Modular energy pallet

Abstract

This specification provides a flexible modular energy pallet (102). The modular energy pallet (102) includes AC outlets (536A, 536B) and DC outlets (562) that can be dynamically enabled for use in a variety of applications. The modular energy pallet (102) can be used in conjunction with other modular energy pallets (102) to provide variable power output for different applications.

Description

Background Art

[0001] This section is for introducing readers to various aspects of technologies that may be related to various aspects of the present disclosure described below. This discussion is considered to be helpful in showing readers the background circumstances and promoting a better understanding of various aspects of the present disclosure. Therefore, these descriptions should be understood to be read from the above perspective rather than as an admission of prior art.

[0002] Amusement parks and other entertainment facilities often utilize attraction components such as vehicles, floats, lighting displays, etc. that require energy to provide a desirable user experience. These attraction components may have significantly different power consumptions, and thus customized power solutions are required for each implementation. In some cases, large internal combustion generators can be used when a significant amount of power is required, but such generators are large, noisy, and difficult to maintain. Further, many attraction components are seasonal, and thus the customized power source is only used during the seasonal period when the attraction component is active. Therefore, in order to increase efficiency and reduce costs, this specification describes a modular energy pallet that enables reuse among various applications by having multiple outputs for both the power connection type and the power output. Further, the modular energy pallet can also integrate additional features such as a wireless access point, work lights, etc. that can be used throughout the attraction component, bringing new efficiency to the management of the attraction component.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] Some embodiments within the same scope as the subject matter of the original claims are summarized below. These embodiments do not limit the scope of the present disclosure but rather merely show an overview of some of the disclosed embodiments. In fact, the present disclosure can include various forms that may be similar to or different from the embodiments shown below.

[0004] This disclosure relates to energy supply in general. More specifically, this disclosure relates to modular energy pallets that are useful for supplying energy to and controlling amusement attractions. Specifically, the embodiments described herein provide flexible power output by enabling a linear in-series connection of connectable modular energy pallets to be adapted to various embodiments. Furthermore, these modular energy pallets may include additional features to assist in the management of amusement features, such as wireless access points for amusement attraction control, one or more work lights, and multiple switchable outlets, as part of various connector types. Thus, modular energy pallets provide great flexibility to one or more self-sustaining units.

[0005] These and other features, embodiments, and advantages of the present invention will be better understood by reading the following detailed description while referring to the attached drawings, which show the same elements with the same symbols throughout. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] This diagram illustrates a system that utilizes one or more modular energy pallets for various applications, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0007] [Figure 2] This is an isometric front view of a modular energy pallet with the top cover removed, illustrating various features of a modular energy pallet according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0008] [Figure 3A] This is an isometric rear view of a modular energy pallet with a cover attached, illustrating the features of a modular energy pallet according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0009] [Figure 3B] This is a front view of two modular energy pallets stacked to enhance energy supply, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0010] [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram of a modular energy pallet control and patch panel showing the input and output sections of a modular energy pallet according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0011] [Figure 5A] (Referred to as "Figure 5" in this specification, together with Figure 5B) This is a wiring diagram showing the connection of a 19-pin output version of a modular energy pallet according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] (In this specification, together with Figure 5A, this will be referred to as "Figure 5") This is a wiring diagram showing the connection of a 19-pin output version of a modular energy pallet according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0012] [Figure 6A] (In this specification, together with Figure 6B, this will be referred to as "Figure 6") This is a wiring diagram showing the connection of a weather-resistant locking output version of a modular energy pallet according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 6B] (In this specification, together with Figure 6A, this will be referred to as "Figure 6") This is a wiring diagram showing the connection of a weather-resistant locking output version of a modular energy pallet according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] This disclosure relates to a modular energy pallet that can generally be used in the management of attraction components such as vehicles, floats, and lighting displays.

[0014] The following describes one or more specific embodiments of this disclosure. For the sake of brevity, this specification may not describe all the features of actual implementations. It should be understood that the development of any such implementation found in any engineering or design project will require numerous implementation-specific decisions to achieve the developer's specific objectives, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary by implementation. Furthermore, while such development efforts may be complex and time-consuming, they should be understood by those skilled in the art who benefit from this disclosure as routine design, fabrication, and manufacturing activities.

[0015] When describing elements of various embodiments of this disclosure, the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” mean that there are one, two, or more of these elements. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be comprehensive and mean that there may be further elements other than those listed. Furthermore, any reference to “one embodiment” or “a certain embodiment” in this disclosure should not be interpreted as excluding the existence of further embodiments, including the features described. In addition, to make it clear that when data and / or power supply / communication is disclosed herein, data communication may include communication via wired and / or wireless communication (e.g., via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, radio frequency (RF), etc.). Furthermore, power supply may be wired and / or wireless (e.g., electromagnetic power transfer) (e.g., via a physical connector). While specific examples of data communication and power supply are described herein, this description is intended to illustrate examples of the systems and technologies described herein and is not intended to limit embodiments to such examples.

[0016] Embodiments of this disclosure relate to systems and methods for flexible power solutions for attraction components. Specifically, modular energy pallets can be used individually or in combination with each other to provide various power output levels and / or power output connection types. Furthermore, on-site convenience can be enhanced by including additional features such as work lighting and wireless access points in the modular energy pallets, which can help facilitate attraction component management.

[0017] Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram of a system 100 that utilizes one or more modular energy pallets 102 for various applications, according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Specifically, the system 100 includes an entertainment vehicle 104 and a mobile lighting display 106 that utilize the modular energy pallets 102 to power their respective features. For example, the entertainment vehicle 104 can use the modular energy pallets 102 to power features such as a moving mouth 108 and / or a smoke-generating feature 110. Furthermore, the mobile lighting display 106 can use the modular energy pallets 102 to power its lights 112.

[0018] The modularity of the modular energy pallet 102 allows for the provision of numerous power output levels. For example, an amusement vehicle 104 with relatively large features may require more power than a mobile lighting display 106. Rather than forming energy pallets with different power outputs for these different applications, the modular energy pallets 102 can be connected in linear in-series, each providing a consistent power output, resulting in additive power output. In this way, by connecting further modular energy pallets 102 to each other in linear in-series, customized amounts of power output can be provided. As shown in the figure, the amusement vehicle 104 utilizes two modular energy pallets 102 connected in linear in-series, while the mobile lighting display uses one modular energy pallet 102.

[0019] The modular energy pallet 102 can be powered via many different power connection types. Each connector can be weatherproof to enable operation in various weather conditions such as rain and snow. For example, in some embodiments, the modular energy pallet 102 may have a 120-volt AC (VAC) output from a built-in inverter that passes through ground fault circuit interrupters.

[0020] In some embodiments, a bulkhead DC (e.g., DC 51V 51A) output can be provided, drawing power directly from the built-in battery of the modular energy pallet 102. This connection type can provide such power to attraction components that require a substantial amount of DC power supply.

[0021] Furthermore, in some embodiments, other connectors such as a weatherproof locking bulkhead output can be provided via a modular energy pallet 102 that supplies alternating current (AC) power. In such embodiments, AC power can be supplied to the modular energy pallet 102 via the weatherproof locking bulkhead connector. If more current is required than can be supplied by the built-in inverter of one modular energy pallet 102, another modular energy pallet 102 can be coupled to the first modular energy pallet 102, and individual AC power cables can be connected to both modular energy pallets 102.

[0022] In some embodiments, wireless and / or wired pin outputs for data and / or power can be provided. For example, in one embodiment, a 19-pin output (e.g., Socapex or Soco output) is provided. In such embodiments, the main output of the unit can be routed to a subset of the pins via a connector. For example, with a 19-pin output, the main output of the unit can be routed to a 10-pin (6-channel) connector. A subset of the channels is dedicated to the built-in inverter, while other channels remain open and are used to patch in power from the output of a further modular energy pallet 102.

[0023] As described above, the modular energy pallet 102 can also provide additional features that help facilitate the management of the attraction components. For example, the modular energy pallet 102 can include a built-in wireless access point that enables wireless communication with the attraction components. For example, the wireless access point can include a waterproof bulkhead ethernet port that can be coupled to the communication system of the attraction component. The wireless access point can be selectively activated and, when activated, can be powered by the built-in battery of the modular energy pallet 102.

[0024] In the system 100 of FIG. 1, the built-in vehicle controller 114 can be communicatively coupled to a selectively activated access point of one of the modular energy pallets of the modular energy pallet 102. In this way, a wireless command system 116 that provides a physical Ethernet connection to the access point to the built-in vehicle controller 114 and can transmit wireless commands to an active access point can be enabled to control the entertainment vehicle 104. Similarly, the controller 118 of the mobile lighting display 106 can be connected to a selectively activated access point of the coupled modular energy pallet, enabling the wireless command system 116 to provide wireless commands to the controller 118 that affect changes in the mobile lighting display.

[0025] Furthermore, the modular energy pallet 102 can include work lighting. The work lighting can be selectively activated by the operator and can provide convenience and safety for the operator when operating the attraction components and / or the modular energy pallet. The work lighting can be powered by the built-in battery of the modular energy pallet 102 when activated.

[0026] While System 100 illustrates two different types of attraction components—an amusement vehicle 104 and a mobile lighting display 106—this does not mean that the use of System 100 is limited to these specific types of attraction components. In fact, many other attraction components can utilize the modular energy pallet to provide a cost-effective and highly useful power solution.

[0027] Next, referring to a more detailed drawing of the modular energy pallet 102, Figure 2 is an isometric front view of a modular energy pallet 200 with the top cover removed, illustrating various features of the modular energy pallet according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, the modular energy pallet 200 includes a structural framing 202 surrounding the internal components of the modular energy pallet 200. The framing includes vertical frame members 204 and horizontal frame members 206 attached by corner members 208. The structural framing 202 includes stacking cups 210 and skid rails 212, which allow for the stacking of further modular energy pallets 200. Specifically, the skid rails 212 are sized to fit within the stacking cups 210 of another modular energy pallet 200. When stacked, the skid rail 212 of one modular energy pallet 200 rests on the vertical frame member 204, and a top cover can optionally be installed between the top of the vertical frame member 204 and the skid rail 212. One or more chassis ground points 213 can be placed on the structural frame 202 (for example, on the corner member 204). The chassis ground points 213 can be used to connect stacked modular energy pallets and / or to attach grounding strips, which may be beneficial, for example, for static electricity dissipation.

[0028] The skid rail 212 is positioned to form one or more fork pockets 214. The fork pockets 214 are gaps into which forklift prongs can be inserted so that the modular energy pallets 200 can be moved by a forklift. The skid rail may include a height 217 that is high enough to allow forklift prong clearance after the modular energy pallets 200 have been stacked on top of each other. In other words, the height 217 can be greater than the typical thickness of forklift prongs (e.g., 1.5 inches) so that the forklift prongs can be removed after the modular energy pallets 200 have been stacked.

[0029] Next, referring to the internal components, the modular energy pallet 200 includes a power source, which in this case is a battery 216, that supplies power to the attraction components. In some embodiments, the battery 216 may be a 51V 150Ah battery that is considered suitable for powering and / or partially powering many different attraction components. The modular energy pallet 200 may include an internal void into which the battery 216 can be placed and / or dropped. In the example shown in Figure 2, the battery 216 is held in place by battery restraints 218 attached to the structural frame 202 (for example, to a horizontal frame member 206). The battery restraints 218 may be angled aluminum molded to the shape of the battery 216 to restrain its lateral movement when the battery 216 is installed. As will be described in more detail with respect to Figure 3, the battery restraints 218 may include a securing system that ensures the battery 216 is fixed within the modular energy pallet 200. In some embodiments, the battery 216 may not be removable, but in some embodiments, the fixing system may include a mechanical locking system (e.g., a mechanism) that allows at least partial removal of the battery 216, such as by restraining the battery 216 when engaged and allowing unidirectional lateral movement to easily remove the battery 216 when disengaged. In this way, the battery 216 can be easily removed for repair and / or replacement when necessary.

[0030] The modular energy pallet 200 also includes an inverter cabinet 219 capable of housing one or more inverters. In the illustrated embodiment, two inverters 220 are housed in the inverter cabinet 219. The inverters 220 can convert DC power to AC power to enable AC power applications of the modular energy pallet 200. Ventilation holes (e.g., slotted vents, louvered vents, etc.) 222 may be included to allow forced air cooling of the inverters 220.

[0031] The modular energy pallet 200 may also include a battery management system (BMS) 224. The BMS 224 controls the battery 216 in real time to ensure it operates within its rated specifications. The BMS 224 can perform operations such as battery cell monitoring, overcharge (e.g., high voltage cutoff) protection, over-discharge (e.g., low voltage cutoff) protection, general battery health monitoring of the battery 216, and other battery management functions. In some embodiments, the BMS 224 may also include a communicative coupling (e.g., wired, and / or wireless via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and / or near-field communication) that enables it to communicate / present statistical information about the battery 216 to the operator of the modular energy pallet 200.

[0032] The BMS224 can identify when the battery 216 should be charged and issue a command to prompt charging via the charger 226. The charger 226 can receive external power (e.g., VAC power) according to the command from the charging control unit of the BMS224 and charge the battery 216. In this embodiment, the charger 226 may be a 51V 16-cell (16S) charger.

[0033] The modular energy pallet 200 includes a control and patch panel 228 that provides input and output connections for the modular energy pallet 200. Details of the connections will be described in more detail with reference to Figures 4 and 5. The control and patch panel 228 structures the input and output cables between the input and output connectors and the charger 226 and BMS 224. In some embodiments, the control and patch panel 228 may be located on the outward-facing wall of the control cabinet 230, or may constitute such a wall. Each of the control cabinet 230, charger 226, and BMS 224 may be coupled to a stabilizer plate 233 mounted on a horizontal frame member 206. As a result, each of these components becomes stabilized within the modular energy pallet 200.

[0034] Next, referring to another figure of the modular energy pallet 200, Figure 3 is an isometric rear view of the modular energy pallet 200 of Figure 2 with the cover 300 attached, illustrating the features of the modular energy pallet according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0035] For example, this figure shows the battery fixing system 302 described above. The fixing system 302 can fix the battery 216 using a variety of different techniques and / or mechanisms. For example, in some embodiments, physical fixing mechanisms such as straps, brackets, fasteners, and battery ports can be used. In the example shown in Figure 3, the fixing system 302 is in the form of a removable bar. The fixing system 302 restrains the battery 216 when engaged (e.g., when bolted to a (single or double) bracket 304 attached to the structural frame 202). When disengaged (e.g., when the bolts are removed from the (single or double) bracket 304), the fixing system 302 allows lateral movement in one direction so that the battery 216 can be easily removed. In this way, the battery 216 can be easily removed for repair and / or replacement when necessary. In some embodiments, other mechanisms such as magnetic fixing mechanisms and pressure mechanisms can also be used. In some embodiments, the fixing system 302 may include a locking system to prevent unauthorized removal of the battery 216. For example, the locking system may utilize a key-based lock, a magnetic lock, or the like to prevent unauthorized removal of the battery 216 via the battery fixing system 302. In some embodiments, the locking system can prevent the removal of the battery 216 from the fixing system 302 that secures the battery 216 using the cover by locking the removal of the cover 300.

[0036] Furthermore, as shown in the figure, the control cabinet 230 may include one or more residual current circuit breakers (GFCIs) 232. The GFCIs 232 can provide circuit breaker protection in the event of an earth fault. The GFCIs 232 may be accessible without opening the primary enclosure of the modular energy pallet 200. This allows for quick access to the GFCIs 232 for purposes such as resetting. In some embodiments, the control cabinet 230 may also include a battery status gauge 306 that can be coupled with the BMS 224 to provide / display battery information. For example, the battery status gauge 306 may provide voltage, temperature, and / or current draw measurements of the battery 216, and the BMS 224 can display these measurements. In some embodiments, the control cabinet 230 may also include a reset button 308. The reset button 308 can be communicatively coupled to the BMS 224 (e.g., wired or wirelessly) and, when activated, can reset battery statistics maintained by the BMS 224 and / or the battery itself (e.g., in the event of a fault). In some embodiments, a battery reset can (for example, temporarily) isolate the battery 216 from the load and / or charger 226, preventing the battery 216 from supplying power to the load and / or charge. To do this, the reset button 308 allows the operator to open and close the main contactor of the BMS 224 via the activation of the reset button 308, thereby shutting off the load and / or charge circuit. In some embodiments, the reset button 308, when activated, can also trigger a reset of one or more of the battery 216 statistics maintained by the BMS 224.

[0037] Figure 3B is a front view of the stacked energy pallet system 350. The stacked energy pallet system 350 shows two independent modular energy pallets 352A and 352B arranged in a stacked configuration for convenient storage and transport. Furthermore, as described herein, the independent modular energy pallets 352A and 352B can be configured to provide a combined energy output (e.g., via wiring) for higher energy demand applications. Although only two modular energy pallets are shown in the stacked energy pallet system 350, additional modular energy pallets can be stacked and used for further energy needs in the stacked energy pallet system 350.

[0038] Next, referring to a more detailed description of the inputs and outputs of the modular energy pallet 200, Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a modular energy pallet control and patch panel 400 showing the inputs and outputs of the modular energy pallet according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0039] As shown in the figure, the control and patch panel 400 includes a charging section 402 which may include a charging indicator 404 and a charging port 406. The charging port 406, when connected to an external power source, can supply power to the battery 216 and enable charging of the battery according to the battery management system 224. In some embodiments, the charging port 406 may include an AC power input receptacle, for example, in the form of a weatherproof locking bulkhead connector. The charging indicator 404 may illuminate when power is supplied from an external power source for charging, or otherwise provide an indication of charging the battery 216. The charging indicator 404 may remain inactive when external power is not supplied and / or when the battery management system 224 has paused charging.

[0040] As described herein, each modular energy pallet 200 may be equipped with an inverter that provides AC power output. Accordingly, the control and patch panel 400 may include an inverter output section 408 that facilitates AC power output. The inverter output section 408 may include a switch 410 that, when operating, allows power to be supplied from the battery 216 through the inverter to the inverter outlet 412. The switch 410 disables the power flow from the inverter to the inverter outlet 412 when not operating. In some embodiments, each inverter may supply 120VAC / 16A of power, but in other embodiments, other inverter capacities may exist depending on the desired output. For example, in some embodiments, the inverter may supply about 220VAC. An inverter outlet indicator 414 may be activated when power is supplied to the outlet 412 through the inverter to indicate to the operator an active inverter outlet. In some embodiments, different sets of inverter outlets 412 and inverter outlet indicators 414 may be provided to correspond to the number of inverters in the modular energy pallet 200. For example, in the embodiment shown in Figure 4, since there are two built-in inverters, two sets of inverter outlets 412 and inverter outlet indicators 414 are provided.

[0041] In some embodiments, the power outlets may be weatherproof locking connections. In such embodiments of the modular energy pallet 200, all AC power output can be provided by weatherproof locking bulkhead connectors that are weatherproof both in use and when not in use. In such embodiments, if the application drawing power from the modular energy pallet 200 requires more current than that supplied by the built-in inverter, additional modular energy pallets 200 can be stacked to provide even more inverter outlets 412 to which AC cables can be connected, thereby supplying more AC current. Additional modular energy pallets 200 can be stacked until the desired amount of AC current is supplied.

[0042] In some embodiments, the power outlet may be a 19-pin output connection. In such embodiments of the modular energy pallet 200 with a 19-pin output connection, the main power output can be routed to a 19-pin (6-channel) connector (e.g., a Socapex connector or Soco connector) that is weatherproof when connected and protected by a weatherproof cover when not in use. Two or four of the six channels supplied by the 19-pin connector can be used exclusively for the modular energy pallet's built-in inverter to supply AC current. If more current is required than what the built-in inverter can supply, additional modular energy pallets 200 can be stacked on top of the first modular energy pallet 200 and powered from the remaining two or four channels not dedicated to the built-in inverter, thereby patching the stacked modular energy pallets 200 into the first modular energy pallet 200. Up to three modular energy pallets 200 can be connected in this way via a single 19-pin configuration.

[0043] The control and patch panel 400 also includes a direct battery output section 416 that enables current supply from the battery 216 without attenuation. The direct battery output section 416 includes a switch 418 that, when enabled, allows current to flow from the battery 216 through the BMS 224 and the contactor of the switch 418 to the outlet 420. In the illustrated embodiment, the outlet 420 supplies a 51VDC / 51A power output from the battery 216. An active output is indicated by a direct power outlet indicator 422 that remains active when power is supplied to the outlet 420 and is otherwise inactive.

[0044] The control and patch panel 228 also includes a work light switch 424 that can control whether the operator work light of the modular energy pallet 200 receives power and operates. When activated, the work light switch 424 completes the electrical circuit between the battery 216 and the work light, allowing the battery 216 to supply power to the built-in work light and thus operate the work light. When not activated, the work light switch 424 refrains from supplying power to the work light, thereby conserving power for other uses.

[0045] The control and patch panel 228 may also include an access point section 426, which enables communication via a built-in wireless access point. The switch 428 powers the built-in access point when operational, enabling electronic communication. Components utilizing power from the modular energy pallet 200 can be communicatively coupled to the access point via an onboard bulkhead Ethernet port 430, which can be weatherproof in use and when not in use. This enables wireless control via an external control system through the use of a physical Ethernet connection between the access point and the controlled component. The switch 428 refrains from supplying power to the access point when not operational, reserving power for other applications. In some embodiments, the control and patch panel 228, such as the illustrated control and patch panel 400, may include an emergency disconnect affordance 432. The emergency disconnect affordance 432 can disable all power outputs (e.g., both AC and DC power) when operational. In some embodiments, additional or other emergency cutting affordances 432 may be placed elsewhere on the modular energy pallet.

[0046] Next, referring to the wiring configuration of the 19-pin and weather-resistant locking embodiments of the modular energy pallet 200, Figure 5 is a 19-pin wiring diagram 500 showing the connections of the 19-pin output version of the modular energy pallet according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 6 is a wiring diagram showing the connections of the weather-resistant locking output version of the modular energy pallet according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. These figures will be described together due to considerable overlap in wiring. The following description will detail specific embodiments of modular energy pallets having certain electrical connections and electrical components, but this description is not intended to limit embodiments to such electrical connections and electrical components. In practice, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, many variations of electrical connections and / or electrical components are possible in the formation of a modular energy pallet.

[0047] As described above, the battery 216 can be charged according to commands from the battery management system (BMS) 224. The BMS 224 can receive charging data from the charger 502 via the controller area network bus (CANBUS) 504. Based on the data provided via CANBUS 504, the BMS 224 can provide features such as overcharge (e.g., high voltage cutoff) protection, over-discharge (e.g., low voltage cutoff) protection, general battery health monitoring of the battery 216, and other battery management functions while charging the battery 216. Furthermore, the BMS 224 can periodically monitor the temperature 505 and state of charge (SOC) 506 of the battery 216, which can also be useful for charging control. In some embodiments, CANBUS 504 can be communicatively coupled to each of the battery 216, charger 502, BMS 224, and SOC 506 to efficiently and effectively provide features. A physical reset button 508 can reset the charging and / or power distribution by the battery 216 when activated. For example, as described above, the reset button 508 can be communicably coupled to the BMS 224 (e.g., wired or wirelessly) and, when activated, reset the charging and / or power distribution of the battery 216 by (e.g., temporarily) isolating the battery 216 from the load and / or charger 226, thereby preventing the battery 216 from supplying power to the load and / or charge. To do this, the reset button 508 causes the main contactor of the BMS 224 to shut off the load circuit and / or charging circuit via activation. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the reset button 508 can also trigger a reset of one or more of the battery 216 statistics maintained by the BMS 224 when activated.

[0048] The charger circuit 510 can supply power to the charger 502. For example, as shown in Figure 6, power is supplied to the positive feed-through terminal block 614 and the negative feed-through terminal block 616 by the weatherproof locking top inlet 612, which can then supply power to the charger power indicator light 618 and the charger 502. Thus, the charger power indicator light 618 can activate when power is supplied to the charger 502 to indicate that the battery 216 is being charged.

[0049] The charger 502 can be connected to distribution blocks such as 1x6 distribution blocks 512A and 512B, with the negative connection connected to one (e.g., distribution block 512A) and the positive connection connected to the other (e.g., distribution block 512B) via a 50A low-voltage limiter fuse 514A (Figure 5) and / or a 50A circuit breaker 514B (Figure 6).

[0050] The negative main connection 516 can connect the BMS 224 to a power distribution block (e.g., a 1x6 power distribution block 512A). The positive main connection 518 can connect the BMS 224 to another power distribution block (e.g., a 1x6 power distribution block 512B) via a 150A fuse 519. These connections can enable charging of the battery 216 via power supplied by the charger circuit 510 and charger 502.

[0051] Next, moving on to the description of supplying power from the battery 216 to the outlets and accessories of the modular energy pallet 200, a distribution block (e.g., 1x6 distribution blocks 512A and 512B) can provide positive coupling 520A and negative coupling 522A to one or more inverters (e.g., positive coupling 520B and negative coupling 522B to the first inverter 524A, and to the second inverter 524B). The positive coupling (e.g., positive coupling 520A and 520B) from the distribution block (e.g., 1x6 distribution block 512B) to each inverter (e.g., inverters 524A and 524B) may include their respective intervening circuit breakers (e.g., circuit breakers 526A and 526B) to provide protection from overcurrent.

[0052] In this embodiment, inverters 524A and 524B are 2000W inverters, but other inverters may be used in other embodiments. One or both of inverters 524A and 524B may be fans (e.g., power enclosure fan 527), and both may be grounded to the frame, door, and / or enclosure bond points 528. The outputs of the inverters (e.g., inverters 524A and 524B) may be coupled to their respective residual current circuit breakers (GFCIs) (e.g., GFCIs 530A and 530B with their outputs). For example, as shown in Figure 6, the line and neutral connections of each inverter 524A and 524B are coupled to their respective terminal blocks 620. Terminal blocks 620 are coupled to the line sides of their respective GFCI modules 622A and 622B. The load sides of GFCI modules 622A and 622B are coupled to their respective terminal blocks 624.

[0053] The GFCIs (e.g., GFCI530A and 530B) are coupled to their respective feedthrough terminal blocks (e.g., terminal blocks 532A and 532B that provide line inputs 533A and 533B to outlets (e.g., channels 534A and 534B with 19 pin connections, and / or AC outlets 536A and / or 536B in Figure 5, and the weatherproof locking top outlet 628 in Figure 6)). Neutral outputs (e.g., neutral outputs 538A and 538B) and ground outputs (e.g., ground outputs 540A and 540B) for outlets (e.g., outlets 536A and 536B, respectively) can be provided via coupling to enclosure, door and / or frame coupling point 542 and / or (single or double) ground modular terminal blocks (e.g., (single or double) terminal block 544A or 544B and / or (single or double) feedthrough terminal block 546A or 546B). As shown in Figure 6, in some embodiments, inverter status lights can be powered by GFCI modules (e.g., GFCI modules 622A and 622B) and provide an inverter OK status indicator when illuminated.

[0054] As described above, in the pinned output embodiment (e.g., the 19-pin embodiment), additional channels 534C can be used to supply power from other stacked modular energy pallets 200. As shown in the figure, the inlets (e.g., inlets 548A and 548B) supply the respective line connections (e.g., line connections 550A and 550B), neutral connections (e.g., neutral connections 552A and 552B), and ground connections (e.g., ground connections 554A and 554B). The line connections 550A and 550B supply the respective feedthrough terminal blocks 556A and 556B. The neutral connections 552A and 552B supply the respective feedthrough terminal blocks 558A and 558B. The ground connections 554A and 554B supply the respective ground module terminal blocks 560A and 560B. The feedthrough terminal blocks 556A, 556B, 558A, and 558B, as well as the grounding modular terminal blocks 560A and 560B, are coupled to channel 534C, which supplies feedthrough power from the stacked modular energy pallets 200.

[0055] Returning to the description of selective component operation, the power distribution blocks (e.g., 1x6 power distribution blocks 512A and 512B) can selectively distribute power from the battery 216 to other components. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the power distribution blocks (e.g., 1x6 power distribution blocks 512A and 512B) can supply DC power directly to a panel mount receptacle 562 by coupling positive and negative outputs to contactors (e.g., contactor 566) through a circuit breaker (e.g., circuit breaker 564A) for the positive output. Contactor 566 provides a positive output 568 (e.g., 51V matching the battery 216) and a negative output 570 (e.g., 51V matching the battery 216) to the panel mount receptacle 562, thus providing a direct DC power connection from the battery 216.

[0056] The toggle switch can selectively supply power to other components as well. For example, a power distribution block (e.g., a 1x6 power distribution block 512A) can provide a negative output to a feedthrough terminal block 572, which in turn provides a negative access point output 574 to a DC-DC converter 576A that powers the built-in wireless access point 578. A 1x6 power distribution block 512B can supply a positive output from the battery 216 to a circuit breaker 564B coupled to a feedthrough terminal block 580. When activated, the access point toggle switch 582 supplies a positive access point output 584 from the feedthrough terminal block 580 to the DC-DC converter 576A, which in turn supplies a positive access point output 584 to the built-in wireless access point 578, thus enabling access point communication via the antenna array 586.

[0057] Other components, such as LED work lights 588, connector work lights 590, and / or control and patch panel work lights 592 (hereinafter, "work lights"), can also be selectively enabled. For example, as shown in the figure, the positive work light output 594 and the negative work light output 596 can be powered from the battery 216 via feedthrough terminal blocks 580 and 572, respectively. Signals from feedthrough terminal blocks 580 and 572 flow through a DC-DC converter 576B to stabilize the voltage supplying power to the work lights. A work light toggle switch 597 can deactivate the work lights by controlling the power supplied to them by cutting off the power flow when not in operation. Terminal block 572 can also provide a neutral DC status output for a DC out status light 626. A contactor 566 can supply a positive output for the DC out status light 626 based on the output from circuit breaker 564C (e.g., 2A) supplied from circuit breaker 564A to contactor 566.

[0058] The external Aux switch signal 598 and / or the DC toggle switch 600 can be coupled to the contactor 566. Signals from these components can indicate whether DC power is supplied by the contactor 566 (e.g., via the positive output 568 (e.g., 51V matching battery 216) and negative output 570 (e.g., 51V matching battery 216) supplied to the panel-mount receptacle 562). These components indicate that power should flow to the panel-mount receptacle 562 when operated.

[0059] External Aux switch signal 602 and external inverter switch signal 604 provide the operating status of DC toggle switch 600 and inverter toggle switch 606, respectively. These status indicators are provided via panel-mount receptacles 562 so that other modular energy pallets 200 can be used.

[0060] The inverter toggle switch 606 and / or the external inverter switch signal 608 selectively control whether inverters 524A and 524B are activated. As shown in the figure, activated and / or deactivated signals can be supplied via the feedthrough terminal block 610 through coupling to inverters 524A and 524B.

[0061] While only some features of the present invention have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will come to mind for those skilled in the art. Therefore, it should be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes that fall within the actual spirit of the invention.

[0062] The claimed technologies described herein refer to and apply to tangible objects and specific examples of a practical nature that are not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical, but which certainly improve the art. Furthermore, if any of the claims appended to the end of this specification contain one or more elements designated as "...means for (performing) (function)" or "...steps for (performing) (function)," such elements should be interpreted in accordance with 112(f) of the U.S. Patent Act. On the other hand, any claim containing elements designated in any other form should not be interpreted in accordance with 112(f) of the U.S. Patent Act.

Claims

1. A modular energy pallet, Battery and One or more selectively enabled outlets, which, when selectively enabled, supply power from a battery through the outlets, Enclosure system and, The enclosure system includes one or more skid rails positioned at the base of the enclosure system. Modular energy pallet.

2. The aforementioned battery includes a 51-volt (V), 150-amp-hour (Ah) battery. The modular energy pallet according to claim 1.

3. The system includes one or more inverters configured to convert DC power from the aforementioned battery into AC power. The modular energy pallet according to claim 1.

4. The one or more selectively activated outlets include the AC outlet that supplies the AC power. The modular energy pallet according to claim 3.

5. The AC outlet includes a weather-resistant 19-pin output that utilizes a first subset of the available channels of the 19-pin output for supplying the AC power. The modular energy pallet according to claim 4.

6. It is configured to receive additional AC power from a second stackable modular energy pallet and to route the additional AC power through one or more available channels to supply the additional AC power through the AC outlet. The modular energy pallet according to claim 5.

7. The one or more selectively enabled outlets include a first DC outlet configured to supply power directly from the battery. The modular energy pallet according to claim 1.

8. The system includes a selectively activated access point powered by the aforementioned battery, wherein the selectively activated access point is configured to connect to a component powered by the modular energy pallet when activated. The modular energy pallet according to claim 1.

9. The system includes one or more selectively activated work lights powered by the aforementioned battery, and the one or more selectively activated work lights are: A first work light configured to control the modular energy pallet and illuminate the patch panel, A second work light configured to illuminate one or more of the aforementioned selectively activated outlets, or Both of these, A modular energy pallet according to claim 1, including the features described above.

10. The one or more skid rails are positioned at the base of the enclosure system to form one or more fork pockets for one or more forks of the forklift. The modular energy pallet according to claim 1.

11. The system includes a battery restraint system, which is located within the enclosure system and configured to secure the battery within the modular energy pallet. The modular energy pallet according to claim 1.

12. Built-in battery management system, A built-in charger configured to charge the battery according to the scheme of the built-in battery management system, A modular energy pallet according to claim 1, comprising:

13. A modular energy pallet system, The first modular energy pallet, The second modular energy pallet, Equipped with, The first modular energy pallet is configured to receive power from a built-in battery of the first modular energy pallet via one or more first selectively activated outlets, and includes one or more first skid rails located at the base of the first modular energy pallet. The second modular energy pallet is configured to receive one or more first skid rails on its upper part and to receive auxiliary power through one or more second selectively activated outlets. Modular energy pallet system.

14. The one or more first skid rails have a shape and size such that the forks of a forklift can be accommodated within the one or more first skid rails, and the forks can be removed after the one or more first skid rails are received by the second modular energy pallet. The modular energy pallet system according to claim 13.

15. The first one or more selectively enabled outlets and the second one or more selectively enabled outlets include AC outlets that supply the AC power via inverters that convert DC power to AC power. The AC outlet includes a weather-resistant 19-pin output that utilizes a first subset of the available channels of the 19-pin output for supplying the AC power. The modular energy pallet system according to claim 13.

16. The first modular energy pallet is, AC power from the first modular energy pallet is supplied to the electric component via a single 19-pin connection between the electric component and the first modular energy pallet. As a complement to the AC power from the first modular energy pallet, AC power from the second modular energy pallet is received and routed via the single 19-pin connection. A modular energy pallet system according to claim 15, configured as described above.

17. A third modular energy pallet is provided, wherein the first modular energy pallet is configured to receive AC power from the third modular energy pallet via the single 19-pin connection, along with the AC power from the first modular energy pallet and the AC power from the second modular energy pallet, and route it to the motorized component. The modular energy pallet system according to claim 16.

18. The first modular energy pallet, the second modular energy pallet, or both thereof include selectively activated access points, which, when activated, are configured to be coupled via bulkhead connectors to devices powered by the modular energy pallet system. The modular energy pallet system according to claim 13.

19. A method of supplying electricity, Selectively enable the DC outlets of the modular energy pallet. A DC-driven attraction component is coupled to the selectively enabled DC outlet of the modular energy pallet. This means that power is supplied to the DC-driven attraction component via the modular energy pallet, and the DC power supplied to the DC-driven attraction component is supplied directly from the built-in battery of the modular energy pallet. Selectively enable the AC outlet of the aforementioned modular energy pallet, An AC-driven attraction component is coupled to the selectively enabled AC outlet of the modular energy pallet. This means that power is supplied to the AC-driven attraction component via the modular energy pallet, and the AC power supplied to the AC-driven attraction component is supplied from the built-in battery via one or more inverters, A method that includes this.

20. This includes wirelessly controlling the DC-driven attraction component, the AC-driven attraction component, or both thereof, via a wireless access point connection to an access point coupled to the controller of the DC-driven attraction component, the AC-driven attraction component, or both thereof. The method according to claim 19.

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