Automatically activated portable power supply

Abstract

Provided is an automatically activated portable power supply. The portable power supply includes a power source, a socket electrically coupled to the power source and configured to be connected to a load, and an electronic processor coupled to the power source and the socket. The electronic processor is configured to automatically activate the socket in response to a state of charge (SOC) of the power source satisfying an automatic activation threshold.

Description

[0001] Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 583,343, filed on September 18, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a portable power supply, and more particularly to a portable power supply with an automatic start function. Summary of the invention

[0004] One embodiment provides a portable power supply, which may include a power supply, and a socket electrically coupled to the power supply and configured to be connected to a load. The portable power supply may also include an electronic processor coupled to the power supply and the socket. The electronic processor may be configured to control the charging of the power supply using power provided by an external power supply. The electronic processor may also be configured to enable an automatic start function. When the automatic start function is enabled, the electronic processor may be configured to disable the socket in response to a state of charge (SOC) of the power supply being lower than a low battery threshold, and automatically re-enable the socket in response to the SOC of the power supply increasing to above the automatic start threshold during charging. The automatic start threshold may be greater than the low battery threshold. The electronic processor may also be configured to disable the automatic start function. When the automatic start function is disabled, the electronic processor may be configured to disable the socket in response to the SOC of the power supply being lower than a low battery threshold, and keep the socket disabled in response to the SOC of the power supply increasing to above the automatic start threshold during charging.

[0005] In addition to any combination of the foregoing features, the portable power supply may also include a user interface communicatively coupled to the electronic processor. The electronic processor may be further configured to control the user interface to provide an indication that the automatic start function of the portable power supply is enabled in response to the automatic start function being enabled and while the automatic start function remains enabled.

[0006] In addition to any combination of the above features, the electronic processor may be further configured to receive an updated threshold via user input received via the user interface, and update the auto-start threshold based on the updated threshold.

[0007] In addition to any combination of the above features, the electronic processor may be further configured to receive a command via user input received via the user interface, and to control enabling or disabling of the auto-start function based on the command.

[0008] In addition to any combination of the above features, the portable power supply may further include a wireless communication device. The electronic processor may be communicatively coupled to the wireless communication device and may be further configured to receive an updated threshold from an external device via the wireless communication device and update the automatic start threshold according to the updated threshold.

[0009] In addition to any combination of the above features, the portable power supply may further include a wireless communication device. The electronic processor may be communicatively coupled to the wireless communication device and may be further configured to receive a command from an external device via the wireless communication device and control whether to enable or disable the automatic start function of the portable power supply based on the command.

[0010] Another embodiment provides a portable power supply, which may include a power source, and a socket electrically coupled to the power source and configured to be connected to a load. The portable power supply may also include an electronic processor coupled to the power source and the socket. The electronic processor may be configured to automatically enable the socket in response to a state of charge (SOC) of the power source satisfying an automatic start threshold.

[0011] In addition to any combination of the foregoing features, the portable power supply may further include a user interface communicatively coupled to the electronic processor. The electronic processor may be further configured to, in response to the auto-start function being enabled, and while the auto-start function remains enabled, control the user interface to provide an indication that the auto-start function of the portable power supply is enabled. The electronic processor may be configured to automatically enable the socket in response to the SOC of the power supply satisfying the auto-start threshold when the auto-start function is enabled.

[0012] In addition to any combination of the above features, the electronic processor may be further configured to receive an updated threshold via user input received via the user interface, and update the auto-start threshold based on the updated threshold.

[0013] In addition to any combination of the above features, the electronic processor may be further configured to receive a command via user input received via the user interface, and to control enabling or disabling of the auto-start function based on the command.

[0014] In addition to any combination of the above features, the portable power supply may also include a housing configured to accommodate a power source and an electronic processor. The socket may be located on the housing. The jack may be disposed on the housing and electrically coupled to the power source. The external power source may be coupled to the jack via a power cord. The jack may be configured to facilitate charging the power source.

[0015] In addition to any combination of the above features, the portable power supply may further include a wireless communication device. The electronic processor may be communicatively coupled to the wireless communication device and may be further configured to receive an updated threshold from an external device via the wireless communication device and update the automatic start threshold according to the updated threshold.

[0016] In addition to any combination of the above features, the portable power supply may further include a wireless communication device. The electronic processor may be communicatively coupled to the wireless communication device, and may be further configured to receive commands from an external device via the wireless communication device, and to control whether to enable or disable an automatic start function of the portable power supply based on the commands. The electronic processor may be configured to automatically enable the socket in response to the SOC of the power source satisfying an automatic start threshold when the automatic start function is enabled.

[0017] In addition to any combination of the above features, the receptacle may be configured to provide alternating current (AC) to the load.

[0018] In addition to any combination of the above features, the power source may further include a plurality of battery cells.

[0019] In addition to any combination of the above features, the electronic processor may be further configured to determine an SOC of the power source while the power source is charging.

[0020] In addition to any combination of the foregoing features, the electronic processor can be configured to enable an auto-start function. When the auto-start function is enabled, the electronic processor can be configured to disable the outlet in response to the SOC of the power source being below a low battery threshold, and automatically re-enable the outlet in response to the SOC of the power source increasing above the auto-start threshold during charging. The auto-start threshold can be greater than the low battery threshold.

[0021] In addition to any combination of the above features, the electronic processor can be configured to disable the auto-start function. When the auto-start function is disabled, the electronic processor can be configured to: disable the outlet in response to the SOC of the power source being below a low battery threshold, and keep the outlet disabled in response to the SOC of the power source increasing above the auto-start threshold during charging.

[0022] Another embodiment provides a method of controlling a portable power supply. The method may include electrically connecting a power supply of the portable power supply to an external power supply. The method may also include charging the power supply using power provided by the external power supply. The method may also include automatically enabling a socket of the portable power supply with an electronic processor of the portable power supply in response to a state of charge (SOC) of the power supply satisfying an automatic start threshold. The power socket may be electrically connected to the power supply and may be configured to be connected to a load.

[0023] In addition to any combination of the foregoing features, the method may further include enabling, with the electronic processor, an auto-start function that utilizes an auto-start threshold. When the auto-start function is enabled, the method may include disabling, with the electronic processor, the socket in response to the state of charge (SOC) of the power source being below a low battery threshold, and automatically re-enabling, with the electronic processor, the socket in response to the SOC of the power source increasing above the auto-start threshold during charging. The auto-start threshold may be greater than the low battery threshold. The method may also include disabling, with the electronic processor, the auto-start function. When the auto-start function is disabled, the method may include disabling, with the electronic processor, the socket in response to the SOC of the power source being below a low battery threshold, and keeping the socket disabled with the electronic processor in response to the SOC of the power source increasing above the auto-start threshold during charging.

[0024] Other features and aspects of the disclosure will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] Figure 1 is a front elevation view of a portable power supply according to embodiments disclosed herein.

[0026] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Detailed perspective view of a portable power supply showing the socket panel removed.

[0027] Figure 3 Shown Figure 1 User interface of a portable power supply.

[0028] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 1 0026] Simplified block diagram of an example power flow for a portable power supply of FIG.

[0029] Figure 5 Shown Figure 1 Hardware diagram of a portable power supply.

[0030] Figure 6 Shown Figure 1 A flow chart of a method for a portable power supply to provide power based on an input to engage an auto-start function. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] Before explaining any embodiments of the present disclosure in detail, it should be understood that the subject matter is not limited in its application to the construction details and component arrangements set forth in the following description or shown in the following figures. The subject matter can have other embodiments and can be practiced or implemented in various ways. In addition, it should be understood that the words and terms used herein are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered restrictive.

[0032] A battery-powered portable power supply ("portable power supply") is used to power or charge electrical loads such as power tools, computers, mobile phones, etc. instead of a gas generator. The portable power supply may include various sockets, such as an alternating current (AC) socket, a universal serial bus (USB), a 12-volt socket, etc. A power button is provided on the portable power supply to turn the portable power supply on or off. When the portable power supply is turned on, the socket is enabled so that power from the portable power source can be used to power the connected load. When the portable power supply is turned off, the socket is disabled so that power cannot be provided from the socket. The power button allows a user to selectively turn the portable power supply on or off.

[0033] The portable power supply may include a simultaneous charging and discharging function, wherein the battery of the portable power supply may be charged and discharged simultaneously. The simultaneous charging and discharging function allows the availability of the portable power supply to be increased, so that downtime due to charging of the portable power supply may be reduced.

[0034] When powering a load, a portable power supply may automatically shut down, i.e., disable the outlet when the battery reaches a low voltage threshold. In these cases, the user will have to use the power button to turn the power supply on before the power supply can be used to output power again. Therefore, there is a need for a portable power supply that automatically starts.

[0035] Figure 1 and Figure 2An embodiment of a portable power supply 100 is shown. The portable power supply 100 is suitable for providing power at a remote location (e.g., a construction site). In the case where a permanent power supply (e.g., mains power (e.g., a power grid outlet)) is not available (or is not within reach) and power is needed to operate power tools, the portable power supply 100 can provide power to be used for these tools. The portable power supply 100 can provide alternating current (AC) power for tools (e.g., corded drills, saws, etc.) and battery charging units and / or provide DC power for direct current (DC) powered tools. The portable power supply 100 includes a housing 110, a socket panel assembly 120, one or more DC sockets 130, a jack 140, and a user interface panel 150. The socket panel assembly 120, one or more DC sockets 130, the jack 140, and the user interface panel 150 are provided / set on the housing 110. The housing 110 can be made of a durable material (e.g., metal, plastic, etc.) that can withstand scratches, dents, or other similar wear common on construction sites. The outlet panel assembly 120 includes one or more electrical outlets 160. In the illustrated example, the one or more electrical outlets 160 include an alternating current (AC) power outlet similar to a wall outlet. In some examples, the outlet 160 may include other types of outlets. The outlet panel assembly 120 may be a modular outlet panel assembly that may be replaced by another outlet panel assembly 120 having a similar or different outlet 160 configuration. The DC outlet 130 and the electrical outlet 160 may be collectively referred to as outlets 130, 160 or electrical outlets 130, 160.

[0036] The one or more DC outlets 130 include, for example, a universal serial bus (USB) outlet (e.g., USB-C, USB-A, mini USB, etc.), a 12 volt outlet, etc. The jack 140 may include or accommodate a power cord that can be plugged into a wall outlet to receive the main AC power for charging the portable power supply 100. The housing 110 may form a cavity 170. The power supply 180 is accommodated in the cavity 170. The power supply 180 may include a plurality of battery cells, such as lithium-ion battery cells, etc. In some examples, the power supply 180 includes a battery core having a plurality of battery cells. The plurality of battery cells may be connected in a series-parallel configuration based on the desired output voltage of the portable power supply 100. In one example, the plurality of battery cells are connected in a 28S5P configuration. The 28S5P configuration includes five (5) battery cells connected in series and parallel, each string of battery cells including twenty-eight (28) battery cells connected in series. Other configurations may be used depending on the desired output voltage, capacity, and other relevant factors. In some examples, power source 180 can include a removable battery pack instead of or in addition to the battery cells. The removable battery pack can include a power tool battery pack.

[0037] Figure 3An embodiment of a user interface panel 150 is shown, which includes a display 210, an on / off switch 220 (e.g., a main power switch 220), and an AC output button 230. The display 210 provides an operator with indications related to the portable power supply 100, such as the state of charge (SOC) of the internal power supply 180, operating time, temperature, instantaneous or average power output, charging state, discharge state, AC output frequency, fault conditions, etc. The user interface panel 150 includes various controls (e.g., buttons, switches, displays, indicators, etc.) to allow the operator to control the operation of the portable power supply 100. The display 210 includes one or more light emitting diode (LED) indicators configured to illuminate and display various indications as described above. In some embodiments, the display 210 is a liquid crystal display (LCD), an LED display, an organic LED (OLED) display, an electroluminescent display (ELD), a surface conduction electron emitter display (SED), a field emission display (FED), a thin film transistor (TFT) LCD, an electronic ink (e-ink) display, etc.

[0038] Depending on the current state of the device, the on / off switch 220 can be actuated to turn the portable power supply 100 on or off. In some embodiments, the user can enable the automatic start function by continuing to actuate, for example, the on / off switch 220, the AC output button 230, or another button (e.g., a USB output button), or by pressing a certain combination of these and other buttons for a certain threshold time (e.g., pressing the on / off switch 220 for 5 seconds) simultaneously or sequentially. Icon 240 indicates the state of the automatic start function. For example, the icon 240 can be provided when the automatic start function is enabled, and not provided when the automatic start function is disabled. In other words, the icon 240 can be illuminated (e.g., in a constant light manner or in a flashing manner) in response to the automatic start function being enabled and when the automatic start function remains enabled. In some cases, the automatic start function can be disabled based on the state of the portable power supply 100 (e.g., when the AC load exceeds a threshold value, or when the internal temperature or battery temperature exceeds a threshold value).

[0039] The AC output button 230 can be actuated to enable the AC inverter. For example, the user can first press the on / off switch 220, and then press the AC output button 230 to enable the AC output. In some embodiments, the portable power supply 100 may not include the AC output button 230, and the user can enable the AC output by only pressing the on / off switch 220. In some embodiments, additional buttons (e.g., USB output buttons, etc.) can be provided on the interface panel 150. The USB output button can be actuated to enable a USB socket (e.g., DC socket 130). In some embodiments, the portable power supply 100 may not include the display 210. In the illustrated embodiment, the user interface panel 150 is positioned near the first side wall of the housing 110. In other embodiments, the user interface panel 150 can be positioned at other locations, including inside the cavity 170.

[0040] In some embodiments, the portable power supply 100 may include a wireless transceiver (see Figure 5 ) for wirelessly transmitting commands and data between the portable power supply 100 and an external device (e.g., a smart phone, a tablet computer, a cellular phone, a laptop computer, a smart watch, etc.). In these embodiments, the user interface panel 150 can be integrated with (or reflect) the use of a wireless communication protocol (e.g., ) in a mobile application that communicates with the portable power supply 100.

[0041] Figure 4 1 is a simplified block diagram showing an example power flow 300 of the power supply 100. The portable power supply 100 is connected to the power supply 100 using a power cord via the jack 140 (see Figure 2 ) is connected to an AC wall outlet 310 (e.g., an external power source). The AC power received from the AC wall outlet 310 is provided to the core charger 320 to charge the power supply 180. In some examples, the core charger 320 may include an AC to DC converter for converting AC power into DC power to charge the power supply 180. The DC power from the power supply 180 is provided to the inverter 330. The inverter 330 converts the DC power from the power supply 180 to provide it to the socket 160. The socket 160 is used to power an electrical load 340 (e.g., a power tool). In the illustrated example, the power supply 180 is capable of charging and discharging simultaneously. However, in some cases, the pass-through power cannot flow directly from the jack 140 to the socket 160. Therefore, the power supply 180 can be charged while providing output power to the connected electrical load 340. In some examples, when the power cord is plugged into a 120VAC power source (e.g., an AC wall outlet 310), the portable power supply 100 automatically (i.e., without user input) charges.

[0042] In other examples, a bypass path can be provided between jack 140 and receptacle 160 to provide pass-through power to receptacle 160 when power source 180 is charging. In some examples, power output from power source 180 can be terminated during charging of power source 180.

[0043] Figure 5 A hardware schematic 400 of a portable power supply 100 is shown, which includes a cell charger 320 communicatively coupled to a controller 450, a plurality of sensors 410, a power converter 420, a plurality of indicators 430, and a wireless communication device 440. The controller 450 controls the cell charger 320 to charge the power source 180. For example, the controller 450 controls the power conversion and charging scheme (e.g., constant voltage, constant current, etc.) of the cell charger 320 to charge the power source 180. The sensor 410 is configured to sense electrical characteristics of the power supply 100 (e.g., voltage of the power source 180, state of charge (SOC) of the power source 180, current output of the power supply 100, temperature of the power supply 100, etc.).

[0044] The power converter 420 includes an inverter 330 and a DC to DC converter 425. The inverter 330 provides an AC output to, for example, an electrical outlet 160. The inverter 330 includes a power switch network having a plurality of switches (e.g., field effect transistors "FET"). The controller 450 controls the plurality of switches using, for example, a pulse width modulation (PWM) control signal provided to the gates of the plurality of switches. The controller 450 controls the inverter 330 to convert the DC power from the power supply 180 into the AC power to be provided through the electrical outlet 160. The DC to DC converter 425 may include a flyback converter, an active clamp flyback converter, a boost / buck converter, etc., for converting the DC power of a first voltage from the power supply 180 into a DC power of a second voltage to be provided to the DC outlet 130. The electrical components of the power supply 100 may be powered using an input from the jack 140 or the power supply 180.

[0045] The indicator 430 receives a control signal from the controller 450 to generate a visual signal to convey information about the operation or state of the portable power supply 100 to the user. The indicator 430 may be provided, for example, on the user interface panel 150. The indicator 430 may generate various signals indicating, for example, the operating state or mode of the portable power supply 100 (e.g., enabling the auto-start function via the icon 240), abnormal conditions or events detected during the operation of the portable power supply 100, and the like.

[0046] The controller 450 is electrically and / or communicatively connected to various modules or components of the portable power supply 100. In some embodiments, the controller 450 includes a plurality of electrical and electronic components that provide power, operational control, and protection to the components and modules within the controller 450 and / or the portable power supply 100. For example, the controller 450 includes, among other things, an electronic processor 500 (e.g., a microprocessor, a microcontroller, an electronic processor, or another suitable programmable device), a memory 510, an input unit 520, and an output unit 530. The electronic processor 500 includes, among other things, a control unit 540, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU) 550, and a plurality of registers 560. In some embodiments, the controller 450 is partially or fully implemented on a semiconductor (e.g., a field programmable gate array (FPGA) semiconductor) chip or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) such as a chip developed through a register transfer level (RTL) design process. Although the electronic processor 500 is shown as a component of the controller 450, in some cases, the controller 450 itself may be referred to as an electronic processor. The controller 450 may have additional or alternative components and / or may be implemented in a manner similar to that of the controller 450. Figure 5 The components are arranged in different ways.

[0047] The controller 450 is configured to obtain and execute instructions related to the control process and method described herein from the memory 510. For example, the memory 510 includes a program storage area 570 and a data storage area 580. The program storage area 570 and the data storage area 580 may include a combination of different types of memory, such as a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM) (e.g., a dynamic RAM (DRAM), a synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), etc.), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a flash memory, a hard disk, an SD card or other suitable magnetic storage device, an optical storage device, a physical storage device or an electronic storage device. The controller 450 is connected to the memory 510 and executes software instructions, which can be stored in the RAM of the memory 510 (e.g., during execution), the ROM of the memory 510 (e.g., on a generally permanent basis) or another non-transient computer-readable medium such as another memory or disk. The software included in the embodiment of the portable power supply 100 can be stored in the memory 510 of the controller 450. Software includes, for example, firmware, one or more applications, program data, filters, rules, one or more program modules, and other executable instructions.

[0048] The wireless communication device 440 is coupled to the controller 450. The wireless communication device 440 may include, for example, a wireless transceiver and antenna, a memory, a processor, and a real-time clock. The radio transceiver and antenna operate together to send wireless messages to and receive wireless messages from external devices, as described above. The memory of the wireless communication device 440 stores instructions to be implemented by the processor of the wireless communication device 440 and / or may store data related to the communication between the portable power supply 100 and the external device. The processor of the wireless communication device 440 controls the wireless communication between the portable power supply 100 and the external device (e.g., a smart phone running a mobile application related to the portable power supply 100). For example, the processor of the wireless communication device 440 buffers incoming and / or outgoing data, communicates with the controller 450, and determines the communication protocol and / or settings to be used in the wireless communication.

[0049] In some embodiments, the wireless communication device 440 is Controller. Controller uses The wireless communication device 440 may be configured to communicate via Wi-Fi over a wide area network (e.g., the Internet or a local area network) or via a micro-network (e.g., using infrared or near field communication (NFC)). The communication via the wireless communication device 440 may be encrypted to protect the data exchanged between the portable power supply 100 and the external device from being affected by a third party.

[0050] In some cases, the external device configured to communicate with the portable power supply 100 may include a device described herein. Figure 5 Those components described have similar components with similar functions. For example, the external device may include a controller similar to controller 450 and a wireless communication device 440 similar to wireless communication device 440. In addition, the external device may include a display similar to user interface panel 150. In some cases, the display may include a touch screen.

[0051] In some embodiments, the controller 450 is configured to control whether the automatic start function of the portable power supply is enabled or disabled. For example, during the charging of the power supply 180, when the SOC of the power supply 180 reaches the automatic start threshold, the automatic start function can automatically turn on the portable power supply 100 (e.g., providing AC or DC power through the socket 160) using the automatic start threshold. In some embodiments, the automatic start threshold is set at the time of manufacturing. In some cases, the automatic start threshold can be set to 10%, 15%, 20%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90, 95% or more. In some embodiments, the automatic start threshold is configurable. For example, the automatic start threshold can be set / updated by the operator via the user interface panel 150 or by an external device (e.g., via a mobile application) communicating via the wireless communication device 440.

[0052] In some embodiments, the controller 450 is configured to engage the auto-start function when the portable power supply 100 is plugged into a power source (e.g., mains power is coupled to the receptacle 140 via a power cord or other power transmission means), regardless of whether the portable power supply 100 is turned on or off (e.g., regardless of the actuation state of the on / off switch 220). In some embodiments, the controller 450 is configured to engage the auto-start function upon receiving a command from the user interface panel 150 or an external device. In some embodiments, the controller 450 is configured to engage the auto-start function when the on / off switch 220 is engaged for a certain threshold time (e.g., 5 seconds).

[0053] In some embodiments, the operator can disable the auto-start function via the user interface panel 150 or via an external device (e.g., provide a command to the controller 450). In some embodiments, the user interface panel 150 is configured to display an icon 240 indicating that the auto-start function is enabled. The user interface panel 150 can be configured to not display the icon 240 when the auto-start function is disabled, thereby indicating that the auto-start function is disabled. In some cases, the user interface panel 150 can display a different icon or a modified version of the icon 240 (e.g., a line or "X" through the icon 240) to indicate that the auto-start function is disabled.

[0054] The automatic start function allows the portable power supply 100 to automatically cycle charge and discharge continuously. As an example, when the SOC of the power supply 180 reaches the set automatic start threshold, the controller 450 enables the power output to the socket 160 to provide power (turn on the portable power supply 100). The controller 450 can control the power supply 180 to charge and discharge at the same time. Power is provided through the socket 160 until the power supply 180 is discharged to below a predetermined threshold (e.g., fully discharged). When the power supply 180 is discharged to below a predetermined threshold (e.g., fully discharged), the controller 450 disables the socket 160. The power supply 180 continues to charge until the automatic start threshold (e.g., 80% of the SOC) is met again, at which time the controller 450 enables the socket 160 to provide power again. The cycle can then be repeated. In one example, the controller 450 uses the inverter 330 (or the power converter 420) to enable and disable the sockets 130, 160. For example, the controller 450 disables the control of the power converter 420 components to disable the sockets 130, 160. In some examples, a discharge control switch (e.g., a FET) may be provided between the power converter 420 and the sockets 130, 160. The controller 450 disables the sockets 130, 160 by opening the discharge control switch to prevent power flow between the power converter 420 and the sockets 130, 160. The controller 450 enables the sockets 130, 160 by closing the discharge control switch. In some examples, instead of enabling and disabling all sockets 130, 160 using the automatic start function, a subset of the sockets 130, 160 may be enabled and disabled using the automatic start function. The subset of the sockets 130, 160 enabled and disabled using the automatic start function may be selected via user input on the user interface panel 150 and / or via user input on an external device.

[0055] Figure 6 A flow chart of an example method 600 is depicted. The example method 600 may be performed as described above with respect to Figures 1 to 5 The example method 600 generally illustrates in greater detail how the portable power supply 100 may be configured to provide power via the electrical outlets 130, 160 when implementing an auto-start function (eg, after receiving an input for engaging the auto-start function).

[0056] For the sake of clarity, the following description generally describes Figures 1 to 5Example method 600 in the context of . The electronic processor that performs method 600 may include any one or combination of electronic processors located within a single device or distributed among various devices and / or systems (e.g., portable power supply 100, external devices, etc.). Therefore, in the claims, if protection is claimed for an apparatus or system that, for example, includes an electronic processor or other element that is configured in some manner to, for example, make multiple determinations, then the claim or claim element should be interpreted as referring to one or more electronic processors (or other elements), any of which is configured as claimed to, for example, make some or all of the multiple determinations. Again, these electronic processors and processing may be distributed within a single device or among multiple devices. Although in Figure 6 A specific order of processing steps, message reception and / or message sending is indicated as an example, but the timing and order of such steps, reception and sending may be varied where appropriate without negating the purposes and advantages of the examples detailed throughout the remainder of the present disclosure.

[0057] The method is described as being performed by the controller 450 of the portable power supply 100. However, it should be understood that the method 600 can be performed as appropriate, for example, by any other suitable system, environment, software and hardware, or a combination of systems, environments, software and hardware. In some embodiments, the various operations of the method 600 can be run in parallel, in combination, in a loop or in any order. In some embodiments, the various operations are optional. For example, in some cases, the portable power supply 100 is configured to continuously implement the automatic start function without receiving input.

[0058] At box 602, method 600 includes receiving an input to enable the automatic start function using controller 450. In some examples, the automatic start function is enabled using on / off switch 220 by continuously maintaining (e.g., actuating) the on / off switch 220 for a certain threshold time (e.g., 5 seconds). In other examples, the automatic start function is enabled using an external device (e.g., by providing a user input to a display of the external device when the external device is running a mobile application associated with the portable power supply 100). In some examples, the automatic start function can be automatically enabled unless the user turns it off via user input. In other words, in some cases, method 600 does not include box 602, and the automatic start function can be enabled by default unless the user turns it off / disabled via user input on the user interface panel 150 and / or via user input on the external device. Method 600 proceeds from box 602 to box 604.

[0059] At block 604, method 600 includes using controller 450 to determine whether the SOC of power source 180 is above an auto-start threshold and whether jack 140 is plugged into a power source. Controller 450 compares the SOC of power source 180 to an auto-start threshold (e.g., 80%). In some examples, the voltage of power source 180 may be used as a substitute for SOC. For example, controller 450 compares an open circuit voltage or a closed circuit voltage of power source 180 to a voltage threshold to determine whether SOC is above the auto-start threshold. Controller 450 also determines whether jack 140 is plugged into a power source (e.g., an AC wall outlet) (i.e., whether jack 140 is electrically connected to the power source to receive power from the power source). Controller 450 may determine that jack 140 is plugged into a power source based on detecting an input current through jack 140. When (i) SOC is above (or equal to) the auto-start threshold (i.e., the auto-start threshold is met) and (ii) jack 140 is plugged into a power source, method 600 proceeds to block 606. When the SOC is below the auto-start threshold or when the jack 140 is not plugged into a power source, the method 600 proceeds to block 608. In some examples, the auto-start threshold is user selectable. The updated auto-start threshold may be received via user input at the user interface panel 150 or an external device. The controller 450 receives the updated threshold (e.g., 80%→60%) and updates the auto-start threshold based on the updated threshold.

[0060] At box 606, method 600 includes enabling the electrical outlet 160 and / or the DC outlet 130 using the controller 450. The controller 450 controls the power converter 420 and / or the discharge control switch to enable the outlets 130, 160. The method 600 proceeds from box 606 to box 610. Thus, the method 600 facilitates automatically re-enabling the electrical outlets 130, 160 during simultaneous charging and discharging of the power source 180. The auto-start function allows the AC output power to be automatically re-enabled regardless of whether the power supply 100 is turned on or off. For example, when the SOC of the power source 180 reaches the auto-start threshold during charging, the outlets 130, 160 can be automatically enabled (when the auto-start function is enabled) even when the power supply 100 is turned off (i.e., the on / off switch 220 is not turned on).

[0061] At block 608, the method 600 includes determining, using the controller 450, whether the on / off switch 220 is on. When the on / off switch 220 is on, the method 600 proceeds to block 606. When the on / off switch 220 is not actuated, the method 600 proceeds to block 612 to stop providing power to the electrical outlets 130, 160. In some examples, actuation of the on / off switch 220 may provide an interrupt signal to the controller 450. The controller 450 enables the outlets 130, 160 (even when the SOC is below the auto-start threshold) in response to receiving the interrupt signal.

[0062] At block 610, the method 600 includes determining, using the controller 450, whether the power source 180 is discharged below a low battery threshold. The controller 450 may determine whether the power source 180 is discharged below the low battery threshold using the voltage of the power source 180 or the state of charge of the power source 180. For example, the controller 450 compares the voltage of the power source 180 with the low battery voltage threshold to determine whether the power source 180 is discharged below the low battery threshold (e.g., fully discharged). The controller 450 may additionally or alternatively determine the state of charge to determine whether the power source 180 is discharged below the low battery threshold (e.g., fully discharged). In some examples, the low battery threshold is user selectable via user input on the user interface panel 150 and / or via user input on an external device. When the SOC is above the low battery threshold, the method 600 continues to enable the electrical outlets 130, 160 (at block 606) and monitor the discharge state of the power source (at block 610) (e.g., after a time interval such as one second, one tenth of a second, etc.). On the other hand, when the power source 180 is discharged below the low battery threshold, the method 600 proceeds to block 612. Figure 6 It can be clearly seen that the auto-start threshold is greater than the low battery threshold.

[0063] At box 612, the method 600 includes disabling the electrical outlet 160 and / or the DC outlet 130 using the controller 450. The controller 450 controls the power converter 420 and / or the discharge control switch to disable the outlets 130, 160. The method 600 proceeds from box 612 to box 604 to repeat. When the auto-start function is disabled, the controller 450 does not automatically enable the electrical outlet 130, 160 even when the SOC of the power source 180 is above the auto-start threshold. Instead, the controller 450 keeps the electrical outlet 130, 160 disabled when the SOC meets the auto-start threshold, and enables and disables the electrical outlet 130, 160 based on the position of the on / off switch 220 and / or the AC output button 230.

[0064] Method 600 may be repeated until, for example, a command to disable the auto-start function is received (not shown). In some instances, controller 450 may automatically disable the auto-start function in response to determining that portable power supply 100 is no longer plugged into a power source (e.g., in response to determining that jack 140 is no longer connected to a power source). In some instances, controller 450 may prevent power from being provided to electrical outlets 130, 160 in response to on / off switch 220 and / or AC output button 230 being switched to the “off” position, regardless of which block in method 600 is currently being executed by controller 450. In other words, a user input disabling power output from electrical outlets 130, 160 may generate an interrupt in method 600 that stops method 600 until portable power supply 100 receives a different user input (e.g., on / off switch 220 and / or AC output button 230 being switched to the “on” position, enabling the auto-start function via user input, etc.).

[0065] In the above description, specific embodiments have been described. However, various modifications and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as set forth in the appended claims. Therefore, the description and the accompanying drawings should be viewed in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

[0066] Furthermore, in this document, relational terms such as “comprises,” “comprising,” “has,” “having,” “includes,” “including,” “contains,” “containing,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises, has, contains, or includes a list of elements includes not only those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitations, an element preceded by “comprises,” “comprising,” “has,” “includes,” or “containing” does not preclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises, has, contains, or includes the element.

[0067] The terms "a" and "an" are defined as one or more, unless expressly stated otherwise herein. The terms "substantially," "essentially," "approximately," "about," or any other version thereof, are defined as approximating what one of ordinary skill in the art understands, and in one non-limiting embodiment, the terms are defined to be within 10%, in another embodiment within 5%, in another embodiment within 1%, and in another embodiment within 0.5%. As used herein, the term "coupled" is defined to be connected, but not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. A device or structure that is "configured" in a certain manner is configured in at least that manner, but may also be configured in ways not listed.

[0068] Thus, the embodiments described herein provide, among other things, a portable power supply that provides an auto-start function for frictionless power supply operation. Various features and advantages are set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A portable power supply, comprising: power supply; a socket electrically coupled to the power source and configured to be connected to a load; as well as an electronic processor coupled to the power source and the socket, the electronic processor being configured to: Using power provided by an external power source to control charging of the power source, enabling an auto-start function, wherein when the auto-start function is enabled, the electronic processor is configured to: disabling the outlet in response to a state of charge (SOC) of the power source being below a low battery threshold, and automatically re-enabling the receptacle in response to the SOC of the power source increasing above an auto-start threshold during charging, wherein the auto-start threshold is greater than the low battery threshold, and disabling the auto-start function, wherein when the auto-start function is disabled, the electronic processor is configured to: The outlet is disabled in response to the SOC of the power source falling below a low battery threshold, and the outlet remains disabled in response to the SOC of the power source increasing above the auto-start threshold during charging.

2. The portable power supply of claim 1, further comprising: a user interface communicatively coupled to the electronic processor, The electronic processor is further configured to control the user interface to provide an indication that the auto-start function of the portable power supply is enabled in response to the auto-start function being enabled and while the auto-start function remains enabled.

3. The portable power supply according to claim 2, wherein: The electronic processor is further configured to: receiving an update threshold via user input received from the user interface, and The automatic start threshold is updated according to the update threshold.

4. The portable power supply according to claim 2, wherein: The electronic processor is further configured to: receiving commands via user input received from the user interface, and Based on the command, it is controlled whether the automatic start function is enabled or disabled.

5. The portable power supply of claim 1, further comprising: wireless communication equipment, wherein the electronic processor is communicatively coupled to the wireless communication device and is further configured to: receiving an update threshold from an external device via the wireless communication device, and The automatic start threshold is updated according to the update threshold.

6. The portable power supply of claim 1, further comprising: wireless communication equipment, wherein the electronic processor is communicatively coupled to the wireless communication device and is further configured to: receiving a command from an external device via the wireless communication device, and Enabling or disabling an automatic start function of the portable power supply is controlled based on the command.

7. A portable power supply comprising: power supply; a socket electrically coupled to the power source and configured to be connected to a load; as well as an electronic processor coupled to the power source and the socket, the electronic processor being configured to: The outlet is automatically enabled in response to a state of charge (SOC) of the power source satisfying an auto-enable threshold.

8. The portable power supply of claim 7, further comprising: a user interface communicatively coupled to the electronic processor, Wherein, the electronic processor is further configured to: In response to the auto-start function being enabled and while the auto-start function remains enabled, controlling the user interface to provide an indication that the auto-start function of the portable power supply is enabled, wherein the electronic processor is configured to automatically enable the socket in response to the SOC of the power supply satisfying the auto-start threshold when the auto-start function is enabled.

9. The portable power supply of claim 8, wherein: The electronic processor is further configured to: receiving an update threshold via user input received from the user interface, and The automatic start threshold is updated according to the update threshold.

10. The portable power supply of claim 8, wherein: The electronic processor is further configured to: receiving commands via user input received from the user interface, and Based on the command, it is controlled whether the automatic start function is enabled or disabled.

11. The portable power supply of claim 7, further comprising: a housing configured to house the power supply and the electronic processor, wherein the socket is located on the housing; and a jack disposed on the housing and electrically connected to the power source; wherein an external power source is connected to the socket via a power cord; and Wherein, the jack is configured to facilitate charging of the power supply.

12. The portable power supply of claim 7, further comprising: wireless communication equipment, wherein the electronic processor is communicatively coupled to the wireless communication device and is further configured to: receiving an update threshold from an external device via the wireless communication device, and The automatic start threshold is updated according to the update threshold.

13. The portable power supply of claim 7, further comprising: wireless communication equipment, wherein the electronic processor is communicatively coupled to the wireless communication device and is further configured to: receiving a command from an external device via the wireless communication device, and Enabling or disabling an auto-start function of the portable power supply is controlled based on the command, wherein the electronic processor is configured to automatically enable the socket in response to the SOC of the power source satisfying the auto-start threshold when the auto-start function is enabled.

14. The portable power supply of claim 7, wherein: The outlet is configured to provide alternating current (AC) to the load.

15. The portable power supply of claim 7, wherein: The power source includes a plurality of battery cells.

16. The portable power supply of claim 7, wherein: The electronic processor is configured to determine the SOC of the power source while the power source is charging.

17. The portable power supply of claim 7, wherein: The electronic processor is configured to enable an auto-start function, wherein when the auto-start function is enabled, the electronic processor is configured to: disabling the outlet in response to the SOC of the power source being below a low battery threshold; and The receptacle is automatically re-enabled in response to the SOC of the power source increasing above the auto-start threshold during charging, wherein the auto-start threshold is greater than the low battery threshold.

18. The portable power supply of claim 17, wherein: The electronic processor is configured to disable the auto-start function, wherein when the auto-start function is disabled, the electronic processor is configured to: disabling the outlet in response to the SOC of the power source being below a low battery threshold; and The outlet remains disabled in response to the SOC of the power source increasing above the auto-start threshold during charging.

19. A method of controlling a portable power supply, the method comprising: electrically connecting a power source of the portable power supply to an external power source; charging the power source using power provided by the external power source; as well as In response to a state of charge (SOC) of the power source satisfying an auto-enable threshold, automatically enabling, with an electronic processor of the portable power supply, an outlet of the portable power supply, wherein the outlet is electrically coupled to the power source and configured to connect to a load.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising: enabling, with the electronic processor, an auto-start function utilizing the auto-start threshold, wherein when the auto-start function is enabled, the method comprises: disabling the receptacle with the electronic processor in response to a state of charge (SOC) of the power source being below a low battery threshold, and automatically re-enabling the receptacle with the electronic processor in response to the SOC of the power source increasing above an auto-start threshold during charging, wherein the auto-start threshold is greater than the low battery threshold; and disabling the auto-start function with the electronic processor, wherein when the auto-start function is disabled, the method comprises: disabling the receptacle with the electronic processor in response to the SOC of the power source being below a low battery threshold, and The receptacle is maintained disabled with the electronic processor in response to the SOC of the power source increasing above the auto-start threshold during charging.

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