Charging cable with features to display information

Abstract

An energy transfer system includes a charging cable configured to electrically connect a battery system to a power source or energy storage system, wherein the battery system is configured to supply power to an electric motor of a vehicle. The energy transfer system also includes a display system comprising at least one light source attached to the charging cable; and a controller configured to control the display system to generate a visual indicator on the charging cable, the visual indicator showing a state related to the energy transfer operation.

Description

INTRODUCTION

[0001] The disclosure of the subject matter relates to energy or power transmission and in particular to systems and methods for displaying information via a charging cable or charging line.

[0002] Vehicles, including both gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles, as well as electric and hybrid electric vehicles, incorporate battery storage for purposes such as powering electric motors, electronics, and other vehicle subsystems. Battery assemblies can be charged using dedicated charging stations and other power sources, such as homes and buildings connected to an energy grid. Additionally, some vehicles may have the ability to transfer power to external locations, such as by supplying power to battery assemblies of other vehicles and / or to a grid. SUMMARY

[0003] According to an exemplary embodiment, a power transfer system includes a charging cable configured to electrically connect a battery system to a power source or energy storage system, wherein the battery system is configured to power an electric motor of a vehicle. The power transfer system also includes a display system including at least one light source attached to the charging cable and a controller configured to control the display system to generate a visual indicator on the charging cable, wherein the visual indicator indicates a condition related to the power transfer operation.

[0004] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, the at least one light source includes a plurality of light sources arranged along a length of the charging cable.

[0005] In addition to one or more of the features described here, the visual indicator is configured to alert a person to the location of the charging cable.

[0006] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, the controller is configured to generate the visual indicator based on detecting that the person is in proximity to the charging cable.

[0007] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, the controller is configured to control the display system to generate a light pattern indicative of the condition, wherein the condition includes at least one of a charge state, a discharge state, and an ambient state.

[0008] In addition to one or more of the features described here, the light pattern is selected based on a charge level.

[0009] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, the light pattern is a moving pattern indicating the direction of energy flow, wherein the light pattern moves in a first direction along the charging cable away from the battery system based on the condition being the state of discharge, and the light pattern moves in a second direction along the charging cable toward the battery system based on the condition being the state of charge.

[0010] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, the light pattern is configured to facilitate visual detection of the charging cable when the environmental condition causes the charging cable to be hidden from view.

[0011] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, the controller is configured to detect whether at least one of the vehicle and a person is in proximity to the energy source or the energy storage system, wherein the visual indicator is configured to remind the person to connect the charging cable based on the charging cable being disconnected.

[0012] According to another exemplary embodiment, a method includes monitoring a power transfer system, the power transfer system configured to perform at least one of transferring charge from a power source to a battery system and transferring charge from the battery system to an energy storage system, the power transfer system including a charging cable configured to electrically connect the battery system to one of the power source and the energy storage system, the battery system configured to power an electric motor of a vehicle. The method also includes detecting a condition related to a power transfer operation and, based on the detection, controlling at least one light source attached to the charging cable to generate a visual indicator on the charging cable, the visual indicator indicative of the condition.

[0013] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, the at least one light source includes a plurality of light sources arranged along a length of the charging cable.

[0014] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, the condition includes a person in proximity to the charging cable, wherein the visual indicator is configured to alert the person to a location of the charging cable.

[0015] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, the visual indicator includes a light pattern indicating the condition, the condition including at least one of a charge state, a discharge state, and an ambient state.

[0016] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, the light pattern is a moving pattern indicating a direction of energy flow, wherein the light pattern moves in a first direction along the charging cable away from the battery system based on the condition being the state of discharge, and the light pattern moves in a second direction along the charging cable toward the battery system based on the condition being the state of charge.

[0017] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, the condition includes at least one of a person or the vehicle located near the energy source or energy storage system, wherein the visual indicator is configured to remind the person to connect the charging cable based on the charging cable being disconnected.

[0018] According to yet another exemplary embodiment, a computer program product includes a computer-readable memory having computer-executable instructions stored therein, wherein the computer-executable instructions, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform operations. The operations include monitoring a power transfer system, the power transfer system configured to perform at least one of transferring charge from a power source to a battery system and transferring charge from the battery system to an energy storage system, the power transfer system including a charging cable configured to electrically connect the battery system to one of the power source and the energy storage system, the battery system configured to power an electric motor of a vehicle.The operations further include detecting a condition related to a power transfer operation and, based on the detection, controlling at least one light source attached to the charging cable to generate a visual indicator on the charging cable, the visual indicator indicating the condition.

[0019] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, the at least one light source includes a plurality of light sources arranged along a length of the charging cable.

[0020] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, the condition includes a person in proximity to the charging cable, wherein the visual indicator is configured to alert the person to a location of the charging cable.

[0021] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, the visual indicator includes a light pattern indicating the condition, the condition including at least one of a charge state, a discharge state, and an ambient state.

[0022] In addition to one or more of the features described herein, the light pattern is a moving pattern indicating a direction of energy flow, wherein the light pattern moves in a first direction along the charging cable away from the battery system based on the condition being the state of discharge, and the light pattern moves in a second direction along the charging cable toward the battery system based on the condition being the state of charge.

[0023] The above features and advantages and other features and advantages of the disclosure are readily apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Further features, advantages and details appear in the following detailed description only as examples, whereby the detailed description refers to the drawings; they show: Fig. 1 is a schematic plan view of a motor vehicle including a battery system and a charging system according to an exemplary embodiment; Fig. 2 illustrates the components of a power transmission system including a charging cable with a display system for visually conveying information, according to an exemplary embodiment; Fig. 3 illustrates a flow of inputs and outputs to and from a controller of a power transmission system, the controller configured to control a display system of a charging cable, according to an exemplary embodiment; Fig. 4 Examples of visual indicators (light patterns) that may be displayed on a charging cable, according to an exemplary embodiment; Fig. 5 is a flowchart illustrating aspects of a method for generating visual indicators on a charging cable, according to an exemplary embodiment; Fig. 6 is a flowchart illustrating aspects of a method for generating visual indicators on a charging cable, according to an exemplary embodiment; Fig. 7 is a flowchart illustrating aspects of a method for configuring visual indicators that may be displayed on a charging cable, according to an exemplary embodiment; and Fig. 8 a computer system according to an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The following description is merely exemplary and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, its application, or uses. It should be appreciated that corresponding reference characters indicate like or corresponding parts and features throughout the drawings.

[0026] In accordance with one or more exemplary embodiments, methods, apparatus, and systems are provided for presenting or displaying information via a charging cable, for example, during a power transfer operation. A power transfer operation may include receiving power to charge a battery system from an external power source or providing power (discharging) to an external energy storage system.

[0027] One embodiment of a power transfer system includes a charging cable configured to connect a battery system (e.g., a battery pack of an electric vehicle (EV) or a hybrid vehicle) to an external power source (e.g., a power grid or a charging station) and / or an external energy storage system (e.g., a power grid or a receiving vehicle battery system). The charging cable includes a display system having one or more light sources attached to the charging cable and configurable to display various types of information. According to one embodiment, the one or more light sources include an array of light sources (e.g., an array or strip of light-emitting diodes (LEDs)).The light sources in the array may be spaced along the charging cable according to a selected distance or may be arranged close enough together so that at least part of a light pattern appears continuous.

[0028] The system includes a processor or controller (or a combination of multiple processors or controllers) configured to generate the visual indicators in the form of light patterns displayed on the charging cable. A different visual indicator can be configured for each of several different conditions. For example, the light patterns can be configured to indicate (e.g., by generating a moving light pattern) that a vehicle battery system is charging or discharging and / or to indicate a charging type (e.g., EV Charging Level 1, EV Charging Level 2, Direct Current Fast Charging (DC Fast Charging), etc.). Additionally, the light patterns can be generated based on environmental conditions (e.g., inclement weather, poor visibility, darkness, etc.). Different light patterns can be used for different conditions.

[0029] The embodiments described herein offer numerous advantages and technical effects. For example, the embodiments improve charging and discharging operations by providing intuitive and easy-to-see indicators.

[0030] Such improvements include the avoidance of trip hazards and improved notifications to users regarding various charging and environmental conditions. The embodiments enable a user or person to quickly respond to changes in conditions or situations that may be adverse (e.g., errors, interruptions, etc.).

[0031] The embodiments are not limited to use with any specific vehicle, device, or system that utilizes battery assemblies and may be applicable to various contexts. For example, the embodiments may be used with passenger cars, trucks, aircraft, construction equipment, agricultural equipment, automated factory equipment, and / or any other device or system that may utilize high-voltage battery packs or other battery assemblies.

[0032] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a motor vehicle 10 including a vehicle body 12 that at least partially defines a passenger compartment 14. The vehicle body 12 also supports various vehicle subsystems, including a propulsion system 16 and other subsystems to support the functions of the propulsion system 16 and other vehicle components, such as a braking subsystem, a suspension system, a steering subsystem, and, if the vehicle is a hybrid electric vehicle, a fuel injection subsystem, an exhaust subsystem, and others.

[0033] The vehicle 10 may be an electric vehicle (EV), a hybrid vehicle, or any other vehicle. According to one embodiment, the vehicle 10 is an electric vehicle that includes one or more motors and one or more propulsion systems. The propulsion system 16 is, for example, a multiple propulsion system that includes a first propulsion unit 20 and a second propulsion unit 30. The first propulsion unit 20 includes a first electric motor 22 and a first inverter 24, as well as other components, such as a cooling system 26. The second propulsion unit 30 includes a second electric motor 32 and a second inverter 34, and other components, such as a cooling system 26. B. a cooling system 36. The inverters 24 and 34 (e.g., the traction power inverter units or TPIMs) convert any direct current (DC) power from a high-voltage (HV) battery system 40 into multi-phase (e.g., two-phase, three-phase, six-phase, etc.) alternating current (AC) power to drive motors 22 and 32.

[0034] In the drive system 16, the drive unit 20 and the drive unit 30 are electrically connected to the battery system 40. The battery system 40 may be configured as a rechargeable energy storage system (RESS).

[0035] Battery system 40 includes one or more battery assemblies. Battery system 40 includes, for example, one or more high-voltage battery packs, such as a first battery pack 44 connected to inverter 24 and a second battery pack 46 connected to inverter 34. Battery pack 44 includes a plurality of battery modules 48, while battery pack 46 includes a plurality of battery modules 50. Each module 48, 50 includes a number of individual cells (not shown). According to one embodiment, battery packs 44 and 46 are independently chargeable and can be used to independently supply power for propulsion, power delivery, and / or charging.

[0036] The vehicle 10 also includes a charging system that can be used to charge the battery system 40 and / or to supply power from the battery system 40 to charge another energy storage system (e.g., vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and / or vehicle-to-everything (V2X) charging). The charging system includes one or more conversion devices for controlling aspects of charging and / or discharging. At least one conversion device provides, for example, AC to DC conversion and / or voltage control.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the charging system includes a charging controller 52, such as an on-board charging module (OBCM). The charging controller 52 includes a conversion device in the form of a charging device (charging circuit) that includes AC-to-DC conversion and DC-to-DC conversion devices. The charging controller 52 connects the battery system 40 to a charging port 54 for charging the vehicle battery systems and / or providing charge to external storage systems.

[0038] The vehicle 10 also includes a computer system 56 that includes one or more processing devices 58 and a user interface 60. The computer system 56 may, for example, communicate with the charging system controller to provide commands in response to user input. The various processing devices, modules, and units may communicate with each other via a communication device or system, such as a controller area network (CAN) bus or a transmission control protocol (TCP) bus.

[0039] The charging system, charging controller 52, computer system 56, and / or other processing components within vehicle 10 may be configured to communicate with various remote devices and systems, such as charging stations and other vehicles. Such communication may be implemented, for example, via a network 62 (e.g., cellular network, cloud, etc.) and / or via wireless communication. Vehicle 10 may communicate, for example, with one or more charging stations 64, a remote entity 66 (e.g., a workstation, a fleet management system, a computer, a server, a service provider, a technician, an engineer, etc.), and / or another vehicle 68.

[0040] A "battery system" may include a battery pack, a battery module, a battery cell, or a combination thereof. Examples of battery systems include battery system 40, battery pack 44, battery pack 46, and any combination thereof. A battery system may be any energy storage device, such as a receiving vehicle's battery system (during V2V charging) or any other suitable external energy storage.

[0041] Fig. Figure 2 illustrates one embodiment of a charging system including a charging cable with information display capabilities. According to this embodiment, the vehicle 10 is configured to be connected to a power source or energy storage system via a charging cable 70. The charging cable 70 includes one or more light sources arranged along a selected length of the charging cable. For example, the charging cable 70 includes multiple light sources 72.

[0042] Each light source 72 may be embedded within the charging cable 70 (e.g., within an outer insulating layer), attached to a jacket or layer of material surrounding a length of the charging cable 70, glued to a surface of the charging cable 70, or otherwise disposed at a fixed location relative to the charging cable 70. The light sources 72 may be discrete light sources, as shown, or may be a continuous light source (e.g., a light-emitting diode (LED) strip or an optical fiber). In general, a continuous light source is any configuration that produces light that is continuous (or at least appears continuous to a person) along any length.

[0043] The charging cable 70 may be a charging cable associated with the vehicle 10, a standalone charging cable, or a charging cable that is part of an external system. For example, the charging cable is part of a charging station 74 (e.g., a DC fast charging station or DCFC station), as shown in Fig. 2 is shown.

[0044] The charging station 74 may be a fixed charging station connected to a power grid (not shown) via a power transformer 76, or may otherwise include or be connected to a power source. The charging station 74 may be a mobile charging station that includes a set of battery packs for providing power to charge the vehicle 10.

[0045] The charging station 74 includes one or more charging ports 78, each of which is connected to a DC-to-DC converter 80. Charging operations may be performed by a charging station controller 82, a vehicle processor (e.g., an OBCM), an external electronic control unit (ECU) 84 of the charging station, or any combination thereof.

[0046] According to one embodiment, each light source 72 is an LED light source. The light sources 72 may be individually mounted, attached via an LED ribbon or lighting strip, or otherwise embedded in or attached to the charging cable 70. One or more other light sources may be used, such as fiber optic light sources that include one or more optical fibers (e.g., one or more end-emitting fibers that emit light from one end thereof, one or more edge-emitting optical fibers that emit light along a length thereof, etc.). It should be noted that any suitable type of light source capable of producing visible light may be used.

[0047] The light sources 72 are operated in a manner to produce a visual indicator. A "visual indicator" refers to any emission of visible light by the light sources 72 that conveys information to a person (or a device or system, such as a camera and / or a monitoring system). The visual indicator may be provided simply to alert a person to the location of the charging cable 70 (e.g., to prevent tripping) and / or may provide additional information. The information may be provided via an illumination pattern or "light pattern" that is recognizable as indicating a status or providing other information.

[0048] For example, all light sources 72 (or a selected subset) may be activated simply to provide illumination so that the location of the charging cable is easily identified. According to other examples, the light sources 72 are operated together to create a stationary or moving light pattern to indicate a charging mode, charging status, and / or other condition.

[0049] Charging station 74 may include various devices and hardware to facilitate generating indicators and displaying information. Examples include a global positioning system (GPS) device, a Wi-Fi receiver (e.g., to receive local weather information), an ambient light sensor, a key fob detector, an accelerometer or microphone, a camera or other imaging device, and others.

[0050] Fig. Figure 3 illustrates examples of the inputs and outputs that can be used by a processor to generate visual indicators. These examples are described in connection with, but are not limited to, the ECU 84.

[0051] As shown, the ECU 84 receives various inputs 90 that can be used to generate visual indicators. The inputs include, for example, a location 90a (e.g., from global positioning system (GPS) information), local weather conditions 90b, the amount of ambient light 90c (e.g., from time / day information and / or from an ambient light sensor), and an indication 90d that a vehicle is near the charging station 74 (e.g., from a key fob detector, a monitoring system, etc.). Other inputs include, for example, an indication 90e that a person is near the charging station 74. People can be detected, for example, by footstep detection via an accelerometer or microphone, by a camera, or by any other detection mechanism.

[0052] Other examples of the inputs include an indication 90f of the charge / discharge type (e.g., AC charging, DC fast charging, vehicle-to-vehicle discharging, etc.), a state of charge (SOC) of the vehicle battery when unplugged (indication 90g), and the SOC of the vehicle battery when the vehicle 10 is connected to the charging station 74 (indication 90h).

[0053] According to one embodiment, the inputs include customer or user preference information 90i. Such preferences may be provided via a mobile application on a user's smartphone, a user interface (e.g., a screen or touchscreen of a charging station), or any other suitable interface or input device. The customer preference inputs are used to customize the format of a visual indicator for a specific condition or charging status.

[0054] In response to the inputs, the ECU 84 provides control signals 92 to the light sources 74 or to a controller configured to operate the light sources. The control signals 92 include, for example, an on / off signal 92a, a color and / or pattern command 92b, a speed command 92c (i.e., a command regarding the speed of the perceived light flux or the perceived light movement), and a direction command 92d (i.e., a command regarding the direction of the perceived light flux).

[0055] Fig. Figure 4 illustrates various light patterns that can be used to convey information. It should be noted that the patterns are described for illustrative purposes and are not intended to be limiting. As discussed further herein, the light patterns can be stationary or moving.

[0056] Each pattern shown corresponds to a different operating mode. An "operating mode" may refer to a charging mode (e.g., charging, charge type, discharging, etc.), a state of the vehicle 10, a state of a charging station (or other power source or energy storage system), an environmental condition, and others.

[0057] All or a subset of the light sources 74 can be activated to emit a selected color to indicate a particular mode of operation. For example, indicators M1 are used to indicate a vehicle charging mode, while indicator M2 is used to indicate a discharging mode. Indicators M1 and M2 can be assigned the color yellow (and can be dashed, as described further herein). An indicator M3 indicates that charging or discharging is complete and can be green. An indicator M4 indicates an error and can be green, while indicator M5 can be white and serves to illuminate the charging cable 70 so that it is visible in the dark (a "night light" function). A charging pause indicator M6 can also be white, an inclement weather indicator M7 can be blue, and a "plug in vehicle" reminder M8 can be green.

[0058] The indicators M1 are provided, for example, for various charging modes (i.e., modes in which the vehicle battery system is charged by the charging station 74 or another power source). As shown, light of a selected color (e.g., yellow) is emitted, displaying a dashed line pattern (with a sequence of dashes) along the charging cable 70.

[0059] The M1 indicators can be configured to represent different charging levels or types. Level 1 charging, Level 2 charging, low-power DC charging (indoor), and DCFC charging are represented, for example, by successively smaller bar lengths, as shown in Fig. 3. In other words, indicator M1a indicates level 1 charging and has long bars; indicator M1b indicates level 2 charging and has bars shorter than the bars of indicator M1a. Indicator M1c (low-power charging) has bars shorter than the bars of indicator M1b, while indicator M1d (DCFC) has even shorter bars.

[0060] Additionally, the patterns may be stationary or "moving" (i.e., perceived as moving). For example, for a charging mode (indicator M1), the light pattern may be a moving pattern in which the light sources are operated to provide an illusion that the bars are moving in a direction d1 along the charging cable 70 from the charging station 74 (or other power source) toward the vehicle 10. According to another example, the light pattern for the discharging mode (indicator M2) is presented such that the bars appear to move in a direction d2 along the charging cable 70 from the vehicle 10 to the charging station 74 (or other energy storage system).

[0061] A movement pattern may be configured to move at a selected apparent speed. According to one embodiment, the speed of indicators M1 and M2 may be selected based on the charging capacity or state of charge (SOC). For example, level 1 charging may be associated with a lowest speed (indicator M1a), while DCFC charging may be associated with a highest speed (indicator M1d).

[0062] As stated above, each of the indicators can be customized based on user preferences. Customized indicators are indicated as an MX indicator.

[0063] Fig. 5 illustrates embodiments of a method 100 for generating visual indicators on a charging cable. The method 100 is provided for conditions where a vehicle battery system is connected to a power source or energy storage system in a well-lit environment. The method 100 is described for illustrative purposes as performed by the ECU 84, the vehicle 10, and the charging station 74, but is not limited thereto.

[0064] The method 100 includes a number of steps or phases represented by blocks 101-127. The method 100 is not limited to the number or order of the steps therein, as some of the steps represented by blocks 101-127 may be performed in a different order than that described below, or fewer than all of the steps may be performed.

[0065] Aspects of the methods described herein may be performed by a processor or a combination of processors. For example, method 100 is performed by a charging station controller, a vehicle controller, a remote controller (e.g., a controller connected to a charging station or vehicle via a network), or a combination thereof. It should be noted that method 100 is not so limited and may be performed by any suitable processing device or system, or a combination of processing devices.

[0066] In block 101, a processing device, such as the ECU 84, detects that the vehicle 10 is connected to the charging station 74 via the charging cable 70. The processing device may also determine (e.g., by detecting the ambient light intensity) whether the lighting conditions are sufficient.

[0067] When the vehicle 10 is connected and the lighting conditions are sufficient, the processing device determines a state of the vehicle 10, the charging station 74, and / or the environment around the vehicle 10 and the charging station 74. Based on the determined state, the processing device controls the light sources 72 to generate a specific light pattern.

[0068] If the processing device determines that the vehicle 10 is charging (block 102), the processing device determines in block 103 whether a person is in proximity to the charging cable 70. This determination may be made based on detected footsteps via a microphone or accelerometer, camera monitoring, or otherwise.

[0069] If the processing device detects that a person is nearby at block 104 (e.g., via footstep detection, camera monitoring, key fob detection, etc.), the light sources 72 are operated to provide an indicator (e.g., an M1 indicator) of a charge level. For example, the light sources 72 may pulse yellow to create lines that appear to move from the charging station 74 toward the vehicle 10.

[0070] The light sources 72 can be controlled to produce a line length corresponding to the charging type. Additionally, the perceived speed can be controlled to indicate the charging speed.

[0071] For example, if loading is level 1 (block 105), indicator M1a is generated in block 106, which has the longest stroke length and the slowest movement speed. If loading is level 2 (block 107), indicator M1b is generated in block 108, which has the longest stroke length and the second slowest movement speed.

[0072] If the charging is DC low power (block 109), the indicator M1c is generated in block 110, which has a bar length shorter than the M1b bar length and a movement speed greater than the second slowest speed. If the charging is DCFC (block 111), the indicator M1d is generated in block 112, which has the shortest bar length and the fastest movement speed.

[0073] If charging is interrupted (block 113), a visual indicator, such as a solid white light pattern, is displayed on the charging cable 70 in block 114. Once the vehicle's charging is complete in block 115 (i.e., it is detected that the vehicle battery system 40 has reached a target SOC), the visual indicator is changed to a solid green color (e.g., indicator M3) in block 116.

[0074] If the processing device determines that the vehicle 10 is being discharged (block 117), the processing device determines in block 118 whether a person is in proximity to the charging cable 70. If the processing device detects in block 119 that a person is in proximity, the light sources 72 are operated to provide an indicator (e.g., indicator M2). The indicator may be configured to appear to move toward the vehicle 10. The light sources 72 pulse, for example, yellow, to create lines that appear to move from the vehicle 10 toward the charging station 74.

[0075] When the vehicle discharge is completed in block 120 (i.e., it is detected that the vehicle battery system 40 has reached a target discharge SOC), the visual indicator in block 121 is changed to a solid green color (e.g., indicator M3).

[0076] The method 100 may include detecting other conditions and generating associated visual indicators. For example, if a vehicle or station fault is detected (block 122), a solid red indicator, such as indicator M4, is generated in block 123. If adverse weather conditions (e.g., rain, snow, fog, etc.) are detected in block 124, a visual indicator designed to be visible under such conditions is generated in block 125. For example, a solid blue color (or another color that is more visible under a given condition) is displayed along the charging cable 70. Finally, after the vehicle is disconnected (block 126), and assuming no other relevant conditions exist, the light sources 72 are turned off in block 127.

[0077] Fig. 6 illustrates embodiments of a method 130 for generating visual indicators on a charging cable, provided for situations where a vehicle and / or a person are near the charging cable, but the vehicle is disconnected from a power source or energy storage system. For illustrative purposes, the method 130 is described as being performed by the ECU 84, the vehicle 10, and the charging station 74, but is not limited thereto.

[0078] The method 130 includes a number of steps or phases represented by blocks 131-145. The method 130 is not limited to the number or order of the steps therein, as some of the steps represented by blocks 131-145 may be performed in a different order than described below, or fewer than all of the steps may be performed.

[0079] In block 131, the vehicle 10 is at or near the charging station 74, but is not yet connected to the charging station 74 via the charging cable 70. In block 132, the processing device monitors the charging station 74 and / or the environment around the charging station 74. For example, a microphone or accelerometer is monitored to detect footsteps in the vicinity.

[0080] If steps are detected in block 133, the processing device monitors the ambient light level and determines whether the environment is too dark (i.e., below a selected light level). Ambient light conditions may be monitored via a light sensor, a camera, weather and / or time-of-day and time-of-year information, and others. If the environment is too dark, the processing unit causes the light sources 72 to generate a continuous white light pattern in block 134.

[0081] In block 135, the processing device detects (e.g., via key fob detection) that the vehicle 10 is near the charging station. The processing device communicates (e.g., via wireless communication) with the vehicle 10 and determines the vehicle SOC (or receives an indication from the vehicle that charging is required). If the SOC is low or it is otherwise determined that charging is required (block 136), an indicator, such as a flashing solid green color, is generated (block 137). This indicator may serve as a reminder to a person (driver or user) to plug in the vehicle 10. If charging is not required (block 138), a solid white color is generated (or maintained) in block 139.

[0082] If a vehicle or station fault is detected (block 140), a solid red indicator, such as indicator M4, is generated in block 141. If adverse weather conditions (e.g., rain, snow, fog, etc.) are detected in block 142, a visual indicator designed to be seen under such conditions (e.g., a solid blue light pattern) is generated in block 143. Finally, if the vehicle 10 leaves the area and no vehicle or person is detected nearby (block 144), the light sources 72 are turned off in block 145.

[0083] It should be noted that various condition detections (and the associated generation of a visual indicator) can be prioritized. For example, in method 100, the detection of a vehicle or station fault (block 122) has the highest priority, while the detection of adverse weather conditions (block 124) has the next highest priority. The loading (block 102) and unloading (block 117) of vehicles has a priority lower than that of block 124, while the detection in block 126 has the lowest priority.

[0084] For example, in method 130, the detection of a vehicle or station fault (block 140) has the highest priority, while the detection of adverse weather conditions (block 142) has the next highest priority. The detection of a vehicle and / or person (block 132) has a priority lower than that of block 142, while the detection in block 144 has the lowest priority.

[0085] As stated herein, the specific format of any particular visual indicator can be varied as desired. Consequently, any appropriate light pattern can be selected for a particular condition.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the charging system is configurable so that a user (person or driver) can interact with the vehicle 10 and / or the charging station 74 to customize a visual indicator.

[0087] Fig. 7 illustrates embodiments of a method 150 for customizing or configuring visual indicators. The method may be performed by a customer to store a set of visual indicators specific to a customer's preferences. The method 150 may also be performed by a technician or operator to set default visual indicators. The method 150 may be performed using any suitable processing device and user interface.

[0088] The method 150 includes a number of steps or phases represented by blocks 151-160. The method 150 is not limited to the number or order of the steps therein, as some of the steps represented by blocks 151-160 may be performed in a different order than described below, or fewer than all of the steps may be performed.

[0089] In block 151, the user enters instructions regarding the condition for which a visual indicator is being designed. For example, the user enters "if" conditions for one or more conditions. In block 152, a color (or combination of colors) is selected, and in block 153, optional light motion effects, such as a speed and direction of motion, are selected.

[0090] The user can select whether the light pattern is continuous (block 154), pulsating (block 155), or flowing (appearing to move, block 157). If pulsating light is selected, the frequency at which the light pulses (i.e., turns on and off) can be selected in block 156. If flowing light is selected, the frequency or stroke length can be selected (block 158) and the direction of movement can be selected (block 159). In block 160, the user's selections and the configuration of the visual indicator are stored for use by a processing device to generate the preferred indicator.

[0091] Fig.Figure 8 illustrates aspects of one embodiment of a computer system 240 that can perform various aspects of the embodiments described herein. Computer system 240 includes at least one processing device 242, generally including one or more processors, for performing aspects of the image acquisition and analysis methods described herein.

[0092] The components of computer system 240 include processing device 242 (such as one or more processors or one or more processing units), memory 244, and a bus 246 that couples various system components, including system memory 244, to processing device 242. System memory 244 may be a non-transitory computer-readable medium and may include various media readable by a computer system. Such media may be any available media accessible by processing device 242 and include both volatile and non-volatile media, as well as removable and non-removable media.

[0093] For example, system memory 244 includes non-volatile memory 248, such as a hard disk drive, and may also include volatile memory 250, such as random access memory (RAM) and / or cache memory. Computer system 240 may further include other removable / non-removable, volatile / non-volatile computer system storage media.

[0094] System memory 244 may include at least one program product having a set of program modules (i.e., at least one program module) configured to perform the functions of the embodiments described herein. For example, system memory 244 stores various program modules that generally perform the functions and / or methodologies of the embodiments described herein. A module 252 may be included to perform the functions related to sensing signals and data, while a module 254 may be included to perform the functions related to controlling the light sources on a charging cable, as discussed herein. System 240 is not so limited, as other modules may be included.As used herein, the term "module" refers to processing circuitry that may include an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an electronic circuit, a (shared, dedicated, or grouped) processor and memory executing one or more software or firmware programs, a combinational logic circuit, and / or other suitable components that provide the described functionality.

[0095] Processing device 242 may also communicate with one or more external devices 256, such as a keyboard, a pointing device, and / or any devices (e.g., a network card, a modem, etc.) that enable processing device 242 to communicate with one or more other computing devices. Communication with various devices may occur via input / output (I / O) interfaces 264 and 265.

[0096] Processing device 242 may also communicate with one or more networks 266, such as a local area network (LAN), a general wide area network (WAN), a bus network, and / or a public network (e.g., the Internet), via a network adapter 268. It should be appreciated that, although not shown, other hardware and / or software components may be used in conjunction with computer system 40. Examples include, but are not limited to, microcode, device drivers, redundant processing units, external disk drive arrays, RAID systems, and data archive storage systems, etc.

[0097] The terms "a" and "an" do not imply a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the designated element. The term "or" means "and / or" unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Reference throughout the specification to "an aspect" means that a particular element (e.g., a feature, structure, step, or property) described in connection with the aspect is included in at least one aspect described herein and may or may not be present in other aspects. In addition, it should be recognized that the described elements in the various aspects may be combined in any suitable manner.

[0098] When an element, such as a layer, film, region, or substrate, is described as being "on" another element, it may be directly on top of the other element, or there may also be intervening elements. Conversely, when an element is described as being "directly on" another element, there are no intervening elements.

[0099] Unless otherwise specified herein, all examination standards are the most recent standard in effect as of the date of filing of this application or, if priority is claimed, the date of filing of the earliest priority application in which the examination standard appears.

[0100] Unless otherwise defined, technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs.

[0101] While the above disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be recognized by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope thereof. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the disclosure without departing from its essential scope. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, but will include all embodiments falling within its scope.

Claims

[1] Energy transmission system comprising: a charging cable configured to electrically connect a battery system to a power source or energy storage system, the battery system configured to power an electric motor of a vehicle; a display system including at least one light source attached to the charging cable; and a controller configured to control the display system to generate a visual indicator on the charging cable, the visual indicator indicating a condition related to the energy transfer operation. [2] The energy transfer system of claim 1, wherein the at least one light source comprises a plurality of light sources arranged along a length of the charging cable. [3] The energy transfer system of claim 1, wherein the visual indicator is configured to alert a person to a location of the charging cable. [4] The energy transfer system of claim 3, wherein the controller is configured to generate the visual indicator based on detecting that the person is in proximity to the charging cable. [5] The energy transfer system of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to control the display system to generate a light pattern indicative of the condition, wherein the condition includes a charge state, a discharge state, and / or an ambient state. [6] The energy transfer system of claim 5, wherein the light pattern is selected based on a charge level. [7] The energy transfer system of claim 5, wherein the light pattern is a moving pattern indicating the direction of energy flow, the light pattern moving in a first direction along the charging cable away from the battery system based on the state being the discharge state, and the light pattern moving in a second direction along the charging cable toward the battery system based on the state being the charge state. [8] The energy transfer system of claim 5, wherein the light pattern is configured to facilitate visual detection of the charging cable when the ambient condition causes the charging cable to be hidden from view. [9] The energy transfer system of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to detect whether the vehicle and / or a person are in proximity to the energy source or the energy storage system, wherein the visual indicator is configured to remind the person to connect the charging cable based on the charging cable being disconnected. [10] Procedure which includes: Monitoring an energy transfer system, the energy transfer system configured to perform at least one of: transferring charge from an energy source to a battery system and transferring charge from the battery system to an energy storage system, the energy transfer system including a charging cable configured to electrically connect the battery system to one of the energy source and the energy storage system, the battery system configured to power an electric motor of a vehicle; Detecting a condition relating to an energy transfer operation; and based on the detection, controlling at least one light source attached to the charging cable to generate a visual indicator on the charging cable, the visual indicator indicating the condition.

Images