PORTABLE POWER SUPPLY WITH AUTOMATIC START

Abstract

Portable power supply with automatic start. The portable power supply includes a power source, an outlet electrically coupled to the power source and designed to connect to a load, and an electronic processor coupled to the power source and the outlet. The electronic processor is designed to automatically enable the outlet when the power source's state of charge (SOC) meets an automatic start threshold.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 583,343, filed September 18, 2023, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. BACKGROUND

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a portable power supply, in particular to a portable power supply with an automatic start function. SUMMARY

[0003] One embodiment provides a portable power supply that may include a power source and an electrical outlet electrically coupled to the power source and configured for connection to a load. The portable power supply may also include an electronic processor coupled to the power source and the outlet. The electronic processor may be configured to control charging of the power source using power provided by an external power source. The electronic processor may also be configured to enable an automatic start function.When the automatic start function is enabled, the electronic processor may be configured to lock the outlet in response to a state of charge (SOC) of the power source being below a low-battery threshold, and to automatically unlock the outlet in response to the SOC of the power source rising above an automatic start threshold during charging. The automatic start threshold may be greater than the low-battery threshold. The electronic processor may also be configured to lock the automatic start function. When the automatic start function is disabled, the electronic processor may be configured to lock the outlet in response to the SOC of the power source being below a low-battery threshold, and to keep the outlet locked in response to the SOC of the power source rising above the automatic start threshold during charging.

[0004] In addition to any combination of the features described above, the portable power supply may include a user interface communicatively coupled to the electronic processor. The electronic processor may be further configured to control the user interface to provide an indication that the portable power supply's auto-start function is enabled in response to the auto-start function being enabled and while the auto-start function remains enabled.

[0005] In addition to any combination of the features described above, the electronic processor may be further configured to receive an updated threshold via a user input received via the user interface and to update the automatic start threshold according to the updated threshold.

[0006] In addition to any combination of the features described above, the electronic processor may be further configured to receive a command via a user input received via the user interface and to control whether the automatic start function is enabled or disabled based on the command.

[0007] In addition to any combination of the features described above, the portable power supply may include a wireless communication device. The electronic processor may be communicatively coupled to the wireless communication device and may be further configured to receive an updated threshold from an external device via the wireless communication device and update the automatic start threshold according to the updated threshold.

[0008] In addition to any combination of the features described above, the portable power supply may include a wireless communication device. The electronic processor may be communicatively coupled to the wireless communication device and may be further configured to receive a command from an external device via the wireless communication device and, based on the command, control whether the automatic start function of the portable power supply is enabled or disabled.

[0009] Another embodiment provides a portable power supply that may include a power source and an outlet electrically coupled to the power source and configured for connection to a load. The portable power supply may also include an electronic processor coupled to the power source and the outlet. The electronic processor may be configured to automatically enable the outlet in response to a state of charge (SOC) of the power source meeting an automatic start threshold.

[0010] In addition to any combination of the features described above, the portable power supply may include a user interface communicatively coupled to the electronic processor. The electronic processor may be further configured to control the user interface to provide an indication that the portable power supply's auto-start function is enabled in response to the auto-start function being enabled and while the auto-start function remains enabled. The electronic processor may be configured to automatically enable the outlet in response to the power source's SOC meeting the auto-start threshold when the auto-start function is enabled.

[0011] In addition to any combination of the features described above, the electronic processor may be further configured to receive an updated threshold via a user input received via the user interface and to update the automatic start threshold according to the updated threshold.

[0012] In addition to any combination of the features described above, the electronic processor may be further configured to receive a command via a user input received via the user interface and to control whether the automatic start function is enabled or disabled based on the command.

[0013] In addition to any combination of the features described above, the portable power supply may include a housing configured to house the power supply and the electronic processor. The power outlet may be located on the housing. A power receptacle may be disposed on the housing and electrically coupled to the power source. The external power source may be coupled to the power receptacle via a power cord. The power receptacle may be configured to enable charging of the power source.

[0014] In addition to any combination of the features described above, the portable power supply may include a wireless communication device. The electronic processor may be communicatively coupled to the wireless communication device and may be further configured to receive an updated threshold from an external device via the wireless communication device and update the automatic start threshold according to the updated threshold.

[0015] In addition to any combination of the features described above, the portable power supply may include a wireless communication device. The electronic processor may be communicatively coupled to the wireless communication device and may be further configured to receive a command from an external device via the wireless communication device and, based on the command, control whether an automatic start function of the portable power supply is enabled or disabled. The electronic processor may be configured to automatically enable the outlet in response to the SOC of the power source meeting the automatic start threshold when the automatic start function is enabled.

[0016] In addition to any combination of the features described above, the socket may be designed to supply alternating current (AC) to the load.

[0017] In addition to any combination of the features described above, the power source may include multiple battery cells.

[0018] In addition to any combination of the features described above, the electronic processor may be configured to determine the SOC of the power source while the power source is charging.

[0019] In addition to any combination of the features described above, the electronic processor may be configured to enable an automatic start function. When the automatic start function is enabled, the electronic processor may be configured to disable the outlet in response to the power source's SOC being below a low-battery threshold and to automatically enable the outlet in response to the power source's SOC rising above the automatic start threshold during charging. The automatic start threshold may be greater than the low-battery threshold.

[0020] In addition to any combination of the features described above, the electronic processor may be configured to disable the automatic start function. When the automatic start function is disabled, the electronic processor may be configured to disable the outlet in response to the power source's SOC being below a low-battery threshold and to keep the outlet disabled in response to the power source's SOC rising above the automatic start threshold during charging.

[0021] Another embodiment provides a method for controlling a portable power supply. The method may include electrically coupling a power source of the portable power supply to an external power source. The method may further include charging the power source using power provided by an external power source. The method may further include automatically enabling, with an electronic processor of the portable power supply, an outlet of the portable power supply in response to a state of charge (SOC) of the power source meeting an auto-start threshold. The outlet may be electrically coupled to the power source and configured for connection to a load.

[0022] In addition to any combination of the features described above, the method may further include enabling, with the electronic processor, an automatic start function that utilizes the automatic start threshold. When the automatic start function is enabled, the method may include disabling, with the electronic processor, the outlet in response to a state of charge (SOC) of the power source being below a low battery threshold and re-enabling, with the electronic processor, the outlet in response to the SOC of the power source rising above an automatic start threshold during charging. The automatic start threshold may be greater than the low battery threshold. The method may also include disabling, with the electronic processor, the automatic start function.If the automatic start function is disabled, the method may include disabling, with the electronic processor, the outlet in response to the SOC of the power source being below a low battery threshold and keeping the outlet disabled, with the electronic processor, in response to the SOC of the power source increasing above the automatic start threshold during charging.

[0023] Further features and aspects of the disclosure will become apparent upon consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. 1 is a front view of a portable power supply according to embodiments disclosed herein. Fig. 2 is a detailed perspective view of the portable power supply of Fig. 1 with socket panel removed. Fig. 3 illustrates a user interface for the portable power supply of Fig. 1. Fig. Figure 4 is a simplified block diagram showing an example current flow for the portable power supply of Fig. 1 shows. Fig. Figure 5 illustrates a schematic hardware diagram for the portable power supply of Fig. 1. Fig. Figure 6 illustrates a flowchart of a method for the portable power supply of Fig. 1 to provide power based on an input to activate an automatic start function. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] Before embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the subject matter is not limited in its application to the details of construction and arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The subject matter is capable of other embodiments and may be practiced or carried out in various ways. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be considered limiting.

[0025] Battery-operated portable power supplies ("portable power supplies") are used instead of gas-powered generators to power or charge electrical loads such as power tools, computers, cell phones, or the like. Portable power supplies may include various types of outlets, for example, an alternating current (AC) outlet, a universal serial bus (USB), a 12-volt outlet, or the like. A power switch is provided on the portable power supply to turn the portable power supply on or off. When the portable power supply is turned on, the outlets are enabled, allowing power from the portable power source to power a connected load. When the portable power supply is turned off, the outlets are locked, preventing power from being supplied through the outlets.The power switch allows a user to selectively turn the portable power supply on or off.

[0026] Portable power supplies may incorporate a simultaneous charging and discharging feature, which allows the batteries of the portable power supplies to be charged and discharged simultaneously. The simultaneous charging and discharging feature enables improved usability of the portable power supply, thus reducing the inactivity time due to charging the portable power supply.

[0027] When supplying loads, the portable power supply may automatically shut down, meaning it will disable the outlets, when the batteries reach a low voltage threshold. In these cases, the user must use the power switch to turn the power supply back on before the power supply can be used to output power again. Accordingly, there is a need for portable power supplies with automatic start-up.

[0028] Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 illustrates one embodiment of a portable power supply 100. The portable power supply 100 is suitable for providing power at a remote location, such as a construction site. When a permanent power source such as a mains power (e.g., a wall outlet) is not available (or within reach), and power is required to operate electrically powered tools, the portable power supply 100 can provide power for use by those tools. The portable power supply 100 can provide alternating current (AC) power for tools such as corded drills, saws, and the like, as well as battery chargers and / or direct current (DC) power for DC-powered tools. The portable power supply 100 includes a housing 110, an outlet panel assembly 120, one or more DC outlets 130, a power receptacle 140, and a user interface panel 150.The outlet panel assembly 120, the one or more DC outlets 130, the power receptacle 140, and the user interface panel 150 are provided / disposed on the housing 110. The housing 110 may be made of a durable material such as metal, plastic, or the like that can withstand scratches, dents, or other similar wear and tear common on a construction site. The outlet panel assembly 120 includes one or more electrical outlets 160. In the illustrated example, the one or more electrical outlets 160 include alternating current (AC) outlets similar to wall outlets. In some examples, the outlets 160 may include other types of outlets. The outlet panel assembly 120 may be a modular outlet panel assembly that can be replaced with another outlet panel assembly 120 having a similar or different configuration of outlets 160.The DC sockets 130 and the electrical sockets 160 may be referred to collectively as sockets 130, 160 or electrical sockets 130, 160.

[0029] The one or more DC power outlets 130 include, for example, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) outlet (e.g., USB-C, USB-A, mini-USB, etc.), a 12-volt outlet, or the like. The power receptacle 140 may include or receive a power cord that can be plugged into a wall outlet to receive AC mains power for charging the portable power supply 100. The housing 110 may form a cavity 170. A power source 180 is received within the cavity 170. The power source 180 may include a plurality of battery cells, for example, lithium-ion battery cells or the like. In some examples, the power source 180 includes a battery core having a plurality of battery cells. The plurality of battery cells may be connected in a series-parallel configuration based on the desired output voltage of the portable power supply 100. In one example, the plurality of battery cells are connected in a 28S5P configuration.The 28S5P configuration includes five (5) strings of battery cells connected in parallel, with each string of battery cells including twenty-eight (28) battery cells connected in series. Other configurations may be used depending on the desired output voltage, capacity, and other related factors. In some examples, the power source 180 may include removable battery packs instead of or in addition to the battery core. The removable battery packs may include power tool battery packs.

[0030] Fig. 3 illustrates one embodiment of the user interface panel 150, which includes a display 210, an on / off switch 220 (e.g., power button 220), and an AC output button 230. The display 210 provides an operator with information regarding the portable power supply 100, such as a state of charge (SOC) of the internal power source 180, a runtime, a temperature, an instantaneous or average output power, a charging status, a discharging status, an AC output frequency, fault conditions, and / or the like. The user interface panel 150 includes various controls (e.g., buttons, switches, displays, indicators, etc.) to allow an operator to control the operation of the portable power supply 100. The display 210 includes one or more light-emitting diode (LED) indicators configured to illuminate and display the various information as mentioned above.In some embodiments, the display 210 is a liquid crystal display (LCD), an LED display, an organic LED (OLED) display, an electroluminescent display (ELD), a surface conduction electron emitter (SED) display, a field emission display (FED), a thin film transistor (TFT) LCD, an electronic ink (E-Ink) display, and / or the like.

[0031] The power button 220 can be operated to turn the portable power supply 100 on or off depending on the current state of the device. In some embodiments, a user can enable an auto-start function by continuously pressing, for example, the power button 220, the AC output button 230, or another button (e.g., a USB output button), or a combination of simultaneously or sequentially pressing these and other buttons for a threshold time (e.g., holding the power button 220 for 5 seconds). The icon 240 indicates the status of the auto-start function. For example, the icon 240 can be provided when the auto-start function is enabled and not provided when the auto-start function is disabled.In other words, the icon 240 may illuminate (e.g., solid or flashing) in response to the auto-start function being enabled and while the auto-start function remains enabled. In some cases, the auto-start function may be disabled based on the condition of the portable power supply 100 (e.g., if the AC load is above a threshold or if an internal temperature or battery temperature is above a threshold).

[0032] The AC output button 230 can be pressed to enable the AC inverter. For example, a user can first press the power switch 220 and then the AC output button 230 to enable an AC output. In some embodiments, the portable power supply 100 may not include the AC output button 230, and a user can enable the AC output by pressing only the power switch 220. In some embodiments, additional buttons, for example, a USB output button or the like, may be provided on the interface panel 150. The USB output button can be pressed to enable the USB outlets (e.g., the DC outlets 130). In some embodiments, the portable power supply 100 may not include the display 210. In the illustrated embodiment, the user interface panel 150 is positioned adjacent a first side wall of the housing 110.In other embodiments, the user interface panel 150 may be positioned in other locations, including within the cavity 170.

[0033] In some embodiments, the portable power supply 100 may include a wireless transceiver (see Fig. 5) for wirelessly communicating commands and data between the portable power supply 100 and an external device (e.g., a smartphone, a tablet computer, a mobile phone, a laptop, a smartwatch, and the like). In these embodiments, the user interface panel 150 may be integrated (or mirrored) into a mobile application that communicates with the portable power supply 100 using a wireless communication protocol (e.g., Bluetooth®).

[0034] Fig. Figure 4 is a simplified block diagram showing an exemplary power flow 300 for the power supply 100. The portable power supply 100 is powered using a power cord via the power jack 140 (see Fig. 2) connected to an AC wall outlet 310 (e.g., an external power source). The AC power received from the AC wall outlet 310 is supplied to the core charger 320 to charge the power source 180. In some examples, an AC / DC converter may be included in the core charger 320 to convert the AC power to DC power to charge the power source 180. The DC power from the power source 180 is supplied to the inverter 330. The inverter 330 converts the DC power from the power source 180 for supply to the outlets 160. The outlets 160 are used to power electrical loads 340, for example, power tools. In the illustrated example, the power source 180 may be charged and discharged simultaneously. However, in some cases, no pass-through current may flow directly from the receptacle 140 to the outlets 160.The power source 180 can therefore be charged while supplying output power to connected electrical loads 340. In some examples, the portable power supply 100 is charged automatically (i.e., without user input) when the power cord is plugged into a 120 VAC power source (e.g., the AC wall outlet 310).

[0035] In other examples, a bypass path may be provided between the receptacle 140 and the outlets 160 to provide a pass-through current to the outlets 160 when the power source 180 is charging. In some examples, the current output from the power source 180 may be terminated while the power source 180 is charging.

[0036] Fig. 5 shows a schematic hardware diagram 400 for the portable power supply 100, including the core charger 320, a plurality of sensors 410, a power converter 420, a plurality of indicators 430, and a wireless communication device 440 communicatively coupled to a controller 450. The controller 450 controls the core charger 320 to charge the power source 180. For example, the controller 450 controls the power conversion and a charging scheme (e.g., constant voltage, constant current, or the like) of the core charger 320 to charge the power source 180. The sensors 410 are configured to sense electrical characteristics of the power supply 100 (e.g., voltage of the power source 180, state of charge (SOC) of the power source 180, current output of the power supply 100, temperature of the power supply 100, and / or the like).

[0037] Power converter 420 includes inverter 330 and a DC / DC converter 425. Inverter 330 provides an AC output, for example, to outlets 160. Inverter 330 includes a power switching network with a plurality of switches (e.g., field-effect transistors (FETs). Controller 450 controls the plurality of switches, for example, using pulse-width modulated (PWM) control signals applied to the gates of the plurality of switches. The controller 450 controls the inverter 330 to convert the direct current from the power source 180 to alternating current for supply via the electrical outlets 160. The DC / DC converter 425 may include a flyback converter, an active clamp flyback converter, a boost / buck converter, or the like to convert the direct current from the power source 180 at a first voltage to a direct current at a second voltage for supply to the DC outlets 130.The electrical components of the power supply 100 can be powered using an input from either the receptacle 140 or the power source 180.

[0038] The indicators 430 receive control signals from the controller 450 to generate a visual signal to communicate information regarding the operation or status of the portable power supply 100 to the user. The indicators 430 may, for example, be provided on the user interface panel 150. The indicators 430 may generate various signals that indicate, for example, an operating state or mode of the portable power supply 100 (e.g., that the automatic start function is enabled via icon 240), an abnormal condition or event detected during operation of the portable power supply 100, etc.

[0039] The controller 450 is electrically and / or communicatively connected to a plurality of modules or components of the portable power supply 100. In some embodiments, the controller 450 includes a plurality of electrical and electronic components that provide power, operational control, and protection to the components and modules in the controller 450 and / or the portable power supply 100. For example, the controller 450 includes, among other things, an electronic processor 500 (e.g., a microprocessor, a microcontroller, an electronic processor, or other suitable programmable device), a memory 510, input units 520, and output units 530. The electronic processor 500 includes, among other things, a control unit 540, an arithmetic logic unit ("ALU") 550, and a plurality of registers 560. In some embodiments, the controller 450 is partially or entirely embodied on a semiconductor chip (e.g.,a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) semiconductor chip or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), such as one developed using a register transfer level (RTL) design process. Although the electronic processor 500 is shown as a component of the controller 450, in some cases, the controller 450 may itself be referred to as an electronic processor. The controller 450 may include additional or alternative components, and / or its components may be arranged differently than shown in FIG. Fig. 5 shown.

[0040] The controller 450 is configured to retrieve and execute instructions from the memory 510 relating to, among other things, the control processes and methods described herein. The memory 510 includes, for example, a program storage area 570 and a data storage area 580. The program storage area 570 and the data storage area 580 may be combinations of different memory types, such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM) (e.g., dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), and the like), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, a hard disk, an SD card, or other suitable magnetic, optical, physical, or electronic storage devices. The controller 450 is connected to the memory 510 and executes software instructions stored in a RAM of the memory 510 (e.g.,during execution), a read-only memory of the memory 510 (e.g., on a generally permanent basis), or another non-transitory computer-readable medium such as another memory or disk. The software included in the implementation of the portable power supply 100 may be stored in the memory 510 of the controller 450. The software includes, for example, firmware, one or more applications, program data, filters, rules, one or more program modules, and other executable instructions.

[0041] The wireless communication device 440 is coupled to the controller 450. The wireless communication device 440 may include, for example, a wireless transceiver and antenna, a memory, a processor, and a real-time clock. The wireless transceiver and antenna cooperate to send and receive wireless messages to and from an external device, as described above. The memory of the wireless communication device 440 stores instructions to be implemented by the processor of the wireless communication device 440 and / or may store data associated with communications between the portable power supply 100 and the external device.The processor for the wireless communication device 440 controls wireless communications between the portable power supply 100 and the external device (e.g., a smartphone running a mobile application associated with the portable power supply 100). For example, the processor of the wireless communication device 440 buffers incoming and / or outgoing data, communicates with the controller 450, and determines the communication protocol and / or settings to be used in wireless communications.

[0042] In some embodiments, the wireless communication device 440 is a Bluetooth® controller. The Bluetooth® controller communicates with the external device using the Bluetooth® protocol. Therefore, in such embodiments, the external device and the portable power supply 100 are within communication range of each other while exchanging data. In other embodiments, the wireless communication device 440 communicates using other protocols (e.g., Wi-Fi, cellular protocols, a proprietary protocol, etc.) over another type of wireless network. For example, the wireless communication device 440 may be configured to communicate using Wi-Fi over a wide area network, such as the Internet, or a local area network, or to communicate via a piconet (e.g., using infrared or near field communication (NFC)).Communication via the wireless communication device 440 may be encrypted to protect the data exchanged between the portable power supply 100 and the external device from third parties.

[0043] In some cases, an external device designed to communicate with the portable power supply 100 may include similar components with similar functionality as those described herein with respect to Fig. 5. For example, the external device may include a controller similar to controller 450 and a wireless communication device 440 similar to wireless communication device 440. Furthermore, the external device may include a display similar to user interface panel 150. In some cases, the display may include a touchscreen.

[0044] In some embodiments, the controller 450 is configured to control whether an automatic start function of the portable power supply is enabled or disabled. The automatic start function may utilize an automatic start threshold to automatically turn on the portable power supply 100 (e.g., to provide AC or DC power via the outlet 160) when the SOC of the power source 180 reaches the automatic start threshold, for example, during charging of the power source 180. In some embodiments, the automatic start threshold is set during manufacturing. In some cases, the automatic start threshold may be set to 10%, 15%, 20%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or more. In some embodiments, the automatic start threshold is configurable.For example, the automatic start threshold may be set / updated by an operator via the user interface panel 150 or via an external device (e.g., via the mobile application) communicating via the wireless communication device 440.

[0045] In some embodiments, the controller 450 is configured to activate the automatic start function when the portable power supply 100 is connected to a power source (e.g., AC power is coupled to the power jack 140 through a power cord or other power transmission device), regardless of whether the portable power supply 100 is on or off (e.g., regardless of the actuation state of the power switch 220). In some embodiments, the controller 450 is configured to activate the automatic start function when a command is received from the user interface panel 150 or an external device. In some embodiments, the controller 450 is configured to activate the automatic start function when the power switch 220 is activated for a threshold time (e.g., 5 seconds).

[0046] In some embodiments, an operator may disable the auto-start function via the user interface panel 150 or via an external device (e.g., by providing a command to the controller 450). In some embodiments, the user interface panel 150 is configured to display an icon 240 indicating that the auto-start function is enabled. The user interface panel 150 may be configured not to display the icon 240 when the auto-start function is disabled, thereby indicating that the auto-start function is disabled. In some cases, the user interface panel 150 may display a different icon or a modified version of the icon 240 (e.g., a line or an "X" through the icon 240) to indicate that the auto-start function is disabled.

[0047] The automatic start function enables the portable power supply 100 to continuously undergo automatic power charging and discharging cycles. For example, the controller 450 enables power output to the outlet 160 to provide power (turns on the portable power supply 100) when the SOC of the power source 180 reaches the set automatic start threshold. The controller 450 can control the power source 180 to charge and discharge simultaneously. Power is supplied via the outlet 160 until the power source 180 is discharged below a predetermined threshold (e.g., fully discharged). The controller 450 disables the outlets 160 when the power source 180 is discharged below the predetermined threshold (e.g., fully discharged). The power source 180 continues to charge until the automatic start threshold (e.g.,80% SOC) is reached again, at which point the controller 450 then enables the outlet 160 to provide power again. The cycle may then repeat. In one example, the controller 450 uses the inverter 330 (or the power converter 420) to enable and disable the outlets 130, 160. For example, the controller 450 disables control of the components of the power converter 420 to disable the outlets 130, 160. In some examples, a discharge control switch (e.g., an FET) may be provided between the power converter 420 and the outlets 130, 160. The controller 450 disables the outlets 130, 160 by opening the discharge control switch to prevent current flow between the power converter 420 and the outlets 130, 160. The controller 450 releases the sockets 130, 160 by closing the discharge control switch.In some examples, a subset of the outlets 130, 160 may be enabled and disabled using the auto-start feature, rather than all outlets 130 and 160 being enabled and disabled using the auto-start feature. The subset of outlets 130, 160 that are enabled and disabled using the auto-start feature may be selected via user input on the user interface panel 150 and / or via user input on the external device.

[0048] Fig. 6 shows a flowchart of an exemplary method 600. The exemplary method 600 may be implemented by the methods described above with respect to Fig. 1-5. The example method 600 generally illustrates in more detail how the portable power supply 100 is configured to provide power through the electrical outlets 130, 160 upon implementation of the auto-start function (e.g., upon receipt of an input to enable the auto-start function).

[0049] For clarity of illustration, the following description describes the exemplary method 600 generally in the context of Fig. 1-5. The electronic processor that performs method 600 may include any one or a combination of electronic processors located in a single device or distributed among different devices and / or systems (e.g., portable power supply 100, external device, etc.). That is, if the claims claim a device or system as including, for example, an electronic processor or other element configured in a particular manner, for example, to perform multiple determinations, then the claim or claim element should be construed to mean one or more electronic processors (or other element), where any one of the one or more electronic processors (or other element) is claimed to be configured, for example, to perform some or all of the multiple determinations.As already mentioned, these electronic processors and this data processing may be located within a single device or distributed across multiple devices. While a specific sequence of processing steps, message receptions, and / or message transmissions in . Fig. 6 as an example, the timing and order of such steps, receptions, and transmissions may vary as appropriate without diminishing the purpose and advantages of the examples particularly set forth in the remainder of this disclosure.

[0050] The method is described as being performed by the controller 450 of the portable power supply 100. However, it should be understood that the method 600 may be performed, for example, by any other suitable system, environment, software and hardware, or a combination of systems, environments, software, and hardware, as appropriate. In some embodiments, various operations of the method 600 may be performed in parallel, in combination, in loops, or in any order. In some embodiments, various operations are optional. In some cases, for example, the portable power supply 100 is configured to continuously implement the automatic start function without receiving any input.

[0051] At block 602, the method 600 includes receiving, using the controller 450, an input to enable the auto-start feature. In some examples, the auto-start feature is enabled using a power switch 220 by holding (e.g., pressing) the power switch 220 for a threshold time (e.g., 5 seconds). In other examples, the auto-start feature is enabled using an external device (e.g., by providing user input at a display of the external device while the external device is executing a mobile application associated with the portable power supply 100). In some examples, the auto-start feature may be automatically enabled unless turned off by a user via user input.In other words, in some cases, block 602 may not be included in method 600, and the auto-start function may be enabled by default unless disabled / disabled by the user via a user input on user interface panel 150 and / or via a user input on the external device. From block 602, method 600 proceeds to block 604.

[0052] At block 604, the method 600 includes determining, using the controller 450, whether the SOC of the power source 180 is above the auto-start threshold and whether the receptacle 140 is connected. The controller 450 compares the SOC of the power source 180 to the auto-start threshold (e.g., 80%). In some examples, a voltage of the power source 180 may be used as a proxy for the SOC. For example, the controller 450 compares an open circuit voltage or a closed circuit voltage of the power source 180 to a voltage threshold to determine whether the SOC is above the auto-start threshold. The controller 450 also determines whether the receptacle 140 is connected to a power source (e.g., to the AC wall outlet) (i.e., whether the receptacle 140 is electrically connected to a power source to receive power from the power source).The controller 450 may determine that the receptacle 140 is connected based on the detection of an input current through the receptacle 140. If both (i) the SOC is greater than (or equal to) the auto-start threshold (i.e., meets the auto-start threshold) and (ii) the receptacle 140 is connected to a power source, the method 600 proceeds to block 606. If the SOC is below the auto-start threshold or if the receptacle 140 is not connected, the method 600 proceeds to block 608. In some examples, the auto-start threshold may be user-selectable. An updated auto-start threshold may be received via user input at the user interface panel 150 or an external device. The controller 450 receives an updated threshold (e.g.,80% → 60%) and updates the auto-start threshold based on the updated threshold.

[0053] At block 606, the method 600 includes enabling, using the controller 450, the electrical outlet 160 and / or the DC outlet 130. The controller 450 controls the power converter 420 and / or the discharge control switch to enable the outlets 130, 160. From block 606, the method 600 proceeds to block 610. The method 600 therefore enables the automatic re-enablement of the electrical outlets 130, 160 during the simultaneous charging and discharging of the power source 180. With the automatic start function, the output AC power can be automatically re-enabled regardless of whether the power supply 100 is turned on / off. For example, when the SOC of the power source 180 reaches the automatic start threshold during charging, the sockets 130, 160 can be automatically released (if the automatic start function is enabled), even if the power supply 100 is turned off (iethe on / off switch 220 is not switched on).

[0054] At block 608, the method 600 includes determining, using the controller 450, whether the power switch 220 is turned on. If the power switch 220 is turned on, the method 600 proceeds to block 606. If the power switch 220 is not actuated, the method 600 proceeds to block 612 to stop supplying power to the electrical outlets 130, 160. In some examples, actuation of the power switch 220 may provide an interrupt signal to the controller 450. The controller 450 enables the outlets 130, 160 in response to receiving the interrupt signal (even if the SOC is below the auto-start threshold).

[0055] At block 610, the method 600 includes determining, using the controller 450, whether the power source 180 is discharging below a low-battery threshold. The controller 450 may determine whether the power source 180 is discharging below a low-battery threshold using the voltage of the power source 180 or the state of charge of the power source 180. For example, the controller 450 compares the voltage of the power source 180 to a low-battery threshold to determine whether the power source 180 is discharging below the low-battery threshold (e.g., fully discharged). The controller 450 may additionally or alternatively determine the state of charge to determine whether the power source 180 is discharging below the low-battery threshold (e.g., fully discharged).In some examples, the low battery threshold may be selected by the user via user input at the user interface panel 150 and / or via user input at the external device. If the SOC is above the low battery threshold, the method 600 continues to enable the outlets 130, 160 (at block 606) and continues to monitor the discharge status of the power source (at block 610) (e.g., after a time interval such as one second, one-tenth of a second, or the like). Conversely, if the power source 180 is discharged below the low battery threshold, the method 600 proceeds to block 612. As will be appreciated from the present description and . Fig. As shown in Figure 6, the automatic start threshold is higher than the low battery threshold.

[0056] At block 612, the method 600 includes locking, using the controller 450, the electrical outlet 160 and / or the DC outlet 130. The controller 450 controls the power converter 420 and / or the discharge control switch to lock the outlets 130, 160. From block 612, the method 600 proceeds to block 604 to repeat. If the automatic start function is locked, the controller 450 does not automatically unlock the electrical outlets 130 and 160, even if the SOC of the power source 180 is above the automatic start threshold. Instead, the controller 450 keeps the outlets 130 and 160 locked when the SOC meets the automatic start threshold and performs enabling and locking of the outlets 130 and 160 based on the position of the on / off switch 220 and / or the AC output button 230.

[0057] The method 600 may repeat until, for example, a command to disable the automatic start function is received (not shown). In some cases, the controller 450 may automatically disable the automatic start function in response to determining that the portable power supply 100 is no longer connected to a power source (e.g., in response to determining that the power receptacle 140 is no longer paired with a power source). In some cases, regardless of the block in the method 600 that the controller 450 is currently executing, the controller 450 may prevent power from being delivered to the electrical outlets 130, 160 in response to the power switch 220 and / or the AC output button 230 being switched to the "off" position.In other words, a user input to disable power output from the outlets 130, 160 may generate an interrupt in the method 600, causing the method 600 to stop until another user input (e.g., the power switch 220 and / or the AC output button 230 is switched to the "on" position, the auto-start function is enabled via a user input, etc.) is received by the portable power supply 100.

[0058] Specific embodiments have been described in the foregoing specification. However, various modifications and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims. Accordingly, the specification and figures are to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present teachings.

[0059] Furthermore, throughout this document, relational terms such as "comprises," "comprising," "has," "having," "includes," "including," "contains," "including," "containing," or any other variation thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, procedure, item, or facility that comprises, has, includes, or contains a list of elements not only includes those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent in such process, procedure, item, or facility. An element that is "comprises a...", "has a...", "includes a...", or "contains a..."’ does not preclude, without further limitation, the presence of additional identical elements in the process, procedure, article or device which comprises, has, includes or contains the element.

[0060] The terms "a" and "an" are defined as one or more unless expressly stated otherwise herein. The terms "substantially," "substantially," "approximately," "about," or any other version thereof are defined as obvious, as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, and in one non-limiting embodiment, the term is defined to be within 10%, in another embodiment within 5%, in another embodiment within 1%, and in another embodiment within 0.5%. The term "coupled," as used herein, is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly and not necessarily mechanically. A device or structure that is "configured" in a certain way is configured in at least that way, but may also be configured in ways not recited.

[0061] Thus, the embodiments described herein provide, among other things, a portable power supply that provides an automatic start function for smooth power supply operation. Various features and advantages are recited in the following claims. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 63 / 583,343

[0001]

Claims

[1] Portable power supply, comprising: a power source; a socket electrically coupled to the power source and configured for connection to a load; and an electronic processor coupled to the power source and the outlet, the electronic processor configured to: Automatically release the socket in response to a power source state of charge (SOC) meeting an automatic start threshold. [2] A portable power supply according to claim 1, further comprising: a user interface communicatively coupled with the electronic processor, wherein the electronic processor is further configured to: Controlling the user interface to provide an indication that an automatic start function of the portable power supply is enabled in response to enabling the automatic start function and while the automatic start function remains enabled, wherein the electronic processor is configured to automatically enable the outlet in response to the SOC of the power source meeting the automatic start threshold when the automatic start function is enabled. [3] The portable power supply of claim 2, wherein the electronic processor is further configured to: Receiving an updated threshold via user input received through the user interface and Update the auto-start threshold according to the updated threshold. [4] The portable power supply of claim 2, wherein the electronic processor is further configured to: Receiving a command via a user input received through the user interface and Control whether the autostart function is enabled or disabled based on the command. [5] A portable power supply according to claim 1, further comprising: a housing adapted to receive the power source and the electronic processor, the socket being located on the housing; and a connection socket arranged on the housing and electrically coupled to the power source; wherein an external power source is coupled to the connection socket by a power cable; and wherein the connection socket is designed to enable charging of the power source. [6] A portable power supply according to claim 1, further comprising: a wireless communication device, wherein the electronic processor is communicatively coupled to the wireless communication device and is further configured to: Receiving an updated threshold via the wireless communication device from an external device and Update the auto-start threshold according to the updated threshold. [7] A portable power supply according to claim 1, further comprising: a wireless communication device, wherein the electronic processor is communicatively coupled to the wireless communication device and is further configured to: Receiving a command via the wireless communication device from an external device and Controlling whether an automatic start function of the portable power supply is enabled or disabled based on the command, wherein the electronic processor is configured to automatically enable the outlet in response to the SOC of the power source meeting the automatic start threshold when the automatic start function is enabled. [8] A portable power supply according to claim 1, wherein the electronic processor is configured to enable an automatic start function, wherein when the automatic start function is enabled, the electronic processor is configured to: Locking the socket in response to the SOC of the power source being below a low battery threshold; and Automatically re-enable the socket in response to the power source SOC rising above the auto-start threshold during charging, where the auto-start threshold is greater than the low battery threshold. [9] A portable power supply according to claim 8, wherein the electronic processor is configured to disable the automatic start function, wherein when the automatic start function is disabled, the electronic processor is configured to: Locking the socket in response to the SOC of the power source being below a low battery threshold; and Keeping the socket locked in response to the power source's SOC rising above the auto-start threshold during charging. [10] A method for controlling a portable power supply, the method comprising: electrically coupling a power source of the portable power supply to an external power source; Charging the power source using power provided by the external power source; and automatically enabling, with an electronic processor of the portable power supply, a receptacle of the portable power supply in response to a state of charge (SOC) of the power source meeting an automatic start threshold, the receptacle being electrically coupled to the power source and configured for connection to a load.

Images