Charging an external battery using an on-board generator

Abstract

Charging an external battery using an onboard generator. An apparatus, method, and non-transitory machine-readable storage medium are proposed for supplying power to external devices using an onboard generator of an integrated system without supplying power to an internal battery. In some embodiments, the integrated system may be a series hybrid vehicle and may be used to supply power to an electric vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to providing power from an onboard generator of an integrated system. Specifically, embodiments of this disclosure relate to using an onboard generator in a series hybrid vehicle to charge an external battery, but not an internal battery. Background Technology

[0002] There is a growing need to deliver charge to power a variety of devices. Obtaining power can be expensive and inefficient if no readily available power source is available. For example, one such device requiring power could be a rechargeable battery. The battery could be part of, for example, an electric vehicle or plug-in hybrid vehicle, which might run out of power in remote areas where available power is scarce. In some embodiments, the device requiring power may be immobile or difficult to transport to an available power source. In such cases, having a mobile power source capable of providing a large amount of power is advantageous. In some embodiments, a portable device (e.g., a series hybrid vehicle) capable of using an onboard generator to directly provide Level 3 fast charging to an electric vehicle may be advantageous.

[0003] Existing solutions may involve loading a gasoline or diesel-powered generator into the vehicle and transporting it to the location where it will provide power; however, these solutions are expensive, inconvenient, and time-consuming, and can only deliver limited electrical power. Furthermore, such solutions provide AC power, enabling Level 1 or Level 2 charging for electric vehicles. Level 3 charging (also known as DC fast charging) delivers DC power instead of AC power and achieves significantly faster charging.

[0004] This disclosure relates to a robust apparatus, system, and method for transmitting large amounts of electricity while avoiding the cost, complexity, weight, shape factors, time, and security issues associated with existing solutions. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This document presents certain apparatuses, systems, and methods for providing power from a portable system to an external device. In some embodiments of this disclosure, an apparatus configured to provide power to an external battery is provided. An apparatus may include a generator, a charging port, and an internal battery. An apparatus may be configured to determine whether the charging port is connected to the external battery, and if so, determine the state of charge of the external battery, match a first voltage generated by the generator to a second voltage of the external battery based on the state of charge of the external battery, and charge the battery via the charging port using the generator.

[0006] In some embodiments of this disclosure, a method for charging an external battery is provided. One method includes connecting an external battery to a charging port associated with an internal battery and a generator. Another method includes using a processor and a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium encoded with processor-executable program code (e.g., software, firmware, a combination thereof), determining a state of charge of the external battery based on the determination that the charging port is connected to the external battery; matching a first voltage generated by the generator to a second voltage of the external battery based on the determined state of charge of the external battery; and charging the external battery using the generator.

[0007] In some embodiments, a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium is encoded with processor-executable program code of the device, the processor-executable program code being configured to determine whether the device's charging port is connected to an external battery, and if connected, to determine the charging state of the external battery; based on the determined charging state of the external battery, to match a first voltage generated by the device's generator with a second voltage of the external battery; and to charge the external battery via the charging port and using the generator.

[0008] At least some of the incidental benefits of the disclosed concepts include novel methods for providing large amounts of power from portable devices. The disclosed embodiments can, for example, enable a series hybrid vehicle to drive to a location where an electric vehicle is stranded and provide a large amount of DC power to the electric vehicle using the onboard generator of the series hybrid vehicle, without charging the internal battery. While existing solutions can achieve Level 1 or Level 2 charging using a separate portable AC generator, some embodiments of the disclosed invention can achieve Level 3 DC fast charging directly from the onboard generator of the series hybrid vehicle using the charging port of the series hybrid vehicle. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1A This is a simplified example schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 1B This is a simplified example schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary method of supplying power from a system’s on-board generator to an external battery or device without charging the on-board battery, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating another exemplary method of supplying power from the system's on-board generator to an external battery or device without charging the internal vehicle battery, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] This disclosure is capable of various modifications and alternatives, and some representative embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the novel aspects of this disclosure are not limited to the specific forms illustrated in the drawings listed above. Rather, this disclosure covers all modifications, equivalents, combinations, substitutions, groupings, and replacements that fall within the scope of this disclosure, for example, as covered by the appended claims. Detailed Implementation

[0014] This disclosure may be embodied in many different forms. Exemplary embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail herein, wherein it is to be understood that these embodiments are provided as examples of the principles disclosed and not as limitations on the broad aspects of this disclosure. In this regard, elements and limitations described, for example, in the abstract, introduction, summary, and detailed description sections but not expressly set forth in the claims should not be incorporated into the claims individually or collectively by implication, inference, or otherwise. Furthermore, the use of terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., in the specification or claims is not intended to establish a sequence or numerical limitation; rather, these names may be used to readily refer to similar features in the specification and drawings and to distinguish between similar elements in the claims. As used herein, the term “battery” may refer to any suitable rechargeable energy storage system unless expressly limited otherwise. Furthermore, the term “generator” may refer to a generator set or generator assembly and may include additional components therein, such as an engine and a generator.

[0015] For the purposes of this detailed description, unless specifically denied: the singular includes the plural, and vice versa; the words “and” and “or” are both conjunctions and disjunctive words; the words “any one” and “all” refer to both “any one and all”; and the words “including,” “containing,” “including,” “having,” etc., each refer to “inclusion without limitation.”

[0016] For reference Figure 1A A schematic diagram of an apparatus 100 according to embodiments of the present disclosure is provided. In some embodiments, the apparatus 100 may be a motor vehicle, such as a series hybrid vehicle. Figure 1A As shown, the device 100 may include a generator 102, an internal battery 106, and a charging port 104.

[0017] In some embodiments, the apparatus 100 includes a main controller 150, which includes a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing processor-executable program code for performing the various steps described in detail below. In some embodiments, the main controller 150 may operate in place of or in conjunction with the generator control module 122, the internal battery control module 120, the charging port control module 105, and the control feedback module 118. In some embodiments, one or more of the generator control module 122, the internal battery control module 120, the charging port control module 105, and the control feedback module 118 may include a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing processor-executable program code for performing one or more of the various steps described below.

[0018] In some embodiments, generator 102 may be configured to output direct current (DC). In various embodiments, generator 102 may be further configured to provide power to internal battery 106 or other high-voltage modules. In some embodiments, generator 102 may include an engine that can operate on fuel, such as, but not limited to, gasoline or diesel. In some embodiments, generator 102 may be configured to generate direct current (DC). Figure 1A As shown, generator 102 may include generator control module 122, which in some embodiments includes a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing program code executable by the processor to perform various steps. In some embodiments, generator control module 122 may be configured to receive control instructions (e.g., from a master controller 150) and / or generate control instructions based on received signals. In some embodiments, generator control module 122 may be configured to execute instructions to start, stop, or adjust generator 102, among other things. In some embodiments, generator control module 122 may include a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing program code executable by the processor for performing various steps, including but not limited to starting the generator, stopping the generator, and / or adjusting the generator's output voltage. In some embodiments, generator 102 may be further configured to output a high voltage, such as a voltage greater than or equal to 60V DC. For example, in some embodiments, generator 102 may be configured to generate 80kW DC. In some embodiments, generator 102 may be configured to generate 160kW DC, 240kW DC, 360kW DC, 480kW DC, 1MW DC, or any suitable generating power. In some embodiments (… Figure 1A (not shown in the image) One or more additional generators configured in device 100 may be present.

[0019] The internal battery 106 can be any suitable energy storage device. For example, in some embodiments, the internal battery 106 can be a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. In some embodiments, the internal battery 106 can be, for example, a solid-state battery or a supercapacitor. In some embodiments, the internal battery 106 can include several smaller batteries coupled together, as known in the art. Figure 1A As shown, in some embodiments, the internal battery 106 is part of the device 100 and can be configured to provide power to various components of the device 100. In some embodiments, the internal battery 106 may also be configured to receive power from the generator 102 or from an external power source 114 via the charging port 104. In some embodiments, the internal battery 106 may be configured to be selectively connected to or disconnected from any or all components of the device 100 using any suitable means (such as, for example, to / from the generator 102 or to / from the charging port 104). For example, in some embodiments, the internal battery 100 may be configured to be selectively electrically connected or electrically disconnected via the internal battery control module 120.

[0020] In some embodiments, the internal battery control module 120 may include a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing processor-executable program code for performing various steps, including but not limited to monitoring the internal battery 106, performing maintenance operations on the internal battery 106 (e.g., regulating the battery temperature), monitoring the battery's health status, monitoring the battery's charging status, and reporting the battery's operational status to other controllers. In some embodiments, the internal battery control module 120 may report the battery's operational status to, for example, a main controller 150 and / or a generator control module 122. In some embodiments, the internal battery control module 120 may be configured to receive, for example, control commands from the main controller 150, the generator control module 122, and / or the charging port 104. In some embodiments, the internal battery control module 120 may be configured to generate control commands and may send them to the main controller 150, the generator control module 122, and / or the charging port 104. In some embodiments, the internal battery control module 120 may be configured to communicate with other systems, such as a charging station 114 or an external battery 116, and may provide information about the internal battery 106, such as charging status or charging limits, and any other functions suitable for performance by the battery control module. In some embodiments, the internal battery control module 120 can connect or disconnect the internal battery 106. Additionally or alternatively, the device 100 may include, for example, contactors that can open or close to control the flow of current through the system at any point in the system (e.g., internal battery contactors 136 and 138), or any other suitable solution may be used to stop the current. Figure 1A (not shown in the image), one or more additional internal batteries (in addition to internal battery 106) may be present in the device.

[0021] like Figure 1AAs illustrated in the embodiments depicted, device 100 may further include a charging port 104. In some embodiments, charging port 104 may be switchable and connected to an internal battery 106 and / or to a generator 102. In some embodiments, charging port 104 is configured to receive charging cable 128 and may be connected to an external battery 116 via charging cable 128. In some embodiments, charging port 104 may be configured to receive charging cable 130 and may be connected to an external power source 114 via charging cable 130. In some embodiments, charging port 104 may include a charging port control module 105, which includes a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing processor-executable program code for performing various steps, including but not limited to determining the internal resistance value of a charging cable (such as charging cable 128 or 130). In some embodiments, device 100 may include a plurality of charging ports, which may include a first charging port configured to receive charge from an external power source and a second charging port configured to provide power to an external battery.

[0022] External battery 116 can be any suitable energy storage device. In some embodiments, external battery 116 can be a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. In some embodiments, external battery 116 can be, for example, a solid-state battery or a supercapacitor. In some embodiments, as known in the art, internal battery 106 may include several smaller batteries coupled together. In some embodiments, external battery 116 may be configured to receive power from device 100 of this embodiment. In some embodiments, external battery 116 may be a component of an electric vehicle, a plug-in hybrid vehicle, or a component for an electric vehicle, a plug-in hybrid vehicle, or a component for any other device requiring power. In some embodiments, external battery 116 may be configured with an external battery control module (…). Figure 1A (not shown in the image), which includes a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing program code executable by the processor.

[0023] In some embodiments, the external battery 116 may be configured to communicate using certain specified protocols, such as the standard power line communication protocol. Using such a communication protocol allows the external battery 116 to communicate with the device 100 to share information, such as the charging state of the external battery 116 or any charging limits associated with the external battery 116. In some embodiments, the external battery control module (in...) Figure 1AThe external battery control module (not shown) can be configured to receive control commands (e.g., from the main controller 150) or generate control commands, and can connect or disconnect the external battery 116. In some embodiments, the external battery control module (not shown) can be configured to communicate with other systems, such as those in device 100, and can provide information about the external battery 116, such as charging status or charging limits, and any other functions that can typically be performed by the battery control module.

[0024] In some embodiments, a device (e.g.) Figure 1B The device 100 can supply power to various devices that require electricity (e.g., Figure 1B The device 142 provides power. In some embodiments, the device 142 may not be configured to store energy. In some embodiments, Figure 1B Equipment 142 may include, for example, tools, appliances, and housing (such as...) Figure 1B (e.g., residential house 144), or any suitable equipment that requires electricity. In some embodiments, an adapter (e.g., Figure 1B The adapter 140 can be configured as part of a device (e.g., device 100) or as a separate component (configured to couple to a charging port 104 using, for example, a charging cable 140). In some embodiments, the adapter (e.g., adapter 140) converts power from DC to AC. In some embodiments, the adapter (e.g., Figure 1B The adapter 140 includes a boost or buck voltage converter.

[0025] Still refer to Figure 1A In some embodiments, device 100 may be connected to external battery 116 using charging cable 128 having a unique internal resistance value. In some embodiments, charging cable 128 is configured with a unique resistance value. In some embodiments, charging port control module 105 determines the resistance value of the charging cable (e.g., charging cable 128 or 130) attached to charging port 104. In some embodiments, the determination of the unique resistance value of charging cable 128 indicates that external battery 116 is coupled to charging port 104. In some embodiments, based on the determination of the unique resistance value, charging port control module 105 may send a signal to main controller 150 and / or any of other control modules in the system (e.g., internal battery control module 120, generator control module 122, etc.) indicating that device 100 is connected to an external battery (e.g., external battery 116) and / or that device 100 is not connected to an external power station (e.g., external power station 114).

[0026] like Figure 1AAs illustrated in the diagram, in some embodiments, the external power source 114 is any suitable device or system configured to provide power to the device 100. In some embodiments, the external power source 114 is, for example, a grid-connected charger.

[0027] In some embodiments, reference Figure 1A The high-voltage distribution module 108 is designed to control the delivery of power to various systems and components of the device 100 (e.g., internal battery 106, generator 102, charging port 104, etc.). In some embodiments, such as Figure 1A As shown, the high-voltage distribution module 108 includes a pre-charge contactor 110 and a main contactor 112. In some embodiments, the pre-charge contactor 110 and the main contactor 112 can be configured to connect the generator 102 to the charging port 104 via a switchable connection. In some embodiments, the pre-charge contactor 110 and the main contactor 112 are configured to operate at high voltage (e.g., a voltage greater than or equal to 60V DC). In some embodiments, the pre-charge contactor 110 and the main contactor 112 are configured to be in an open position, such as... Figure 1A The illustrated embodiments depict no current flowing between generator 102 and charging port 104, or are either in a closed position (not shown) or a combination of open and closed positions (not shown). In some embodiments, high-voltage distribution module 108 includes a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing processor-executable program code for performing various steps, including but not limited to opening and closing pre-charge contactor 110 and / or main contactor 112, thereby generating signals indicating the state of pre-charge contactor 110 and / or main contactor 112, receiving signals from certain controllers / control modules in device 100 (e.g., main controller 150, internal battery control module 120, generator control module 122, and / or charging port module 100), etc. In various embodiments, to prevent damage to the system or its components, pre-charge contactor 110 may close before main contactor 112 closes to allow current to flow in a controlled manner until the voltage of the source voltage and the second voltage are equivalent, at which point main contactor 112 may also close, at which point current can flow freely.

[0028] In some embodiments, the high-voltage distribution module 108 includes a high-voltage bus (e.g., a bus capable of handling voltages greater than or equal to 60VDC). In some embodiments, the high-voltage distribution module 108 may be configured with a control feedback module 118. In some embodiments, the control feedback module 118 includes a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing processor-executable program code for performing various steps, including but not limited to monitoring the current and / or voltage across the main contactor 112 and the pre-charge contactor 110, generating signals indicating the voltage and / or current across the main contactor 112 and the pre-charge contactor 110, to be sent to one or more controllers / control modules of the device 100 (e.g., main controller 150, internal battery control module 120, generator control module 122, charging port module 105, etc.). In some embodiments, the high-voltage distribution module 108 may receive signals from one or more other controllers / control modules of the device 100 (e.g., main controller 150, internal battery control module 120, generator control module 122, control feedback module 118, charging port module 105, etc.) to indicate when to open or close the pre-charge contactor 110 and / or the main contactor 112.

[0029] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1A As shown, device 100 may include isolator module 132 and ground 134.

[0030] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1A As shown, device 100 may include one or more high-voltage modules 124. High-voltage modules 124 may include various components configured to operate using high voltage, including but not limited to electric motors.

[0031] Although not in Figure 1A As shown herein, various embodiments may include additional features within device 100, such as a second generator, a second internal battery, a second charging port, and / or additional modules that may require power, such as an electric motor, instrument, computer, etc., and corresponding control modules and software, if necessary, to operate as described herein.

[0032] In some embodiments, the main controller 150 includes a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing processor-executable program code for performing various steps, including but not limited to one or more steps described in some embodiments as being performed by the generator control module 122, the internal battery control module 120, the charging port control module 105, and / or the control feedback module 118.

[0033] Now for reference Figure 2 The flowchart provides, according to some embodiments, the execution for providing power from an onboard generator (e.g., Figure 1AAn exemplary flowchart of a method for charging an external battery (e.g., an external battery 116) using a generator 102 of device 100. Figure 2 Some or all of the operations illustrated herein and described in further detail below may correspond to non-transitory processor-executable instructions, which are stored, for example, in memory and executed, for example, by an electronic controller, processing unit, dedicated control module, logic circuit, or other module or device or network of modules / devices, to perform any or all of the functions described above and below in association with the disclosed concepts. It should be understood that the execution order of the illustrated operation blocks may be changed, additional operation blocks may be added, and some of the operations described herein may be modified, combined, or deleted.

[0034] Figure 2 An exemplary method begins at block 200, wherein a charging cable (e.g., charging cable 128 of device 100) is connected to the device, such as to Figure 1A The charging port 104 of device 100. Next, moving to box 202, the generator of the device (e.g., generator 106 of device 100) will be used for external charging (e.g., such as charging to...). Figure 1A The determination 202 (of charging of the external battery 106) can be made in various ways, including but not limited to manual input (e.g., a switch that can be toggled by an operator) that instructs a device (e.g., device 100) to provide power from an onboard alternator (e.g., onboard alternator 102). This determination 202 can also be made, for example, using a second charging port configured to generate only energy. This determination 202 can also be made, for example, by determining, via a charging port control module 105, the unique resistance coupling of the charging cable 128 to the charging port 104. This determination is used to determine if something is being inserted (e.g., being inserted into...). Figure 1A The device 100 (charging port 104) is configured to receive charge (e.g., Figure 1A An exemplary technique for the external battery 116 is to use a charging cable (e.g., charging cable 128) with a unique resistance value. In some embodiments, the charging port control module 105 determines that the charging cable (e.g., charging cable 128) with a unique resistance value is coupled to the charging port 104 (e.g., by using Ohm's law to determine the unique resistance value of the charging cable). In some embodiments, at the charging port (e.g., Figure 1A The charging cable (e.g., the charging port 104) has a unique resistance value. Figure 1A The presence of the charging cable 128 can indicate a signal to be generated (e.g., by the charging port controller 105), the signal indicating device (e.g., Figure 1A The device 100 will use an on-board generator (e.g., Figure 1AThe generator 106 supplies power to an external battery (e.g., external battery 116), and this allows the method to move to the next step.

[0035] In determining ( Figure 2 ,202) Onboard generator (e.g., Figure 1A The generator 106 of the device 100 will supply power to an external battery (e.g., Figure 1A When the external battery 116) provides power, Figure 2 An exemplary method may proceed to step 204, wherein one or more contactors of the device's internal battery (e.g., internal battery contactors 136 and 138 of the internal battery 106 of device 100) are disconnected, such that no power flows to or from the internal battery. In various embodiments, the execution of step 204 ensures that the internal battery is unaffected by interactions between the on-board generator and the external battery (e.g., interactions between the on-board generator 102 and the external battery 116) (e.g., charging or discharging). In some embodiments, at step 204, an internal battery control module (e.g., Figure 1A The device 100 uses an internal battery control module 120 to disconnect or close the internal battery's (multiple) contactors.

[0036] When the internal battery is disconnected (step 204), Figure 2 An exemplary method may proceed to step 206, wherein a charging cable (e.g., charging cable 128) is connected to an external battery (e.g., external battery 116). In some embodiments, the external battery (e.g., external battery 116) may communicate with devices (e.g., charging port control module 105 and / or main controller 150) using standardized protocols such as power line communication, and confirm that the external battery is coupled to a charging port (e.g., to charging port 104).

[0037] Figure 2 An exemplary method may proceed to step 208, in which the on-board generator (e.g., generator 102) is started. In some embodiments, for example, a generator control module (e.g., Figure 1A The generator control module 122 can receive a signal indicating that the generator is about to start (e.g., from the charging port control module 105 and / or the main controller 150) and can start the on-board generator. Step 208 may include, for example, starting the generator configured as an on-board generator (e.g., Figure 1A The generator (102) is a component of the engine, but it is not required that the generator start generating electricity.

[0038] Figure 2 The exemplary method shown may proceed to step 210, where the voltage of an external battery (e.g., external battery 116) is determined. In some embodiments, the external battery (e.g., Figure 1A The external battery 116 can be configured to transmit the charging status of the external battery using, for example, a standard power line communication protocol, and the device (e.g., device 100) can be configured to receive and interpret the communication using, for example, a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing program code executable by the processor (e.g., charging port control module 105 and / or main controller 150).

[0039] An exemplary method may proceed to step 212, wherein the on-board generator (e.g., Figure 1A The generator 102 in the middle is equal to or substantially equal to the external battery (e.g., Figure 1A The external battery 116 in the middle starts generating electricity at a voltage of 116. In some embodiments, for example, the processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing program code executable by the processor (e.g., Figure 1A The generator control module 122 can be configured to receive, for example, a signal indicating the external battery voltage from the charging port control module 105. In some embodiments, the generator control module (e.g., generator control module 122) can adjust the on-board generator (e.g., ... Figure 1A The output of generator 102 in the middle is matched to the output of an external battery (e.g., Figure 1A The external battery 103 in the vehicle responds to the received signal by indicating its voltage. In some embodiments, the main controller (e.g., main controller 150) may be configured to execute instructions to adjust the on-board generator (e.g., Figure 1A The output of generator 102 in the middle.

[0040] exist Figure 2 In the exemplary method, the process may proceed to step 214, where the pre-charge contactor closes, for example... Figure 1A Pre-charge contactor 110. In some embodiments, the processor and storage are provided by (e.g., Figure 1A The processor-executable program code of the high-voltage distribution module 108 in the medium can receive signals instructing the closure of the pre-charge contactor, for example, from... Figure 1A The main controller 150 or generator control module 122 can be used to close the contactor (e.g., pre-charge contactor 110).

[0041] like Figure 2 As shown, the exemplary method may proceed to step 216, wherein verification is performed to ensure that the voltages on both sides of (multiple) precharge contactors (e.g., precharge contactor 112) are equal. In some embodiments, a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing processor-executable program code (e.g., Figure 1AThe control feedback module 118 can be configured, for example, to determine the voltage drop across (multiple) precharge contactors (e.g., precharge contactor 110). For example, once the processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing processor-executable program code (e.g., ...) are present, ... Figure 1A If the control feedback module 118 has determined that the voltages on both sides of the pre-charge contactor are equal or substantially equal (e.g., the voltage values ​​are approximately 99% (e.g., 99.326%) or higher of each other), then the processor and the non-transitory computer-readable medium storing processor-executable program code (e.g., ...) Figure 1A The control feedback module 118 can be configured to generate a signal instructing the high-voltage distribution module (e.g., high-voltage distribution module 108) to close the main contactor (e.g., main contactor 112).

[0042] The exemplary method may proceed to step 218 ( Figure 2 The high-voltage distribution module (e.g., high-voltage distribution module 108) can receive a signal indicating the closure of the main contactor (e.g., main contactor 112), allowing current to flow freely between the on-board generator (e.g., generator 102) and the external battery (e.g., external battery 116).

[0043] Figure 2 The exemplary method may continue to step 220, wherein the generator (e.g., generator 102) can generate a voltage sufficient to charge an external battery (e.g., external battery 116). In an exemplary embodiment, the generator control module (e.g. Figure 1A The generator control module 122 may receive a signal instructing the on-board generator (e.g., generator 102) to increase its voltage to the charging voltage, and the generator control module may respond to such a signal to increase the voltage of the on-board generator. In some embodiments, the charging voltage may be determined using a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing processor-executable program code (e.g., generator control module 122, charging port control module 105, and / or main controller 150), which may receive the charging voltage from an external battery (e.g., external battery 116) using a standard power line communication protocol. In some embodiments, the generator control module (e.g., generator control module 122) may use the charging voltage received from the external battery (e.g., external battery 116) to set the on-board generator (e.g., generator 102) to the charging rate voltage.

[0044] Figure 2 An exemplary method may continue to step 222, wherein an external battery (e.g.) Figure 1AThe external battery 116 is being charged (e.g., receiving charge from the on-board generator 102 via the main contactor 112 and pre-charge contactor 110 of the high voltage distribution module 108 and the charging port 104).

[0045] Figure 2 An exemplary method may continue to step 224, wherein the external battery (e.g., when the external battery is charging) can be monitored. Figure 1A The current limitation of the external battery 116. In some embodiments, the external battery (e.g., Figure 1A The external battery 116 can be configured to use a processor, memory, and / or computer-readable instructions to monitor the current in progress against a stored current limit. In some embodiments, the external battery (such as...) Figure 1A The external battery 116 can be configured, for example, to use a power line communication protocol to communicate with, for example, a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing program code executable by the processor (e.g., Figure 1A The charging port control module 105 and / or main controller 150 of the device 100 are used to transmit charging and / or current limits.

[0046] Figure 2 The exemplary method may continue to step 226, wherein (e.g., via the main controller 150 and / or generator control module 122) the output current of the on-board generator (e.g., generator 102) is adjusted to match the charging limits of the external battery (e.g., external battery 116), as may be determined in step 224 of the exemplary method. Managing the output current may, for example, use... Figure 1A The generator control module 122 adjusts the on-board generator (e.g., generator 102) to output the desired current.

[0047] like Figure 2 As shown in step 228, the exemplary method may include stopping the on-board generator (e.g., Figure 1A(Generator 102). In some embodiments, stopping the on-board generator may include a generator control module (e.g., generator control module 122) causing the generator (e.g., generator 102) to stop generating power, stopping the generator's engine, or both. In some embodiments, the on-board generator (e.g., generator 102) may stop generating power when an external battery (e.g., external battery 116) has reached its maximum capacity, which can be indicated using a power line communication protocol (e.g., to charging port controller 105 or main controller 150, and to generator control module 122). In some embodiments, the on-board generator (e.g., generator 102) may be triggered to stop generating power if a charging cable (e.g., charging cable 128) is removed, or if an attempt to remove it exists (e.g., as determined by charging port control module 105 or main controller 150 and transmitted to generator control module 122). In some embodiments, if the charging operation is overridden by some other means (e.g., manually, if the main controller 150 or the generator control module 122 determines that continuing to operate the generator is unsafe, the on-board generator (e.g., generator 102) can be stopped.

[0048] Now for reference Figure 3 The illustration shows a method for using an onboard generator (e.g., Figure 1A An exemplary method of the device 100 (generator 102) supplying power to an external battery (e.g., external battery 116). Figure 3 Some or all of the operations illustrated herein and described in further detail below may correspond to non-transitory processor-executable instructions stored, for example, in memory, and executed by, for example, an electronic controller, processing unit, dedicated control module, logic circuit, or other module or device or network of modules / devices to perform any or all of the functions described above and below in connection with the disclosed concepts. It should be understood that the execution order of the illustrated operation blocks may be changed, additional operation blocks may be added, and some of the operations described herein may be modified, combined, or eliminated.

[0049] Figure 3 An exemplary method may begin at block 300, wherein a charging cable (e.g., charging cable 128 of device 100) is connected to the device, such as to Figure 1A The charging port 104 of the device 100.

[0050] Next, move to box 302 ( Figure 3 The generator of the device (e.g., generator 106 of device 100) will be used for external charging (e.g., for charging the vehicle). Figure 1AThe determination (302) of the external battery 106 being charged. This determination can be made in a variety of ways, including but not limited to manual input (e.g., a switch that can be toggled by an operator) instructing the device to utilize a second charging port configured to generate only energy, or by providing power from an onboard generator via, for example, a charging port control module 105 that determines the unique resistance of the charging cable (e.g., charging cable 128) coupled to the charging port (e.g., charging port 104). A method for determining the device being inserted (e.g., being inserted into) Figure 1A An exemplary method for configuring the charging port 104 of device 100 to receive charge (e.g., external battery 116) is to use a charging cable (e.g., charging cable 128) with a unique resistance value. In some embodiments, a charging port control module (e.g., charging port control module 105) can determine that a charging cable with a unique resistance value is coupled to the charging port 104 (e.g., using Ohm's law to determine the unique resistance of the charging cable). In some embodiments, at the charging port (e.g., Figure 1A The charging cable (e.g., the charging port 104) has a unique resistance value. Figure 1A The presence of cable 128 can indicate a signal to be generated (e.g., by charging port controller 105), which indicates that the device (e.g., device 100) will use the on-board generator (e.g., Figure 1A The generator 106 supplies power to an external battery (e.g., external battery 116), and this allows the method to move to the next step.

[0051] After determining (step 302) the on-board generator (e.g., Figure 1A The generator 106 of the device 100 will supply power to an external battery (e.g., Figure 1A When the external battery 116) provides power, Figure 3 An exemplary method may proceed to step 204, wherein one or more contactors to the internal battery of the device (e.g., internal battery contactors 136 and 138 of the internal battery 106 of device 100) may be disconnected, thereby preventing power flow to or from the internal battery. In various embodiments, the execution of step 204 ensures that the internal battery is unaffected by interactions between the on-board generator and the external battery (e.g., interactions between the on-board generator 102 and the external battery 116) (e.g., charging or discharging). In some embodiments, at step 204, an internal battery control module (e.g., Figure 1A The device 100 uses an internal battery control module 120 to disconnect or close multiple contactors connected to the internal battery.

[0052] When the internal battery is disconnected (step 304), Figure 3An exemplary method may proceed to step 306, wherein a charging cable (e.g., charging cable 128) may be connected to an external battery (e.g., external battery 116). In some embodiments, the external battery (e.g., external battery 116) may communicate with devices (e.g., charging port control module 105 and / or main controller 150) using standardized protocols such as power line communication, and confirm that the external battery is coupled to a charging port (e.g., charging port 104).

[0053] Figure 3 An exemplary method may proceed to step 308, wherein the external battery management module (e.g., a component of external battery 116) may determine that the external battery (e.g., external battery 116) will be charged and close the external battery contactor (e.g., a plurality of components of external battery 116) to allow current to flow to the external battery (e.g., external battery 116). Figure 3 An exemplary method may proceed to step 310, wherein the on-board generator is started (e.g., Figure 1A In some embodiments, for example, a generator control module (e.g., generator 102). Figure 1A The generator control module 122 can receive signals indicating that the generator is about to start (e.g., from the charging port controller 105 and / or the main controller 150) and can enable the generator to start. This can include starting a generator configured as an on-board generator (e.g., Figure 1A The generator (102) is a component of the engine, but it is not required that the generator start generating electricity.

[0054] Next, Figure 3 The exemplary method shown may proceed to step 312, where the voltage of the external battery (e.g., external battery 116) may be determined. In some embodiments, the external battery (e.g., Figure 1A The external battery 116 can be configured to transmit the charging status of the external battery using, for example, a standard power line communication protocol, and the device (e.g., device 100) can be configured to receive and interpret the communication using, for example, a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing program code executable by the processor (e.g., charging port control module 105 and / or main controller 150).

[0055] An exemplary method may proceed to step 314, wherein the on-board generator (e.g., Figure 1A The generator 102 in the middle starts at a speed equal to or substantially equal to the external battery (e.g., Figure 1A The external battery 116 generates electricity by using a voltage (e.g., a voltage value approximately 99% (e.g., 99.326%) or higher of each other). In some embodiments, for example, a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing program code executable by the processor (e.g., Figure 1A The generator control module 122 can be configured to receive, for example, a signal indicating the external battery voltage from the charging port control module 105. In some embodiments, the generator control module (e.g., generator control module 122) can adjust the on-board generator (e.g., ... Figure 1A The output of generator 102 in the middle is matched to the output of an external battery (e.g., Figure 1A The external battery 116 in the vehicle responds to the received signal by indicating its voltage. In some embodiments, a main controller, such as a main controller 150, may be configured to execute instructions to adjust the output of the on-board generator, for example... Figure 1A Generator 102 in the middle.

[0056] Continue to refer to Figure 3 The exemplary method described herein may proceed to step 316, wherein a pre-charge contactor (e.g., Figure 1A Pre-charge contactor 110). In some embodiments, the processor and storage are provided by (e.g., Figure 1A The high-voltage distribution module 108 in the middle) has non-transitory computer-readable medium executable program code that can be received, for example, from Figure 1A The main controller 150 or generator control module 122 in the system indicates a signal to close the pre-charge contactor, and the contactor (e.g., pre-charge contactor 110) can be closed in response to the received signal.

[0057] like Figure 3 As shown, the exemplary method may proceed to step 318, where verification can be performed to confirm that the voltages on both sides of (multiple) precharge contactors (e.g., precharge contactor 112) are equal. In some embodiments, a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing processor-executable program code (e.g., Figure 1A The control feedback module 118 can be configured, for example, to determine the voltage drop across (e.g., precharge contactor 110) of the precharge contactor(s). In some embodiments, once the processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing processor-executable program code (e.g., Figure 1A If the control feedback module 118 has determined that the voltages on both sides of the pre-charge contactor are equal or substantially equal (e.g., the voltage values ​​are approximately 99% (e.g., 99.326%) or higher of each other), then the processor and the non-transitory computer-readable medium storing processor-executable program code (e.g., ...) Figure 1A The control feedback module 118 can be configured to generate a signal instructing the high-voltage distribution module (e.g., high-voltage distribution module 108) to close the main contactor (e.g., main contactor 112).

[0058] An exemplary method may proceed to step 320, wherein the high-voltage distribution module (e.g., high-voltage distribution module 108) may receive a signal instructing the closure of the main contactor (e.g., main contactor 112) to allow current to flow freely between the on-board generator (e.g., generator 102) and the external battery (e.g., external battery 116).

[0059] Figure 3 The exemplary method may continue to step 322, wherein the on-board generator (e.g., generator 102) can generate a voltage sufficient to charge an external battery (e.g., external battery 116). In some embodiments, a generator control module (e.g., Figure 1A The generator control module 122 can receive a signal instructing the on-board generator (e.g., generator 102) to increase its voltage to the charging voltage, and in response to such a signal, the generator control module can increase the voltage of the on-board generator. In some embodiments, the charging voltage can be determined using a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing processor-executable program code (e.g., generator control module 122, charging port control module 105, and / or main controller 150), which can receive the charging voltage from an external battery (e.g., external battery 116) using a standard power line communication protocol. In some embodiments, the generator control module (e.g., generator control module 122) can use the charging voltage received from the external battery (e.g., external battery 116) to set the on-board generator (e.g., generator 102) at the charging rate voltage.

[0060] Figure 3 An exemplary method may continue to step 323, wherein an external battery (e.g.) Figure 1A The external battery 116 is being charged (e.g., receiving charge from the on-board generator 102 via the main contactor 112 and pre-charge contactor 110 of the high voltage distribution module 108 and the charging port 104).

[0061] Figure 3 An exemplary method may continue to step 324, wherein the external battery (e.g., while it is being charged) can be monitored. Figure 1A The current limitation of the external battery 116. In some embodiments, the external battery (e.g., Figure 1A The external battery 116 can be configured to monitor the current in progress against stored limits using a processor, memory, and / or computer-readable instructions. In some embodiments, the external battery (such as...) Figure 1A The external battery 116 can be configured, for example, to use a power line communication protocol to communicate with, for example, a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing program code executable by the processor (e.g., Figure 1AThe charging port control module 105 and / or main controller 150 of the device 100 transmit charging and / or current limits.

[0062] Reference Figure 3 Step 326 may (e.g., via main controller 150 and / or generator control module 122) adjust the output current of the on-board generator (e.g., generator 102) to match the charging and / or current limits of the external battery (e.g., external battery 116), as may be determined in step 324. Figure 3 A generator control module can be used, for example, (e.g., Figure 1A The generator control module 122 adjusts the on-board generator (e.g., on-board generator 102) to output the desired current to manage the output current.

[0063] Reference Figure 3 Step 328 can be performed to stop the on-board generator (e.g., Figure 1A (Generator 102). In some embodiments, stopping the on-board generator may include the generator control module (e.g., generator control module 122) and / or the main controller 150 causing the generator (e.g., generator 102) to stop generating power. In some embodiments, when the external battery (e.g., external battery 116) has reached its maximum capacity, the on-board generator (e.g., generator 102) may receive a signal to stop generating power (e.g., from generator control module 122 and / or main controller 150), which can be indicated using a power line communication protocol (e.g., to charging port controller 105 or main controller 150 and to generator control module 122). In some embodiments, if the charging cable (e.g., charging cable) is removed, or if there is an attempt to remove it (e.g., as determined by charging port control module 105 or main controller 150 and transmitted to generator control module 122), the on-board generator (e.g., generator 102) may be triggered to stop generating power. In some embodiments, if the charging operation is overridden by some other means (e.g., manually, if the main controller 150 or the generator control module 122 determines that continuing to operate the generator is unsafe), the on-board generator (e.g., generator 102) can be stopped. In some embodiments, in Figure 3 In step 328 of the exemplary method, the charging module may shut down the generator engine, for example as... Figure 1A The generator 102 is a component of the engine.

[0064] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the apparatus or method may be configured to direct to a device (e.g., Figure 1B The device 142) provides AC power, and in some embodiments, it can even supply power to residences or other buildings (e.g., Figure 1BThe building (144) is supplied with electricity. Such a configuration may include an adapter for converting DC to AC (e.g., Figure 1B Adapter 140). In some embodiments, the adapter (e.g., adapter 140) may be configured to connect to the device's charging port (e.g., Figure 1B The device 100 is coupled to the charging port 104, and in some embodiments, it can be coupled using a charging cable (e.g., Figure 1B Charging cable 144). In some embodiments, the adapter (e.g., Figure 1B The adapter 140 may be part of a device (e.g., device 100). In some embodiments, the adapter (e.g., adapter 140) may be configured to increase or decrease the voltage output. The adapter (e.g., adapter 140) may be externally configured from the device (e.g., device 100), for example by plugging it into a charging port (e.g., Figure 1B In some embodiments, the charging port 104 of the device 100 can use a charging cable (e.g., Figure 1B The charging cable 144). In some embodiments, an adapter (e.g., adapter 140) may be configured to connect to, for example, a high-voltage distribution module (e.g., charging cable 144). Figure 1B The device of an additional module of the high voltage distribution module 108 (e.g., Figure 1B Inside the device 100.

[0065] In some embodiments, an exemplary method or apparatus (e.g., apparatus 100) may include software configured to simulate the operation of a grid-connected fast charger (e.g., as...). Figure 1A The device 100 is part of the main controller 150, so that there is no need for electric vehicles (e.g., Figure 1A The external battery 116) is an additional configuration necessary for receiving charge.

[0066] In some embodiments, the charging cable (e.g., Figure 1A The charging cable 128 may be locked in place during the charging process (e.g., in the charging port 104). In some embodiments, the charging port (e.g., charging port 104) may include a locking mechanism, such as a mechanical pin lock that engages immediately after the charging cable (e.g., charging cable 128) is inserted into the charging port (e.g., charging port 104).

[0067] Furthermore, aspects of this disclosure can be implemented using various computer systems, including multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics devices, minicomputers, mainframe computers, etc. Additionally, aspects of this disclosure can be implemented in a distributed computing environment, where tasks are performed by resident and remote processing devices linked via a communication network. In a distributed computing environment, program modules can reside on both local and remote computer storage media, including memory storage devices. Therefore, aspects of this disclosure can be implemented in computer systems or other processing systems using various hardware, software, or combinations thereof.

[0068] Any of the methods described herein may include machine-readable instructions for execution by (a) a processor, (b) a controller, and / or (c) any other suitable processing device. Any algorithm, software, control logic, protocol, or method disclosed herein may be embodied as software stored on a tangible medium, such as flash memory, solid-state drive (SSD) memory, hard disk drive (HDD) memory, CD-ROM, digital versatile disc (DVD), or other storage devices. The entire algorithm, control logic, protocol, or method and / or portions thereof may alternatively be executed by a device other than a controller and / or embodied in firmware or dedicated hardware (e.g., implemented by application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field-programmable logic devices (FPLDs), discrete logic, etc.). Furthermore, while a particular algorithm may be described with reference to the flowcharts and / or workflow diagrams depicted herein, many other methods for implementing the exemplary machine-readable instructions may be used alternatively.

[0069] Various aspects of this disclosure have been described in detail with reference to the illustrated embodiments; however, those skilled in the art will recognize that many modifications can be made thereto without departing from the scope of this disclosure. This disclosure is not limited to the precise construction and composition disclosed herein; any and all modifications, alterations, and variations that are apparent from the foregoing description are within the scope of this disclosure as defined by the appended claims. Furthermore, this concept expressly includes any and all combinations and sub-combinations of the foregoing elements and features.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising: dynamo; Charging port; Internal battery; processor; and A non-transitory, machine-readable storage medium encoded with processor-executable program code, used for: Determine if the charging port is connected to an external battery, and if so, determine the charging status of the external battery; Based on the determined state of charge of the external battery, the first voltage generated by the generator is matched with the second voltage of the external battery; and The external battery is charged via the charging port and using a generator.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the charging port is configured to be connected to an external power source for charging the internal battery via the charging port.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising: A charging cable configured to interact with the charging port; The charging cable has a first resistance value, wherein the first resistance value is configured to indicate that the charging port is connected to the external battery.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The generator is configured to output DC voltage.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the processor-executable program code for charging the external battery is further configured to respond to a charging limitation received from the external battery.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, Processor-executable program code is also used for: Disconnect the internal battery from the generator before matching the generator's first voltage with the external battery's second voltage.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The device is a series hybrid vehicle.

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The external battery is a component of the electric vehicle.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, Processor-executable program code is also used for: When a signal indicating that the external battery is fully charged is received, power generation by the generator is stopped.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the program code executable by the processor for charging the external battery is further configured to mimic the operation of a grid-level DC fast charger.

11. A method for charging an external battery, the method comprising: An external battery is connected to a charging port, which is associated with an internal battery and a generator. The charging state of the external battery is determined based on the determination that the charging port is connected to the external battery, using a processor and a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium encoded with processor-executable program code. Based on the determined state of charge of the external battery, the first voltage generated by the generator is matched with the second voltage of the external battery. and Use a generator to charge the external battery.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising: Couple the charging cable to the charging port, where: The charging cable includes a first resistance value; and The first resistance value is configured to indicate the connection to an external battery.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising: Using a processor and a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium encoded with processor-executable program code, determine that the charging cable includes a first resistance value; The determination that the charging port is connected to the external battery is based on the determination that the charging cable includes a first resistance value.

14. The method of claim 11, wherein the generator is configured to output a DC voltage.

15. The method of claim 11, further comprising: Charging limitations from external battery; The use of a generator to charge an external battery is based on the charging limitations of the receiver.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising: The internal battery is disconnected from the generator before the first voltage generated by the generator is matched with the second voltage of the external battery.

17. The method according to claim 11, wherein, Internal batteries, generators, charging ports, processors, and non-transitory machine-readable storage media are components of series hybrid vehicles.

18. The method of claim 11, wherein the external battery is a component of an electric vehicle.

19. The method of claim 11, further comprising: Receives an indication that the external battery has reached its maximum charging capacity; and In response to the received instruction, the generator is stopped from charging the external battery.

20. A non-transitory machine-readable storage medium encoded with processor-executable program code of a device, the processor-executable program code being used for: Determine whether the device's charging port is connected to an external battery, and if so, determine the charging status of the external battery; Based on the determined state of charge of the external battery, the first voltage generated by the generator of the device is matched with the second voltage of the external battery; and The external battery is charged via the charging port and using a generator.

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