Portable energy storage charging and bidirectional distribution system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a charging module for charging a portable electrical energy storage device. The housing is sized to accommodate at least partial insertion of a portable electrical energy storage device along the longitudinal axis of the housing into an interior space formed by a peripheral housing wall coupled to a base. A plurality of electrical contacts protrude at least partially from the base into the interior space of the housing. A locking mechanism protrudes at least partially from the base into the interior space of the housing. The housing door is axially displaceable along the longitudinal axis of the housing from a first position perpendicular to the housing wall and proximate an orifice to at least one second position perpendicular to the housing wall and proximate the base of the housing. The orifice extends through the housing door concentrically with the longitudinal axis of the housing, the orifice being configured to accommodate passage of at least a portion of the locking mechanism and at least a portion of the plurality of electrical contacts when the housing door is displaced to at least one second position. At least one biasing element operatively couples the housing door to the base, the at least one biasing element biasing the housing door toward the first position.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with the application date of September 1, 2015 (the divisional filing date is August 28, 2019), application number 201580045506.7 (divisional application number is 201910802506.7), and invention name “Method for operating a portable power storage charging and bidirectional distribution system and a bidirectional distribution system”. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention generally relates to a portable electrical energy storage charging and bidirectional distribution system. Background Art

[0003] Electric vehicles are gaining popularity worldwide. One of the major obstacles to widespread acceptance of electric or battery-powered vehicles is the ready availability of charged portable electrical energy storage to avoid stranding drivers for extended periods while recharging. This problem is particularly acute in areas and regions susceptible to disruptions in electricity distribution and / or delivery. Providing a readily available source of charged portable electrical storage in a number of convenient locations could alleviate many drivers' concerns and promote widespread acceptance of electric vehicles, especially in highly congested urban areas. Broad-based adoption of electric vehicle technology could help improve air quality in areas where vehicles and other minimally regulated mobile emission sources are prevalent. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Applicants have advantageously developed a vehicle, such as a scooter, that is powered by modular portable electrical energy storage. A network of two-way distribution, charging, and vending systems for portable electrical energy storage located throughout a region supports vehicles by exchanging discharged or depleted portable electrical energy storage for charged portable electrical energy storage. By reducing the recharging process to a simple "drop off a discharged battery and pick up a charged battery" concept, drivers receive a sense of peace of mind similar to that provided by fossil fuel stations in fossil fueled vehicles. Each of the two-way distribution, charging, and vending systems may, as appropriate, provide additional services that improve or enhance the sense of value to the driver. For example, a two-way distribution, charging, and vending system may have the ability to perform one or more diagnostic procedures on a vehicle and provide output to the driver indicating the results of the diagnostic procedures.

[0005] In a typical example, a driver obtains a vehicle powered by one or more portable energy storage devices and subscribes to a plan offered by the vehicle manufacturer or portable energy storage device supplier that permits bidirectional exchange of depleted or partially / fully discharged portable energy storage devices at any bidirectional distribution, charging, and vending system within the manufacturer's network. These bidirectional distribution, charging, and vending systems can be located anywhere where power and wired or wireless communication capabilities are available.

[0006] The bidirectional distribution, charging, and vending system includes at least one bidirectional distribution system controller, a power distribution system, at least one communication interface, and a rigid structure comprising a plurality of containers or "buckets." Each of the buckets can accept a slidably insertable power converter module that converts power supplied by a power distribution system (e.g., a public or private power grid, solar cells, or other renewable energy sources) into a form and voltage suitable for charging a portable electrical energy storage device. Each of the buckets can further accept the slidable insertion of a charging module that is conductively coupled to and receives power from the modular power converter and is communicatively coupled to the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller, either wired or wirelessly.

[0007] A user inserts a partially or completely discharged portable energy storage device into a first (empty) charging module in the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system. Upon receiving the portable energy storage device from the user, the two-way dispensing system controller authenticates the portable energy storage device by reading a manufacturer identifier stored on a non-transitory storage medium carried by the portable energy storage device. The controller also verifies a user identifier read from the non-transitory storage medium carried by the portable energy storage device provided by the user to confirm that the subscription is current and to determine any services to which the user may be entitled.

[0008] After authenticating the portable energy storage device and verifying the user, the controller unlocks / releases the one or more charged portable energy storage devices from the one or more second charging modules. The user can then remove the charged portable energy storage device from the second charging module. The time required to perform this exchange is minimal and is advantageously comparable to the time required to fill a conventional vehicle's fuel tank.

[0009] Several charging modules are inserted into the barrels of the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system. Each of the charging modules is equipped with one or more modular connectors or interfaces that communicatively couple the charging modules to the power distribution system (e.g., bus and branch lines) immediately after the charging modules are seated in the barrel. Each of the charging modules is further equipped with at least one of a wired or wireless communication module that autonomously communicatively couples to the two-way dispensing system controller, either wired or wirelessly, immediately after the charging modules are seated in the barrel.

[0010] The modular design of the charging modules eliminates the need for on-site maintenance of a failed charging module, which is a significant advantage in areas where severe cold weather is common and access to electronic diagnostic tools is limited. Each charging module is electrically isolated from every other charging module in the two-way distribution, charging and vending system, so a failure of a single charging module does not adversely affect the operation of other charging modules or the two-way distribution, charging and vending system as a whole. The two-way distribution, charging and vending system may include a modular construction that enables modules to be physically, electrically and communicatively linked to form a two-way distribution, charging and vending system with any number of charging modules. This modular construction is advantageous to accommodate an increase in the number of users in a minimally disruptive manner (i.e., the two-way distribution, charging and vending system is not replaced, but rather expanded to accommodate user growth).

[0011] The charging module incorporates a displaceable housing door. A spring or other biasing member biases the displaceable housing door toward the entrance of the charging module. The displaceable housing door incorporates or seats against a weatherproof seal that limits or prevents the ingress of rain, dust, and dirt into the charging module. The act of inserting a portable electrical energy reservoir displaces the housing door along a longitudinal axis of the charging module. An aperture in the housing door permits a locking hub in the base of the charging module to pass through the displaceable door and engage a complementary cavity on the portable electrical energy reservoir, thereby securing the portable electrical energy reservoir in the charging module. The aperture also permits a number of electrical contacts to pass through to engage a number of complementary electrical contacts on the portable electrical energy reservoir, thereby permitting current to flow from the bidirectional distribution, charging, and vending system to the portable electrical energy reservoir.

[0012] After a portable energy storage device is inserted into a charging module, the bidirectional distribution system controller immediately performs various diagnostic tests to confirm the utility and safety of the portable energy storage device. For example, the bidirectional distribution, charging, and vending system can determine whether the recently received portable energy storage device can maintain an acceptable charge level. If the bidirectional distribution system controller determines that an inserted portable energy storage device is unsuitable for continued use, the bidirectional distribution system controller can lock the portable energy storage device into the charging module.

[0013] The bidirectional distribution system controller may optionally transmit one or more messages to a backend system via a wired (e.g., plain old telephone service or POTS) or wireless (e.g., GSM or CDMA cellular communication or IEEE 802.11 WiFi) communication interface. The bidirectional distribution system controller may also provide environmental control (e.g., cooling, heating, dehumidification) within individual charging modules and / or within individual portable energy storage devices inserted into the charging modules to ensure that the portable energy storage devices are maintained at an optimal temperature during the charging process.

[0014] A charging module for charging a portable electrical energy storage device can be summarized as comprising: a housing sized to accommodate at least partial insertion of a portable electrical energy storage device along a longitudinal axis of the housing into an interior space formed by a peripheral housing wall coupled to a base; a plurality of electrical contacts projecting at least partially from the base into the interior space of the housing; a displaceable (e.g., a rotationally displaceable) locking mechanism projecting at least partially from the base into the interior space of the housing; an inlet coupled to the peripheral housing wall opposite the base, the inlet comprising an aperture connecting the interior space of the housing to an exterior space surrounding the housing, the perimeter of the aperture corresponding closely to the perimeter of the housing. at least one physical aspect of a housing for a portable electrical energy storage device; a housing door operatively coupled to the housing and positioned within the interior of the housing, the housing door being axially displaceable along the longitudinal axis of the housing from a first position perpendicular to the housing wall and proximate the aperture to at least a second position perpendicular to the housing wall and proximate the base of the housing; an aperture extending through the housing door concentric with the longitudinal axis of the housing, the aperture being configured to accommodate passage of at least a portion of the locking mechanism and at least a portion of the plurality of electrical contacts when the housing door is displaced to the second position; and at least one biasing element operatively coupling the door to the base, the at least one biasing element biasing the housing door toward the first position.

[0015] The charging module may further include a displaceable cover positioned proximate the orifice and displaceable from a closed position in which the orifice is blocked to an open position in which the orifice is unobstructed, the cover being operatively coupled to the housing door and to the housing such that when the housing door is displaced from the first position to the second position, the cover is displaced from the closed position to the open position.

[0016] The charging module may further include an actuator coupled to the locking mechanism, the actuator causing a displacement of the locking mechanism in response to a receipt of the portable energy storage housing in the interior space of the housing.

[0017] The charging module may further include a modular electrical interface conductively coupled to the plurality of electrical contacts protruding from the base of the housing into the interior space of the housing. Each of the plurality of electrical contacts may be positioned concentrically with the longitudinal axis of the housing and electrically isolated from any other electrical contacts in the plurality of electrical contacts. Each of the plurality of electrical contacts may include a circular annular electrical contact positioned concentrically with the longitudinal axis of the housing and electrically isolated from any other electrical contacts in the plurality of electrical contacts. Each of the plurality of electrical contacts may include at least one of the following: a polygonal annular electrical contact or a rounded polygonal annular electrical contact, each electrical contact positioned concentrically with the longitudinal axis of the housing and electrically isolated from any other electrical contacts in the plurality of electrical contacts. The plurality of electrical contacts may form an electrically continuous circuit with a plurality of corresponding externally accessible electrical contacts on a housing of a portable energy storage device when the portable energy storage device is inserted into the housing. The plurality of electrical contacts can form an electrically continuous circuit with a plurality of corresponding electrical contacts on an exterior surface of the portable energy storage housing, independent of rotation of the portable energy storage housing about the longitudinal axis of the housing. The locking mechanism can be positioned radially concentric with the plurality of electrical contacts and electrically isolated from the plurality of electrical contacts. The displaceable cover can include a rotatable displaceable cover; and the rotatable displaceable cover can rotate from the closed position to the open position when the housing door is displaced and rotated from the first position to the second position. The displaceable cover can include a slidable displaceable cover; and the slidable displaceable cover can slide from the closed position to the open position when the housing door is displaced from the first position to the second position. A central region of the housing door can include a recessed portion symmetrically disposed about two orthogonal transverse axes, the two orthogonal transverse axes being orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the housing, the recessed portion corresponding to a protrusion of the portable energy storage housing.

[0018] The charging module may further include a portable energy storage thermal control system, which includes: at least one input channel, which is communicatively coupled to at least one bidirectional distribution system controller, and the at least one input channel is used to receive an input signal from a portable energy storage inserted in the respective housing, and the input signal includes digital data representing an internal temperature of the portable energy storage inserted in the respective charging module; at least one output channel, which is communicatively coupled to the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller, and the at least one output channel is used to provide an output signal to at least one of a temperature control subsystem or a temperature control device to maintain the internal temperature of the portable energy storage inserted in the respective charging module within a defined range at least when charging the portable energy storage.

[0019] A method of operating a portable energy storage charging and bidirectional distribution system can be summarized as comprising: accepting insertion of a first portable energy storage into a first one of a plurality of charging modules, each of the plurality of charging modules being bidirectionally communicatively coupled to at least one bidirectional distribution system controller; reading data from one or more non-transitory storage media carried by the first portable energy storage via a communication interface communicatively coupled to the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller; authenticating a first portion of the data read from the one or more non-transitory storage media carried by the portable energy storage using the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller; and The bidirectional distribution system controller verifies a second part of the data read from the one or more non-transitory storage media carried by the free portable energy storage; and in response to successfully authenticating the first part of the data and in response to successfully verifying the second part of the data: the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller writes the second part of the data read from the one or more non-transitory storage media carried by the free first portable energy storage to one or more non-transitory storage media carried by a second portable energy storage inserted into a second one of the plurality of charging modules; and allows the second portable energy storage to be removed from a second one of the plurality of charging modules. Accepting insertion of a first portable energy storage device into a first one of a number of charging modules may include: accepting at least partial insertion of the first portable energy storage device into the first one of the number of charging modules; locking the first portable energy storage device into the first one of the number of charging modules by autonomously displacing a locking hub to a first (locked) position in which a portable energy storage device inserted into the first one of the number of charging modules cannot be removed; and allowing removal of the second portable energy storage device from a second one of the number of charging modules may include: unlocking the second portable energy storage device from the second one of the number of charging modules by autonomously displacing a locking hub to a second (unlocked) position in which a portable energy storage device can be removed from the second one of the number of charging modules. Causing the locking hub to autonomously displace to a first (locked) position may include: rotatably displacing the locking hub in the first of the several charging modules from the first (locked) position when the first portable energy storage device is inserted into the first of the several charging modules; and autonomously rotating the locking hub back to the first (locked) position via one or more biasing members after the first portable energy storage device is inserted into the first of the several charging modules.Causing the locking hub to autonomously displace to a second (unlocked) position may include autonomously displacing an actuator from a first position to a second position, the displacement of the actuator from the first position to the second position being sufficient to cause a corresponding displacement of the operatively coupled locking hub in the second of the plurality of charging modules from the first (locked) position to the second (unlocked) position. Allowing insertion of a first portable electrical energy storage device into a first of the plurality of charging modules may include accepting at least partial insertion of the first portable electrical energy storage device into the first of the plurality of charging modules such that a perimeter of a housing disposed around the first portable electrical energy storage device receives a perimeter of the housing when a longitudinal axis of the housing is collinear with a longitudinal axis of the first of the plurality of charging modules, regardless of an orientation of the housing around the longitudinal axis of the housing.

[0020] The method may further include: reading data indicating one or more operating states of an external device powered by the first portable energy storage from the one or more non-transitory storage media carried by the first portable energy storage via the communication interface communicatively coupled to the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller; generating data representing a display output for presentation on one or more output devices communicatively coupled to the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller; and erasing the data indicating one or more operating states of the external device powered by the first portable energy storage from the one or more non-transitory storage media carried by the first portable energy storage via the communication interface communicatively coupled to the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller. Verifying a second part of the data read from the one or more non-transitory storage media carried by the portable energy storage may include: transmitting the second part of the data read from the one or more non-transitory storage media carried by the portable energy storage to one or more back-end systems by the at least one bidirectional distribution controller; confirming the validity of the second part of the data read from the one or more non-transitory storage media carried by the portable energy storage by the at least one back-end system; and in response to the back-end system successfully verifying the second part of the data read from the one or more non-transitory storage media carried by the portable energy storage, transmitting a message indicating a successful verification to the at least one bidirectional distribution controller. Confirming the validity of the second portion of the data read from the one or more non-transitory storage media carried by the portable energy storage by the at least one back-end system may include: confirming at least one subscription plan logically associated with the user identification data contained in the second portion of the data read from the one or more non-transitory storage media carried by the portable energy storage. Accepting insertion of a first portable energy storage device into a first of a number of charging modules may include: accepting at least partial insertion of the first portable energy storage device into the first of the number of charging modules; and allowing removal of the second portable energy storage device from a second of the number of charging modules may include: locking the first portable energy storage device to the first of the number of charging modules by autonomously displacing a locking hub to a first (locked) position in which a portable energy storage device inserted into the first of the number of charging modules cannot be removed; and unlocking the second portable energy storage device from the second of the number of charging modules by autonomously displacing a locking hub to a second (unlocked) position in which a portable energy storage device can be removed from the second of the number of charging modules.Accepting at least partial insertion of the first portable energy storage device into the first of the plurality of charging modules may include autonomously displacing an actuator from a first position to a second position sufficient to displace the operatively coupled locking hub in the first of the plurality of charging modules from the first (locked) position to the second (unlocked) position, and autonomously maintaining the actuator in the second position to maintain the locking hub in the second (unlocked) position; and preventing removal of the first portable energy storage device from the first of the plurality of charging modules by engaging a locking hub in the first of the plurality of charging modules includes autonomously displacing the actuator from the second position to the first position sufficient to displace the operatively coupled locking hub in the first of the plurality of charging modules from the second (locked) position to the first (unlocked) position, and autonomously maintaining the actuator in the first position to thereby prevent removal of the first portable energy storage device from the first of the plurality of charging modules. Autonomously displacing the actuator from the second position to the first position may include deactivating the actuator and permitting at least one biasing device to return the locking hub in the first of the plurality of charging modules from the second (unlocked) position to the first (locked) position.

[0021] The method may further include: receiving, by the at least one bidirectional allocation controller, at least one output signal provided by at least one biometric sensor; and selecting, by the at least one bidirectional allocation controller, the second portable energy storage based at least in part on data contained in the at least one output signal provided by the at least one biometric sensor.

[0022] The method may further include, in response to unsuccessful authentication of the first portion of the data or in response to unsuccessful verification of the second portion of the data: displacing an actuator operatively coupled to the locking hub in the first of the plurality of charging modules from a first position to a second position sufficient to displace the locking hub in the first of the plurality of charging modules from the first (locked) position to a second (unlocked) position, thereby permitting removal of the first portable energy storage device from the first of the plurality of charging modules; and maintaining an actuator operatively coupled to the locking hub in the second of the plurality of charging modules in a first position sufficient to maintain the locking hub in the second of the plurality of charging modules in the first (locked) position, thereby preventing removal of the second portable energy storage device from the second of the plurality of charging modules.

[0023] A portable energy storage charging and bidirectional distribution system can be summarized as comprising: a housing comprising a power distribution network and a plurality of barrels, each of the barrels being capable of accommodating a portable energy storage charging module and a reversible selective insertion of a power converter module conductively coupled to the power distribution network and coupled to the portable energy storage charging module; a first communication interface that can be wirelessly coupled to at least some of the portable energy storages inserted into each of the plurality of barrels and can be wirelessly coupled to one or more wireless credentials carried by a system user; a second communication interface that can be communicatively coupled to at least one back-end system; at least one non-transitory processor-readable storage medium that stores processor-executable instructions; and at least one bidirectional distribution system. A controller communicatively coupled to the at least one non-transitory processor-readable storage medium, the at least one bidirectional dispensing system controller being configured to execute the processor-executable instructions and in response to: receiving data indicating a user identifier uniquely identifying a user via the first communication interface; transmitting the received data indicating the user identifier to the backend system via the second communication interface; in response to insertion of a plurality of portable energy storage devices into a plurality of respective unoccupied portable energy storage charging modules, locking the inserted portable energy storage devices into the respective portable energy storage charging modules; and in response to receiving data indicating authorization from the backend system, unlocking the plurality of authorized charged portable energy storage devices from the plurality of respective occupied portable energy storage charging modules. The first communication interface is configured to bidirectionally transmit data with a communication interface carried by a vehicle powered by a portable energy storage device proximate to the portable energy storage charging system. The first communication interface can bidirectionally transmit vehicle-specific data to a communication interface carried by a vehicle powered by a portable energy storage device proximate to the portable energy storage device charging system. The vehicle-specific data can include at least one of the following: vehicle-specific repair data or vehicle-specific maintenance data. The first communication interface can bidirectionally transmit data to a communication interface carried by a portable energy storage device.

[0024] The portable electrical energy storage charging and bidirectional dispensing system may further include at least one biometric sensor communicatively coupled to the at least one bidirectional dispensing system controller.

[0025] The at least one two-way dispensing system controller can execute the processor-executable instructions and further can receive data indicating at least one user biometric property from the at least one biometric sensor; and in response to the receipt of the data indicating at least one user biometric property, can selectively unlock a plurality of authorized charged portable energy storage devices from a plurality of respectively occupied portable energy storage device charging modules.

[0026] 18. The portable energy storage charging module as claimed in claim 17, wherein the charging module comprises a first housing and a second housing, wherein the first housing and the second housing are connected in a direction of rotation relative to each other to form a circuit board. The first housing and the second housing are connected in a direction of rotation relative to each other to form a circuit board. The first housing and the second housing are connected in a direction of rotation relative to each other to form a circuit board. The invention also includes a first position perpendicular to the housing wall and proximate the aperture that is continuously axially displaceable to at least a second position perpendicular to the housing wall and proximate the base of the housing; an aperture extending through the housing door concentric with the longitudinal axis of the housing, the aperture being configured to accommodate passage of at least a portion of the locking mechanism and at least a portion of the plurality of electrical contacts when the housing door is displaced to the second position; at least one biasing element operatively coupling the door to the base, the at least one biasing element biasing the housing door toward the first position; and a displaceable cover disposed proximate the aperture and displaceable from a closed position in which the aperture is blocked to an open position in which the aperture is unobstructed, the cover being operatively coupled to the housing door and to the housing such that when the housing door is displaced from the first position to the second position, the cover displaces from the closed position to the open position. Each of the barrels can accommodate reversibly sliding, physical insertion and removal of a charging module. Each of the buckets can accommodate the reversibly sliding physical insertion and removal of a power converter module and the reversibly sliding conductive coupling of the power converter module to a power distribution network and to the respective charging module inserted in the bucket.

[0027] The portable energy storage charging and bidirectional distribution system may further include at least one portable energy storage temperature sensor disposed in each of the charging modules; wherein the processor executable instructions further cause the at least one processor to maintain a temperature of the respective portable energy storage received by the charging module within a defined temperature range when charging the portable energy storage.

[0028] A method of operating a portable electrical energy storage bidirectional distribution, charging and vending device can be summarized as including: receiving a first portable electrical energy storage in a first of a number of charging modules communicatively coupled to at least one bidirectional distribution system controller; in response to receiving the first portable electrical energy storage in the first of the number of charging modules, determining a condition of the first portable electrical energy storage by the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller; in response to determining that the condition of the first portable electrical energy storage is acceptable for charging, initiating charging of the first portable electrical energy storage; and maintaining thermal conditions within the first portable electrical energy storage within a defined temperature range concurrently with charging the first portable electrical energy storage.

[0029] The method may further include positioning an actuator operatively coupled to a locking hub in the first charging module in a first position sufficient to position the locking hub in the first charging module in a first (locked) position, thereby preventing removal of the first portable energy storage device from the first of the plurality of charging modules.

[0030] The method may further include: in response to receiving the first portable energy storage in the first of the plurality of charging modules, reading data from a non-transitory storage medium carried by the first portable energy storage by the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller. Reading data from a non-transitory storage medium carried by the first portable energy storage by the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller may include: reading data from a first immutable portion of the non-transitory storage medium carried by the first portable energy storage by the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller, the data in the first immutable portion of the non-transitory storage medium including data indicating a manufacturer-specific code.

[0031] Reading data from a non-transitory storage medium carried by the first portable energy storage by the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller may include: reading data from a second overwritable portion of the non-transitory storage medium carried by the first portable energy storage by the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller, the data in the second overwritable portion of the non-transitory storage medium including data indicating at least one user identifier. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] Throughout the drawings, like reference numbers identify similar elements or activities. The sizes and relative positions of elements in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the shapes and angles of various elements are not drawn to scale, and some of these elements are arbitrarily enlarged and positioned to improve drawing clarity. Furthermore, the particular shapes of elements as drawn are not intended to convey any information about the actual shape of the particular element and are selected solely for ease of identification in the drawings.

[0033] Figure 1 A schematic diagram depicts an environment in which vehicles powered by portable electrical energy storage exchange discharged devices for charged devices at bidirectional dispensing and vending systems, according to an illustrated embodiment.

[0034] Figure 2A is a perspective view of an exterior of an exemplary two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system having four (4) charging modules, according to a non-limiting illustrative embodiment.

[0035] Figure 2B According to a non-limiting illustrated embodiment, the front cover is opened to expose three (3) charging module barrels containing charging modules and one (1) empty charging module barrel. Figure 2A A perspective view of an interior of an exemplary two-way distribution, charging and vending system in.

[0036] Figure 2C According to a non-limiting illustrated embodiment, the front cover is opened to expose several charging modules. Figure 2A A perspective view of an exemplary two-way distribution, charging and vending system in which one of the charging modules contains a portable energy storage device.

[0037] Figure 2D is a plan view of a bottom surface of an exemplary portable electrical energy storage device including locking grooves and charging contacts according to a non-limiting illustrated embodiment.

[0038] Figure 2E is a perspective view of an illustrative charging module locking hub including a charging module adapted to engage a Figure 2D The portable electrical energy storage device shown in FIG. 1 includes a plurality of locking members corresponding to the complementary locking grooves on the portable electrical energy storage device and a plurality of charging contacts adapted to be conductively coupled to a plurality of corresponding complementary charging contacts on the portable electrical energy storage device.

[0039] Figure 2F is insertable into Figure 2AA perspective view of an illustrative power converter module in a bidirectional distribution, charging and vending system in FIG. 1 for converting power received from a power grid and / or renewable energy sources into direct current power that can be used to charge a portable electrical energy storage device.

[0040] Figure 3A is a perspective view of an exemplary charging module according to a non-limiting illustrative embodiment.

[0041] Figure 3B is a plan view of a top portion of an exemplary charging module showing the housing door and the aperture centered in the housing door, according to one non-limiting illustrative embodiment.

[0042] Figure 3C is a cross-sectional view along section line 3C illustrating the physical and spatial relationship between the displaceable housing door, the locking hub, and a plurality of electrical contacts, according to one non-limiting, illustrative embodiment.

[0043] Figure 3D is a cross-sectional view along section line 3D illustrating the relationship between a displaceable housing door, a locking hub, a plurality of electrical contacts, and an exemplary aperture cover, according to one non-limiting, illustrated embodiment.

[0044] Figure 3E is a plan view of a bottom portion of an exemplary charging module illustrating various communication and power connectors, locking hubs, and actuators for the locking hubs, according to a non-limiting illustrative embodiment.

[0045] Figure 4 is a high-level logic flow diagram of an illustrative method of operating a bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system for providing portable electrical energy storage, according to a non-limiting illustrated embodiment.

[0046] Figure 5 is a high-level logic flow diagram of an illustrative method of managing a bidirectional distribution of portable electrical energy storage from a bidirectional distribution, charging, and vending system according to a non-limiting illustrated embodiment.

[0047] Figure 6 A high-level logic flow chart of an illustrative method for displaying vehicle-specific information retrieved from a non-transitory storage medium carried by a portable energy storage device used in an exchange procedure at a two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system according to a non-limiting illustrated embodiment.

[0048] Figure 7is a high-level logic flow diagram of an illustrative method for verifying a user identifier using one or more backend systems communicatively coupled to a two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system, according to a non-limiting illustrated embodiment.

[0049] Figure 8 is a high-level logic flow diagram of an illustrative method for charging a first portable electrical energy storage device received by a two-way distribution, charging, and vending system according to a non-limiting illustrated embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] In the following description, certain specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various disclosed embodiments. However, one skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the embodiments may be practiced without one or more of these specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In other instances, well-known structures associated with controllers and / or microprocessors and associated programming, logic, and / or instruction sets; AC / DC power converters; buck and boost transformers; thermal control systems; portable electrical energy storage (e.g., secondary batteries); networks and network communication protocols; and wireless communication protocols have not been depicted or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the description of the embodiments.

[0051] As used herein, an "operating state" or a reference to one or more "operating states" of a vehicle includes the performance or functionality of any combination or number of systems or devices that form all or part of the indicated system. For example, the operating state of a vehicle system may include, but is not limited to, one or more of the following: vehicle cooling system; vehicle fuel system; vehicle steering or directional control system; vehicle suspension; vehicle electrical and ignition systems; vehicle driveline and power transmission system; vehicle powertrain or motor; vehicle exhaust or emissions; or vehicle braking. An event that affects one or more operating states of a vehicle may affect the performance or functionality of one or more of the listed systems. In a similar manner, the operating state of a vehicle electrical system may include, but is not limited to, the performance or functionality of one or more components typically included in a vehicle electrical system, such as battery discharge rate, ignition, timing, lights, electrical systems, electrical instruments, and the like. Thus, an event that affects one or more states of a vehicle electrical system may affect the performance or functionality of one or more electrical system components (e.g., limiting the discharge rate of a battery to limit vehicle speed, preventing the ignition system from starting the vehicle, etc.).

[0052] Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification and the following claims, the word "comprise" and variations thereof (such as, "comprises" and "comprising") should be construed in an open, inclusive sense, i.e., as in "including, but not limited to."

[0053] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, various appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

[0054] The use of ordinal numbers (such as first, second, and third) does not necessarily imply a hierarchical order meaning but may simply distinguish between multiple instances of an action or structure.

[0055] Reference to a portable power storage device means any device capable of storing power and releasing the stored power, including but not limited to a battery, supercapacitor, or ultracapacitor. Reference to a battery means one or more chemical storage cells, for example, rechargeable or secondary battery cells, including but not limited to nickel-cadmium alloy or lithium-ion battery cells.

[0056] The titles and abstracts of the inventions provided herein are for convenience only and do not interpret the scope or meaning of the embodiments.

[0057] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an illustrative portable energy storage device dispensing system 100 is shown, including a number of two-way dispensing, charging, and vending systems 110a through 110n (collectively, "two-way dispensing, charging, and vending systems 110"). According to one illustrated embodiment, each of the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending systems 110 is capable of receiving, charging, and dispensing portable energy storage devices 120a through 120n (collectively, "portable energy storage devices 120") from users 130a through 130n (collectively, "users 130"). Each of the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending systems 110 includes any number of charging modules 112a through 112n (collectively, "charging modules 112"). Additionally, each of the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending systems 110 includes at least one two-way dispensing system controller 114. The two-way dispensing, charging, and vending systems 110 may optionally include one or more user interfaces 116 communicatively coupled to the at least one two-way dispensing system controller 114. In certain embodiments, one or more networks 150 communicatively couple some or all of the two-way distribution system controllers 114 to one or more backend systems 160. The one or more networks 150 may include, but are not limited to, one or more local area networks (LANs); one or more wide area networks (WANs); one or more global networks (e.g., the Internet); or a combination thereof.

[0058] Vehicles 140a through 140n (collectively, "vehicles 140") can be powered using one or more portable energy storage devices 120, for example, through the use of an electric traction motor. Each of the vehicles 140 is associated with at least one specific user 130, which may include a single individual, multiple individuals, a business or company, or a government entity. Based on a subscription plan selected by the user 130, each user 130 is allocated a specific number of portable energy storage devices 120 and / or a specific type of portable energy storage device 120 (e.g., standard output, high output, low capacity / short range, high capacity / long range, and the like). A user 130 exchanges a portable energy storage device 120 at a bidirectional distribution, charging, and vending system 110 by inserting an at least partially discharged portable energy storage device 120 into a first charging module 112a and removing an at least partially charged portable energy storage device 120 from a second charging module 112b. The two-way distribution, charging, and vending system 110 distributes at least partially charged portable electrical energy storage devices 120 to respective users 130 based at least in part on a subscription plan selected by the user 130 .

[0059] Each portable energy storage device 120 carries a non-transitory storage medium 122. Sometimes, manufacturer-specific data associated with the portable energy storage device 120 may be stored in a first portion of the non-transitory storage medium 122 carried by each of the portable energy storage devices 120. In some instances, the first portion of the non-transitory storage medium 122 is immutable or otherwise non-overwritable. In some instances, the manufacturer-specific data may be encoded, encrypted, or otherwise rendered unreadable or incomprehensible. Sometimes, user identification data associated with the portable energy storage device 120 may be stored in a second portion of the non-transitory storage medium 122 carried by each of the portable energy storage devices 120. In some instances, the second portion of the non-transitory storage medium 122 is rewritable, for example, by the bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system 110.

[0060] The bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 advantageously provides a user 130 with the ability to obtain charged portable energy storage devices 120 on an as-needed or on-demand basis, depending on the subscription plan selected by and logically associated with the respective user 130. The charging modules 112a through 112n are each capable of accepting insertion of a single portable energy storage device 120. Once inserted into the charging module 112, the portable energy storage device 120 is locked into or otherwise securely retained within the charging module 112 and charged under defined and controlled conditions established and maintained by the bidirectional dispensing system controller 114. The bidirectional dispensing system controller 114 may cause subscription information, subscription renewal offers, other offers, diagnostic information related to the portable energy storage device 120 that has been exchanged, diagnostic information related to the user's vehicle 140, or a combination thereof, to be displayed on at least one user interface 116.

[0061] The bidirectional distribution system controller 114 can be communicatively coupled to one or more backend systems 160 via the network 150. The communicative coupling between the bidirectional distribution system controller 114 and the backend systems 160 can include a wired communicative coupling (e.g., via Ethernet, plain old telephone service, and the like) or a wireless communicative coupling (e.g., via a cellular connection such as GSM, CDMA, or via a wireless network connection such as IEEE 802.11, the Internet, and the like), or a combination thereof. In some instances, the bidirectional distribution system controller 114 can have multiple communicative couplings with the backend systems 160 (e.g., one connection via terrestrial wired POTS and a second connection via wireless cellular or satellite) to provide redundant and / or failover communication capabilities.

[0062] In certain embodiments, the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 may optionally include any number of input / output (I / O) devices. These I / O devices communicate data read or otherwise obtained by the I / O devices to the two-way dispensing system controller 114. For example, a cash or currency (i.e., bills, coins, and / or tokens) acceptor may be communicatively coupled to the two-way dispensing system controller 114 to permit cash payments (i.e., point-of-sale or subscription payments) to be accepted at the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110. In another example, a magnetic stripe reader may be communicatively coupled to the two-way dispensing system controller 114 to permit the acceptance of credit and / or debit card payments and also permit user identification cards to be used with the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110. In another example, a near-field communication (NFC) or other similar short-range wireless communication interface may be communicatively coupled to the two-way dispensing system controller 114. These short-range wireless communication interfaces permit the two-way dispensing system controller 114 to obtain data from a user identifier (e.g., a key fob, card, medallion, or the like) and / or vehicle information (e.g., repair, maintenance, and similar diagnostic information) from the user's vehicle 140.

[0063] The bidirectional distribution system controller 114 can provide operational or maintenance information to the backend system 160, thereby enabling autonomous repair / replacement scheduling capabilities. For example, the bidirectional distribution system controller 114 can transmit data indicating a faulty charging module, power converter, or portable energy storage 120 to the backend system 160. In certain embodiments, the backend system 160 can perform limited troubleshooting of identified faulty bidirectional distribution, charging, and vending system 110 components. For example, the backend system 160 can restart or otherwise reactivate the bidirectional distribution system controller 114 and / or one or more identified faulty components. In another example, the bidirectional distribution system controller 114 can transmit data indicating operational, maintenance, and / or fault conditions (e.g., in the form of fault codes, QR codes, temperatures, operating current, operating voltage, and the like) to the backend system 160, thereby enabling timely dispatch of repair personnel to the bidirectional distribution system 110. In certain embodiments, the backend system 160 can selectively disable faulty bidirectional distribution system components to maintain other functional components in a stable operating state. For example, the two-way distribution system controller 114 and / or the backend system 160 may disconnect a charging module 112a experiencing a high current fault condition from the power distribution network within the two-way distribution, charging, and vending system 110 to permit operation of other functional charging modules 112b to 112n.

[0064] In some instances, the backend system 160 may maintain data indicating a subscription plan associated with each of the respective users 130a through 130n. In these instances, the two-way dispensing system controller 114 reads user identification data associated with the portable energy storage device 120 from the second portion of the non-transitory storage medium 122 carried by each of the portable energy storage devices 120 and transmits at least some of the read data to the backend system 160. The backend system 160 verifies or otherwise confirms the user identification data provided by the two-way dispensing system controller 114. The backend system 160 transmits data indicating a successful or unsuccessful verification of the user identification information to the two-way dispensing system controller 114. In response to receiving the data indicating a successful verification, the two-way dispensing system controller 114 may cause the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 to discharge or otherwise dispense one or more portable energy storage devices 120 to the respective user 130.

[0065] Sometimes, the backend system 160 may periodically publish or "push" data indicating that a user has an account in good standing (e.g., currently paid, prepaid, showing a balance of zero outstanding) and / or data indicating that a user has an account that is not in good standing (e.g., delinquent, unpaid, or showing a balance outstanding in the past) to the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending systems 110. This user account data may be maintained locally in each two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 in a respective non-transitory storage. Sometimes, the backend system 160 may maintain a database or data store containing data indicating user account information in non-transitory storage remote from the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending systems 110. This user account information may be transmitted by the backend system 160 to some or all of the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending systems 110 intermittently, periodically, or continuously.

[0066] The portable energy storage 120 may include any current or future developed system, device, or combination of systems and devices capable of storing or generating energy in the form of an electric charge. Exemplary portable energy storage 120 may include, but is not limited to, secondary (i.e., rechargeable) batteries having any current or future developed battery chemistry, ultracapacitors, supercapacitors, and the like. Illustrative portable energy storage 120 include, but are not limited to, lead / acid batteries, nickel / cadmium batteries, lithium-ion batteries, and similar rechargeable battery types. Each portable energy storage 120 is contained within an elastic housing, enclosure, or shell that includes a number of externally accessible electrical contacts for discharging and charging the respective portable energy storage 120. In some instances, one or more phase change materials may be integrated into the portable energy storage 120 to provide thermal management capabilities.

[0067] Each portable energy storage device 120 may include a housing, enclosure, or casing having one or more ergonomic features to facilitate transport of the portable energy storage device 120 and insertion and removal of the portable energy storage device 120 from the bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system 110. For example, each portable energy storage device 120 may include a tab, knob, or handle to facilitate insertion and removal of the portable energy storage device 120 from the vehicle 140 and / or the charging module 112 in the bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system 110. Each of the portable energy storage devices 120 may have the same or different charge capacities. Each of the portable energy storage devices 120 may have the same or different energy discharge characteristics. One characteristic shared by each of the portable energy storage devices 120 is the retention of data indicating a manufacturer-specific identifier in a first portion of the non-transitory storage medium 122 carried by each of the portable energy storage devices 120.

[0068] In some embodiments, immediately after receiving a portable energy storage device 120 at one of the charging modules 112, the bidirectional distribution system controller 114 authenticates the manufacturer identifier stored in the non-transitory storage medium 122 carried by the portable energy storage device 120 before charging the portable energy storage device 120. In some examples, the bidirectional distribution system controller 114 may provide a message via the user interface 116 immediately after a failure to authenticate the manufacturer identifier stored in the non-transitory storage medium 122 of a portable energy storage device 120 received from a charging module 112.

[0069] Figure 2A According to an illustrative embodiment, Figure 1 An external perspective view of an exemplary two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 is shown in FIG. Figure 2A The bidirectional distribution, charging and vending system 110 shown in FIG. 1 is coupled to a plurality of additional charging modules 112 ( Figure 2A 112e through 112h, a greater or lesser number may be provided) to an expansion module 210 of the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110. It should be understood that each two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 may include any number of charging modules 112 and each two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 may have the same or a different number of charging modules 112.

[0070] Figure 2A Also visible is the outer housing 202 and the gasket 204 surrounding each of the charging modules 112 to provide a weatherproof seal between the housing 202 and the charging modules 112. The occupied charging modules 214 each contain a single portable electrical energy storage 120.

[0071] At least a portion of the power consumed by the bidirectional distribution, charging, and vending system 110 for controlling, operating, and / or charging the portable electrical energy storage 120 can be provided to a power supply, such as a regional power distribution grid, via one or more connections 220. In certain embodiments, alternatively or additionally, at least a portion of the power consumed by the bidirectional distribution, charging, and vending system 110 for controlling, operating, and / or charging the portable electrical energy storage 120 can be provided via one or more renewable energy sources. For example, one or more solar cell arrays 230 can be conductively coupled to the bidirectional distribution, charging, and vending system 110.

[0072] In some instances, the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 may include one or more biometric sensors 206. These biometric sensors 206 may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: a visible or infrared still or video camera, a proximity detector, an ultrasonic transducer, or any other sensor, system, or combination of sensors and systems capable of detecting one or more biometric characteristics of a user 130 present at the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110. These biometric sensors 206 may provide various input signals to the at least one two-way dispensing system controller 114. In response to receiving the signals provided by the biometric sensors 206, the at least one two-way dispensing system controller 114 may select a specific charged portable energy storage 120 to release to the user 130 based at least in part on the data provided by the biometric sensor signals. Thus, for example, if the detected height of the user 130 is below a defined height threshold (e.g., less than 152 cm or approximately 5 feet), the at least one two-way dispensing system controller 114 may release a portable electrical energy storage 120 from the lower portion of the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110.

[0073] Figure 2B and Figure 2C According to an illustrative embodiment, Figure 1 and Figure 2A , a perspective view of the interior of an exemplary two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 is shown in FIG. 1 , wherein a portion of the outer housing 202 is pivotally displaceable to expose the internal structure of the two-way dispensing system 110 .

[0074] Figure 2BA perspective view of the interior of a two-way dispensing, charging and vending system 110 is shown, wherein charging modules 112a-112c are installed in respective "buckets" or partitions 230a-230c within the two-way dispensing system 110 and one "bucket" or partition 230d within the two-way dispensing system 110 remains empty. In certain embodiments, the individual charging modules 112 have a modular construction that facilitates slidable insertion and slidable removal of the charging modules 112 from a bucket 230. This modular construction advantageously facilitates the removal and replacement of an entire charging module 112 without requiring a lengthy and time-consuming rewrite of power, controls and / or communications to the newly inserted charging module 112. This modular construction can facilitate tool-free or tool-less insertion and tool-free or tool-less removal of a charging module 112 from a bucket 230. Each of the charging modules 112 includes a mechanical locking device ( Figure 2B or Figure 2C The mechanical locking device also includes a number of electrical contacts or electrodes corresponding to and conductively coupled to a number of complementary externally accessible electrical contacts on the portable electrical energy storage 120 ( Figure 2B or Figure 2C It is also not visible). Figures 3A to 3E These and other features that advantageously facilitate replacement of the charging module 112 will be discussed in detail in FIG.

[0075] Figure 2C A perspective view of the interior of a two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 is shown, wherein a portable energy storage device 120b has been received in a charging module 112b disposed in a bucket 230b of the two-way dispensing system 110. A first charging module 112a disposed in bucket 230a is empty and has not yet received a portable energy storage device 120. Figure 2C Also visible are exposed handles on the portable energy storage 120b that allow a user to insert and remove the portable energy storage 120b from a charging module 112b.

[0076] Figure 2D A plan view of the bottom surface of an exemplary portable energy storage device 120 is shown, illustrating an exemplary locking connector and electrical coupling assembly 240. The locking connector and electrical coupling assembly 240 includes a corresponding complementary locking member (see FIG. 1 ) that each receives the portable energy storage device 120 when the charging module 112 receives the portable energy storage device 120. Figure 2E ) of a plurality of cavities 242a to 242d (four are shown, a larger or smaller number is possible—collectively referred to as “cavities 242”).

[0077] Assembly 240 further includes a number of electrical contacts (two shown as 244 and 246, although other numbers are possible) located within recesses on portable energy storage 120. Electrical contacts 244 and 246 are electrically isolated from charging module 112 and from each other. Although radially positioned, electrical contacts 244 and 246 can be located in any similar recess on portable energy storage 120. Example recesses include recesses that can have any concentric shape or configuration, such as concentric triangular recesses, square recesses, rounded square recesses, polygonal recesses, or rounded polygonal recesses.

[0078] Figure 2E FIG2 is a perspective view of an exemplary complementary locking hub and electrical contact assembly 250 disposed in each of the charging modules 112. The locking hub and electrical contact assembly 250 includes a rotatable locking hub 252 having a plurality of locking members 253a to 253d (four shown, a greater or lesser number is possible—collectively referred to as “locking members 253”) that are each received in a corresponding one of the cavities 242a to 242d when the portable energy storage device 120 is received by the charging module 112. By rotating the locking hub 252, each of the locking members 253 engages an edge of a respective one of the recesses 242, thereby preventing the portable energy storage device 120 from being removed from the charging module 112. The locking hub and electrical contact assembly 250 also includes a plurality of electrical contacts (two shown, 254 and 256, other numbers are possible).

[0079] Generally speaking, the electrical contacts 254, 256 are concentrically disposed within the locking hub 252 along an axis orthogonal to the center of the locking hub 252. The electrical contacts 254, 256 are electrically isolated from the charging module 112 and from each other. Figure 2E 254 and 256 are depicted as radially concentric circular objects, but the electrical contacts 254 and 256 can have any concentric shape or configuration, such as concentric triangles, squares, rounded squares, polygons, and / or rounded polygons. When the charging module 112 receives the portable energy storage 120, the electrical contacts 254 and 256 fit into complementary openings on the portable energy storage 120, thereby providing an electrical continuity path between the power distribution network and the portable energy storage 120 in the bidirectional distribution, charging, and vending system 110. Advantageously, the concentric placement of the locking hub 252 and the electrical contacts 254 and 256 allows the portable energy storage 120 to be inserted into the charging module 112 without requiring the user to specifically orient the portable energy storage 120.

[0080] Figure 2FAccording to an illustrated embodiment, a modular power converter 260 is shown that is conductively coupled to at least one charging module 112. The modular power converter 260 is configured to provide DC power to a portable energy storage device 120 received by the charging module 112. The modular power converter 260 includes one or more modular interfaces 262 ( Figure 2F The one or more modular interfaces 262 include one or more inputs for receiving power (e.g., alternating current, or AC power) from a power distribution grid within the bidirectional distribution system 110. The one or more modular interfaces include one or more outputs for providing power (e.g., direct current, or DC power) to a conductively coupled charging module 112. Additionally, the modular power converter 260 may include one or more wired or wireless communication interfaces for bidirectionally communicatively coupling to one or more bidirectional distribution system controllers 114.

[0081] The physical configuration of the modular power converter 260 and the one or more modular interfaces 262 permits slidable physical insertion and slidable physical removal of the modular power converter 260 into and from the bidirectional distribution system 110. This configuration advantageously enables rapid field replacement of a failed modular power converter 260 without requiring field repair of the failed modular power converter 260. In some instances, the modular power converter 260 may include one or more ergonomic handles or other features to facilitate insertion and / or removal of the modular power converter 260 from the barrel 230.

[0082] In certain embodiments, the bidirectional distribution system controller 114 monitors one or more aspects of the performance of each modular power converter 260 installed in the bidirectional distribution system 110. In certain embodiments, in addition to monitoring the one or more aspects of each modular power converter 260, the bidirectional distribution system controller 114 also controls one or more output aspects of the current supplied by the modular power converter 260 to the portable electrical energy storage 120. For example, the bidirectional distribution system controller 114 can control the flow of current to the portable electrical energy storage 120 to maintain the temperature of the portable electrical energy storage 120 within a defined range during charging. In another example, the bidirectional distribution system controller 114 can coordinate the power consumption of multiple modular power converters 260 by adjusting the output current provided by each of the modular power converters 260 based on the charge level of the electrically coupled portable electrical energy storage 120. Thus, as the charge level increases, the bidirectional distribution system controller 114 can permit a higher current output from the modular power converters 260 electrically coupled to the portable energy storage devices 120 that are in a lower state of charge and flowing proportionally less current to those portable energy storage devices 120. In some instances, the bidirectional distribution system controller 114 can notify the backend system 160 in response to detecting a failure in one or more of the modular power converters 260.

[0083] Figures 3A to 3E An exemplary charging module 112 is shown according to one illustrated embodiment. Figure 3A A perspective view of an exemplary charging module 112 is shown. Figure 3B Draw Figure 3A A plan view of the top of an exemplary charging module 112 in FIG. Figure 3C Draw Figure 3A The exemplary charging module 112 in Figure 3B A sectional elevation view along section line 3C-3C in FIG. Figure 3D Draw Figure 3A The exemplary charging module 112 in Figure 3B A sectional elevation view along section line 3D-3D. Figure 3E Draw Figure 3A A plan view of the base of the exemplary charging module 112 in FIG.

[0084] The charging module 112 includes a housing 302 disposed about a longitudinal axis 303 to form an interior space 306. The charging module 112 further includes a base 304 approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 303 and physically attached to a first end of the housing 302. The charging module 112 includes an access port 310 approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 303 and physically attached to the housing 302. The access port 310 includes an aperture 312 through which the interior space 306 defined by the housing 302 is accessed. A housing door 320, displaceable along the longitudinal axis 303, covers or otherwise blocks at least a portion of the aperture 312. An aperture 330 having any shape or configuration centered on the longitudinal axis 303 (e.g., diamond, square, circular, oval) penetrates the housing door 320. One or more surface features 308 (e.g., detents, grooves, channels) may be formed on one or more exterior surfaces of the housing 302. In various embodiments, one or more recesses, detents, slots, or grooves 308 may align the charging module 112 with the bucket 230 in the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 , thereby facilitating slidable insertion of the charging module 112 into the bucket 230 .

[0085] Now refer to Figure 3C The housing door 320 is shown in two positions: a first position 320 proximate to the inlet 310 and a second position 320' proximate to the base 304. When the charging module 112 is inserted into a bucket 230 and the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system housing 202 is closed, the gasket 204 forms a weatherproof seal around the aperture 312. With a portable energy storage device 120 in the charging module 112, biasing members 350 bias the housing door to the first position proximate to the inlet 310. When the housing door 320 is in the first position, a displaceable cover 360 blocks the aperture 330.

[0086] Figure 3C306 and is centered along the longitudinal axis 303 of the housing 302. The rotatable locking hub 252 is operatively coupled to an actuator 340 via one or more linking members 342. In some instances, the actuator 340 may be a maintained position type actuator that remains in a most recent position before receiving a signal from the actuator 340 to move to a new position. In some instances, the actuator 340 may be spring-loaded or otherwise biased to a position after the energy source is removed from the actuator 340. In at least one embodiment, the actuator 340 is biased to a position in which the locking member 253 on the rotatable locking hub 252 engages a corresponding cavity 242 on a portable electrical energy storage device 120 inserted into the interior space of the charging module 112. In other examples, the actuator can linearly translate the locking hub 252 to engage the corresponding cavity 242 on the portable energy storage 120. For example, the actuator 340 can linearly displace a rod-type locking hub member into a corresponding cavity 242 on the portable energy storage 120.

[0087] When inserted into the interior space 306 of the charging module 112, a portable energy storage device 120 uses the insertion force of the portable energy storage device 120 to displace the housing door 320 along the longitudinal axis 303 of the housing 302. Figure 3D In some examples, the displaceable cover 360 may have one or more shaft members 362 that slide along a serpentine slot 352 formed in, along, or through at least one wall of the interior space 306. When the housing door 320 is displaced along the longitudinal axis 303, the shaft 362 travels along the serpentine slot 352, thereby moving the displaceable cover 360 away from the aperture 330 and thereby opening the aperture 330. This allows the locking hub and electrical contact assembly 250 to at least partially pass through the aperture 330 when the housing door 320 is in the second position.

[0088] When the housing door 320 is in the second position, the locking hub and electrical contact assembly 250 permits electrical contact between the electrical contacts 254, 256 providing power from the modular power converter 260 and the electrical contacts 244, 246 positioned in the recess 242 on the portable electrical energy storage 120 through the aperture 330. This permits the modular power converter 260 to provide energy to charge the portable electrical energy storage 120. When the portable electrical energy storage 120 is removed from the charging module 112, the biasing member 350 causes the housing door 320 to move from the second position to the first position. As the housing door 320 moves along the longitudinal axis 303 from the second position to the first position, the shaft 362 coupled to the displaceable cover 360 moves along the serpentine slot 352, thereby moving the displaceable cover 360 toward the aperture 330 and thereby blocking the aperture 330 when the housing door 320 is in the first position.

[0089] Now refer to Figure 3D and Figure 3E A modular electrical interface 360 ​​is disposed on an exterior portion of the base 304. The modular electrical interface 360 ​​facilitates the flow of power from the output of the modular power converter 260 to the electrical contacts 254, 256. In some embodiments, the modular electrical interface 360 ​​further provides for bidirectional flow of signals between the charging module 112 and the at least one bidirectional dispensing system controller 114. The modular electrical interface advantageously permits slidable insertion and removal of the charging module 112 into the drum 230 without requiring manual connections or power coupling or signal wiring.

[0090] Figure 4A high-level flow chart illustrating an exemplary method 400 for operating a bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 for providing portable energy storage 120 according to a non-limiting illustrated embodiment is shown. A manufacturer of a vehicle 140 powered by the portable energy storage 120 may also provide the portable energy storage 120. The portable energy storage 120 may also be provided by a party that does not manufacture the vehicle but distributes the portable energy storage. For safety and operational reasons, the manufacturer may impose strict manufacturing and quality control on the portable energy storage 120 to optimize vehicle performance, maximize vehicle life, and / or enhance vehicle operator safety. The manufacturer may choose to improve the widespread public acceptance of electric vehicles by providing the bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 at convenient locations throughout a geographic area (e.g., a city, county, state, or country). At these two-way dispensing, charging, and vending systems 110, vehicle operators who have subscribed to a portable energy storage exchange program can exchange a discharged portable energy storage 120 for a more fully charged portable energy storage 120. By supporting this exchange, manufacturers can alleviate public concerns about being stranded and without power in remote locations, thereby increasing public acceptance of eco-friendly electric vehicle technology. Method 400 of operating a two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 for providing portable energy storage 120 begins at 402.

[0091] At 404, a first portable energy storage device 120a is at least partially received by a first charging module 112a. For example, a user 130 may remove an at least partially discharged first portable energy storage device 120a from a vehicle 140. The user 130 inserts the at least partially discharged first portable energy storage device 120a into an empty first charging module 112a in the bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system 110.

[0092] At 406, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 reads data from a non-transitory storage medium 122a carried by the at least partially discharged first portable energy storage 120a. In some examples, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 reads data from the non-transitory storage medium 122a wirelessly, for example, using near field communication, frequency identification (RFID), or

[0093] At 408, at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 authenticates a first portion of data read from the non-transitory storage medium 122a carried by the at least partially discharged first portable energy storage 120a to confirm that the portable energy storage 120a is authorized by the vehicle manufacturer. In some examples, the first portion of data may include data stored or otherwise retained in an immutable portion of the non-transitory storage medium 122a carried by the portable energy storage 120a. In some examples, the first portion of data may include a manufacturer identifier that is encrypted, encoded, or otherwise protected.

[0094] In some examples, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 can locally authenticate a first portion of the data read from the non-transitory storage medium 122a carried by the portable energy storage device 120a. For example, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 can compare all or a portion of the data read from the non-transitory storage medium 122a to a known authentication code provided by the manufacturer and stored on a non-transitory storage medium that is readable by the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114.

[0095] In other examples, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 can remotely authenticate the first portion of data read from the non-transitory storage medium 122a carried by the portable energy storage device 120a. For example, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 can transmit at least a portion of the first portion of the data, including the manufacturer identifier, to a backend system 160. The backend system 160 can compare the first portion of the data read from the non-transitory storage medium 122a with a known authenticated manufacturer identifier provided by the manufacturer and stored in a non-transitory storage medium readable by the backend system 160. The backend system 160 can then transmit a message to the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 indicating the result of authenticating the manufacturer identifier read from the non-transitory storage medium 122a.

[0096] At 410, at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 verifies a second portion of the data read from the non-transitory storage medium 122a carried by the first portable energy storage device 120a, which is at least partially discharged, to confirm the validity of the subscription of the user 130 returned to the portable energy storage device 120a. In some examples, the second portion of the data may include data stored or otherwise retained in a rewritable portion of the non-transitory storage medium 122a carried by the portable energy storage device 120a. In some examples, the second portion of the data may uniquely identify a specific user 130.

[0097] In some examples, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 may locally verify the user identifier contained in the second portion of the data read from the non-transitory storage medium 122a carried by the free portable energy storage device 120a. For example, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 may compare all or a portion of the user identifier read from the second portion of the non-transitory storage medium 122a to an entry in a database or data store indicating all known valid user identifiers. In some examples, the backend system 160 may periodically, intermittently, or sporadically transmit all or a portion of the database or data store indicating all known valid user identifiers to the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114. In some embodiments, such a database or data store may include data indicating a "white list" (i.e., a list of users with accounts in good standing), a "black list" (i.e., a list of users with accounts not in good standing), or any combination thereof.

[0098] In other examples, the at least one bidirectional dispensing system controller 114 can remotely authenticate the user identifier contained in the second portion of the data read from the non-transitory storage medium 122a. For example, the at least one bidirectional dispensing system controller 114 can transmit at least a portion of the user identifier contained in the second portion of the data to the backend system 160. The backend system 160 can compare the user identifier to an entry in a database or data storage area indicating all known valid user identifiers. The backend system 160 can then transmit a message to the at least one bidirectional dispensing system controller 114 indicating the result of the verification of the user identifier contained in the second portion of the data read from the non-transitory storage medium 122a.

[0099] If the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 determines that the user's account is not in good standing, a message may be displayed on the display 116, a handheld device logically associated with the user, or both. The message may require the user 130 to bring their account into "good standing" condition before dispensing a charged portable energy storage device 120. In some instances, the user 130 may provide an electronic payment (e.g., a credit or debit card) using an input device (e.g., a magnetic stripe reader) on the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 or a portable wireless device such as a smartphone. In some instances, the user 130 may authorize the backend system 160 to debit or credit a previously provisioned (i.e., "on file") debit or credit card to bring the user's account into good standing by providing an input to the backend system 160 via a kiosk or via a portable wireless device such as a smartphone.

[0100] In the case where the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 locally verifies the user's account status, upon successfully processing the payment, the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 may immediately update the user information in the non-transitory storage medium to reflect the received payment and the updated account standing. This updated user account information may be pushed to or pulled by the backend system 160 immediately or at one or more defined intervals. In the case where remote verification is used, the backend system 160 may immediately update the user information to reflect the user's revised account standing upon successful completion of the payment and may push data indicating the respective user's account standing to the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110. At times, the backend system 160 and / or the two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 may provide information to a respective user 130 based on the user's account status. For example, a user 130 having an account that is not in good standing may be provided with a message via display device 116 inquiring whether the user wants to change their payment method to an automatic payment method (such as a recurring automatic debit payment via a deposit account or via a credit or debit card payment).

[0101] The bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 may communicate with the portable energy storage device 120 and / or the user's vehicle 140 before dispensing the portable energy storage device 120 to a user 130. For example, such communication may include instructions that are at least partially executable by a security or other controller carried by the dispensed portable energy storage device 120. For example, such communication may include instructions that are at least partially executable by one or more controllers on or carried by the user's vehicle 140.

[0102] In one embodiment, a user 130 logically associated with a user account that is not in good standing may arrive at a two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 with a depleted battery, only to discover that a charged portable energy storage device 120 is unavailable due, at least in part, to the user's account status. Rather than leaving the user 130 stranded, in certain embodiments, the at least one two-way dispensing system controller 114 may transmit instructions to a charged portable energy storage device 120. In certain instances, the instructions provided by the at least one two-way dispensing system controller 114 may limit the energy discharge rate of the dispensed portable energy storage device 120 to a defined value that is less than a maximum energy discharge rate achievable by the portable energy storage device 120. Limiting the energy discharge rate of the portable energy storage device 120 effectively limits the speed of the user's vehicle 140 until the user 130 brings their account into good standing.

[0103] In another example, instructions provided by at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 may limit or otherwise cap the energy available to a user's vehicle 140. For example, the instructions may limit the energy available from the portable electrical energy storage 120 to a defined percentage of the total energy (i.e., charge) stored in the portable electrical energy storage 120. For example, a portable electrical energy storage 120 having a stored energy level of 1 kilowatt-hour (kWh) may be limited to 50% availability (i.e., 500 watts-hours) when dispensing to a user associated with a user account that is not in good standing. Portable electrical energy storage 120 with these energy availability limits may cease delivering energy to the user's vehicle 140 shortly after the defined energy availability limit is reached.

[0104] In another example, the energy availability quota or limit in a portable energy storage device 120 dispensed by the bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 may be based on one or more external factors. Sometimes, the energy availability quota in the portable energy storage device 120 may be based in whole or in part on the distance between the bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 and a defined geographic point. For example, the bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 may dispense a portable energy storage device 120 with an energy availability quota sufficient for the respective user 130 to reach a defined location (e.g., home, workplace) when the user account logically associated with the respective user 130 is not in good standing. Sometimes, additionally or alternatively, at least one bidirectional dispensing system controller 114 may communicate with a controller carried by the user vehicle 140 when the user account logically associated with the respective user 130 is not in good standing. Sometimes, this communication between the bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 and the user vehicle 140 may be performed wirelessly. At other times, such communication may be performed via one or more intermediary devices exchanged between the bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 and the user vehicle 140 (e.g., via non-transitory storage media 122 carried by a portable electrical energy storage device 120 discharged by the bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system 110). Communication between at least one bidirectional dispensing system controller 114 and the user vehicle 140 may limit or modify the performance of one or more vehicle systems when the user account logically associated with the user 130 is not in good standing. In one embodiment, such communication may cause one or more vehicle systems (e.g., lights, horn) to erratically or spontaneously function as a means of indicating that the user account logically associated with the user 130 is not in good standing. These modified vehicle systems may remain in a modified state for a defined period, for example, until the user account is brought into good standing.

[0105] Importantly, the authentication and verification procedures are unrelated. Authentication at 408 ensures that the portable energy storage device 120a is a manufacturer-approved device by comparing it to a manufacturer identifier stored in the first portion of the non-transitory storage medium 122a carried by the portable energy storage device 120a. Verification at 410 ensures that the subscription logically associated with the user identifier carried on the non-transitory storage medium 122a inserted into the portable energy storage device 120a is valid. Furthermore, verification at 410 provides guidance to the bidirectional distribution, charging, and vending system 110 regarding the number, type, and performance of the charged portable energy storage devices 120b to 120n to be dispensed to the user based on the subscription logically associated with the user identifier.

[0106] At 412, in response to a successful authentication at 408 and a successful verification at 410, the bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 writes the second portion of the data read from the first portable energy storage 120a (including the user identifier) ​​to a non-transitory storage medium 122b carried by a second charged portable energy storage 120b. Recall that the manufacturer-specific identifier is stored or retained in an immutable or non-overwritable first portion of the non-transitory storage medium 122b carried by the charged portable energy storage 120b. Therefore, after writing the user identifier to the second portion of the non-transitory storage medium 122b, the first portion of the non-transitory storage medium 122b will contain data indicating the manufacturer identifier and the second portion of the non-transitory storage medium 122b will contain data indicating the user identifier.

[0107] At 414, in response to successfully authenticating the manufacturer identifier at 408 and successfully verifying the user identifier at 410, at least one bidirectional dispensing system controller 114 allows removal of the charged portable energy storage 120b from the bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system 110. The method 400 of operating a bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 for providing a portable energy storage 120 begins at 402.

[0108] Figure 5A high-level flow chart of an exemplary method 500 of operating a bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 for providing a portable energy storage device 120 is shown according to a non-limiting illustrated embodiment. The locking hub 252 locks the portable energy storage device 120 into the charging module 112. In some instances, the locking hub 252 is biased toward a first (locked) position and can be overcome by inserting the portable energy storage device 120 into the charging module 112. In these instances, the portable energy storage device 120 is locked into the charging module 112 immediately after insertion. In other instances, the locking hub is biased toward a second (unlocked) position and can therefore permit removal of the portable energy storage device 120 from the charging module 112 until such time as the locking hub 252 is rotated to the first (locked) position. The method 500 of locking an at least partially discharged first portable energy storage 120a into a first charging module 112a immediately upon insertion and unlocking a charged second portable energy storage 120b from a second charging module 112b immediately upon successful authentication of a manufacturer identifier and successful verification of a user identifier begins at 502 .

[0109] At 504, a first of the plurality of charging modules 112a receives the first portable energy storage device 120. When the first portable energy storage device 120 is inserted into the first charging module 112a, the locking boss 252 in the first charging module 112a engages the cavity 242 on the first portable energy storage device 120a, thereby securely locking the first portable energy storage device 120 into the first charging module 112a.

[0110] In some examples, the locking hub 252 is biased toward the first (locked) position using one or more biasing members, such as a helical coil spring or the like. In these examples, insertion of the first portable energy storage device 120a causes a temporary rotational displacement of the locking hub 252 from the first position until the first portable energy storage device 120a is seated in the charging module 112 and the locking hub is rotationally biased back to the first (locked) position.

[0111] In other examples, the actuator 340 rotates the locking hub 252 from the first (locked) position to the second (unlocked) position until the first portable energy storage device 120a is seated in the first charging module 112a. After the first portable energy storage device 120a is seated in the first charging module 112a, the actuator can rotate the locking hub 252 from the second (unlocked) position to the first (locked) position, thereby securing the first portable energy storage device 120a in the first charging module 112a.

[0112] After securing the first portable energy storage device 120a in the first charging module 112a, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 authenticates the manufacturer identifier stored or otherwise retained in the non-transitory storage medium 122a carried by the first portable energy storage device 120a and verifies the user identifier in the non-transitory storage medium 122a.

[0113] At 506, in response to the successful authentication of the manufacturer identifier stored or otherwise retained in the non-transitory storage medium 122a carried by the first portable energy storage device 120a and the successful verification of the user identifier in the non-transitory storage medium 122a, the at least one two-way dispensing system controller 114 writes the user identifier to the non-transitory storage medium 122b carried by a second of the plurality of charging modules 112b. The at least one two-way dispensing system controller 114 then causes the locking hub in the second charging module 112b to rotate from a first (locked) position to a second (unlocked) position, thereby permitting removal of the second portable energy storage device 120b from the second charging module 112b. The method 500 of locking the at least partially discharged first portable energy storage 120a into the first charging module 112a immediately after insertion and unlocking the charged second portable energy storage 120b from a second charging module 112b after successful authentication of the manufacturer identifier and successful verification of the user identifier ends at 508 .

[0114] Figure 6 A high-level flow chart illustrates an exemplary method 600 for a two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 to provide vehicle-specific information to a user 130 immediately after receiving a portable energy storage device 120 from the user 130, according to a non-limiting, illustrated embodiment. In certain embodiments, the non-transitory storage medium 122 carried by the portable energy storage device 120 may store information in the form of data indicating one or more operating conditions of the vehicle 140 in which the portable energy storage device 120 was most recently used. This data may include, but is not limited to, repair information, maintenance information, operational information, and the like. The vehicle-specific information may be presented to the user 130 via the user interface 116 in an audio, video, or audio / visual format. The method 600 for a two-way dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 to provide vehicle-specific information to a user 130 immediately after receiving a portable energy storage device 120 from the user 130 begins at 602.

[0115] At 604, in response to receiving the first discharged portable energy storage device 120a in the first of the plurality of charging modules 112a, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 reads data from the non-transitory storage medium 122a carried by the portable energy storage device 120a. In some instances, in addition to the manufacturer identifier and the user identifier, the non-transitory storage medium 122a may also contain vehicle-specific information in the form of data indicating one or more operating conditions of the vehicle 140 of the user from whom the portable energy storage device 120a was recently removed. This vehicle-specific information may include, but is not limited to: information regarding current service, maintenance, repair, or replacement that should be performed on the vehicle; vehicle recall information; anticipated future service, maintenance, repair, or replacement that should be performed on the vehicle based on observed driving conditions and driving style; and the like.

[0116] At 606, in response to obtaining the vehicle-specific information, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 generates an output perceivable by the user 130. This output may include information presented in an audio format, a video format, a still image format, and / or an audio / visual format. For example, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 may generate a video format display on the user interface 116 in response to the vehicle data captured by the non-transitory storage medium 122a carried by the portable power storage device 120a.

[0117] At 608, at least one bidirectional dispensing system controller 114 erases the vehicle-specific data from the non-transitory storage medium 122a carried by the portable energy storage device 120a. The method 600 for providing vehicle-specific information to a user 130 by a bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 immediately after receiving a portable energy storage device 120 from the user 130 ends at 610.

[0118] Figure 7 A high-level flow chart illustrates an exemplary method for verifying a user identifier read by at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 from a second portion of a non-transitory storage medium 122a carried by a first portable energy storage device 120a, according to an illustrated embodiment. Vehicle manufacturers may offer exchange portable energy storage devices 120 via a subscription plan that may include one or more levels. For example, the subscription plan may be in the form of a limited number of exchanges within a given timeframe (one exchange per day, five exchanges per week, thirty exchanges per month, etc.).

[0119] In another example, the subscription plan may be in the form of several portable energy storage devices 120 available to the user at one time. Certain vehicles 140 may have the ability to use more than one portable energy storage device 120 at a time - in these instances, the user will likely want to exchange portable energy storage devices in pairs rather than individually.

[0120] In another example, the subscription plan may be in the form of vehicle performance (a "range" plan, a "performance" plan, etc.) In these examples, different portable energy storage devices 120 may have different characteristics tailored for a particular subscription plan.

[0121] Thus, upon receiving a portable energy storage device 120, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 immediately retrieves a user identifier from the non-transitory storage medium 122a carried by the portable energy storage device 120a. Using the retrieved user identifier, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 can both verify the user account (i.e., whether the account is currently paid) and confirm any special subscription services and / or subscription levels. The method for verifying a user identifier read by the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 from the second portion of the non-transitory storage medium 122a carried by a first portable energy storage device 120a begins at 702.

[0122] At 704, at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 transmits the user identifier read from the second portion of the non-transitory storage medium 122a carried by the free portable energy storage 120a to a backend system 160. The data may be transmitted over or across any number or type of networks including plain old telephone service (POTS) wired connections, wireless networks, wired networks, the Internet, or combinations thereof. In some instances, the user identifier may be transmitted in an encrypted or otherwise protected format.

[0123] At 706, the backend system 160 verifies the user identifier provided by the at least one two-way dispensing system controller 114. In some examples, the backend system 160 performs this verification by decrypting (if necessary) the user identifier provided by the at least one two-way dispensing system controller 114 and comparing the user identifier to a list of known valid user identifiers. The list of known valid user identifiers may be stored, maintained, or otherwise maintained in a data store or database on one or more backend system-readable non-transitory storage media.

[0124] Optionally, the backend system 160 may look up or otherwise determine a subscription plan logically associated with the received user identifier. In some instances, the subscription plan information may be stored, maintained, or otherwise maintained along with the valid user identifier in a data store or database on one or more backend system-readable non-transitory storage media.

[0125] At 708, the backend system 160 transmits data indicating the success or failure of user authentication to the at least one two-way distribution system controller 114. The data indicating the success or failure of user authentication includes at least one indicator of the validity of a subscription logically associated with the user identifier read from the portable energy storage 120a. In some cases, the data indicating the success or failure of user authentication may include an indication of the number of charged portable energy storages 120 that the at least one two-way distribution system controller 114 should release to the user. In some cases, the data indicating the success or failure of user authentication may include an indication of the type, model, or operating parameters of the charged portable energy storages 120 that the at least one two-way distribution system controller 114 should release to the user. The method for verifying a user identifier read by the at least one two-way distribution system controller 114 from the second portion of the non-transitory storage medium 122a carried by a first portable energy storage 120a ends at 710.

[0126] Figure 8 A high-level flow chart illustrates an exemplary method for evaluating a portable energy storage device 120a that has been received and charged under controlled thermal conditions, according to an illustrated embodiment. The at least partially discharged portable energy storage device 120a inserted into a first one of a plurality of charging modules 112a may contain one or more faults that could compromise the charge storage capacity or safety of the portable energy storage device 120a. To prevent potential faults in the portable energy storage device 120a during, after, and before charging the portable energy storage device 120a, at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 may determine the condition of the portable energy storage device 120a. In response to determining that the condition of the portable energy storage device 120a is acceptable for charging, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 may initiate charging of the portable energy storage device 120a. At least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 can control one or more charging conditions within a defined range during a charging process. The at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 can maintain and / or control conditions within the charging module 112, the portable electrical energy storage 120a, or both. The method of evaluating a portable electrical energy storage 120a that receives at least a partial discharge and charging the portable electrical energy storage 120a under controlled thermal conditions begins at 802.

[0127] At 804 , an at least partially discharged portable electrical energy storage 120 a is received in a first of a number of charging modules 112 a .

[0128] At 806, in response to receiving the first portable energy storage device 120a in the first charging module 112a, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 evaluates the condition of the received portable energy storage device 120a. This evaluation may consider the charge storage capacity of the portable energy storage device 120a, the presence of an internal or external electrical fault (e.g., a short circuit or an open circuit) in the portable energy storage device 120a, the number of charge cycles on the portable energy storage device 120a, and the like.

[0129] In some examples, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 compares the assessed condition of the portable energy storage 120a to defined, stored, acceptable values ​​and / or value ranges to determine the suitability of the portable energy storage 120a for charging. If the assessed condition falls outside the acceptable range, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 may isolate the first charging module 112a. Optionally, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 may transmit a message containing data indicating a faulty portable energy storage 120a to a backend system 160. This data may include identification and assessment results of the portable energy storage 120a, including an indication of a faulty assessment parameter.

[0130] At 808 , in response to a successful evaluation of the condition of the portable electrical energy storage 120 a , the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 initiates charging of the portable electrical energy storage 120 a .

[0131] At 810, concurrently with charging the portable electrical energy storage 120a, at least one bidirectional dispensing system controller 114 controls or maintains one or more charging conditions within a defined range during the charging process. In some instances, these conditions may be maintained or controlled by modifying the charging module (e.g., limiting the flow of current to the portable electrical energy storage 120a). In some instances, alternatively or additionally, these conditions may be maintained or controlled by modifying conditions within the bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system 110 (e.g., heating, cooling, and / or dehumidifying all or a portion of the interior of the bidirectional dispensing, charging, and vending system 110). In some instances, alternatively or additionally, these conditions may be maintained or controlled by modifying conditions within the portable electrical energy storage 120a (e.g., by using one or more phase change heat transfer materials within the portable electrical energy storage 120a).

[0132] Sometimes, environmental conditions within the bidirectional distribution, charging and vending system 110, the charging module 112, the portable energy storage 120, or a combination thereof may be controlled to optimize one or more operating aspects, such as rapidity of recharging, portable energy storage life, portable energy storage condition, or a combination thereof.

[0133] For example, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 maintains the temperature of a newly inserted at least partially discharged portable energy storage 120 above a defined first temperature for a first interval to increase the initial charging rate. After the first interval expires, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller 114 reduces the temperature of the at least partially discharged portable energy storage 120 to below a defined second temperature for the remaining duration of the charging cycle to maximize the life cycle of the portable energy storage 120.

[0134] The method of evaluating a portable electrical energy storage device 120 a receiving an at least partially discharged state and charging the portable electrical energy storage device 120 a under controlled thermal conditions ends at 812 .

[0135] The various methods described herein may include additional acts, omit certain acts, and / or perform the acts in an order different from the order set forth in the various flow charts.

[0136] The foregoing detailed description has described various embodiments of devices and / or programs using block diagrams, schematics, and examples. To the extent that these block diagrams, schematics, and examples contain one or more functions and / or operations, those skilled in the art will appreciate that each function and / or operation within these block diagrams, flowcharts, or examples can be implemented individually and / or collectively by a wide range of hardware, software, firmware, or nearly any combination thereof. In one embodiment, the subject matter of the present invention may be implemented via one or more microcontrollers. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments disclosed herein may be equivalently implemented in whole or in part in a standard integrated circuit (e.g., an application-specific integrated circuit or ASIC) as one or more computer programs executed by one or more computers (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more computer systems), as one or more programs executed by one or more controllers (e.g., microcontrollers), as one or more programs executed by one or more processors (e.g., microprocessors), as firmware, or nearly any combination thereof, and that designing circuits and / or writing code for the software and / or firmware will be well within the skill of those skilled in the art in view of the teachings of the present invention.

[0137] When logic is implemented as software and stored in memory, the logic or information may be stored on any non-transitory computer-readable medium for use by or with any processor-related system or method. In the context of the present invention, a memory is a non-transitory computer- or processor-readable storage medium that is an electronic, magnetic, optical, or other physical device or component that non-transitorily contains or stores a computer and / or processor program. The logic and / or information may be embodied in any computer-readable medium for use by or with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device (such as a computer-based system, a system containing a processor, or other system that can retrieve instructions from an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device and execute instructions associated with the logic and / or information).

[0138] In the context of this specification, a "computer-readable medium" may be any physical element that can store programs associated with logic and / or information for use by or with an instruction execution system, apparatus, and / or device. A computer-readable medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of computer-readable media would include the following: a portable computer disk (magnetic compact flash card, secure digital, or the like), a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM, EEPROM, or flash memory), a portable compact disc read-only memory (CDROM), and digital magnetic tape.

[0139] Various embodiments may be combined to provide other embodiments. To the extent they are not inconsistent with the specific teachings and definitions herein, all U.S. patents, U.S. patent application publications, U.S. patent applications, foreign patents, foreign patent applications, and non-patent publications referred to in this specification and / or listed in the application data sheet, including but not limited to: U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 601,949, filed February 22, 2012, entitled "DEVICES, METHODS, AND ARTICLES FOR PROVIDING LOCATIONS OF ELECTRICITY RESERVOIR COLLECTION, CHARGING, AND DISTRIBUTION MACHINES" (Agent Docket No. 170178.418P1); U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 511,900, filed July 26, 2011, entitled "DEVICES, METHODS, AND ARTICLES FOR COLLECTING, CHARGING, AND DISTRIBUTING ELECTRICITY RESERVOIRS, SUCH AS BATTERIES," (Agent Docket No. 170178.418P1); 170178.401P1); U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 511,887, filed on July 26, 2011, entitled “Thermal Management of Components in Electric Motor Driven Vehicles” (Attorney Docket No. 170178.406P1); U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 783,041, filed on March 14, 2013, entitled “Device, System, and Method for Authentication of Vehicle Components”; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 511,880, filed on July 26, 2011, entitled “Dynamically Limiting Vehicle Operation to Achieve Optimal Economy of Effort” (Attorney Docket No. 170178.407P1); each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Aspects of the embodiments can be modified, if desired, to employ systems, circuits, and concepts of the various patents, applications, and publications to provide further embodiments.

[0140] While generally discussed in the context of collection and distribution of portable electrical energy storage for use with vehicles such as all-electric scooters and / or motorcycles, the teachings herein are applicable in a wide variety of other environments, including other vehicular as well as non-vehicular environments.

[0141] The above description of the illustrated embodiments, including what is described in the Abstract, is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. While specific embodiments and examples are described for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, as those skilled in the art will recognize.

[0142] These and other changes can be made to the embodiments in light of the above detailed description. In general, in the following claims, the terms used should not be construed to limit the claims to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification and claims, but should be construed to encompass all possible embodiments and the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. Therefore, the claims are not limited by the present invention.

Claims

1. A portable electric energy storage charging and bidirectional distribution system, comprising: a housing comprising a power distribution network and a plurality of barrels, each of the plurality of barrels being capable of accommodating reversible selective insertion of a portable electrical energy storage charging module and a power converter module conductively coupled to the power distribution network and to the portable electrical energy storage charging module; a first communication interface wirelessly couplable to at least some of the plurality of portable energy storage devices inserted into each of the plurality of buckets and wirelessly couplable to one or more wireless credentials carried by a system user; a second communication interface communicatively coupled to at least one backend system; at least one non-transitory processor-readable storage medium storing at least one processor-executable instruction; and at least one bidirectional distribution system controller communicatively coupled to the at least one non-transitory processor-readable storage medium, the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller configured to execute the at least one processor-executable instruction and in response to: receiving, via the first communication interface, a first portion of data including manufacturer identifiers associated with the plurality of portable electrical energy storage devices and a second portion of the data indicating a user identifier uniquely identifying a user; locally authenticating the first portion of the data via the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller; transmitting the second portion of the received data indicative of the user identifier to the at least one backend system via the second communication interface; In response to the insertion of the plurality of portable electrical energy storage devices into the unoccupied portable electrical energy storage charging module, locking at least one inserted portable electrical energy storage device from the plurality of portable electrical energy storage devices into the portable electrical energy storage charging module; identifying a subscription plan logically associated with the user identifier, wherein the subscription plan is in the form of a specific number of portable energy storage devices that can be used by the user at one time; and In response to the successful authentication of the manufacturer identifier and the successful verification of the user identifier, the at least one portable electrical energy storage device authorized for charging for the user is unlocked from the corresponding number of occupied at least one portable electrical energy storage charging modules.

2. The portable energy storage charging and bidirectional distribution system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first communication interface bidirectionally transmits data with a communication interface carried by a vehicle powered by the portable energy storage and close to the portable energy storage charging system.

3. The portable energy storage charging and bidirectional distribution system as claimed in claim 2, wherein the first communication interface bidirectionally transmits vehicle-specific data with a communication interface carried by the vehicle powered by the portable energy storage near the portable energy storage charging system.

4. The portable electrical energy storage charging and bidirectional dispensing system of claim 1 , further comprising at least one biometric sensor communicatively coupled to the at least one bidirectional dispensing system controller, wherein the at least one bidirectional dispensing system controller executes the at least one processor-executable instruction and further: receiving data indicative of at least one biometric property of the user from the at least one biometric sensor; and In response to receiving the data indicative of the at least one user biometric property, at least one authorized charged portable energy storage device for the user is selectively unlocked from a corresponding number of at least one occupied portable energy storage device charging modules.

5. The portable energy storage charging and bidirectional distribution system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the portable energy storage charging module comprises: a housing sized to accommodate at least partial insertion of a portable electrical energy storage housing along a longitudinal axis of the housing into an interior space formed by a peripheral housing wall joined to a base; a plurality of electrical contacts protruding from the base at least partially into the interior space of the housing; a locking mechanism protruding from the base at least partially into the interior space of the housing; an inlet coupled to the peripheral housing wall opposite the base, the inlet comprising a hole connecting the interior space of the housing to an exterior space surrounding the housing, the perimeter of the hole closely corresponding to the housing of the portable energy storage device; a housing door operatively coupled to the housing and positioned within the interior space of the housing, the housing door being continuously axially displaceable along at least a portion of the longitudinal axis of the housing from a first position perpendicular to the housing wall and proximate the aperture to a second position perpendicular to the housing wall and proximate the base of the housing; an aperture extending through the housing door concentric with the longitudinal axis of the housing, the aperture being configured to accommodate passage of at least a portion of the locking mechanism and at least a portion of the plurality of electrical contacts when the housing door is displaced to the second position; at least one biasing element operatively coupling the housing door to the base, the at least one biasing element biasing the housing door toward the first position; and a displaceable cover disposed proximate the orifice and displaceable from a closed position in which the orifice is blocked to an open position in which the orifice is unobstructed, the displaceable cover being operably coupled to the housing door and to the housing such that when the housing door is displaced from the first position to the at least one second position, the displaceable cover is displaced from the closed position to the open position.

6. The portable energy storage charging and bidirectional distribution system as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a temperature sensor of the portable energy storage disposed in the portable energy storage charging module; The at least one processor-executable instruction further causes the at least one bidirectional distribution system controller to maintain a temperature of the portable energy storage received by the portable energy storage charging module within a defined temperature range when charging the portable energy storage.

Images