Jump starter with battery detection for safety

Abstract

A jump start device for charging or fast charging a depleted or discharged battery, the jump start device including: a rechargeable battery; a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to a positive terminal of the battery; a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to a negative terminal of the battery; a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the depleted or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the depleted or discharged battery; a first detector for detecting the presence of a depleted or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors; and a second detector for detecting the presence of a depleted or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention is directed to a jump starter with a battery detection system to provide safety, and a system and method for detecting when a jump starter is connected to a dead or discharged battery being jump started.

[0002] The present invention is also directed to jump starters with current-sharing switch (i.e., power switch) arrangements and safety switches, systems, and methods. For example, the power switch or safety switch (e.g., a smart switch) of a jump starter includes a primary current path and one or more secondary bypass current paths for protecting the primary current path through the safety switch from damage due to current overload (e.g., welded contacts of the safety switch) via the safety switch. [Background technology]

[0003] Many jump starters exist for charging or boosting dead or discharged batteries (such as vehicle batteries).

[0004] Additionally, jump-starting a dead or discharged battery (such as a vehicle battery) requires a large current. Typically, the larger the vehicle, the greater the current. The problem is exacerbated in cold weather, where mechanical parts in the starter and engine become stiff. The problem arises as to how to supply the high current to the vehicle battery and starter. Lithium batteries provide increased power that can damage conductors and switching devices if not properly designed.

[0005] To ensure the safety of a jump starter, a safety switch must be incorporated into the design. When this safety switch is open, power is not transferred to the jump starter clamps connected to a dead or discharged battery. When the safety switch is closed, the power required to jump start a vehicle is provided. The safety switch is typically either a relay or FET design.

[0006] The advantage of relays is that they are durable. The disadvantages are that the contacts can stick and they take a relatively long time to open and close. Another disadvantage is that they generally take up a lot of space.

[0007] The advantages of FETs are that they are small and turn on and off very quickly, but the disadvantages are that they are fragile (thermal runaway and load balancing are important).

[0008] The present invention also relates generally to an apparatus for jump-starting a vehicle having a dead or discharged battery. The prior art is known to include a pair of electrical connector cables that connect a fully charged battery of another vehicle to the engine starting circuit of the dead vehicle, or a portable booster device that includes a fully charged battery that can be connected to the vehicle's engine starting device via a pair of cables.

[0009] A problem with the prior art occurs when the jumper terminals or clamps on a cable inadvertently come into contact with each other while the other end is connected to a charged battery, or when the positive and negative terminals are connected to terminals of opposite polarity on the vehicle being jumped, thereby creating a short circuit that can spark and potentially damage the battery and / or cause personal injury.

[0010] Various attempts have been made in the prior art to overcome this problem. U.S. Patent No. 6,212,054, issued April 3, 2001, discloses a battery booster pack that is polarity sensitive and can detect proper and improper connections before providing a path for current flow. The device uses an LED connected to an optocoupler that is steered by a control circuit. The control circuit controls a solenoid assembly, which in turn controls the current path. The control circuit allows current to flow through the solenoid assembly only if the contacts of the booster cable clamp connections are properly made.

[0011] U.S. Patent No. 6,632,103, issued on October 14, 2003, discloses an adaptive booster cable connected by two pairs of clips, each attached to two batteries to transfer power from one battery to the other. The adaptive booster cable includes a polarity detection unit connected to each clip, and a switching unit and a current detection unit disposed between the two pairs of clips. After the polarity of each clip is detected by the polarity detection unit, the switching unit generates an appropriate connection between the two batteries. Therefore, the positive and negative terminals of the two batteries are properly connected based on the detection result of the polarity detection unit.

[0012] U.S. Patent No. 8,493,021, issued July 23, 2013, discloses an apparatus that monitors the voltage of the vehicle's battery being jump-started and the current supplied by the jump-starter battery to determine whether proper connection has been established and to provide fault monitoring. The system can be activated only if proper polarity is detected. The voltage is monitored to determine open circuits, disconnected conductive clamps, shunt cable failures, and solenoid fault conditions. The current through the shunt cable is monitored to determine whether there is an overcurrent condition, which could indicate an overheating condition that could cause the battery to explode or result in a fire. The system includes an internal battery to power the vehicle's battery being jump-started. Once the vehicle is started, the unit automatically electrically disconnects from the vehicle's battery.

[0013] U.S. Patent No. 5,189,359, issued February 23, 1993, discloses a jumper cable device that includes two bridge rectifiers for generating reference voltages, a four-input decoder for determining which terminals to connect based on a comparison of the voltages at each of the four terminals with the reference voltage, and a pair of relays for making the correct connection based on the decoder's determination. Connections are not made unless exactly one terminal of each battery has a voltage higher than the reference voltage, indicating the "positive" terminal, and one has a voltage lower than the reference voltage, indicating the "negative" terminal. Thus, two high-voltage terminals and two low-voltage terminals can be connected. Current flows when the appropriate relays are closed. The relays are preferably MOSFETs combined with a series array of photodiodes that generate a MOSFET gate-close potential when the decoder output illuminates an LED.

[0014] U.S. Patent No. 5,795,182, issued August 18, 1998, discloses a polarity-independent battery jumper cable set for jumping a first battery to a second battery. The device includes a relative polarity detector for detecting whether two batteries are configured crossed or parallel. A three-position, high-current-capacity crossbar pivot switch responds to the relative polarity detector to automatically connect the positive terminals of two batteries together and the negative terminals together, regardless of whether the detected configuration is crossed or parallel. It also includes an undercurrent detector and a delay circuit to return the device to a ready, unconnected state after the device is disconnected from one of the batteries. The crossbar pivot switch includes two pairs of contacts and a pivot arm that pivots about two separate points to ensure complete electrical contact between the two pairs of contacts. The present invention can also be used to manufacture a battery charger that can connect batteries regardless of their polarity.

[0015] U.S. Patent No. 6,262,492, issued July 17, 2001, discloses a car battery jumper cable for accurately connecting a valid power source to a faulty or uncharged battery. The jumper cable includes a relay switching circuit connected to the power source and the battery by two pairs of current conductors. First and second voltage polarity recognition circuits are connected to the power source and the battery by their respective pairs of voltage conductors and recognize the polarities of the power source and the battery. The logic recognition circuit generates a control signal corresponding to the polarities of the power source and the battery, and a drive circuit controlled by the control signal from the logic recognition circuit drives the relay switching circuit, thereby accurately connecting the two poles of the power source and the two poles of the battery.

[0016] U.S. Patent No. 5,635,817, issued June 3, 1997, discloses a vehicle battery charging system including a control housing with a cable including a current limiting device that prevents exceeding a predetermined maximum charging current of approximately 40 to 60 amperes. The control housing includes a polarity detection device that verifies the correct polarity of the connection of the terminals of the two batteries and electrically disconnects the two batteries if the polarity is incorrect.

[0017] U.S. Patent No. 8,199,024, issued June 12, 2012, discloses a safety circuit in a low-voltage connection system that keeps two low-voltage systems separated until it determines that it is safe to make the connection. If the safety circuit determines that no unsafe conditions exist and that it is safe to connect the two low-voltage systems, the safety circuit can connect the two systems using a "soft start," which provides connection between the two systems for a period of time that reduces or prevents induced voltage spikes in one or more of the low-voltage systems. A method for detecting the proper polarity of a connection between low-voltage systems is used when one of the low-voltage systems contains a fully discharged battery. The polarity of the discharged battery is determined by passing one or more test currents through the battery and determining whether a corresponding voltage rise is observed.

[0018] U.S. Patent No. 5,793,185, issued August 11, 1998, discloses a portable jump starter with control components and circuitry to prevent overcharging and incorrect connection of the battery.

[0019] While the prior art has attempted solutions to the problems discussed above, each prior art solution suffers from other drawbacks, either in complexity, cost, or the possibility of malfunction. Thus, there is a need in the art for further improvements in vehicle jump-start devices. Summary of the Invention

[0020] The present invention relates to an improved jump starter.

[0021] The present invention is directed to an improved jump starter configured to provide battery detection and safety.

[0022] The present invention is directed to a jump starter configured to provide battery detection and safety, including vehicle battery detection and active vehicle battery detection.

[0023] Battery Detection The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump start device including a rechargeable battery, a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery, a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery, a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery, a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors.

[0024] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump start device including a rechargeable battery, a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery, a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery, a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery, a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, wherein the first detector is an automatic dead or discharged battery detector.

[0025] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump start device including a rechargeable battery, a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery, a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery, a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery, a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, the first detector including one or more optoisolators.

[0026] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump start device including a rechargeable battery, a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery, a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery, a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery, a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, wherein the first detector is an automatic dead or discharged battery detector and includes one or more operational amplifiers.

[0027] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump start device including a rechargeable battery, a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery, a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery, a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery, a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, the second detector being an active dead or discharged battery presence detector.

[0028] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump start device including a rechargeable battery, a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery, a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery, a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery, a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, wherein the first detector is an automatic dead or discharged battery detector and the second detector is an active dead or discharged battery presence detector.

[0029] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump start device including a rechargeable battery, a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery, a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery, a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery, a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, wherein the first detector includes one or more optoisolators and the second detector is an active dead or discharged battery presence detector.

[0030] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump start device including a rechargeable battery, a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery, a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery, a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery, a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and further including a short circuit detector.

[0031] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump start device including a rechargeable battery, a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery, a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery, a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery, a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and further including a reverse polarity detector.

[0032] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump start device including a rechargeable battery, a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery, a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery, a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery, a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and further including a short circuit detector and a reverse polarity detector.

[0033] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump start device including a rechargeable battery, a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery, a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery, a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery, a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, the power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement, the power switch being in circuit with the rechargeable battery for applying power from the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery during a charging operation of the jump start device.

[0034] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump start device including a rechargeable battery, a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery, a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery, a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery, a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, wherein the rechargeable battery is a lithium ion rechargeable battery.

[0035] The present invention is also directed to a jump-starting device for charging or fast-charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including: a rechargeable battery; a positive battery connector for connecting the jump-starting device to the positive terminal of the battery; a negative battery connector for connecting the jump-starting device to the negative terminal of the battery; a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump-starting device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery; a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors; and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, the power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement, the power switch being connected in circuit with the rechargeable battery to apply power from the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery during a charging operation of the jump-starting device, the one or more primary switches and the one or more secondary switches allowing the same amount of current during a charging operation of the jump-starting device.

[0036] The present invention is also directed to a jump-starting device for charging or fast-charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including: a rechargeable battery; a positive battery connector for connecting the jump-starting device to the positive terminal of the battery; a negative battery connector for connecting the jump-starting device to the negative terminal of the battery; a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump-starting device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery; a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors; and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, the power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement, the power switch being connected in circuit with the rechargeable battery to power the dead or discharged battery from the rechargeable battery during a charging operation of the jump-starting device, the one or more primary switches allowing a greater current than the one or more secondary switches during a charging operation of the jump-starting device.

[0037] The present invention is also directed to a jump-starting device for charging or fast-charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including: a rechargeable battery; a positive battery connector for connecting the jump-starting device to the positive terminal of the battery; a negative battery connector for connecting the jump-starting device to the negative terminal of the battery; a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump-starting device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery; a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors; and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, the power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement, the power switch being circuit-connected with the rechargeable battery to power the dead or discharged battery from the rechargeable battery during a charging operation of the jump-starting device; and the one or more primary switches allowing a greater current than the one or more secondary switches during a charging operation of the jump-starting device, and the one or more secondary switches being one or more bypass switches.

[0038] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump start device including: a rechargeable battery; a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery; a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery; a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery; a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors; and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, wherein the power switch includes one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement, and the power switch is circuit connected with the rechargeable battery to apply power from the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery during a charging operation of the jump start device, and the power switch is a smart switch controlled by a microcontroller.

[0039] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump start device including: a rechargeable battery; a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery; a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery; a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery; a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors; and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, wherein the power switch includes one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement, and the power switch is circuit connected with the rechargeable battery to power the dead or discharged battery from the rechargeable battery during a charging operation of the jump start device, and the power switch is a smart switch controlled by a microcontroller, and is configured to operate in a sequence of first turning on or closing the one or more primary switches and then turning on or closing the one or more secondary switches.

[0040] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump start device comprising a rechargeable battery, a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery, a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery, a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery, a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors. and a second detector for detecting the presence of a depleted or discharged battery; the power switch includes one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement, the power switch being circuit connected with the rechargeable battery to power the depleted or discharged battery from the rechargeable battery during a charging operation of the jump start device; the power switch is a smart switch controlled by a microcontroller, and the smart switch is configured to operate in a sequence of first turning on or closing the one or more primary switches and then turning on or closing the one or more secondary switches, the one or more secondary switches being turned on after a 100 millisecond delay.

[0041] The present invention is also directed to a jump-starting device for charging or fast-charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including: a rechargeable battery; a positive battery connector for connecting the jump-starting device to the positive terminal of the battery; a negative battery connector for connecting the jump-starting device to the negative terminal of the battery; a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump-starting device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery; a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors; and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, the power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement, the power switch being circuit-connected with the rechargeable battery to power the dead or discharged battery from the rechargeable battery during a charging operation of the jump-starting device, the one or more primary switches allowing a greater current than the one or more secondary switches, the one or more primary switches being one or more relays and the one or more secondary switches being one or more FETs.

[0042] The present invention is also directed to a jump-starting device for charging or fast-charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including: a rechargeable battery; a positive battery connector for connecting the jump-starting device to the positive terminal of the battery; a negative battery connector for connecting the jump-starting device to the negative terminal of the battery; a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump-starting device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery; a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors; and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, wherein the power switch includes one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement, the power switch being circuit-connected with the rechargeable battery to power the dead or discharged battery from the rechargeable battery during a charging operation of the jump-starting device, and wherein the one or more primary switches allow a greater current than the one or more secondary switches during a charging operation of the jump-starting device, and the one or more primary switches are one or more FETs and the one or more secondary switches are one or more relays.

[0043] The present invention is also directed to a jump-starting device for charging or fast-charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including: a rechargeable battery; a positive battery connector for connecting the jump-starting device to the positive terminal of the battery; a negative battery connector for connecting the jump-starting device to the negative terminal of the battery; a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump-starting device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery; a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors; and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, the power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel configuration, the power switch further including conductors connected to outputs of the one or more primary switches and the one or more secondary switches in circuit with the rechargeable battery to apply power from the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery during a charging operation of the jump-starting device, the conductors being heavy-gauge conductors configured to allow a substantial amount of charging current without damage, the heavy-gauge conductors being made of a conductive metal.

[0044] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump start device comprising a rechargeable battery, a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery, a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery, a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery, a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and a negative battery connector for connecting the rechargeable battery to the positive and negative battery connectors. and a second detector for detecting the presence of a depleted or discharged battery; the power switch includes one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement; the power switch is circuit connected with the rechargeable battery to power the depleted or discharged battery from the rechargeable battery during a charging operation of the jump start device, and further includes conductors connected to the outputs of the one or more primary switches and the one or more secondary switches, the conductors being heavy-gauge conductors configured to allow a substantial amount of charging current without damage; the heavy-gauge conductors are made of a conductive metal; and the heavy-gauge conductors are plates, bars, rods, tubes, or bus bars.

[0045] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump start device comprising a rechargeable battery, a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery, a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery, a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery, a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors. and a device, wherein the power switch includes one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement, the power switch being circuit-connected with the rechargeable battery to power a battery depleted or discharged from the rechargeable battery during a charging operation of the jump start device, the power switch being a smart switch controlled by a microcontroller, the smart switch being configured to operate in a sequence of first turning on or closing the one or more primary switches and then turning on or closing the one or more secondary switches, and the smart switch being configured to operate in a sequence of first turning off or opening the one or more secondary switches and then turning off or opening the one or more primary switches.

[0046] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump start device including a rechargeable battery, a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery, a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery, a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery, a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, wherein the power switch includes one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement.

[0047] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump start device including: a rechargeable battery; a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery; a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery; a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery; a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors; and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, wherein the power switch includes one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches connected together in an electrically parallel arrangement, and the one or more secondary switches are one or more bypass switches that allow less current than the one or more primary switches.

[0048] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump start device including a rechargeable battery, a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery, a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery, a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery, a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and further including an input USB port.

[0049] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a depleted or discharged battery, the jump start device including: a rechargeable battery; a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery; a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery; a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the depleted or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the depleted or discharged battery; a first detector for detecting the presence of a depleted or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors; and a second detector for detecting the presence of a depleted or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors; and further including an input USB port, the input USB port including an input USB connector connected to a USB charging circuit, the USB charging circuit electrically connecting the input USB connector to the rechargeable battery.

[0050] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a depleted or discharged battery, the jump start device including: a rechargeable battery; a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery; a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery; a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the depleted or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the depleted or discharged battery; a first detector for detecting the presence of a depleted or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors; and a second detector for detecting the presence of a depleted or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors; and further including an input USB port, the input USB port including an input USB connector connected to a USB charging circuit, the USB charging circuit electrically connecting the input USB connector to the rechargeable battery, the USB charging circuit configured to increase the voltage from the input USB connector to the rechargeable battery.

[0051] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a depleted or discharged battery, the jump start device including: a rechargeable battery; a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery; a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery; a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the depleted or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the depleted or discharged battery; a first detector for detecting the presence of a depleted or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors; and a second detector for detecting the presence of a depleted or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors; and the jump start device further includes an input USB port, the input USB port including an input USB connector connected to a USB charging circuit, the USB charging circuit electrically connecting the input USB connector to the rechargeable battery, the USB charging circuit configured to increase a voltage from the input USB connector to the rechargeable battery, and the USB charging circuit including a DC-DC converter configured to increase the voltage from the input USB connector to the rechargeable battery.

[0052] The present invention is also directed to a jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump start device including: a rechargeable battery; a positive battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the positive terminal of the battery; a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of the battery; a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump start device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery; a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors; and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, and the jump start device further includes an input USB port configured to charge the rechargeable battery; and an output USB port configured to charge one or more external electrical devices using the rechargeable battery.

[0053] The present invention is also directed to a jump-starting device for charging or fast-charging a dead or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including: a rechargeable battery; a positive battery connector for connecting the jump-starting device to the positive terminal of the battery; a negative battery connector for connecting the jump-starting device to the negative terminal of the battery; a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery when connected to the jump-starting device during a charging operation of the dead or discharged battery; a first detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors; and a second detector for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to the positive and negative battery connectors, the jump-starting device further including a control system or circuit electrically connected to and controlling the power switch, the control system or circuit configured to detect both the presence and polarity of the dead or discharged battery when electrically connected between the positive and negative battery terminal connectors.

[0054] safety switch The present invention is also directed to a jump starter having a safety switch (i.e., a power switch), and to a specific safety switch for a jump starter, which configures a first current path in combination with one or more additional current paths (e.g., one or more additional bypass current paths) to share current passing through the switch, e.g., to protect at least a first current path passing through the switch.

[0055] For example, the safety switch may include a primary relay in parallel with a secondary bypass relay. Alternatively, the safety switch may include a primary relay in parallel with a secondary bypass FET or FETs. As yet another alternative, the safety switch may include a primary FET or FETs in parallel with a secondary bypass relay.

[0056] The combination of using both relays and FETs in a switch structure (e.g., relay, multiple relays, FET, multiple FETs) helps to eliminate the disadvantages of using only relays or FETs while utilizing and consolidating the advantages of using both at least one relay and at least one FET. Adding at least one FET in parallel with at least one relay allows for current sharing, minimizing the space required for a larger relay. The at least one FET can be turned on and off whenever needed and can also be pulse-width modulated (PMW) to control the amount of current sharing.

[0057] The primary and secondary current paths (e.g., a relay, multiple relays, FET, multiple FETs, or a combination thereof) may equally share the amount of current passing through each device arranged in parallel. However, a switch, for example, may be arranged so that the primary current path handles or allows more or most of the current and the secondary current path handles or allows less or a minimum of the current passing through the switch (e.g., a smart switch) when actuated or opened.

[0058] For example, the primary current path may be configured to handle or allow 80 to 85 percent (i.e., 80-85%) of the total current passing through the switch when actuated or opened, and the secondary current path may be configured to handle or allow 10 to 15 percent (i.e., 10-15%) of the total current passing through the switch when actuated or opened.

[0059] Relay / FET Conductor A conductor (e.g., a heavier gauge conductor, a copper conductor, an aluminum conductor, a bus bar) can connect the output ends of the at least one relay and the at least one FET. The conductor can be sized or rated to control the amount of current flowing through each of the at least one relay and the at least one FET. Again, the conductor can be copper, aluminum, or other conductive or highly conductive metal and can be fabricated (e.g., pressed, formed, cut, machined) into a shape for optimal connection between the at least one relay and the at least one FET.

[0060] The subject matter described herein is directed to an improved jump starter.

[0061] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump starter that includes an improved jump starter switch (i.e., power switch).

[0062] The subject matter described herein is directed to an improved jump starter power switch.

[0063] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump-starting device for charging or jumping a dead or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including a rechargeable battery, a power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches, a positive battery cable connected to the rechargeable battery, and a negative battery cable connected to the power switch.

[0064] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump-starting device for charging or jumping a dead or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including a rechargeable battery, a power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches, a positive battery cable connected to the rechargeable battery, and a negative battery cable connected to the power switch, wherein the rechargeable battery is a lithium-ion rechargeable battery.

[0065] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump-starting device for charging or jumping a depleted or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including a rechargeable battery, a power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches, a positive battery cable connected to the rechargeable battery, and a negative battery cable connected to the power switch, wherein the one or more primary switches and the one or more secondary switches allow the same amount of current during a charging operation of the jump-starting device.

[0066] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump-starting device for charging or jumping a depleted or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including a rechargeable battery, a power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches, a positive battery cable connected to the rechargeable battery, and a negative battery cable connected to the power switch, wherein the one or more primary switches allow a greater current than the one or more secondary switches during a charging operation of the jump-starting device.

[0067] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump-starting device for charging or jumping a depleted or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including a rechargeable battery, a power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches, a positive battery cable connected to the rechargeable battery, and a negative battery cable connected to the power switch, wherein the one or more primary switches allow a greater current than the one or more secondary switches during a charging operation of the jump-starting device, and the one or more secondary switches are one or more bypass switches.

[0068] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump-start device for charging or jumping a dead or discharged battery, the jump-start device including a rechargeable battery, a power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches, a positive battery cable connected to the rechargeable battery, and a negative battery cable connected to the power switch, wherein the power switch is a smart switch controlled by a microcontroller.

[0069] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump-start device for charging or jumping a depleted or discharged battery, the jump-start device including a rechargeable battery, a power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches, a positive battery cable connected to the rechargeable battery, and a negative battery cable connected to the power switch, the power switch being a smart switch controlled by a microcontroller, the smart switch configured to operate in a sequence that first turns on the one or more primary switches and then turns on the one or more secondary switches.

[0070] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump-start device for charging or jump-starting a depleted or discharged battery, the jump-start device including a rechargeable battery, a power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches, a positive battery cable connected to the rechargeable battery, and a negative battery cable connected to the power switch, the power switch being a smart switch controlled by a microcontroller, the smart switch configured to operate in a sequence that first turns on the one or more primary switches, then turns on the one or more secondary switches, the one or more secondary switches being turned on after a 100 millisecond delay.

[0071] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump-starting device for charging or jumping a depleted or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including a rechargeable battery, a power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches, a positive battery cable connected to the rechargeable battery, and a negative battery cable connected to the power switch, wherein during a charging operation of the jump-starting device, the one or more primary switches allow a greater current than the one or more secondary switches, the one or more primary switches being one or more relays, and the one or more secondary switches being one or more FETs.

[0072] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump-starting device for charging or jumping a depleted or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including a rechargeable battery, a power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches, a positive battery cable connected to the rechargeable battery, and a negative battery cable connected to the power switch, wherein during a charging operation of the jump-starting device, the one or more primary switches allow a greater current than the one or more secondary switches, the one or more primary switches being one or more FETs, and the one or more secondary switches being one or more relays.

[0073] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump-starting device for charging or jumping a depleted or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including a rechargeable battery, a power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches, a positive battery cable connected to the rechargeable battery, a negative battery cable connected to the power switch, and further including conductors connected to outputs of the one or more primary switches and the one or more secondary switches.

[0074] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump-starting device for charging or jumping a depleted or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including a rechargeable battery, a power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches, a positive battery cable connected to the rechargeable battery, and a negative battery cable connected to the power switch, and further including conductors connected to outputs of the one or more primary switches and the one or more secondary switches, the conductors being heavy-gauge conductors configured to allow a substantial amount of charging current without damage.

[0075] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump-starting device for charging or jumping a depleted or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including a rechargeable battery, a power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches, a positive battery cable connected to the rechargeable battery, and a negative battery cable connected to the power switch, and further including conductors connected to outputs of the one or more primary switches and the one or more secondary switches, the conductors being heavy-gauge conductors configured to allow a substantial amount of charging current without damage, the heavy-gauge conductors being made of a conductive metal.

[0076] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump-starting device for charging or jumping a depleted or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including a rechargeable battery, a power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches, a positive battery cable connected to the rechargeable battery, and a negative battery cable connected to the power switch, and further including conductors connected to outputs of the one or more primary switches and the one or more secondary switches, the conductors being heavy-gauge conductors configured to allow a substantial amount of charging current without damage, the heavy-gauge conductors being made of a conductive metal, and the heavy-gauge conductors being plates, bars, rods, tubes, or busbars.

[0077] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump-start device having a current sharing configuration for charging or jump-starting a dead or discharged battery, the jump-start device including a rechargeable battery; a power switch configured to turn on or off power from the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery, the power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement; a positive battery cable connected to the rechargeable battery, the positive battery cable having a positive battery terminal connector for connecting to a positive terminal of the dead or discharged battery; and a negative battery cable connected to the power switch, the negative battery cable having a positive battery terminal connector for connecting to a positive terminal of the dead or discharged battery. a negative battery cable having a negative battery terminal connector for connecting to the positive terminal, and a power switch circuit connected to the rechargeable battery to power a battery that has been depleted or discharged from the rechargeable battery during a charging operation of the jump start device, the power switch being a smart switch controlled by a microcontroller, the smart switch configured to operate in a sequence of turning on or closing one or more primary switches and then turning on or closing one or more secondary switches, and the smart switch configured to operate in a sequence of first turning off or opening one or more secondary switches and then turning off or opening one or more primary switches.

[0078] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump-starting device having a current sharing configuration for charging or jump-starting a dead or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including a rechargeable battery; a power switch configured to turn on or off power from the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery, the power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement; a positive battery cable connected to the rechargeable battery, the positive battery cable having a positive battery terminal connector for connecting to a positive terminal of the dead or discharged battery; and a negative battery cable connected to the power switch, the negative battery terminal connector for connecting to the positive terminal of the dead or discharged battery. and a negative battery cable connecting the negative battery cable to the negative battery cable, wherein the power switch is circuit-connected with the rechargeable battery to power a battery depleted or discharged from the rechargeable battery during a charging operation of the jump start device, the power switch being a smart switch controlled by a microcontroller, the smart switch being configured to operate in a sequence of turning on or closing one or more primary switches and then turning on or closing one or more secondary switches, and the smart switch being configured to operate in a sequence of first turning off or opening one or more secondary switches and then turning off or opening one or more primary switches, wherein the one or more secondary switches are one or more bypass switches that allow less current than the one or more primary switches.

[0079] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump starter power switch for connecting power from a rechargeable battery to a depleted or discharged battery, the power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement.

[0080] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump-starting device having a current sharing configuration for charging or jump-starting a depleted or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including: a rechargeable battery; a power switch configured to turn on or off power from the rechargeable battery to the depleted or discharged battery, the power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement; a positive battery cable connected to the rechargeable battery, the positive battery cable having a positive battery terminal connector for connecting to a positive terminal of the depleted or discharged battery; and a negative battery cable connected to the power switch, the negative battery cable having a negative battery terminal connector for connecting to the positive terminal of the depleted or discharged battery, the power switch being in circuit with the rechargeable battery to turn on power to the depleted or discharged battery from the rechargeable battery during a charging operation of the jump-starting device; and a USB charging circuit electrically connecting an input USB connector to the rechargeable battery.

[0081] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump-starting device having a current sharing configuration for charging or jump-starting a depleted or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including: a rechargeable battery; a power switch configured to turn on or off power from the rechargeable battery to the depleted or discharged battery, the power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement; a positive battery cable connected to the rechargeable battery, the positive battery cable having a positive battery terminal connector for connecting to a positive terminal of the depleted or discharged battery; and a negative battery cable connected to the power switch, the negative battery cable having a negative battery terminal connector for connecting to the positive terminal of the depleted or discharged battery, the power switch being in circuit with the rechargeable battery to power the depleted or discharged battery from the rechargeable battery during a charging operation of the jump-starting device; and a USB charging circuit electrically connecting an input USB connector to the rechargeable battery, the USB charging circuit being configured to increase a voltage between the USB connector and the rechargeable battery.

[0082] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump-starting device having a current sharing configuration for charging or jump-starting a depleted or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including: a rechargeable battery; a power switch configured to turn on or off power from the rechargeable battery to the depleted or discharged battery, the power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement; a positive battery cable connected to the rechargeable battery, the positive battery cable having a positive battery terminal connector for connecting to a positive terminal of the depleted or discharged battery; and a negative battery cable connected to the power switch, the negative battery cable having a negative battery terminal connector for connecting to the positive terminal of the depleted or discharged battery, the power switch being in circuit with the rechargeable battery to power the depleted or discharged battery from the rechargeable battery during a charging operation of the jump-starting device; and a USB charging circuit electrically connecting an input USB connector to the rechargeable battery, the USB charging circuit including a DC-DC converter configured to increase a voltage between the input USB connector and the rechargeable battery.

[0083] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump-starting device having a current sharing configuration for charging or jump-starting a depleted or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including: a rechargeable battery; a power switch configured to turn on or off power from the rechargeable battery to the depleted or discharged battery, the power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement; a positive battery cable connected to the rechargeable battery, the positive battery cable having a positive battery terminal connector for connecting to a positive terminal of the depleted or discharged battery; and a negative battery cable connected to the power switch, the negative battery cable having a negative battery terminal connector for connecting to the positive terminal of the depleted or discharged battery, the power switch being circuit connected with the rechargeable battery to turn on power from the rechargeable battery to the depleted or discharged battery during a charging operation of the jump-starting device, and further including an input USB connector configured to charge the rechargeable battery; and an output USB connector configured to charge one or more external electrical devices.

[0084] The subject matter described herein is directed to a jump-starting device having a current sharing configuration for charging or jump-starting a dead or discharged battery, the jump-starting device including: a rechargeable battery; a power switch configured to turn on or off power from the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery, the power switch including one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement; a positive battery cable connected to the rechargeable battery, the positive battery cable having a positive battery terminal connector for connecting to a positive terminal of the dead or discharged battery; and a negative battery cable connected to the power switch, the negative battery cable having a negative battery terminal connector for connecting to the positive terminal of the dead or discharged battery, the power switch being in circuit with the rechargeable battery to turn on power from the rechargeable battery to the dead or discharged battery during a charging operation of the jump-starting device, and further including a control system or circuitry electrically connected to and controlling the power switch, the control system or circuitry being configured to detect both the presence and polarity of the dead or discharged battery when electrically connected between the positive battery terminal connector and the negative battery terminal connector.

[0085] safety features According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for jump-starting a vehicle engine, the apparatus including: an internal power source; an output port having a positive output and a negative output; a vehicle battery isolation sensor in circuit connection with the positive output and the negative output and configured to detect the presence of a vehicle battery connected between the positive output and the negative output; a reverse polarity sensor in circuit connection with the positive output and the negative output and configured to detect the polarity of a vehicle battery connected between the positive output and the negative output; a power FET switch connected between the internal power source and the output port; and a microcontroller configured to receive input signals from the vehicle isolation sensor and the reverse polarity sensor and provide an output signal to the power FET switch such that in response to a signal from the sensor indicating the presence of a vehicle battery at the output port and a proper polarity connection of the positive and negative terminals of the vehicle battery to the positive and negative outputs, the power FET switch is turned on to connect the internal power source to the output port.

[0086] According to another aspect of the invention, the internal power source is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack.

[0087] In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, a jumper cable device is provided, the device having a plug configured to plug into an output port of a portable battery charger booster device having an internal power source, and a pair of cables integral with the plug at one end each, the pair of cables configured to be separately connected to battery terminals at the other end each. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0088] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a portable battery boost device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2A-1] FIG. 2A-1 is a schematic circuit diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a portable battery boost device according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 2A-2]FIG. 2A-2 is a schematic circuit diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a portable battery boost device according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 2A-3] 2A-3 are schematic circuit diagrams of exemplary embodiments of portable battery boost devices according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 2A-4] 2A-4 are schematic circuit diagrams of exemplary embodiments of portable battery boost devices according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 2B-1] FIG. 2B-1 is a schematic circuit diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a portable battery boost device according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 2B-2] FIG. 2B-2 is a schematic circuit diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a portable battery boost device according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 2B-3] FIG. 2B-3 is a schematic circuit diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a portable battery boost device according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 2B-4] 2B-4 are schematic circuit diagrams of exemplary embodiments of portable battery boost devices according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 2C-1] FIG. 2C-1 is a schematic circuit diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a portable battery boost device according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 2C-2] FIG. 2C-2 is a schematic circuit diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a portable battery boost device according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 2C-3] 2C-3 is a schematic circuit diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a portable battery boost device according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portable jump starter boost device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a plan view of a jumper cable that can be used with a portable jump starter boost device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram of an example jump starter according to one embodiment of the present invention, including a power switch according to the present invention, and providing a current sharing arrangement between a relay and multiple FETs. [Figure 6]FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a circuit configured to provide dead or discharged battery detection (ie, to detect the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to a jump starter). [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a circuit configured to provide active dead or discharged battery detection (i.e., to also detect the presence of a dead or discharged battery connected to a jump starter). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0089] FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a portable battery booster according to one embodiment of the present invention. At the heart of the portable battery booster is a lithium polymer battery pack 32, which stores enough energy to jump-start a vehicle engine powered by a conventional 12-volt lead-acid battery or a valve-regulated lead-acid battery. In one example embodiment, the high-surge lithium polymer battery pack includes three 3.7V, 2666mAh lithium polymer batteries in a 351P configuration. The battery pack provides a total of 11.1V, 2666Ah (8000Ah at 3.7V, 29.6Wh). The continuous discharge current is 25C (or 200 amps) and the burst discharge current is 50C (or 400 amps). The battery pack's maximum charge current is 8000mA (8 amps).

[0090] A programmable microcontroller unit (MCU) 1 receives various inputs and generates information and control outputs. The programmable MCU 1 provides flexibility to the system by allowing functionality and system parameter updates without hardware modifications. According to one example embodiment, an 8-bit microcontroller with 2K x 15 bits of flash memory is used to control the system. One such microcontroller is the HT67F30, available from Holtek Semiconductor Inc.

[0091] The car battery reverse sensor 10 monitors the polarity of the vehicle battery 72 when the portable battery booster device is connected to the vehicle's electrical system. As explained below, the booster device prevents a lithium battery pack from being connected to the vehicle battery 72 if the terminals of the vehicle battery 72 are connected to the wrong terminals of the booster device. The car battery isolation sensor 12 detects whether the vehicle battery 72 is connected to the booster device and prevents a lithium battery pack from being connected to the output terminals of the booster device unless there is a good (e.g., rechargeable) battery connected to the output terminals.

[0092] The smart switch FET circuit 15 electrically switches the portable battery booster lithium battery into the vehicle's electrical system only when the MCU 1 determines that a vehicle battery is present (in response to a detection signal from the isolation sensor 12) and connected with the correct polarity (in response to a detection signal from the reverse sensor 10). The lithium battery temperature sensor 20 monitors the temperature of the lithium battery pack 32 to detect overheating due to high ambient temperature conditions or excessive current draw during jump starts. The lithium battery voltage measurement circuit 24 monitors the voltage of the lithium battery pack 32 to prevent it from becoming too high during charging operations or too low during discharging operations.

[0093] The lithium battery reverse charge protection diode 28 prevents charging current supplied to the vehicle battery 72 from flowing back from the vehicle's electrical system into the lithium battery pack 32. The flashlight LED circuit 36 ​​provides a flashlight function for illuminating under the vehicle's hood in dark conditions, as well as SOS and strobe lighting functions for safety when the vehicle is disabled in potentially dangerous locations. The voltage regulator 42 regulates the internal operating voltage of the microcontroller and sensors. The on / off manual mode and flashlight switch 46 allow the user to control power-on of the portable battery booster device, manual override operation when the vehicle has no battery, and flashlight function. The manual button only functions when the booster device is powered on. This button can be used to jump-start vehicles that have no battery or whose battery voltage is too low for automatic detection by the MCU. To prevent accidental activation of the manual mode, the user can press and hold the manual override button for a predetermined period of time (e.g., three seconds) to switch power from the internal lithium-ion battery to the vehicle battery connection port. The only exception to the manual override is if the car battery is reversed, in which case the internal Li-ion battery power will not be switched to the vehicle battery connection port.

[0094] The USB charging circuit 52 converts power from any USB charger source into charging voltage and current for charging the lithium battery pack 32. The USB output 56 provides a USB portable charger for charging smartphones, tablets, and other rechargeable electronic devices. The operation indicator LED 60 visually indicates the capacity status of the lithium battery and indicates the activation status of the smart switch (indicating that power is being supplied to the vehicle's electrical system).

[0095] Next, the detailed operation of the portable booster device will be described with reference to the schematic diagrams of Figures 2A-1 to 2C-3. As shown in Figure 2A-2, the microcontroller unit 1 is the central point for all inputs and outputs. The reverse battery sensor 10 includes an opto-isolator phototransistor (4N27) connected to the terminals of the vehicle battery 72 at input pins 1 and 2, and a diode D8 is provided in the lead conductor of pin 1 (associated with the negative terminal CB-). When the battery 72 is connected to the terminals of the booster device with the correct polarity, the optocoupler LED11 does not conduct current and is therefore off, providing a "1" or high output signal to the MCU1. The vehicle battery isolation sensor 12 includes an opto-coupled isolator phototransistor (4N27) connected to the terminals of the vehicle battery 72 at input pins 1 and 2, and a diode D7 is provided in the lead conductor of pin 1 (associated with the positive terminal CB+), so that when the battery 72 is connected to the terminals of the booster device with the correct polarity, the optocoupler LED 11A conducts current and therefore lights up, providing a "0" or low output signal to the MCU, indicating the presence of a battery across the jumper output terminals of the portable booster device.

[0096] If the car battery 72 is connected to the portable booster device with reverse polarity, the optocoupler LED11 of the reverse sensor 10 conducts current and provides a "0" or low signal to the microcontroller unit 1. Furthermore, if no battery is connected to the portable booster device, the optocoupler LED11A of the isolation sensor 12 does not conduct current and is off, providing a "1" or high output signal to the MCU 1, indicating that no battery is connected to the portable booster device. Using these specific inputs, the microcontroller software in the MCU 1 can determine when it is safe to turn on the smart switch FET 15 and connect the lithium battery pack to the jumper terminals of the booster device. As a result, if the car battery 72 is not connected to the booster device at all or is connected with reverse polarity, the MCU 1 will not turn on the smart switch FET 15, preventing sparks / short circuits of the lithium battery pack.

[0097] As shown in FIG. 2B-2, the FET smart switch 15 is driven by the output of the microcontroller 1. The FET smart switch 15 includes three FETs (Q15, Q18, and Q19) in parallel, distributing power from the lithium battery pack across the FETs. When the microcontroller output is driven logic low, the FETs 16 are all in a high-resistance state, thus preventing current from flowing from the internal lithium battery negative contact 17 to the car battery 72 negative contact. When the microcontroller output is driven logic high, the FETs 16 (Q15, Q18, and Q19) are in a low-resistance state, allowing current to flow freely from the internal lithium battery pack negative contact 17 (LB-) to the car battery 72 negative contact (CB-). In this way, the microcontroller software controls the connection of the internal lithium battery pack 32 to the vehicle battery 72 to jump-start the car engine.

[0098] Returning to Figure 2A-1, the voltage of the internal lithium battery pack can be accurately measured using circuit 24 and one of the analog and digital inputs of microcontroller 1. Circuit 24 is designed to sense when the voltage of main 3.3V regulator 42 is on and turn on transistor 23 when regulator 42 is on. When transistor 23 conducts, FET 22 turns on, thereby providing a conductive path from the internal lithium battery's positive terminal (LB+) to voltage divider 21, providing a low-voltage range for reading by the microcontroller. Using this input, the microcontroller software can determine if the lithium battery's voltage is too low during a discharging operation or too high during a charging operation and take appropriate action to prevent damage to the electronics.

[0099] Still referring to FIG. 2A-1, the temperature of the internal lithium battery pack 32 can be accurately measured by two negative temperature coefficient (NTC) devices 20. These are devices whose resistance decreases as temperature increases. This circuit is a voltage divider, and the results are fed to two analog-to-digital (A / D) inputs of the microcontroller 1. The microcontroller software determines when the internal lithium battery becomes too hot to jump start, adding safety to the design.

[0100] The main voltage regulator circuit 42 is designed to convert the internal lithium battery voltage to a regulated 3.3 volts, which is utilized by the microcontroller 1 and other components of the booster device for internal operating power. Three lithium battery reverse charge protection diodes 28 (see Figure 2B-1) are installed to ensure that current flows only from the internal lithium battery pack 32 to the car battery 72, and not from the car battery to the internal lithium battery. In this way, the internal lithium battery cannot be reverse charged (and thereby damaged) when the vehicle's electrical system is charging from the alternator, providing an additional level of safety. The main power on switch 46 (Figure 2A-1) is a double-pole, double-throw combination that, with a single push, turns the product on if it is in the off state and off if it is in the on state. The circuit also uses the microcontroller output 47 to "live" the power supply when activated by the on switch. The microcontroller drives this output to a high logic level when the switch is pressed, leaving the power on when the switch is released. In this way, the microcontroller continues to control when the power will turn off, either when the on / off switch is activated again or if the lithium battery voltage gets too low. The microcontroller software also includes a timer that will turn the power off after a predefined period of time (e.g., eight hours).

[0101] The flashlight LED circuit 45, shown in Figure 2B-3, controls the operation of the flashlight LED. Two outputs from the microcontroller 1 are dedicated to two separate LEDs. Therefore, the LEDs can be independently software-controlled for strobe and SOS patterns, providing yet another safety feature for the booster device. The LED indicators provide the necessary feedback for the operator to understand what is happening with the product. Four individual LEDs 61 (Figure 2A) are controlled by corresponding individual outputs from the microcontroller 1 to indicate the remaining capacity of the internal lithium battery. These LEDs are controlled in a "fuel gauge" style, indicating 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% capacity (red, red, yellow, green). The LED indicator 63 (Figure 2B-4) provides a visual warning to the user if the vehicle battery 72 is connected with reverse polarity. The "Boost" and on / off LEDs 62 provide a visual indication when the booster device is providing jump-start power and when the booster device is turned on, respectively.

[0102] The USB output 56 circuit (Figure 2C-1) is included to provide a USB output for charging portable electronic devices such as smartphones from the internal lithium battery pack 32. A control circuit 57 from the microcontroller 1 allows the USB output 56 to be turned on and off under software control to prevent the internal lithium battery from running too low. The USB output is brought external to the device through a standard USB connector 58, which includes the standard voltage divider necessary to enable charging for certain smartphones that require it. The USB charging circuit 52 allows charging of the internal lithium battery pack 32 using a standard USB charger. This charging input uses a standard micro-USB connector 48, allowing the use of a standard cable. The 5V potential provided by the standard USB charger is boosted using a DC-DC converter 49 to the 12.4VDC voltage required to charge the internal lithium battery pack. The DC-DC converter 49 can be turned on and off via circuit 53 by an output from the microcontroller 1.

[0103] In this way, the microcontroller software can turn off charging if the battery voltage is measured to be too high by the A / D input 22. Additionally, safety is provided to help eliminate overcharging the internal lithium battery by using a lithium battery charge controller 50 that provides charge balancing to the internal lithium battery cells 51. This controller also provides safety redundancy to eliminate over-discharging of the internal lithium battery.

[0104] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portable device 300 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 301 is a power-on switch. 302 shows an LED "fuel gauge" indicator 61. 303 shows a 12-volt output port that can be connected to a cable arrangement 400, described further below. 304 shows a flashlight control switch for activating the flashlight LED 45. 305 is a USB input port for charging the internal lithium battery, and 306 is a USB output port for supplying charge from the lithium battery to other portable devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and music players. 307 is a "boost on" indicator that shows power is being applied to the 12-volt output port. 308 is a "reverse" indicator that shows if the vehicle battery is improperly connected with respect to polarity. 309 is a "power on" indicator that shows the device is powering up for operation.

[0105] FIG. 4 illustrates a jumper cable device 400 specifically designed for use with a portable device 300. The device 400 includes a plug 401 configured to plug into the 12-volt output port 303 of the portable device 300. A pair of cables 402a and 402b are integrated with the plug 401 and connected to battery terminal clamps 403a and 403b, respectively, via ring terminals 404a and 404b. The port 303 and plug 401 can be dimensioned so that the plug 401 fits into the port 303 only in a specific orientation, such that clamp 403a corresponds to positive polarity and clamp 403b corresponds to negative polarity, as shown. Additionally, the ring terminals 404a and 404b can be disconnected from the clamps and connected directly to the terminals of a vehicle battery. This feature is convenient, for example, for permanently attaching the cables 302a-302b to a vehicle battery. If the battery voltage drops, simply inserting plug 401 into port 303 will properly connect portable booster device 300 to the battery.

[0106] Current Sharing Switch Configuration and Safety Switches A jump starter 510 according to the present invention having a power switch 511 (e.g., a smart switch) with a current sharing configuration according to the present invention is shown in Figure 5. The smart switch may be connected to and controlled by a microcontroller of the jump starter 510.

[0107] As shown in FIG. 5, the jump starter 510 includes a lithium-ion rechargeable battery 522, a power switch 511, a conductor 520 (e.g., a solid conductor, a conductive metal plate or rod, a bus bar), a positive (+) battery clamp 24, and a negative (-) battery clamp 526.

[0108] The positive (+) terminal of the lithium ion rechargeable battery 522 is connected to the positive (+) terminal of the battery, and the negative (−) terminal of the lithium ion rechargeable battery 522 is connected to the power switch 511 .

[0109] Power switch 511 includes a relay 512 (i.e., a primary switch) having a switch 512a and a coil 512b, and a group of FETs 514, 516, and 518 (i.e., secondary switches) arranged in parallel with relay 512. FET1 514, FET2 516, and FETN 518 include GATE1, GATE2, and GATE N, respectively. The outputs of relay 512 and FETs 514, 516, and 518 are connected to a common conductor 520.

[0110] Conductor 520 is constructed or configured to be able to accept a significant amount of electrical current. For example, conductor 520 may be a heavy-duty conductor made of a conductive metal such as copper or aluminum, configured as a heavy-gauge wire, plate, bar, rod, tube, bus bar, or other suitable configuration to handle or accept large currents without damage. For example, conductor 520 may be configured, designed, or tuned to accommodate the same, similar, or different current levels or rates output from relay 512 and FETs 514, 516, and 518 to conductor 520 leading to negative (-) battery clamp 524. For example, FETs 514, 516, and 518 may supply increased or decreased current rates from different FETs depending on the configuration of conductor 520 to minimize damage to relay 512 and / or FETs 514, 516, and 518 from high current levels and / or power surges.

[0111] Relay 512 may be configured to allow the same or similar amount of current as FETs 514, 516, and 518. Alternatively, relay 512 may be configured to allow a much larger current than FETs 514, 516, and 518. For example, FETs 514, 516, and 518 are bypass switches that allow approximately ten percent (10%) to fifteen percent (15%) of the current through power switch 511, and relay 512 is configured to allow approximately eighty-five percent (85%) to ninety percent (90%) of the current through power switch 511.

[0112] To initiate the charging operation of jump starter 510, relay switch 512a is closed to charge a depleted or discharged battery appropriately connected to positive battery clamp 524 and negative battery clamp 526. For example, a portion of the current from lithium-ion battery 522 begins to flow through relay 512, and after a short delay (e.g., 1 / 100 millisecond delay timing), current begins to flow through FET groups 514, 516, and 518. Thus, the switching operation of power switch 511 may include a sequence that first closes relay 512, followed by FET groups 514, 516, and 518. This sequence prevents relay 512 and FET groups 514, 516, and 518 from being damaged by the current flowing through power switch 511.

[0113] Additionally, the operation may include a sequence that first opens power switch 511 by opening FETs 514, 516, 518 (e.g., after initially closing them), followed by opening relay 512. For example, relay 512 may open after a small delay (e.g., 1 / 100 millisecond delay timing) after the FETs are opened.

[0114] Thus, the overall sequence for switching power switch 511 is relay 512 opens first, FET group 514, 516, 518 opens second, FET group 514, 516, 518 closes first, and relay 512 closes second.

[0115] The current flows through relay 512 and FETs 514, 516, and 518 to conductor 520 where the currents join.

[0116] The invention being thus described, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that the same can be varied in many ways without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention, and all such modifications are intended to be encompassed by the following claims.

[0117] Battery detection for safety A jump starter according to the present invention may, for example, include both a dead or discharged battery detector and an active dead or discharged battery detector, e.g., the dead or discharged battery detector is a vehicle battery detector (e.g., a car battery detector) and the active dead or discharged battery detector is an active vehicle battery detector (e.g., an active car battery detector).

[0118] For example, FIG. 6 shows a circuit for a dead or discharged battery detector 610 according to the present invention for use in a jump starter according to the present invention.

[0119] The dead or discharged battery detector 610 includes one or more optoisolators 817C for detecting the presence of a dead or discharged battery.

[0120] A jump starter according to the present invention includes a system that uses information from the dead or discharged battery detector 610, as well as inputs from the short circuit detector, the dead or discharged battery reverse polarity detector, and the active dead or discharged battery detector, to determine whether to apply power from the jump starter to the dead or discharged battery during a charge cycle or a boost cycle (e.g., in auto boost mode) by closing a jump starter switch (e.g., a smart switch).

[0121] During a boost cycle (e.g., after the smart switch is closed), if the dead or discharged battery and the jump starter's internal battery are so close in potential that the automatic dead or discharged battery detector detects that no current is flowing, the system will temporarily open the smart switch and the dead or discharged battery detector will verify that the dead or discharged battery is still attached to the jump starter's battery clamps.

[0122] For example, a circuit for an active dead or discharged battery detector 640 according to the present invention is shown in FIG. 7 for use in a jump starter according to the present invention.

[0123] The active depleted or discharged battery detector 640 includes an op-amp-based circuit that measures the current flow across the smart switch (i.e., the current flow from the jump starter's internal battery to the depleted or discharged battery).

[0124] The "zero point" is set so that current flow can be measured in both directions (i.e., from the jump starter's internal battery to the dead or discharged battery, or vice versa).

[0125] When the battery clamp is connected to a dead or discharged battery, the active dead or discharged battery detection value (AN1) will drop below the "zero point" when the dead or discharged battery voltage is higher than the jump starter's internal battery voltage. Therefore, the system checks this signal after a dead or discharged battery is detected by the dead or discharged battery detector in the battery clamp and before entering autoboost mode, which prevents a high-voltage dead or discharged battery from being connected to the system.

[0126] During automatic fast charging, current flow is constantly measured to ensure that, for example, battery clamps do not suddenly come loose and short circuit the battery to the vehicle chassis.

[0127] In contrast, if the jump starter does not have a blocking diode, current can flow in both directions between the jump starter's internal battery and the dead or discharged battery. For example, if the dead or discharged battery is extremely discharged (e.g., below the vehicle's alternator voltage), an algorithm can be used to cause the jump starter's internal battery to be recharged by the dead or discharged battery.

[0128] If current is detected flowing from the dead or discharged battery to the jump starter's internal battery, the algorithm can determine the time to flow reverse charging current from the dead or discharged battery to the jump starter's internal battery, taking into account the battery capacity, maximum charging current, and battery temperature of the jump starter's internal battery.

[0129] The system can terminate charging or boosting a depleted or discharged battery (e.g., smart switch off) when the above parameters are met or when an automatic timer expires (e.g., in auto-boost mode).

Claims

1. 1. A jump start device for charging or fast charging a dead or discharged battery, comprising: The jump start device A rechargeable battery and a positive battery connector for connecting a jump start device to the positive terminal of a dead or discharged battery; a negative battery connector for connecting the jump start device to the negative terminal of a dead or discharged battery; a power switch for connecting the rechargeable battery to the depleted or discharged battery during a charging operation of the depleted or discharged battery; an active depleted or discharged battery detector configured to detect the presence of a depleted or discharged battery during a charging operation; If the dead or discharged battery and the rechargeable battery are at very close potentials and no current is detected by the active dead or discharged battery detector, the power switch is opened, disconnecting the rechargeable battery from the dead or discharged battery. Device.

2. the active depleted or discharged battery detector includes one or more operational amplifiers; 10. The apparatus of claim 1.

3. the one or more operational amplifiers are configured to measure a current flowing across the power switch; 3. The apparatus of claim 2.

4. further comprising a short circuit detector; 10. The apparatus of claim 1.

5. further comprising a reverse polarity detector; 10. The apparatus of claim 1.

6. further comprising a reverse polarity detector; 5. The apparatus of claim 4.

7. the power switch includes one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement; The power switch is in circuit connection with the rechargeable battery for applying power to a depleted or discharged battery from the rechargeable battery during charging operation of the jump start device.

10. The apparatus of claim 1.

8. The rechargeable battery is a lithium-ion rechargeable battery, 10. The apparatus of claim 1.

9. the one or more primary switches and the one or more secondary switches allow the same amount of current during a charging operation of the jump start device; 8. The apparatus of claim 7.

10. the one or more primary switches allow a greater current than the one or more secondary switches during a charging operation of the jump start device; 8. The apparatus of claim 7.

11. the one or more secondary switches are one or more bypass switches; 11. The apparatus of claim 10.

12. The power switch is a smart switch controlled by a microcontroller, 10. The apparatus of claim 1.

13. The smart switch is configured to operate in a sequence that first turns on or closes one or more primary switches, and then turns on or closes one or more secondary switches; 13. The apparatus of claim 12.

14. The one or more secondary switches are turned on after a 100 millisecond delay.

14. The apparatus of claim 13.

15. the one or more primary switches are one or more relays; the one or more secondary switches are one or more FETs; 11. The apparatus of claim 10.

16. the one or more primary switches are one or more FETs and the one or more secondary switches are one or more relays; 11. The apparatus of claim 10.

17. It further includes conductors connected to the outputs of the one or more primary switches and the one or more secondary switches.

8. The apparatus of claim 7.

18. the conductors are heavy gauge conductors configured to allow a significant amount of charging current without damage; 18. The apparatus of claim 17.

19. Heavy gauge conductors are made of conductive metals, 20. The apparatus of claim 18.

20. Heavy gauge conductors may be plates, bars, rods, tubes, or busbars.

20. The apparatus of claim 19.

21. The smart switch is configured to operate in a sequence that first turns off or opens one or more secondary switches, and then turns off or opens one or more primary switches; 14. The apparatus of claim 13.

22. the power switch includes one or more primary switches and one or more secondary switches electrically connected together in a parallel arrangement; 10. The apparatus of claim 1.

23. the one or more secondary switches are one or more bypass switches that allow less current than the one or more primary switches; 23. The apparatus of claim 22.

24. further including an input USB port; 10. The apparatus of claim 1.

25. the input USB port includes an input USB connector connected to a USB charging circuit, the USB charging circuit electrically connecting the input USB connector to a rechargeable battery; 25. The apparatus of claim 24.

26. the USB charging circuit is configured to increase the voltage from the input USB connector to the rechargeable battery; 26. The apparatus of claim 25.

27. the USB charging circuit includes a DC-DC converter configured to increase the voltage from the input USB connector to the rechargeable battery; 27. The apparatus of claim 26.

28. further including an input USB port configured to charge the rechargeable battery and an output USB port configured to charge one or more external electrical devices using the rechargeable battery; 10. The apparatus of claim 1.

29. a control system or circuitry electrically connected to the power switch and controlling the power switch; The control system or circuit is configured to detect both the presence and polarity of a dead or discharged battery when electrically connected between the positive and negative battery terminal connectors; 10. The apparatus of claim 1.

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