PORTABLE CHARGER

Abstract

Portable charger (10A, 10B) that features: an AC input unit (201, 202) that can be connected to an output unit (301a, 302a) of a power supply unit (301, 302), wherein the AC input unit (201, 202) receives AC current from the output unit (301a, 302a) of the power supply unit (301, 302); a DC output unit (203) that can be connected to a current receiving unit (303a) of a power supply destination (303), wherein the DC output unit (203) outputs DC current to the current receiving unit (303a) of the power supply destination (303); a power conversion circuit (110) that converts the alternating current supplied by the AC input unit (201, 202) into direct current and outputs the direct current to the direct current output unit (203); and a control unit (150) that controls the power conversion circuit (110), wherein the DC output unit (203) has a start switch (203b), when the start switch (203b) is activated by a user, the start switch (203b) instructs the control unit to control the power conversion circuit (110) so that the DC output unit (203) outputs the DC current, and if at least one of the AC input unit (201, 202) and the DC output unit (203) is not connected, the start switch (203b) is deactivated, wherein the portable charger (10A, 10B) additionally features a presentation device (203e) which provides an initial presentation when the start switch (203b) is activated by the user, with both the AC input unit (201, 202) and the DC output unit (203) connected, and provides a second presentation that differs from the first presentation when the start switch (203b) is pressed by the user, wherein at least one of the AC input unit (201, 202) and the DC output unit (203) is not connected, wherein the start switch (203b) is illuminated, and the presentation device (203e) changes the illumination state of the start switch (203b) between the first presentation and the second presentation, characterized in that the start switch (203b) has a light emitter (210) for illuminating the start switch (203b).

Description

[0001] This non-provisional application is based on Japanese patent application No. 2021-014337, which was filed with the Japanese Patent Office on February 1, 2021, and the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. BACKGROUND area

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a portable charger and in particular to a portable charger that receives alternating current and outputs direct current. Description of the state of the art

[0003] For example, Japanese patent disclosure no. 2020-043636 (JP 2020-043636 A) discloses a portable charger that receives alternating current and outputs direct current. SUMMARY

[0004] According to the portable charger described in Japanese Patent Application Publication JP 2020-43636A, a vehicle's energy storage device can be charged using an electric vehicle supply unit (EVSE) that provides alternating current. A user can initiate the charging process by connecting the portable charger to both the EVSE and the vehicle, and then pressing a start switch provided on the EVSE. However, the aforementioned process at the start of the charging process is inconvenient for the user, and requiring the user to perform such a process at the beginning of the charging process reduces user convenience. The portable charger described in Japanese Patent Application Publication JP 2020-43636A is in need of improvement with regard to user convenience.

[0005] Publication US 2013 / 0260595A1 discloses a portable charger according to the preamble of claim 1. Publication JP 2009-194958A discloses another charger.

[0006] Based on US 2013 / 0260595A1, the purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a portable charger with improved user convenience in a process at the beginning of the charging process.

[0007] A portable charger according to the present disclosure comprises: an AC input unit; a DC output unit; a power conversion circuit; and a control unit. The AC input unit is connectable to an output unit of a power supply device, and the AC input unit receives AC current from the output unit of the power supply device. The DC output unit is connectable to a current receiving unit of a power supply destination, and the DC output unit supplies DC current to the current receiving unit of the power supply destination. The power conversion circuit converts the AC current supplied by the AC input unit into DC current and supplies the DC current to the DC output unit. The control unit controls the power conversion circuit.The DC output unit has a start switch. When the start switch is activated by a user, it instructs the control unit to operate the power conversion circuitry so that the DC output unit delivers direct current. The portable charger is configured so that the start switch is disabled when at least one of the AC input unit and the DC output unit is not connected. The portable charger also has a presentation device.The presentation device provides a first presentation when the start switch is pressed by the user, with both the AC input unit and the DC output unit connected, and provides a second presentation, different from the first, when the start switch is pressed by the user, with at least one of the AC input unit and the DC output unit not connected. The start switch is illuminated.

[0008] The presentation device toggles the illumination state of the start switch between the first and second presentations. The start switch has a light emitter to illuminate the start switch.

[0009] According to the portable charger described above, the user can initiate the power supply (direct current feed) to the power destination by connecting the AC input unit of the portable charger to the output unit of the power destination, then connecting the DC output unit of the portable charger to the power destination's power receiving unit, and finally pressing the start switch located on the DC output unit. Since the user is likely to be holding the DC output unit and connecting it to the power receiving unit, it is easy for the user to press the start switch after making the connection. The user can perform the connection of the DC output unit and the pressing of the start switch as a single, continuous process.Therefore, according to the configuration described above, user comfort can be improved in the process at the beginning of the charging process.

[0010] In the portable charger described above, the DC output unit is equipped with a start switch. Therefore, the user could accidentally activate the start switch while holding the DC output unit and connecting it to the power receiving unit. Outputting DC power to the DC output unit when it is not connected to the power receiving unit is undesirable, as it can lead to wasteful power consumption or malfunctions. Therefore, the portable charger is configured so that the start switch is disabled when at least one of the AC input units and the DC output unit is disconnected. As a result, DC output to the DC output unit is suppressed when it is not connected to the power receiving unit.

[0011] According to the configuration described above, the user can more easily detect the connection status of the AC input unit and the DC output unit when the start switch is pressed.

[0012] When the user presses the start button, there is a high probability that they will see the start button. Therefore, according to the configuration described above, the user can easily check the first and second presentations.

[0013] The portable charger described above may additionally include a locking mechanism that switches the start switch between a locked state and an unlocked state, where the locked state restricts user operation of the start switch and the unlocked state allows user operation. The portable charger described above may be configured such that the locking mechanism places the start switch in the locked state, thereby disabling the start switch, whenever at least one of the AC input unit and the DC output unit is disconnected.

[0014] According to the configuration described above, the user can detect whether the start switch is enabled or disabled, i.e., whether the start switch can be operated as usual or not.

[0015] The portable charger described above may additionally feature an input device that allows the user to set a timer or scheduled charging mode. The portable charger described above may be configured so that the start switch is disabled when the user has set a timer charging mode.

[0016] Scheduled charging is charging according to a preset schedule. With scheduled charging, the charging process starts at the preset start time. Depending on the configuration described above, the start of the charging process triggered by pressing the start button and the start of the charging process triggered by the arrival of the scheduled start time can occur at different times.

[0017] The input device can be located on the DC output unit.

[0018] Since the user likely holds the DC output unit in their hand and connects it to the power receiving unit, it is easy for the user to operate the input device after connecting the DC output unit. According to the configuration described above, the user can perform the connection of the DC output unit and the setting of the timed charging as a series of processes.

[0019] Each of the portable chargers described above can be used to charge a vehicle's energy storage device or power storage device. Specifically, each of the portable chargers described above can be configured as described below.

[0020] For all the portable chargers described above, the power supply destination can be a vehicle with a power storage device. The power receiving unit can be a DC input of the vehicle. The DC output unit can be a DC connector that can be connected to the DC input.

[0021] The power supply unit can be a primary electric vehicle power supply unit with a socket. The output unit can be the socket of the primary electric vehicle power supply unit. The AC input unit can be an AC plug that can be connected to the socket.

[0022] The power supply unit can be a second electric vehicle power supply unit with a cable. The output unit can be a connector for the cable of the second electric vehicle power supply unit. The AC input unit can be an AC input that can be connected to the plug of the cable.

[0023] Each portable charger described above may additionally include: a housing, a first cable, and a second cable. The power conversion circuit may be integrated into the housing. The power conversion circuit may be connected to the AC input unit via the first cable and to the DC output unit via the second cable.

[0024] Although the power conversion circuit can be integrated into one of the AC input units and the DC output units, space is required to house the power conversion circuit. In the configuration described above, the power conversion circuit is located in the housing that connects to the AC input unit and the DC output unit via cables, thus reducing the size of both units.

[0025] The aforementioned and other tasks, features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become clearer from the following detailed description of the present disclosure in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 shows an example of the appearance of a portable charger according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 2 shows a configuration in a housing of the portable charger according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 3 shows an example of a circuit configuration of a [device / system] in [a specific context]. Fig. 1 AC / DC conversion circuit shown. Fig. Figure 4 shows a locking state by a locking mechanism of a Fig. 1 DC connector shown. Fig. Figure 5 shows an unlocked state due to the locking mechanism of the in Fig. 1 DC connector shown. Fig. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing a process relating to the start of the charging process in the charging control according to the present disclosure. Fig. Figure 7 shows the DC connector before connection to the portable charger according to the present disclosure. Fig. 8 shows a state in which the in Fig. The 7 DC connectors shown are connected to a DC input. Fig. Figure 9 shows a modification of means for disabling a start button. Fig. Figure 10 shows an example of a screen for setting timed loading. Fig. 11 is a flowchart that represents a first modification of the one in Fig. The process shown in section 6 demonstrates this. Fig. 12 is a flowchart that represents a second modification of the one in Fig. The process shown in section 6 demonstrates this. Fig. Figure 13 shows a modification of an initial presentation. Fig. Figure 14 shows a modification of a second presentation. Fig. 15 shows a modification of the in Fig. 2 portable chargers shown. Fig. 16 shows a modification of the in Fig. 1 portable charger shown. Fig. Figure 17 shows the internal structure of the in Fig. 16 portable chargers shown. DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EXECUTION FORMS

[0026] An embodiment of the present disclosure is described in detail with reference to the drawings, in which the same or corresponding sections are identified by the same reference numerals and whose description is not repeated.

[0027] Fig. Figure 1 shows an example of the appearance of a portable charger according to the present embodiment. Fig. Figure 1 is a 10A charger, a portable charger with a housing 100A, an AC plug 201, and a DC connector 203. The housing 100A is connected to the AC plug 201 via a cable 201a and to the DC connector 203 via a cable 203a. The housing 100A also has an AC terminal 101A, which receives the AC current from the AC plug 201, and a DC terminal 103A, which outputs DC current to the DC connector 203. Each of the cables 201a and 203a has an electrical wire. A first electrical wire in cable 201a and a second electrical wire in cable 203a are connected to a circuit in the housing 100A via the AC terminal 101A and the DC terminal 103A, respectively. In the present embodiment, the AC plug 201 and the DC connector 203 correspond to examples of the “AC input unit” and the DC connector 203, respectively.the “DC output unit” according to the present disclosure. Cable 201a and cable 203a correspond to examples of the “first cable” and the “second cable” respectively according to the present disclosure.

[0028] In the 10A charger according to the present embodiment, the DC connector 203 comprises a start button 203b, a detector 203c, a control panel 203d, and a display 203e. The start button 203b is illuminated. The start button 203b includes a light emitter 210 (e.g., a light-emitting diode). In the present embodiment, the start button 203b corresponds to an example of a "start switch" according to the present disclosure. A locking mechanism 220 is provided in the DC connector 203. Details of a configuration of the DC connector 203 are described below.

[0029] Fig. Figure 2 shows a configuration of the 10A charger according to the present embodiment. Fig. Figure 2 shows the 10A charger in an enlarged view, and the 10A charger is a portable charger that can be loaded into and unloaded from a vehicle 303.

[0030] As in the Fig. 1 and Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the 10A charger comprises a housing 100A. Inside the housing 100A, the 10A charger includes an AC / DC conversion circuit 110, a voltage sensor 121, a sensing circuit 122, and a control unit 150. Outside the housing 100A, the 10A charger includes an AC plug 201 and a DC connector 203. The AC plug 201 and the AC terminal 101A are connected by cable 201a. The DC connector 203 and the DC terminal 103A are connected by cable 203a.

[0031] The vehicle 303 comprises a direct current input (DC input) 303a and an energy storage device 303b. The vehicle 303 is, for example, a battery-powered electric vehicle that travels using the electrical energy stored in the energy storage device 303b. The energy storage device 303b is, for example, a secondary battery that supplies power to a (not shown) drive motor of the vehicle 303. The energy storage device 303b can be a composite battery with several lithium-ion secondary batteries. The DC connector 203 serves to electrically connect the charger 10A to the energy storage device 303b. The DC connector 203 is connectable to the DC input 303a of the vehicle 303. In the present embodiment, the vehicle 303 and the DC input 303a correspond to examples of a "power supply destination" and a "power receiving unit" according to the present disclosure.

[0032] The electric vehicle power supply unit (EVSE) 301 provides alternating current for charging the energy storage device 303b. The EVSE 301 includes an alternating current output 301a (AC output). The AC plug 201 can be connected to the AC output 301a of the EVSE 301. In a connected state, the alternating current output by the AC output 301a is fed into the AC plug 201. The EVSE 301 can be a non-public EVSE (e.g., a home EVSE) that can only be used by a specific user. In the present embodiment, the EVSE 301 and the AC output 301a correspond to examples of a "power supply unit" and an "output unit," respectively, according to the present disclosure. The EVSE 301 corresponds to an example of a "first electric vehicle power supply unit" according to the present disclosure.

[0033] The control unit 150 controls the AC / DC conversion circuit 110. The AC / DC conversion circuit 110 converts the alternating current supplied by the AC terminal 101A into direct current and outputs the direct current to the DC terminal 103A. The AC / DC conversion circuit 110 according to the present embodiment corresponds to an example of a "power conversion circuit" according to the present disclosure. A circuit configuration in the housing 100A is described in detail below.

[0034] Power lines PL1a and PL1b are connected to the first end of the AC / DC conversion circuit 110, and power lines PL2a and PL2b are connected to the second end of the AC / DC conversion circuit 110. During charging, alternating current is fed into the first end of the AC / DC conversion circuit 110, and direct current is output from the second end of the AC / DC conversion circuit 110.

[0035] Fig. Figure 3 shows an example of a circuit configuration for the AC / DC conversion circuit 110. As in Fig. 3 and Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the AC / DC conversion circuit 110 comprises a power factor correction (PFC) circuit 111, an isolation circuit 112 and a rectifier circuit 113.

[0036] The PFC circuit 111 comprises a rectifier circuit 111a and an inverter 111b. The rectifier circuit 111a rectifies and amplifies the supplied alternating current. Specifically, the rectifier circuit 111a includes two sets of upper and lower arms, two inductors, and a smoothing capacitor. In each set of upper and lower arms, the upper arm includes a diode and the lower arm includes a switching element. The switching element of the lower arm is controlled by the control device 150. Each switching element contained in the rectifier circuit 111a is controlled by the control device 150, thus making the rectifier circuit 111a function as a gain chopper circuit.

[0037] The inverter 111b is a full bridge circuit with four switching elements. Each switching element is controlled by the control unit 150. Each switching element of the inverter 111b is controlled by the control unit 150, thereby converting the direct current fed into the inverter 111b from the rectifier circuit 111a into high-frequency alternating current.

[0038] The isolation circuit 112 is an isolation transformer with coils 112a and 112b. The rectifier circuit 113 is connected to coil 112a via an electrical conductor, and the PFC circuit 111 is connected to coil 112b via an electrical conductor. Coils 112a and 112b are electrically isolated from each other. The isolation circuit 112 amplifies an AC voltage applied to coil 112b and outputs the amplified voltage to coil 112a.

[0039] The rectifier circuit 113 is a diode bridge circuit with four diodes. The rectifier circuit 113 converts the alternating current supplied by the coil 112a of the isolation circuit 112 into direct current.

[0040] With the configuration described above, the AC / DC conversion circuit 110 performs an AC / DC conversion (conversion of alternating current to direct current) of the alternating current supplied by the AC plug 201 (see Fig. 2) is fed into power lines PL1a and PL1b, and supplies direct current to power lines PL2a and PL2b. In particular, the rectifier circuit 111a rectifies and amplifies the alternating current fed into power lines PL1a and PL1b and supplies direct current to the inverter 111b, and the inverter 111b converts the direct current received from the rectifier circuit 111a into high-frequency alternating current. The isolation circuit 112 transmits the output (alternating current) of the inverter 111b to the rectifier circuit 113, and the rectifier circuit 113 rectifies the alternating current received from the isolation circuit 112 and supplies the rectified current to power lines PL2a and PL2b.

[0041] The configuration of the AC / DC conversion circuit 110 is not based on the one in Fig. The configuration shown in Figure 3 is limited. The AC / DC conversion circuit 110, for example, can be a rectifier circuit that does not have an isolation circuit. To acquire information that can be used for control by the control unit 150, various sensors (e.g., a current sensor and a voltage sensor) can be placed at suitable positions in the circuit shown in Figure 3. Fig. The circuit shown in section 3 is provided for.

[0042] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the voltage sensor 121 detects a voltage between the power lines PL1a and PL1b. The voltage between PL1a and PL1b corresponds to an input voltage of the AC / DC conversion circuit 110. The result of the detection by the voltage sensor 121 is output to the control unit 150. Based on the output of the voltage sensor 121, the control unit 150 determines whether the AC connector 201 is connected or not. When AC current is supplied to the AC / DC conversion circuit 110, the control unit 150 determines that the AC connector 201 is connected to the AC output 301a. However, a method for determining whether the AC connector 201 is connected or not is not limited to the voltage sensor 121.

[0043] A detection circuit 122 detects whether the DC connector 203 is connected or not by measuring a change in electrical resistance when the DC connector 203 is connected to the DC input 303a. The detection result from the detection circuit 122 is output to the control unit 150. However, a method for detecting whether the DC connector 203 is connected or not is not limited to the detection circuit 122. Whether the DC connector 203 is connected or not can be detected by a signal transmitted from the vehicle 303 to the control unit 150 when the DC connector 203 is connected to the DC input 303a. Alternatively, a connection sensor (not shown) provided in the DC connector 203 can detect whether the DC connector 203 is connected or not.

[0044] The AC terminal 101A and the DC terminal 103A each have a wire hole. Power lines PL1a and PL1b extend from the AC / DC conversion circuit 110, located inside housing 100A, through the AC terminal 101A (the wire hole) and within cable 201a to the AC connector 201, located outside housing 100A. Power lines PL2a and PL2b extend from the AC / DC conversion circuit 110, located inside housing 100A, through the DC terminal 103A (the wire hole) and within cable 203a to the DC connector 203 outside housing 100A. A signal line (not shown) between the control unit 150 and the vehicle 303 also runs through the DC terminal 103A (the wire hole).

[0045] The control unit 150 comprises a processor 151, a random access memory (RAM) 152, a storage device 153, and a communication interface (I / F) 154. The processor 151 can be a central processing unit (CPU). The RAM 152 functions as working memory, temporarily storing the data processed by the processor 151. The storage device 153 can store information. The storage device 153 includes, for example, read-only memory (ROM) and rewritable non-volatile memory. The communication interface 154 comprises various communication interfaces through which the control unit 150 can communicate with the vehicle 303. In addition to a program, information (e.g., a map, a mathematical equation, and various parameters) used by the program is stored in the storage device 153.In the present embodiment, the processor 151 executes the program stored in the storage device 153, thereby performing various types of control in the control unit 150.

[0046] Although in Fig. Not shown in Figure 2, housing 100A contains a power source circuit for the control unit 150. This power source circuit generates the drive power for the control unit 150 (i.e., the power required to operate the control unit 150) using current supplied by a designated power source and delivers this drive power to the control unit 150. The power source circuit can generate the drive power for the control unit 150 using a power source (e.g., a capacitor or a secondary battery) within housing 100A. Alternatively, the power source circuit can generate the drive power for the control unit 150 using the alternating current supplied to the AC terminal 101A. The power source circuit can be connected to power lines PL1a and PL1b.

[0047] As in the Fig. 1 and Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the light emitter 210 of the start button 203b of the DC connector 203 is controlled by the control unit 150. When the start button 203b is pressed by the user, it instructs the control unit 150 to control the AC / DC conversion circuit 110 so that the DC connector 203 outputs direct current. The detector 203c detects whether the start button 203b is pressed or not. When the start button 203b is pressed, a charging start signal is transmitted from the detector 203c to the control unit 150. The charging start signal corresponds to the instruction to the control unit 150 described above. When the control unit 150 receives the charging start signal, it controls the AC / DC conversion circuit 110 as instructed to cause the DC connector 203 to output direct current. The user operates the control panel 203d. Charging conditions can be set via the control panel 203d. The display 203e shows information about the charging process (e.g.,Charging power and charging time).

[0048] The user can start the power supply (DC current supply) to the vehicle 303 by connecting the AC plug 201 of the 10A charger to the AC output 301a of the EVSE 301, then connecting the DC connector 203 of the 10A charger to the DC input 303a of the vehicle 303, and then pressing the start button 203b provided on the DC connector 203. Since the user will likely be holding the DC connector 203 and connecting it to the DC input 303a, it is easy for the user to press the start button 203b after connecting the DC connector 203. The user can perform the connection of the DC connector 203 and the activation of the start button 203b as a single, continuous process. Therefore, the user-friendliness at the start of the charging process can be improved with the 10A charger, which is configured as described above.

[0049] In the 10A charger, the DC connector 203 is equipped with a start button 203b. Therefore, the user could accidentally activate the start button 203b if they are holding the DC connector 203 and connecting it to the DC input 303a of the vehicle 303. Outputting DC current to the DC connector 203 when it is not connected to the DC input 303a is undesirable, as this can lead to wasteful power consumption or malfunctions. Therefore, in the 10A charger according to the present embodiment, the start button 203b is deactivated when at least one of the AC plugs 201 and the DC connector 203 is not connected.

[0050] The locking mechanism 220, located inside the DC connector 203, switches the start button 203b between a locked state and an unlocked state. The locked state restricts the user's ability to operate the start button 203b, while the unlocked state allows the user to operate it. The locking mechanism 220 is controlled by the control unit 150. In a state where no instruction is received from the control unit 150 (e.g., a non-conductive state), the locking mechanism 220 places the start button 203b in the locked state. If at least one of the AC plug 201 and / or the DC connector 203 is disconnected, the locking mechanism 220 places the start button 203b in the locked state, thereby disabling the start button 203b.

[0051] An example of the locking mechanism 220 is shown below using the Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 described.

[0052] Fig. Figure 4 shows the locking mechanism 220 in the locked state. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the locking mechanism 220 comprises a limiting element 221 and an electromagnetic actuator 222 that drives the limiting element 221. The actuator 222 is controlled by the control unit 150. The control unit 150 controls the actuator 222 to move the limiting element 221 to a position that restricts the movement of the start button 203b, thereby placing the start button 203b in the locked state. If at least one of the AC connector 201 and the DC connector 203 is not connected, the control unit 150 places the start button 203b in the locked state. When the start button 203b enters the locked state, movement of the start button 203b in any inward direction is restricted by the limiting element 221. Therefore, the user cannot press the start button 203b when the device is locked.When the start button 203b is in the locked state, the detector 203c does not detect the activation of the start button 203b, and therefore the charging start signal is not transmitted from the detector 203c to the control unit 150. When the start button 203b is in the locked state, the control unit 150 controls the light emitter 210 to illuminate the start button 203b.

[0053] Fig. Figure 5 shows the locking mechanism 220 in the unlocked state. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the control unit 150 controls the actuator 222 to move the restrictor 221 to a position where the movement of the start button 203b is not restricted, thus bringing the start button 203b into the unlocked state. When both the AC connector 201 and the DC connector 203 are connected, the control unit 150 brings the start button 203b into the unlocked state. When the user presses the start button 203b in the unlocked state, the actuation of the start button 203b is detected by the detector 203c, and the charging start signal is transmitted from the detector 203c to the control unit 150. When the start button 203b is in the unlocked state, the control unit 150 controls the light emitter 210 to illuminate the start button 203b.

[0054] Fig. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing a process related to the start of the charging process. For example, the process shown in this flowchart is started when the control unit 150 starts. The control unit 150 can start when the AC plug 201 is connected to the AC output 301a. Alternatively, the control unit 150 can be started when a (not shown) power switch on the charger 10A is turned on. The power switch on the charger 10A may be located on the housing 100A or within the control panel 203d. If a Fig. When the series of processes shown in Figure 6 is started, the start button 203b is in the locked state (i.e., in the state where pressing is restricted) (see Figure 6). Fig. 4).

[0055] As in Fig. 6 together with Fig. 1 and Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the 10A charger waits in step 11 (hereinafter referred to simply as "S") until both the AC connector 201 and the DC connector 203 are connected. In S11, the 10A charger determines whether both the AC connector 201 and the DC connector 203 are connected or not. If the AC connector 201 is connected to the AC output 301a and the DC connector 203 is connected to the DC input 303a, S11 determines YES.

[0056] If S11 determines YES, the control unit 150 controls the locking mechanism 220 to bring the start button 203b in S12 into the unlocked state (see Fig. 5). Furthermore, the control unit 150 in S13 controls the light emitter 210 to illuminate the start button 203b.

[0057] Fig. Figure 7 shows the DC connector 203 before the connection. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 7, the start button 203b in the DC connector 203 is in the off state before the connection. Although in Fig. Not shown in figure 7, the AC plug 201 is connected to the AC output 301a. Fig. 8 shows a state in which the in Fig. The DC connector 203 shown is connected to the DC input 303a. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, the start button 203b illuminates when the DC connector 203 is connected to the DC input 303a. When the DC connector 203 is connected to the DC input 303a, a lamp 303c provided at the DC input 303a can illuminate. However, the lamp 303c is controlled by an electronic control unit (ECU) of the vehicle 303, so the response time of the lamp 303c tends to be slower than that of the start button 203b (of the light emitter 210).

[0058] As in Fig. 6 together with Fig. 1 and Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the control unit 150 determines in S14 whether the start button 203b has been pressed by the user. The control unit 150 makes this determination in S14 based on the presence or absence of the charging start signal. Receiving the charging start signal from detector 203c by the control unit 150 means that the start button 203b has been pressed by the user (YES in S14). Not receiving the charging start signal by the control unit 150 means that the start button 203b has not been pressed (NO in S14). During any period in which S14 is determined to be NO, S11 to S14 are repeated.

[0059] If S14 is set to YES, the control unit 150 controls the AC / DC conversion circuit 110 to cause the DC connector 203 in S15 to output direct current. As a result, the charging process of the vehicle 303's energy storage device 303b is initiated. Specifically, the AC / DC conversion circuit 110 converts the alternating current fed into the AC connector 201 by the EVSE 301 into direct current and outputs the direct current to the DC connector 203. The direct current is then supplied from the DC connector 203 to the vehicle 303's DC input 303a, thereby charging the energy storage device 303b.

[0060] When the charging process is started by processing in S15, the process ends in Fig. The process sequence shown in Figure 6 illustrates this. Although details of the charging control are not specified, the alternating current supplied by the AC connector 201 is converted to direct current by the AC / DC converter circuit 110, and the direct current is output by the DC connector 203, thereby charging the energy storage device 303b. The control unit 150 controls the AC / DC converter circuit 110 to control the output power of the DC connector 203 (and thus the charging power of the energy storage device 303b). The control unit 150 can control the charging power in response to a request from the vehicle 303. The charging process of the energy storage device 303b continues until a prescribed end condition is met. When the end condition is met, the charging process is terminated. The end condition may be met, for example, when the energy storage device 303b is fully charged.The end condition can be met if the EVSE 301 and the vehicle 303 are no longer connected during the charging process. The end condition can also be met if an abnormality occurs in the vehicle 303 or in the EVSE 301 during the charging process.

[0061] As described above, in the 10A charger according to the present embodiment, the start button 203b is deactivated if at least one of the AC plug 201 and the DC connector 203 is not connected. In particular, if at least one of the AC plug 201 and the DC connector 203 is not connected, the control unit 150 controls the AC / DC conversion circuit 110 so that the DC current is not output to the DC connector 203, regardless of whether the start button 203b is pressed or not (see Fig. 6) If at least one of the AC connector 201 and the DC connector 203 is not connected, the AC / DC conversion circuit 110 interrupts the current, thus disabling the start button 203b. Furthermore, the start button 203b is also disabled if the locking mechanism 220 places the start button 203b in the locked position (see Fig. 4) With the configuration described above, the output of DC current to DC connector 203 is suppressed when DC connector 203 is not connected to DC input 303a.

[0062] The structure of the start button 203b is not based on the one in the Fig. 1, Fig. 4 and Fig. The structure shown in Figure 5 is limited. If at least one of the AC connector 201 and the DC connector 203 is not connected, the start button 203b may be locked in a non-pressable state. If both the AC connector 201 and the DC connector 203 are connected, the start button 203b may be flipped up into a pressable state.

[0063] Although the start button 203b is deactivated in the embodiment described above by both the software of the control unit 150 and the mechanical locking mechanism 220, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The start button 203b can also be deactivated solely by the software of the control unit 150 or by the mechanical locking mechanism 220. Alternatively, the start button 203b can also be deactivated by any other means.

[0064] Fig. Figure 9 shows a modification of the means for disabling the Start button 203b. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, this circuit features switches 231 and 232 connected in series. Switches 231 and 232 are connected to a single signal line for the charging start signal, and the charging start signal is input to the control unit 150 when both switches 231 and 232 are in the closed position. Switch 231 operates in conjunction with the start button 203b. When the start button 203b is not pressed, switch 231 is in the open (OFF) position. When the start button 203b is pressed, switch 231 is in the closed (ON) position. Switch 232 is normally off and is in the open position in its non-conductive state. Switch 232 is controlled by the control unit 150. If at least one of the AC connector 201 and the DC connector 203 is not connected, the control unit 150 puts the switch 232 into the open state (OFF state).When both the AC connector 201 and the DC connector 203 are connected, the control unit 150 puts the switch 232 into the closed (ON) position. When the switch 232 is in the open position, the charging start signal is not sent to the control unit 150, regardless of whether the start button 203b is pressed or not. Therefore, when the switch 232 is in the open position, the start button 203b is deactivated.

[0065] The 203d control panel can accept the user's setting for timed charging or timer charging. The 10A charger (portable charger) can be configured so that the 203b start button is disabled when the user has set timed charging.

[0066] Fig. Figure 10 shows an example of a screen for setting timed loading. As in Fig. 10 together with Fig. 1 and Fig. As shown in Figure 2, a screen displayed on the screen 203e is switched when the user operates the control panel 203d. The user can, for example, switch the screen from a start screen (not shown) to the screen shown in Figure 2. Fig. Switch to the screen shown in step 10 to set the timed charging.

[0067] A title (M11), a charging schedule (M12), and the current time (M13) are displayed on the screen for setting scheduled charging. The control panel 203d includes a home button (M20), cursor buttons (M31 and M32), an enter button (M41), and an cancel button (M42). Each button included in the control panel 203d can be a physical button or a virtual button displayed on a touch panel.

[0068] The cursor keys M31 and M32 are used to enter the charging schedule M12. The Enter key M41 is used to lock the charging schedule M12. The Cancel key M42 is used to unlock it. The user can select an input position with the cursor key M31, modify the input content (the charging schedule M12) with the cursor key M32, and lock the input content with the Enter key M41. When the Enter key M41 is pressed, the timed charging in the controller 150 is set according to the charging schedule M12 (i.e., the start and end times entered by the user). If the Cancel key M42 is subsequently pressed, the set timed charging is canceled. When the Home key M20 is pressed, the screen displayed on the 203e display switches to the Home screen and the timed charging setting is terminated.

[0069] Although in the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 10, where the start and end times of timed charging are set, the method for setting timed charging is not limited to the procedure described above. For example, a time interval can be set between connecting the AC connector 201 and the DC connector 203 and the start of timed charging. Timed charging can be terminated when the state of charge (SOC) of the energy storage device 303b reaches a prescribed SOC value (e.g., an SOC value indicating a full charge). The control panel 203d can be located on the housing 100A.

[0070] Fig. 11 is a flowchart that represents a first modification of the one in Fig. The process shown in section 6 illustrates this. In the process shown in Fig. In the process shown in section 11, S21 and S22 become the one shown in Fig. Process 6 shown has been added. S21 and S22 are described below.

[0071] As in Fig. 11 together with Fig. 1 and Fig. As shown in Figure 2, S21 is located between S11 and S12. In S21, the control unit 150 determines whether the user has enabled timed charging or set the timer. If timed charging is not enabled (NO in S21), the process continues with S12. If timed charging is enabled (YES in S21), the control unit 150 determines in S22 whether the start time for timed charging has arrived. If the start time for timed charging has not yet arrived (NO in S22), the process returns to S11, and S11, S21, and S22 are repeated until the start time arrives. When the start time for timed charging has arrived (YES in S22), the control unit 150 controls the AC / DC conversion circuit 110 to cause the DC connector 203 in S15 to output DC current. As a result, the charging process of the power storage device 303b of the vehicle 303 is started.

[0072] In the portable charger according to the first modification described above (see Fig. 11) The charging process is started regardless of whether the start button 203b is pressed or not, if timed charging is set in the control unit 150 and the start time of timed charging occurs, with both the AC connector 201 and the DC connector 203 connected. In contrast, the charging process is started by pressing the start button 203b, with both the AC connector 201 and the DC connector 203 connected, if timed charging is not set in the control unit 150. According to such a portable charger, the start of charging caused by pressing the start button 203b and the start of charging triggered by the arrival of the start time of timed charging can be used depending on the situation.Since the control panel 203d is located on the DC connector 203, the user can furthermore perform the connection of the DC connector 203 and the setting of the timed charging as a series of processes. In the first modification described above, the control panel 203d corresponds to an example of an "input device" according to the present disclosure.

[0073] Fig. 12 is a flowchart that represents a second modification of the one in Fig. The process shown in Figure 6 illustrates this. A portable charger according to the second modification is also essentially configured as shown in Figure 6. Fig. 2. However, the portable charger according to the second modification does not include a locking mechanism 220, and therefore the start button 203b is only deactivated by the software of the control unit 150. In the Fig. The processes shown in 12 become S31 to S33 in the one shown. Fig. Process 6 shown added, and S12 and S13 ( Fig. Sections 6) are omitted. Pages 31 to 33 are described below.

[0074] As in Fig. 12 together with Fig. 1 and Fig. As shown in Figure 2, S31 is located between S14 and S15. In S31, the control unit 150 performs the control for the first presentation. The control unit 150 controls the light emitter 210 to cause, for example, the start button 203b to light up. In the second modification, the lighting of the start button 203b (which has the light emitter 210) corresponds to the first presentation.

[0075] If at least one of the AC connector 201 and the DC connector 203 is not connected (NO in S11), the process continues with S32. Similar to S14, the control unit 150 determines in S32 whether the start button 203b has been pressed by the user. During any period in which S32 is determined to be NO, S11 and S32 are repeated.

[0076] If S32 is set to YES, control unit 150 performs the control for the second presentation in S33. Control unit 150 controls light emitter 210 to keep the start button 203b in a light-off state, for example. In the second modification, keeping the start button 203b (which has light emitter 210) in the light-off state corresponds to the second presentation.

[0077] In the portable charger according to the second modification described above (see Fig. 12) The start button 203b provides the first presentation when the start button 203b is pressed by the user with both the AC plug 201 and the DC connector 203 connected. When the start button 203b is pressed by the user with at least one of the AC plug 201 and the DC connector 203 disconnected, the start button 203b provides the second presentation, which differs from the first presentation. In the second modification described above, the control unit 150 toggles the illumination state of the start button 203b between the first and second presentations. With such a portable charger, the user can more easily determine the connection state of the AC plug 201 and the DC connector 203 when the start button 203b is pressed.In the second modification described above, the control unit 150 and the start button 203b (which has the light emitter 210) correspond to examples of the “presentation device” according to the present disclosure.

[0078] The first presentation (S31) and the second presentation (S33) in the Fig. The processes shown above are not limited to the lighting up and going out of the start button 203b as described above. For example, the start button 203b may light up in the first presentation and blink in the second presentation.

[0079] Alternatively, control unit 150 can cause the start button 203b to light up in different colors during the first and second presentations. The start button 203b can light up green during the first presentation and red during the second.

[0080] The control unit 150 can cause the display 203e to show different messages in the first and second presentations. In such a configuration, the control unit 150 and the display 203e correspond to examples of a "presentation device" according to the present disclosure. The display 203e can be provided on the housing 100A.

[0081] Fig. 13 shows a modification of the first presentation. As in Fig. As shown in section 13, the control unit 150 can be seen in the first presentation (S31 in Fig. 12) cause the display 203e to show a loading start screen. On the in Fig. The loading start screen shown in section 13 displays a title (M11A), a message (M12A), and the current time (M13A). Message M12A indicates that loading has begun.

[0082] Fig. 14 shows a modification of the second presentation. As in Fig. As shown in section 14, the control unit 150 can be found in the second presentation (S33 in Fig. 12) cause the display 203e to show a connection error screen. On the in Fig. The connection error screen shown in step 14 displays a title M11B, a message M12B, and the current time M13B. Message M12B prompts the user to connect the portable charger (charging cable).

[0083] The control unit 150 can control a loudspeaker (not shown) to emit different sounds (including voices) in the first and second presentations. The loudspeaker can emit no sounds in the first presentation and an error sound (a sound indicating an abnormality) in the second presentation. The loudspeaker can emit a first sound in the first presentation and a second sound, different from the first, in the second presentation. The loudspeaker can emit a voice message such as "Start loading" in the first presentation and a voice message such as "Connect cables" in the second presentation. In these configurations, the control unit 150 and the loudspeaker (not shown) correspond to examples of the "presentation device" according to the present disclosure.

[0084] The AC input unit of the portable charger, which receives the AC power, is not limited to an AC plug. The AC input unit of the portable charger can be an AC input that connects to an AC connector of an EVSE. Alternatively, the AC input unit of the portable charger can also be an AC connector that connects to an AC input of an EVSE.

[0085] Fig. 15 shows a modification of the in Fig. 2 portable chargers shown. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 15, a charger 10B (portable charger) has an AC input 202, a cable 202a and an AC connector 102A instead of the AC plug 201, cable 201a and AC connector 101A ( Fig. 2) The AC input 202 and the AC terminal 102A are connected to each other by the cable 202a. An electrical wire in the cable 202a is connected via the AC terminal 102A (wire hole) to a circuit in the housing 100B. The AC input 202 can be connected to an AC connector 302a of an AC cable 302b of an EVSE 302. When connected, the alternating current supplied by the EVSE 302 to the AC input 202 is fed into the AC / DC conversion circuit 110 in the housing 100B. The EVSE 302 has a built-in control circuit 302c that generates a control pilot signal (CPLT signal). The control unit 150 can receive the CPLT signal. The control unit 150 determines the voltage sensor 121 ( Fig. 2) whether the AC input 202 is connected or not. The EVSE 302 can be a public EVSE that can be used by many unspecified users. In the present modification, the EVSE 302, the AC connector 302a, and the AC input 202 correspond to examples of the "power supply device," "output unit," and "AC input unit" according to the present disclosure. The EVSE 302 corresponds to an example of a "second electric vehicle power supply device" according to the present disclosure.

[0086] The AC connection 101A ( Fig. 2) can be a connector that allows the AC plug 201 to be attached to or detached from the housing 100A. The housing 100A can be connected to several types of AC plugs with different specifications via the AC connector 101A (connector). The AC connector 102A ( Fig. 15) can be a connector that allows the AC input 202 to be connected to and disconnected from the housing 100B. The housing 100B can be connected via the AC connector 102A to a variety of types of AC inputs, which differ in their specifications (e.g., AC inputs of type 1 (single-phase / three-phase), type 2 (single-phase / three-phase) and GB / T).

[0087] The DC connection 103A ( Fig. 2 and Fig. 15) can be a connector that allows the DC connector 203 to be attached to or detached from the housing 100A or 100B. The housing 100A, 100B can be connected via the DC connector 103A to several types of DC plugs that differ in their specifications (e.g., DC connectors from CHAdeMO, Combined Charging System (CCS), GB / T and Tesla).

[0088] In the portable charger, the AC / DC conversion circuit 110 (power conversion circuit) can be housed in a housing of the DC connector 203. Fig. 16 shows a modification of the in Fig. 1 portable charger shown. Fig. Figure 17 shows an internal structure of the in Fig. 16 portable chargers shown.

[0089] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 16, a charger 10C (portable charger) has an AC plug 201 and a DC connector 100C. The cable 201a, which extends to the AC plug 201, is directly connected to the DC connector 100C. The housing 100A ( Fig. 1) is not provided between the AC plug 201 and the DC connector 100C.

[0090] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 17, cable 201a has a sheath (outer casing) SH. A power line and a ground line of the AC plug 201 are connected to the DC connector 100C through the sheath SH. The AC / DC conversion circuit 110, the voltage sensor 121, the sensing circuit 122, the power source circuit 130, and the control unit 150 are housed in a casing of the DC connector 100C. The power source circuit 130 generates the drive power for the control unit 150 using alternating current supplied by the AC plug 201. The DC connector 100C is equipped with a start button 203b. When the start button 203b is pressed, a signal indicating that the start button 203b has been pressed is transmitted from the start button 203b to the control unit 150.

[0091] The control unit 150 can switch between several types of charging modes. For example, the control unit 150 can switch between a first charging mode and a second charging mode. The first charging mode is a mode in which charging is initiated when the start button 203b of the DC connector 100C is pressed in a wired connection state (i.e., a state in which the power supply device and the power supply destination are connected). The second charging mode is a mode in which charging is initiated as soon as the power supply device and the power supply destination are connected. The control unit 150 can receive user input and execute either the first or second charging mode accordingly. The user can input the charging mode into the control unit 150 via the control panel 203d.

[0092] Although the start switch in the embodiment and modifications described above is shown as a push button, the type of start switch can be changed as needed. The start switch can be a lever type or a slide type. Furthermore, the circuit configuration in the housing of the portable charger is not limited to those shown in the Fig. 2 and Fig. The circuit configurations shown are limited to 15. A switch and / or a sensor can be added as needed.

[0093] The vehicle with the energy storage device is not limited to a battery electric vehicle (BEV) and can, for example, be a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). Furthermore, the power supply destination (i.e., the destination that receives power from the power supply device via the portable charger) can be a means of transport other than a vehicle (e.g., a ship or an aircraft), an unmanned mobile body (e.g., an automated guided vehicle (AGV), an agricultural machine, a mobile robot, or a drone), a mobile device (e.g., a smartphone or a wearable device), or a building (e.g., a house or a factory).

[0094] Although the embodiment of the present disclosure has been described, it should be understood that the embodiment disclosed herein is in every respect exemplary and not limiting. The scope of the present disclosure is defined by the terms of the claims and is intended to include all modifications within the scope and meaning that correspond to the terms of the claims.

Claims

[1] Portable charger (10A, 10B) which features: an AC input unit (201, 202) that can be connected to an output unit (301a, 302a) of a power supply unit (301, 302), wherein the AC input unit (201, 202) receives AC current from the output unit (301a, 302a) of the power supply unit (301, 302); a DC output unit (203) that can be connected to a current receiving unit (303a) of a power supply destination (303), wherein the DC output unit (203) outputs DC current to the current receiving unit (303a) of the power supply destination (303); a power conversion circuit (110) that converts the alternating current supplied by the AC input unit (201, 202) into direct current and outputs the direct current to the direct current output unit (203); and a control unit (150) that controls the power conversion circuit (110), wherein the DC output unit (203) has a start switch (203b), when the start switch (203b) is activated by a user, the start switch (203b) instructs the control unit to control the power conversion circuit (110) so that the DC output unit (203) outputs the DC current, and if at least one of the AC input unit (201, 202) and the DC output unit (203) is not connected, the start switch (203b) is deactivated, wherein the portable charger (10A, 10B) additionally features a presentation device (203e) which provides an initial presentation when the start switch (203b) is activated by the user, with both the AC input unit (201, 202) and the DC output unit (203) connected, and provides a second presentation that differs from the first presentation when the start switch (203b) is pressed by the user, wherein at least one of the AC input unit (201, 202) and the DC output unit (203) is not connected, wherein the start switch (203b) is illuminated, and the presentation device (203e) changes a lighting state of the start switch (203b) between the first presentation and the second presentation, characterized by , that the start switch (203b) has a light emitter (210) for illuminating the start switch (203b). [2] Portable charger (10A, 10B) according to claim 1, further comprising a locking mechanism (220) which switches the start switch (203b) between a locked state and an unlocked state, wherein the locked state is a state in which the actuation of the start switch (203b) by the user is restricted, and the unlocked state is a state in which the actuation of the start switch (203b) by the user is permitted, wherein when at least one of the AC input unit (201, 202) and the DC output unit (203) is not connected, the locking mechanism (220) brings the start switch (203b) into the locked state, thereby disabling the start switch (203b). [3] Portable charger (10A, 10B) according to one of claims 1 to 2, which additionally has an input device (203d) which accepts a setting of timed charging by the user, wherein when timed charging is set by the user, the start switch (203b) is deactivated. [4] Portable charger (10A, 10B) according to claim 3, wherein the input device (203d) is arranged on the DC output unit (203). [5] Portable charger (10A, 10B) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the power supply target (303) is a vehicle with a power storage device (303b), the power receiving unit (303a) is a DC input of the vehicle, and The DC output unit (203) is a DC connector that can be connected to the DC input. [6] Portable charger (10A) according to claim 5, wherein the power supply device (301) is a first electric vehicle power supply device with a socket outlet, the output unit (301a) is the socket of the first electric vehicle supply unit, and The AC input unit (201) is an AC plug that can be connected to the wall socket. [7] Portable charger (10B) according to claim 5, wherein the power supply device (302) is a second electric vehicle power supply device with a cable (302b), the output unit (302a) is a connector of the cable (302b) of the second electric vehicle power supply unit, and The AC input unit (202) is an AC input which can be connected to the connector of the cable (302b). [8] Portable charger (10A, 10B) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising: a housing (100A, 100B); a first cable (201a, 202a); and a second cable (203a), wherein the power conversion circuit (110) is built into the housing (100A, 100B), and the power conversion circuit (110) is connected to the AC input unit (201, 202) via the first cable (201a, 202a) and to the DC output unit (203) via the second cable (203a).

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