Multi-battery charger with pseudo-pass-through

Abstract

A multi-battery charger may comprise: a multitude of battery interfaces designed to detachably accept a multitude of batteries, a charging circuit electrically connected to the multitude of battery interfaces, a current output, a discharging circuit electrically connected between the multitude of battery interfaces and the current output, and an electronic processor electrically connected to the charging and discharging circuits. The electronic processor may be configured, when a first battery and a second battery are detachably inserted into the multitude of battery interfaces and a first condition is met, to charge the first battery using the charging circuit and to discharge the second battery using the discharging circuit.

Description

Cross-reference to related registrations

[0001] This application claims priority over preliminary US application No. 63 / 688.137, filed on August 28, 2024, and preliminary US application No. 63 / 704.632, filed on October 8, 2024. The full disclosures of the above-mentioned applications are incorporated by reference. Area

[0002] The present disclosure relates to battery chargers and in particular battery chargers capable of managing the simultaneous charging and discharging of multiple batteries. Overview

[0003] Power tool batteries are used by operators at workstations to power various power tools. These batteries can be recharged by connecting them to a battery charger. Connecting a battery charger to available outlets can reduce the number of outlets available for other applications, such as charging USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices. Therefore, there is a need for a multi-battery charger with pseudo-pass capability. Pseudo-pass capability refers to features that allow a battery charger to simultaneously charge one battery and use another battery to power a device connected to the charger, thus ensuring a continuous power supply to the connected device while the battery is charging.

[0004] The battery chargers described here offer a range of technical solutions to these and other technical challenges. For example, these chargers allow users to utilize existing portable power tool batteries to charge various direct current (DC) or alternating current (AC) electrical devices. This capability offers significant technical advantages, as power tool batteries can be designed to deliver high power output and withstand demanding conditions, making them a robust and reliable power source. Thanks to the portability of power tool batteries, these chargers can power a wide variety of devices—from small electronics such as smartphones and laptops to larger AC appliances and tools—without requiring access to a conventional electrical outlet.This ensures that the connected electrical devices can be powered even in remote workplaces with limited or no access to the power grid.

[0005] Furthermore, the battery chargers described here allow users to charge one battery while simultaneously using another to power connected electrical devices. This dual functionality offers significant technical advantages, as it ensures a continuous power supply to the connected devices while the batteries are charging. This capability guarantees a constant power supply for immediate use, while simultaneously ensuring that the batteries remain charged and ready for future operation, thereby improving overall operational efficiency by minimizing or eliminating downtime for both the connected electrical devices and the batteries.

[0006] Furthermore, the battery chargers described here can offer additional technical advantages by avoiding parallel or series operation of the batteries. Typically, operating batteries in parallel or series configurations can require complex circuitry to balance the voltage and / or current of the batteries. By employing a sequential charging and / or discharging approach, the battery chargers described here allow the use of simplified control circuitry, which can reduce the overall complexity and manufacturing costs of the battery chargers.

[0007] In some aspects, the techniques described here relate to a multi-battery charger, comprising: a plurality of battery interfaces configured to detachably receive a plurality of batteries; a charging circuit electrically connected to the plurality of battery interfaces; a current output; a discharging circuit electrically connected between the plurality of battery interfaces and the current output; and an electronic processor electrically connected to the charging circuit and the discharging circuit and configured to, when a first battery and a second battery are detachably received in the plurality of battery interfaces and a first condition is met, to charge the first battery using the charging circuit and to discharge the second battery using the discharging circuit.

[0008] In some aspects, the techniques described here refer to a multi-battery charger, where the first condition includes a requirement that the charging circuit is connected to an external power source.

[0009] In some aspects, the techniques described here refer to a multi-battery charger, where the discharge circuit also includes an AC output circuit and a DC output circuit.

[0010] In some aspects, the techniques described here relate to a multi-battery charger in which the electronic processor is configured to disconnect the AC output circuit from the second battery when it is determined that the first condition is met.

[0011] In some aspects, the techniques described here relate to a multi-battery charger, in which the electronic processor is also configured to determine a charge level of the second battery while the second battery is being discharged; and in response to the charge level of the second battery falling below a threshold, to stop discharging the second battery using the discharge circuit, to start charging the second battery using the charge circuit, and to start discharging the first battery using the discharge circuit.

[0012] In some aspects, the techniques described here refer to a multi-battery charger where the electronic processor is set up to charge the first battery and the second battery sequentially.

[0013] In some aspects, the techniques described here refer to a multi-battery charger in which the electronic processor is set up to discharge the first battery and the second battery sequentially.

[0014] In some aspects, the techniques described here relate to a multi-battery charger, wherein the multi-battery charger also includes a DC output port electrically connected to the discharge circuit; and the electronic processor is further configured to determine a charge level of the second battery while the second battery is being discharged, and to deactivate the DC output port when it is determined that the charge level of the second battery is below a threshold.

[0015] In some aspects, the techniques described here relate to a multi-battery charger, in which the electronic processor is also configured to stop the discharge of the second battery using the discharge circuit and to begin discharging the first battery using the discharge circuit in response to the detection of an error condition associated with the second battery.

[0016] In some aspects, the techniques described here relate to a multi-battery charger, in which the electronic processor is also configured to stop charging the first battery using the charging circuit in response to the detection of an error condition associated with the first battery.

[0017] In some aspects, the techniques described here relate to a method for operating a multi-battery charger, comprising: determining that a first condition is satisfied; and in response to being determined that the first condition is satisfied, charging a first battery, which has been detachably received in a first battery interface, using a charging circuit electrically connected to the first battery interface and a second battery interface, and discharging a second battery, which has been detachably received in the second battery interface, using a discharging circuit electrically connected to the first battery interface and the second battery interface.

[0018] In some aspects, the techniques described here refer to a procedure where the first condition involves determining that the charging circuit is connected to an external power source.

[0019] In some aspects, the techniques described here refer to a method in which the discharge circuit also includes an AC output circuit and a DC output circuit.

[0020] In some aspects, the techniques described here refer to a procedure, further encompassing the disconnection of the AC output circuit from the second battery in response to determining that the first condition is met.

[0021] In some aspects, the techniques described here refer to a procedure that also includes: determining that the charge level of the second battery is below a threshold during the discharge of the second battery; and in response to determining that the charge level of the second battery is below the threshold during the discharge of the second battery, stopping the discharge of the second battery using the discharge circuit, charging the second battery using the charge circuit, and discharging the first battery using the discharge circuit.

[0022] In some aspects, the techniques described here refer to a procedure, furthermore encompassing the sequential charging of the first battery and the second battery.

[0023] In some aspects, the techniques described here refer to a procedure, furthermore encompassing the sequential discharge of the first battery and the second battery.

[0024] In some aspects, the techniques described here relate to a procedure, further comprising determining that a charge level of the second battery is below a threshold during the discharge of the second battery; and deactivating a DC connection electrically linked to the discharge circuit in response to determining that the charge level of the second battery is below the threshold.

[0025] In some aspects, the techniques described here refer to a procedure, furthermore comprehensive, in response to the detection of a fault condition associated with the second battery, stopping the discharge of the second battery using the discharge circuit; and discharging the first battery using the discharge circuit.

[0026] In some aspects, the techniques described here refer to a procedure, furthermore comprehensive, in response to the detection of a fault condition associated with the first battery, stopping the charging of the first battery using the charging circuit.

[0027] Before any embodiments are explained in detail, it should be noted that the application of these embodiments is not limited to the design details and component arrangements listed in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The embodiments can also be implemented and practiced in other ways. Furthermore, it is understood that the phraseology and terminology used here serve descriptive purposes and should not be considered restrictive. The use of "including," "comprising," or "with" and their variations is intended to encompass the elements listed below and their equivalents, as well as additional elements.Unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "attached", "connected", "held" and "coupled" and their variants are used in the broadest sense and include both direct and indirect attachments, connections, supports and couplings.

[0028] Furthermore, it is understood that embodiments may include hardware, software, and electronic components or modules, which, for illustrative purposes, may be presented and described as if the majority of the components were implemented exclusively in hardware. However, a person skilled in the art will recognize upon reading this detailed description that, in at least one embodiment, the electronically based aspects may be implemented in software (for example, stored on a non-transient, computer-readable medium) that can be executed by one or more processing units, such as a microprocessor and / or application-specific integrated circuits (“ASICs”).It should therefore be noted that a variety of hardware- and software-based devices, as well as a variety of different design elements, can be used to implement the embodiments. For example, the "servers," "computer devices," "control units," "processors," etc., described in the document may include one or more processing units, one or more modules for computer-readable media, one or more input / output interfaces, and various connections (such as a system bus) that link the components together.

[0029] Relative terms such as "approximately," "about," "essentially," etc., used in connection with a quantity or condition, are understood by those skilled in the art to include the stated value and to have the meaning given by the context (for example, the term includes at least the degree of error associated with the accuracy of the measurement, the tolerances associated with the stated value [e.g., manufacturing, installation, use, etc.], etc.). Such terminology should also be regarded as a disclosure of the range defined by the absolute values ​​of the two endpoints. For example, the expression "from about 2 to about 4" also indicates the range "from 2 to 4." Relative terminology may refer to plus or minus a percentage (e.g., 1%, 5%, 10%) of a stated value.

[0030] It is understood that, although certain drawings depict hardware and software in specific devices, these representations are for illustrative purposes only. Functions described here as being performed by a single component may be performed by multiple components in a distributed manner. Likewise, functions performed by multiple components may be consolidated and performed by a single component. In some embodiments, the components shown may be combined or separated into separate software, firmware, and / or hardware. For example, instead of being housed in and executed by a single electronic processor, logic and processing may be distributed across multiple electronic processors.Regardless of how they are combined or distributed, the hardware and software components may reside on the same computer device or be distributed across different computer devices interconnected by one or more networks or other suitable communication links. Similarly, a component performing one function may also perform additional functions not described here. A device or structure that is “configured” in a certain way is at least configured in that way, but may also be configured in a way not explicitly stated.

[0031] Further aspects of the embodiments become clear through consideration of the detailed description and the accompanying drawings. Brief description of the drawings Fig.Figure 1 is a perspective view of a multi-battery charger according to some examples. Fig. Figure 2 is a schematic representation of the multi-battery charger made of Fig. 1 according to some examples. Fig. 3 is a block diagram of the multi-battery charger from Fig. 1 according to some examples. Fig. Figures 4 to 6 are flowcharts illustrating an example process for controlling the operation of the multi-battery charger. Fig. 1. Illustrate with some examples.

[0032] Reference symbols can be reused in the drawings to identify similar and / or identical elements. Detailed description

[0033] Fig.Figure 1 shows an example of a multi-battery charger 100. The multi-battery charger 100 comprises a charger housing 105, a plurality of battery interfaces 110 configured to detachably receive a plurality of batteries 115, and a user interface 120. The charger housing 105 comprises a central wall 125 and two base sections 130 extending from the central wall 125 in opposite directions. The charger housing 105 also includes a handle 160 provided on an upper section of the central wall 125. A first battery interface 110A is provided on a first side of the central wall 125 (for example, on a first side of the charger housing 105), and a second battery interface 110B is provided on a second side of the central wall 125 (for example, on a second side of the charger housing 105).The first battery interface 110A is designed to accept a first battery 115A in a removable (e.g., sliding) manner, and the second battery interface 110B is designed to accept a second battery 115B in a removable (e.g., sliding) manner. Each of the multiple battery interfaces 110 includes a terminal block with connections (e.g., power connections and communication connections) for connecting to the corresponding battery terminal blocks of the batteries 115.

[0034] The 115 batteries, for example, are power tool batteries used to operate cordless power tools. In some cases, the 115 batteries are lithium-ion power tool batteries with a nominal voltage of 18 volts. In other cases, the 115 batteries may have a different nominal voltage (e.g., 12 volts, 36 volts, 72 volts, etc.) and a different chemistry (e.g., nickel-based).

[0035] The user interface 120 is provided on a side surface of the housing 105 at a base of the central wall 125 on one side next to the first side and the second side of the central wall 125, as shown in Fig. Figure 1 shows the user interface 120 comprising a display device 135, an AC outlet 140, an AC enable button 145, a variety of DC outlets 150, and a DC enable button 155. The display device 135 is, for example, an LCD display device, an LED display device, an E-Ink display device, or the like. The display device 135 can provide information about the status of the multi-battery charger 100. For example, the display device 135 can show a charge level for the batteries 115, the status of the outlets, and the like. The AC enable button 145 is, for example, a push button that can be used to activate and deactivate the AC outlet 140. While in Fig.Where 1 a single AC outlet 140 is shown, other examples of the multi-battery charger 100 may include any number of AC outlets 140.

[0036] In the example shown, the plurality of DC outlets 150 comprises three DC outlets: a first DC outlet 150A, a second DC outlet 150B, and a third DC outlet 150C. The first DC outlet 150A is a first-type DC outlet, for example, a Universal Serial Bus C (USB-C) Power Delivery (PD) outlet, configured to deliver a maximum output power of approximately 100 watts. The second DC outlet 150B and the third DC outlet 150C are second-type DC outlets, for example, a Universal Serial Bus C (USB-C) outlet, configured to deliver a maximum output power of approximately 15 watts. While in Fig.While three DC outlets from 150A to 150C are shown in Figure 1, other examples for the multi-battery charger 100 can include any number (and any combination of types) of DC outlets 150. The DC activation button 155, for example, is a push-button switch that can be used to activate and deactivate the DC outlets 150.

[0037] Fig.Figure 2 is a schematic representation of the multi-battery charger 100, showing an example configuration. The multi-battery charger 100 comprises a power input 200, a charging circuit 210, a DC-AC converter 220, a DC-DC converter 230, and a switching control module 240. The power input 200 includes, for example, a mains cable that can be connected to a wall outlet to draw power (e.g., external AC power) from a mains power supply or a generator. The power input 200 is electrically connected to the charging circuit 210, which in turn is electrically connected to the battery 115A and the battery 115B. The charging circuit 210 includes a battery detection module 250, which is configured to detect whether a battery 115 (such as battery 115A or battery 115B) is inserted into a corresponding battery interface 110.The charging circuit 210 also includes switches 260 (such as charge field transistors [FETs]) that selectively connect the charging circuit 210 to the battery interfaces 110 in order to charge the batteries 115 received in the battery interfaces 110.

[0038] The charging circuit 210 can convert alternating current from the power input 200 into direct current and supply direct current to the batteries 115. For example, the charging circuit 210 closes the switches 260 to charge the batteries 115 sequentially. To charge battery 115A, the charging circuit 210 can close switch 260A and open switch 260B, thereby closing the circuit between the power input 200, the charging circuit 210, and battery 115A, while breaking the circuit between the power input 200, the charging circuit 210, and battery 115B. To charge battery 115B, the charging circuit can close switch 260A and open switch 260B, thus interrupting the circuit between power input 200, charging circuit 210 and battery 115A, while opening the circuit between power input 200, charging circuit 210 and battery 115B.

[0039] Electrical current can be supplied from the batteries 115 via the DC-AC converter 220 and / or the DC-DC converter 230 to the AC outlet 140 and / or the DC outlets 150. The DC-AC converter 220 can be electrically connected to the AC outlet 140, and the DC-DC converter 230 can be electrically connected to the DC outlet 150. The battery 115A can be electrically connected to the DC-AC converter 220, with a switch 270A arranged in series between the battery 115A and the DC-AC converter 220. The battery 115B can be electrically connected to the DC-AC converter 220, with a switch 270B arranged in series between the battery 115B and the DC-AC converter 220. The 115A battery can be electrically connected to the 230A DC-DC converter, with a 280A switch arranged in series between the 115A battery and the 230A DC-DC converter.The battery 115B can be electrically connected to the DC-DC converter 230, with a switch 280B arranged in series between the battery 115B and the DC-DC converter 230.

[0040] The DC-AC converter 220, for example, is an inverter circuit comprising a power switching network in an inverter bridge configuration (3-bridge configuration). The DC-AC converter 220 converts direct current from the batteries 115, which are connected to the battery interfaces 110, into alternating current, which is supplied at the AC outlet 140. The DC-AC converter 220 is configured to deliver an AC power output of approximately 400 watts. Discharge switches 270 selectively couple the battery interfaces 110 electrically to the DC-AC converter 220. The DC-DC converter 230 converts direct current from the batteries 115 at a first voltage into direct current, which is supplied to the DC outlets 150 at a second voltage. The DC-DC converter 230 is designed to deliver approximately 100 watts of power from the first DC output 150A and approximately 15 watts of power from each of the second DC output 150B and the third DC output 150C.Switches 270 can be FETs that selectively couple the battery interfaces 110 to the DC-AC converter 220. Switches 280 can be FETs that selectively couple the battery interfaces 110 electrically to the DC-DC converter 230.

[0041] A switch control module 240 is connected to the discharge switches 270 and the switches 280 and is configured to control them, as explained in more detail below. The switch control module 240 is implemented by the control unit 300, as explained in more detail below. In various configurations, the switch control module 240 is connected to the switches 260, the switches 270, and / or the switches 280 and controls them to connect the batteries 115A and 115B sequentially to the charging circuit 210, in order to charge the batteries 115A and 115B sequentially such that only one battery 115 is being charged at any given time.In some examples, the switching control module 240 is connected to the switches 260, the switches 270 and / or the switches 280 and controls them to connect the batteries 115A and 115B sequentially to the AC output 140 (via the DC-AC converter 220) and / or the DC output 150 (via the DC-DC converter 230), so that at a given time only one battery 115 is discharged (powering the AC output 140 and / or the DC outputs 150).

[0042] When AC outlet 140 is activated (for example, by the user pressing the AC enable button 145), the switching control module 240 closes the switches 270 to connect the DC-AC converter 220 to the batteries 115. When AC outlet 140 is deactivated (for example, by the user pressing the AC enable button 145), the switching control module 240 opens the switches 270 to disconnect the DC-AC converter 220 from the battery 115. When DC outlets 150 are activated (for example, by the user pressing the DC activation button 155), the switching control module 240 closes the switches 280 to connect the DC-DC converter 230 to the batteries 115. When the DC outputs 150 are activated (for example, by the user pressing the DC enable button 155), the switching control module 240 opens the switches 280 to disconnect the DC-DC converter 230 from the battery 115.

[0043] Fig.Figure 3 is a schematic representation of a control unit 300 of the multi-battery charger 100. The control unit 300 is electrically and / or communicatively connected to a variety of modules or components of the multi-battery charger 100. For example, the control unit 300 shown is connected to the user interface 120, the charging circuit 210, the DC-AC converter 220, the DC-DC converter 230, the charging switches 260, the discharging switches 270, and the discharging switches 280. The control unit 300 provides control signals for controlling the user interface 120, the charging circuit 210, the DC-AC converter 220, the DC-DC converter 230, the charging switches 260, the discharging switches 270, and the discharging switches 280.

[0044] The control units 300 comprise combinations of hardware and software that, among other things, serve to control the operation of the multi-battery charger 100. For example, the control unit 300 includes, among other things, a processing unit 305 (for example, a microprocessor, a microcontroller, an electronic processor, an electronic control unit, or another suitable programmable device), a memory 310, input units 315, and output units 320. The processing unit 305 includes, among other things, a control unit 325, an arithmetic logic unit (“ALU”) 330, and a plurality of registers 335 (in Fig.3 (represented as a group of registers) and is implemented using a known computer architecture (for example, a modified Harvard architecture, a von Neumann architecture, etc.). The processing unit 305, the memory 310, the input units 315, and the output units 320, as well as the various modules or circuits connected to the control unit 300, are connected by one or more control and / or data buses (for example, a common bus 340). The control and / or data buses are, for illustrative purposes, essentially represented as Fig. 3 shown. Although the control unit 300 in Fig.Although control unit 3 is represented as a single control unit, control unit 300 could also comprise multiple control units configured to work together to achieve a desired level of control for the multi-battery charger 100. Therefore, all control functions and operations described here with respect to control unit 300 could also be performed by two or more control units operating in a distributed manner.

[0045] Memory 310 is a non-volatile, computer-readable medium and comprises, for example, a program memory area and a data memory area. The program memory area and the data memory area can include combinations of different types of memory, such as read-only memory (“ROM”), random-access memory (“RAM”) (for example, dynamic RAM (“DRAM”), synchronous DRAM (“SDRAM”), etc.), electrically erasable programmable ROM (“EEPROM”), flash memory, a hard disk, an SD card, or other suitable magnetic, optical, physical, or electronic storage devices.The processing unit 305 is connected to the memory 310 and configured to execute software instructions that may be stored in RAM of memory 310 (for example, during execution), ROM of memory 310 (for example, on an substantially permanent basis), or another non-transient, computer-readable medium, such as another memory or a disk. The software included in the multi-battery charger 100 and the control unit 300 may be stored in the memory 310 of the control unit 300. The software includes, for example, firmware, one or more applications, program data, filters, rules, one or more program modules, and other executable instructions. The control unit 300 is configured to retrieve and execute, among other things, instructions relating to the control operations and procedures described herein from memory 310.In other embodiments, the control unit comprises 300 additional, fewer, or different components.

[0046] The control unit 300 controls the charging switches 260 to charge the batteries 115 connected to the battery interfaces 110. The control unit 300 charges the batteries 115 connected to the battery interfaces 110 sequentially, so that only one battery 115 is charged at a time. Additionally, the control unit 300 operates the batteries 115 independently of each other, i.e., neither in series nor in parallel. Rather, the control unit 300 can operate the batteries sequentially, as shown in the diagram. Fig.4 to 6 and the table below describe this in more detail. While one battery 115 connected to a battery interface 110 is being charged, the other battery 115 connected to a different battery interface 110 can be used to supply power to the AC outlet 140 and / or the DC outlets 150 (referred to, for example, as a "pseudo-pass"). The control unit 300 uses the discharge switches 270 to connect the uncharged battery 115 to the DC-AC converter and the discharge switches 280 to connect the uncharged battery 115 to the DC-DC converter. In one example, if the multi-battery charger 100 is connected (for example, if the power input 200 is connected to an external AC power source), the control unit 300 can disable the AC outlet 140 because the user already has an AC power outlet or other external AC power source available.

[0047] Fig.Figures 4 to 6 are flowcharts illustrating an example procedure 400 for controlling the operation of the multi-battery charger 100 according to some examples. Although the operations of procedure 400 are illustrated with reference to certain examples described here, procedure 400 can be performed in any suitable environment. The operations are described in Fig.Steps 4 to 6 are shown once each in a specific order, although the processes can be rearranged and / or repeated as desired and needed. For example, different processes can be executed in parallel if appropriate. In example process 400, the control unit 300 monitors the charging circuit 210 to determine whether the multi-battery charger 100 is receiving AC current via the current input 200 (in block 402). In example process 400, the control unit 300 monitors sensors at the first battery interface 110A and / or the battery detection module 250 to determine whether the first battery 115A is connected to the multi-battery charger 100 (in step 404). The control unit 300 can also monitor the sensors and / or the battery detection module 250 to determine the charge level of battery 115A.

[0048] In example process 400, the control unit 300 monitors sensors at the second battery interface 110B and / or the battery detection module 250 to determine whether the second battery 115B is connected to the multi-battery charger 100 (in step 406). The control unit 300 can also monitor the sensors and / or the battery detection module 250 to determine the charge level of battery 115B. In example process 400, the control unit 300 determines whether both batteries 115A and 115B are being detected (in decision block 408). The detection of both batteries 115A and 115B can mean that both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to the multi-battery charger 100 and are available for sequential charging and / or sequential discharging (for example, to power the AC outlet 140 and / or the DC outlets 150).

[0049] In response to the finding that both batteries 115A and 115B are not detected (“NO” in decision block 408), the control unit 300 determines whether an AC input is detected at the charging circuit 210 (in decision block 410). If an AC input is detected at the charging circuit 210, this could mean that the current input 200 is connected to an external AC power source and that external AC power is available to charge the connected batteries 115. In response to the finding that no AC input is detected (“NO” in decision block 410), the control unit 300 determines whether the charge level of the connected battery 115 is above a first threshold (in decision block 412).If the charge level of the connected battery 115 is above the first threshold, this may mean that the connected battery 115 is sufficiently charged and available to supply power to the AC outlet 140 and / or the DC outlets 150, while a charge level of the connected battery 115 below the first threshold may mean that the connected battery 115 is not sufficiently charged and is not available to supply power to the AC outlet and / or the DC outlets 150.

[0050] In response to the determination that the charge level of the connected battery 115 is above the first threshold (“YES” in decision block 412), the control unit 300 actuates switches 260, 270, and / or 280 to connect the connected battery 115 to the DC-AC converter 220 and / or the DC-DC converter 230 to power the AC output 140 and / or the DC outputs 150 (in block 414). The control unit 300 can actuate switches 260, 270, and / or 280 to disconnect the connected battery 115 from the charging circuit 210. The control unit 300 continues to monitor the input AC current in block 402. In response to the control unit's determination that the charge level of the connected battery is not above the first threshold ("NO" in decision block 412), the control unit 300 continues to monitor the input AC current in block 402.In response to the determination that input AC current is being detected (“YES” in decision block 410), the control unit 300 determines whether the charge level of the connected battery 115 is above a second threshold (in decision block 416). A charge level of the connected battery 115 above the second threshold can indicate that the connected battery 115 is sufficiently or fully charged, or that no charging is required.

[0051] In response to the determination that the charge level of the connected battery 115 is not above the second threshold ("NO" in decision block 416), the control unit 300 operates switches 260, 270, and / or 280 to connect battery 115 to the charging circuit 210 and charges battery 115 (in block 418). The control unit 300 can operate switches 260, 270, and / or 280 to disconnect the connected battery 115 from the DC-AC converter 220 and the DC-DC converter 230. The control unit 300 continues to monitor the AC input power in block 402. In response to the control unit determining that the charge level of the connected battery is above the second threshold ("YES" in decision block 416), the control unit 300 continues to monitor the AC input power in block 402.In response to the control unit 300 determining that both batteries 115A and 115B are being detected ("YES" in decision block 408), the control unit 300 determines whether AC input is being detected (in decision block 420). In response to the determination that no AC input is being detected ("NO" in decision block 420), the control unit 300 determines whether the charge level of the first battery 115A is greater than the first threshold (in decision block 422). If the charge level of the first battery 115A is greater than the first threshold, this may mean that the first battery 115A is available to power the AC outlet 140 and / or the DC outlets 150, whereas a charge level of the first battery 115A that is not greater than the first threshold may indicate that the first battery 115A is not available to power the AC outlet 140 and / or the DC outlets 150.

[0052] In response to the determination that the charge level of the first battery 115A is greater than the first threshold (“YES” in decision block 422), the control unit 300 actuates switches 260, 270, and / or 280 to connect the first battery 115A to the DC-AC converter 220 to power the AC outlet 140 (in block 424). The control unit 300 can actuate switches 260, 270, and / or 280 to disconnect the first battery 115A from the charging circuit 210 and to disconnect the second battery from the DC-AC converter 220 and the DC-DC converter 230. In the exemplary process 400, the control unit 300 actuates switches 260, 270 and / or 280 to connect the first battery 115A to the DC-DC converter 230 to supply power to the DC outputs 150 (in block 426). The control unit 300 also monitors the incoming AC current in block 402.

[0053] In response to the determination that the charge level of the first battery 115A is not above the first threshold (“NO” in decision block 422), the control unit 300 determines whether the charge level of the second battery 115B is greater than the first threshold (in decision block 428). If the charge level of the second battery 115B is above the first threshold, this may mean that the second battery 115B is available to power the AC outlet 140 and / or the DC outlets 150, whereas a charge level of the second battery 115B that is not greater than the first threshold may indicate that the second battery 115B is not available to power the AC outlet 140 and / or the DC outlets 150.

[0054] In response to the control unit determining that the charge level of the second battery 115B is greater than the first threshold ("YES" in decision block 428), the control unit 300 actuates switches 260, 270, and / or 280 to connect the second battery 115B to the DC-AC converter 220 and to supply power to the AC outlet 140 (in block 430). The control unit 300 can actuate switches 260, 270, and / or 280 to disconnect the second battery 115B from the charging circuit 210 and to disconnect the first battery 115B from the DC-AC converter 220 and the DC-DC converter 230. In the exemplary process 400, the control unit 300 actuates switches 260, 270 and / or 280 to connect the second battery 115B to the DC-DC converter 230 to power the DC outputs 150 (in block 432). The control unit 300 continues monitoring the input AC current in block 402.In response to the control unit determining that the charge level of the second battery 115B is not above the second threshold (“NO” in decision block 428), the control unit 300 continues monitoring the input AC current in block 402.

[0055] In response to the determination that input AC current is being detected (“YES” in decision block 420), the control unit 300 determines whether the charge level of the first battery 115A is greater than the second threshold (in decision block 434). If the charge level of the first battery 115A is greater than the second threshold, this may mean that the first battery 115A is charged, while a charge level of the first battery 115A that is not greater than the second threshold may mean that the first battery 115A needs to be charged. In response to the determination that the charge level of the first battery 115A is not greater than the second threshold (“NO” in decision block 434), the control unit 300 activates switches 260, 270 and / or 280 to connect the first battery 115A to the charging circuit 210 and charge the first battery 115A (in block 436).The control unit 300 can actuate switches 260, 270, and / or 280 to disconnect the first battery 115A from the DC-AC converter 220 and the DC-DC converter 230, and to disconnect the second battery 115B from the charging circuit 210. In the example operation 400, the control unit 300 actuates switches 260, 270, and / or 280 to connect the second battery 115B to the DC-DC converter 230 to power the DC outputs 150 (in block 438). The control unit 300 continues to monitor the input AC current in block 402.

[0056] In response to the determination that the charge level of the first battery 115A is greater than the second threshold (“YES” in decision block 434), the control unit 300 determines whether the charge level of the second battery 115B is greater than the second threshold (in decision block 440). If the charge level of the second battery 115B is greater than the second threshold, this may mean that the second battery 115B is charged, while a charge level of the second battery 115B that is not greater than the second threshold may mean that the second battery 115B needs to be charged. In response to the determination that the charge level of the second battery 115B is not greater than the second threshold (“NO” in decision block 440), the control unit 300 activates switches 260, 270 and / or 280 to connect the second battery 115B to the charging circuit 210 and charge the second battery 115B (in block 442).The control unit 300 can actuate switches 260, 270, and / or 280 to disconnect the second battery 115B from the DC-AC converter 220 and the DC-DC converter 230, and to disconnect the first battery 115A from the charging circuit 210. In the exemplary operation 400, the control unit 300 actuates switches 260, 270, and / or 280 to connect the first battery 115A to the DC-DC converter 230 to power the DC outputs 150 (in block 444). The control unit 300 continues to monitor the input AC current in block 402. In response to the control unit determining that the charge level of the second battery 115B is greater than the second threshold (“YES” in decision block 440), the control unit 300 continues to monitor the input AC current in block 402.

[0057] In various versions, the control unit 300 controls the switches 260, the switches 270 and the switches 280 according to the state transitions described in Table 1: Table 1 Power input 200 Battery 115A Battery 115B AC outlet 140 DC outlets 150 the change Power input 200 Battery 115A Battery 115B AC outlet 140 DC outlets_ 150 No DC outlets 150 Wait No Yes Connect power input 200 Yes DC outlets 150 Load No Yes Wait DC outlets 150 Load DC outlets 150 Unloading Wait Yes DC outlets 150 Load Yes Wait Unloading Load DC outlets 150 Yes DC outlets 150 Load No Yes Power input 200 No DC outlets 150 Wait No Yes Load DC outlets 150 separate Wait DC outlets 150 DC outlets 150 Load Yes Unloading Wait Yes Load DC outlets 150 Wait Unloading Yes Load No No Yes Insert battery Yes Load DC outlets 150 No Yes No Load DC outlets 150 Load Load No Yes Load DC outlets 150 Yes No Load DC outlets 150 Load Yes Load DC outlets_150 No Yes remote discharged battery Yes Load No No Yes DC outlets 150 Load No Load Load DC outlets 150 Yes Load No Yes DC outlets 150 Load No Load Yes Load DC outlets 150 No Yes remote discharged battery Yes No DC outlets 150 No Yes DC outlets 150 Load DC outlets 150 No Load DC outlets 150 Yes No DC outlets 150 Yes DC outlets 150 Load DC outlets 150 No Yes Load DC outlets 150 No Yes Battery charged / charging error Yes Wait DC outlets 150 No Yes DC outlets 150 Load DC outlets 150 Wait Load DC outlets 150 Yes Wait DC outlets 150 Yes DC outlets 150 Load DC outlets 150 Wait Yes Load DC outlets 150 No Yes Low battery / discharge error Yes Load Wait No Yes DC outlets 150 Load Wait Load Load DC outlets 150 Yes Load Wait Yes DC outlets 150 Load Wait Load Yes Wait DC outlets 150 No Yes Low battery / discharge error Yes DC outlets 150 Load No Yes DC outlets 150 Wait Load DC outlets 150 Wait DC outlets 150 Yes DC outlets 150 Load Yes DC outlets 150 Wait Load DC outlets 150 Yes Load Wait No Yes Battery charged / charging error Yes DC outlets 150 Load No Yes Wait Load Load DC outlets 150 Load Wait Yes DC outlets 150 Load Yes Wait Load Load DC outlets 150 Yes Load Wait No No DC outlets 150 activated Yes Load DC outlets 150 No Yes Wait Load DC outlets 150 Load Load Wait Yes Load DC outlets 150 Yes Wait Load DC outputs. 150 Load Yes Load DC outlets 150 No Yes DC outlets 150 disabled Yes Load Wait No No DC outlets 150 Load Wait Load Load DC outlets 150 Yes Load Wait Yes DC outlets 150 Load Wait Load Yes Load DC outlets 150 No Yes Both batteries were weak Yes Load Wait No No DC outlets 150 Load Wait Load Load DC outlets 150 Yes Load Wait Yes DC outlets 150 Load Wait Load

[0058] Table 1 shows examples of logical conditions according to which the control unit 300 triggers new states for switches 260, 270, and / or 280 in accordance with changes in the conditions at the multi-battery charger 100. In the following examples, batteries 115A and 115B are charged and discharged sequentially (i.e., they supply power to the outlets), so that at any given time, only one battery 115 is being charged and only one battery 115 is being discharged. A battery 115 that is being charged can be connected to the charging circuit 210 and disconnected from the DC-AC converter 220 and the DC-DC converter 230. A battery that is being discharged can be connected via the DC-AC converter 220 to the AC outlet 140 and / or via the DC-DC converter 230 to the DC outlets 150 and disconnected from the charging circuit 210.

[0059] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially not connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150, while battery 115B waits to be charged or to supply power. In response to the power input 200 being connected to external AC power, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A continues to supply power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B is being charged.

[0060] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially not connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A waits to be charged or to supply power, while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150. In response to the power output 200 being connected to external AC power, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A is charged, while battery 115B continues to supply power to the DC outputs 150.

[0061] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially not connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A supplies power to the AC output 140 and the DC outputs 150, while battery 115B waits to be charged or to supply power. In response to the power input 200 being connected to external AC power, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A is disconnected from AC output 140, but continues to supply power to the DC outputs 150, while battery 115B is charged.

[0062] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially not connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A waits to be charged or to supply power, while battery 115B supplies power to AC output 140 and DC outputs 150. In response to the power input 200 being connected to external AC power, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A is charged, while battery 115B is disconnected from AC output 140 but continues to supply power to DC outputs 150.

[0063] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B is being charged. In response to the power input 200 being disconnected from the external AC power, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A continues to supply power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B waits to supply power or be charged.

[0064] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A is charging, while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150. In response to the power input 200 being disconnected from the external AC power, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A waits to be powered or charged, while battery 115B continues to supply power to the DC outputs 150.

[0065] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B is being charged. When power input 200 is disconnected from the external AC power, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A supplies power to AC output 140 and the DC outputs 150, while battery 115B waits to supply power or be charged.

[0066] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A is charging, while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150. In response to the power input 200 being disconnected from the external AC power, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A waits to be powered or charged, while battery 115B supplies power to the AC output 140 and the DC outputs 150.

[0067] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, the battery 115A is connected to the battery interface 110A, the battery 115B is not connected to the battery interface 110B, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, the battery 115A is charged. In response to the battery 115B being connected to the battery interface 110B, the control unit 300 controls the switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that the battery 115A continues to charge while the battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150.

[0068] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, battery 115A is not connected to battery interface 110A, battery 115B is connected to battery interface 110B, AC output 140 is deactivated, and DC outputs 150 are activated. Battery 115B is initially charged. As a result of battery 115A being connected to battery interface 110A, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A supplies power to DC outputs 150 while battery 115B continues to charge.

[0069] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, the battery 115A is connected to the battery interface 110A, the battery 115B is not connected to the battery interface 110B, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, the battery 115A is charged. In response to the battery 115B being connected to the battery interface 110B, the control unit 300 controls the switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that the battery 115A continues to be charged while the battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150.

[0070] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, the battery 115A is not connected to the battery interface 110B, the battery 115B is connected to the battery interface 110B, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, the battery 115B is charged. In response to the battery 115A being connected to the battery interface 110A, the control unit 300 controls the switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that the battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150 while the battery 115B is being charged.

[0071] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A is charged while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150. Upon removal of battery 115B (the discharging battery), the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A continues to be charged.

[0072] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B is being charged. In response to the removal of battery 115A (the discharging battery), the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115B continues to be charged.

[0073] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A is charged while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150. Upon removal of battery 115B (the discharging battery), the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 to continue charging battery 115A.

[0074] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B is being charged. Upon removal of battery 115A (the discharging battery), the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115B continues to be charged.

[0075] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A is charged while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150. Upon removal of battery 115A (the charging battery), the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115B continues to supply power to the DC outputs 150.

[0076] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B is being charged. Upon removal of battery 115B (the charging battery), the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A continues to supply power to the DC outputs 150.

[0077] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A is charged while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150. Upon removal of battery 115A (the charging battery), the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115B continues to supply power to the DC outputs 150.

[0078] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B is being charged. Upon removal of battery 115B (the charging battery), the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A continues to supply power to the DC outputs 150.

[0079] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A is charged while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150. Upon detecting that battery 115A (the charging battery) is being charged or that a charging error has occurred, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A waits until it can supply power or charge, while battery 115B continues to supply power to the DC outputs 150.

[0080] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B is being charged. Upon detecting that battery 115B (the charging battery) is charged or that a charging error has occurred, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A continues to supply power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B waits to supply power or charge.

[0081] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A charges while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150. Upon detecting that battery 115A (the charging battery) is charged or that a charging error has occurred, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A waits to be charged or to complete its charging process, while battery 115B continues to supply power to the DC outputs 150.

[0082] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B is being charged. Upon detecting that battery 115B (the charging battery) is charged or that a charging error has occurred, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A continues to supply power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B waits to supply power or begin charging.

[0083] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A charges while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150. Upon detecting that battery 115B (the discharging battery) is at a low charge level or that a discharge error has occurred, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A continues to charge while battery 115B waits to supply power or charge.

[0084] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B is being charged. Upon detecting that battery 115A (the discharging battery) is at a low charge level or that a discharge error has occurred, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A waits to be powered or charged while battery 115B continues to charge.

[0085] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A charges while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150. Upon detecting that battery 115B (the discharging battery) is at a low charge level or that a discharge error has occurred, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A continues to charge while battery 115B waits to supply power or charge.

[0086] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B is being charged. Upon detecting that battery 115A (the discharging battery) is at a low charge level or that a discharge error has occurred, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A waits to be powered or charged while battery 115B continues to charge.

[0087] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A waits to be charged or discharged, while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150. Upon detecting that battery 115B (the discharging battery) is at a low charge level or that a discharge error has occurred, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B is being charged.

[0088] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150, while battery 115B waits to be charged or discharged. When battery 115A (the discharging battery) is detected at a low charge level or a discharge error occurs, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A is charged while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150.

[0089] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A waits to be charged or discharged, while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150. Upon detecting that battery 115B (the discharging battery) is at a low charge level or that a discharge error has occurred, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B is being charged.

[0090] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150, while battery 115B waits to be charged or discharged. Upon detecting that battery 115A (the discharging battery) is at a low charge level or that a discharge error has occurred, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A is charged while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150.

[0091] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A is charged while battery 115B waits to be charged or discharged. Upon detecting that battery 115A (the charging battery) is charged or that a charging error has occurred, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B is being charged.

[0092] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A waits to be charged or discharged while battery 115B is being charged. Upon detecting that battery 115B (the charging battery) is charged or that a charging error has occurred, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A is charged while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150.

[0093] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A is charged while battery 115B waits to be charged or discharged. Upon detecting that battery 115A (the charging battery) is charged or that a charging error has occurred, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B is being charged.

[0094] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A waits to be charged or discharged while battery 115B is being charged. Upon detecting that battery 115B (the charging battery) is charged or that a charging error has occurred, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A is charged while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150.

[0095] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are deactivated. Initially, battery 115A is charged while battery 115B waits to be charged or discharged. Upon activation of the DC outputs 150, the control unit 300 activates switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A continues charging while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150.

[0096] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are deactivated. Initially, battery 115A waits to be charged or discharged while battery 115B is being charged. Upon activation of the DC outputs 150, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B continues to be charged.

[0097] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are deactivated. Initially, battery 115A is charged while battery 115B waits to be charged or discharged. Upon activation of the DC outputs 150, the control unit 300 activates switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A continues charging while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150.

[0098] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are deactivated. Initially, battery 115A waits to be charged or discharged while battery 115B is being charged. Upon activation of the DC outputs 150, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B continues to be charged.

[0099] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A is charged while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150. Upon deactivation of the DC outputs 150, the control unit 300 activates switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A continues to charge while battery 115B is disconnected from the DC outputs 150 and awaits charging or discharging.

[0100] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B is being charged. In response to the deactivation of the DC outputs 150, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A is disconnected from the DC outputs 150 and awaits charging or discharging, while battery 115B continues to be charged.

[0101] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A is charged while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150. Upon deactivation of the DC outputs 150, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A continues to charge while battery 115B is disconnected from the DC outputs 150 and awaits charging or discharging.

[0102] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B is being charged. Upon deactivation of the DC outputs 150, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A is disconnected from the DC outputs 150 and awaits charging or discharging, while battery 115B continues to be charged.

[0103] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A is charged while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150. Upon detecting that both batteries 115A and 115B have a low charge level, the control unit 300 operates switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A continues to charge while battery 115B is disconnected from the DC outputs 150 and awaits charging or discharging.

[0104] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is deactivated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B is being charged. Upon detecting that both batteries 115A and 115B have a low charge level, the control unit 300 operates switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A is disconnected from the DC outputs 150 and awaits charging or discharging, while battery 115B continues to charge.

[0105] In various configurations, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A charges while battery 115B supplies power to the DC outputs 150. Upon detecting that both batteries 115A and 115B have a low charge level, the control unit 300 operates switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A continues to charge while battery 115B is disconnected from the DC outputs 150 and awaits charging or discharging.

[0106] In some examples, the power input 200 is initially connected to external AC power, both batteries 115A and 115B are connected to their respective battery interfaces 110, the AC output 140 is activated, and the DC outputs 150 are activated. Initially, battery 115A supplies power to the DC outputs 150 while battery 115B is being charged. Upon detecting that both batteries 115A and 115B have a low charge level, the control unit 300 controls switches 260, 270, and / or 280 so that battery 115A is disconnected from the DC outputs 150 and awaits charging or discharging, while battery 115B continues to be charged.

[0107] Thus, the embodiments described here include, among other things, a multi-battery charger with pseudo-passage. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

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

[0000] US 63 / 688.137

[0001] US 63 / 704.632

[0001]

Claims

[1] Multi-battery charger, comprising: a variety of battery interfaces that can detachably accommodate a variety of batteries; a charging circuit that is electrically connected to the multitude of battery interfaces; a power output; a discharge circuit that is electrically connected between the multitude of battery interfaces and the power output; and an electronic processor that is electrically connected to and configured for the charging and discharging circuits: if a first battery and a second battery are detachably inserted into the multitude of battery interfaces and a first condition is met, to charge the first battery using the charging circuit; and to discharge the second battery using the discharging circuit. [2] Multi-battery charger according to claim 1, wherein the first condition comprises a provision that the charging circuit is connected to an external power source. [3] Multi-battery charger according to claim 2, wherein the discharge circuit also comprises an AC output circuit and a DC output circuit. [4] Multi-battery charger according to claim 3, wherein the electronic processor is also configured to disconnect the AC output circuit from the second battery when it is determined that the first condition is met. [5] Multi-battery charger according to claim 1, wherein the electronic processor is also configured to, to determine the charge level of the second battery while the second battery is being discharged; and In response to the second battery's charge level falling below a threshold, the discharge of the second battery is terminated using the discharge circuit. to begin charging the second battery using the charging circuit and to begin discharging the first battery using the discharge circuit. [6] Multi-battery charger according to claim 1, wherein the electronic processor is also configured to charge the first battery and the second battery sequentially. [7] Multi-battery charger according to claim 1, wherein the electronic processor is configured to discharge the first battery and the second battery successively. [8] Multi-battery charger according to claim 1, wherein The multi-battery charger also includes a DC output connector that is electrically connected to the discharge circuit; and the electronic processor is also designed to to determine the charge level of the second battery while the second battery is being discharged, and to disable the DC output port in response to determining that the charge level of the second battery is below a threshold. [9] Multi-battery charger according to claim 1, wherein the electronic processor is also configured to respond to the detection of an error condition associated with the second battery. to stop the discharge of the second battery using the discharge circuit and to begin discharging the first battery using the discharge circuit. [10] Multi-battery charger according to claim 1, wherein the electronic processor is also configured to stop charging the first battery using the charging circuit in response to the detection of an error condition associated with the first battery. [11] Method for operating a multi-battery charger, comprising: Determine that a first condition is satisfied; and in response to the determination that the first condition is met, Charging a first battery, which is detachably held in a first battery interface, using a charging circuit that is electrically connected to the first battery interface and a second battery interface, and Discharging a second battery, which is detachably held in the second battery interface, using a discharge circuit that is electrically connected to the first battery interface and the second battery interface. [12] Method according to claim 11, wherein the first condition comprises a provision that the charging circuit is connected to an external power source. [13] Method according to claim 12, wherein the discharge circuit further comprises an AC output circuit and a DC output circuit. [14] Method according to claim 13, further comprising disconnecting the AC output circuit from the second battery in response to determining that the first condition is satisfied. [15] The method of claim 11, further comprising: Determine that the charge level of the second battery is below a threshold during the discharge of the second battery; and in response to the determination that the charge level of the second battery is below the threshold during the discharge of the second battery: Terminating the discharge of the second battery using the discharge circuit, Charging the second battery using the charging circuit and Discharging the first battery using the discharge circuit. [16] Method according to claim 11, further comprising sequentially charging the first battery and the second battery. [17] Method according to claim 11, further comprising the sequential discharge of the first battery and the second battery. [18] The method of claim 11, further comprising: Determine that the charge level of the second battery is below a threshold during the discharge of the second battery; and Disabling a DC connection electrically linked to the discharge circuit in response to the second battery's charge level being detected below the threshold. [19] Method according to claim 11, further comprising, in response to the detection of a fault condition associated with the second battery: Terminating the discharge of the second battery using the discharge circuit; and discharging the first battery using the discharge circuit. [20] Method according to claim 11, further comprising, in response to the detection of a fault condition associated with the first battery, terminating the charging of the first battery using the charging circuit.

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