operatively coupled to the battery charger.

[0021] Storage unit 100 is adapted to determine the status of connected devices (e.g., batteries 118 connected to charger 114 and / or one or more batteries of rechargeable electrical device 116), and also includes a power connection point 120, an interrogation module 122, a computing module 124, and a communication module 126. Status may include, for example, charging status, charging cycle, and / or battery health status.

[0022] Power is received at power connection point 120 via an external power source. Power connection point 120 is located within or on storage unit 100 and is adapted to be operatively connected to interrogation module 122 and supply power to power terminal 112.

[0023] The query module 122 is operatively coupled to the power board 110 and the power terminal 112, and is adapted to query or monitor power supply information (e.g., power value, current value, and / or voltage value) of the power supplied via the power terminal 112 to connected devices (e.g., battery charger 114 and / or rechargeable electrical device 116). The query module 122 includes one or more of a voltmeter, ammeter, and / or wattmeter. The query module 122 is adapted to be operatively coupled to the computing module 124 and transmit power supply data signals containing power supply information to the computing module 124.

[0024] The computing module 124 is a controller / processor that includes a central processing unit (CPU) for processing data and computer-readable instructions using known methods. For example, the computing module 124 retrieves instructions from data storage via a bus using memory for runtime temporary storage of instructions and data. The memory may include volatile and / or non-volatile random access memory (RAM). In one embodiment, a communication module 126 is used to remotely receive and / or update instructions stored in memory to communicate with a remote computing device using a wired connection and / or wireless transmission 128. Components may be connected to other components in addition to (or instead of) being connected via a bus. The computing module 124 monitors, analyzes, and processes power supply data signals from the interrogation module 122 to determine the power usage characteristics of the connected device based on known / preset data. The usage characteristics are then used to determine the state of the connected device by comparing the received data signals with the usage characteristics. In another embodiment, the usage characteristics may be retrieved from a database and stored in memory. In another embodiment, the computing module 124 analyzes power supply data signals from the interrogation module 122 over time to determine new patterns and uses machine learning algorithms to determine the power supply usage characteristics of the connected device based on previously known data or a first instruction. The method for determining the state of the connected device is described in more detail below. The computing module 124 is adapted to be operatively coupled to the communication module 126 and to send state data signals containing the state to it. The state data signals may include interpreted or raw data.

[0025] The communication module 126 can also format status data signals for communication. The communication module 126 uses a wired connection and / or wireless transmission 128 to transmit status data signals, including the status of the connected device, to one or more remote computing devices (e.g., one or more mobile computing devices and / or one or more remote servers). The communication module 126 may include a transmitter, a receiver (also referred to as a transceiver), and associated encoders, modulators, demodulators, and decoders. The communication module 126 manages and establishes a communication link 130 with the mobile computing device 132 via one or more antennas (not shown), thereby enabling bidirectional communication between the tool storage unit 100 and the software application executed on the mobile computing device 132. The communication link 130 may be a direct link between the storage unit 100 and the mobile computing device 132 (as illustrated), or it may be an indirect link via one or more intermediate components (e.g., via a Wi-Fi router or a mesh connection (not illustrated)).

[0026] refer to Figure 7 An example of a system including a communication module 126 arranged in a storage unit 100 and a mobile computing device 132 is shown. The communication module 126 communicates with the mobile computing device 132 via a wireless transmission 128 by establishing a communication link 130 using a protocol such as infrared, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Smart (also known as Bluetooth Low Energy), Wi-Fi, or any other suitable wireless protocol. In one embodiment, the mobile computing device 132 includes a touch-sensitive display 134 through which an operator interacts with a user interface provided by a software application on the mobile computing device 132. Furthermore, the software application can be used to display battery status and / or battery information, such as the charging status of battery 118 connected to charger 114 and / or one or more batteries of rechargeable electrical device 116, the power value supplied to power terminal 112, the current value and / or voltage value, the number of charging cycles, the health status of one or more batteries, etc. The software application also provides real-time feedback and interactive functions to technicians to assist operators in determining the status of connected devices.

[0027] In another embodiment, communication module 126 also communicates status with one or more remote servers 136 via wireless transmission 128 through a communication link 130 established to a data communication network 138 (e.g., the Internet). Communication link 130 can use protocols such as infrared, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Smart (also known as Bluetooth Low Energy), Wi-Fi, or any other wireless protocol to link with a local wireless router. In this embodiment, mobile computing device 132 retrieves or receives data via a wireless communication link 140 to the data communication network 138, which may include battery status and / or battery information. Wireless communication link 140 can be, for example, a Wi-Fi link between mobile computing device 132 and a local wireless router using cellular protocols such as Long Term Evolution (LTE), Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), etc.), or a cellular data link between mobile computing device 132 and a nearby cell tower. One or more remote servers 136 are connected to the data communication network 138 via one or more communication links 142. Based on queries received from software applications on mobile computing device 132, remote server 136 sends data to mobile computing device 132 via data communication network 138. This data may include battery status and / or battery information. In other system arrangements, one or more remote servers 136 may be associated with a software service provider, a manufacturing company, or a company providing repair services.

[0028] Figure 5This is a method performed by a computing device (e.g., computing module 126) to transmit the state of a battery charged by power supplied via power terminal 112. For example, computing module 126 receives (502) a power supply data signal from an interrogation module, the power supply data signal containing information (e.g., power value, current value, and / or voltage value) of the power supplied via power terminal 112 to a connected device (e.g., battery charger 114 and / or rechargeable electrical device 116). Computing module 126 determines (504) the usage characteristics of the connected device by monitoring, analyzing, and processing the power supply data signal from interrogation module 122 over time. Computing module 126 compares the information from the power supply data signal received from interrogation module 122 in the future with the determined usage characteristics (506). Based on the comparison step, the state of the battery is determined (508). Computing module 124 transmits a state data signal containing the state to communication module 126, which uses wireless transmission 128 to transmit (510) the state data signal containing the state to a remote computing device (e.g., one or more mobile computing devices 132 and / or one or more remote servers 136). The battery status can then be displayed on the monitors of one or more mobile computing devices 132 and / or one or more remote servers 136.

[0029] Typical power consumption of a rechargeable battery consists of Figure 6 The illustrated power consumption curve illustrates this. This curve is a description of the current supplied by the circuit to the power supply terminals, where a battery charger is plugged into the power supply terminals to charge the battery. For example, the upper limit of the voltage drawn is close to the typical basic units of a common battery (e.g., 9 V, 14.4 V, 18 V, 24 V, 64 V, etc.). By determining the battery's power consumption curve, the calculation module 124 can send signals via the communication module 126 to a remote computing device to indicate the battery's state (e.g., the battery is fully charged, overloaded, and / or parasitic consumption). The calculation module 126 is adapted to use the power consumption curve and information received from the interrogation module 122 to describe the state of the battery 118 being charged by the battery charger 114. For example, before and until time T1, the battery charger 114 places a parasitic load on the circuit. At time T1, the battery 118 is connected to the battery charger 114 for charging, thereby increasing the current to level C3. When battery 118 reaches a certain state of charge (e.g., 75-80% fully charged), the circuit reduces the current draw to level C2 at time T2, where level C2 is less than level C3 and greater than level C1. When battery 118 is fully charged, the current draw again decreases to approximately level C1 at time T3.

[0030] The concepts disclosed herein can be applied to a number of different devices and computer systems. Although mobile computing device 132 is described as a mobile device, any computer can be used. Similarly, remote server(s)(s)136 can be any kind of computer.

[0031] In another embodiment, such as Figure 3 As shown, the power board 210 includes power terminals 212, power connection points 220, an interrogation module 222, a computing module 224, and a communication module 226 (which are generally similar to the power terminals 112, power connection points 120, interrogation modules 122, computing modules 124, and communication modules 126 described above). The power board 210 can be arranged in a storage unit (e.g., a toolbox or cabinet) that is generally similar to the storage unit 100 described above. For example, the power board can be arranged in a receiving space (e.g., a drawer), a working surface, or other suitable surface of the storage unit.

[0032] Similar to power terminal 112 described above, power terminal 212 is adapted to be operatively coupled to a connected device (e.g., battery charger 214, rechargeable electrical device 216 having an integrated rechargeable battery(s) (e.g., battery-powered light, mobile phone, tablet, etc.) and / or other electric device) to provide power thereto. Battery charger 214 is adapted to be operatively coupled to and charge battery 218 in a known manner. Similar to storage unit 100 described above, power board 210 is adapted to determine the status of the connected device (e.g., battery 218 coupled to charger 214 and / or battery(s) of rechargeable electrical device 216) in a similar manner to that described above. Status may include, for example, charging status, charging cycle, and / or battery health status. Communication module 226 is adapted to then transmit data signals including the status of the connected device to one or more computing devices (e.g., one or more mobile computing devices and / or one or more remote servers) using wired connection and / or wireless transmission 228.

[0033] In another embodiment, such as Figure 4As shown, the power board 310 includes power terminals 312, power connection points 320, a computing module 324, and a communication module 326 (which are generally similar to the power terminals 112, power connection points 120, computing module 124, and communication module 126 described above). In this embodiment, the power board 310 includes interrogation modules 322 in a number corresponding to the number of power terminals 312. Each of the interrogation modules is generally similar to the interrogation module 122 described above and is operatively coupled to one of the power terminals 312. Although three interrogation modules 322 and power terminals 312 are shown, the invention is not limited thereto, and any suitable number of power terminals 312 and corresponding interrogation modules 322 can be used. The power board 310 can be arranged in a storage unit (e.g., a toolbox or cabinet) that is generally similar to the storage unit 100 described above. For example, the power board 310 can be arranged in a receiving space (e.g., a drawer), a working surface, or other suitable surface of the storage unit.

[0034] Similar to power terminal 112 described above, power terminal 312 is adapted to be operatively connected to a connected device (e.g., battery charger 314, rechargeable electrical device 316 having an integrated rechargeable battery(s) (e.g., battery-powered lamp, mobile phone, tablet, etc.)) and / or other electric device) to provide power to it. Battery charger 314 is adapted to be operatively connected to and charge battery 318 in a known manner. Similar to storage unit 100 described above, power board 310 is adapted to determine the status of the connected device (e.g., battery 318 connected to charger 314 and / or battery(s) of rechargeable electrical device 316) in a similar manner to that described above. Status may include, for example, charging status, charging cycle, and / or battery health status. Communication module 326 is adapted to then transmit data signals including the status of the connected device to one or more computing devices (e.g., one or more mobile computing devices and / or one or more remote servers) using wired connection and / or wireless transmission 328.

[0035] Therefore, the disclosed invention provides a power board and / or storage unit with the ability to query or monitor the power (power, current, and / or voltage) supplied to a connected device, with the aim of measuring the usage characteristics of the connected device and transmitting that information to another device, network, and / or audiovisual system. The circuitry and placement of the query module, computing module, and communication module may differ from the disclosed arrangement to query or monitor the power supplied to a device connected to a power terminal.

[0036] As used herein, the term "connecting" and its functional equivalents are not intended to be limited to a direct mechanical connection of two or more components. Rather, the term "connecting" and its functional equivalents are intended to mean any direct or indirect mechanical, electrical, or chemical connection between two or more objects, features, workpieces, and / or environmental substances. In some examples, "connecting" is also intended to mean the integration of one object with another.

[0037] The contents set forth in the foregoing specification and drawings are provided by way of illustration only and not as limitation. Although specific embodiments have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications can be made without departing from the broader aspects of the inventors' contributions. The actual scope of protection sought is intended to be defined by the appended claims when viewed from a suitable perspective based on the prior art.

Claims

1. A storage unit having a accommodating space, comprising: Power supply terminals, which are adapted to be operably connected to and supply power to connected devices; An inquiry module, operably connected to the power terminal, is adapted to inquire about power supply information including at least one of power, current, and voltage of the power supplied to the connected device via the power terminal, and is adapted to send a power supply data signal based on the power supply information. A computing module, operably connected to the interrogation module, and adapted to receive the power supply data signal from the interrogation module and determine the status of the connected device; as well as A communication module, operably connected to the computing module, and adapted to receive status data signals from the computing module and transmit the status data signals to a remote computing device.

2. The storage unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The storage unit is a toolbox.

3. The storage unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power terminals are arranged on the power board.

4. The storage unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The query module includes at least one of a voltmeter, an ammeter, and a wattmeter.

5. The storage unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The calculation module is adapted to determine the status of the connected device by comparing the power supply data signal with the power consumption curve.

6. The storage unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connection device is a battery that is operatively connected to the power terminal via a battery charger.

7. The storage unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The computing module processes power supply data signals from the interrogation module over time to determine usage characteristics.

8. The storage unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The state includes at least one of the following: charging state, number of charging cycles, and battery health status.

9. A power board having power terminals adapted to be operatively connected to and supply power to a connected device, the power board comprising: An inquiry module, operably connected to the power terminal, is adapted to inquire about power supply information including at least one of power, current, and voltage of the power supplied to the connected device via the power terminal, and is adapted to send a power supply data signal based on the power supply information. A computing module, operably connected to the interrogation module, and adapted to receive the power supply data signal from the interrogation module and determine the status of the connected device; as well as A communication module, operably connected to the computing module, and adapted to receive status data signals from the computing module and transmit the status data signals to a remote computing device.

10. The power board according to claim 9, characterized in that, The query module includes at least one of a voltmeter, an ammeter, and a wattmeter.

11. The power board according to claim 9, characterized in that, The calculation module is adapted to determine the status of the connected device by comparing the power supply data signal with the power consumption curve.

12. The power board according to claim 9, characterized in that, The connection device is an electrical device with a rechargeable battery.

13. The power board according to claim 9, characterized in that, The computing module processes power supply data signals from the interrogation module over time to determine usage characteristics.

14. The power board according to claim 9, characterized in that, The state includes at least one of the following: charging state, number of charging cycles, and battery health status.

15. A power board having a first power terminal and a second power terminal, the first power terminal and the second power terminal being adapted to be operably connected to a first connection device and a second connection device respectively and to provide power thereto, the power board comprising: A first interrogation module is operatively connected to the first power terminal, adapted to obtain first power supply information including at least one of power, current, and voltage of power supplied to the first connected device via the first power terminal, and adapted to send a first power supply data signal based on the first power supply information. The second interrogation module is operatively connected to the second power terminal, adapted to obtain second power supply information including at least one of power, current, and voltage of the power supplied to the second connected device via the second power terminal, and adapted to send a second power supply data signal based on the second power supply information. A computing module, operably connected to the first interrogation module and the second interrogation module, and adapted to receive the first power supply data signal and the second power supply data signal and determine the state of each of the first connection device and the second connection device; as well as A communication module, operably connected to the computing module, and adapted to receive status data signals from the computing module and transmit the status data signals to a remote computing device.

16. The power board according to claim 15, characterized in that, The power board is located within the storage unit.

17. A method for transmitting the status of a connected device, performed by a computing device, the connected device being operatively coupled to a power terminal disposed in a storage unit and adapted to receive power supplied by the power terminal, the method comprising: Receive a power supply data signal from the interrogation module, which includes information on at least one of the power, current, and voltage supplied to the connected device. Determine the status of the connected device; as well as The status data signal indicating the status is transmitted to a remote computing device via a communication module.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, It also includes determining usage characteristics by processing power supply data signals from the interrogation module over time.

19. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, It also includes displaying the status on the display of the remote computing device.

20. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, Determining the status of the connected device includes comparing power supply data signals with power consumption curves.

Images