Charging micromobility vehicles

Abstract

A connector (111) for charging a micromobility vehicle MV. The micromobility vehicle comprises an elongate element SP and a battery BA. The connector comprises an inlet (133a) (into which the elongate element is relatively movable transverse to the elongate element), a blocking portion (137) (to block the elongate element moving relatively outwards), one or more threaded elements, a power receiver (111a) (for receiving electricity), and a power transmitter (111f) for transmitting the electricity to the battery. The inlet comprises a converging section (133aii). Side portions (134) of the converging section inwardly converge relative to each other. The one or more threaded elements comprise torque receivers by which the one or more threaded elements are rotatable to urge the blocking portion, inwards relative to the inlet, to clamp the elongate element against both of the side portions.

Description

[0001] CHARGING MICROMOBILITY VEHICLES

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The invention relates to charging micromobility vehicles.

[0004] BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

[0005] "Micromobility vehicle" is an umbrella term embracing bicycles, tricycles and scooters amongst other things.

[0006] There are a variety of locks for securing micromobility vehicles, e.g. bicycles are sometimes secured by a short length of chain passed through the bicycle frame and about a lamp post then connected end-to-end with a padlock to hold the bicycle until the operator returns with the key to unlock the padlock. Typically, users must carry their own lock which is inconvenient. Moreover, some neighborhoods are blighted by a chaos of micromobility vehicles locked to lamp posts, fences and railings.

[0007] Electric micromobility vehicles are becoming more popular and the assortment of electric micromobility vehicles is accompanied by an assortment of dedicated charging arrangements.

[0008] Different batteries have different charger-output parameters, e.g. some batteries require 36V whereas others require 12V. Various commercially available battery and charger systems implement a combination of mechanical and electrical safeguards to reduce the risk of a battery being presented with an inappropriate charger output. Various brand-specific plugs have been developed to reduce the risk of a battery being plugged into another brand's charger. The electrical safeguards comprise electronic handshakes between battery systems and chargers before the cells of the batteries are exposed to the full output of the charger. The Bosch™ PowerPack 500 is a battery system comprising a battery and electronics separating the battery from the outside world. The electronics comprise three conductors: positive, negative and signal. The electronics enable charging output to be supplied to the batteries (via the positive and negative conductors) in response to a 5V signal via the signal conductor. The Shimano™ BT-E8010 battery is a battery system comprising a battery and gatekeeping electronics. The gatekeeping electronics comprise five conductors. A digital handshake is initiated using a 3.5V line, a transmission line, a receiving line and ground, and in response to that handshake a 36V charger-output is supplied to the batteries via the ground and a 36V line. The invention aims to provide improvements, or at least alternatives, in and for securing and charging micromobility vehicles.

[0009] SUMMARY

[0010] One aspect of the invention provides a connector for charging a micromobility vehicle; wherein the micromobility vehicle comprises an elongate element and a battery; the connector comprises an inlet into which the elongate element is relatively movable transverse to the elongate element; a blocking portion to block the elongate element moving relatively outwards; one or more threaded elements; a power receiver for receiving electricity; and a power transmitter for transmitting the electricity to the battery; the inlet comprises a converging section; side portions of the converging section inwardly converge relative to each other; and the one or more threaded elements comprise torque receivers by which the one or more threaded elements are rotatable to urge the blocking portion, inwards relative to the inlet, to clamp the elongate element against both of the side portions. Preferably, at least one of a) the torque receivers are security torque receivers; and b) the connector comprises one or more shields for shielding the torque receivers; to impede nefarious reverse rotation of the one or more threaded elements.

[0011] The connector may comprise a body within which the shields are recessed.

[0012] The blocking portion may be configured to extend into the converging section. Optionally, the connector is configurable to clamp on to an element less than 25 mm in diameter, e.g. to clamp on to an 020 mm element. Optionally, the connector is configurable to clamp on to an element more than 35 mm or, more preferably, more than 50 mm in diameter, e.g. to clamp on to an 070 mm element.

[0013] Another aspect of the invention provides a system for charging and securing vehicles; wherein each respective vehicle of the vehicles is a respective micromobility vehicle and comprises a respective battery and respective embraceable portion; the system comprises connectors and one or more chargers; the connectors comprise a respective connector for each respective vehicle; each respective connector comprises a respective mounting arrangement by which the respective connector is mountable on any selected embraceable portion within a range of embraceable portions comprising 030 mm portions and 050 mm portions; a respective power transmitter for transmitting power to the respective battery; and each respective charger of the chargers comprises a respective at least one engageable portion; and a respective tether tethering the respective at least one engageable portion; and each respective at least one engageable portion is engageable with each respective connector to convey the power to the respective connector and secure the respective vehicle.

[0014] The range of embraceable portions optionally comprises 020 mm portions and / or 070 mm portions.

[0015] The tether preferably has a functional length of at least 0.5 m long, e.g. at least 0.8 m long. Optionally, the tether is a retractable tether.

[0016] Each respective at least one engageable portion may be a respective engageable unit.

[0017] Preferably, each respective engageable portion is received within each respective connector to convey the power to the respective connector and secure the respective vehicle.

[0018] Optionally, each respective connector comprises a respective locking mechanism to hold the respective at least one engageable portion. Optionally, each respective tether comprises a respective protective sheath internally carrying respective conductors. In an embodiment, each respective at least one engageable portion defines at least five conduction paths.

[0019] Another aspect of the invention provides a charger for charging vehicles; wherein each respective vehicle of the vehicles is a respective micromobility vehicle and comprises a respective battery; the charger comprises a respective at least one engageable portion; and a respective tether tethering the respective at least one engageable portion; and each respective at least one engageable portion is engageable with each respective vehicle to convey the power to the respective the battery and secure the respective vehicle; and the tether has a functional length of at least 0.5 m.

[0020] Another aspect of the invention provides a charger for charging vehicles; wherein each respective vehicle of the vehicles is a respective micromobility vehicle and comprises a respective battery; the vehicles have charger-output parameters; two or more respective charger-output parameters of the charger-output parameters are mutually different; and the charger comprises a respective information receiver, to receive information characterising the respective charger-output parameters; and has a respective charger output that varies in response to the respective information receiver.

[0021] Optionally, the information receiver comprises a wireless-signal receiver.

[0022] Another aspect of the invention provides a connector; wherein a charger is for charging vehicles; each respective vehicle of the vehicles is a respective micromobility vehicle; comprises a respective battery; and has respective charger-output parameters; two or more of the vehicles have mutually different charger-output parameters; the connector comprises a mounting arrangement by which the connector is mountable on a selected vehicle of the vehicles; a power receiver for receiving electricity from the charger; and a power transmitter for transmitting the electricity to the battery of the selected vehicle; an electronic identifier; wherein the electronic identifier is responsive to a signal from the charger to convey information characterising charger-output parameters of the selected vehicle; and reconfigurable to suit each of the two or more vehicles.

[0023] Another aspect of the invention provides a lock comprising a housing having an interior, an exterior and a dock body; the dock-body defining a dock opening from the exterior and into which an engageable element is insertable; and having a transverse-opening; a latching element movable from disengaged position to an engaged position at which the latching element is engaged with the engageable element via the transverse-opening to latch the engageable element; and the dock body about a sealing interface encircling the transverse-opening to limit water ingress via the transverse-opening.

[0024] Another aspect of the invention provides a plug co-operable with a connector and comprising an engageable element to be received and latched by the connector; and contacts spaced from the engageable element and co-operable with complementary contacts of the the connector to transmit power to the connector.

[0025] Another aspect of the invention provides a plug in combination with the connector, wherein the plug and the connector are magnetically co-operable to magnetically urge the connector and the plug relatively towards mutual engagement.

[0026] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0027] Figures 1 , 2 and 3 are perspective, front and side views of a charging apparatus and a bicycle;

[0028] Figure 4 is a rear perspective view of a charging apparatus and a bicycle;

[0029] Figure 5 is a rear perspective view of the charging apparatus of Figure 4 in its standby configuration;

[0030] Figure 6 is a rear perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 5 in its operative configuration;

[0031] Figure 7 is an enlargement of detail B in Figure 6 showing an operative portion; Figure 8 is a perspective view of the operative portion, a tube and a connector;

[0032] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the connector;

[0033] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a bicycle;

[0034] Figure 11 is a perspective view of a scooter;

[0035] Figure 12 is a rear perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 5 and the scooter of Figure 11 ;

[0036] Figure 13 is a perspective view of a charging apparatus;

[0037] Figure 14 is an enlargement of detail B in Figure 13;

[0038] Figure 15 is a cross-section view of the operative portion of the apparatus of Figure 27;

[0039] Figure 16 is a perspective view of a connector co-operable with the apparatus of Figure 13;

[0040] Figure 17 is a cross-section view of the connector of Figure 16 engaged with a large tube;

[0041] Figure 18 is a cross-section view of the connector of Figure 16 engaged with a small tube;

[0042] Figure 19 is a front perspective view of a connector;

[0043] Figure 20 is a rear perspective view of key mounting components of the connector;

[0044] Figure 21 is a front perspective view of the key mounting components and a main body of the connector;

[0045] Figures 22a, 22b and 22c are cross-section views of the connector in three distinct configurations; Figure 23 is a perspective view of a scooter comprising the connector;

[0046] Figure 24 is a rear perspective view of a bicycle comprising the connector and cooperating with a charger;

[0047] Figure 25 is a cross-section view of a post of the charger;

[0048] Figure 26 is a perspective cut-away view of a cable of the charger;

[0049] Figure 27 is an elevation of the cable and a plug of the charger in which a sheath of the plug is extended;

[0050] Figure 28 is a cross-section view of the plug and the cable in which the sheath is retracted;

[0051] Figure 29 is a perspective view of the plug in which the sheath is retracted and a body portion is omitted to show the internal components;

[0052] Figures 30 and 31 schematically illustrate paired charger-vehicle combinations;

[0053] Figure 32 is a front perspective view of a connector and a plug;

[0054] Figure 33 is a rear perspective view of the connector and the plug;

[0055] Figure 34 is a rear perspective view of the connector with its housing portion omitted;

[0056] Figure 35 is a rear perspective view of the connector with further components omitted;

[0057] Figures 36 to 38 are transverse cross-section views through the connector and the plug;

[0058] Figure 39 is a partially exploded front perspective view of the connector;

[0059] Figure 40 is a perspective view of a docking station; Figure 41 is an enlargement of the top of the docking station;

[0060] Figure 42 is a main flow diagram for the connector;

[0061] Figure 43 is a state machine diagram for the connector;

[0062] Figure 44 is a flow diagram of the idle state;

[0063] Figure 45 is a flow diagram of the comms-only state;

[0064] Figure 46 is a flow diagram of the ready-to-charge state;

[0065] Figures 47a to 47c are together a flow diagram of the charging state;

[0066] Figure 48 is a flow diagram of a fault state;

[0067] Figure 49 is a flow diagram of the fully-charged state;

[0068] Figures 50a, 50b together schematically illustrate a paired charger and connector; and

[0069] Figures 51 , 52 and 53 are logical flow diagrams for charging Bosch™, Shimano™ and Bafang™ batteries.

[0070] DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0071] The apparatus 1' is a charger for charging micromobility vehicles and comprises an operative portion 3' carried at the end of a horizontal arm 5'. The arm 5' extends sideways (that is, sideways with respect to the bicycle B) from a post 7'. The arm 5' is mounted to move up and down the post 7'. In its operative position, the operative portion 3' sits directly above an upwardly open guide channel 9'. The guide channel 9' engages the tyres of the bicycle B to align the bike in its parking position ready for charging, that is align the bicycle B with respect to the apparatus 1'.

[0072] Figures 4 and 12 illustrate another apparatus 1 for charging and securing micromobility vehicles, e.g. vehicles such as the bicycle B and the scooter SC. The apparatus 1 comprises components 3, 5, 7, 9 analogous to components 3', 5', 7', 9'. Figures 4, 5 and 6 show the apparatus 1 in its deployed and standby configurations respectively.

[0073] The arm 5 carries the operative portion 3 and is mounted to pivot about pivotal mounting 13 of a carriage 15 that is mounted to slide up and down the post 7.

[0074] Advantageously the post 1 is shorter than the handlebars HB so that the handlebars can simply pass straight over the post 1 . In another variant the lateral clearances, between the post and a centreline of the bicycle, may be upwards of 410 mm to clear wide handlebars, but this is not essential.

[0075] The operative portion 3 comprises a rearwardly open socket 3a, for receiving the fitting 11 , and coves 3b to accommodate tube T. A blocker 19 is profiled to be pushed out of the way, by the tube T as the tube T enters the operative portion 3, against a spring bias so as to spring back behind the tube T to block the tube T from retreating from the operative portion 3.

[0076] This example of the connector 11 comprises a mountable portion in the form of a collar comprising left and right halves mutually fastened. Seat posts are typically in the range of 22 mm to 35 mm in diameter. Preferably, the connector has an internal diameter of 35 mm or more and is supplied with sleeves of varying wall thickness and resilience so that a common connector can be snugly fitted to a range of seat posts of differing diameters. Profiled sleeves may be provided to suit non-round seat posts. The compact tube-hugging shape of the collar is robust.

[0077] The connector 11 is equipped with a respective receiving element 25 on each side. Each receiving element includes top and bottom portions resiliently biased towards each other and profiled to receive and be driven apart by a respective conductive blade 27 of the operative portion 3 (Figure 7). Other arrangements of electrical contacts are possible and indeed wireless power transfer is an option, e.g. the fitting 11 may comprise a receiving element in the form of a receiving coil excitable by a transmitting coil of the operative portion 3. The fitting 11 comprises RFID tag 29 and magnet 31 , and complementary thereto, the operative portion 3 comprises sensors in the form of RFID reader and magnet sensor.

[0078] The RFID reader could be mounted in any convenient point in or about the apparatus 1 . Indeed, the RFID tag might be replaced by a QR code or any other convenient identifier. In this example the RFID reader is mounted within the operative portion to sit in close proximity to the RFID tag 29 whereby the RFID tag 29 may take the form of an NFC tag. Some variants of the connector 11 may comprise a communications port and / or a tracking element, such as embedded GPS, for remote tracking and vehicle management.

[0079] In a preferred implementation of the concept, when the operative portion is in its standby position (Figure 5), the bicycle B can be wheeled into the guide track 9 with ease and advanced almost to its parking position. The arm 5 can then be pivoted to move the operative portion from its laterally offset position to sit in a high laterally central position. The arm 5 can then be pushed down to position the operative portion 3 in front of and in proximity to the operative portion 3 whereafter the bicycle B can be pushed forward. Preferably, the blocker 19 rides about the exterior of the seat post and clicks in place behind it and the controller, of the apparatus T, responds to the magnet sensor signaling the presence of a vehicle to activate the RFID reader 3 to identify the vehicle, e.g. to identify that the vehicle is authorised to use the charging and securing service. Once the authorisation is complete, the controller locks the operative portion 3 and energises the contacts 27 to transmit power to the fitting 11 .

[0080] In this way, an authorised user manoeuvring the bicycle into the apparatus 1 and engaging the operative portion 3 simultaneously secures the bicycle and electrically connects the bicycle for charging. Preferably, the apparatus comprises one or more indicators to convey locking status and / or charging status to a user. The indicators could take the form of audible indicators or visual indicators such as LEDs. The indicators might be mounted in or on the post 7, or in or on the operative portion 3. By way of example, the indicator might take the form of a vibrator arranged to vibrate the operative portion to convey to a user that the apparatus 1 is locked and charging. Preferred variants of the system may convey locking status, charging status and / or other information to a user's portable computing device, e.g. to a smartphone. Most preferably, the system provides users remote from the apparatus 1 with an indication of the vehicle's battery status. Preferably, the apparatus 1 is configured to alarm if the locking actuator is not functioning.

[0081] This example of the fitting 11 comprises wires 43 emerging from its underside to transmit power to a battery of the bicycle. Other variants of the connector may comprise a power transmitter in the form of terminals to which wires can be connected. This example of the operative portion 3 comprises a locking mechanism that is electronically controlled by the controller 39. Preferably, the locking mechanism of the operative portion simply fixes the position of the blocker 19 and works in conjunction with a locking mechanism within the post 7 for locking the carriage 15. Locking the carriage 15 guards against the seat post SP being lifted away from the seat tube ST. The locking mechanism within the post may comprise a solenoid or other actuator, e.g. may comprise a pinion gear.

[0082] The controller of apparatus T incorporates an RFID sensor for sensing an authorised user and is configured to unlock the operative portion in response thereto. The system may comprise an RFID card carried by the user and may be configured to unlock and remain unlocked whilst a user is proximity for the apparatus 1 in the manner of keyless entry for an automobile. There are other options, e.g. a user might send an unlock instruction from their smart phone via website. Preferred variants of the controller are connected, e.g. wirelessly connected, to a telecommunications network.

[0083] In this example, once a user carrying their RFID card (or other identifying element) moves into proximity with the apparatus 1 the operative portion 3 unlocks whereby the bicycle B can be reversed out of engagement with the operative portion 3 and out of the apparatus 1 more generally.

[0084] Whilst an electronic locking system is preferred, there are other options. By way of example the operative portion may have a key cylinder. Such variants may comprise a much simpler variant of the controller 9 that may make no effort to identify the bicycle B and may instead rely on the key cylinder to prevent unauthorised access. Indeed, in principle, variants of the apparatus 1 that are not lockable may be useful, e.g. in the home context.

[0085] In public contexts, it may be convenient to provide sets of apparatus 1 . For space efficiency, the apparatuses 1 may be arranged for angled parking, be set at two or more different heights, and / or set at two or more different inclinations relative to horizontal. Preferred variants of the apparatus 1 are well adapted to charge a wide range of micromobility vehicles. The controller in conjunction with a remote database enables station owners to control user access and parking fees. The set of apparatus may have an onsite control panel. The apparatus 1 comprises a horizontal tubular foot which in this example is formed by a metal tube. The foot supports the post and also provides a convenient protective conduit, e.g. for charging and / or communication cables. The cable(s) may connect the set of apparatus 1 to the onsite control panel. Remote control via a web-based application, e.g. using a computing device such as an iPad™, might take the place of the onsite control panel.

[0086] In the apparatus 1 , the controller takes the form of an onboard control unit. In other implementations, the controller may be a distributed control system. In one implementation of the concept, a single onsite controller co-operates with a set of apparatus. This onsite controller may take the form of a station control panel that sends locking and unlocking instructions to the individual charging apparatus. The station control panel may comprise an industrial PC. There may be serial communications to control programmable chargers (e.g. control a respective programmable charger associated with each apparatus) or monitor battery charging and RFID readouts.

[0087] Optionally, the control panel comprises a data connection for metric data collection in the cloud, remote monitoring and software updates. It may also comprise general purpose input / output ports to detect lock / unlock events, trigger an alarm if the locking actuator is malfunctioning (e.g. trigger in response to limit switches associated with those actuators), read RFIDs, check IDs against remote database parameters (to safeguard against unauthorised or unintentional charging) and retrieve charge setpoints. Each apparatus 1 may have its own charger, preferably its own programmable battery charger. The set of apparatus may comprise an uninterruptable power supply (USP) in case of mains power failure. Each apparatus 1 may have its own USP. The station control panel may have its own user interface, e.g. it may have a touchscreen and / or an RFID reader.

[0088] Figures 13 to 18 illustrate a system 1 ", 11 " akin to the system 1 , 11 except as described.

[0089] Whereas the operative portion 3 is configured to pivot about the transverse axis TA, e.g. it is suited to different seat post angles, operative portion 3" is fixed with respect to arm 5". Operative portion 3" and connector 11" are configured to mutually cooperate at a range of different relative angular orientations. In this particular implementation of the concept, the operative portion 3" presents a rearward facing operative portion inlet 3a" to embrace embraceable structure 11 a". The embraceable structure 11 a" runs in the transverse direction and the inlet 3a" opens rearwardly so that embraceable structure 11 a" can be moved forward into the stationary inlet 3a".

[0090] The inlet 3a" includes a spring mounted blocker 19". When the embraceable portion 11 a" is pushed into the inlet 3a", the blocker 19" is pushed away, downwardly in this case, against the spring bias. As the embraceable portion 11 a" moves further into the inlet 3a", blocker 19" returns to position to block a relative retreat of the 11a". A locking mechanism in the form of solenoid driven pin 32" is advanceable to lock the blocker 19" in position and thereby lock the operative portion 3" onto the embraceable structure 11 a".

[0091] Connector 11" comprises a pair of forwardly projecting arms 11 b" mutually spaced to define an interior I. Preferably, the embraceable structure 11a" spans the interior I so that it is supported at each end and is thereby more robust than a cantilevered structure of similar dimensions. Whilst spanning arrangements are preferred, in principle, a cantilevered version could be made to work as could a pair of opposed cantilevered portions on opposite sides of the interior I.

[0092] The embraceable structure 11 a" includes a central shaft (bolt 11 c" in this example) embraced by a set of annular components 11 d", 11 e" comprising contacts 11 d", for receiving power from the operative portion 3", and insulators 11 e". The arms 11 b' and embraceable structure 11 a" together constitute a power receiver 11 a", 11 b".

[0093] The operative portion 3" is equipped with a pair of contacts 3b" spring loaded to engage the contacts 11 d". The contacts 11d" have revolved exteriors to co-operate with the contacts 3b" at a range of angular orientations. In this example, the revolved external form is conical, although in other implementations of the concept the external form may be cylindrical or toroidal etc. Wires 11f’"connect with the contacts 11 c" through a body 11 g" of the connector 11". The wires 11f" emerge from an underside of the body 111wherefrom they may be routed to a battery of a micromobility vehicle. The emerging portions of the wire constitute a power transmitter 11fs" (Figure 16).

[0094] Preferred variants of the connector 1 T comprise a mounting arrangement 33" by which the connector is mountable. Preferably, the mounting arrangement 33" is configured to co-operate with any convenient upright portion of a micromobility vehicle, e.g. with a seat tube, seat post or steerer tube.

[0095] In this example, the mounting arrangement 33" comprises an inlet 33a" which, in this example, is defined by a pair of arms of the body 11 g". The inlet comprises, at its outer end, a straight section 33ai" and, at its inward end, a converging section 33bii".

[0096] The converging section 33an" comprises a pair of sides 34" that mutually converge in the inwards direction, that is, that mutually converge in the rightwards direction as drawn in Figure 17.

[0097] The straight section 33aii is bracketed by a pair of rails 35". In this example, the rails 35" take the form of lengthwise channels open to the interior of the inlet 33a". A blocking portion 37" is mounted to run along the rails 35". The blocking portion 37" comprises a body of plastic and a pair of captured nuts 39". Bolts 41" pass rearwardly through the body 11g" to engage the nuts 39". The bolt heads 41 a" are accessible from the front until shielding strips 47" are placed. To install the connector 11 " on a micromobility vehicle, the body 11 g" of the connector 1 T is placed over a complementary portion 45" of the micromobility vehicle so that that portion is relatively received into the inlet 33a". The blocking portion 37" is then positioned and engaged with bolts 41" to block the portion 45" moving relatively outwards from the inlet 30a".

[0098] The bolt heads 41a" constitute torque receivers by which the bolts 4T can be tightened to clamp the portion 45" against the blocking portion 37" and against each of the sides 34". In this way, the connector 11" grips the portion of the micromobility vehicle to be carried thereby without rattling about on the portion of the micromobility vehicle. Clamping the portion of the micromobility vehicle within the converging section 33aii" laterally locates the connector 11” with respect to the portion of the micromobility vehicle. In this example, the converging section is V-shaped. Other shapes are possible.

[0099] The connector 1 T is advantageously reconfigurable to suit micromobility portions of different size and shape. Figure 17 shows the connector 11 engaged with a large tube 45". Figure 18 shows the connector 11" clamped on to a smaller tube 45a". Advantageously, the blocking portion 37 has an inwardly directed portion 37a" receivable within the converging section 33aii" to better co-operate with smaller vehicle portions. Preferably, the blocking portion 37" is configured to present a concave portion 37b" to the micromobility portion. Advantageously, one or more of the converging sides 34' and the blocking portion 37' may be configured to present a resilient surface to the micromobility portion to better grip the micromobility portion without scratching, etc. In this case, sides 34 and blocking portion 37' are lined with rubber.

[0100] Preferred forms of the connector 11" are configured to resist unauthorised removal. For this purpose, the torque receivers may be security torque receivers. By way of example, the heads 41a" may be configured to resist engagement with typical tools (e.g. the bolt heads might comprise torx and / or Allen key sockets modified by the inclusion of a central pin to prevent the insertion of a typical Allen key or torx tool). Alternatively, the security torque receivers may be one-way torque receivers, e.g. including ratchet-like portions (e.g. akin to a clutch screw head or a Kinmar™ bolt) that provide minimal purchase in the unscrewing direction.

[0101] Preferably, the torque receivers are shielded so that, once the shields have been placed, the torque receivers are guarded. In this example, the shields 47" take the form of profiled strips. The shields 47" are fitted within complementary recesses formed within the body 11g" so that the edges of the shield are guarded thereby depriving would-be thieves of engagement points by which the shields can be removed. A rear end of the shield 47" is mounted within a forward ly-open slot whilst a forward end of the shield 47" wraps around an end of the projection 11 b" and engages a groove on the interior of the projection 11 b".

[0102] In this example, the bolt heads 41a' are linearly fixed by abutment with a portion of the body 11g' and extend outwards to engage and linearly drive the blocking portion (or more specifically the captured nuts 39" of the blocking portion 37"). Various alternative clamping arrangements are possible. By way of example, the bolts 4T might linearly move the blocking portion 37 and threadingly co-operate with threaded portions fixed relative to the body 11g". Indeed, rotatable female-threaded portions are also possible. Each nut 39", bolt 41" combination constitutes a drive. Preferably, one of each such drive is located on each side of the vehicle portion 45".

[0103] The mounting arrangement 33" provides flexibility in the choice of mounting location whilst the power receiver 11a", 11b" is co-operable with the operative portions 3" at a wide range of relative angular orientations within an upright lengthwise plane of relative angular orientation.

[0104] Various advantageous features disclosed herein may be implemented without other features disclosed herein. By way of example, variants of the mounting arrangement 33" may be usefully employed in contexts far removed from transferring electricity. Likewise variants of the power receiver 11 a", 11 b" may be usefully employed in combination with alternate mounting arrangements such as in combination with a quick release clamp, suitable adhesive or conventional fasteners. Similarly the combination of operative portion 3" and connector 11" may be usefully employed in contexts other than the apparatus 1". Instead of being mounted at the end of an arm, the operative portion 3" might be simply tethered, e.g. at the end of one or more cables. Potentially a single sleeve may carry a cable or chain for securing the operative portion and wires for powering the operative portion. Other forms of tether are possible, e.g. electrical wires might be laced through a security chain. The tether preferably provides security corresponding to the relevant parameters of at least CEN Grade 1 , or preferably at least CEN Grade 2, or more preferably at least CEN Grade 3.

[0105] Figures 19 to 29 illustrate an example of a system 101 , 111 comprising a tether 151 that secures and charges micromobility vehicle MV.

[0106] Connector 111 comprises a mounting arrangement 133 as per mounting arrangement 33. The micromobility vehicle comprises an elongate element SP and a battery BA. The connector comprises an inlet 133a (into which the elongate element is relatively movable transverse to the elongate element), a blocking portion 137 (to block the elongate element moving relatively outwards), one or more threaded elements, a power receiver 111a (for receiving electricity), and a power transmitter 111f for transmitting the electricity to the battery. The inlet comprises a converging section 133aii Side portions 134 of the converging section inwardly converge relative to each other. The one or more threaded elements comprise torque receivers by which the one or more threaded elements are rotatable to urge the blocking portion, inwards relative to the inlet, to clamp the elongate element against both of the side portions.

[0107] Figures 20, 21 illustrate assembly and installation steps by which the connector 111 is installed on any convenient embraceable portion. The connector 11 T comprises an inlet member 1133 and separate spacing members 1134 attachable thereto. The spacing members define most of each of the two guides 135 (in this case, guiding grooves) along which the blocking portion 137 slides. The inlet member 1133 defines a front end portion of each of the two guides 135. Each of two spacers 1134 is penetrated by a respective trio of fore-aft bolt-holes comprising holes 1134a opening into the guide grooves 135. Assembly bolts 1134a’ (Figure22a) are passed rearwardly through the holes 1134a.

[0108] After placing inlet member 133 over an embraceable portion of the micromobility vehicle (so that that embraceable portion is relatively received into the inlet 133a), further assembly bolts 1134b are passed forwardly through the remaining holes in the spacers 1134 and engaged with complementary threaded bores of the inlet member 1133 to create a mounting unit 1135 loosely fitted about the embraceable portion of a micromobility vehicle.

[0109] The inlet member 1133 comprises fore-aft through-holes 1133a coaxial with the bolt- holes 1134a. A main body 112 of the connector 111 comprises a pair of threaded bores 112a having horizontal spacing complementary to the spacing of the bores 1133a, 1134a. With the unit 1135 loosely placed on the embraceable portion of the micromobility vehicle, body 112 and mounting unit 135 are manoeuvred relative to each other to bring the bores 112a into alignment with the assembly bolts 1134a' carried in the holes 1134a. Once so aligned, a torque applier (e.g Allen key or other suitable tool) is inserted through each hole 1133a to tighten the screws 1134a’ carried within holes 1134a to fasten the mounting unit 1135 to the body 112.

[0110] In this example, the body 112 includes plural pairs of holes 112a vertically spaced over the front of the body, whereby the height of the body 112 is adjustable relative to the mounting unit 1135, e.g. to suit different seat stay arrangements.

[0111] After the mounting unit 1135 is loosely fitted to the embraceable portion of the micromobility vehicle and fastened to the body portion 112, threaded bolts 1133a' are inserted into the holes 1133a to engage captured fasteners fixed with respect to the blocking portion 137. These bolts preferably comprise security torque receivers, e.g. of a previously described type. Mudge Fasteners™ Key-Rex™ are preferred.

[0112] In a preferred implementation, the connector 111 is prefabricated with security fasteners in place (e.g. fully assembled with the bolts 1133a’ in place) and requiring disassembly to mount the connector 111 on a vehicle. This poses an impediment to unauthorised installers and thereby reduces the risk of a connector being used in conjunction with an incompatible battery or being installed on a vehicle without being properly configured to suit the battery of the vehicle.

[0113] With an appropriate torque-applying tool, the bolts 1133a' are tightened to advance the blocking portion 135 to clamp the embraceable portion of the micromobility vehicle between the blocking portion 137 and each of the two converging sides 134. Plugs 147 can then be inserted into the inlet member 1133 to provide a smoother aesthetic and impede access to bolts 1133a'.

[0114] The connector 11" of Figures 16 to 18 comprises long bolts 41" to accommodate a wide variety of tube sizes. When these long bolts are wound all the way in to suit a smaller tube, this leads to a redundant length of connector (to the left as drawn in Figure 18). This additional bulk may be undesirable in some contexts. The connector 111 , in the configuration illustrated, has a shorter stroke to grip tubes in the range of 020 mm to 025 mm - that is, within a 5 mm wide diameter range.

[0115] To accommodate wider tubes, the connector 111 comprises spare longer spacers 1134 and bolts 1133a'. In this way, the connector 111 can be reconfigured by swapping out components 1133a', 1134 to suit larger-diameter tubes. In another implementation of the concept, a similar range of adjustment may be provided by providing spare inlet members 1133 of mutually different lengths. Some variants of the connector 111 may comprise alternate blocking portions 137 that can be swapped out to suit different embraceable portions. Figure 22b illustrates the connector 111 configured to co-operate with tubes ranging from 025 mm to 043 mm, and Figure 22c illustrates the connector 111 configured to co-operate with 043 mm to 055 mm tubes.

[0116] Whilst it is convenient to describe the connector 111 in relation to cylindrical tubes, micromobility vehicles frequently comprise embraceable portions that are not cylindrical. The mounting arrangement 133 is advantageously well adapted to accommodate different tube profiles. The range of motion afforded by the clamping mechanism, particularly in combination with compliant embraceable-portion- contacting portions, enables preferred embodiments to be conveniently mounted on a wide assortment of micromobility vehicles. Preferably, the clamping mechanism has a stroke of at least 2 mm, e.g. at least 5 mm, or more preferably at least 10 mm.

[0117] In the system 1", 11", embraceable portion 11a" is fixed relative to connector 11 and is engaged by a locking mechanism carried by the charger 1". In the system 101 , 111 , the relationship is reversed. The body 112 comprises a locking mechanism and the power transmitter 111a takes the form of a socket into which an engageable portion 153 is inserted and selectively locked to secure the micromobility vehicle. In this example, the engageable portion 153 takes the form of a jack with an outwardly- open circumferential locking groove 153a and the connector 111 comprises an internal locking member that moves transversely to the jack to engage the groove 153a to resist inadvertent reversal. Thus, in this example, the tether 151 both secures and conveys electricity to the micromobility vehicle.

[0118] The tether 151 comprises rope 151a for strength. Steel wire rope, e.g. 06 mm steel wire rope, is convenient although other materials (such as carbon fibre) are possible. A trio of wires 151 b (e.g. a trio of multistrand wires) parallels the rope 151a. Each has its own external insulation, e.g. its own silicone rubber outer layer. Filaments 151a, 151 b are sleeved in protective sleeve 151c and outer layer 151 d. The protective sleeve is preferably a woven structure, e.g. a braided aramid sleeve. The outer layer 151 d is preferably a soft outer layer, e.g. a silicone rubber outer layer, to avoid scratching the micromobility vehicle and present users with a pleasant, soft touch.

[0119] The exemplary tether has an external diameter of 13 mm and a minimum bend radius of 60 mm.

[0120] The tether 151 is a retractable tether. Figure 25 illustrates a preferred retraction mechanism. Internal to the post 107, an end 151a of the tether is fixed, e.g. within an upper quartile of the post. The tether 151 runs downwardly from this fixed end before turning around a turning guide 155. In this example, the turning guide 155 takes the form of a pulley. The tether then runs upwardly from the turning guide 155 to a guide 157 within the upper quartile of the post 107 wherethrough the tether 151 is turned from running upwardly to running rearwardly to emerge from the rearwardly-facing front of the post 107. In this example, the guide 157 takes the form of roller guides including spaced roller pairs. The guide 155 is downwardly biased. A constant-force spring is a convenient option.

[0121] In this way, a user can approach the post 107 to find plug 159 (at the end of the tether 151 ) presented at a convenient height. Grasping the plug 159, the tether 151 can be pulled from the post 1. In doing so, the turning guide 155 is lifted against bias. The plug 159 can then be engaged with the micromobility vehicle, or more specifically engaged with the connector 111 of the micromobility vehicle in this example, to secure and charge the micromobility vehicle.

[0122] Whilst other retraction mechanisms are possible, the vertically-movable turning guide enables reliable retraction with desirable dampening qualities and avoids subjecting the tether 101 to a tight bend radius whereby the mechanism is co-operable with relatively thick, strong tethers.

[0123] Most preferably, the connector 111 comprises a power-receiving and securing socket 111a on each side. This enables the device to be used in different orientations of the micromobility vehicle. Figure 24 illustrates the connector 111 mounted on a rear of a seat post SP. Figure 23 shows a connector 111 mounted on a front of a steerer tube of a scooter SC. The double-sided connector 111 also enables the micromobility vehicle to be conveniently charged from either side. In this way, a micromobility vehicle identical to the vehicle MV could be racked in the wheel-receiving guide 109' on the other side of the post 107 and charged via the tether 151 ' without looping that tether about the opposite side of the vehicle. Accordingly, preferred forms of the charger 101 comprise pairs of tethers 151 , 15T mounted in proximity to each other (e.g. emerging from a common unit such as the post 107) to sit between a pair of micromobility vehicles, e.g. sitting between a pair of wheel-receiving guides 109, 109'.

[0124] The use of a flexible tether enables convenient engagement with a wide variety of micromobility vehicles. By way of example, the guides 109, 109' may be co-operable with bicycles (and similar wheeled conveyances) of various design, and the bicycles may be wheeled directly into the guide whereafter the bicycle is stably supported thus leaving the operator's hands free to withdraw the tether and engage the tether with the bicycle. For this purpose, the wheel-receiving portions 109, 109' receive a bottom portion of the bicycle wheel and portions upwardly (e.g. at least 200 mm upwardly) therefrom, to support the bicycle. Other bicycle-supporting arrangements are possible, e.g. an upright against which the rear wheel could be leant, or a horizontal against which the seat of the bicycle might be leant, could be provided.

[0125] The inventors have recognised that longer cables enable the charger 101 to cooperate with more vehicles more conveniently. Accordingly, a functional tether length of at least 1 .0 m, or more preferably at least 1 .2 m, is preferred. Longer tethers, e.g. having a functional length of at least 1 .5 m, or more preferably 1.8 m, can be passed through vehicle component(s) such as wheels to secure those component(s). In this way, certain components such as quick release wheels can be secure. Preferably, the tether is passed through both wheels and / or the frame of the vehicle.

[0126] For the avoidance of doubt, as used herein, the functional length of a tether is the length from the outer end (where the flexible portion connects to the plug 159 in this case) to the other end of the tether (to the post 107 in this case, or from the hanging point of a tether hung from an overhead structure). In the case of a retractable tether the functional length is the functional length presented to the user when the tether is fully extended.

[0127] The plug 159 is an example of an engageable portion tethered by the tether 151 that is engageable with the connector 111. The plug 159 is a single unit that can be manoeuvred with one hand and plugged into the connector 111 with a single movement. The plug 159 comprises a single jack 153 that is received into the connector 111 and is coaxial to the end of the tether 151 . Other orientations are possible, e.g. the jack might extend at right angles to the end of the tether 151 . In other implementations of the concept, a single plug might comprise two or more engageable portions (e.g. two or more pins), and indeed other modes of engagement are possible. The tethered engageable portion might comprise a socket to relatively receive a jack of the connector 111 . A less preferred implementation of the concept may comprise two or more engageable portions. By way of example, instead of plug 159, the tether 151 may terminate in a separate security plug and a separate electrical plug. The plug 159 comprises a retractable sheath 153b that is preferably biased towards its extended position (Figure 27) whereat the sheath shields the jack 153 from the user's fingers. The sheath 153b is retracted (Figures 28 and 29) as the jack 153 is pushed into the connector 111. The sheath shields the jack, thereby reducing the perceived risk of electrocution.

[0128] Preferred forms of the charger 101 are capable of two or more electronic handshakes, thereby enabling the charger to co-operate with a wider assortment of vehicles, particularly in combination with a long tether. For this purpose, preferred variants of the charger 101 comprise an information receiver to receive information identifying the requisite charger output, including the requisite electronic handshake.

[0129] The information receiver could take the form of a user interface such as a touchscreen 107b atop the post 107. Preferably, the micromobility vehicle MV carries an identifier, such as an identifier described in respect of the connector 11 , e.g. the plug 159 and connector 111 might comprise complementary communication apparatus for NFC.

[0130] As schematically illustrated in Figure 30, a micromobility vehicle MVi comprising a battery BAi of a Bosch™ PowerPack 500 battery system and an RFID tag 1111 may co-operate with a charger 1011 comprising a voltage source 1611 and a signal voltage source 163i , an RFID reader 165i and a controller 167i .

[0131] The RFID tag 1111 (or other suitable identifier) carries information conveying the charger output called for by the vehicle MVi. In response to the reader 165i reading the RFID tag 1111, the controller 167i controls the suppliers 1611, 163i to proceed with the requisite handshake and then deliver the ongoing charging output. In this example, the signal voltage supplier 163i supplies a 5V signal and the voltage supplier 1611 then supplies the ongoing charging voltage to the positive and negative lines of the vehicle MVi. The controller 167i detects current flow responsive to this application of voltage, whereupon it is determined that the handshake is complete.

[0132] Figure 31 illustrates the same charger 1011 co-operating with micromobility vehicle MV2comprising a battery BA2of a Shimano™ BT-E8010. The vehicle MV2comprises a different identifier 1112 which triggers the charger 1011 to provide the requisite electronic handshake and ongoing charging output.

[0133] The connector 111 preferably comprises a security line, such as a security chain or more preferably a security cable, to secure the micromobility vehicle when away from the charging station. In one implementation, the line may have a fixed end, e.g. fixed with respect to the body 112, and a releasably connectable end, e.g. comprising a projection co-operable with the sockets 111 a. The connector body 112 may wirelessly co-operate with a device such as a smartphone to lock and unlock as needed. In one implementation, the security line is a 08 mm coated memory cable comprising five 080 mm loops for a total length of about 1 .2 m. In another implementation, the security line may have two projections co-operable with the two sockets 111a. In another implementation, the security line might have a loop at one end and a projection at the other wherein the line can be wrapped around a post, the projection can be fed through the eyelet and then engaged with the socket 111 a to secure the micromobility vehicle to the post.

[0134] Whilst it is preferred that the connector 111 co-operate with a user's smartphone, other means of enabling authorised access are possible, e.g. the connector 111 might be equipped with a key cylinder or may be equipped with a keypad via which a user can enter a passcode.

[0135] Figure 32 illustrates a connector 301 and a tethered plug 303 complementary to the connector 301 . The connector 301 is similar to the connector 111 except as described.

[0136] Plug 303 comprises an integral chassis member which in this example is formed of stainless steel and closes a cup-like hollow body 303b. An engageable element 303c projects from the chassis 303a and is engaged by the connector 301 to lock the plug 303 in place. In this example, the engageable member 303c takes the form of a round spigot with a tapered lead-in at its outer end and an annular latch-receiving groove defining a shoulder that the connector 301 takes hold of. Engageable element 303c could take other forms, e.g. it might take the form of a latch tongue akin to the tongue of a seatbelt buckle. Spaced from the engageable element 303c is a multi-pin plug 303d comprising plural connectors for conveying power and data to the connector 301 .

[0137] The plug 303 further comprises a locator 303e in the form of a simple pin. Preferably, the connector 301 and plug 303 are magnetically co-operable (e.g. one may comprise a magnet and the other may comprise a ferrous material co-operable therewith) to mutually urge the paths towards alignment.

[0138] The connector 301 includes a chassis 301 a which in this example is formed of stainless steel and closes plastic hollow body 301 b to define a sealed housing 301 a, 301 b that is sealed against water ingress.

[0139] Dock 301 c, electrical socket 301 d and locating bore 301 e open from the exterior of the connector 301 . In this example, features 301 c, 301 e are integral to the chassis 301 a and the socket 301 d is recessed therein. The socket 301 d is complementary to the multi-pin plug 303d.

[0140] The connector 301 includes internal components 500 (Figure 34) protected by the housing 301 a, 301 b. The internal components 500 comprise a PCB 501 comprising a light 503 that sits within an aperture of the hollow body 301 b.

[0141] The internal components further comprise batteries 505 which in this embodiment are lithium-ion batteries held in place via retainers 507 attached to an interior of the hollow body 303b. An loT (internet of things) module 509 sits above a charging current cut-off relay 511. In this case, the loT module 509 takes the form of a Peppino Track App™ module.

[0142] Turning to Figure 36, the dock 301 c is open to receive the engageable element 303c in an insertion direction. The chassis 301 a comprises a dock body 301 f in this example. In other examples, the dock body 301 f may be a separate piece or composite body made up of separate pieces.

[0143] The dock body 301 f defines an outwardly open void and is shaped to cup the engageable element 303c. The surrounding structure of the dock body 301 f, that surrounds the element 303c, is impermeable but for transverse opening 301g that opens transverse to the insertion direction. In this case, the opening 301g opens upwardly from the interior of the dock 301 c into the interior of the housing 301 a, 301 b to provide passage for a latching member 513 comprising a latch tooth 513a and mounted to pivot about a pivot axis 513b from a disengaged position (Figure 37) to an engaged position in which the tooth 513a takes hold of the element 303c.

[0144] The latch member 513 is driven by actuator 515 via a resilient transmission 517. The resilient transmission comprises a leaf spring 517a, one end of which is fixed to the latch element 513 and the other end of which is captured on an output shaft 515a between an end stop 515b and a compression spring 517b.

[0145] The resilient transmission 517 is driven by the actuator 515 to bias the latching member 513 towards the electronically selected engaged or disengaged position. The resilience of the transmission 517 guards the actuator 515 against damage.

[0146] Figure 36 illustrates the actuator in its extended position and the latch element in its lower, engaged position at which the tooth 513 extends into the interior of the dock 301 c.

[0147] From this position, the plug 303 can be pushed into the connector 301 without any electrical actuation. As the element 303c is inserted into the dock 301 c, its lead-in cooperates with a corresponding lead-in of the element 503 to upwardly drive the latch element 513 to pivot and compress spring 517b (Figure 37). Whilst in this example elements 303c and 513 each have inclined lead-in features, other complementary arrangements are possible, e.g. an edge of the tongue 513 might ride along the inclined face of the element 303c.

[0148] As the element 303c is inserted further and its locking shoulder passes the tooth 513a, the tooth 513a snaps down, under the bias of spring 517b to take hold of the element 303c. The actuator 515 is retractable to rotate the latching element 513 counterclockwise as drawn to withdraw (lift in this case) the tooth 513a and thereby release the element 303c.

[0149] The leaf spring 517a enables the actuator 515 to retract even if the latching element 513 is jammed in its downward position, e.g. jammed downwardly because a user is pulling on the plug 303. In the event of such jamming, the user can jiggle the plug 303 to relieve the source of friction whereupon the latching element 513 springs upwardly under the bias of the leaf spring 517a.

[0150] In this example, the latching element 513 and dock body 301 f have complementary forms to form a sealing interface to limit the ingress of water via the opening 301g. In particular, the element 513 and the body 301f have complementary round (e.g. cylindrical) forms concentric to the pivot axis 501b and at, or outboard of, the radially outer periphery of the opening 301g to form a sealing interface 513c. Likewise, a hinge knuckle of the element 513b and the docking body 301 f have complementary round (e.g. cylindrical) surfaces concentric to the pivot axis 513b to form a sealing interface 513d. Each of these concentric sealing interfaces could be usefully employed without the other.

[0151] In this example, the locking element 513 is another metallic part. Whilst the key components might be formed of other materials, metals are preferred for their robustness. Whilst metal-to-metal contact may impede water ingress, preferably sealing is aided with sealant and / or compliant seals. Most preferably, the interfacing surfaces are coated with silicon sealant.

[0152] This advantageous sealing arrangement may be employed in the context of entirely different locks, e.g. in the context of a key-activated lock unrelated to charging or micromobility vehicles.

[0153] Returning to the plug 303, In this example, the chassis 303a is cast and the pin 303c is integrated therewith by welding. The locator pin 303e is a further pin integrated with the chassis 303a by welding. The locator pin 303e serves to prevent the plug 303 being twisted about the socket 301c. The multi-pin plug 303d carries multiple, preferably at least five (e.g. at least six), conductors. Separating the plug 303d from the engageable element 303c provides design freedom to use economic, off-the-shelf plugs. The plugs are preferably waterproof. Trapped between the chassis 303a and the exterior of the connector, the plug is shielded from damage and vandalism. Incorporating five or more pins enables for more complex communication from the connector 301 to the charger (or vice versa if need be) and is thus well adapted to the advantageous operating sequences described in respect of Figures 42 to 49.

[0154] Returning to Figure 32, the plug 303 is tethered by tether 700. In this example, tether 700 comprises a security line 701 . The security line might take the form of a cable and preferably complies with one or more of the relevant parameters of the CEN grades previously mentioned. Most preferably, the security line 701 takes the form of a chain. Metal, such as steel, is a preferred material. Most preferably, the metal is hardened to resist bolt-cutter attack. Preferably, the chain is at least 4 mm in diameter, or more preferably about 6 mm in diameter. A preferred maximum is 8 mm in diameter so that the chain (in combination with other elements of the tether) is not too heavy and / or rigid to be conveniently passed through the vehicle. Diameters of 4 mm, 6 mm and 8 mm correspond to 13, 28 and 50 mm2in cross-sectional area. Non-round cross-sections are possible. In this example, the chain is grade 100 lifting chain and has a 2,000 kg break strength.

[0155] The tether 700 further comprises an electrical cord 703 which preferably comprises plural conductors within a common sleeve. A preferred variant is 7.3 mm in diameter with a protective PVC sleeve and comprises two high-current charging conductors and four low-current data conductors. A proprietary plug and cable combination product may be used. The plug may be a male Rosenberger connector that forms the plug 303a.

[0156] The power cord may comprise a further protective sheath 705. The protective sheath may be a metallic sheath, such as 10 mm galvanised steel flexible protective conduit. The sheath 705 serves to guard the cord 703 against damage during normal use, e.g. against abrasion from the security line 701 . The security line 701 and cord 703 (or security line 701 and combination 703, 705) may be mutually connected along their parallel lengths, e.g. mutually connected at spaced locations, e.g. cable-tied to each other. In one embodiment, each link of the chain is tied, e.g. cable-tied, to the combination 703, 705.

[0157] A further protective sheath 707 (Figure 38) encases the components 701 , 703, 705 for a tidy appearance, for additional protection and to protect the vehicles from the tether, e.g. to protect a bicycle frame from being scratched by the chain. In this example, the outer sleeve is a nylon sleeve to provide a soft, non-abrasive exterior. Whilst other modes of construction are possible, the tether preferably presents a soft, non-abrasive exterior so as not to scratch the vehicles. An outer sleeve formed of para-aramid such as Kevlar™ is another possibility.

[0158] Figure 39 illustrates the interior of the hollow body 301 b including its battery-receiving grooves.

[0159] A rim of the body 301 b' carries a sealing gasket and is surrounded by a large number of screw-holes 301 b". Preferably, there are at least six screw-holes, or more preferably at least 10. In this example, there are 13 screw-holes spaced around the periphery. Screws are passed outwardly through the chassis 301 a and engage the holes 301 b" to provide a uniform clamping force for improved ingress protection. In this example, gasket 301c includes an opening via which a cord exits the housing 301 a, 301 b to convey power towards the vehicle's battery. In combination with a seal at the interface of components 301 f, 513, the housing 301 a, 301 b is sealed to IP67.

[0160] A small vertical wing 519 (Figures 35 and 38) sits on top of and is mounted to move with the latching tongue 513. An optical sensor 521 sits on an underside of the PCB 501 and is positioned to detect the movement of the wing 519.

[0161] In this example, the optical sensor 521 is positioned to be obscured by the wing 519 when the latching element 513 is elevated in its disengaged position to serve as a position sensor for sensing the position of the lock and tongue. Potentially, the optical sensor might be moved to be obscured when the latching element is lowered to its latching position, and indeed other position sensors more generally are possible, e.g. a potentiometer might measure the angular orientation of the latching element or contacts might be closed when the latching element is lowered.

[0162] Figures 40 and 41 illustrate a charging station comprising a single post 801 between a pair of wheel guides 803. The post includes a pair of plugs 303 mounted within plug receivers 805 magnetically co-operable with the plugs 303 to aid in alignment.

[0163] In the stowed configuration, the tether hangs in a loop from the plug 303 and a fixed mounting point at about the same height as the plug 303. Having each end of the tether hanging down from its stowed point provides for neat packaging whilst maximising the length of tether. In this example, the tether is about twice as long as the post 801 is high and the tethers are partially hidden within upright tether-receiving voids 807 of the post 801 . In this context, the functional length of the tether is the functional length presented to the user, beyond the front of the tether-receiving voids, when the tether is fully extended away from the post 801 . The docking station further includes a security loop 809 to which users may apply additional bike locks if desired.

[0164] Turning to Figures 50a, 50b, the charging station 800 is co-operable with the connector 301 via the tether 700 and plug 303.

[0165] In this example, the combination 700, 303 includes six conduction paths, five of which are used leaving an additional line to future-proof the system. In an embodiment, an or the additional line functions as a LIART RX and the existing LIART wire becomes a LIART TX. Preferably, that embodiment includes a switch on the PCB 501 to enable switching between one wire (LIART) and complete LIART modes. The switch may be controlled by the firmware and may be one of the parameters reconfigured to suit different vehicles.

[0166] The charger 800 incorporates an LED user interface, a core charger 813 and a power adapter 815. Components 813, 815 are supplied with mains power via powerboard 817. The power adapter provides 12V DC output for reasons to be described. The core charger 813 provides the requisite output charging voltage to charge the vehicle batteries. In this example, the core charger 813 is a Grin™ charger. The LED user interface 811 provides feedback as described in Table 1 .

[0167] Error messages from the core charger 813 are dealt with in accordance with Table 2. The connector 301 comprises the LED 503 which in this example is a neopixel LED user interface.

[0168] The PCB 501 comprises a CAN to loT module 501a which preferably comprises the following pins.

[0169] Pins for loT module:

[0170] Power +

[0171] Power -

[0172] Internal battery +

[0173] Internal battery -

[0174] Internal battery temp

[0175] Alarm +

[0176] Alarm -

[0177] Wake up line

[0178] CAN H

[0179] CAN L

[0180] Commands between PCBA and loT module

[0181] A cable 301 h (akin to the cable 111f and via which the connector is electrically connected to the vehicle battery) preferably has at least seven conductors, or more preferably 11 conductors corresponding to:

[0182] I .36V

[0183] 2. CND

[0184] 3. UART TX

[0185] 4. UART RX

[0186] 5. GND

[0187] 6. 3V3

[0188] 7. 5V (signal, 10mA max)

[0189] 8. CAN + (for future ready)

[0190] 9. CAN - (for future ready)

[0191] 10. AUX power + (<2A peak, supply 12-36V, average -10mA)

[0192] I I . AUX power - An adapter 301 i connects the connector 301 to the vehicle battery. In this case, the connector 301 i takes the form of a short cable that runs between the cable 301 h and the vehicle battery. Providing an adapter in this way enables a single connector 301 to be connected to a variety of different battery types by using different adapters. The LED 503 conveys the status of the charging arrangement in accordance with Table 3.

[0193] Figures 42 to 49 are flow diagrams illustrating the operation of the connector 301 . Process 1000 commences with start 1001 after which all peripherals are initialised 1003 and the process moves on to state machine process 1005.

[0194] The state machine process 1005 is illustrated in Figure 3. The connector 301 is woken up from its idle state 1007 when supplied with the 12V signal from the charger 800. In this way, the 12V signal is an activation signal. Additionally, the internal components 500 are operable on power drawn from this 12V supply if the batteries 505 internal to the connector 301 are deeply discharged. 12V is relatively safe. The provision of a low voltage (e.g. less than 16V) actuation signal that can also serve as a power supply can also be usefully applied without various of the other advantageous features described herein.

[0195] Upon receipt of the 12V signal, the connector 301 moves from idle mode 1007 to its comms-only mode 1009 whereafter the PCB 103 looks for a signal from its optical sensor (position sensor) indicating that the latch 513 is down in its engaged position before moving on to the ready-to-charge condition 1011. In this way, the position sensor serves as a safeguard against ongoing operation if, for example, the latch 513 is jammed in its upward position, thereby reducing the risk of a vehicle being left unsecured.

[0196] Figure 4 illustrates the idle state 1007 in more detail, comprising a loop in which the PCB 501 looks for the 12V signal and, in the absence of that signal, checks a timer before periodically moving through a sub-loop 107a in which the connector 301 completes a handshake with the vehicle battery to draw power therefrom to charge its own internal batteries 505.

[0197] Figure 45 illustrates the comms-only state 1009 in which the PCB 501 looks for confirmation from the optical sensor that the latching element 513 is in an engaged position before moving on to the ready-to-charge state, or reverts to the idle state if the 12V signal has disappeared. When in the ready-to-charge state, the PCB 501 looks for external instructions via the loT module 509 in this case. On receipt of those external instructions, the connector moves on to the charging state and signals as much via the LED indicator and to the loT module.

[0198] In the absence of a start-charging command from the loT module, the system looks for an unlock command from the loT module. These commands may originate from an app installed on the user's smartphone or from a similar device in wireless communication with the connector 301 . Of course, other variants of the connector 301 may be instructed in other ways.

[0199] At the start-charging state 1013, the PCB 501 retrieves identifying information identifying the charger-output parameters of the vehicle (which parameters are also referred to herein as a Profile) and communicates with the core charger 813 to select the Profile. In this case, the communication is one wire (LIART) communication characterised by the following parameters:

[0200] 1 wire (UART) communication

[0201] • 384000 baud

[0202] • 8 bits

[0203] • 1 stop bit

[0204] • No parity bit

[0205] • No flow control

[0206] • Transition level voltage - 3.3V

[0207] • Works only with Grin™ FW v1.039

[0208] • Datasheet received

[0209] The core charger 813 then responds with the appropriate handshake in accordance with the profile P to establish connection with the vehicle battery and then start charging.

[0210] Figures 51 , 52, and 53 illustrate the digital handshakes with the Bosch™, Shimano™ and Bafang™ batteries.

[0211] Each top level box represents the sequence to unlock the particular brand of battery, i.e Shimano™, Bafang™ and Bosch™. These are locked or protected such that you need a particular electric digital handshake in order to interface to them. Preferred variants of the system comprising the charger 800 and connectors 303 produce each of these handshakes as required to interface with all three battery types.

[0212] Each smaller box within the top level box represents a different functional element of the system, not necessarily a discrete physical component.

[0213] • "Power from dock or battery" is not a physical component but rather an indication of energy flow. The Grin™ box is the Grin™ charger 813 which has a communication port and protocol of "1 wire LIART" but also outputs 36V DC in order to charge the vehicle batteries.

[0214] • The micro box depicts the microprocessor in PCBA 501 . It controls a switch that allows power from the dock or battery to be applied to a 5V converter.

[0215] • The 5V converter is a discrete electrical component that converts the higher 36V DC to 5V DC that also allows a straight pass through of 36V DC.

[0216] • This 36V DC and also 5V DC is applied to the vehicle battery.

[0217] • The 36V DC supplied to the vehicle battery is to charge the vehicle battery.

[0218] • The 5V DC applied to the vehicle battery is the voltage at which the LIART protocol operates.

[0219] • The final box is "Command from IOT module". This is the interface to the cloud. When the user clicks on their phone app to start charging, that command is then transferred to the microprocessor via CAN protocol, then translated to LIART protocol which is communicated through to the vehicle battery.

[0220] • This thought process is applied to the other logical flow diagrams for the Bafang™ and Shimano™ batteries.

[0221] Returning to Figure 47a, after shaking hands the PCB 501 checks the status from the Grin™ charger (Figure 47c) and operation continues until the core charger 813 signifies a fault, the loT module 509 sends a command to stop charging (e.g. in response to user input via a smartphone), or the core charger 813 indicates that the battery is fully charged. If the core charger 813 signals that the battery is fully charged via the LIART line, an LED indication is given and the change in status is relayed to the loT module before the system reverts to the ready-to-charge state 1011 (Figure 47b). In the fault state 1015, the system looks for a unlock command from the loT module and unlocks the connector 301 in response thereto and checks the core charger 813 for an ongoing error message.

[0222] In the fully charged state 1017, the system looks for an unlock command from the loT module and in response thereto unlocks the mechanical lock and delays for a predetermined period (five seconds in this example) before issuing an LED indication, sending the revised status to the loT module and returning the system to the comms-only state.

[0223] In a preferred mode of operation, the mechanical lock is held unlocked, e.g. the actuator 515 is retracted to hold the latching element 513 in its upward position, when the unit is in its comms-only state. In the idle state and / or the absence of power, the mechanical lock may maintain its locked position to provide a "fail secure" mode of operation.

[0224] The invention is not limited to the examples described herein. Various advantageous features described in combination with various other features may be separately useful. Likewise, various advantageous features may be advantageously used in combination with other features separately disclosed herein. By way of example, electronics akin to the electronics of the charger 101 may be usefully employed in combination with the mechanical arm of the charger 1 or in entirely different contexts, e.g. the handshake matching electronics of the charger 1 could be useful entirely separately of any securing function.

[0225] The term "comprises" and its grammatical variants has a meaning that is determined by the context in which it appears. Accordingly, the term should not be interpreted exhaustively unless the context dictates so. Likewise, the article "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements unless the context dictates so.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A connector for charging a micromobility vehicle; wherein the micromobility vehicle comprises an elongate element and a battery; the connector comprises an inlet into which the elongate element is relatively movable transverse to the elongate element; a blocking portion to block the elongate element moving relatively outwards; one or more threaded elements; a power receiver for receiving electricity; and a power transmitter for transmitting the electricity to the battery; the inlet comprises a converging section; side portions of the converging section inwardly converge relative to each other; and the one or more threaded elements comprise torque receivers by which the one or more threaded elements are rotatable to urge the blocking portion, inwards relative to the inlet, to clamp the elongate element against both of the side portions.

2. The connector of claim 1 wherein at least one of a) the torque receivers are security torque receivers; and b) the connector comprises one or more shields for shielding the torque receivers; to impede nefarious reverse rotation of the one or more threaded elements.

3. The connector of claim 2 comprising the one or more shields.

4. The connector of any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the blocking portion is configured to extend into the converging section.

5. The connector of any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein connector is configurable to clamp on to an 020 mm element.

6. The connector of any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein connector is configurable to clamp on to an 070 mm element.

7. A system for charging and securing vehicles; wherein each respective vehicle of the vehicles is a respective micromobility vehicle and comprises a respective battery and respective embraceable portion; the system comprises connectors and one or more chargers; the connectors comprise a respective connector for each respective vehicle; each respective connector comprises a respective mounting arrangement by which the respective connector is mountable on any selected embraceable portion within a range of embraceable portions comprising 030 mm portions and 050 mm portions; a respective power transmitter for transmitting power to the respective battery; and each respective charger of the chargers comprises a respective at least one engageable portion; and a respective tether tethering the respective at least one engageable portion; and each respective at least one engageable portion is engageable with each respective connector to convey the power to the respective connector and secure the respective vehicle.

8. The system of claim 7 wherein the range of embraceable portions comprises 020 mm portions.

9. The system of claim 7 or 8 wherein the range of embraceable portions comprises 070 mm portions.

10. The system of claim 7, 8 or 9 wherein each respective connector is in accordance with any one of claims 1 to 4.11 . The system of any one of claims 7 to 10 wherein the tether has a functional length of at least 0.5 m.

12. The system of any one of claims 7 to 10 wherein the tether has a functional length of at least 0.8 m.

13. The system of any one of claims 7 to 10 wherein the tether has a functional length of at least 1 .2 m.

14. The system of any one of claims 7 to 10 wherein the tether has a functional length of at least 1 .5 m.

15. The system of any one of claims 7 to 14 wherein each respective at least one engageable portion is a respective engageable unit.

16. The system of any one of claims 7 to 15 wherein each respective connector comprises a respective locking mechanism to hold the respective at least one engageable portion.

17. The system of any one of claims 7 to 16 wherein each respective tether comprises a respective protective sheath internally carrying respective conductors.

18. The system of any one of claims 7 to 17 wherein each respective at least one engageable portion defines at least five conduction paths.

19. The system of any one of claims 7 to 18 wherein the vehicles have chargeroutput parameters; two or more respective charger-output parameters of the charger-output parameters are mutually different; and each respective charger comprises a respective information receiver, to receive information characterising the respective charger-output parameters; and has a respective charger output that varies in response to the respective information receiver.

20. The system of claim 19 wherein the information receiver comprises a wirelesssignal receiver.21 . A charger for charging vehicles; wherein each respective vehicle of the vehicles is a respective micromobility vehicle and comprises a respective battery; the charger comprises a respective at least one engageable portion; and a respective tether tethering the respective at least one engageable portion; and each respective at least one engageable portion is engageable with each respective vehicle to convey the power to the respective the battery and secure the respective vehicle; and the tether has a functional length of at least 0.5 m.

22. The charger of claim 21 wherein the tether has a functional length of at least 0.8 m.

23. The charger of claim 21 or 22 or 23 wherein each respective at least one engageable portion is a respective engageable unit.

24. The charger of any one of claims 21 to 23 wherein each respective connector comprises a respective locking mechanism to hold the respective at least one engageable portion.

25. The charger of any one of claims 21 to 24 wherein each respective tether comprises a respective protective sheath internally carrying respective conductors.

26. The charger of any one of claims 21 to 25 wherein each respective at least one engageable portion defines at least five conduction paths.

27. The charger of any one of claims 21 to 26 wherein the vehicles have chargeroutput parameters; two or more respective charger-output parameters of the charger-output parameters are mutually different; and the charger comprises an information receiver, to receive information characterising the respective charger-output parameters; and has a charger output that varies in response to the information receiver.

28. A charger for charging vehicles; wherein each respective vehicle of the vehicles is a respective micromobility vehicle and comprises a respective battery; the vehicles have charger-output parameters; two or more respective charger-output parameters of the charger-output parameters are mutually different; andthe charger comprises a respective information receiver, to receive information characterising the respective charger-output parameters; and has a respective charger output that varies in response to the respective information receiver.

29. The charger of claim 27 or 28 wherein the information receiver comprises a wireless-signal receiver.

30. A connector; wherein a charger is for charging vehicles; each respective vehicle of the vehicles is a respective micromobility vehicle; comprises a respective battery; and has respective charger-output parameters; two or more of the vehicles have mutually different charger-output parameters; the connector comprises a mounting arrangement by which the connector is mountable on a selected vehicle of the vehicles; a power receiver for receiving electricity from the charger; and a power transmitter for transmitting the electricity to the battery of the selected vehicle; an electronic identifier;wherein the electronic identifier is responsive to a signal from the charger to convey information characterising charger-output parameters of the selected vehicle; and reconfigurable to suit each of the two or more vehicles.

31. A lock comprising a housing having an interior, an exterior and a dock body; the dock-body defining a dock opening from the exterior and into which an engageable element is insertable; and having a transverse-opening; a latching element movable from disengaged position to an engaged position at which the latching element is engaged with the engageable element via the transverse-opening to latch the engageable element; and the dock body about a sealing interface encircling the transverse-opening to limit water ingress via the transverse-opening.

32. A plug co-operable with a connector and comprising an engageable element to be received and latched by the connector; and contacts spaced from the engageable element and co-operable with complementary contacts of the the connector to transmit power to the connector.

33. The plug of claim 32 in combination with the connector, wherein the plug and the connector are magnetically co-operable to magnetically urge the connector and the plug relatively towards mutual engagement.

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