Portable power system
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202580016266.1
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-01-18
- Filing Date
- 2025-01-17
- Publication Date
- 2026-09-29
Smart Images
Figure CN122847779A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This disclosure relates to electricity, and more specifically, to a portable power system. Background Technology
[0002] With the proliferation of portable electronic devices such as mobile phones, portable media players, and laptops, the demand for or expectation of obtaining power is also increasing. These electronic devices can obtain power by using power units that combine wireless and / or wired technologies. Summary of the Invention
[0003] The portable power system includes a portable power unit with a power interface that improves the accessibility of power to electronic devices. The power unit can use wired and / or wireless power transmission to transfer power between electronic devices, other power units, and / or mains power. The power unit has an onboard rechargeable power source, such as a battery, capable of being charged from various power sources in various ways to enhance the availability of the power unit.
[0004] Power units can be arranged in a stacked configuration with one or more additional portable power units. One power unit in the stack can be electrically coupled to an external power connector, such as a socket in the mains power grid, and power can be distributed from the external power connector to other power units in the stack. This allows more electronic devices to draw power from multiple power units in the stack without requiring a larger footprint on the surface supporting the stack and / or additional external power connectors to couple to each power unit in the stack. This charging and location flexibility makes it easier for users of electronic devices to recharge their devices in the desired location.
[0005] In one example of this disclosure, the power system includes a first power unit and a second power unit, each power unit including: opposing first and second horizontal surfaces, a vertical surface extending between the horizontal surfaces, an onboard rechargeable power source disposed between the surfaces, a first set of power contacts electrically coupled to the onboard power source and arranged on the first horizontal surface, a second set of power contacts and a third set of power contacts electrically coupled to the onboard power source and arranged on the second horizontal surface, and a plurality of electrical sockets electrically coupled to the onboard power source and arranged along the vertical surface.
[0006] In another example, the first power unit and the second power unit may be arranged in a first configuration, wherein a first horizontal surface of the first power unit contacts a second horizontal surface of the second power unit, and a first set of power contacts of the first power unit: (i) contacts a second set of power contacts of the second power unit, (ii) is capable of transmitting power to the second set of power contacts of the second power unit to charge the onboard power supply of the second power unit, and (iii) is capable of receiving power from the second set of power contacts of the second power unit to charge the onboard power supply of the first power unit.
[0007] In yet another example, the first power unit and the second power unit may be arranged in a second configuration, wherein the second horizontal surface of the first power unit contacts the first horizontal surface of the second power unit, and the first set of power contacts of the second power unit: (i) contacts the second set of power contacts of the first power unit, (ii) is capable of transmitting power to the second set of power contacts of the first power unit to charge the onboard power supply of the first power unit, and (iii) is capable of receiving power from the second set of power contacts of the first power unit to charge the onboard power supply of the second power unit.
[0008] In another example, one or more of the electrical sockets can transmit power to the electronic device, and one or more of the electrical sockets can receive power from an external power source.
[0009] In another example, the first power unit and the second power unit may be arranged in a third configuration, wherein a first horizontal surface of the first power unit contacts a second horizontal surface of the second power unit, and a first set of power contacts of the first power unit: (i) contacts a third set of power contacts of the second power unit, (ii) is capable of transmitting power to the third set of power contacts of the second power unit to charge the onboard power supply of the second power unit, and (iii) is capable of receiving power from the third set of power contacts of the second power unit to charge the onboard power supply of the first power unit.
[0010] In another example, the first power unit and the second power unit may be arranged in a fourth configuration, wherein the second horizontal surface of the first power unit contacts the first horizontal surface of the second power unit, and the first set of power contacts of the second power unit: (i) contacts the third set of power contacts of the first power unit, (ii) is capable of transmitting power to the third set of power contacts of the first power unit to charge the onboard power supply of the first power unit, and (iii) is capable of receiving power from the third set of power contacts of the first power unit to charge the onboard power supply of the second power unit.
[0011] In another example, each power unit includes a second vertical surface opposite the first vertical surface and extending between the horizontal surfaces. A first set of power contacts is arranged adjacent to the second vertical surface, a second set of power contacts is arranged adjacent to the second vertical surface, and a third set of power contacts is arranged adjacent to the first vertical surface.
[0012] In another example, each power unit includes a first set of communication contacts disposed on a first horizontal surface and adjacent to the first set of power contacts, a second set of communication contacts disposed on a second horizontal surface and adjacent to the second set of power contacts, and a third set of communication contacts disposed on the second horizontal surface and adjacent to the third set of power contacts. The communication contacts can provide information.
[0013] In another example, the power contacts of the first power unit can selectively send and receive power based on information provided from at least one of the communication contacts of the first power unit, and the power contacts of the second power unit can selectively send and receive power based on information provided from at least one of the communication contacts of the first power unit.
[0014] In another example, when the first set of communication contacts of the first power unit contacts and is communicatively coupled to either the second set of communication contacts or the third set of communication contacts of the second power unit, the first set of power contacts of the first power unit can be selectively energized. When the second set of communication contacts of the first power unit contacts and is communicatively coupled to the first set of communication contacts of the second power unit, the second set of power contacts of the first power unit can be selectively energized. When the third set of communication contacts of the first power unit contacts and is communicatively coupled to the first set of communication contacts of the second power unit, the third set of power contacts of the first power unit can be selectively energized.
[0015] In another example, the first set of power contacts and the first set of communication contacts each include two spring-loaded pins, and the second and third sets of power contacts and the second and third sets of communication contacts each include two contact pads.
[0016] In another example, each power unit includes opposing second and third vertical surfaces extending from the first vertical surface and between the first and second horizontal surfaces. The second and third vertical surfaces define corresponding opposing concave channels that can slidably engage with corresponding ribs arranged on a handle and / or mounting base.
[0017] In another example, when the power units are electrically coupled to each other, the onboard power supply of the first power unit is at a lower charging level than the onboard power supply of the second power unit, and one or more of the power units are receiving power from an external power source, the onboard power supply of the first power unit will initially receive more power from the external power source than the onboard power supply of the second power unit.
[0018] In another example, when the power units are electrically coupled to each other, and the onboard power supply of the first power unit is at a lower charging level than the onboard power supply of the second power unit, the onboard power supply of the first power unit will receive power from the onboard power supply of the second power unit.
[0019] In another example, each of the power units includes a housing that forms at least a portion of the surface and contains the onboard power supply. The housing defines a cavity that can accommodate an electronic tracking device.
[0020] In another example, each of the power units includes a movable cover that can selectively conceal the cavity.
[0021] In another example, each of the housings includes an internal protrusion having a first end adjacent to the second horizontal surface and extending toward a second end toward the first horizontal surface. The internal protrusion defines the cavity.
[0022] In another example, the power system further includes a charging base having a platform, a fourth set of power contacts, and wires extending outward from the platform, the distal ends of which are fitted with electrical plugs that can engage with an external power source. The fourth set of power contacts is positioned to contact and electrically couple to either the second or third set of power contacts.
[0023] In another example, when the first power unit and the second power unit are arranged in a first configuration, the second power unit is located on top of the first power unit, and when the first power unit and the second power unit are arranged in a second configuration, the first power unit is located on top of the second power unit.
[0024] In another example of this disclosure, the power unit includes: opposing first and second horizontal surfaces, a vertical surface extending between the horizontal surfaces, an onboard rechargeable power supply disposed between the surfaces, a first set of power contacts electrically coupled to the onboard power supply and disposed on the first horizontal surface, a second set of power contacts and a third set of power contacts electrically coupled to the onboard power supply and disposed on the second horizontal surface, and a plurality of electrical sockets electrically coupled to the onboard power supply and disposed along the vertical surface.
[0025] In another example, one or more of the electrical sockets may selectively transmit power to an electronic device.
[0026] In another example, one or more of the electrical outlets may selectively receive power from an external power source.
[0027] In another example, the power contact can: (i) selectively transmit power to the second power unit, and (ii) selectively receive power from the second power unit to charge the onboard power supply.
[0028] Therefore, portable power systems improve the accessibility of electricity for electronic devices by having portable power units capable of transmitting power between electronic devices, other power units, and / or mains power sources using wired and / or wireless power transmission. The power unit has an onboard rechargeable power supply, allowing users of electronic devices to place the power unit in any desired location to charge their devices without requiring a continuous connection to an external power connector, such as a mains outlet. Furthermore, the power unit can be arranged in a stacked configuration with other power units to provide power access to more electronic devices without requiring a larger footprint for support surfaces and / or more external power connectors.
[0029] These and other objects, advantages, uses and features of this disclosure will become apparent upon reading the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description
[0030] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a portable power system having multiple portable power units, including a single power unit located on top of a support structure, a single power unit located below the support structure, and four power units in a matched orientation stacked configuration located on top of a charging base, which is situated on top of the support structure.
[0031] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of one of the power units and the charging base;
[0032] Figure 3 It is in an alternating orientation stacking configuration. Figure 1 A perspective view of the four electrical units;
[0033] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 One of the power units and the bottom perspective view of the charging base;
[0034] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 Exploded perspective view of the front top of one of the power units;
[0035] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A front view of one of the power units;
[0036] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A top view of one of the power units;
[0037] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A block diagram of the power interface and battery, one of the power units;
[0038] Figure 9 Is with Figure 1 A front view of a portable power unit similar to one of the power units;
[0039] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 Top plan view of the power unit;
[0040] Figure 11 yes Figure 9 Bottom plan view of the power unit;
[0041] Figure 12 yes Figure 9 Side view of the power unit;
[0042] Figure 13 Is with Figure 1 A perspective view of another portable power system with multiple portable power units, similar to the system shown above;
[0043] Figure 14 Is with Figure 1 A perspective view of another portable power system with multiple power units, similar to the system shown above;
[0044] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 Rear bottom perspective view of the power unit;
[0045] Figure 16 Is with Figure 1 A partially exploded perspective view of a portable power unit and tracking device, similar to one of the power units in the picture;
[0046] Figure 17 Is with Figure 1 Top perspective view of one of the similar portable power units;
[0047] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 Bottom perspective view of the power unit;
[0048] Figure 19 yes Figure 17Another bottom perspective view of the power unit, which has a cover shown in the closed position;
[0049] Figure 20 yes Figure 17 Another bottom perspective view of the power unit shows the cover in the open position;
[0050] Figure 21 yes Figure 17 An exploded perspective view of the power unit;
[0051] Figure 22 yes Figure 17 Top perspective view of the power unit and mounting base;
[0052] Figure 23 yes Figure 17 Top perspective view of the power unit and different mounting brackets;
[0053] Figure 24 yes Figure 1 A bottom perspective view of one of the power units, which has a retractable handle;
[0054] Figure 25 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of one of the power units, which has a handle for placing the power unit under the support structure;
[0055] Figure 26 Is with Figure 16 A perspective view of another portable power unit, similar to the one with a different handle;
[0056] Figure 27 Is with Figure 16 A perspective view of another portable power unit, similar to the one with a different handle; and
[0057] Figure 28 Is with Figure 16 A perspective view of another portable power unit, similar to the one with a different handle. Detailed Implementation
[0058] Referring now to the accompanying drawings and the illustrative examples depicted therein, the portable power system 10 has a portable power unit 12a, which is portable, stackable, and modular so that one or more mobile phones 14 can conveniently draw power from the power unit 12a. Figures 1-8 In other examples, any other suitable electronic device can draw power from the power unit 12a, such as an earphone charging case, a portable media player, a laptop computer, etc.
[0059] Power unit 12a has a power interface 15 that can supply power to telephone 14 using wired and / or wireless power transmission. Figure 8 This provides users of phone 14 with flexibility in charging their phones. The power unit 12a has a rectangular shape with rounded corners. However, other suitable shapes for the power unit 12a are also conceivable.
[0060] The power unit 12a has an onboard rechargeable power source in the form of a battery 16, which is electrically coupled to the power interface 15 and can store power so that the power unit 12a can be placed in any desired location to charge the telephone 14 without needing to be coupled to an external power connector, such as a socket in the mains power grid. Figures 5-8 For example, the power unit 12a can be placed on top of a support structure 17, such as a table or desk. Figure 1 , Figure 2 In another example, the power unit 12a can be placed below the support structure 17. Figure 1 ).
[0061] System 10 has additional portable power units 12b-d that can be similar to and / or identical to the first power unit 12a. Figure 1 , Figure 3 The first power unit 12a can be placed in a matched orientation stack configuration 18a including the additional power units 12b-d. Figure 1 ) or alternating orientation stacked configuration 18b ( Figure 3 Within. When in stacked configurations 18a and 18b, power units 12a-d can be electrically coupled to each other.
[0062] The battery 16 of the first power unit 12a can be charged using various methods, such as wireless and / or wired power transmission. Figures 5-8 Furthermore, battery 16 can be charged from various power sources, such as other power units 12b-d, mains power, and / or electronic devices. This allows battery 16 to be recharged and gain sufficient battery capacity to transmit power to phone 14 without needing to be connected to a specific power source.
[0063] When power units 12a-d are in any suitable stacking configuration 18a, 18b, such as the matched orientation stacking configuration 18a ( Figure 1 ) or alternating orientation stacked configuration 18b ( Figure 3 When charging, battery 16 can be charged using power obtained from one or more of the other power units 12b-d via power interface 15. The stacked configurations 18a, 18b can be supported by the surface 20 of the support structure 17 to provide power access for more phones 14 without occupying a larger footprint on surface 20. Figure 1 , Figure 3 ).
[0064] The stacked configurations 18a, 18b improve the power accessibility of the telephone 14 by reducing the number of external power connectors (e.g., sockets in the mains grid) that need to be electrically coupled to power units 12a-d to charge their respective batteries. For example, the first power unit 12a can be arranged in the stacked configurations 18a, 18b and electrically coupled to a socket in the mains grid so that the first power unit 12a can receive power from the socket and charge the battery 16. The first power unit 12a can then deliver power from the socket to the other power units 12b-d in the stacked configurations 18a, 18b to charge their respective batteries. Thus, the batteries of power units 12a-d can be charged via a single socket. This allows more telephones 14 to be charged by being able to receive power not only from the first power unit 12a but also from the other power units 12b-d, without requiring additional sockets or other external power connectors to be electrically coupled to each of the other power units 12b-d.
[0065] Therefore, the portable power unit 12a offers location and charging flexibility, allowing the mobile phone 14 to be conveniently recharged at the desired location. The power unit 12a can be charged from a variety of power sources to enhance its availability. Furthermore, the power unit 12a can be arranged with additional portable power units 12b-d in any suitable stacking configuration 18a, 18b to provide power access to more phones 14 without requiring a larger footprint on surface 20 and / or more external power connectors (e.g., sockets in the mains power grid).
[0066] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 8 The power unit 12a has a housing 24, and the power interface 15 has a wireless power transmission assembly 22 located within the housing 24 for wirelessly transmitting power from the power unit 12a to the telephone 14 when the telephone 14 is within range of receiving power from the wireless power transmission assembly 22. Figure 1 As shown, when the telephone 14 is located above or in contact with the upper horizontal surface 26 of the power unit 12a, the telephone 14 is within the range of the wireless power transmission assembly 22, such that the telephone 14 can be electrically coupled to the wireless power transmission assembly 22 and obtain power for charging.
[0067] Reference Figures 1-8 The power interface 15 of the power unit 12a includes an electrical contact assembly 27, which has a socket assembly 30 for transmitting power from the power unit 12a to a mobile phone 14 electrically coupled to the socket assembly 30 via one or more wires. For example, as Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, telephone 14 can be electrically coupled to socket assembly 30 via wire 28, which includes an electrical connector coupled to socket assembly 30 and another electrical connector coupled to telephone 14, so that telephone 14 can obtain power for charging.
[0068] The connector assembly 30 includes a printed circuit board (PCB), such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) board with USB Type-C electrical contacts or connector 32a and USB Type-A electrical contacts or connector 32b. Figures 5-7 ).like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, one of the electrical connectors of wire 28 is compatible with USB Type-A electrical contact 32b.
[0069] The USB Type-C electrical contact 32a is aligned with the opening 34a on the front vertical surface 36a of the housing 24 so that a wire with a USB Type-C connector can be inserted into one of the openings 34a and engage with the corresponding electrical contact 32a to transmit power to an electronic device or mains power supply electrically coupled to another electrical connector on the wire. Figure 5 The USB Type-A electrical contact 32b is aligned with the opening 34b on the front surface 36a so that, Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, a wire 28 with a USB Type-A connector can be inserted into an opening 34b and engage with electrical contacts 32b to transmit power to a mobile phone 14 coupled to a different electrical connector to the wire 28. It should be appreciated that virtually any type of DC or AC contact can be provided without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, optionally including a DC-AC converter.
[0070] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 8 The electrical contact assembly 27 of the power interface 15 includes two sets of lower electrical contacts 38a and 38b disposed on the lower horizontal surface 42 of the power unit 12a, and a set of upper electrical contacts 40 disposed on the upper surface 26 of the power unit 12a. The first set of lower electrical contacts 38a includes a pair of flat contact pads disposed on the front portion 46 of the first power unit 12a, the second set of lower electrical contacts 38b includes a pair of flat contact pads disposed on the rear portion 48 of the first power unit 12a, and the set of upper electrical contacts 40 includes a pair of spring-loaded pins (also referred to as "pogo pins") disposed on the rear portion 48. Therefore, the first set of lower electrical contacts 38a is adjacent to the front surface 36a, and the second set of lower electrical contacts 38b and the set of upper electrical contacts 40 are adjacent to the rear vertical surface 36b of the housing 24. Figure 4 , 5).
[0071] Multiple sets of electrical contacts 38a, 38b, 40 can transfer power between the battery 16 of the first power unit 12a and one or more of the other power units 12b-d, for example, when the first power unit 12a is placed in a stacked configuration 18a, 18b. Figure 1 , 3 -5). For example... Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the first power unit 12a is stacked on top of or in contact with the second power unit 12b, so that power can be transmitted through the sets of lower contacts 38a, 38b of the first power unit 12b. Figure 4 One of the sets of electrical contacts is transmitted between the first power unit 12a and the second power unit 12b. This set of lower electrical contacts contacts and is electrically coupled to a set of upper electrical contacts of the second power unit 12b. The set of upper electrical contacts of the second power unit 12b can contact the set of upper electrical contacts 40 of the first power unit 12a. Figure 2 , 5 The third power unit 12c is stacked on top of or in contact with the first power unit 12a so that power can be supplied via a set of power-on contacts 40 of the first power unit 12a. Figure 2 , 5 The power is transmitted between the first power unit 12a and the third power unit 12c. The set of upper electrical contacts 40 contacts and is electrically coupled to one of the sets of lower electrical contacts of the third power unit 12c. The set of lower electrical contacts can contact and be electrically coupled to the sets of lower electrical contacts 38a, 38b of the first power unit 12b. Figure 4 One of them is the same as or similar to the first power unit 12a. Multiple power units 12b-d can transmit power in a manner similar to that described with respect to the first power unit 12a.
[0072] Due to the positions of the lower electrical contacts 38a, 38b and the electrical contact 40, virtually any suitable number of portable power units 12a-d can be housed in the stacked configurations 18a, 18b to transmit power. Furthermore, the multiple sets of electrical contacts 38a, 38b, and 40 allow the power units 12a-d to be positioned in different orientations around the vertical axis, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 3 The different stacking configurations are shown in 18a and 18b.
[0073] like Figure 1 As shown, the matched-orientation stacking configuration 18a includes power units 12a, 12b oriented in the same direction. Therefore, a set of power contacts 38b following the first power unit 12a ( Figure 4A set of power-on contacts on the rear of the second power unit 12b can be contacted to transmit power. The rear set of power-off contacts 38b can be a wired receiver device 50 of the contact assembly 27 when receiving power from the second power unit 12b, and a wired transmitter device 52 of the contact assembly 27 when transmitting power to the second power unit 12b. Figure 4 , 8 ).
[0074] like Figure 3 As shown, the alternating orientation stacked configuration 18b includes power units 12a and 12b oriented in different directions. In the alternating orientation stacked configuration 18b, the first power unit 12a is positioned relative to the second power unit 12b from... Figure 1 The orientation of the first power unit 12a shown in the matched orientation stacking configuration 18a is rotated by 180 degrees. Therefore, a set of lower electrical contacts 38a at the front of the first power unit 12a can contact a set of upper electrical contacts located at the rear of the second power unit 12b to transmit power. The set of lower electrical contacts 38a at the front can be a wired receiver device 50 of the electrical contact assembly 27 when receiving power from the second power unit 12b, and a wired transmitter device 52 when transmitting power to the second power unit 12b. Figure 4 , 8 ).
[0075] Regardless of the orientation of power units 12a and 12b, the set of upper contacts 40 can contact one of the sets of lower contacts of the third power unit 12c to transmit power. Figure 1 , 3 The power-on contacts 40 can be a wired receiver device 50 when receiving power from the third power unit 12c, and a wired transmitter device 52 when transmitting power to the third power unit 12c. Figure 2 , 5 8).
[0076] Power units 12a-d can transmit power based on whether one or more of them are receiving power from an external power source, such as mains power, electronic devices (e.g., telephone 14), etc. For example, when power units 12a-d are in stacked configurations 18a, 18b, and one or more of power units 12a-d are receiving power from an external power source, the same potential (e.g., 24 volts) can be applied to each battery of power units 12a-d. This allows the batteries to charge at a rate proportional to the ratio of the battery's current voltage to its maximum charging voltage. As a result, when power units 12a-d are in stacked configurations 18a, 18b, and one or more of power units 12a-d are receiving power from an external power source, each battery can charge at a rate proportional to the ratio of its current voltage to its maximum charging voltage.
[0077] In another example of power transfer between power units 12a-d in stacked configurations 18a, 18b while one or more of power units 12a-d are receiving power from an external power source, one or more batteries in power units 12a-d may be charged preferentially over other batteries in power units 12a-d. The batteries in power units 12a-d may be charged preferentially based on their charge level or state of charge. For example, a battery with a lower charge level may be charged preferentially and receive more power than other batteries. Therefore, for example, if battery 16 of power unit 12a has a lower charge level than the batteries in power units 12b-d, then battery 16 of power unit 12a may be charged preferentially and receive more power than the batteries in power units 12b-d.
[0078] If two or more batteries in power units 12a-d are not fully charged, these two or more batteries can be prioritized so that they are charged simultaneously. For example, the battery with the lowest charge level can be prioritized first and receive the most power until it reaches the desired intermediate charge level, such as the charge level of the battery with the highest charge level among the uncharged batteries. Then, the other uncharged batteries can receive the most power in order of charge level from lowest to highest until they all reach the desired intermediate charge level. The batteries at the desired intermediate charge level can then be charged so that they are fully charged simultaneously.
[0079] One or more of the power units 12a-d may include a controller that determines the priority of the power units 12a-d. For example, the power interface 15 of the first power unit 12a has a controller 44 that can determine the charging level of the batteries in the power units 12a-d. Figures 5-8 The controller 44 can be implemented by hardware, software, firmware, and / or any combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware. The controller 44 can regulate the power supplied to the battery 16 and / or delivered to other power units 12b-d based on the determined priority of the power units 12a-d.
[0080] When power units 12a-d are in the stacked configurations 18a, 18b and are not receiving power from an external power source, the batteries in power units 12a-d at different voltages can naturally balance or equalize their voltages by transferring power between power units 12a-d. One or more of power units 12a-d may include a controller that can prevent the equalization of power units 12a-d. For example, the controller 44 for power unit 12a may include a control PCB with diodes that allow current to flow into battery 16 only when at least one of the power units 12a-d in the stacked configurations 18a, 18b is receiving power from an external power source. As a result, when power units 12a-d are not receiving power from an external power source, controller 44 can prevent current from flowing out of battery 16 and the first power unit 12a via multiple sets of electrical contacts 38a, 38b, 40.
[0081] Reference Figure 5-8 The wireless power transmission assembly 22 of the first power unit 12a has a wireless power transmitter device 54, such as a transmitter capable of transmitting power according to the Qi standard, for delivering power from the battery 16 to the mobile phone 14 using wireless power transmission. In other examples, the wireless transmitter 54 may use any suitable wireless power transmission technology to charge the mobile phone 14, such as magnetic resonance, magnetic induction, and / or electromagnetic waves.
[0082] The wireless transmitter 54 is positioned above the battery 16 and adjacent to the upper surface 26 of the power unit 12a. Figure 5 , 6 The wireless transmitter 54 has a transmitter coil 55, which can generate a magnetic field to induce a current in the receiving coil of the mobile phone 14 and deliver power to the mobile phone 14. Figure 1 , Figures 5-7 ).
[0083] Power unit 12a has a panel 62 for covering wireless transmitter 54. Figure 5 Panel 62 forms part of upper surface 26 and allows wireless power transmission assembly 22 to deliver power from wireless transmitter 54 to mobile phone 14 and / or other power units 12b-d. Housing 24 defines recess 64 having an opening 65 aligned with wireless transmitter 54. Recess 64 can accommodate panel 62, and panel 62 can be removable or fixed to housing 24.
[0084] The battery 16 of the first power unit 12a has one or more rechargeable onboard energy storage devices, such as lithium-based batteries, capacitors, and / or fuel cells that allow for multiple power supply and release cycles. Figures 5-8As previously described, battery 16 can be charged from various power sources, such as other power units 12a-d. Battery 16 can also be charged from an external power source via a wired connection through socket assembly 30. For example, the wire can be electrically coupled to one of the electrical contacts 32a, 32b and an external power source, such as mains power or an electronic device (e.g., mobile phone 14), so that the wire can transfer power from the external power source to battery 16.
[0085] Electricity can be transferred from an external power source to the battery 16 via the charging base 57. Figures 1-4 The charging base 57 includes a platform with a wired power input terminal, the upper part of which is generally similar in shape to the upper surface 26 of the power unit 12a, so that the power unit 12a can be located on top of the charging base 57 as if it were located on top of one of the other power units 12b-d. For example, as Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the charging base 57 has a set of power-on contacts 60, which includes a pair of spring-loaded pins that can draw power from an AC power source via a wire 61. The wire 61 is electrically coupled to a wired power input terminal of the charging base 57, extends outward from the charging base 57, and has a distal end equipped with an electrical plug that can engage with an electrical socket or outlet connected to an AC power source or power grid.
[0086] The charging base 57 may include an AC-DC power converter that can receive high-voltage AC power from the wire 61 and output low-voltage DC power to the power-on contact 60. Thus, the power-on contact 60 can be energized by the power supplied from the wire 61 to the charging base 57, and the power can be supplied to one of the sets of power-on contacts 38a, 38b of the power unit 12a that is in contact with and electrically coupled to the power-on contact 60.
[0087] The wireless power transmission assembly 22 of power unit 12a includes a wireless power receiver device 56, such as a receiver capable of receiving power according to the Qi standard, so that power can be wirelessly transmitted to the wireless receiver 56 to charge battery 16. Figure 8 In other examples, the wireless receiver 56 may use any suitable wireless power transmission technology, such as magnetic resonance, magnetic induction, and / or electromagnetic waves. The wireless power transmission assembly 22 has a DC-DC power converter 58 that can receive current from the wireless receiver 56 and output current at different voltage levels to the battery 16. Figure 8 ).
[0088] The wireless receiver 56 can draw power from one or more electronic devices having wireless power output capability and within range of wirelessly transmitting power to the wireless receiver 56, such as one or more of the mobile phone 14, other power units 12b-d, and / or charging base 57. Figures 1-4 and Figure 8 For example, the second power unit 12b may have a transmitter coil that can generate a magnetic field to induce a current in the receiving coil of the wireless receiver 56, so as to wirelessly transmit power to the wireless receiver 56. Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 8 ).
[0089] The controller 44 of the power interface 15 can regulate the power of the battery 16. Figure 8 For example, controller 44 may be communicatively coupled to battery 16, wireless transmitter 54, wireless receiver 56, DC-DC converter 58 and / or electrical contact assembly 27.
[0090] It should be recognized that other examples of power unit 12a and power system 10 are envisioned. For example, Figures 9-12 Another example of portable power unit 112a is shown, which is similar to Figures 1-8 The power unit 12a shown is not a wireless power transmission assembly. Corresponding elements of power unit 112a use similar reference numerals with the same last two digits (e.g., the battery 116 of power unit 112a is the same as or similar to the battery 16 of power unit 12a). Power unit 112a includes a socket assembly 130 and multiple sets of electrical contacts 138a, 138b, 140, which can transfer power between the battery 116 and other power units, electronic devices, and / or mains power sources.
[0091] Figure 13 Another example of a power system 210 is shown, which includes a first portable power unit 212a, the first portable power unit 212a being similar to Figures 1-8 The power unit 212a shown can wirelessly transmit power to more than one telephone 214 simultaneously. Corresponding elements of the power system 210 use similar reference numerals with the same last two digits (e.g., upper surface 226 is similar to upper surface 26). The power unit 212a has an upper surface 226 that can support multiple telephones 214 for wireless charging. The power unit 212a includes a set of power-on contacts 240 disposed on the front portion 246 of the upper surface 226 of the power unit 212a. This set of power-on contacts 240 includes a pair of angled contact pads that can contact a pair of electrical contacts to achieve electrical coupling.
[0092] Figure 14 and Figure 15 Another example of a power system 310 is shown, which includes a first portable power unit 312a, the first portable power unit 312a being similar to Figures 1-8 The first power unit 12a shown is not shown, but does not have a set of lower contacts located on the front portion 346 of the power unit 312a. Corresponding components of the power system 310 use similar reference numerals with the same last two digits (e.g., power unit 312a is similar to power unit 12a). The power unit 312a includes an upper surface 326 and a lower surface 342, the upper surface 326 having a set of upper contacts 340 located on the rear portion 348 of the upper surface 326. Figure 14 The lower surface 342 has a set of lower electrical contacts 338b located at the rear portion 348 of the lower surface 342. Figure 15 The set of upper contacts 340 includes a pair of flat contact pads, and the set of lower contacts 338b includes a pair of spring-loaded pins that can contact the pair of contact pads to achieve electrical coupling.
[0093] Figure 16 Another example of portable power unit 412a is shown, which is similar to Figures 1-8 The power unit 12a shown may house an electronic tracking device 466, which can reduce the risk of theft and / or loss associated with the portability of the power unit 412a. Corresponding elements of the power unit 412a use similar reference numerals with the same last two digits (e.g., panel 462 of power unit 412a is similar to panel 62 of power unit 12a). The tracking device 466 includes any suitable tracking technology, such as a Global Positioning System (GPS) sensor, Near Field Communication (NFC) interface, Ultra Wideband (UWB) interface, and / or Bluetooth interface.
[0094] The power unit 412a includes a panel 462 that can conceal the tracking device 466. Figure 16 For example, housing 424 defines recess 464, recess 464 defines tracking device cavity 468 for supporting tracking device 466. Figure 16 The recess 464 can receive the panel 462 to conceal the tracking device 466 supported by the cavity 468. Figure 16 As shown, panel 462 and tracking device 466 are detachable. Alternatively, panel 462 and / or tracking device 466 can be fixed.
[0095] Figures 17-23 Another example of portable power unit 512a is shown, which is similar to Figures 1-8The power unit 12a shown includes a housing 524 with an internal protrusion 576 defined for receiving a tracking device, such as... Figure 16 The electronic tracking device 466 has a tracking device cavity 578. Corresponding elements of the power unit 512a use similar reference numerals with the same last two digits (e.g., housing 524 is similar to housing 24). Housing 524 has a lower side 580, and an internal protrusion 576 extends from the lower side 580 toward the upper surface 526 of the power unit 512a to the distal end. Figure 21 ).
[0096] The power unit 512a has a cover 582 that can close the cavity 578 to conceal the tracking device inside the cavity 578. Figure 19-21 The cover 582 forms part of the lower surface 542 of the power unit 512a. The power unit 512a has a hinge 584 coupled to the cover 582, which facilitates movement of the cover 582. The cover 582 can move between a closed position and an open position, the closed position being used to close the cavity 578 so that the tracking device in the cavity 578 can be concealed. Figure 19 The open position exposes cavity 578 so that the tracking device can enter and exit cavity 578. Figure 20 ).
[0097] Power unit 512a includes a lower panel 586, the lower panel 586 defining a wall 588. Figure 20 , Figure 21 When in the closed position, wall 588 can engage with the outer edge of cover 582 to form a press-fit or friction-fit connection. Figure 19 The cover 582 defines a recess 590 to define a space between the wall 588 and the cover 582 when the cover 582 is in the closed position. The recess 590 can engage with the outer edges of the wall 588 and the cover 582 to disengage the outer edges of the wall 588 and the cover 582. Figure 19 Alternatively, the cover 582 may have one or more magnets so that the cover 582 can be magnetically held on the lower panel 586 and / or the housing 524 to conceal the cavity 578.
[0098] like Figure 21As shown, power unit 512a has a wireless power receiver device 556, which is covered by a lower panel 586 while still allowing power to be delivered to the wireless receiver 556. The wireless receiver 556 is arranged below the battery 516, such that it is positioned between the lower panel 586 and the battery 516, and adjacent to the lower surface 542. Power unit 512a has a wireless power transmitter device 554 and an upper panel 562, which covers the wireless transmitter 554 while still allowing power to be transmitted from the wireless transmitter 554. The wireless transmitter 554 is arranged above the battery 516, such that it is positioned between the upper panel 562 and the battery 516, and adjacent to the upper surface 526.
[0099] Power unit 512a includes one set of power-on contacts 540 and two sets of power-off contacts 538a and 538b. Figures 17-21 The set of power contacts 540 includes two spring-loaded pins (“communication pins”) for transmitting information (e.g., data signals) and two spring-loaded pins (“power pins”) for transmitting power. The communication pins can contact two flat contact pads of another power unit to achieve communication coupling, and the power pins can contact two additional flat contact pads of the other power unit to achieve electrical coupling.
[0100] The power pins of the set of power contacts 540 may not be energized until at least one of the communication pins receives an indication that the power pin has made contact with the corresponding contact pad of another power unit to transmit power. For example, the indication may be a data electrical signal from another power unit or a compressed form of the communication pin.
[0101] The communication pins of the power-on contact 540 can also receive an indication that the power pin is no longer in contact with the corresponding contact pad of another power unit to transmit power. For example, the indication may be in the form of lost communication from another power unit or decompression of the communication pin. In response to the communication pin receiving the indication that the power pin is no longer in contact with the corresponding contact pad of another power unit, the power pins of the power-on contact 540 can be de-energized.
[0102] Each set of power contacts 538a, 538b includes two flat contact pads (“communication pads”) for transmitting information (e.g., data signals) and two flat contact pads (“power pads”) for transmitting power. The communication pads can contact two spring-loaded pins of another power unit to achieve communication coupling, and the power pads can contact two spring-loaded pins of said other power unit to achieve electrical coupling.
[0103] The power pads of the first set of power-down contacts 538a may be de-energized until at least one of the communication pads in the first set of power-down contacts 538a receives an indication that the first power pad is in contact with a corresponding spring-loaded pin of another power unit to transmit power. The power pads of the second set of power-down contacts 538b may be de-energized until at least one of the communication pads in the second set of power-down contacts 538b receives an indication that the second power pad is in contact with a corresponding spring-loaded pin of another power unit to transmit power. For example, this indication may be in the form of a data electrical signal from said other power unit.
[0104] The communication pads of power-down contacts 538a and 538b can also receive an indication that the power pad in the corresponding set of power-down contacts 538a and 538b is no longer in contact with the spring-loaded pin of the other power unit. For example, this indication could be in the form of a loss of communication with the other power unit. In response to the communication pad of the first set of power-down contacts 538a receiving an indication that the first power pad is no longer in contact with the corresponding spring-loaded pin of the other power unit, the power pad of the first set of power-down contacts 538a can be de-energized. In response to the communication pad of the second set of power-down contacts 538b receiving an indication that the second power pad is no longer in contact with the corresponding spring-loaded pin of the other power unit, the power pad of the second set of power-down contacts 538b can be de-energized.
[0105] The controller 544 can be communicatively coupled to the power-on contact 540 and / or the power-off contacts 538a, 538b to transmit information with other power units and / or control whether the power pins and power pads of the power-on contact 540 and the power-off contacts 538a, 538b are energized. For example, the controller 544 can obtain information from the communication pin or communication pad indicating that a power pad or power pin in a corresponding group is contacting the corresponding power pin or power pad, and energize the power pad or power pin based on this information. In another example, the controller 544 can obtain information from the communication pin or communication pad indicating that a power pin or power pad in a corresponding group is not contacting the corresponding power pad or power pin, and de-energize the power pin or power pad based on this information.
[0106] In yet another example, controller 544 may adjust the power delivered between battery 516 and other power units based on information from communication pins or communication pads, such information indicating the charge level of one or more batteries in the other power units. In yet another example, controller 544 may provide information to communication pins or communication pads for delivery to other power units, such information indicating the charge level of battery 516.
[0107] Reference Figure 22 and Figure 23 Various mounting options for the power unit 512a are envisioned, such as the edge mounting bracket 592a for top mounting. Figure 22 ) and U-shaped bracket mounting base 592b for bottom mounting ( Figure 23 Mounting bases 592a, 592b include opposing sides 593a, 593b having opposing ribs 594a, 594b. Figure 22 , 23 The power unit 512a has a pair of concave channels 595 defined by opposite sides of the housing 524. Figure 17 , Figure 18 , Figure 22 , Figure 23 The concave channel 595 of the power unit 512a can be slidably engaged with the ribs 594a, 594b of the mounting bases 592a, 592b to secure the power unit 512a to the mounting bases 592a, 592b.
[0108] like Figure 22 As shown, the edge mount 592a includes a lower platform 596 extending between opposing sides 593a. The edge mount 592a includes a clamp 597 coupled to the lower platform 596. The clamp 597 can be secured to an edge portion of a support structure, such as a desk, table, countertop, shelf, or any other desired work surface. The clamp 597 has one or more openings that allow fasteners, such as bosses, to extend through the openings and further secure the edge mount 592a to the support structure.
[0109] Figure 23 As shown, the U-shaped bracket mount 592b includes an upper platform 598 extending between opposite sides 593b. The upper platform 598 can be secured to the underside of a support structure (such as a desk, table, countertop, shelf, or any other desired work surface). The upper platform 598 has one or more openings that allow fasteners, such as bosses, to extend through the openings and further secure the U-shaped bracket mount 592b to the support structure.
[0110] In some examples, the lower platform 596 and / or the upper platform 598 may have wireless power transmitter devices, such as transmitters that can transmit power in accordance with the Qi standard, for delivering power to the wireless receiver 556 when the power unit 512a contacts the mounting bases 592a, 592b.
[0111] Portable power units can incorporate various other features to improve usability. For example, such as... Figure 15 As shown, the lower surface 342 of the power unit 312a includes one or more anti-slip pads 370 for limiting the movement of the power unit 312b. In another example, as... Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, the power unit 12a includes one or more light sources 72 at the socket assembly 30 for indicating information such as the charge level of the battery 16, the operating status of the wireless power transmission assembly 22, and whether the power unit 12a is connected to an external power source. The light source 72 may include a light-emitting diode.
[0112] The light source 72 may include a first light source 72, which may flash when the battery 16's charge level is between 0% and 25% of its full charge. When the battery 16's charge level is between 25% and 50% of its full charge, the first light source 72 may remain lit without flashing, while the second light source in the light source 72 may flash. When the battery 16's charge level is between 50% and 75% of its full charge, the first and second light sources 72 may remain lit without flashing, while the third light source in the light source 72 may flash. When the battery 16's charge level is between 75% and 100% of its full charge, the first, second, and third light sources 72 may remain lit without flashing, while the fourth light source in the light source 72 may flash. When the battery 16 is fully charged, all light sources 72 may remain lit.
[0113] Portable power units can be equipped with various types of handles to facilitate handling and transportation, and reduce the risk of damage during handling, such as damage caused by drops during transport. For example, such as... Figures 1-4 and Figure 24 As shown, the power unit 12a has a handle 74a, which includes a pair of bearings or ribs 99a disposed inside the handle 74a, these bearings or ribs being movably coupled to corresponding concave channels 99b defined by opposite vertical surfaces of the housing 24. This allows the handle 74a to be in a retracted position along the concave channels 99b. Figures 1-4 ) and unfolding position ( Figure 24 The ribs 99a and concave channels 99b can move between each other. The ribs 99a and concave channels 99b can be T-shaped. In another example, such as... Figure 1 and Figure 25 As shown, the power unit 12a has a handle 74b spanning the upper surface 26. Figure 25 The handle 74b can be used to place the power unit 12a under the support structure 17. Figure 1 ).like Figures 15-21 , Figure 27 and Figure 28 As shown, other types of handles, such as 374c, 574c, and 474d-f, can also be implemented.
[0114] although Figures 1-28 An example of a portable power unit is shown in the image, but... Figures 1-28One or more of the components shown in the diagram can be combined, separated, rearranged, omitted, and / or implemented in any other way. For example, electrical contacts can be implemented by any other type of conductor capable of transmitting power (e.g., fixed pins). In another example, the lower and upper electrical contacts of the power unit can be rearranged so that the lower surface each has a set of lower contacts similar to upper contact 540, and the upper surface each has two sets of upper contacts similar to lower contacts 538a and 538b. Figures 1-7 , Figures 9-12 , Figures 16-28 ).
[0115] also, Figures 1-28 The portable power unit shown may include, in addition to Figures 1-28 Other than the elements shown and / or substitutes Figures 1-28 One or more elements shown, and / or may include more than one Figures 1-28 The components shown are examples of this. For instance, a power unit may have one or more sets of additional electrical contacts.
[0116] Figures 5-8 The controller 44, wireless power transmission assembly 22 and / or electrical contact assembly 27 shown can be implemented by hardware, software, firmware and / or any combination of hardware, software and / or firmware. Figures 5-8 The controller 44, wireless power transmission assembly 22 and / or electrical contact assembly 27 shown may be implemented as one or more devices, such as a programmable processor (e.g., field-programmable gate array, programmable logic controller), a microprocessor (e.g., central processing unit, multi-core processor, encryption processor, digital signal processor, graphics processing unit), a microcomputer (e.g., electronic control unit), a microcontroller, a state machine and / or a circuit (e.g., analog circuit, logic circuit, encryption circuit, application-specific integrated circuit).
[0117] Therefore, portable power systems include portable power units with a power interface that improves the accessibility of power for electronic devices by having the ability to transfer power between electronic devices, other power units, and / or mains power sources using wired and / or wireless power transmission. The power unit's battery can be charged from various power sources in various ways to improve the power unit's availability. The power unit can be arranged in a stacked configuration with other power units to provide power access to more electronic devices without requiring a larger footprint on the support surface of the stacked configuration and / or more external power connectors (e.g., sockets in the mains power grid).
[0118] This document uses various terms such as “communication coupling” to describe communication between components. As used herein, communication can be direct communication and / or indirect communication through one or more intermediate components. Furthermore, communication can be continuous communication and / or selective communication at periodic intervals, predetermined intervals, non-periodic intervals, and / or one-off events.
[0119] Various terms such as “connection,” “joint,” and “coupled” are used to describe the connection relationships between elements. As used herein, a connection relationship can be a direct relationship and / or an indirect relationship in which one or more intermediary elements are located between a first element and a second element.
[0120] The spatial relationships between components are described using various terms such as “front,” “back,” “up,” “down,” “top,” “bottom,” “side,” “vertical,” and “horizontal.” As used in this paper, the spatial relationships of components do not restrict the orientation of the components, as other orientations of the components can be used.
[0121] It should be understood that “comprising,” “including,” and “having” (as well as all other forms, such as tense) are used herein as open-ended terms. Therefore, whenever any form of “comprising,” “including,” or “having” is referenced as a preamble or in any type of claim statement, it should be understood that additional elements, terms, etc., may be present without exceeding the scope of the corresponding claim.
[0122] As used herein, singular references (e.g., “a,” “one,” “first,” “second”) do not exclude plurals. The term “a” or “one” refers to one or more of that entity. The terms “a” (or “one”), “one or more,” and “at least one” are used interchangeably. The term “and / or” when used in the form of, for example, A, B, and / or C, refers to any combination or subset of A, B, and C, such as (1) only A, (2) only B, (3) only C, (4) A and B, (5) A and C, (6) B and C, and (7) A and B and C.
[0123] Various changes and modifications may be made to the specific examples described without departing from the principles of this disclosure, which is intended to be limited only by the scope of the appended claims as interpreted in accordance with patent law rules, including the doctrine of equivalents.
Claims
1. An electric power system, comprising: A first power unit and a second power unit, each power unit comprising: The first and second horizontal surfaces are relative; A vertical surface extending between the horizontal surfaces; An onboard rechargeable power supply positioned between the surfaces; A first set of electrical contacts electrically coupled to the airborne power supply and arranged on the first horizontal surface; A second set of power contacts and a third set of power contacts electrically coupled to the airborne power supply and arranged on the second horizontal surface; and Multiple electrical connectors electrically coupled to the airborne power supply and arranged along the vertical surface; The first power unit and the second power unit are configured to be arranged in a first configuration, wherein the first horizontal surface of the first power unit is in contact with the second horizontal surface of the second power unit, and the first set of power contacts of the first power unit: (i) is in contact with the second set of power contacts of the second power unit, (ii) is configured to transmit power to the second set of power contacts of the second power unit to charge the airborne power supply of the second power unit, and (iii) is configured to receive power from the second set of power contacts of the second power unit to charge the airborne power supply of the first power unit; The first power unit and the second power unit are configured to be arranged in a second configuration, wherein the second horizontal surface of the first power unit contacts the first horizontal surface of the second power unit, and the first set of power contacts of the second power unit: (i) contacts the second set of power contacts of the first power unit, (ii) is configured to transmit power to the second set of power contacts of the first power unit to charge the onboard power supply of the first power unit, and (iii) is configured to receive power from the second set of power contacts of the first power unit to charge the onboard power supply of the second power unit; and At least one of the electrical sockets is configured to transmit power to an electronic device, and at least one of the electrical sockets is configured to receive power from an external power source.
2. The power system according to claim 1, wherein the first power unit and the second power unit are configured as follows: Arranged in a third configuration, wherein the first horizontal surface of the first power unit contacts the second horizontal surface of the second power unit, and the first set of power contacts of the first power unit: (i) contacts the third set of power contacts of the second power unit, (ii) is configured to transmit power to the third set of power contacts of the second power unit to charge the onboard power supply of the second power unit, and (iii) is configured to receive power from the third set of power contacts of the second power unit to charge the onboard power supply of the first power unit; and Arranged in a fourth configuration, wherein the second horizontal surface of the first power unit contacts the first horizontal surface of the second power unit, and the first set of power contacts of the second power unit: (i) contacts the third set of power contacts of the first power unit, (ii) is configured to transmit power to the third set of power contacts of the first power unit to charge the onboard power supply of the first power unit, and (iii) is configured to receive power from the third set of power contacts of the first power unit to charge the onboard power supply of the second power unit.
3. The power system according to claim 2, wherein the first power unit is configured to be arranged in a first orientation relative to the second power unit when in the first configuration and the second configuration, and to be arranged in a second orientation relative to the second power unit when in the third configuration and the fourth configuration, wherein the first orientation is rotated 180 degrees relative to the second orientation.
4. The power system according to claim 3, wherein the vertical surface is a first vertical surface, wherein each of the power units includes a second vertical surface opposite to the first vertical surface and extending between the horizontal surfaces, wherein a first set of power contacts is arranged adjacent to the second vertical surface, a second set of power contacts is arranged adjacent to the second vertical surface, and a third set of power contacts is arranged adjacent to the first vertical surface.
5. The power system according to claim 1, wherein each of the power units includes a first set of communication contacts disposed on the first horizontal surface and adjacent to the first set of power contacts, a second set of communication contacts disposed on the second horizontal surface and adjacent to the second set of power contacts, and a third set of communication contacts disposed on the second horizontal surface and adjacent to the third set of power contacts, wherein the communication contacts are configured to provide information.
6. The power system according to claim 5, wherein the power contact of the first power unit is configured to selectively send and receive power based on information provided from at least one of the communication contacts of the first power unit, and the power contact of the second power unit is configured to selectively send and receive power based on information provided from at least one of the communication contacts of the first power unit.
7. The power system according to claim 5, wherein the first set of power contacts of the first power unit is configured to be selectively energized when the first set of communication contacts of the first power unit contacts are in contact and communicatively coupled with any one of the second set of communication contacts and the third set of communication contacts of the second power unit, wherein the second set of power contacts of the first power unit is configured to be selectively energized when the second set of communication contacts of the first power unit contacts are in contact and communicatively coupled with the first set of communication contacts of the second power unit, and wherein the third set of power contacts of the first power unit is configured to be selectively energized when the third set of communication contacts of the first power unit contacts and communicatively coupled with the first set of communication contacts of the second power unit.
8. The power system according to claim 7, wherein the first set of power contacts and the first set of communication contacts each include two spring-loaded pins, and wherein the second set of power contacts and the second set of communication contacts each include two contact pads.
9. The power system according to claim 1, wherein each of the vertical surfaces is a first vertical surface, wherein each of the power units includes opposing second and third vertical surfaces extending from the first vertical surface and between the first and second horizontal surfaces, and wherein the second and third vertical surfaces define corresponding opposing concave channels configured to slidably engage with corresponding ribs arranged on at least one of the handle and the mounting base.
10. The power system according to claim 1, wherein the power system is configured such that when the power units are electrically coupled to each other, the onboard power supply of the first power unit is at a lower charging level than the onboard power supply of the second power unit, and at least one of the power units is receiving power from an external power source, the onboard power supply of the first power unit will initially receive more power from the external power source than the onboard power supply of the second power unit.
11. The power system according to claim 1, wherein the power system is configured such that when the power units are electrically coupled to each other and the onboard power supply of the first power unit is at a lower charging level than the onboard power supply of the second power unit, the onboard power supply of the first power unit receives power from the onboard power supply of the second power unit.
12. The power system according to claim 1, wherein each of the power units includes a housing that forms at least a portion of the surface and contains the onboard power supply, wherein the housing defines a cavity configured to house an electronic tracking device.
13. The power system of claim 12, wherein each of the power units includes a movable cover configured to selectively conceal the cavity.
14. The power system of claim 13, wherein each of the housings includes an internal protrusion having a first end adjacent to the second horizontal surface and extending toward a second end toward the first horizontal surface, wherein the internal protrusion defines the cavity.
15. The power system according to claim 1, further comprising a charging base, the charging base including a platform, a fourth set of power contacts and a wire extending outward from the platform, the distal end of the wire being fitted with an electrical plug configured to engage with an electrical socket of an external power source, wherein the fourth set of power contacts is positioned to contact and electrically couple to either the second set of power contacts or the third set of power contacts.
16. The power system according to claim 1, wherein when the first power unit and the second power unit are arranged in the first configuration, the second power unit is located on top of the first power unit, and wherein when the first power unit and the second power unit are arranged in the second configuration, the first power unit is located on top of the second power unit.
17. An electrical unit, comprising: The first and second horizontal surfaces are relative; A vertical surface extending between the horizontal surfaces; An onboard rechargeable power supply disposed between the surfaces; A first set of electrical contacts electrically coupled to the airborne power supply and arranged on the first horizontal surface; A second set of power contacts and a third set of power contacts are electrically coupled to the airborne power supply and arranged on the second horizontal surface; Multiple electrical connectors electrically coupled to the airborne power supply and arranged along the vertical surface; At least one of the electrical sockets is configured to selectively deliver power to an electronic device; At least one of the electrical sockets is configured to selectively receive power from an external power source; and The power contact is configured to: (i) selectively transmit power to the second power unit, and (ii) selectively receive power from the second power unit to charge the onboard power supply.
18. The power unit according to claim 17, wherein the vertical surface is a first vertical surface, wherein the power unit further comprises opposing second and third vertical surfaces extending from the first vertical surface and between the first and second horizontal surfaces, and wherein the second and third vertical surfaces define corresponding opposing concave channels configured to slidably engage with corresponding ribs arranged on at least one of the handle and the mounting base.
19. The power unit according to claim 17, further comprising a first set of communication contacts disposed on the first horizontal surface and adjacent to the first set of power contacts, a second set of communication contacts disposed on the second horizontal surface and adjacent to the second set of power contacts, and a third set of communication contacts disposed on the second horizontal surface and adjacent to the third set of power contacts, wherein the communication contacts are configured to provide information; and The first set of power contacts is configured to be selectively energized when the first set of communication contacts contacts and is communicatively coupled to the second power unit, the second set of power contacts is configured to be selectively energized when the second set of communication contacts contacts and is communicatively coupled to the second power unit, and the third set of power contacts is configured to be selectively energized when the third set of communication contacts contacts and is communicatively coupled to the second power unit.
20. An electric power system, comprising: A first power unit and a second power unit, each comprising: The first and second horizontal surfaces are relative; Opposite first and second vertical surfaces extending between the horizontal surfaces; A third and a fourth vertical surface extending between the horizontal surfaces and between the first and second vertical surfaces; A shell that forms at least a portion of the surface; An onboard rechargeable power supply disposed within the housing; Two spring-loaded communication pins are arranged on the first horizontal surface and adjacent to the first vertical surface, and are configured to provide first information; Two spring-loaded power pins, electrically coupled to the airborne power supply, are arranged on the first horizontal surface and adjacent to the spring-loaded communication pins, and are configured to be selectively energized based on the first information; Two first communication contact pads are arranged on the second horizontal surface and adjacent to the first vertical surface, and are configured to provide second information; Two first power contact pads, electrically coupled to the airborne power supply, are arranged on the second horizontal surface and adjacent to the first communication contact pads, and are configured to be selectively energized based on the second information; Two second communication contact pads are arranged on the second horizontal surface and adjacent to the second vertical surface, and are configured to provide third information; Two second power contact pads, electrically coupled to the airborne power supply, are arranged on the second horizontal surface and adjacent to the second communication contact pads, and are configured to be selectively energized based on the third information; Multiple electrical connectors electrically coupled to the airborne power supply and arranged along the second vertical surface; A wireless power receiver electrically coupled to the airborne power source and arranged adjacent to the second horizontal surface; A wireless power transmitter electrically coupled to the airborne power source and disposed adjacent to the first horizontal surface; and A pair of concave channels defined by corresponding surfaces of the third and fourth vertical surfaces, the concave channels being configured to slidably engage with corresponding ribs arranged on at least one of the handle and the mounting base; The first power unit and the second power unit are configured to be arranged in a first configuration, wherein the first horizontal surface of the first power unit is in contact with the second horizontal surface of the second power unit, and the first set of power contacts of the first power unit: (i) is in contact with the second set of power contacts of the second power unit, (ii) is configured to transmit power to the second set of power contacts of the second power unit to charge the airborne power supply of the second power unit, and (iii) is configured to receive power from the second set of power contacts of the second power unit to charge the airborne power supply of the first power unit; The first power unit and the second power unit are configured to be arranged in a second configuration, wherein the second horizontal surface of the first power unit contacts the first horizontal surface of the second power unit, and the first set of power contacts of the second power unit: (i) contacts the second set of power contacts of the first power unit, (ii) is configured to transmit power to the second set of power contacts of the first power unit to charge the airborne power supply of the first power unit, and (iii) is configured to receive power from the second set of power contacts of the first power unit to charge the airborne power supply of the second power unit; The first power unit and the second power unit are configured to be arranged in a third configuration, wherein the first horizontal surface of the first power unit is in contact with the second horizontal surface of the second power unit, and the first set of power contacts of the first power unit: (i) is in contact with the third set of power contacts of the second power unit, (ii) is configured to transmit power to the third set of power contacts of the second power unit to charge the airborne power supply of the second power unit, and (iii) is configured to receive power from the third set of power contacts of the second power unit to charge the airborne power supply of the first power unit; The first power unit and the second power unit are configured to be arranged in a fourth configuration, wherein the second horizontal surface of the first power unit contacts the first horizontal surface of the second power unit, and the first set of power contacts of the second power unit: (i) contacts the third set of power contacts of the first power unit, (ii) is configured to transmit power to the third set of power contacts of the first power unit to charge the airborne power supply of the first power unit, and (iii) is configured to receive power from the third set of power contacts of the first power unit to charge the airborne power supply of the second power unit; The first power unit is configured to be arranged in a first orientation relative to the second power unit when in the first configuration and the second configuration; The first power unit is configured to be arranged in a second orientation relative to the second power unit when in the third and fourth configurations; Wherein the first orientation is rotated 180 degrees relative to the second orientation; and At least one of the electrical sockets is configured to transmit power to an electronic device, and at least one of the electrical sockets is configured to receive power from an external power source.