Energy storage device for a bicycle

Abstract

The present application relates to energy storage devices for bicycles. An energy storage device for a bicycle includes a housing, a plurality of battery cells, a battery management system, and a charge controller disposed in the housing, a battery contact connection, and a charging port separate and spaced apart from the battery contact connection. The charging port can include a DC charging port and a USB-C charging port. The present application also provides a bicycle including the energy storage device and a method of charging the energy storage device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application generally relates to energy storage devices for bicycles, bicycles having energy storage devices, and methods for assembling and using energy storage devices on bicycles. Background Technology

[0002] Electric-assisted bicycles, or e-bikes, are typically powered by batteries, which consist of individual battery cells and some configuration of a battery management system. Batteries are usually charged using a charger located externally to the battery and separate from it. The charger may include an AC-DC converter and a charging controller. The separate charging controller communicates with the battery via a wired communication protocol and receives information from the battery to safely charge it. The wired connection between the battery and the charger, as well as the charging controller, is susceptible to damage and failure due to repeated connection / disconnection of the associated connectors, and can create frequent points of failure in the charging system. Such failures can lead to downtime, increased maintenance and costs, and frustration for the end user. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one aspect, one embodiment of an energy storage device for a bicycle includes a housing and a mounting device adapted for mounting to a bicycle. A plurality of battery cells are disposed within the housing. A battery management system, also disposed within the housing, is connected to the plurality of batteries, wherein the battery management system is configured to monitor the voltage of the plurality of battery cells. A charging controller is disposed within the housing and communicates with the battery management system, wherein the charging controller is connected to the plurality of batteries and is configured to adjust the current supplied to the plurality of batteries. The energy storage device includes a charging port mounted on the housing and configured for electrical connection to a bicycle drive unit. In one embodiment, a second charging port located near or separated from and spaced from the first charging port is mounted on the housing and configured for connection to an external power source. In one embodiment, the energy storage device includes a radio for wireless communication, and it at least partially forms a wireless communication system.

[0004] On the other hand, an energy storage device for a bicycle includes: a housing; a plurality of battery cells disposed within the housing; a battery management system disposed within the housing and connected to the plurality of battery cells, wherein the battery management system is configured to monitor the voltage of the plurality of battery cells; and a charging controller disposed within the housing and communicating with the battery management system, wherein the charging controller is connected to the plurality of battery cells and configured to adjust the current supplied to the plurality of battery cells. A battery contact connection is located on the housing and configured for electrical connection to a bicycle drive unit. A USB-C charging port may also be located on the housing and separate from the battery contact connection.

[0005] In another aspect, one embodiment of the bicycle includes a frame and an energy storage device having a housing mounted to the frame. The energy storage device includes: a plurality of battery cells disposed within the housing; a battery management system disposed within the housing and connected to the plurality of battery cells, wherein the battery management system is configured to monitor the voltage of the plurality of battery cells; and a charging controller disposed within the housing and communicating with the battery management system, wherein the charging controller is connected to the plurality of battery cells and configured to adjust the current supplied to the plurality of battery cells. A main charging port is mounted on the housing and configured for connection to an external power source. A secondary charging port is mounted to the frame and configured for connection to an external power source, wherein the secondary charging port is connected to the energy storage device.

[0006] In another aspect, one embodiment of a method for charging an energy storage device includes connecting a first power source to a first charging port and a second power source to a second charging port. The method further includes: determining a first charging characteristic of the first power source using a microcontroller; determining a second charging characteristic of the second power source using the microcontroller; comparing the first and second charging characteristics; and selecting either the first or second power source based on the comparison of the first and second charging characteristics. The method also includes supplying current to a plurality of battery cells using the selected power source from the first and second power sources. In one embodiment, the method may further include: connecting a third power source to a battery contact connection; determining a third charging characteristic; comparing the third charging characteristic with the first and second charging characteristics; selecting a first, second, or third power source based on the comparison; and supplying current from the selected power source.

[0007] In another aspect, one embodiment of a fastener and tool assembly for use on a bicycle with an energy storage device includes a shaft having a longitudinally spaced first end and a second end. The first end includes a threaded portion and a tool component extending axially from the threaded portion. The shaft also includes a tube opening at the second end. A handle is axially movable from a stored position inside the tube to an extended position outside the tube, wherein when in the extended position, the handle is rotatable relative to the second end from a longitudinal orientation to a lateral orientation.

[0008] In another aspect, one embodiment of a bash guard for a bicycle drive unit includes a rigid support member having opposing first and second ends, a plate portion extending between the first and second ends, and opposing side flanges. Each side flange defines a load-bearing surface, wherein the first end includes a first mounting feature, and wherein the second end includes a second mounting feature. A cover is disposed on the outer surface of the support member.

[0009] In another aspect, one embodiment of a drive unit for a bicycle includes a housing having a first support and a second support. A motor is disposed within the housing and defines an axis of rotation, wherein the first and second supports are angularly spaced relative to the axis of rotation and define a triangle with respect to the axis of rotation. A guard is pivotally coupled to the first support, wherein the guard is pivotable between a closed position and an open position, in which the guard forms at least a portion of a bridge between the first and second supports and partially defines a closed loop with the housing, and in the open position, the guard disengages from the second support and forms an opening between the first and second supports.

[0010] Various embodiments of energy storage devices, bicycles, and methods of using and assembling them offer significant advantages over other energy storage devices, bicycles, and methods. For example, but not limited to, by positioning the charging controller within the energy storage device, a single AC-DC power source can be used as a charger, regardless of battery voltage, chemistry, or layout. Furthermore, having a charging controller located within the energy storage device, along with a wireless communication radio, allows communication with the energy storage device without the need for data cables extending from the energy storage device and the associated possibility of damage and / or malfunction. Moreover, because charging current control is handled internally, the charging power source does not need to have information about the status of the energy storage device.

[0011] Another advantage is that the system allows for multiple charging current sources. The charging current can be supplied by DC power, a main power supply, or a secondary power supply, or it can be supplied by a USB-C power source, whether integrated into or located away from the energy storage device. This integration allows end users to use a single standardized charger for their accessories, such as phones or laptops, and also for their bicycle energy storage devices. Conversely, the energy storage device can be used as a charger for external USB-C devices connected to it, including, but not limited to, mobile phones, laptops, and / or tablets.

[0012] Another advantage derived from the charging controller integrated into the energy storage device is that the energy storage device can receive data on energy usage from the connected drive unit while the user is cycling. Using this data, an estimated energy usage per mile can be calculated, allowing the user to customize charging levels, which can protect and extend the overall lifespan of the energy storage device and, in particular, the multiple battery cells.

[0013] The combination of fasteners and tools provides additional advantages, allowing a single component to function as both a locking fastener to secure the energy storage device to the bicycle and a tool for removing the fastener and subsequently engaging and disengaging the protection device from the drive unit and / or frame. The integrated nature of the fastener and tool ensures that the user always has access to the tool, for example, when riding in a remote location, while maintaining a single integrated component, minimizing the risk of losing one or more sub-components.

[0014] The enhanced protective device also offers advantages. The protective element can withstand any impact loads applied to the supporting structure, thereby protecting the energy storage device. Furthermore, the replaceable cover allows users to customize the protective element, for example, by customizing its color and / or graphics, while also allowing for easy replacement if damaged due to a collision event.

[0015] The foregoing paragraphs are provided by way of general description and are not intended to limit the scope of the following claims. Various preferred embodiments and further advantages will be best understood by referring to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0016] The objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0017] Figure 1 This is a side view of an example bicycle.

[0018] Figure 2 This is a side view of a bicycle frame equipped with an exemplary secondary charging port.

[0019] Figure 3 This is a side perspective view of the energy storage device mounted on the bicycle frame.

[0020] Figure 4 This is a side perspective view of one embodiment of an energy storage device.

[0021] Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 Line 5-5 shows an end view of an embodiment of an energy storage device.

[0022] Figure 6 It is along Figure 4 The end view of another embodiment of the energy storage device is taken from line 6-6.

[0023] Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 7C It is an external perspective view of a secondary charging port that is equipped with a DC charging port, a combined DC and USB-C charging port, and a USB-C charging port.

[0024] Figure 8A , Figure 8B and Figure 8C They correspond to Figure 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 7C The diagram shows the secondary charging port.

[0025] Figure 9 This is a side perspective view of one embodiment of an energy storage device with the side wall cover removed.

[0026] Figure 10A and Figure 10B This is a relative side view of one embodiment of an energy storage device, in which the opposite side wall covers have been removed.

[0027] Figure 11 This is a plan view of one embodiment of a printed circuit board.

[0028] Figure 12 This is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of an energy storage device.

[0029] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating one embodiment of the battery pack.

[0030] Figure 14 This is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of an energy storage device.

[0031] Figure 15A , Figure 15B and Figure 15C This is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of alternative charging source selection.

[0032] Figure 16 This is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a charging source selection system.

[0033] Figure 17 This is a side view of an alternative embodiment of a bicycle frame equipped with an exemplary secondary charging port.

[0034] Figure 18 This is a side view of an alternative embodiment of an energy storage device mounted on a bicycle frame.

[0035] Figure 19 This is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of an energy storage device.

[0036] Figure 20A It is along Figure 19 An end view of an embodiment of an energy storage device, taken from lines 20A-20A.

[0037] Figure 20B It is along Figure 4 An end view of another embodiment of the energy storage device, taken from line 20B-20B.

[0038] Figure 21 This is a side perspective view of an alternative embodiment of an energy storage device with the side wall cover removed.

[0039] Figure 22 It is along Figure 21 The side view of the PCB assembly is taken from line 22-22.

[0040] Figure 23 It is along Figure 21 The end view of the PCB assembly is taken from line 23-23.

[0041] Figure 24 This is a side view of one embodiment of a PCB.

[0042] Figure 25 This is a side view of an energy storage device detached from the drive unit, with the protection device in the open position.

[0043] Figure 26 It is a perspective view of an energy storage device engaged with a drive unit and a protection device in the off position.

[0044] Figure 27 It is a side view of an energy storage device engaged with a drive unit and a protection device in the off position.

[0045] Figure 28 It is along Figure 27 The energy storage device and drive unit are shown in the perspective cross-sectional view taken by line 28-28, where the energy storage device is fixed to the drive unit.

[0046] Figure 29 It is a cross-sectional view of an energy storage device that is engaged with the unit and a protective device fixed in the closed position.

[0047] Figure 30A It is a side view of the combination energy storage locking fastener and protective device in the locking structure, and the tool for closing and opening.

[0048] Figure 30B This is a side view of the tool configuration, including the combination of energy storage locking fasteners and protective devices, for both closing and opening the tool.

[0049] Figure 30C This is an exploded view of the combination energy storage locking fastener and protective device closing and opening tools.

[0050] Figure 31 This is a perspective view of the protective device.

[0051] Figure 32 It is along Figure 31 The protective device is shown in a cross-sectional view taken from line 32-32.

[0052] Figure 33 This is a side view of an alternative embodiment of an energy storage device with the side wall cover removed.

[0053] Figure 34 It is along Figure 33 A cross-sectional view of the energy storage device taken from line 34-34.

[0054] Figure 35 This is an exploded view of one embodiment of the protective device. Detailed Implementation

[0055] It should be understood that, as used herein, the term "a plurality of" means two or more. As used herein, the term "longitudinal" refers to a length direction or longitudinal direction, or is related to a length direction or longitudinal direction. As used herein, the term "lateral" means located, pointed, or extended in a direction from one side to the other. The term "connection" means, for example, a direct or indirect connection or engagement via an intervening member, and does not require the engagement to be fixed or permanent, although it may be fixed or permanent. The term "connection" can refer to an electrical or mechanical connection. The term "communication" refers to a connection that allows the transmission of power and / or data, and may include wired or wireless connections. The terms "first," "second," etc., as used herein, do not mean assigned to a specific component so specified, but simply refer to such components in the numerical order mentioned, meaning that a component designated as "first" may later be a "second" such component, depending on the order in which they are mentioned. It should also be understood that the designation of "first" and "second" does not necessarily mean that the two components or values ​​so specified are different; this means that, for example, a first direction may be the same as a second direction, where each simply applies to different components. The terms “upper,” “lower,” “rear,” “front,” “front,” “rear,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” “right,” “left,” “inner,” “outer,” and their variations or derivatives refer to… Figure 1 The orientation of the exemplary bicycle 50 shown, from the perspective of a user seated thereon, indicates that, for example, "inner" parts or features are closer to the vertical midplane of the bicycle extending in direction A. The term "lateral" means not parallel. The terms "outer" and "outward" refer to directions or features away from the center position; for example, the phrases "radially outward," "radial direction," and / or their derivatives refer to features that diverge away from the center position, such as... Figure 2 The rotation axis 2 of the protective device is shown. Conversely, the terms "inner" and "inward" refer to the direction facing the center or interior position. The term "sub-assembly" refers to an assembly of multiple parts, wherein the sub-assembly can be further assembled into other sub-assemblies and / or final assemblies, such as bicycle 50.

[0056] Figure 1 and Figure 17An example of a human-powered vehicle is shown, which may also include an electric drive system. In this example, the vehicle is a bicycle 50, such as a mountain bike. The bicycle 50 has a frame 52, handlebars 54 near the front end of the frame 52, and a seat or saddle 56 for supporting the rider on top of the frame 52. The bicycle 50 also has a first wheel or front wheel 58 carried by a fork assembly 60 supporting the front end of the frame 52. The bicycle 50 also has a second wheel or rear wheel 62 supporting the rear end of the frame 52. The rear end of the frame 52 may be supported by a rear suspension component 61, such as a rear shock absorber. The bicycle 50 has a drivetrain 64 with a crank assembly 66 operatively coupled via a roller chain 68 to a rear cassette 70 or a driven sprocket assembly near the hub, which provides the axis of rotation for the rear wheel 62. The crank assembly 66 includes at least one, and typically two, crank arms 75 and pedals 76, as well as a front chainring assembly 301 or a drive sprocket assembly. A crankshaft or shaft may connect two crank arms. The crankshaft defines the central axis of rotation of the chain link assembly 301. The crank assembly may also include other components.

[0057] A rear derailleur 37, such as a derailleur, is positioned at the rear wheel 62 to move the roller chain 68 through different sprockets of the freewheel 70. In one embodiment, a front derailleur (not shown), such as a derailleur, may be provided to move the chain 68 through multiple sprockets of the chain link assembly 301 (if present). In the example shown, the saddle 56 is supported on a seatpost 81 having an end housed in the top of the frame seatpost 89. A clamping ring 91 can be tightened to secure the upper seatpost 81 to the lower frame seatpost 89. Figure 1 In the diagram, arrow A depicts the normal riding or forward movement direction of bicycle 50. The transmission system may be equipped with a power meter device 77.

[0058] refer to Figures 1 to 13 and Figures 17 to 24 The bicycle 50 includes a drive unit 100 mounted on a frame 52 and coupled to a crank assembly 66. The drive unit 100 can be powered to partially or completely assist the rotation of the crank assembly 66, the associated movement of the chain 68, and the associated rotation of the freewheel 70 and the rear wheel 62. The drive unit 100 can be electrically coupled to energy storage devices 102, 1102 (also referred to as batteries), which supply power to the drive unit 100.

[0059] The energy storage device 102 is held in place by engaging the upper contact 126 of the drive unit battery contact connection 124 and the protective device 104 mounted to the frame 52 at a mounting feature 106, which in one embodiment is configured as a lug. The mounting feature 106 of the protective device 104 defines a rotation axis 2 and includes an opening for receiving a fastener 108 (e.g., a pin or shaft) that secures the mounting feature to the frame 52. The protective device 104 includes a snap-fit ​​feature that engages the energy storage device. The protective device 104 is rotatable about axis 2. The protective device 104 includes a second mounting feature 110, which in one embodiment is configured as a lug, also connecting to the frame 52 at a second connection point defined by a releasable or removable fastener 112. In one embodiment, the fastener 112 is configured as a pin that can be inserted through the opening in the mounting feature 110 of the protective device 104 and engage with a corresponding opening on the bicycle frame 52 or drive unit 100. Fastener 112 can be removed, allowing the protective device 104 to rotate about axis 2 and thereby lower. The protective device 104 includes a plate / support structure 116 extending between mounting features 106, 110.

[0060] refer to Figure 17 , Figure 18 and Figures 25 to 28 The drive unit 100 includes a housing 501 having a cylindrical shell 500 sandwiched between laterally spaced side covers 502, the side covers 502 being clamped by a plurality of fasteners 504. Each side cover 502 has a cantilever 506 extending forward and downward. A U-shaped support frame 508 includes a pair of side arms 510 and a laterally extending transverse member 512 connecting the side arms. The side arms 510 are coupled to the cantilever 506 by a pair of fasteners 514, wherein the support frame and the housing form a ring 516 defining an opening into a cavity 518 of a lower tube 520 of the frame 52. The lower tube 520 and the cavity define a longitudinal axis 522. In one embodiment, a guide 524 configured as a slider extends laterally inward from the side arms 510. Each side arm includes, in one embodiment, a forward and upward extending flange 526 parallel to the axis 522, having an alignment opening 528 also aligned with the guide 524. In one embodiment, the arm 510 and flange 526 are specifically disposed within a cavity 518 of the frame and can also be secured to the frame 52 using fasteners 514. In one embodiment, the cantilever 506 can be directly attached to the frame 52, wherein the frame has guides 524 positioned on opposite sides of the cavity 518.

[0061] The protective device 530 has a first end 534 pivotally attached to the housing via a hinge pin 532, the hinge pin 532 extending between the side covers 502. In such a way... Figures 26 to 28In the closed position shown, the opposite end 536 of the protective device covers and can be fixed to the transverse member 512 of the support frame 508. Specifically, the arms 506 and hinge lugs 544 of the housing 501 and the side cover 502 respectively define a first support 546 and a second support 548 for the protective device. Figure 25 As shown, the first support 546 and the second support 548 are angularly spaced (θ) relative to the axis of rotation 550 of the motor 552 disposed in the housing and define a triangle 554 with respect to the axis of rotation 550. The protective device 530 and the support frame 508 in the closed position define a closed-loop load path returning to the drive unit housing 501 and ultimately to the frame 52 to which the housing is attached. In one embodiment, the protective device 530 forms at least a portion of a bridge between the first support 546 and the second support 548, wherein the bridge further includes a portion of a side arm 510. In another embodiment, the protective device 530 defines a bridge between the first support and the second support, including, for example, an interface between a hinge pin 532 at one end and a load-bearing surface 826, 828 at the other end. In this way, any load (F) applied to the bottom of the protective device 530, for example, during an impact with an environmental object, is transferred to the first support 546 and the second support 548, namely the drive unit arm 506 and hinge lug 544 / housing 501, and then to the frame 52. The outer surface 556 of the energy storage device 1102, supported by the support frame 508 and / or the frame, is spaced apart from the inner surface 555 of the protective device, and is thus isolated from the protective device and does not directly absorb any impact load (F). The energy storage device 1102 is also held in place by an electrical contact 1126, which engages the drive unit battery contact connection 1124 mounted on the housing arm 506. In the open position, the protective device 530 disengages from the second support 546, forming an opening 560 between the first support 546 and the second support 548, as Figure 25As shown. The energy storage device 1102 is mounted to the support frame 508 and / or the frame 52 via a guide 524 and a locking fastener 562. The energy storage device 1102 has a track 564 formed in the sidewall 1130 of the energy storage device 1102. In operation, the energy storage device 1102 translates or slides upward along the longitudinal axis 522 through the ring 516 or the opening, wherein the guide 524 engages the track 564. In an alternative embodiment, the track 564 may be formed on the support frame and / or the frame, wherein the guide 524 is disposed on the housing 1122. The energy storage device includes a through opening 568 aligned with the opening 528 in the opposite arm of the support frame and the opening 570 in the frame 52. The energy storage device 1102 slides upward along the longitudinal axis 522 until the electrical contacts / connectors 1124, 1126 are engaged. The locking fastener 562 is inserted through an opening 570 in one side of the frame, an opening 528 in one of the side arms, and an opening 568 in the energy storage device, and threadedly engages with threaded holes 528, 570 in the side arm or the other side of the frame. In one embodiment, the threaded portion 1606 of the end 1602 of the locking fastener may thread-engage with the opposite side of the frame or with fasteners (such as nuts) fixed to the support frame and / or the frame. The locking fastener 562 prevents the energy storage device 1102 from moving along the longitudinal axis 522 (e.g., the Z direction), while the interface / engagement between the rail 564 and the guide 524 prevents movement perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 522, not only laterally but also in the plane of the bicycle (X and Y directions).

[0062] refer to Figures 28 to 30C The locking fastener 562 is configured as a combined locking fastener and closing tool. The fastener 562 includes a shaft 1600 having a first end 1602 and a second end 1604 spaced apart along a longitudinal axis 611. The shaft 1600 may have a shank 1616 and a tube 1610. The shank 1616 and the tube 1610 may be formed separately or integrally, and the shank may also have a tubular configuration in one embodiment. The first end 1602 includes a threaded portion 1606 and a tool component 1608 extending axially from the threaded portion 1606; in one embodiment, the threaded portion 1606 and the tool component 1608 are formed on the shank 1616. The tube 1610 opens at the second end 1604. A handle 1614 is available along the axis 611 from... Figure 30A The storage position inside the tube 1610 shown is axially moved to the extended position outside the tube 1610, wherein when in such a position... Figure 30BIn the extended position shown, the handle 1614 can rotate relative to the second end 1604 from a longitudinal orientation to a lateral orientation. The threaded portion 1606 threadedly engages with one of the openings 528 or 570 in a side arm or side of the frame. In one embodiment, where the handle 1616 and the tube 1610 are separate components, the handle 1616 may include opposing threaded ends 1618 and an annular flange 1620 disposed between the threaded portions 1606 and 1618. The tube 1610 includes an internally threaded portion 1622 that threadedly engages with the threaded end 1618 of the handle, wherein the end 1624 of the tube 1610 engages the annular flange 1620 in a fully tightened configuration. A magnet 1626 is disposed in the tube 1610 and abuts the threaded end 1618 of the handle 1616. The opposing end of the tube 1610 includes a head 1628 having a pivot bushing 630 inserted therein. The handle 1614 or lever has opposing ends 632, 634, wherein an annular flange 636 is formed adjacent to one end of end 632. The other end 634 includes an annular groove 638 defining a grippable end cap 640 at end 634. The handle 1614 is axially movable along axis 611 from a stored position within the tube 1610 to an extended position outside the tube 1610, wherein when in the extended position, the handle is rotatable relative to the second end 1604 from a longitudinal orientation to a transverse orientation. As described above, the term "transverse" means non-parallel with an angle β > 0. In the stored position, the handle 1614 is disposed inside the tube, with one end 632 magnetically attracted to and held in the stored position by magnet 1626. In the stored position, the grippable end cap 640 is exposed and accessible at the end 1604 of the fastener, as Figure 30B As shown. The magnet 1626 is magnetically attracted to the end 1618 of the handle, and can also be press-fitted or otherwise fixed to the end of the tube 1610, for example, by adhesive.

[0063] In operation, the user can clamp the end cap 640 and pull out the handle by pulling along the longitudinal axis 611 until the annular flange 636 engages the bushing 630. The handle 1614 can then rotate about the axis 613 defined by the bushing 630. In this position, the handle defines an angle β relative to the axis 611 of the shaft, allowing the handle 1614 to be rotated and thereby applying torque to the shaft 1600 and causing one of the openings 528, 570 to engage or disengage from the threaded portion 1606. Loads can be applied to the handle 1614 to rotate the tube portion 1610 and the handle portion 1616 to disengage the locking fastener from the support frame and / or the chassis, such as... Figure 28As shown. Once the locking fastener is disengaged by threading / tightening, it can be pulled out or removed by pulling it along axis 611 from the support frame, energy storage device, and frame. The connection between guide 524 and rail 564, and electrical connectors 1124, 1126, continues to support and hold the energy storage device 1102 in place relative to the support frame 508 and frame 52.

[0064] exist Figure 29 , Figure 31 and Figure 32 In the illustrated embodiment, the protective device 530 includes a mounting feature 700 defining a rotation axis 702. The protective device 530 rotates about the axis 702 to expose an inner cavity 518 in the frame. The energy storage device 1102 slides upward into or downward out of the inner cavity 518. The protective device 530 can then be rotated about the axis 702, wherein the mounting feature 704 secures opposite ends 536 of the protective device to a support frame 508. The mounting feature 704 may include releasable or removable fasteners 705, such as bolts, cams, spring-loaded pawls, or other mechanisms for securing the protective device. The fasteners 705 can be removed or disengaged, allowing the protective device 530 to rotate about the axis 702 and thereby be lowered to expose the inner cavity 518. In one embodiment, the end of the shank is configured as a tool portion 1608, for example having a convex lip, square, toroidal, or hexagonal head, flat head, concave recess, and / or other known and suitable drive head, which is shaped to abut a corresponding tool engagement feature of the fastener 705, including, for example, an opening or protrusion shaped to receive the tool portion 1608. The tool portion 1608 can engage with the tool engagement feature of the fastener 705, such as... Figure 29 As shown. The user can grip the handle 1614 again and rotate it about axis 611, thereby rotating and twisting / driving the tool part 1608 and the engaged fastener 705 clockwise or counterclockwise about axis 670 to tighten the fastener 705, thereby closing / locking the protection device 530, or to loosen the fastener 705, thereby opening / unlocking the protection device 530. In this way, the locking fastener 562 not only secures the energy storage device 1102 to the bicycle, but can also be deployed as a tool for disengaging and securing the protection device 530. The handle 1614 allows the user to twist the fastener / tool ​​in both cases: tightening / loosening the fastener 562, and tightening / loosening the fastener 705.

[0065] refer to Figure 31 , Figure 32 and Figure 35The protective device 530 includes a plate / support structure 800 extending between mounting features 700, 704, which may be made of a rigid material such as aluminum or steel. The plate has upturned sidewalls 802 to increase the bending moment of inertia and to resist bending during an impact event, thereby transferring / transmitting loads to the mounting features 700, 704. Each sidewall 802 includes a load-bearing surface 826 at an end 536, which engages a load-bearing surface 828 on the housing when the protective device 530 is in the closed position, and the impact load is transferred between the load-bearing surfaces 826, 828. A cover 806 extends on the outer surface / outer surface 808 of the plate 800. The cover 806 may be made of plastic and can be easily decorated or colored to match the bicycle frame 52 or to carry logos or other graphics and / or images. The cover 806 is secured to the plate 800 by a plurality of fasteners 810, such as adjacent ends 534, 536, and can be easily removed / replaced, for example, if damaged. In one embodiment, such as Figure 32 As shown, the mounting feature 704 includes a fastener 705 captured between a cover 806 and a mounting flange 812 extending forward from between the plate 800 and the cover 806. The flange 812 can be captured and held between the plate 800 and the cover 806 using the fastener 810. The fastener 705 rotates freely within a cavity 816 defined by the cover 806, but is prevented from falling out or being lost by the flange 812 covering the cavity 816. The guard 530 includes a hinge fitting 820 connected to the opposite ends of the plate 800 and the cover 806 via the fastener 810. The fitting 820 includes a pair of lugs 822 defining a rotation axis 702. The fitting can be made as a die-cast aluminum part.

[0066] exist Figure 2 and Figure 3 In one embodiment, the energy storage device 102 can be mounted on or engaged with the protection device 104, for example, by nesting the energy storage device 102 onto the plate / support structure 116. The energy storage device 102 and the protection device 104 can then be rotated in opposite directions about axis 2 until the battery contact connection 124 on the energy storage device 102 contacts and engages with the corresponding contact 126 on the drive unit or frame 52, which may be defined by a pair of forks. Fasteners 112 can then be inserted to secure the position of the energy storage device 102 and the protection device 104 relative to the frame 52 and drive unit 100, while maintaining the electrical connection between the drive unit 100 and the energy storage device 102 via the contact connection 124 and contact 126. In this way, the energy storage device 102 is held in place relative to the frame 52 and drive unit 100 by the mounting structure 120.

[0067] Mounting configuration 120 may be defined by the shape of the energy storage device housing 122 and the interface between housing 122, protective device 104, frame 52, and / or drive unit 100. The phrase "mounting configuration" refers to any structure that maintains the position of energy storage devices 102, 1102 relative to frame 52 and / or drive unit 100, and may include the interface between housing 122 and frame 52 and / or drive unit 100, including interfaces between contacts 124, 126, and / or may include additional fasteners such as bolts, tabs, clips, snaps, pawls, insert / socket interfaces, and / or other suitable connectors. Energy storage device 102 and housing 122 are particularly releasable to frame 52 and / or drive unit 100, meaning that energy storage device 102 and housing 122 can be moved from an engaged position to a disengaged position and can be replaced by another energy storage device.

[0068] refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 9 , Figure 10A and Figure 10B The housing 122 may be configured with a pair of laterally spaced opposing sidewalls 130 or covers, and a peripheral wall 132 extending between and connecting to the sidewalls 130. One or more of the peripheral wall 132 and the sidewalls 130 may define a shell covered by the other sidewall, wherein each sidewall 130 defines a cover. The sidewall 130 has an outer edge 134 that generally mates with or follows the contour of the peripheral wall 132. For example, as... Figure 3As shown, the outer edge 134 and the peripheral wall 132 have a front surface 136, which has an upper portion 138 and a lower portion 140 forming a first acute angle α and a second acute angle β relative to the bottom surface 142. The front surface 136 also includes a concave recess 144 or a support that receives a mounting feature 106 of the protection device 104, which is nested in the recess 144, which partially defines the mounting configuration 120 of the energy storage device 102. The bottom surface 142 extends rearward from the lower portion 140 of the front surface 136. The housing 122 also includes a back surface 146 extending upward from the bottom surface 142. The back surface 146 includes a second concave recess 148 that receives the outer periphery of the drive unit 100, which is nested in the second recess 148, which partially defines the mounting configuration 120 of the energy storage device 102. The top surface 150 of the peripheral wall extends forward from the back surface 146 and connects to the front surface 136 at a projection angle 152. The housing includes a charging section 154 or platform that protrudes or extends from the outer perimeter wall and has a width less than the total width of the outer perimeter wall. The charging section 154 has a back portion 156 and a top portion 158. The charging section 154 includes a pair of sidewalls 161, which may be triangular in shape. The charging section 154 may be integrally formed with the outer perimeter wall. The back portion 156 may include one or more charging ports 160, 162, which may be formed in the plate 164 that partially defines the back portion 156. A battery contact connection 124 is located on and partially defines the back portion 156 of the charging section 154 and may be defined by the charging port 160. In one embodiment, as... Figure 6 As shown, the first charging port 160 is configured as a DC charging port, including, for example, a pair of electrical contacts, and the second charging port 162 is configured as a USB-C charging port. The charging ports 160 and 162 may, for example, coexist on the same mounting plate 164, which may be a removable cover fixed to the charging section 154. Alternatively, one or both of the charging ports 160 and 162 may be spaced apart and located on different parts of the housing, such as on one of the sidewalls 130. For example, as... Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, a second charging port 162, configured as a USB-C charging port, is located on the outer side wall 130, and a first charging port 160 is located on the mounting plate 164. It should be understood that charging ports 160 and 162 can be located individually or together on any part of the housing. In another embodiment, for example in… Figure 5 As shown, the energy storage device 102 is equipped with only a single charging port 160.

[0069] Sidewall 130 and peripheral wall 132 define the cavity 166 of the housing. Sidewall 130 may be attached to peripheral wall 132 by a plurality of fasteners 168 shown as screws, or may be integrally formed therewith or connected to other fasteners such as adhesives, snap-fit, tabs, clips and / or other suitable fasteners.

[0070] refer to Figures 18 to 21 In one embodiment, the housing 1122 of the energy storage device may be configured with a pair of laterally spaced opposing sidewalls 1130 or covers, and a peripheral wall 1132 extending between and connected to the sidewalls 1130. One or more of the peripheral wall 1132 and the sidewalls 1130 may define a shell covered by the other sidewall, wherein each sidewall 1130 defines a cover. The sidewalls 1130 may be attached to the peripheral wall 1132 using one or more fasteners 1133, which are shown as screws or adhesives, snap-fits, tabs, clips, and / or other suitable fasteners 1133. The housing 1122 may include one or more charging ports 1125, including a battery contact connection 1126. In one embodiment, the energy storage device 1102 may include a first charging port 1125 configured as a DC charging port, including, for example, a pair of electrical contacts, wherein the charging port 1125 further defines a motor connection 1126. The energy storage device may also include a USB-C port 1162.

[0071] Sidewall 1130 and peripheral wall 1132 define an inner cavity 1166 of housing 1122. Energy storage device 1102 includes a plurality of battery cells 170 disposed or positioned within housing 1122, and specifically disposed within the inner cavity 1166 of housing 1122. In one embodiment, as Figure 33 and Figure 34 As shown, a bracket 1202 or wall extends across the inner cavity 1166 and engages with opposing spaced portions (e.g., top and bottom) 1204, 1206 of the peripheral wall 1132. In one embodiment, the bracket 1202 has a central lug portion 1205. The central lug 1205 may define a through-hole 568. The bracket 1202 transmits applied loads to one side 1206 of the peripheral wall 1132. For example, the bracket 1202 may transmit loads to a fastener 562 in the through-hole 568 and / or to the opposing side 1204 of the peripheral wall 1132. The housing 1122 may include a plurality of brackets 1202, for example, spaced longitudinally along the length of the housing. The housing 1122 includes an enlarged side portion 1210 that protrudes or extends from one of the side walls 1130 and defines a charging portion 1212 with a face 1214. The faceplate 1212 may include one or more charging ports 1125, 1162, which may also be connected to the drive unit 100 and define a battery contact connection portion 1126. In one embodiment, such as Figure 20Aand Figure 20B As shown, the first charging port 1125 is configured as a DC charging port, including, for example, a pair of electrical contacts 1126, and the second charging port 1162 is configured as a USB-C charging port (in... Figure 20B (As shown in the image). Charging ports 1125 and 1162 can be located together, for example, with... Figure 20A and Figure 20B On the same side 1214 shown, it can be a removable cover fixed to the charging section 1212. Alternatively, one or both of the charging ports 1125, 1162 can be spaced apart and located on different portions of the housing 1122, such as on one of the sidewalls 1130. It should be understood that the charging ports 1125, 1162 can be located individually or together on any portion of the housing 1122. In another embodiment, for example on Figure 20A As shown, the energy storage device 1102 is equipped with only a single charging port 1125.

[0072] refer to Figure 19 The heat sink 1194 may be coupled to the housing 1122, for example, overlapping with the charging controller 192 on one or more sides of the battery pack 172, and is thermally connected to the electronics of the charging controller 192. In one embodiment, the heat sink 1194 is configured as a metal plate, which may have grooves 1195 or fins on its outer surface to increase its exposed surface area. More than one heat sink 1194 may be coupled to the housing adjacent to the charging controller 192. In order for the heat sink 1194 to properly dissipate heat from the charging controller 192, the heat sink 1194 is preferably exposed to air in a heat dissipation location.

[0073] Now for reference Figures 9 to 16 , Figure 18 and Figures 21 to 24 Energy storage devices 102 and 1102 include a plurality of battery cells 170, which are specifically disposed or positioned within housings 122 and 1122 and within cavities 166 and 1166 of the housings 122 and 1122. The battery cells 170 are individual cells connected in series and in parallel to form a battery pack 172. The battery pack configuration is described by the number of battery cells 170 connected in series and the number of battery cells 170 connected in parallel. The 10S-3P battery pack 172 comprises ten parallel groups connected in series, each group containing three battery cells, for example, but not limited to… Figure 13 As shown. There are many possible battery cell configurations that can be applied to energy storage devices, including, for example, but not limited to, 10S-3P, 13S-2P and 16S-2P configurations.

[0074] Energy storage devices 102 and 1102 include a battery management system (BMS) 174 disposed within a housing 122. The BMS 174 can be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB) 176 or 1176 disposed within the housing, such as... Figure 11 and Figures 21 to 24 As shown. PCBs 176 and 1176 cover and have connectors that are inserted into the PCBs from the battery cells. PCBs 176 and 1176 are also disposed or mounted within housings 122 and 1122, 166 and 1166, for example, using openings to receive fasteners 80 and 1080 connected to housings 122 and 1122. BMS 174 is connected to each series cell group in battery pack 172 to monitor the voltage of the battery cells in case of failure, such as... Figure 13 As shown. The BMS174 also measures the current flowing into and out of the battery pack 172 to prevent overcurrent faults. The BMS174 may include temperature sensors distributed throughout the battery pack to monitor the temperature of the battery pack 172 during charging and discharging to prevent damage to the battery pack due to overheating. Using all this information, the BMS174 can control the charge and discharge field-effect transistors (FETs) 190, 192 to connect or disconnect the battery pack 172 from the rest of the system during charging and discharging. The BMS174 receives configuration information from the microcontroller 178 and the radio device 180. The configuration information may include charge / discharge current limits, individual battery cell voltage limits, and above / below temperature limits that can be preset by the microcontroller firmware. The configuration information can also be dynamically updated via firmware updates or based on information received by the microcontroller 178 from other systems on the bicycle (e.g., wirelessly received by the radio device).

[0075] Energy storage devices 102 and 1102 include a charge controller 182 disposed within a housing 122 and mounted on PCBs 176 and 1176. The charge controller 182 can be connected to a DC power supply. The charge controller 182 adjusts the DC power to safely charge the battery pack 172. In the case of a lithium-ion battery pack, the charge controller 182 supplies a constant current to the battery cells 170 until a target voltage is reached, at which point the charge controller supplies a constant voltage while the current slowly decreases to zero. During charging, the charge controller 182 communicates with and receives messages from the battery management system 174 and the microcontroller 178, allowing the charge controller to adjust the charging current based on the battery state to provide fast and safe charging.

[0076] Microcontroller 178 may be housed within a housing or its internal cavity and mounted on PCBs 176 and 1176. Microcontroller 178 receives data from BMS 174, USB-C controller 184, charging controller 182, inertial measurement unit (IMU) 186, and / or smartphone applications via wireless or wired communication. Microcontroller 178 uses the data to make decisions regarding: how to quickly charge battery pack 172, how much power to supply from USB-C charging ports 162 and 1162 (if connected), whether energy storage devices 102 and 1102 have fallen out when not installed in the bicycle, when to display battery state of charge using indicator 188 (e.g., LED), and / or when to enable the output of energy storage devices 102 and 1102. Smartphone applications may receive information about energy storage devices 102 and 1102 via microcontroller 178 and radio 180. Information that can be transmitted to a user or human / machine interface (HMI) (otherwise referred to as a user interface, such as in a smartphone) can include charging status, estimated charging time, faults, battery pack temperature, individual cell voltage, total battery pack voltage, and battery pack health. Smartphone applications can also send information to the battery pack.

[0077] The energy storage device may also include an indicator 188, which in one embodiment is configured as an array of LEDs mounted on PCBs 176, 1176, wherein the LEDs are visible to the user through or on the exterior of the housing. The indicator 188 may be a collection of red / blue / green (RGB) LEDs, which may be used to display charging status, error messages, or general bicycle alarms. The LEDs may be activated via a battery installation detection device (e.g., sensor 198) or by IMU 186, depending on whether the energy storage devices 102, 1102 are installed. Indications may also be sent to the user via a smartphone application. Push notifications of malfunctions may provide more detailed warnings to the user of malfunctions in the energy storage devices 102, 1102. Within the application, battery state of charge and health may be displayed on a component screen. In one embodiment, multiple indicators 188 are provided, including, for example, five (5) RGB LEDs, to provide various indications. Several potential ways these LEDs can be used to indicate state of charge and malfunctions to the user are present. For example, when the energy storage devices 102, 1102 are not installed in the bicycle, a state of charge (SOC) indication can be provided, and the SOC indication can be triggered, for example, when the energy storage devices 102, 1102 are picked up or otherwise moved, wherein such movement is detected by the IMU 186.

[0078] Indicator 188 can be used by using only green LEDs and decreasing brightness as the state of charge decreases. For example, if there are five (5) LEDs, each LED can be turned off after the system has consumed 20% of its state of charge. Within each 20%, the LED brightness will decrease from 100% to 0%. Alternatively, indicator 188 can be configured as RGB LEDs that change from green to orange to red within each 20% of the state of charge. Faults can be indicated by lighting specific LEDs or LED patterns in a manner that is not indicated by the state of charge. For example, a single red LED can be lit in a location where the state of charge cannot be indicated. Different locations can indicate different types of faults. Flashing LEDs in a pattern can indicate different faults based on timing and color.

[0079] Energy storage devices 102 and 1102 may include sensors 198 disposed in or on the housing, which detect whether the device is mounted on the bicycle. The sensors may include contact, force, and / or spatial sensors, and may be magnetic, button, NFC, IR sensors, or any other type of sensor, whether electrical or mechanical.

[0080] The IMU 186 can be housed within or on a housing and can be mounted on a PCB 176. The IMU 186 includes an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and / or a magnetometer. The IMU 186 can use these three sensors to determine the position of the energy storage device 102 in space and its relative movement. The IMU 186 can communicate with a microcontroller 178 to track whether the energy storage devices 102, 1102 have encountered any collisions when not mounted on the bicycle. If a collision has been detected, additional safety checks can be performed to ensure that the energy storage devices 102, 1102 remain safe to use. Data from the IMU 186 can also be transmitted via a radio device 180 to other components on the bicycle.

[0081] Energy storage devices 102 and 1102 include charge / discharge FETs 190 and 192 or MOSFETs disposed in or on housings 122 and 1122, and can be mounted on PCBs 176 and 1176. The FETs are used to control the power flow into and out of the energy storage devices during charging and discharging. When the battery is not installed, the FETs also allow the battery's output terminals to be disabled.

[0082] refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figures 7A to 8C and Figures 19 to 20BCharging ports 160, 162, and 1125 are referred to as primary charging ports. One or more secondary charging ports 200 can be located anywhere on the bicycle, where power cables 202 or wires can be routed to the charging ports 200. The terms "primary" and "secondary" are not intended to indicate that one charging port has a preference over another, increased charging capacity, or primacy. Rather, these terms are used only to distinguish between ports located on the energy storage device (primary) and ports located away from the energy storage device (secondary). Power cables 202 are electrically connected at opposite ends to drive unit 100 and battery contact connections 124, 1124, allowing secondary charging ports 200 to charge or discharge energy storage devices 102, 1102 when connected to an external power source. Secondary charging ports 200 are directly connected to drive unit battery contact connections 126, 1126 via wires 202, which may include power and ground wires. This connection scheme requires no additional connection to energy storage devices 102, 1102 for charging the energy storage devices on the bicycle. In one embodiment, the wire 202 or conductor is internally routed within the frame 52, but it should be understood that the wire may also be externally routed and secured to the frame or other components, for example, using clips, straps or other types of fasteners.

[0083] The secondary charging port 200 includes a mounting plate 206, also referred to as a housing, which can be attached to the frame 52, drive unit 100, or other components using one or more fasteners or adhesives. The housing may also be integrally formed with the frame and / or drive unit. The secondary charging port can be located in any orientation and can be configured with separate... Figures 7A to 8C Any DC and / or USB-C configuration shown. For example, but not limited to, the secondary charging port location can be position 210 on the downtube, position 212 on the seat tube, or position 214 on the top tube, which can be paired with, for example, position 216 on the human / machine interface (HMI) and / or drive unit. More than one secondary charging port location can be provided on any bicycle.

[0084] In one embodiment, such as Figure 7A and Figure 8A As shown, the auxiliary charging port 200 can be configured simply to connect directly to the output terminal of the energy storage device or the DC charging port 220 of the battery contact connection 124 when the energy storage device is mounted in the frame 52, as described above. The DC charging port 220 includes a DC interface, such as a double-fork socket or two contact interfaces.

[0085] Alternatively, such as Figure 7B and Figure 8BAs shown, the secondary charging port may include a DC charging port 220 and a USB-C charging port 222 positioned on board 206. If the USB-C charging port 222 is configured, the secondary charging port may include a microcontroller 224 and a USB-C controller 226 to coordinate the USB-C charging voltage and apply the voltage to the DC bus, and include a radio device 228 to facilitate communication. In addition to charging the energy storage device 102 through charging ports 220 and 222, this embodiment of the secondary charging port can draw power from the energy storage devices 102 and 1102 and supply power to accessories (such as telephones, laptops, or tablets) connected to the USB-C charging port 222.

[0086] like Figure 7C and Figure 8C As shown, the secondary charging port may consist solely of the USB-C charging port 222. Similar to the previously described embodiments, this secondary charging port also includes a microcontroller 224 and a USB-C controller 226 to coordinate the USB-C charging voltage and apply it to the DC bus. In addition to charging energy storage devices 102 and 1102 via charging port 222, this embodiment of the secondary charging port can also draw power from energy storage device 102 and supply power to accessories connected to the USB-C charging port 222.

[0087] Energy storage devices 102, 1102 and auxiliary charging port 200 provide multiple potential sources of charging current. Charging current can be supplied via DC power supply 300 connected to charging port 160, via power supplies 302, 306 connected to USB-C charging ports 162, 222 located on energy storage devices 102 or frame 52, or via DC power supply 304 connected to DC charging port 220 located on frame 52. Multiple power supplies 300, 302, 304, 306 (also referred to as charging sources) can be connected to the system simultaneously. For example, if energy storage device 102 is removed from the bicycle, DC power supply 300 can be directly connected to charging port 160. If multiple charging sources are connected simultaneously, the microcontroller 178 and charging source selection module 179 must determine which of the connected power supplies 300, 302, 304, 306 to use to charge battery pack 172. One approach is to use a module with... Figure 15A Any charging source with the higher voltage shown. Another method is to perform a short-time test charge at the maximum current that power supplies 300, 302, 304, and 306 (whichever is connected) can provide. The microcontroller will then determine which power supply has the higher power output and will use that source. Figure 15B As shown. Another option is to select charging sources 300, 302, 304, and 306 among the connected charging sources based on which charging source voltage is closest to the desired final charging voltage, as shown. Figure 15CAs shown. This will reduce the amount of voltage switching required by the charger during the charging process.

[0088] The method includes monitoring the voltage of multiple battery cells 170 using a battery management system 174, connecting first, second, third, and / or fourth power supplies 300, 302, 304, and 306 to corresponding first, second, third, and / or fourth charging ports, and determining the first, second, third, and / or fourth charging characteristics of the power supplies using a microcontroller. It should be understood that more than four charging ports can be connected, including, but not limited to, multiple charging ports located on or away from energy storage devices 102 and 1102. For example, it should be understood that energy storage devices 102 and 1102 may be configured with, in addition to, for example... Figures 3 to 6 Additional charging ports beyond the two shown charging ports 160, 162, are located anywhere on the housing 122, including in accessible locations when the energy storage device is mounted on the bicycle frame 52, and / or in concealed locations when the energy storage device 102 is mounted on the bicycle frame. Furthermore, as noted, charging ports 160 and 162 may be located at multiple locations on the housings 122, 1122. Charging characteristics may include voltage, current, and / or power. The microcontroller 178 then compares first, second, third, and / or fourth charging characteristics and selects one of the first, second, third, and / or fourth power sources based on the comparison of charging characteristics. The system then supplies current to the plurality of battery cells 170 using one of the selected power sources 300, 302, 304, 306. The operation method may also include: using a USB-C controller 184 and a microcontroller 178 disposed in the housing to coordinate whether to supply current to or draw current from the multiple battery cells 170; using an IMU 186 to measure the acceleration of the housing; and / or communicating wirelessly with the microcontroller 178 via a radio device 180.

[0089] refer to Figures 15A to 15C and Figure 16In operation, for example, in actions 600 and 602, microcontroller 178 determines whether power supplies 300, 302, 304, and 306 are connected to charging ports 160 and 162. In action 604, microcontroller 178 determines whether power supplies 302 and 306 are connected to charging ports 160 and 162. In action 606, if power supplies 302 and 306 are not connected to charging ports 160 and 162, microcontroller 178 determines whether energy storage device 102 is installed on the bicycle, and if not, in action 610, the microcontroller enters idle mode and disconnects the battery terminals from the battery cells. In action 608, if power supplies 302 and 306 are connected, the energy storage device is charged by power supplies 302 and 306. In action 612, if the energy storage device is installed on the bicycle, energy storage devices 102 and 1102 provide energy according to the request of drive unit 100. In action 614, if power supplies 302 and 306 are not connected and power supplies 300 and 304 are connected, the energy storage device is charged by power supplies 300 and 304. In action 616, if power supplies 300, 304, 302, and 306 are connected, the microcontroller 178 is configured to select a charging source from a first power supply 300 connected to a DC charging port, a second power supply 302 / third power supply 306 connected to the main and secondary USB-C charging ports, or a fourth power supply 304 connected to a secondary DC charging port. The first power supply 300 has a first voltage, the second power supply 302 has a second voltage, the third power supply 306 has a third voltage, and the fourth power supply 304 has a fourth voltage. The microcontroller 178 is configured to select the power supply with the largest voltage; for example, when three power supplies are present, if the first voltage is greater than the second and third voltages, the microcontroller 178 selects the first power supply; if the second voltage is greater than the first and third voltages, the microcontroller 178 selects the second power supply; or if the third voltage is greater than the first and second voltages, the microcontroller 178 selects the third power supply. In action 618, if USB C power supplies 302 and 306 have a higher voltage, then power supplies 302 and 306 are connected, wherein the energy storage device is charged by power supplies 302 and 306. In action 620, if DC power supplies 300 and 304 have a higher voltage, then power supplies 300 and 304 are connected, wherein the energy storage device is charged by power supplies 300 and 304.

[0090] Alternatively, the microcontroller 178 is configured to select the maximum power output from the available power supplies 300, 302, 304, and 306. For example, and referring to... Figure 15BIn actions 622 and 624, the charging power of power supplies 300, 304, 302, and 306 is measured at time intervals. In action 626, if the first power output is greater than the second power output of the second power source and the third power output of the third power source, the microcontroller 178 selects the first power source. Conversely, if the respective power output of the second or third power supply is the maximum, the microcontroller selects the second or third power supply. In actions 618 and 620, DC power supplies 300 and 304 or USB-C power supplies 302 and 306 charge energy storage devices 102 and 1102.

[0091] Alternatively, the microcontroller 178 is configured to select power supplies 300, 302, 304, and 306 that have a voltage closest to the desired final voltage. For example, and referring to... Figure 15C In action 628, the microcontroller is configured to select the first power supply 300, 304 if the first voltage is closer to the desired final charging voltage than the second or third voltage. Conversely, if the corresponding voltage is closest to the desired final voltage, the microcontroller 178 selects the second or third power supply 302, 306. In actions 618 and 620, the DC power supply 300, 304 or the USB-C power supply 302, 306 charges the energy storage devices 102, 1102.

[0092] In terms of function, such as Figure 16 As shown, these processes are performed using a microcontroller 178 and two high-side MOSFETs 310 and 312. In idle mode, the microcontroller 178 continuously samples the voltages at DC charging ports 160 and 220 and USB-C charging ports 162 and 222. When a voltage is applied to any of these ports, energy storage devices 102 and 1102 enter charging mode. If power is applied to multiple charging ports simultaneously, the microcontroller 178 measures the voltage of each power source and determines which power source to use based on one of the three modes described above. The microcontroller 178 then sends a signal to the high-side MOSFETs 310 and 312 to connect the selected power source to the charging controller. This causes the MOSFETs, which act as switches between the power sources, to function like diodes, preventing power from flowing between the two power sources.

[0093] The USB-C controller 184, located in housings 122, 1122 or cavities 166, 1166 (including, for example, mounted on PCBs 176, 1176), coordinates the voltage and current supplied as power to connected devices, or, if energy storage device 102 is connected to an accessory such as a telephone, the voltage and current supplied by the battery pack. The type of device (power source or heat sink) connected to USB-C ports 162, 1162, 222 is determined by the connected device. Power supplies 302, 306 notify the USB-C controller 184 that they are power sources, and accessories seeking power from the battery pack will notify the USB-C controller 184 of this status. This information is then transmitted to microcontroller 178, which is configured to determine how much power to request from the charging source based on battery data or how much power can be supplied to the connected device. The charging decision is made based on battery data such as state of charge, battery or ambient temperature, charger current capability, or desired state of charge from a smartphone application. Users can select the desired state of charging, the desired range capacity of the battery, or the desired charging time in a smartphone application, and the microcontroller will use this information along with battery data to determine the charging speed of the battery, i.e., how quickly to charge the battery.

[0094] The location of the charging controller 182 within the housings 122 and 1122 allows for the use of a single AC-DC power source. The same AC-DC charging source can be used regardless of changes in battery voltage, chemistry, or layout within the energy storage device. Furthermore, integrating the charging controller 182 into and within the energy storage device allows various accessories located elsewhere on the bicycle to communicate with the energy storage device when a wireless communication radio 180 is provided, without requiring a data cable to be connected to the battery. Because charging current control is handled internally, the charging source does not need to possess information about the battery status as in existing chargers.

[0095] Another advantage of having a charging controller 182 integrated into the energy storage devices 102, 1102 is that it allows multiple charging current sources to be connected to the energy storage devices simultaneously. The charging current can come from a DC power source as described above, or it can be supplied from any USB-C power source. This allows consumers to have a single standardized charger for their phones, laptops, and e-bikes.

[0096] In addition, by providing a USB-C controller 182 located in the energy storage devices 102, 1102, the device can also supply power, thereby allowing the energy storage device to be used as a charger for external USB-C accessory devices (including, for example, mobile phones, laptops and / or tablets) connected to the energy storage device.

[0097] The IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) 186 on the energy storage device enables the device to detect performance impact conditions, such as those caused by a fall when not installed in a bicycle. If a sufficiently strong impact is detected, the device can be disabled until additional safety checks can be completed, and / or the indicator 188 can display a specific pattern, frequency, or color to provide a marker of the impact event. In this way, the IMU 186 is configured to measure the acceleration of the energy storage device and housing 122 disposed therein or on the IMU 186.

[0098] Because the charging controller 182 is integrated into the energy storage device, which receives data on energy usage from the drive unit during riding, an estimated energy usage per mile can be calculated. This feature allows users to set a desired range in the application or on the HMI, where the energy storage device 102 is only charged to a level sufficient to achieve that range. This targeted charging helps protect and extend battery health by not fully charging on each charge cycle.

[0099] Energy storage devices 102 and 1102 also facilitate data collection and integration. For example, the user then begins riding using electricity drawn from the energy storage device; the drive unit can record the distance traveled and speed, while the energy storage device records the amount of energy consumed during the ride. The user is then prompted to categorize the ride on an HMI or smartphone app. Potential categories could be commuting, mountain biking, downhill, road riding, etc. If the user does not categorize the ride at this point, they may be prompted at the end of the ride.

[0100] During a ride, energy consumption, distance, and speed data are transmitted via a wireless communication system, including a radio, to a central device for interpretation. This central device can be an energy storage unit, drive unit, HMI, or any other component connected to or communicating with the system. This information is continuously consumed to determine how much energy was used to travel a certain distance at a certain speed. If available, altitude data from sensors such as GPS data from a phone, altimeter, or barometer can be used in this calculation to account for altitude. If the user does not categorize the ride at the start, they can be prompted again at the end. If they do not categorize the ride, the ride metric will be placed in the uncategorized or “single ride” category. Energy consumption per unit distance can be displayed at the end of the ride. This data can be stored on the device via a paired network on the bicycle and in a smartphone app. During a discharge operation, given the user’s current ride type, the system can be used to provide an estimated distance remaining in the battery pack. When a user begins a charging cycle, they can use the smartphone app to select the type of ride they want to take next and how far they want to ride. The energy storage unit receives this information from the app and uses the data from the previous ride to determine how much energy the energy storage unit needs to complete the ride. It can also add energy with a buffer amount that the user can set.

[0101] Another option that can be controlled by an HMI is when the user wants the battery to charge. When a user initiates a charging cycle, they can use a smartphone app to set the desired charging state and completion time. This data will be transmitted to the energy storage device, which will use this information and determine the charging rate that the charger can provide to set a charging current limit to meet the desired final state.

[0102] The system's operation during riding is primarily controlled by the drive unit. An energy storage device is inserted into or mounted on the bicycle, and a battery insertion sensor triggers the energy storage device to begin supplying power to the output terminals. A current limit is set based on battery temperature and state of charge (SBC). This safe discharge current limit is transmitted to the drive unit via a radio 180 / microcontroller 178. During riding, battery temperature, SBC, and any faults are continuously transmitted to the drive unit and HMI for display to the rider. In the event of any fault occurring while riding, this information is sent to the drive unit, allowing for adjustments to the operation to adapt the fault to the HMI. This enables the rider to be aware of the fault displayed via indicator LED 188, and can also be sent to a smartphone application via push notification.

[0103] The battery pack's charging and idle states have additional options for user interaction via a smartphone app and indicator 188 (shown as an LED). When the battery pack is idle, the microcontroller 178 can poll the IMU 186 for physical movement. When the battery pack is moved, installed in or not installed in the bicycle, the indicator LED will illuminate to show the battery pack's state of charge (SOC). In this state, the user can interact with the battery pack and view information stored in it, such as SOC, discharge per distance, total energy consumed, etc. Furthermore, in this state, the user can set a charging percentage target, charging time target, or desired distance target based on the riding type. Then, when a power source is connected, the system can determine how quickly and for how long to charge the battery pack. While charging, the user can view the current SOC by moving the battery pack and activating the indicator LED. They can also open the smartphone app or HMI to view the current SOC and the expected time to complete charging. The user can also choose to receive a push notification when charging is complete.

[0104] PCB assembly 250 includes a substrate 252, which operates to connect and / or provide structures for circuitry and attachment components for the PCB assembly. The substrate 252 may be flexible or rigid. In an embodiment, the substrate 252 is a rigid substrate providing a durable foundation for the PCB assembly 250. The substrate 252 is formed to provide shape and other properties for the PCB assembly 250. In one embodiment, PCB assembly 1250 includes a pair of spaced-apart PCBs 1176, such as... Figures 22 to 24 As shown.

[0105] In alternative embodiments, dedicated hardware implementations (e.g., application-specific integrated circuits, programmable logic arrays, and other hardware devices) may be configured to implement one or more of the methods described herein. Applications that may include various embodiments of the apparatus and systems can broadly encompass a wide range of electronic devices and computer systems. One or more embodiments described herein may be implemented using two or more specific interconnected hardware modules or devices having associated control and data signals that can communicate between and through the modules or as part of an application-specific integrated circuit. Therefore, the system includes software, firmware, and hardware implementations.

[0106] An embodiment of the radio device 180, or communication interface, provides data and / or signal communication from an energy storage device to another part of a bicycle or to an external device such as a mobile phone or other computing device. The communication interface uses any operable connection to transmit data. An operable connection can be a connection in which signals can be sent and / or received, physical communication and / or logical communication can occur. An operable connection can include a physical interface, an electrical interface and / or a data interface. The communication interface can be configured as a wireless communication system that communicates wirelessly and therefore can include one or more antennas. The communication interface provides wireless communication in any format now known or hereafter developed. Although this specification describes components and functions that may be implemented in particular embodiments with reference to specific standards and protocols, the invention is not limited to such standards and protocols. For example, standards used for transmission on the Internet and other packet-switched networks (e.g., TCP / IP, UDP / IP, HTML, HTTP, HTTPS) represent examples of the state of the art. These standards are periodically superseded by faster or more efficient equivalents with substantially the same functionality. Alternatively, other methods may be used... and / or ANT+ TM Standards. Therefore, alternative standards and protocols having the same or similar functionality as those disclosed herein are considered equivalents. In an embodiment, communication interface 90 may be configured to transmit a signal indicating power determined from measured strain of the body. Furthermore, the determined power may be transmitted wirelessly.

[0107] An HMI can be one or more buttons, keypads, keyboards, mice, styluses, trackballs, rocker switches, touchpads, voice recognition circuitry, or other devices or components used to transfer data between a user and an energy storage device. An HMI can be a touchscreen, which can be capacitive or resistive. An HMI can include a liquid crystal display (“LCD”) panel, a light-emitting diode (“LED”) screen, an LED screen, a thin-film transistor screen, or other types of displays. An HMI may also include audio functionality or speakers.

[0108] In one embodiment, the HMI includes LED indicators. The LED indicators are used to indicate input of commands or other actions from the power meter system.

[0109] The HMI is configured to send and / or receive data, such as control signals and / or commands, to and / or from bicycle components such as the rear derailleur 37. The HMI uses any operable connection to transmit data. An operable connection can be a connection in which signals can be sent and / or received, and physical and / or logical communications can be performed. An operable connection can include a physical interface, an electrical interface, and / or a data interface. The HMI provides wireless communication in any format now known or later developed. Although this specification describes components and functions that may be implemented in specific embodiments with reference to particular standards and protocols, the invention is not limited to such standards and protocols. For example, standards used for transmission over the Internet and other packet-switched networks (e.g., TCP / IP, UDP / IP, HTML, HTTP, HTTPS) represent examples of the state of the art. These standards are periodically superseded by faster or more efficient equivalents with substantially the same functionality. Therefore, alternative standards and protocols with the same or similar functionality as those disclosed herein are considered their equivalents.

[0110] According to various embodiments of this disclosure, the methods described herein can be implemented using software programs executable by a computer system, such as a circuit system. Furthermore, in exemplary, non-limiting embodiments, implementations may include distributed processing, component / object distributed processing, and parallel processing. Alternatively, virtual computer system processing may be configured to implement one or more of the methods or functions described herein.

[0111] Computer programs (also known as programs, software, software applications, scripts, or code) can be written in any programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, and can be deployed in any form, including as standalone programs or as modules, components, subroutines, or other units suitable for a computing environment. A computer program does not necessarily correspond to a file in a file system. A program can be stored as a portion of a file that holds other programs or data (e.g., one or more scripts stored in a markup language document), a single file dedicated to the program in question, or multiple coordinating files (e.g., files storing one or more modules, subroutines, or code sections). Computer programs can be deployed to execute on one or more computers, located at a single site or distributed across multiple sites and interconnected via a communication network.

[0112] The processes and logic flows described in this specification can be executed by one or more programmable processors that execute one or more computer programs to perform functions by manipulating input data and generating output. The processes and logic flows can also be executed by special-purpose logic circuitry (e.g., FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) or ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit)), and the apparatus can also be implemented as special-purpose logic circuitry.

[0113] As used in this application, the terms “circuit system” or “circuit” refer to all of the following: (a) a hardware circuit implementation (such as an implementation using only analog and / or digital circuits) and (b) a combination of circuits and software (and / or firmware), such as (applicable to): (i) a combination of (one or more) processors or (ii) a combination of (one or more) processors / software (including (one or more) digital signal processors), software and (one or more) memory, which work together to enable a device (such as a mobile phone or a server) to perform various functions, and (c) a circuit, such as a microprocessor or a portion thereof, which requires software or firmware for operation, even if the software or firmware is not physically present.

[0114] This definition of "circuit system" applies to all uses of the item in this application, including in any claim. As another example, as used in this application, the term "circuit system" will also cover the implementation of a processor (or processors) or a portion thereof and its accompanying software and / or firmware, as well as other electronic components. The term "circuit system" will also cover, for example, suitable baseband integrated circuits or application processor integrated circuits for mobile computing devices, or similar integrated circuits in servers, cellular network devices, or other network devices.

[0115] Processors suitable for executing computer programs include, for example, general-purpose and special-purpose microprocessors, as well as any one or more processors of any kind of digital computer. Typically, the processor receives instructions and data from read-only memory or random access memory, or both. The basic components of a computer are the processor for executing instructions and one or more storage devices for storing instructions and data. Typically, a computer also includes, or is operatively coupled to, receiving data from or transferring data to one or more mass storage devices for storing data, such as magnetic, magneto-optical, or optical discs. However, a computer does not need to have such devices. Furthermore, a computer can be embedded in another device, to name a few, such as a mobile phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a mobile audio player, a global positioning system (GPS) receiver, or a power meter system. Computer-readable media suitable for storing computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, media, and storage devices, including, for example, semiconductor memory devices such as EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices; magnetic disks, such as internal hard disks or removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks. The processor and memory may be supplemented by or incorporated into special-purpose logic circuitry.

[0116] The illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of various embodiments. These illustrations are not intended as a complete description of all elements and features of devices and systems utilizing the structures or methods described herein. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading this disclosure. Other embodiments of this disclosure can be utilized and derived, allowing structural and logical substitutions and changes to be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, the illustrations are merely representative and may not be drawn to scale. Some scales within the illustrations may be exaggerated, while others may be minimized. Therefore, this disclosure and the accompanying drawings are to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0117] While this specification contains numerous details, these details should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention or the claims, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular embodiments of the invention. Certain features described herein in the context of individual embodiments may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented individually or in any suitable sub-combination in multiple embodiments. Furthermore, although features may be described above as functioning in certain combinations and even initially claimed, in some cases, one or more features from the claimed combination may be removed from the combination, and the claimed combination may be for sub-combinations or variations thereof.

[0118] Similarly, although operations and / or actions are shown and described in a specific order in the accompanying drawings, this should not be construed as requiring such operations to be performed in the specific order shown or in an ordered sequence, or to perform all shown operations to achieve the desired result. In some cases, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Furthermore, the separation of various system components in the above embodiments should not be construed as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and it should be understood that any described program components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single software product or packaged into multiple software products.

[0119] One or more embodiments of this disclosure may be referred to herein individually and / or collectively by the term "invention" and are not intended to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any particular invention or inventive concept. Furthermore, although specific embodiments have been shown and described herein, it should be understood that any subsequent arrangements designed to achieve the same or similar purpose may replace the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all subsequent modifications or variations of the various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments and other embodiments not specifically described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading this specification.

[0120] This abstract of disclosure is provided to conform to 37 C. FR § 1.72(b) and is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Additionally, in the foregoing detailed description, various features may be grouped together or described in a single embodiment for the purpose of simplifying this disclosure. This disclosure should not be construed as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the following claims, the subject matter of the invention may relate to fewer features than any of the disclosed embodiments. Therefore, the following claims are incorporated into the detailed description, wherein each claim serves on its own as defining a separately claimed subject matter.

[0121] The foregoing detailed description is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive, and it should be understood that the following claims, including all equivalents, are intended to define the scope of the invention. Unless otherwise stated, the claims should not be construed as limited to the described order or elements. Therefore, all embodiments falling within the scope and spirit of the appended claims and their equivalents are claimed as part of the invention.

[0122] Although embodiments have been described for illustrative purposes, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications, additions, and substitutions are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure. Therefore, the foregoing description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive, and it should be understood that all equivalents and / or combinations of the embodiments and examples are intended to be included in this specification.

[0123] Although certain parts, components, features, and methods of operation and use have been described herein in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure, the scope of this patent is not limited thereto. Rather, this patent covers all embodiments that fall fully within the scope of permissible equivalents of the teachings of this disclosure.

[0124] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 412,899, filed October 4, 2022, entitled “Energy Storage Device for a Bicycle,” the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. An energy storage device for a bicycle, the energy storage device comprising: A housing, the housing including mounting means adapted for mounting to a bicycle; Multiple battery cells are disposed in the housing; A battery management system is disposed within the housing and connected to the plurality of battery cells, wherein the battery management system is configured to monitor the voltage of the plurality of battery cells; A charging controller, disposed within the housing and communicating with the battery management system, wherein the charging controller is connected to the plurality of battery cells and configured to adjust the current supplied to the plurality of battery cells; and A charging port, mounted on the housing and configured for electrical connection to the bicycle drive unit, wherein the charging port includes a USB-C charging port. The energy storage device further includes a USB-C controller disposed in the housing, wherein the USB-C controller is connected to the USB-C charging port and is capable of recognizing devices connected to the USB-C charging port.

2. The energy storage device according to claim 1, wherein, The charging port includes a DC charging port, and the USB-C charging port is mounted on the housing and configured to connect to an external power source.

3. The energy storage device according to claim 2, wherein, The charging port includes a board, wherein the DC charging port and the USB C charging port are both located on the board.

4. The energy storage device of claim 2, further comprising a microcontroller disposed in the housing, wherein the microcontroller is connected to the USB-C controller and the battery management system, wherein the USB-C controller is configured to coordinate whether to supply power to or draw power from the plurality of battery cells.

5. The energy storage device of claim 4, further comprising an inertial measurement unit configured to measure the acceleration of the housing, wherein the inertial measurement unit is disposed in the housing and connected to the microcontroller.

6. The energy storage device according to claim 4, wherein, The microcontroller includes a radio device configured to provide a wireless communication system.

7. The energy storage device according to claim 4, wherein, The microcontroller is configured to select a charging source from a first power source connected to the DC charging port and / or a second power source connected to the USB-C charging port.

8. The energy storage device according to claim 7, wherein, The first power supply has a first voltage and the second power supply has a second voltage, wherein the microcontroller is configured to select the first power supply if the first voltage is greater than the second voltage, and the microcontroller is configured to select the second power supply if the second voltage is greater than the first voltage.

9. The energy storage device according to claim 7, wherein, The first power supply has a first power output and the second power supply has a second power output, wherein the microcontroller is configured to select the first power supply if the first power output is greater than the second power output, and the microcontroller is configured to select the second power supply if the second power output is greater than the first power output.

10. The energy storage device according to claim 7, wherein, The first power supply has a first voltage and the second power supply has a second voltage, wherein the microcontroller is configured to select the first power supply if the first voltage is closer to a desired final charging voltage than the second voltage, and the microcontroller is configured to select the second power supply if the second voltage is closer to the desired final charging voltage than the first voltage.

11. The energy storage device according to claim 1, further comprising: A motor housing, the motor housing including a first support member and a second support member; A protective member pivotally connected to the first support member, wherein the protective member is pivotable between a closed position and an open position, wherein in the closed position the protective member forms at least part of a bridge between the first support member and the second support member, and in the open position the protective member disengages from the second support member and forms an opening between the first support member and the second support member; The assembly includes fasteners and tools, wherein the fasteners secure the housing to the motor housing, and wherein the tools are capable of engaging one of a first mounting feature or a second mounting feature.

12. An energy storage device for a bicycle, the energy storage device comprising: case; Multiple battery cells are disposed in the housing; A battery management system is disposed in the housing and connected to the plurality of battery cells, wherein the battery management system is configured to monitor the voltage of the plurality of battery cells; A charging controller, disposed in the housing and communicating with the battery management system, wherein the charging controller is connected to the plurality of battery cells and configured to adjust the current supplied to the plurality of battery cells; A battery contact connection portion, which is located on the housing and configured to be electrically connected to the bicycle drive unit; as well as The USB-C charging port is located on the housing and is separate from the contact portion with the battery. The energy storage device further includes a USB-C controller disposed in the housing, wherein the USB-C controller is connected to the USB-C charging port and is capable of recognizing devices connected to the USB-C charging port.

13. The energy storage device according to claim 12, wherein, The housing includes a plate, wherein the battery contact connection includes a DC charging port, wherein the DC charging port and the USB C charging port are located together on the plate.

14. The energy storage device according to claim 12, wherein, The housing includes spaced-apart opposing sidewalls and a peripheral wall extending between and connected to the sidewalls, wherein the USB-C charging port is mounted on one of the sidewalls and the battery contact connection is mounted on the peripheral wall.

15. The energy storage device of claim 12, further comprising a microcontroller disposed in the housing, wherein the microcontroller is connected to the USB-C controller and the battery management system, wherein the USB-C controller is configured to coordinate whether to supply power to or draw power from the plurality of battery cells.

16. The energy storage device of claim 15, further comprising an inertial measurement unit configured to measure the acceleration of the housing, wherein the inertial measurement unit is disposed in the housing and connected to the microcontroller.

17. The energy storage device according to claim 15, wherein, The microcontroller includes a radio device configured to provide a wireless communication system.

18. The energy storage device according to claim 15, wherein, The microcontroller is configured to select a charging source from a first power source connected to the battery contact connection and / or a second power source connected to the USB-C charging port.

19. The energy storage device according to claim 18, wherein, The first power supply has a first voltage and the second power supply has a second voltage, wherein the microcontroller is configured to select the first power supply if the first voltage is greater than the second voltage, and the microcontroller is configured to select the second power supply if the second voltage is greater than the first voltage.

20. The energy storage device according to claim 18, wherein, The first power supply has a first power output and the second power supply has a second power output, wherein the microcontroller is configured to select the first power supply if the first power output is greater than the second power output, and the microcontroller is configured to select the second power supply if the second power output is greater than the first power output.

21. The energy storage device according to claim 18, wherein, The first power supply has a first voltage and the second power supply has a second voltage, wherein the microcontroller is configured to select the first power supply if the first voltage is closer to a desired final charging voltage than the second voltage, and the microcontroller is configured to select the second power supply if the second voltage is closer to the desired final charging voltage than the first voltage.

Images