Fully integrated compact power supply module

Abstract

Systems and methods for providing one or more fully integrated compact power modules in a vehicle are disclosed. A fully integrated compact power module is mounted to a vehicle and includes a housing, a battery system disposed in the housing, and a generator disposed in the housing. The battery system selectively supplies power to the generator, at least one component or system of the vehicle, at least one component or system independent of the vehicle, or a combination thereof. The generator selectively combusts one or more fuels to generate electrical power and selectively supplies the generated electrical power to the battery system, at least one component or system of the vehicle, at least one component or system independent of the vehicle, or a combination thereof. The generator also selectively supplies heating or cooling to at least one building, enclosure, or other structure.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to power modules, and more particularly, to a fully integrated, compact power module. Background Art

[0002] Electric and hybrid electric powertrain systems for vehicles typically include a battery system that provides motive power to the vehicle's powertrain, power generation hardware that generates electricity to charge the battery system, and a system controller that controls the operation of the powertrain system. Conventional electric and hybrid electric powertrain systems are typically installed with the battery system either in place of or separate from the power generation hardware. Such replacement or separation complicates installation by requiring additional components, interfaces, or wiring between components or subsystems, and further complicates maintenance and / or testing by limiting access to and / or requiring removal of individual components or subsystems of the powertrain system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] A full and enabling disclosure of the present disclosure, including the best mode thereof, to one of ordinary skill in the art is set forth in the specification with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0004] Figure 1 A schematic side view of a fully integrated compact power module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0005] Figure 2 A schematic side view of a vehicle having one or more fully integrated compact power modules according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0006] Figures 3A to 3G A schematic side view of a vehicle having multiple fully integrated compact power modules according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0007] Figure 4 A schematic side view of a vehicle having multiple fully integrated compact power modules according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0008] Figure 5 A schematic side view of a vehicle having multiple fully integrated compact power modules according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0009] Figure 6 A flow chart of a method of operating a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0010] The use of the same reference symbols in different drawings indicates similar or identical items. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0011] Reference will now be made in detail to the present embodiments of the present disclosure, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The detailed description uses numerical and letter references to refer to features in the drawings. Like or similar reference numbers in the drawings and description have been used to refer to like or similar parts of the present disclosure.

[0012] Now referring to the accompanying drawings, Figure 1 A schematic side view of a fully integrated compact power module 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The fully integrated compact power module (hereinafter referred to as "power module") 100 may generally include a housing 102, a battery system 104 disposed in the housing, and a generator 106 disposed in the housing. In some embodiments, the power module 100 may include a cooling system 108 coupled to the generator 106. In addition, in some embodiments, the power module 100 may also include a system controller 110 configured to control the operation of the power module 100.

[0013] The housing 102 may generally be configured to be mounted to a vehicle, a structure, or a combination thereof. The housing 102 includes one or more inlets 112 that may allow airflow 114 to enter the housing 102 and reach the generator 106. In some embodiments, the one or more inlets 112 may be oriented toward the main direction of travel of the vehicle on which the power module 100 is installed. Thus, during vehicle travel, the one or more inlets 112 may operate as a forced air inlet. The housing 102 includes one or more outlets 116 that may allow airflow 114 to escape from the housing 102. In some embodiments, the one or more outlets 116 may be disposed on a side of the housing 102 that is different from the one or more inlets 112. The housing 102 may also include one or more exhaust outlets 118, through which exhaust or emissions 120 from the generator 106 may escape from the housing 102. In some embodiments, the housing 102 may include one or more electrical ports 122, through which the battery system 104 may supply electricity, the generator 106 may supply generated electricity, or a combination thereof.

[0014] The battery system 104 can generally be arranged in the housing 102 and is configured to selectively supply power to at least one component or system. The battery system 104 may include one or more batteries or battery packs 124. In some embodiments, each battery or battery pack 124 may include a plurality of battery cells. The battery pack 124 may be configured to store power and deliver power when needed. It should be understood that the battery pack 124 may be electrically connected in parallel, electrically connected in series, or a combination thereof, depending on the application, construction, and / or voltage requirements of the component or system to which the battery system 104 can provide power. In some embodiments, the battery pack 124 may be arranged on one or more sides of the generator 106. In some embodiments, the battery pack 124 may be arranged on a single side of the generator 106. However, in other embodiments, the battery pack 124 may be arranged on multiple sides of the generator 106. For example, the battery pack 124 may be arranged on the top, bottom, front, rear, left, and / or right side of the generator 106.

[0015] The battery system 104 may also include a battery management controller 126. The battery management controller 126 may be configured to selectively control the amount of power supplied from the one or more battery packs 124. The battery management controller 126 may also be disposed in the housing 102.

[0016] In some embodiments, the battery system 104 may also include a battery cooling system 128 to regulate the temperature of the one or more battery packs 124. The battery cooling system 128 may include one or more battery cooling heat exchangers 130. The one or more battery cooling heat exchangers 130 may be configured to remove heat from the battery system 104 and / or the battery packs 124 by facilitating heat exchange with the surrounding environment and / or airflow passing through the one or more battery cooling heat exchangers 130. In some embodiments, the one or more battery cooling heat exchangers 130 may be disposed within the housing 102 and proximate to one or more outlets 116 in the housing 102. In some embodiments, the one or more battery cooling heat exchangers 130 may be disposed outside the housing 102.

[0017] The battery system 104 can generally be configured to supply electricity to at least one component or system of the vehicle, at least one component or system independent of the vehicle, or a combination thereof through one or more electrical ports 122. In some embodiments, at least one component of the vehicle may be a drive train component of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the drive train component of the vehicle may be a generator 106, one or more motors / generators (M / G) coupled to one or more drive shafts of the vehicle and configured to provide power to propel the vehicle through one or more drive shafts, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least one component of the vehicle may be a non-drive train component of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the non-drive train component of the vehicle may be an auxiliary power unit (APU) of the vehicle, a heating, ventilation and cooling (HVC) system of the vehicle, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least one component or system independent of the vehicle may be an external electronic device, another electric or hybrid electric vehicle, a building or other structure, a power grid, or a combination thereof.

[0018] The generator 106 may generally be disposed in the housing 102, coupled to the battery system 104, and configured to selectively combust one or more fuels to generate electricity to charge the battery system 104. In some embodiments, the generator 106 may include a fuel agnostic generator and may be configured to combust compressed natural gas, diesel, hydrogen, liquefied petroleum gas, or any combination thereof to generate electricity to charge the battery system 104. In some embodiments, the generator 106 may include one or more fuel inlets 132, through which one or more fuels may enter the generator 106 for combustion. In some embodiments, the generator 106 may include a zero-emission generator. In some embodiments, the emissions 120 from the generator 106 may include only carbon dioxide, nitrogen, water, or a combination thereof. The generator 106 may exhaust the emissions 120 through an exhaust system 134. In some embodiments, the exhaust system 134 may include one or more exhaust pipes extending through one or more exhaust outlets 118 of the housing 102. However, in alternative embodiments, the generator 106 may include a hydrogen fuel cell.

[0019] The generator 106 can generally be configured to selectively burn one or more fuels to generate electricity, and supply the generated electricity to at least one component or system of the vehicle, at least one component or system independent of the vehicle, or a combination thereof through one or more electrical ports 122. In some embodiments, at least one component of the vehicle can be a transmission component of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the transmission component of the vehicle can be a battery system 104, one or more drive shafts connected to the vehicle and configured to provide power to propel the vehicle through one or more drive shafts. One or more motors / generators (M / G), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least one component of the vehicle can be a non-transmission component of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the non-transmission component of the vehicle can be an auxiliary power unit (APU) of the vehicle, a heating, ventilation and cooling (HVC) system of the vehicle, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, at least one component or system independent of the vehicle can be an external electronic device, another electric or hybrid electric vehicle, a building or other structure, a power grid, or a combination thereof.

[0020] The generator 106 may also be configured to selectively supply heating or cooling to at least one building, housing, or other structure. In some embodiments, the generator 106 may be configured to supply the generated electricity to at least one component or system of the vehicle, to at least one component or system independent of the vehicle, or a combination thereof, and to simultaneously supply heating to at least one building, housing, or other structure. In addition, in some embodiments, it should be understood that the power module 100 may include a plurality of generators 106 disposed in the housing 102, coupled to the battery system 104, and configured to combust one or more fuels to generate electricity to charge the battery system 104.

[0021] The power module 100 may also include a cooling system 108 configured to regulate the operating temperature of the generator 106. The cooling system 108 may include one or more heat exchangers 136 configured to remove heat generated by the generator combusting one or more fuels by facilitating heat exchange with the surrounding environment and / or air flow passing through the heat exchanger 136. In some embodiments, the one or more heat exchangers 136 may be disposed within the housing 102 and proximate to one or more outlets 116 in the housing 102. In some embodiments, the one or more heat exchangers 136 may be disposed outside the housing 102.

[0022] The power module 100 may also include a system controller 110 that executes instructions to control the operation of the power module 100. In some embodiments, the system controller 110 may execute instructions to selectively control the delivery of power from the battery system 104 and generated power from the generator 106 to at least one component or system of the vehicle, to at least one component or system independent of the vehicle, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the system controller 110 may execute instructions to selectively control the delivery of power based on: a destination; a location; a route; a grade of road; a terrain; a proximity of a refueling station to a destination, location, and / or route; a state of charge (SoC) of the battery system 104; or any combination thereof.

[0023] In some embodiments, the system controller 110 may also execute instructions to selectively control the delivery of heating or cooling to at least one building, housing, or other structure. In addition, in some embodiments, the system controller 110 may execute instructions to selectively control which of the one or more fuels the generator 106 burns. In some embodiments, the system controller 110 may execute instructions to control the operation of the powertrain of the vehicle in which the power module 100 is installed. In some embodiments, the system controller 110 may also execute instructions to control the operation of the entire vehicle in which the power module 100 is installed. In some embodiments, the system controller 110 may be disposed in the housing 102. However, in some embodiments, the system controller 110 may be disposed outside the housing 102.

[0024] The power module 100 is generally capable of autonomous operation. The power module 100 can be configured to be mounted to and operated in a vehicle, a building, an enclosure, or other structure, or a combination thereof. The power module 100 can also be operated in a vertical, horizontal, or inclined position. By combining the battery system 104, the generator 106, and the optional system controller 110 in the housing 102, a fully integrated compact power module 100 is achieved. The compact design of the power module 100 can simplify installation, maintenance, and / or troubleshooting by allowing greater access to individual components or subsystems, and further enabling rapid removal and replacement of the entire power module 100 when necessary.

[0025] Figure 2A schematic side view of a vehicle 200 having one or more fully integrated compact power modules 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In some embodiments, the vehicle 200 may include a truck or a truck / trailer combination and include a chassis 202 including a plurality of frame rails, a cab 204 supported by the chassis 202, a front axle 206, and one or more rear drive shafts 208. In some embodiments, the vehicle 200 may include one or more motor / generators (M / G) 210 coupled to one or more of the drive shafts 208 of the vehicle 200 and configured to provide power through the one or more drive shafts 208 to propel the vehicle 200. In some embodiments, the vehicle 200 may include one or more fuel tanks 212 storing one or more fuels to supply to the power module 100. In some embodiments, the vehicle 200 may also include one or more fuel connection ports 214 for receiving one or more fuels into the one or more fuel tanks 212. In some embodiments, the vehicle 200 may include one or more electrical ports 216 to deliver power from the power module 100 to at least one component or system independent of the vehicle 200. In some embodiments, the vehicle 200 may include an auxiliary power unit (APU), a heating, ventilation, and cooling (HVC) system, or a combination thereof.

[0026] The vehicle 200 may include a system controller 220, which may be an electronic control unit (ECU). In some embodiments, the system controller 220 may execute instructions to control the operation of the power module 100, the power train of the vehicle 200, and / or the entire vehicle 200. In some embodiments, the system controller 220 may control the operation of the vehicle 200, while each of the system controllers 110 controls the operation of its corresponding power module 100. In some embodiments with multiple power modules 100, one of the system controllers 110 may operate as a master system controller to control the operation of the power module 100, the power train of the vehicle 200, and / or the entire vehicle 200, while the system controllers 110 of the other power modules 100 may operate as slave system controllers. However, in other embodiments, only one power module 100 may include a system controller 110 that controls the operation of the power module 100, the power train of the vehicle 200, and / or the entire vehicle 200.

[0027] The system controller 220 may execute instructions to control the operation of the power module 100, the operation of the powertrain of the vehicle 200, and / or the operation of the entire vehicle 200. The system controller 220 and / or the system controller 110 of the power module 100 may execute instructions to selectively control the delivery of power from the battery system 104 and / or the generated power from the generator 106 to internal or external systems or components. The system controller 220 and / or the system controller 110 of the power module 100 may execute instructions to selectively control the delivery of power based on the following conditions: destination; location; route; road grade; terrain; proximity of a gas station to the destination, location, and / or route; state of charge (SoC) of the battery system; or any combination thereof. The system controller 220 and / or the system controller 110 of the power module 100 may execute instructions to selectively control the delivery of heating or cooling to at least one building, enclosure, or other structure. Additionally, the system controller 220 and / or the system controller 110 of the power module 100 may execute instructions to selectively control which of the one or more fuels the generator 106 of the power module 100 combusts.

[0028] In operation, one or more power modules 100 may supply power from the battery system 104 and / or generated power from the generator 106 to at least one component or system of the vehicle 200, at least one component or system independent of the vehicle 200, or a combination thereof through one or more electrical ports 216. In some embodiments, the at least one component of the vehicle 200 may include a power train component of the vehicle 200, a non-power train component of the vehicle 200, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the power train component of the vehicle 200 may include the battery system 104, the generator 106 or the power module 100 of the power module 100, one or more motor / generators (M / G) 210 coupled to one or more rear drive shafts 208 of the vehicle 200, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the non-power train component of the vehicle 200 may include an auxiliary power unit (APU) of the vehicle 200, a heating, ventilation, and cooling (HVC) system of the vehicle 200, or a combination thereof.

[0029] In some embodiments, at least one component or system independent of vehicle 200 may include an external electronic device, another electric or hybrid electric vehicle, a building or other structure, an electrical grid, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, electrical port 216 may be configured to receive a connection from an external electronic device, another electric or hybrid electric vehicle, a building or other structure, an electrical grid, or a combination thereof to receive power from power module 100. Thus, in some embodiments, electrical port 216 may include a standard electrical outlet, an electric or hybrid electric vehicle charging port, an A / C power outlet port, an electrical grid connection port, or a combination thereof.

[0030] The power module 100 may also be configured to selectively supply heating or cooling to at least one building, housing, or other structure. In some embodiments, the power module 100 may supply power from the battery system 104 and / or power generated from the generator 106 to at least one component or system of the vehicle 200, at least one component or system independent of the vehicle 200, or a combination thereof, and simultaneously supply heating to at least one building, housing, or other structure. The heating from the power module 100 may be generated by the generator 106 of the power module 100 burning one or more fuels, and the generated heat may be supplied by the exhaust system 134 of the generator 106 of the power module 100. Cooling may be generated by powering the generator 106 with power from the battery system 104 without burning one or more fuels, wherein the cooling may be supplied by the exhaust system 134 of the generator 106 of the power module 100.

[0031] The power module 100 may be mounted to the chassis 202 of the vehicle 200. In some embodiments, the power module 100 may be disposed outside the frame rails of the chassis 202 of the vehicle 200. In some embodiments, the power module 100 may be disposed toward the rear of the cab 204 of the vehicle 200. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the power module 100 may be disposed on each of the left and right sides of the vehicle 200.

[0032] Figures 3A to 3G Schematic side views of vehicles 300A-300G having multiple fully integrated compact power modules 100 according to embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. Vehicles 300A-300G may be substantially similar to vehicle 200 and include one or more power modules 100 that may operate in a substantially similar manner to the power modules 100 on vehicle 200. Vehicles 300A-300G show the power modules 100 installed at various locations on the vehicle. Figure 3A A vehicle 300A is shown with the power module 100 mounted to a chassis 302 of the vehicle 300A, disposed outboard of a frame rail of the chassis 302 of the vehicle 300A and toward the front of a cab 304 of the vehicle 300A. In some embodiments, the power module 100 may include a step 306 formed in the housing 102 to assist a driver in entering and exiting the vehicle 300A. Figure 3B A vehicle 300B is shown in which the power modules 100 are mounted to a chassis 302 of the vehicle 300B, disposed between frame rails of the chassis 302, and disposed below a cab 304 of the vehicle 300B. In some embodiments, one power module 100 may be disposed in front of a second power module 100. Figure 3CA vehicle 300C is shown with the power modules 100 mounted to the chassis of the vehicle 300C, disposed between frame rails of the chassis 302 and beneath the center tunnel of the cab 304 of the vehicle 300C. In some embodiments, one power module 100 may be disposed on top of a second power module 100. Figure 3D A vehicle 300D is shown in which the power module 100 is disposed below a bed in a sleeping portion of a cab 304 of the vehicle 300D. In some embodiments, one power module 100 may be disposed in front of a second power module 100. Figure 3E The vehicle 300E is shown with the power module 100 disposed against a rear wall of a sleeper portion of a cab 304 of the vehicle 300E. In some embodiments, one power module 100 may be disposed on top of a second power module 100. Figure 3F The vehicle 300F is shown with the power modules 100 disposed horizontally across the rear of the cab 304 of the vehicle 300F. In some embodiments, one power module 100 may be disposed on top of a second power module 100. Figure 3G Vehicle 300G is shown with power module 100 disposed vertically across the rear of cab 304 of vehicle 300G. While various embodiments of vehicles 300A through 300G are shown, it should be understood that power module 100 may be disposed in any combination of the arrangements described above.

[0033] Figure 4 A schematic side view of a vehicle 400 with a plurality of fully integrated compact power modules 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In some embodiments, the vehicle 400 may include a trailer or an enclosed trailer and include a chassis 402 having a plurality of frame rails, a housing portion 404 supported by the chassis 402, and one or more axles 406. In some embodiments, the vehicle 400 may be towed by a vehicle 200, 300A, 300B, 300C, 300D, 300E, 300F, 300G. In some embodiments, the power module 100 may be disposed between the frame rails of the chassis 402, below the frame rails, below the housing portion 404, in front of the housing portion 404, at the rear of the housing portion 404, on the side of the housing portion 404, inside the housing portion 404, or a combination thereof.

[0034] In some embodiments, the vehicle 400 may include one or more fuel tanks (not shown) storing one or more fuels to supply to the power module 100. In some embodiments, the vehicle 400 may also include one or more fuel connection ports 414 for receiving one or more fuels into one or more fuel tanks (not shown) on the vehicle 400. In some embodiments, the vehicle 400 may include one or more electrical ports 416 to deliver power from the power module 100 to at least one component or system independent of the vehicle 400. In some embodiments, the vehicle 400 may include one or more heating or cooling ducts 418 of the exhaust system 134 coupled to each of the generators 106 of the power module 100, and the power module 100 selectively supplies heating or cooling to at least one building, housing, or other structure through the one or more heating or cooling ducts 418. In addition, in some embodiments, the vehicle 400 may also include a system controller 420 that controls the power module 100 and / or the vehicle 400. However, in some embodiments, a system controller 220 of a tractor vehicle (such as any of the vehicles 200 , 300A, 300B, 300C, 300D, 300E, 300F, 300G) may control the power module 100 .

[0035] Figure 5 A schematic side view of a vehicle 500 with multiple fully integrated compact power modules 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In some embodiments, the vehicle 500 may include a trailer-type cargo container or any other trailer-type housing or structure, and includes a chassis 502 with multiple frame rails, a housing portion 504 supported by the chassis 502, and one or more axles 506. In some embodiments, the vehicle 500 may be towed by a vehicle 200, 300A, 300B, 300C, 300D, 300E, 300F, 300G. In some embodiments, the power module 100 may be disposed between the frame rails of the chassis 502, below the frame rails, below the housing portion 504, in front of the housing portion 504, at the rear of the housing portion 504, on the side of the housing portion 504, inside the housing portion 504, or a combination thereof.

[0036] In some embodiments, the vehicle 500 may include one or more fuel tanks (not shown) storing one or more fuels to supply to the power module 100. In some embodiments, the vehicle 500 may also include one or more fuel connection ports 514 for receiving one or more fuels into one or more fuel tanks (not shown) on the vehicle 500. In some embodiments, the vehicle 500 may include one or more electrical ports 516 to deliver power from the power module 100 to at least one component or system independent of the vehicle 500. In some embodiments, the vehicle 500 may include one or more heating or cooling ducts 518 of the exhaust system 134 coupled to each of the generators 106 of the power module 100, and the power module 100 selectively supplies heating or cooling to at least one building, housing, or other structure through the one or more heating or cooling ducts 518. In addition, in some embodiments, the vehicle 500 may also include a system controller 520 that controls the power module 100 and / or the vehicle 500. However, in some embodiments, a system controller 220 of a tractor vehicle (such as any of the vehicles 200 , 300A, 300B, 300C, 300D, 300E, 300F, 300G) may control the power module 100 .

[0037] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the power module 100 can operate in a substantially similar manner to the power module 100 on the vehicle 200. The power module 100 can supply power from the battery system 104 and / or generated power from the generator 106 to at least one component or system of the vehicle 400, 500, independent of at least one component or system of the vehicle 400, 500, or a combination thereof through one or more electrical ports 416, 516. In some embodiments, the at least one component or system independent of the vehicle 400, 500 may include an external electronic device, another electric or hybrid electric vehicle, a building or other structure, an electrical grid, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the electrical ports 416, 516 may be configured to receive a connection from an external electronic device, another electric or hybrid electric vehicle, a building or other structure, an electrical grid, or a combination thereof to receive power from the power module 100. Therefore, in some embodiments, the electrical ports 416, 516 may include a standard electrical outlet, an electric or hybrid electric vehicle charging port, an A / C power outlet port, an electrical grid connection port, or a combination thereof.

[0038] The power module 100 may also be configured to selectively supply heating or cooling to at least one building, housing, or other structure. In some embodiments, the power module 100 may supply power from the battery system 104 and / or generated power from the generator 106 to at least one component or system of the vehicle 400, 500, independently of at least one component or system of the vehicle 400, 500, or a combination thereof, and simultaneously supply heating to at least one building, housing, or other structure. In some embodiments, the power module 100 may supply heating or cooling to at least one building, housing, or other structure through one or more heating or cooling ducts 418, 518 coupled to the exhaust system 134 of each of the generators 106 of the power module 100. In some embodiments, the heating or cooling from each of the power modules 100 may be discharged directly into the housing 404, 504 from the exhaust system 134 of each of the generators 106 of the power module 100 to provide a climate-controlled housing 404, 504. Providing and maintaining a climate-controlled housing 404, 504 may be performed during road travel and at rest.

[0039] Figure 6A flow chart of a method 600 of operating a vehicle 200, 300A, 300B, 300C, 300D, 300E, 300F, 300G, 400, 500 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The method 600 may begin at block 602 by providing a fully integrated compact power module 100, the power module 100 including: a housing 102; a battery system 104 disposed in the housing 102 and configured to selectively supply power to at least one component or system; and a generator 106 disposed in the housing 102, coupled to the battery system 104, and configured to combust one or more fuels to generate electricity to charge the battery system 104. The method 600 may continue at block 604 by one or more of: operating the generator 106 to combust one or more fuels to generate electricity, heat, or a combination thereof; supplying the generated electricity to the battery system 104 through one or more electrical ports 122, at least one component or system of the vehicle 200, 300A, 300B, 300C, 300D, 300E, 300F, 300G, 400, 500, independent of at least one of the vehicles 200, 300A, 300B, 300C, 300D, 300E, 300F, 300G, 400, 500; component or system, or a combination thereof; supplying power from the battery system 104 to the generator 106 through one or more electrical ports 122, at least one component or system of the vehicle 200, 300A, 300B, 300C, 300D, 300E, 300F, 300G, 400, 500, independent of at least one component or system of the vehicle 200, 300A, 300B, 300C, 300D, 300E, 300F, 300G, 400, 500, or a combination thereof; and supplying cooling from the generator 106 to at least one building, enclosure, or other structure.

[0040] Further aspects are provided by the subject matter of the following clauses:

[0041] A fully integrated compact power module comprises: a housing; a battery system disposed in the housing and configured to selectively supply power to at least one component or system; and a generator disposed in the housing, connected to the battery system, and configured to selectively burn one or more fuels to generate electricity to charge the battery system.

[0042] A power module as described in any preceding clause, wherein the housing is configured to be mounted to a vehicle, a structure, or a combination thereof.

[0043] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the housing comprises one or more inlets for allowing air flow into the housing.

[0044] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the one or more inlets are oriented towards a primary direction of travel.

[0045] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause wherein the one or more inlets operate as forced air inlets during travel.

[0046] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the housing comprises one or more outlets to allow the airflow to escape from the housing.

[0047] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the one or more outlets are provided on a different side of the housing to the one or more inlets.

[0048] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the housing comprises one or more exhaust outlets.

[0049] A power module according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the housing comprises one or more electrical ports, the battery system supplies the power to at least one component or system through the one or more electrical ports, the generator generates the power for at least one component or system through the one or more electrical ports, or a combination thereof.

[0050] A power module according to any preceding clause, wherein the battery system comprises one or more batteries or battery packs.

[0051] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the one or more batteries or battery packs are provided on one or more sides of the generator.

[0052] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the one or more batteries or battery packs are provided on a single side of the generator.

[0053] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the one or more batteries or battery packs are provided on multiple sides of the generator.

[0054] A power module according to any preceding clause, wherein the battery system includes a battery management controller configured to selectively control the amount of power supplied from the one or more batteries or battery packs.

[0055] A power module according to any preceding clause, wherein the battery management controller is disposed in the housing.

[0056] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the battery system comprises a battery cooling system for regulating the temperature of the one or more batteries or battery packs.

[0057] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the battery cooling system comprises one or more battery cooling heat exchangers.

[0058] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the one or more battery cooling heat exchangers are disposed externally to the housing.

[0059] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the one or more battery cooling heat exchangers are disposed within the housing and proximate one or more outlets in the housing.

[0060] A power module according to any preceding clause, wherein the battery system is configured to supply the power through the one or more electrical ports to at least one component or system of the vehicle, at least one component or system independent of the vehicle, or a combination thereof.

[0061] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the at least one component of the vehicle is a power train component of the vehicle.

[0062] A power module according to any preceding clause, wherein the driveline components of the vehicle include the generator, one or more electric motor / generators (M / G) coupled to one or more drive shafts of the vehicle and configured to provide power through the one or more drive shafts to propel the vehicle, or a combination thereof.

[0063] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the at least one component of the vehicle is a non-power train component of the vehicle.

[0064] A power module as described in any preceding clause, wherein the non-power train components of the vehicle include an auxiliary power unit (APU) of the vehicle, a heating, ventilation and cooling (HVC) system of the vehicle, or a combination thereof.

[0065] A power module as described in any preceding clause, wherein the at least one component or system independent of the vehicle comprises an external electronic device, another electric or hybrid electric vehicle, a building or other structure, an electrical grid, or a combination thereof.

[0066] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the generator comprises a fuel independent generator.

[0067] A power module according to any preceding clause, wherein the fuel-independent generator is configured to combust compressed natural gas, diesel, hydrogen, liquefied petroleum gas, or any combination thereof to generate electricity to charge the battery system.

[0068] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein emissions from the generator comprise only carbon dioxide, nitrogen, water or a combination thereof.

[0069] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the generator is configured to exhaust the emissions through an exhaust system.

[0070] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the exhaust system comprises one or more exhaust pipes extending through the one or more exhaust outlets of the housing.

[0071] A power module according to any preceding clause, wherein the generator is configured to supply generated electricity to at least one component or system of the vehicle, at least one component or system independent of the vehicle, or a combination thereof through the one or more electrical ports.

[0072] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the at least one component of the vehicle is a power train component of the vehicle.

[0073] A power module according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the powertrain components of the vehicle include the battery system, one or more electric motor / generators (M / G) connected to one or more drive shafts of the vehicle and configured to provide power through the one or more drive shafts to propel the vehicle, or a combination thereof.

[0074] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the at least one component of the vehicle is a non-power train component of the vehicle.

[0075] A power module as described in any preceding clause, wherein the non-power train components of the vehicle include an auxiliary power unit (APU) of the vehicle, a heating, ventilation and cooling (HVC) system of the vehicle, or a combination thereof.

[0076] A power module as described in any preceding clause, wherein the at least one component or system independent of the vehicle comprises an external electronic device, another electric or hybrid electric vehicle, a building or other structure, an electrical grid, or a combination thereof.

[0077] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the generator is configured to selectively supply heating or cooling to at least one building, enclosure or other structure.

[0078] A power module as described in any preceding clause, wherein the generator is configured to supply generated electricity to at least one component or system of the vehicle, at least one component or system independent of the vehicle, or a combination thereof, and simultaneously supply heating to at least one building, enclosure or other structure.

[0079] The power module according to any of the preceding clauses, further comprising: a plurality of generators disposed in the housing, coupled to the battery system, and configured to combust one or more fuels to generate electricity to charge the battery system.

[0080] A power module as recited in any preceding clause, further comprising a cooling system coupled to the generator and configured to regulate an operating temperature of the generator.

[0081] A power module as described in any preceding clause, wherein the cooling system comprises one or more heat exchangers configured to remove heat generated by the generator combusting the one or more fuels.

[0082] A power module as described in any preceding clause, wherein the one or more heat exchangers are disposed externally to the housing.

[0083] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the one or more heat exchangers are disposed within the housing and proximate one or more outlets in the housing.

[0084] The power module of any preceding clause, further comprising: a system controller that executes instructions to control the operation of the power module.

[0085] A power module as described in any preceding clause, wherein the system controller executes instructions to selectively control the delivery of power from the battery system and the generated power from the generator to at least one component or system of the vehicle, independent of at least one component or system of the vehicle, or a combination thereof.

[0086] A power module as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the system controller executes instructions to selectively control power delivery based on: a destination; a location; a route; a road grade; a terrain; the proximity of a gas station to the destination, the location and / or the route; the state of charge (SoC) of the battery system; or any combination thereof.

[0087] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the system controller executes instructions to selectively control the delivery of heating or cooling to the at least one building, enclosure or other structure.

[0088] A power module as described in any preceding clause, wherein the system controller executes instructions to selectively control which of the one or more fuels is combusted by the generator.

[0089] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the system controller is disposed in the housing.

[0090] A power module as described in any preceding clause, wherein the power module is capable of operating autonomously.

[0091] A power module according to any preceding clause, wherein the power module is configured to be mounted to and operated in a vehicle, building, enclosure, or other structure, or a combination thereof.

[0092] A power module as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the power module is operable in a vertical, horizontal or inclined position.

[0093] A vehicle comprises: one or more fully integrated compact power modules, each power module comprising: a housing; a battery system, the battery system being disposed in the housing and being configured to selectively supply power to at least one component or system of the vehicle, at least one component or system independent of the vehicle, or a combination thereof; and a generator, the generator being disposed in the housing, coupled to the battery system, and being configured to selectively burn one or more fuels to generate power to charge the battery system.

[0094] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the housing is configured to be mounted to the vehicle.

[0095] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause wherein the housing comprises one or more inlets for allowing airflow into the housing.

[0096] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause wherein the one or more inlets are oriented towards a primary direction of travel of the vehicle.

[0097] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause wherein the one or more inlets are operable as forced air inlets during travel of the vehicle.

[0098] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause wherein the housing comprises one or more outlets to allow the airflow to escape from the housing.

[0099] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause wherein the one or more outlets are provided on a different side of the housing to the one or more inlets.

[0100] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause wherein the housing includes one or more exhaust outlets.

[0101] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the battery system comprises one or more batteries or battery packs.

[0102] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause wherein the one or more batteries or battery packs are provided on one or more sides of the generator.

[0103] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause wherein the one or more batteries or battery packs are provided on a single side of the generator.

[0104] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause wherein the one or more batteries or battery packs are provided on multiple sides of the generator.

[0105] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the battery system includes a battery management controller configured to selectively control the amount of power supplied from the one or more batteries or battery packs.

[0106] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the battery management controller is disposed in the housing.

[0107] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause wherein the battery system includes a battery cooling system for regulating the temperature of the one or more batteries or battery packs.

[0108] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the battery cooling system comprises one or more battery cooling heat exchangers.

[0109] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause wherein the one or more battery cooling heat exchangers are disposed externally to the housing and on the vehicle.

[0110] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause wherein the one or more battery cooling heat exchangers are disposed within the housing proximate one or more outlets in the housing.

[0111] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the battery system is configured to supply the power through the one or more electrical ports to at least one component or system of the vehicle, at least one component or system independent of the vehicle, or a combination thereof.

[0112] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause wherein the at least one component of the vehicle is a driveline component of the vehicle.

[0113] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the driveline components of the vehicle include the generator, one or more electric motor / generators (M / G) coupled to one or more drive shafts of the vehicle and configured to provide power through the one or more drive shafts to propel the vehicle, or a combination thereof.

[0114] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause wherein the at least one component of the vehicle is a non-powertrain component of the vehicle.

[0115] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the non-power train components of the vehicle include an auxiliary power unit (APU) of the vehicle, a heating, ventilation and cooling (HVC) system of the vehicle, or a combination thereof.

[0116] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the at least one component or system independent of the vehicle comprises an external electronic device, another electric or hybrid electric vehicle, a building or other structure, an electrical grid, or a combination thereof.

[0117] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the generator comprises a fuel independent generator.

[0118] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the fuel-independent generator is configured to combust compressed natural gas, diesel, hydrogen, liquefied petroleum gas, or any combination thereof to generate electricity to charge the battery system.

[0119] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause wherein emissions from the generator comprise only carbon dioxide, nitrogen, water or a combination thereof.

[0120] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause wherein the generator is configured to exhaust the emissions through an exhaust system.

[0121] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause wherein the exhaust system comprises one or more exhaust pipes extending through the one or more exhaust outlets of the housing.

[0122] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the generator is configured to supply generated electricity to at least one component or system of the vehicle, at least one component or system independent of the vehicle, or a combination thereof through the one or more electrical ports.

[0123] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause wherein the at least one component of the vehicle is a driveline component of the vehicle.

[0124] A vehicle as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the powertrain components of the vehicle include the battery system, one or more electric motor / generators (M / G) connected to one or more drive shafts of the vehicle and configured to provide power through the one or more drive shafts to propel the vehicle, or a combination thereof.

[0125] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause wherein the at least one component of the vehicle is a non-powertrain component of the vehicle.

[0126] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the non-power train components of the vehicle include an auxiliary power unit (APU) of the vehicle, a heating, ventilation and cooling (HVC) system of the vehicle, or a combination thereof.

[0127] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the at least one component or system independent of the vehicle comprises an external electronic device, another electric or hybrid electric vehicle, a building or other structure, an electrical grid, or a combination thereof.

[0128] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the generator is configured to selectively supply heating or cooling to at least one building, enclosure or other structure.

[0129] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the generator is configured to supply generated electricity to at least one component or system of the vehicle, independent of at least one component or system of the vehicle, or a combination thereof, and simultaneously supply heating to at least one building, enclosure or other structure.

[0130] The vehicle according to any preceding clause, further comprising: a plurality of generators disposed in the housing, coupled to the battery system, and configured to combust one or more fuels to generate electricity to charge the battery system.

[0131] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, further comprising a cooling system coupled to the generator and configured to regulate an operating temperature of the generator.

[0132] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the cooling system includes one or more heat exchangers configured to remove heat generated by combustion of the one or more fuels by the generator.

[0133] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause wherein the one or more heat exchangers are disposed externally to the housing.

[0134] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause wherein the one or more heat exchangers are disposed within the housing and proximate one or more outlets in the housing.

[0135] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, further comprising: a system controller that executes instructions to control operation of the power module.

[0136] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the system controller executes instructions to selectively control the delivery of power from the battery system and generated power from the generator to at least one component or system of the vehicle, independent of at least one component or system of the vehicle, or a combination thereof.

[0137] A vehicle as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the system controller executes instructions to selectively control power delivery based on: a destination; a location; a route; a road grade; a terrain; the proximity of a gas station to the destination, the location and / or the route; a state of charge (SoC) of the battery system; or any combination thereof.

[0138] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the system controller executes instructions to selectively control the delivery of heating or cooling to the at least one building, enclosure or other structure.

[0139] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the system controller executes instructions to selectively control which of the one or more fuels is combusted by the generator.

[0140] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause wherein the system controller executes instructions to control operation of the powertrain of the vehicle.

[0141] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the system controller further executes instructions to control operation of the vehicle.

[0142] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause wherein the system controller is disposed in the housing.

[0143] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the vehicle includes one or more electrical ports to deliver the power from the battery system, the generated power from the generator, or a combination thereof to at least one component or system independent of the vehicle.

[0144] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the electrical port is configured to receive a connection from an external electronic device, another electric or hybrid electric vehicle, a building or other structure, an electrical grid, or a combination thereof to receive the power from the battery system, the generated power from the generator, or a combination thereof.

[0145] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the electrical port comprises a standard electrical outlet, an electric or hybrid electric vehicle charging port, an A / C power outlet port, a grid connection port, or a combination thereof.

[0146] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the vehicle includes one or more heating or cooling ports or ducts connected to the exhaust system of each of the one or more generators to selectively supply heating or cooling to at least one building, enclosure or other structure.

[0147] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause wherein heating or cooling from each of said one or more power modules is exhausted directly from the exhaust system of each of said one or more generators into said housing.

[0148] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the housing comprises an enclosed trailer, cargo container or other housing in which the one or more power modules are installed.

[0149] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein heat is generated by combustion of the one or more fuels by the generator, and wherein heat is supplied through the exhaust system of the generator.

[0150] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein cooling is generated by the battery system powering the generator without combusting the one or more fuels, and wherein cooling is supplied through the exhaust system of the generator.

[0151] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the vehicle includes one or more fuel tanks storing one or more fuels to supply the one or more fuels to the generator.

[0152] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the vehicle comprises one or more fuel connection ports for receiving the one or more fuels into the one or more fuel tanks.

[0153] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the power module is configured to be mounted to the vehicle, and wherein the power module is operable in a vertical, horizontal or inclined position.

[0154] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the vehicle comprises a truck comprising a plurality of power modules.

[0155] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause wherein the power module is mounted to the chassis of the truck.

[0156] A vehicle as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the power module is disposed outside of the frame rails of the chassis, disposed between the frame rails of the chassis, disposed between the frame rails of the chassis and below the center tunnel of the truck's cab, disposed below the bed of the berth portion of the cab, disposed against a rear wall of the berth portion of the cab, disposed horizontally across the rear of the cab, disposed vertically across the rear of the cab, or a combination thereof.

[0157] A vehicle as claimed in any preceding clause, wherein the vehicle comprises a trailer, enclosed trailer or trailer-type cargo container containing a plurality of power modules.

[0158] A vehicle as described in any preceding clause, wherein the power module is mounted to a chassis of the trailer, a shell portion of the trailer, or a combination thereof.

[0159] A vehicle as described in any of the preceding clauses, wherein the power module is disposed between frame rails of the chassis, below the frame rails, below the housing portion, in front of the housing portion, at the rear of the housing portion, on the side of the housing portion, within the housing portion, or a combination thereof.

[0160] A method for operating a vehicle including one or more fully integrated compact power modules, comprising: providing a fully integrated compact power module, the fully integrated compact power module comprising: a housing; a battery system, the battery system being disposed in the housing and being configured to selectively supply power to at least one component or system; and a generator, the generator being disposed in the housing, connected to the battery system, and being configured to combust one or more fuels to generate power to charge the battery system; and one or more of the following: operating the generator to combust one or more fuels to generate power, heating, or a combination thereof; supplying the generated power to the battery system, at least one component or system of the vehicle, at least one component or system independent of the vehicle, or a combination thereof through one or more electrical ports; supplying the power from the battery system to the generator, at least one component or system of the vehicle, at least one component or system independent of the vehicle, or a combination thereof through the one or more electrical ports; and supplying cooling from the generator to at least one building, housing, or other structure.

[0161] Please note that not all activities or features described in the detailed description or examples above are required, that a portion of a particular activity or feature may not be required, and that one or more further activities or features may be performed in addition to the activities or features described. Furthermore, the order in which the activities are listed is not necessarily the order in which the activities may be performed.

[0162] In the foregoing description, concepts have been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims. Therefore, the description and drawings should be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the invention.

[0163] As used herein, the terms "comprises," "including," "having," or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of features is not necessarily limited to only those features, but may also include other features not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. In addition, unless expressly stated otherwise, "or" refers to an inclusive or, not an exclusive or. For example, condition A or B is satisfied by any of the following: A is true (or exists) and B is false (or does not exist), A is false (or does not exist) and B is true (or exists), and both A and B are true (or exists).

[0164] In addition, "a" or "an" is used to describe elements and components described herein. This is merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the scope of the invention. The description should be understood to include one or at least one, and the singular also includes the plural unless it is obvious that it has another meaning.

[0165] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with respect to one or more specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any features that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more obvious should not be construed as key, required, or essential features of any or all claims.

[0166] After reading the specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that, for clarity, certain features described herein in the context of separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, for brevity, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be provided separately or in any sub-combination. In addition, references to values ​​stated in ranges include every value within that range.

[0167] This written description uses examples to disclose the present disclosure, including the best mode, and also enables any person skilled in the art to practice the present disclosure, including making and using any device or system and performing any combined methods. The patent scope of the present disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. If these other examples include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that do not differ substantially from the literal language of the claims, these other examples are intended to fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A fully integrated compact power module, characterized in that: include: case; a battery system disposed in the housing and configured to selectively supply power to at least one component or system, the battery system comprising one or more batteries or battery packs; as well as A fuel-independent generator is disposed in the housing, the fuel-independent generator is connected to the battery system and is adjacent to the one or more batteries or battery packs, and the fuel-independent generator is further constructed to selectively burn one or more fuels to generate electricity to charge the battery system.

2. The fully integrated compact power module according to claim 1, characterized in that in, The housing is configured to be mounted to a vehicle, a structure, or a combination thereof.

3. The fully integrated compact power module according to claim 1, characterized in that in, The housing includes one or more inlets for allowing airflow to enter the housing, one or more outlets for allowing the airflow to escape from the housing, and one or more exhaust outlets, wherein the one or more inlets are oriented toward the main direction of travel, and wherein the one or more outlets are disposed on a side of the housing different from the one or more inlets.

4. The fully integrated compact power module according to claim 1, characterized in that: in, The housing includes one or more electrical ports, the battery system supplies the power to at least one component or system through the one or more electrical ports, the fuel-independent generator supplies the generated power to at least one component or system through the one or more electrical ports, or a combination thereof.

5. The fully integrated compact power module according to claim 1, characterized in that: in, The battery system includes a battery management controller configured to selectively control the amount of the power supplied from the one or more batteries or battery packs, the battery management controller being disposed in the housing.

6. The fully integrated compact power module according to claim 1, characterized in that: in, The battery system includes a battery cooling system for regulating the temperature of the one or more batteries or battery packs.

7. The fully integrated compact power module according to claim 6, characterized in that in, The battery cooling system includes one or more battery cooling heat exchangers.

8. The fully integrated compact power module according to claim 1, characterized in that: in, The battery system is configured to supply the electrical power through the one or more electrical ports to at least one component or system of the vehicle, at least one component or system independent of the vehicle, or a combination thereof.

9. The fully integrated compact power module according to claim 1, characterized in that: Further included are: a plurality of fuel-independent generators disposed in the housing, coupled to the battery system, and configured to combust one or more fuels to generate electricity to charge the battery system.

10. The fully integrated compact power module according to claim 1, characterized in that Further including: A cooling system is coupled to the fuel-independent generator and is configured to regulate an operating temperature of the fuel-independent generator.

11. The fully integrated compact power module according to claim 10, characterized in that in, The cooling system includes one or more heat exchangers configured to reject heat generated by the combustion of the one or more fuels by the fuel-independent generator.

12. The fully integrated compact power module according to claim 1, characterized in that Further including: A system controller executes instructions to control the operation of the fully integrated compact power module.

13. A vehicle, characterized in that: include: One or more fully integrated compact power modules, each fully integrated compact power module comprising: case; a battery system disposed in the housing and configured to selectively supply power to at least one component or system of the vehicle, to at least one component or system independent of the vehicle, or a combination thereof, the battery system comprising one or more batteries or battery packs; and A fuel-independent generator is disposed in the housing, coupled to the battery system, and configured to selectively combust one or more fuels to generate electricity to charge the battery system.

14. The vehicle according to claim 13, characterized in that in, The housing is configured to be mounted to the vehicle.

15. The vehicle according to claim 13, characterized in that in, The housing includes one or more inlets for allowing airflow to enter the housing, one or more outlets for allowing the airflow to escape from the housing, and one or more exhaust outlets, wherein the one or more inlets are oriented toward the main direction of travel, and wherein the one or more outlets are disposed on a side of the housing different from the one or more inlets.

16. The vehicle according to claim 13, characterized in that in, The housing includes one or more exhaust outlets.

17. The vehicle according to claim 13, characterized in that in, The battery system includes a battery management controller configured to selectively control the amount of power supplied from the one or more batteries or battery packs.

18. The vehicle according to claim 13, characterized in that in, The battery system includes a battery cooling system for regulating the temperature of the one or more batteries or battery packs, wherein the battery cooling system includes one or more battery cooling heat exchangers.

19. The vehicle according to claim 13, characterized in that Further including: A plurality of generators are disposed in the housing, coupled to the battery system, and configured to combust one or more fuels to generate electricity to charge the battery system.

20. The vehicle according to claim 13, characterized in that Further including: A cooling system is coupled to the generator and configured to regulate an operating temperature of the generator, wherein the cooling system includes one or more heat exchangers configured to remove heat generated by the generator combusting the one or more fuels.

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