Modular accessory panel with integrated connectivity and power

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a modular accessory panel with integrated connectivity and power. An apparatus includes at least one base plate selectively attachable to a support surface. Each bottom plate comprises a plurality of mounting holes, and the plurality of mounting holes can be configured to receive mounting feet from one or more accessories; a plurality of bus bars; and at least one power interface aperture. Each backplane further includes a plurality of contact openings open to the exterior surface, wherein each contact opening exposes an electrical contact surface of one of the plurality of bus bars.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to a modular baseplate configuration powered by a main power supply to power accessories attached to the baseplate, and more specifically to a modular baseplate configuration that: can receive smaller accessories via exposed electrical contact surfaces; can use an external power source to power the baseplate when the main power supply is unavailable; and / or can transmit baseplate / accessory information to a remote device. Background Technology

[0002] Vehicles transport various types of goods, including attachments such as boxes, containers, and tools. The size / shape of attachments can vary, and they may require power. Supporting surfaces in the vehicle's cargo area or other types of work areas can be configured to securely support the attachments. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a device comprising: at least one base plate selectively attachable to a support surface, wherein each base plate has an outer surface and includes: a plurality of mounting holes configurable to receive mounting feet from one or more accessories; a plurality of busbars; at least one power interface hole; and a plurality of contact openings opening toward the outer surface, wherein each contact opening exposes an electrical contact surface of one of the plurality of busbars.

[0004] In another non-limiting embodiment of any device, the plurality of busbars includes a plurality of positive busbars and a plurality of negative busbars, and the plurality of contact openings are arranged in pairs such that in each pair: one contact opening exposes the electrical contact surface of a positive busbar, and one contact opening exposes the electrical contact surface of a negative busbar.

[0005] In another non-limiting embodiment of any device, the plurality of pairs includes at least a first pair of positioned contact openings and a second pair of contact openings, and the device includes at least one accessory having a plurality of electrical contacts that can be selectively connected to one of the first pair of contact openings and the second pair of contact openings.

[0006] In another, non-limiting embodiment of any device, the plurality of positive busbars and the plurality of negative busbars are arranged in a grid pattern, wherein each positive busbar overlaps with at least one negative busbar in a non-contact relationship at the intersection.

[0007] In another, non-limiting embodiment of any device, the plurality of electrical contacts are arranged in multiple pairs such that each pair of electrical contacts can selectively connect to a selected pair of any of the multiple pairs of contact openings.

[0008] In another non-limiting embodiment of any device, the at least one accessory can be mounted on the at least one base plate in one of a variety of different mounting configurations, and wherein the plurality of pairs of electrical contacts includes at least a first pair of electrical contacts and a second pair of electrical contacts, and wherein in each mounting configuration, one of the first pair of electrical contacts and the second pair of electrical contacts is in a electrically connected position with one of the first pair of contact openings or the second pair of contact openings, and the other of the first pair of electrical contacts and the second pair of electrical contacts is in a non-electrically connected position.

[0009] In another, non-limiting embodiment of any device, the support surface is associated with at least one of the vehicle and the work area removed from the vehicle.

[0010] In another, non-limiting embodiment of any device, a power connection interface is associated with the at least one base plate, wherein the power connection interface provides power from a main power source to the at least one base plate via the plurality of busbars.

[0011] In another, non-limiting embodiment of any device, at least one external power source can be connected to the at least one base plate to supply power to the plurality of busbars when the main power source is unavailable.

[0012] In another non-limiting embodiment of any device, the at least one external power source includes at least one of the following: a portable battery with an inductive charger associated with the at least one power interface port; or a portable battery mated to the at least one base plate via the plurality of contact openings.

[0013] In another, non-limiting embodiment of any device, a communication device is associated with the at least one base plate, wherein the communication device transmits information from one or more accessories connected to the at least one base plate to a remote device.

[0014] In another non-limiting embodiment of any device, the communication device is at least partially embedded within the at least one base plate and includes a communication protocol, which includes one or more of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, and NFC.

[0015] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to a method of attaching at least one accessory to a device as claimed in claim 1, and the method further includes selectively connecting electrical contacts on the at least one accessory to contact openings from the plurality of contact openings.

[0016] In some respects, the technology described herein relates to a method for powering a device as claimed in claim 8, and the method further includes: connecting at least one external power source to the at least one base plate to supply power to the plurality of busbars when the main power source is unavailable.

[0017] In another non-limiting embodiment of any device, the at least one external power source includes a portable battery with an inductive charger; and the method includes: associating a transmitter of the portable battery with the inductive charger to a receiver associated with the at least one base plate at the at least one power interface port; and / or the at least one external power source includes a portable battery, and the method includes: docking the portable battery to the at least one base plate via the plurality of contact openings.

[0018] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a method of communicating with a device as claimed in claim 1, and the method further includes: associating a communication device with the at least one base plate; transmitting information from one or more accessories connected to the at least one base plate to the communication device; and transmitting information related to the at least one base plate and / or associated accessories to a remote device.

[0019] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a device comprising: at least one base plate selectively attachable to a support surface, wherein each base plate has an outer surface and includes: a plurality of mounting holes configurable to receive mounting feet from one or more accessories; a plurality of busbars; and at least one power interface hole; a power connection interface associated with the at least one base plate, wherein the power connection interface supplies power from a main power source to the at least one base plate via the plurality of busbars; and at least one external power source connectable to the at least one base plate to supply power to the plurality of busbars when the main power source is unavailable.

[0020] In another non-limiting embodiment of any device, the at least one external power source includes at least one of the following: a portable battery having an inductive charger associated with the at least one power interface port; a portable battery mounted on the at least one base plate, wherein the at least one base plate includes a plurality of contact openings open to the external surface, wherein each contact opening exposes an electrical contact surface of one of the plurality of busbars, and the portable battery is mated to the at least one base plate via the plurality of contact openings.

[0021] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a device comprising: at least one base plate selectively attachable to a support surface, wherein each base plate has an outer surface and includes: a plurality of mounting holes configurable to receive mounting feet from one or more accessories; a plurality of busbars; and at least one power interface hole; a power connection interface associated with the at least one base plate, wherein the power connection interface supplies power from a main power source to the at least one base plate via the plurality of busbars; and a communication device associated with the at least one base plate, wherein the communication device transmits information from one or more accessories connected to the at least one base plate to a remote device.

[0022] In another non-limiting embodiment of any device, the apparatus includes: at least one external power source connectable to the at least one base plate to supply power to the plurality of busbars when the main power source is unavailable; and / or at least one accessory having a plurality of electrical contacts, wherein the at least one base plate includes a plurality of contact openings open to the external surface, wherein each contact opening exposes an electrical contact surface of one of the plurality of busbars, and wherein the plurality of electrical contacts are selectively connectable to the plurality of contact openings.

[0023] Embodiments, examples, and alternatives, including any of their various aspects or respective individual features, may be adopted independently or in any combination of the foregoing paragraphs, claims, or the following description and drawings. Features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless such features are incompatible. Attached Figure Description

[0024] According to the specific embodiments, various features and advantages of the disclosed examples will become apparent to those skilled in the art. The accompanying drawings of the specific embodiments can be briefly described as follows:

[0025] Figure 1A A perspective view of a vehicle according to an exemplary aspect of this disclosure is illustrated, the vehicle having a cargo area equipped with a floor for securing attachments.

[0026] Figure 1B Similar to Figure 1A However, it shows different types of vehicles.

[0027] Figure 2 This is a diagram of an accessory that can be installed on the base plate.

[0028] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the modular base plate installed on the wall studs.

[0029] Figure 4 yes Figure 3Front view of the modular base plate.

[0030] Figure 5 This is a front view of a modular plate structure consisting of multiple base plates powered by a power source.

[0031] Figure 6 This is a front view of a plate structure with multiple exposed electrical contact surfaces.

[0032] Figure 7 It comes from Figure 6 A schematic cross-sectional view of a pair of arranged electrical contact surfaces of the joining attachments of a plate structure.

[0033] Figure 8 It is a front view of a plate structure with an external power supply arranged in a reverse-feed configuration.

[0034] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a plate structure with integrated connectivity. Detailed Implementation

[0035] This disclosure provides a modular floorplate mounting structure having multiple mounting holes to which various types of accessory structures can be selectively secured via attachment interfaces. The attachment interfaces include mounting feet or clamps that insert into the mounting holes. The floorplate can be mounted to a floor structure or wall structure in various configurations within or outside a vehicle. The modular floorplate can be connected to a main power supply to supply power to accessories mounted to the floorplate. This disclosure provides a configuration that can receive smaller accessories via exposed electrical contact surfaces; can use an external power source to power the floorplate when the main power supply is unavailable; and / or can transmit floorplate / accessory information to a remote device.

[0036] Figure 1A and Figure 1B A vehicle 10 is shown including a cargo area 12 behind a passenger compartment (not shown). A tailgate 14 is movable between an open position and a closed position to close one end of the cargo area 12. The cargo area 12 is also defined by side walls 16 and a floor 18 supporting one or more floor plates 20. In this example, the floor plates 20 can slide out of the cargo area 12 on rails or a track system 22 such that the floor plates 20 can be removed from the cargo area 12 when the tailgate 14 is in the open position.

[0037] In this example, vehicle 10 is a pickup truck. However, in another example, vehicle 10 could be another type of vehicle, such as a car, van, SUV, etc. Figure 1B An example of a vehicle 10 including a van is shown, which incorporates one or more floor panels 20 to an upright wall 24.

[0038] In one example, vehicle 10 includes an electrified powertrain capable of applying torque from a motor M (e.g., an electric motor) to drive at least one set of wheels W. Vehicle 10 may include a traction battery pack B that powers the motor M and (possibly) other electrical loads of vehicle 10. Example vehicle 10 may be an electrified vehicle, and specifically, a battery electric vehicle (BEV). In another example, vehicle 10 may be another type of electrified vehicle, such as a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) or a conventional vehicle.

[0039] The base plate 20 is configured to provide an accessory attachment system, wherein various types of accessories 26 with mounting feet / mounting clamps 28 can be selectively attached to and removed from the base plate 20. For example, such as Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, the base plate 20 has a plurality of mounting holes 30 configured to receive mounting feet / mounting clamps 28 for attaching the accessory 26. In one example, the base plate 20 also includes locking holes 32 to lock the accessory 26 to the base plate 20 as needed, and includes a power interface hole 34 to provide power to the accessory 26 as needed.

[0040] like Figure 2 As shown, Example Attachment 26 includes one or more mounting feet or mounting plates 28. Attachment 26 engages the base plate 20 by inserting each mounting plate 28 into a single mounting hole 30 to provide a mechanical connection interface. The mounting holes 30 are spaced upward from the floor 18 or sidewalls 16, 24 by an opening gap, allowing easy insertion of the mounting plates 28 into the base plate 20.

[0041] As discussed above, the base plate 20 includes a plurality of holes. In one example, the plurality of holes are divided into subgroups 36, each subgroup including at least one type of different holes 30, 32, 34. In one example, the power interface hole 34 and the locking hole 32 of the base plate 20 are spaced apart from and separated from each other and from the mounting hole 30. In one example, the holes 30, 32, 34 may have different shapes and / or sizes from each other. The subgroups 36 of holes 30, 32, 34 are provided at multiple locations on the base plate 20 and are formed on the base plate 20 in a desired pattern to allow the accessory 26 to be mounted at various different locations as needed. In one example, the mounting hole 30 is formed with a rhomboid shape and is larger than the power interface hole 34 and the locking hole 32.

[0042] In one example, subgroup 36 includes mounting holes 30 formed in a four-corner pattern, with a central power hole 34 located between the four corners, and locking holes 32 located between adjacent mounting holes 30. This pattern provides easy and quick connection / disconnection.

[0043] In one example, accessory 26 includes at least one lock 38 separate from the mounting feet / mounting clamp 28. Thus, various accessories 26 can be secured to the vehicle 10 by engaging one or more of the mounting holes 30 in the base plate 20 via the mounting clamp 28 and then actuating the lock 38 into one of the locking holes 32. Accessory 26 may include, for example, a lockable storage compartment for holding clothing, tools, a refrigerator, etc. Accessory 26 may also be a lidded lockable container including a compartment for storing power tools or other items requiring data or electrical connection via a power interface hole 34. In this configuration, accessory 26 includes a power interface 40 that interacts with the power interface hole 34, such as... Figure 2 As illustrated schematically. For example, this would allow the device within Annex 26 to be powered from a vehicle power supply (such as battery pack B, 12V vehicle power, or other power source) via various connections / sockets. Examples of such a power interface connection between the annex and the base plate can be found in both Application Nos. 17 / 716053 and 17 / 716048, filed April 8, 2022, and which have been assigned to the assignee of this application, and which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0044] As discussed above, the base plate 20 with holes 30, 32, and 34 can be mounted to walls 16, 24, or floor 18 in the cargo area 12 in a first base support application. The base plate 20 also has a base plate mounting configuration, i.e., a second base support application, which can be mounted to wall 44 in a fixed, non-vehicle application (e.g., a utility trailer, garage, or factory) away from the vehicle. Figure 3 The attachment is used to allow it to move back and forth between vehicle 10 and the permanent work area.

[0045] In one example, the base plate is made of a material comprising a composite plastic material that is strong enough to withstand heavy loads but also slightly flexible to resist cracking upon a drop or breakage when the attachment fasteners are tightened. Examples of composite plastic materials include, for example, fiber-reinforced composites, carbon fiber composites, glass fiber composites, etc.

[0046] exist Figures 3 to 4One example shown illustrates a modular base plate 42 that can be directly mounted to wall studs 46, for example. In one example, each modular base plate 42 is designed to be a 16-inch wide W by a 24-inch high H (16” x 24”) plate, capable of being mounted on 16-inch (16”) and 24-inch (24”) studs at the spacing typically used in construction. In this example, each modular base plate 42 includes diamond-shaped mounting holes 30, locking holes 32, and power interface holes 34 spaced 8” apart; however, other spacing configurations may also be used. The plurality of holes are composed of subgroups 36, each subgroup including a predetermined pattern comprising at least one mounting hole 30, at least one locking hole 32, and at least one power interface hole 34, and wherein the predetermined pattern is also present for both the first and second base support applications. This allows attachment 26 to be selectively detached from one type of base plate 20 or 42 and selectively attached to another type of base plate 20 or 42.

[0047] In one example, for each subgroup 36, at least one mounting hole 30 includes multiple mounting holes 30, at least one locking hole 32 includes multiple locking holes 32, and at least one power interface hole 34 includes a single power interface hole 34. This type of configuration allows the accessory 26 to be easily mounted on the board in multiple different orientations and rotational positions. In one example, each subgroup 36 includes four mounting holes 30, four locking holes 32, and a single power interface hole 34.

[0048] Figure 4 An example is shown in which each modular base plate 42 has an outer peripheral edge 48 comprising a plurality of mounting features 50, wherein a first mounting feature 50 on the modular base plate 42 overlaps with a second mounting feature 50 from an adjacent modular base plate 42 to secure the two modular base plates 42 together at an attachment interface. An example of such an attachment interface between adjacent base plates can be found in application number 18 / 676737, filed May 29, 2024, which has been assigned to the assignee of this application, and which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0049] Figure 5An example of a power supply baseplate configuration is shown. In one example, multiple modular baseplates 100 may be selectively attached to a support surface, such as, for example, wall studs 46, in a variety of different arrangements. Each modular baseplate 100 includes multiple mounting holes 30 configurable to receive mounting feet / clamps 28 from one or more attachments 26, multiple busbars 102, and at least one power interface hole 34. The modular baseplate 100 may also include one or more locking holes 32. In one example, a power connection interface 104 is associated with one of the modular baseplates 100, wherein the power connection interface 104 provides power from a power source 106 to all modular baseplates 100 in each baseplate arrangement.

[0050] In one example, the plurality of busbars 102 include a plurality of positive busbars 102a and a plurality of negative busbars 102b. In one example, the positive busbars 102a and negative busbars 102b each extend from one edge of each modular baseplate 100 to an opposite edge of each modular baseplate 100. Each modular baseplate 100 extends longitudinally from a first edge 108 to a second edge 110, and each modular baseplate 100 extends laterally from a third edge 112 to a fourth edge 114. Some of the positive busbars 102a and negative busbars 102b extend longitudinally from the first edge 108 to the second edge 110, and some of the positive busbars 102a and negative busbars 102b extend laterally from the third edge 112 to the fourth edge 114. In this example, the busbar arrangement includes a grid pattern in which the positive busbars 102a and negative busbars 102b overlap at a plurality of intersections 116. The positive busbar 102a and the negative busbar 102b cannot make contact with each other at the intersection 116, so there is no possibility of a short circuit.

[0051] In this implementation, busbars 102a and 102b are at least partially embedded in the body of the base plate 100 itself. As discussed above, the base plate 100 is made of, for example, a composite plastic material. In one example, busbars 102a and 102b are overmolded within the composite plastic material to form the base plate 100. Any type of molding process can be used, such as insert molding, two-shot molding, etc. Optionally, busbars 102a and 102b may be adhered to the rear surface of the base plate 100.

[0052] In one implementation, power supply 106 includes a main power supply for base plate 100. An example of such a modular base plate configuration can be found in application number 18 / 677064, filed May 29, 2024, which has been assigned to the assignee of this application, and which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0053] This disclosure provides a base plate 200 ( Figure 6In this configuration, the base plate can continue to be powered when the main power supply 106 is turned off, allowing the accessories to remain powered. This is useful in situations where the main power supply 106 is inactive, disconnected from the base plate 100, or experiencing a power outage. In an implementation of this configuration, the base plate 200 includes a plurality of contact openings 202 exposed on the outward-facing surface 204 of the base plate 200 to provide pathways to the electrical contact surfaces of the busbars 102a, 102b.

[0054] Figure 7 A cross-section of the molded plastic body 206 of the base plate 200 is shown, in which busbars 102a, 102b are exposed on the outward-facing surface 204. As discussed above, the positive busbar 102a and the negative busbar 102b cannot contact each other at the intersection 116. In this example, the positive busbar 102a and the negative busbar 102b are offset from each other in at least one direction at each intersection 116. The offset may be in one direction or multiple directions. Figure 7 An example is shown in which the positive busbar 102a and the negative busbar 102b are at least partially offset from each other in the height direction H, wherein the contact opening 202 for the negative busbar 102b is deeper (e.g., has a greater height) than the contact opening 202 for the positive busbar 102a. Thus, each bar of different polarities is at a different height and is insulated from each other by material from the molded plastic body 206.

[0055] In some implementations, smaller accessories that do not occupy the location of the power interface hole 34 on the base plate will not be able to receive power from the board. These accessories may or may not include mounting feet for insertion into the mounting holes 30. Contact openings 202 exposed on the outward-facing surface 204 of the base plate 200 provide a power path for such smaller accessories 26 to the busbars 102a, 102b. Such accessories may include, for example, cameras, telephones, smart devices, battery chargers, etc. Embedded electrical contacts in the base plate facilitate powering these smaller accessories without wired connections to the accessories and allow data transfer between the connected device and the board. Additionally, smaller accessories may contact the contacts to receive power, rather than extending into the inductive charger area, which increases the required package space.

[0056] In one example, the contact opening 202 is located in a strategic area that allows attachment 26 to contact at least one set of electrical contact surfaces (e.g., contact with a positive busbar 102a and a negative busbar 102b) for power transmission, regardless of the orientation of attachment 26. In other words, attachment 26 can be attached to the base plate 200 in any number of mounting orientations. Figure 6An example is shown in which the accessory 26 is installed in a first position 210, a second position 212 rotated 90 degrees relative to the first position 210, a third position 214 rotated 90 degrees relative to the second position 212, and a fourth position 216 rotated 90 degrees relative to the third position 214.

[0057] In this implementation, to provide this flexible mounting configuration, each mounting hole 30 includes at least four contact openings 202. In one example, the four contact openings 202 include a first pair 202a located at a corner position of the mounting hole 30 and a second pair 202b located at a opposite corner position of the mounting hole 30. Each pair 202a, 202b must have a pathway to an electrical contact surface of a positive busbar 102a and a negative busbar 102b.

[0058] In this implementation, Annex 26 includes an electrical contact 220 associated with the contact opening 202. Figure 7 In this implementation, each attachment 26 includes at least four electrical contacts 220. In one example, the four electrical contacts 220 include a first pair 220a located at a corner position of the attachment and a second pair 220b located at an adjacent corner position of the attachment 26 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 6 (Configuration 216 in the configuration). Each pair 220a, 220b must have a path to a positive busbar 102a contact surface and a negative busbar 102b contact surface.

[0059] In this implementation, the electrical contact 220 may include a spring pin 222, such as... Figure 7 As shown. A spring pin is a type of spring-loaded electrical contact mechanism used to establish a temporary electrical connection. In one implementation, the spring pin may include a plunger, typically made of, for example, brass or steel, housed within a cylindrical body. The plunger is spring-loaded, allowing it to retract and extend when pressure is applied or released. Other types of spring-loaded or flexible electrical contacts may also be used.

[0060] like Figure 6 As shown, when accessory 26 is installed on base plate 200, only one pair of the plurality of contacts 220a, 220b is correctly positioned to electrically connect to one pair of the plurality of contacts 202a, 202b at the contact opening. In other words, only one pair of the plurality of contacts 220a, 220b can be aligned to contact a positive bus 102a and a negative bus 102b; the other pair of contacts 220a, 220b is not aligned with the contact opening because they are overlapping intersections of two positive buses 102a or two negative buses 102b, and there are no contact openings at these types of intersections. Figure 6The area indicated at point 224 correctly identifies the electrical connection, such as a power supply connection, where there is spring pin contact with a positive busbar 102a and a negative busbar 102b. Figure 6 The area indicated at point 226 is a spring pin in a non-powered connection, wherein the pin is located at the intersection of two positive busbars 102a or two negative busbars 102b, where there is no contact opening 202.

[0061] In some implementations, the baseplate may lose power if the main power supply 106 from the vehicle battery or wall socket is interrupted. This disclosure also provides a reverse power feed-back option, wherein an external power source can be used to power the baseplate. This provides the ability to feed power back from, for example, a portable battery to the baseplate system as a backup power source when the main power supply is unavailable.

[0062] In this implementation, when the main power supply 106 is unavailable, one or more external power supplies 230 can be used. Figure 8 An external power source 230 (such as a portable battery 232 with an inductive charger) can conversely supply power to the base plate 200, for example, by sending power from the battery 232 to the plate 200. In this example, the battery 232 has a transmitter 234 and the plate 200 includes a receiver 236 to supply power to the busbar 102.

[0063] Therefore, when power is unavailable from the main power source 106, the board system can draw power from a portable battery 232 docked to the floor. For example, in the case where the floor on the trailer loses power when the vehicle loses power, the floor can transfer this power to the portable battery 232, and the battery 232 can then feed power to the board system and other connected accessories. When the main power source 106 becomes available, this power is transferred to the portable battery 232 and reverse feeding can be terminated.

[0064] In other implementations, the external power supply 230 may include a spring pin 220 (such as...) Figure 6 The spring pin shown docks with the smaller portable battery 238 on the bottom plate.

[0065] Additionally, multiple portable batteries 232 and / or 238 can be docked onto the board to increase the total available power output and capacity. Thus, power can be inductively delivered to the base plate 200 via electrical contacts from the docked batteries or via an existing inductive charger on the base plate.

[0066] This disclosure also provides integrated connectivity options that enable the baseboard, accessories, and remote devices to communicate with each other and with the user. The baseboards can communicate with each other to determine which docked accessories should be offloaded when using limited backup power. The baseboards can also communicate with other connected devices to broadcast status or messages.

[0067] Figure 9 An example implementation of integrated connectivity is shown, wherein device 240 is at least partially embedded in a mechanism that provides integrated connectivity and communication protocols (e.g., Wi-Fi, etc.). The baseboard 242 is embedded in a Universal Serial Bus (USB) or Near Field Communication (NFC) board, via a physical or wireless connection interface to the connected accessory 26. As long as the device 240 receives power from the main power supply 106 or via an external power supply 230, the baseboard can communicate with the accessory 26 and / or the external / remote device 244.

[0068] In this implementation, Annex 26 transmits information / data to the base plate 242, which then transmits it to the external device 244.

[0069] In this implementation, the external device may include a smart device 246 (e.g., a telephone, tablet, etc.), a remote server or home hub 248, or any other similar remote device.

[0070] In one example, the information transmitted to remote device 244 may include one or more of the following: current power usage for each accessory attached to the unit, current power usage for all accessories attached to the unit, number of occupied diamond-shaped power connection interfaces, and number of unoccupied diamond-shaped power connection interfaces (see [reference]). Figure 9 ).

[0071] In one example, the base plate can notify connected remote devices of associated statuses of the plate itself, such as power usage, area occupied by accessories, temperature, weight, etc.

[0072] In the implementation, board 242 may include, for example: Figure 9 The reverse feed configuration shown and / or as shown Figures 6 to 7 The attachment connection interface is shown.

[0073] The foregoing description is exemplary in nature and not restrictive. Variations and modifications made to the disclosed examples will become apparent to those skilled in the art, and such variations and modifications do not necessarily depart from the spirit of this disclosure. Therefore, the scope of protection accorded to this disclosure can only be determined by examining the appended claims.

[0074] According to the present invention, an apparatus is provided having: at least one base plate selectively attachable to a support surface, wherein each base plate has an outer surface and includes: a plurality of mounting holes configured to receive mounting feet from one or more accessories; a plurality of busbars; at least one power interface hole; and a plurality of contact openings opening toward the outer surface, wherein each contact opening exposes an electrical contact surface of one of the plurality of busbars.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the plurality of busbars includes a plurality of positive busbars and a plurality of negative busbars, and wherein the plurality of contact openings are arranged in pairs such that in each pair: one contact opening exposes the electrical contact surface of a positive busbar, and one contact opening exposes the electrical contact surface of a negative busbar.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the plurality of pairs includes at least a first pair of positioned contact openings and a second pair of contact openings, and the device includes at least one accessory having a plurality of electrical contacts that can be selectively connected to one of the first pair of contact openings and the second pair of contact openings.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the plurality of positive busbars and the plurality of negative busbars are arranged in a grid pattern, wherein each positive busbar overlaps with at least one negative busbar in a non-contact relationship at the intersection.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the plurality of electrical contacts are arranged in multiple pairs such that each pair of electrical contacts can selectively connect to a selected pair of any of the multiple pairs of contact openings.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the at least one accessory can be mounted on the at least one base plate in one of a variety of different mounting configurations, and wherein the plurality of pairs of electrical contacts includes at least a first pair of electrical contacts and a second pair of electrical contacts, and wherein in each mounting configuration, one of the first pair of electrical contacts and the second pair of electrical contacts is in a electrically connected position with one of the first pair of contact openings or the second pair of contact openings, and the other of the first pair of electrical contacts and the second pair of electrical contacts is in a non-electrically connected position.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the support surface is associated with at least one of the vehicle and the work area removed from the vehicle.

[0081] According to one embodiment, a further feature of the invention is: a power connection interface associated with the at least one base plate, wherein the power connection interface provides power from a main power source to the at least one base plate via the plurality of busbars.

[0082] According to one embodiment, a further feature of the invention is that: at least one external power source is connected to the at least one base plate to supply power to the plurality of busbars when the main power source is unavailable.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the at least one external power source includes at least one of the following: a portable battery with an inductive charger associated with the at least one power interface port; or a portable battery mated to the at least one base plate via the plurality of contact openings.

[0084] According to one embodiment, a further feature of the invention is: a communication device associated with the at least one base plate, wherein the communication device transmits information from one or more accessories connected to the at least one base plate to a remote device.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the communication device is at least partially embedded in the at least one base plate and includes a communication protocol, which includes one or more of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, and NFC.

[0086] In one aspect of the invention, a method includes selectively connecting an electrical contact on the at least one accessory to a contact opening from the plurality of contact openings.

[0087] In one aspect of the invention, the method includes connecting at least one external power source to the at least one base plate to supply power to the plurality of busbars when the main power source is unavailable.

[0088] In one aspect of the invention, the at least one external power source includes a portable battery with an inductive charger; and the method includes: associating a transmitter of the portable battery with the inductive charger to a receiver associated with the at least one base plate at the at least one power interface port; and / or the at least one external power source includes a portable battery, and the method includes: mating the portable battery to the at least one base plate via the plurality of contact openings.

[0089] In one aspect of the invention, the method includes: associating a communication device with the at least one base plate; transmitting information from one or more accessories connected to the at least one base plate to the communication device; and transmitting information related to the at least one base plate and / or associated accessories to a remote device.

[0090] According to the present invention, an apparatus is provided comprising: at least one base plate selectively attachable to a support surface, wherein each base plate has an outer surface and includes: a plurality of mounting holes configurable to receive mounting feet from one or more accessories; a plurality of busbars; and at least one power interface hole; a power connection interface associated with the at least one base plate, wherein the power connection interface supplies power from a main power source to the at least one base plate via the plurality of busbars; and at least one external power source connectable to the at least one base plate to supply power to the plurality of busbars when the main power source is unavailable.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the at least one external power source includes at least one of the following: a portable battery having an inductive charger associated with the at least one power interface port; a portable battery mounted on the at least one base plate, wherein the at least one base plate includes a plurality of contact openings open to the external surface, wherein each contact opening exposes an electrical contact surface of one of the plurality of busbars, and the portable battery is mated to the at least one base plate via the plurality of contact openings.

[0092] According to the present invention, an apparatus is provided comprising: at least one base plate selectively attachable to a support surface, wherein each base plate has an outer surface and includes: a plurality of mounting holes configurable to receive mounting feet from one or more accessories; a plurality of busbars; and at least one power interface hole; a power connection interface associated with the at least one base plate, wherein the power connection interface supplies power from a main power source to the at least one base plate via the plurality of busbars; and a communication device associated with the at least one base plate, wherein the communication device transmits information from one or more accessories connected to the at least one base plate to a remote device.

[0093] According to one embodiment, a further feature of the invention is: at least one external power source, the at least one external power source being connectable to the at least one base plate to supply power to the plurality of busbars when the main power source is unavailable; and / or at least one accessory having a plurality of electrical contacts, wherein the at least one base plate includes a plurality of contact openings open to the external surface, wherein each contact opening exposes an electrical contact surface of one of the plurality of busbars, and wherein the plurality of electrical contacts are selectively connectable to the plurality of contact openings.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising: At least one base plate that can be selectively attached to a supporting surface, wherein each base plate has an outer surface and includes: Multiple mounting holes, the multiple mounting holes being configurable to receive mounting feet from one or more accessories; Multiple busbars; At least one power interface port; and Multiple contact openings open to the external surface, wherein each contact opening exposes the electrical contact surface of one of the multiple busbars.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the plurality of busbars comprises a plurality of positive busbars and a plurality of negative busbars, and wherein the plurality of contact openings are arranged in pairs such that in each pair: A contact opening exposes the electrical contact surface of a positive busbar, and A contact opening exposes the electrical contact surface of a negative busbar.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the plurality of pairs includes at least a first pair of positioned contact openings and a second pair of contact openings, and the device comprises: At least one accessory having a plurality of electrical contacts, said plurality of electrical contacts being selectively connectable to one of a first pair of contact openings and a second pair of contact openings, and optionally: The plurality of positive busbars and the plurality of negative busbars are arranged in a grid pattern, wherein each positive busbar overlaps with at least one negative busbar in a non-contact relationship at the intersection point; or The plurality of electrical contacts are arranged in multiple pairs such that each pair of electrical contacts can selectively connect to a selected pair of any of the multiple pairs of contact openings.

4. The device of claim 3, wherein the at least one accessory can be mounted on the at least one base plate in one of a plurality of different mounting configurations, and wherein the plurality of pairs of electrical contacts includes at least a first pair of electrical contacts and a second pair of electrical contacts, and wherein in each mounting configuration, one of the first pair of electrical contacts and the second pair of electrical contacts is in a electrically connected position with one of the first pair of contact openings or the second pair of contact openings, and the other of the first pair of electrical contacts and the second pair of electrical contacts is in a non-electrically connected position.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein the support surface is associated with at least one of a vehicle and a work area removed from the vehicle, and the device comprises: A power connection interface associated with the at least one base plate, wherein the power connection interface supplies power from the main power source to the at least one base plate via the plurality of busbars.

6. The device of claim 5, comprising: At least one external power source, the at least one external power source being connectable to the at least one base plate to supply power to the plurality of busbars when the main power source is unavailable, and wherein the at least one external power source includes at least one of the following: A portable battery with an inductive charger associated with the at least one power interface port; A portable battery is connected to at least one base plate via the plurality of contact openings.

7. The device of claim 1, comprising: A communication device associated with the at least one base plate, wherein the communication device transmits information from one or more accessories connected to the at least one base plate to a remote device, and optionally, wherein the communication device is at least partially embedded in the at least one base plate and includes a communication protocol, the communication protocol including one or more of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, and NFC.

8. A method of attaching at least one accessory to the device of claim 1, comprising: Selectively connect the electrical contacts on at least one accessory to contact openings from the plurality of contact openings.

9. A method for supplying power to the device as claimed in claim 5, comprising: At least one external power source is connected to the at least one base plate to supply power to the plurality of busbars when the main power source is unavailable.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein: The at least one external power source includes a portable battery with an inductive charger; The method includes: associating a transmitter of the portable battery having the inductive charger with a receiver associated with the at least one base plate at the at least one power interface port; and / or The at least one external power source includes a portable battery, and the method includes: docking the portable battery to the at least one base plate via the plurality of contact openings.

11. A method of communicating with the device as claimed in claim 1, comprising: Associate the communication device with the at least one base plate; Transmit information from one or more accessories connected to the at least one base plate to the communication device; as well as Information relating to the at least one base plate and / or associated accessories is transmitted to a remote device.

12. An apparatus comprising: At least one base plate that can be selectively attached to a supporting surface, wherein each base plate has an outer surface and includes: Multiple mounting holes, the multiple mounting holes being configurable to receive mounting feet from one or more accessories; Multiple busbars; and At least one power interface hole; A power connection interface associated with the at least one base plate, wherein the power connection interface supplies power from a main power source to the at least one base plate via the plurality of busbars; and At least one external power source is provided, which can be connected to the at least one base plate to supply power to the plurality of busbars when the main power source is unavailable.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein the at least one external power source comprises at least one of the following: A portable battery with an inductive charger associated with the at least one power interface port; A portable battery mounted on the at least one base plate, wherein the at least one base plate includes a plurality of contact openings open to the external surface, wherein each contact opening exposes an electrical contact surface of one of the plurality of busbars, and the portable battery is mated to the at least one base plate via the plurality of contact openings.

14. An apparatus comprising: At least one base plate that can be selectively attached to a supporting surface, wherein each base plate has an outer surface and includes: Multiple mounting holes, the multiple mounting holes being configurable to receive mounting feet from one or more accessories; Multiple busbars; and At least one power interface hole; A power connection interface associated with the at least one base plate, wherein the power connection interface supplies power from a main power source to the at least one base plate via the plurality of busbars; and A communication device associated with the at least one base plate, wherein the communication device transmits information from one or more accessories connected to the at least one base plate to a remote device.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, further comprising: At least one external power source, which can be connected to the at least one base plate to supply power to the plurality of busbars when the main power source is unavailable; And / or At least one accessory having a plurality of electrical contacts, wherein the at least one base plate includes a plurality of contact openings open to the outer surface, wherein each contact opening exposes an electrical contact surface of one of the plurality of busbars, and wherein the plurality of electrical contacts are selectively connectable to the plurality of contact openings.

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