Charging base for portable rechargeable devices

Abstract

A charging base for a rechargeable device includes a housing and at least two charging contacts. A power switch is operatively connected to the at least two charging contacts. The power switch is operable between an open position in which electrical current is prevented from flowing to the at least two charging contacts, and a closed position in which electrical current is allowed to flow to the at least two electrical contacts. A proximity sensor is operatively connected to the power switch. The proximity sensor is configured to control the power switch to allow electrical current to flow to the at least two charging contacts when the proximity sensor senses a rechargeable device less than a predetermined distance from the proximity sensor.

Description

CHARGING BASE FOR PORTABLE RECHARGEABLE DEVICESFIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0001] The disclosure relates to portable rechargeable devices and more specifically to a charging base for portable rechargeable devices.BACKGROUND

[0002] As modern society becomes increasingly more mobile, there is a need for portable charging of electronic devices. Generally, small portable electronic devices can be recharged by a small backup battery. However, such small backup batteries are only capable of providing a few charges of a small portable electronic device. The small backup batteries are not capable of providing power for larger electronic devices, such as laptop computers, televisions, due to their limited charging capacity.

[0003] Current portable charging devices use an external power adapter / battery charger or a built-in battery charger that may include a by-directional inverter / charger. Some portable charging devices use charging speeds recommended by the battery manufacturer to prolong life, such as 20h for Lead-Acid batteries or 5h for Li-ion batteries. Other portable charging devices feature a fast charge feature ranging from 2h to 5 min, which provides faster charging at the expense of shorter battery life, more expensive and bulky circuitry, more dissipated heat, and safety challenges.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0004] According to a first embodiment, a charging base for a rechargeable device includes a housing and at least two charging contacts operatively connected to, and partially extending outward from, the housing. An electrical connection is at least partially disposed within the housing and operatively connected to the at least two charging contacts. The electrical connection is adapted for transmitting electrical power to the at least two charging contacts from an electrical power source. A power switch is operatively connected to the at least two charging contacts. The power switch is operable between an open position in which electrical current is prevented from flowing to the at least two charging contacts, and a closed position in which electrical current is allowed to flow to the at least two electrical contacts. A proximity sensor is operatively connected to the power switch. The proximity sensor is configured to control the power switch to allow electrical current to flow to the at least two charging contacts when the proximity sensor senses a rechargeable device less than a predetermined distance from the proximity sensor.

[0005] According to a second embodiment, a combination charging base and rechargeable device includes a rechargeable device and a charging base. The rechargeable device includes a device housing and a rechargeable battery disposed within the device housing. A device electrical contact is disposed on an outer surface of the device housing. The device electrical contact is adapted to receive electrical power from a power source. The charging base includes a base housing and at least two base charging contacts operatively connected to, and partially extending outward from, the housing. An electrical connection is at least partially disposed within the housing and operatively connected to the at least two charging contacts. The electrical connection is adapted for transmitting electrical power to the at least two charging contacts from an electrical power source. A power switch is operatively connected to the at least two charging contacts. The power switch is operable between an open position in which electrical current is prevented from flowing to the at least two charging contacts, and a closed position in which current is allowed to the at least two electrical contacts. A proximity sensor is operatively connected to the power switch. The proximity sensor is configured to control the power switch to allow electrical current to flow to the at least two charging contacts when the proximity sensor senses a rechargeable device less than a predetermined distance from the proximity sensor.

[0001] The foregoing first or second embodiment of a charging base or charging base and portable power system may further include any one or more of the following optional features, structures, and / or forms.

[0006] In some optional forms, the proximity sensor is a magnetic field sensor.

[0007] In other optional forms, the predetermined distance is 4 cm or less, preferably 2 cm or less and more preferably 1 cm or less.

[0008] In yet other optional forms, the at least two charging contacts extend outward, away from the housing a distance greater than the predetermined distance, so that the at least two charging contacts are configured to make contact with a rechargeable device before the proximity sensor is activated.

[0009] In yet other optional forms, the at least two charging contacts are pivotably mounted within the housing, the at least two charging contacts being configured to compress after making contact with a rechargeable device, and before the proximity sensor is activated.

[0010] In yet other optional forms, the proximity sensor is a Hall effect sensor, a reed switch, or a signal contact.

[0011] In yet other optional forms, the proximity sensor is a Hall effect sensor, the Hall effect sensor sensing a magnetic field strength from a magnet on a rechargeable device, the magnetic field strength being correlated to a distance of the magnet from the Hall effect sensor, and when the sensed magnetic field strength exceeds a strength corresponding to the predetermined distance, the Hall effect sensor causes the power switch to close, thereby sending power to the at least two charging contacts.

[0012] In yet other optional forms, the proximity sensor is a signal contact and the signal contact extends outward from the housing a distance that is less than or equal to the predetermined distance.

[0013] In yet other optional forms, the at least two charging contacts extend outward, away from the base housing a first distance and the signal contact extends outward away from the base housing a second distance, the second distance being less than the first distance, so that the signal contact makes contact with the rechargeable device after the at least two charging contacts make contact with the rechargeable device when the rechargeable device is connected to the charging base, and the signal contact breaks contact with the rechargeable device before the at least two charging contacts break contact with the rechargeable device when the rechargeable device is removed from the charging base.

[0014] In yet other optional forms, the housing includes a central raised platform and an outer annular platform, and the at least two charging contacts extend outward from the central raised platform.

[0015] In yet other optional forms, the proximity sensor is located within the central raised platform.

[0016] In yet other optional forms, the proximity sensor is centrally located within the central raised platform and the at least two charging contacts are disposed radially outward of the proximity sensor, towards a perimeter of the central raised platform.

[0017] In yet other optional forms, a first charging contact of the at least two charging contacts is located a greater radial distance from the proximity sensor than a second charging contact of the at least two charging contacts.

[0018] In yet other optional forms, the central raised platform includes a circumferential chamfered surface.

[0019] In yet other optional forms, the at least two charging contacts comprise a non-noble metal coating.

[0020] In yet other optional forms, the housing includes a ferrous metal plate.

[0021] In yet other optional forms, the ferrous metal plate cooperates with a magnet disposed on or in the rechargeable device to produce a combined contact force (weight plus magnetic force) of greater than 1 .96 N (which corresponds to the weight of a 200 g object under standard conditions), and preferably greater than 3.92 N (which corresponds to the weight of a 400 g object under standard conditions).

[0022] In yet other optional forms, a removable external skin covers at least part of the housing.

[0023] In yet other optional forms, a light element is disposed on a bottom of the housing.

[0024] In yet other optional forms, the light element emits light in an annular ring extending at least partially around a perimeter of the bottom of the housing.

[0025] In yet other optional forms, the light element is activated by a capacitive sensor that senses touch on an exterior surface of the housing.

[0026] In yet other optional forms, a translucent disc is disposed on the bottom of the housing, the translucent disc diffusing light from the light element at least partially around a perimeter of the bottom of the housing.

[0027] In yet other optional forms, the device electrical contact comprises two annular rings on a bottom of the device housing.

[0028] In yet other optional forms, the two annular rings are concentric with one another.

[0029] In yet other optional forms, a recessed cone-shaped surface is disposed on a bottom of the device housing.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] While the specification concludes with claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter, which is regarded as forming the present invention, the invention will be better understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0031] FIG. 1 A is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a rechargeable device and a charging base constructed in accordance with the teachings of the disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 1 B is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a rechargeable device and the charging base of FIG. 1A.

[0033] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a rechargeable device and the charging base of FIG. 1 A.

[0034] FIG. 3A is a bottom perspective view of the rechargeable device of FIG. 1 A.

[0035] FIG. 3B is a bottom perspective view of the rechargeable device of FIG. 1 B.

[0036] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of the charging base of FIG. 1 A.

[0037] FIG. 5A is a bottom perspective view of the charging base of FIG. 4 with a charging cord fully engaged.

[0038] FIG. 5B is a bottom perspective view of the charging base of FIG. 4 with the charging cord partially removed.

[0039] FIG. 7A is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rechargeable device and the charging base of FIG. 1 A.

[0040] FIG. 7B is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the rechargeable device and the charging base of FIG. 1 B.

[0041] FIG. 8 is a close-up cross-sectional view of a connection between the rechargeable device and the charging base of FIG. 1 A.

[0042] FIG. 9 is a bottom perspective view of the connection of FIG. 8.

[0043] FIG. 10 a super close-up view of the connection of FIG. 8.

[0044] FIG. 1 1 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a rechargeable device and a charging base constructed in accordance with the teachings of the disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 12A is a top perspective view of the charging base of FIG. 11 .

[0046] FIG. 12B is a top perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the charging base ofFIG. 11.

[0047] FIG. 13A is an exploded perspective view of the charging base of FIG. 12A, including a removable skin.

[0048] FIG. 13B is an exploded perspective view of the charging base of FIG. 12B, including a removable skin.

[0049] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the charging base of FIG. 12A.

[0050] FIG. 15A is a cross-sectional view of the charging base of FIG. 12B.

[0051] FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view of an alternate embodiment of the charging base ofFIG. 12B.

[0052] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of multiple charging bases of the embodiment of FIG. 12B, each charging base having a different removable skin with a different color, pattern, or texture.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] Unless specifically stated otherwise, any feature, structural element, or function of one described embodiment may be combined with the features, structural elements, and / or functions of any other embodiment described in the specification.

[0054] Turning now to FIGS. 1-10, a combination 100 charging base and rechargeable device includes a rechargeable device 10a, 10b, 10c and a charging base 60. While the rechargeable devices 10a, 10b, 10c are described as different embodiments, each of the rechargeable devices 10a, 10b, 10c, cooperate with the charging base 60 to recharge the rechargeable batteries within the rechargeable devices 10a, 10b, 10c, as described further below. The rechargeable devices 10a, 10b, 10c, may have different dimensions (e.g., heights, diameters, etc.), different button configurations, different plug configurations, and different external housing shapes, among other differences. However, the electrical connection structure of each of the rechargeable devices 10a, 10b, 10c, is as described below and the electrical connection structure cooperates with the charging base 60 described herein. Other differences between the rechargeable devices 10a, 10b, and 10c may exist, but are not described further herein, but are evident from the drawings.

[0055] The rechargeable devices and charging bases described herein may cooperate with one another, as described, or the rechargeable devices and charging bases may be used as stand-alone devices, and / or may be used in combination with other rechargeable devices and other charging bases. The rechargeable devices and charging bases described herein are versatile. For example, the charging bases described herein may be used to charge other types of rechargeable devices

[0056] The rechargeable devices include a device housing 12a, 12b, 12c, and a rechargeable battery 14a, 14b disposed within the device housing 12a, 12b, 12c. A device electrical 14 contact is disposed on an outer surface of the device housing 12a, 12b. The device electrical contact 14 is adapted to receive electrical power from a power source.

[0057] The charging base 60 includes a base housing 62 and at least two base charging contacts 64a, 64b operatively connected to, and partially extending outward from, the housing 62 . At least a portion of the at least two base charging contacts 64a, 64b are exposed, uncovered, and unprotected, extending above a surface of the base housing to facilitate rotationally independent connections between the rechargeable device 10a, 10b, 10c, and the charging base 60, as is further discussed below. An electrical connection 66, such as a power cord, is at least partially disposed within the housing 62 and operatively connected to the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b. In some embodiments, the electrical connection 66 may comprise a flat power cable that has a greater width dimension than a height dimension. The electrical connection 66 is adapted for transmitting electrical power to the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b from an electrical power source. The electrical connection 66 may include a power transformer and rectification box 68 including a transformer (not shown, but located in the transformer and rectification box 68) configured to reduce voltage in the charging circuit and a rectifier (not shown but located in the transformer and rectification box 68) configured to convert AC power to DC power in the charging circuit. In the disclosed embodiments, the electrical connection 66 supplies power to the at least two charging contacts between 30 W and 200 W, typically at 5 A and / or 12V, which quickly charges the rechargeable device 10a, 10b, 10c, without significantly affecting battery life.

[0058] A power switch 70 is disposed on a printed circuit board (PCB) 72 and the power switch 70 is operatively connected to the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b. The power switch 70 is operable between an open position in which electrical current is prevented from flowing to the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b, and a closed position in which current is allowed to the at least two electrical contacts 64a, 64b.

[0059] Because the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b extend above the base housing 62 and are exposed to facilitate rotationally independent connections, as described above, the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b are susceptible to short circuiting and arcing if an electrically conductive object contacts the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b when the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b are powered. To solve this problem, a proximity sensor 74 is operatively connected to the power switch 70. The proximity sensor 74 is configured to control the power switch 70 to allow electrical current to flow to the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b when the proximity sensor 74 senses a rechargeable device 10a, 10b, 10c less than a predetermined distance D from the proximity sensor 74.

[0060] In some embodiments, such as the embodiments of FIGS. 1 -10, the proximity sensor 74 is a magnetic field sensor, such as a Hall-effect sensor or a reed switch that senses a magnetic field generated by a magnet 18 located in a bottom of the housing 12a, 12b, 12c, of the rechargeable device 10a, 10b, 10c. The magnetic field sensor senses a magnetic field strength from a magnet on a rechargeable device, the magnetic field strength being correlated to a distance of the magnet from the Hall effect sensor, and when the sensed magnetic field strength exceeds a strength corresponding to the predetermined distance, the magnetic field sensor causes the power switch to close, thereby sending power to the at least two charging contacts.

[0061] In some embodiments, the predetermined distance D is 4 cm or less, preferably 2 cm or less and more preferably 1 cm or less. Distances in this range are small enough that the proximity switch 74 would not be activated until the distance was too small to insert a finger or other body part between the electrical contacts 64a, 64b, and the rechargeable device 10a, 10b, 10c, which reduces the chance of an electrical shock to a body part. Thus, the proximity switch 74 provides an important safety feature for the charging base 60.

[0062] In some embodiments, the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b extend outward, away from the base housing 62 a distance greater than the predetermined distance D, so that the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b are configured to make contact with a rechargeable device 10a, 10b, 10c, more specifically with the electrical contacts 14, before the proximity sensor 74 is activated. By extending outward greater than the predetermined distance D, the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b make contact with the electrical contacts 14 before the proximity switch allows the power switch 70 to send power to the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b. By completing the electrical contact before power is supplied, chances of electrical arching are minimized. Electrical arcing can be particularly problematic for electrical contacts having a noble metal coating, such as gold. Noble metal electrical contact coatings, such as gold electrical contact coatings generally provide low resistance at low contact force and generally do not produce oxides however, noble metal electrical contact coatings, such as gold, are generally fragile and have relatively low melting temperatures which causes noble metal electrical contact coatings, such as gold, to be susceptible to damage and / or vaporization by electrical arcing. Moreover, noble metal electrical contact coatings can become expensive for larger ring contacts. In order to further reduce the chances of electrical coating vaporization due to electrical arching, some disclosed embodiments of the charging base use a non-noble metal coating, such as nickel, to coat the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b.

[0063] In some embodiments, the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b are pivotably mounted within the housing 62. More specifically, the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b may be attached to the PCB 72 by pivoting arms 76. As the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b make contact with the electrical contact 14 on the rechargeable device 10a, 10b, 10c, the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b are configured to compress before the proximity sensor 75 is activated. Because the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b are pivoting as they meet the electrical contact 14, a wiping action is produced that wipes or drags the contact points of the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b across the electrical contact 14, which scrapes and removes oxidized material from both the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b, and the electrical contact 14, thereby improving electrical contact and electrical power transfer efficiency.

[0064] In some embodiments, the housing 62 includes a central raised platform 80 and an outer annular platform 82. The at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b extend outward from the central raised platform 80. The at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b are exposed, allowing for 360 degree rotational contact between the rechargeable device 10a, 10b, 10c, and the charging base 60. As the rechargeable device 10a, 10b, 10c, is lowered onto the charging base 60 from above, the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b make electrical contact with a first device electrical contact 42 and a second device electrical contact 44 (FIG. 9) on the bottom of the rechargeable device 10a, 10b, 10c. As a result, electrical connection between the rechargeable device 10a, 10b, 10c, and the charging base 60 is not dependent upon a certain rotational orientation (about a vertical axis). In other words, the charging base 60 universally accepts the rechargeable device 10a, 10b, 10c in any vertical rotation orientation. The first device electrical contact 42 and the second device electrical contact 44 comprise annular flat rings located in a recessed bottom surface 46 of the device housing 12a. The annular flat first and second device electrical contacts 42, 44 also facilitate the rotationally independent connection between the rechargeable device 10a, 10b, 10c, and the charging base 60.

[0065] The proximity sensor 74 may also be located within the central raised platform 80 The proximity sensor 74 is centrally located within the central raised platform 80 and the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b are disposed radially outward of the proximity sensor 74, towards a perimeter of the central raised platform 80.

[0066] In some embodiments, the first charging contact 64a of the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b is located a greater radial distance from the proximity sensor 74 than a second charging contact 64b of the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b.

[0067] In some embodiments, the central raised platform 80 includes a circumferential chamfered surface 84 and the bottom of the device housing 12a, 1 b, 12c may include a recessed cone-shaped surface 32. The circumferential chamfered surface 84 and the recessed cone-shaped surface 32 cooperate to self center the rechargeable device 10a, 10b, 10c on the charging base 60, while universally accepting the rechargeable device 10a, 10b, 10c, in any rotational orientation about a vertical axis, as described above.

[0068] Turning now to FIGS. 11 -16, a second embodiment of a charging base 160 is described with reference to a fourth embodiment of a rechargeable device 10d. Some elements of the charging base 160 described in FIGS. 11 -16 are the same as the charging base 60 described in FIGS. 1-10. Where the same elements exist, they may be omitted in the discussion of FIGS. 1 1 -16 in the interest of brevity. Any element discussed with respect to the charging base 60 in FIGS. 1 -10 is understood to be capable of existing in the charging base 160 of FIGS. 12-16, unless stated otherwise. Likewise, any element or feature discussed with respect to the charging base 160 of FIGS. 11 -16 may be incorporated into the charging base 60 of FIGS. 1 -10, unless stated otherwise.

[0069] The charging base 160 of FIGS. 11 -16 is generally thinner and lighter than the charging base 60 of FIGS. 1 -10. The charging base 160 of FIGS. 1 1-16 also has generally smaller diameter than the charging base 60 of FIGS. 1-10. The charging base 160 of FIGS. 11 - 16 also includes a ferrous metal plate, which will be discussed further hereinafter.

[0070] Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 -10, the charging base 160 of FIGS. 1 1 -16 The charging base 160 includes a base housing 162 and at least two base charging contacts 164a, 164b operatively connected to, and partially extending outward from, the housing 162. An electrical connection 166 is at least partially disposed within the housing 162 and operatively connected to the at least two charging contacts 164a, 164b. The electrical connection 166 is adapted for transmitting electrical power to the at least two charging contacts 164a, 164b from an electrical power source. The electrical connection 166 may include a power transformer and a rectifier (not shown, but similar to the power transformer and rectifier in FIG. 6).

[0071] A power switch (not shown in FIGS. 11 -16, but operably connected to the PCB 172) is operatively connected to the at least two charging contacts 164a, 164b. The power switch is operable between an open position in which electrical current is prevented from flowing to the at least two charging contacts 164a, 164b, and a closed position in which current is allowed to the at least two electrical contacts 164a, 164b.

[0072] A proximity sensor (not shown in FIGS. 11 -15A, but may take the form of the magnetic field sensor described above) is operatively connected to the power switch. In one embodiment, illustrated in FIG. 15B, the proximity sensor may comprise a signal contact 175. The proximity sensor is configured to control the power switch to allow electrical current to flow to the at least two charging contacts 164a, 164b when the proximity sensor senses a rechargeable device 10d less than a predetermined distance D from the proximity sensor.

[0073] In the embodiment of FIG. 15B, the at least two charging contacts 164a, 164b extend outward, away from the base housing 162 a distance greater than the signal contact 175 so that the at least two charging contacts 164a, 164b make contact with the rechargeable device 10d, before the proximity sensor is activated. By extending outward a distance greater than the signal contact 175, the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b make contact with the electrical contacts on the rechargeable device 10d before the proximity switch allows the power switch to send power to the at least two charging contacts 164a, 164b. By completing the electrical contact before power is supplied, chances of electrical arcing are minimized.

[0074] Said another way, the at least two charging contacts 164a. 164b extend outward, away from the base housing 162 a first distance and the signal contact 175 extends outward away from the base housing 162 a second distance, the second distance being less than the first distance, so that the signal contact 175 makes contact with the rechargeable device after the at least two charging contacts 164a, 164b make contact with the rechargeable device when the rechargeable device is connected to the charging base 160, and the signal contact 175 breaks contact with the rechargeable device before the at least two charging contacts 164a, 164b break contact with the rechargeable device when the rechargeable device is removed from the charging base 160. Thus, in this aspect, the predetermined distance is set by the distance the signal contact extends from the base housing 162.

[0075] In other embodiments, the signal contact and the magnetic sensor could be combined so that power would not be supplied to the at least two charging contacts 164a, 164b until both the signal contact made electrical contact with the rechargeable device and the magnetic sensor sensed proximity of the rechargeable device. Similarly, power would be removed from the at least two charging contacts 164a, 164b when either the signal contact loses contact with the rechargeable device, or the magnetic sensor does not sense the rechargeable device closer than the predetermined distance.

[0076] Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 -10, the at least two charging contacts 164a, 164b are pivotably mounted within the housing 162. More specifically, the at least two chargingcontacts 164a, 164b may be attached to the PCB 172 by pivoting arms 176. As the at least two charging contacts 164a, 164b make contact with the electrical contact on the rechargeable device 10d, the at least two charging contacts 164a, 164b are configured to compress before the proximity sensor is activated. Because the at least two charging contacts 164a, 164b are pivoting as they meet the electrical contact on the rechargeable device 10d, a wiping action is produced that wipes or drags the contact points of the at least two charging contacts 164a, 164b across the electrical contact on the rechargeable device 10d, which scrapes and removes oxidized material from both the at least two charging contacts 164a, 164b, and the electrical contact on the rechargeable device, thereby improving electrical contact and electrical power transfer efficiency.

[0077] Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 1 -10, the housing 162 includes a central raised platform 180 and an outer annular platform 182. The at least two charging contacts 164a, 164b extend outward from the central raised platform 180. The proximity sensor, for example the signal contact 175, may also be located within, and extend outward from, the central raised platform 180. The proximity sensor is centrally located within the central raised platform 180 and the at least two charging contacts 164a, 164b are disposed radially outward of the proximity sensor, towards a perimeter of the central raised platform 180.

[0078] In the embodiment of FIGS. 11 -16, the outer annular platform 182 may comprise a ferrous metal plate 189. The ferrous metal plate 189 may cooperate with magnets on the rechargeable device 10d (not shown) to produce a contact force (i.e., a combined force of the weight of the rechargeable device 10d and the magnetic force produced between the ferrous metal plate 189 and the magnets on the rechargeable device 10d when the rechargeable device is seated on the charging plate 160 in a charging position) of 2 N (equal to the weight of a 100 g object under standard conditions and 1 N of magnetic force) or more, preferably 3 N (equal to the weight of a 200 g object under standard conditions and 1 N of magnetic force) or more, and more preferably 4 N (equal to the weight of a 300 g object under standard conditions and 1 N of magnetic force) or more, between the rechargeable device 10d and the charging base 160. Generally, the magnetic force produced between the ferrous metal plate 189 and the magnets on the rechargeable device 10d should be at least 1 N. Other combinations of weight and magnetic force are possible as long as the combination is 2 N or greater, preferably 3 N or greater, and more preferably 4 N or greater. For example, a 50 g object and a 1 .5 N magnetic force would produce approximately 2 N of combined force. In another example, a 200 g object and a 2 N magnetic force would produce approximately a 4 N combined force. Othercombinations are possible. The contact force stabilizes the rechargeable device 10d on the charging base 160 and reduces the likelihood that the rechargeable device 10 may tip over. The contact force in the disclosed ranges also produces enough force to keep the at least two charging contacts 64a, 64b engaged with the rechargeable device to ensure proper power transfer. The ferrous metal plate 189 may include a cut-out or channel 191 to facilitate power cord clearance.

[0079] The embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 11 -16 may include, a removable external skin 190 (see FIGS. 13A, 13B, and 16) that covers at least part of the housing 162. The removable external skin 190 may comprise different colors, patterns, and / or textures for aesthetic variability to match or complement a user’s decor.

[0080] The embodiment of FIGS. 1 1 -16 includes a light element 192 (such as an light emitting diode (LED)) disposed on a bottom of the housing 162. The light element 192 emits light in an annular ring extending at least partially around a perimeter of the bottom of the housing 162. Diffusion of light emitting from the light element 192 may be facilitated by a translucent disc 194 disposed on a bottom of the housing 162. The translucent disc 194 may extend partially, or completely around the periphery of the bottom of the housing 162.

[0081] In some embodiments, the light element 192 may be activated by a capacitive sensor that senses touch on an exterior surface of the housing 162. A processor may control functions of the light element 192 based on inputs from the capacitive sensor. For example, repeated activations of the capacitive sensor by touching the housing 162 may cause the light element 192 to change a light characteristic emitted. For example, the light element 192 may change colors, intensity, light and dark patterns and durations (e.g., flashes), and directional light emissions (e.g., emit light over one half, one quarter, or one arc of the housing 162, or create a light segment that moves around the circumference of the housing 162 to produce a traveling ring-like effect). Alternatively, the light characteristic may change based on other inputs, for example inputs from a communication device, that communicate certain messages to a user, for example, a weather alert may cause the light to flash red, or another color.

[0082] Generally, the rechargeable devices 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, may include one or more of the following features or structures. In some embodiments, the rechargeable devices 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, may include a rechargeable battery 13 disposed within the housing 12a, 12b, 12c. In the illustrated embodiment, the rechargeable devices 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, may provide portable power for electronic devices when no other source of power is available. For example, in a remote environment, such as camping, the rechargeable devices may provide power to do oneor more of the following: recharge portable electronic devices, such as cell phones or tablet computers, run or recharge laptop computers, run a television, run a WiFi network, run a kitchen appliance, such as a blender, run lights, or run other electronic equipment.

[0083] One or more power outlets are disposed on the exterior of the housing 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d for providing electrical current from the rechargeable battery 13 to a rechargeable device or electrical device (not shown), such as a cellular phone, a tablet, a laptop, a television, a light, a WiFi router, etc., that is electrically connected to the power outlet for the purpose of recharging the rechargeable device or for providing electricity to the electrical device. The power outlets may supply AC power or DC power. Moreover, the power outlets may comprise a plug receptacle, such as a USB-C receptacle or a USB-A receptacle. Other types of plug receptacles may be used in other embodiments, such as a three-prong receptacle, a two-prong receptacle, a mini USB-B receptacle, or a micro USB-B receptacle.

[0084] The disclosed rechargeable devices may include an illuminating device, such as a circumferential light, disposed about a perimeter of the housing, proximate the top of the housing. For example, for cylindrical housings, the illuminating device may project from substantially 360 degrees around the housing.

[0085] In some embodiments, the rechargeable device 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d may include a tiltable magnetic charging lid pivotably connected to the housing, proximate the top of the housing. The tiltable magnetic charging lid may include a wireless induction charging coil, a magnet, and a charging interface formed by a top surface of the tiltable magnetic charging lid. The tiltable magnetic charging lid is tiltable from zero to greater than 70 degrees, more preferably greater than 90 degrees and even more preferably up to at least 180 degrees relative to the top 13 of the housing 12.

[0086] The disclosed rechargeable devices may also include a recessed storage compartment disposed in the top of the housing. The recessed storage compartment is recessed relative to the top of the housing. The recessed storage compartment 5 is adapted to store small items, such as charging cords, ear buds, wallets, jewelry, etc. The tiltable magnetic charging lid covers the recessed storage compartment when the tiltable magnetic charging lid is in a closed position. The tiltable magnetic charging lid exposes at least a part of the recessed storage compartment when the tillable magnetic charging lid is not in the closed position.

[0087] The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each suchdimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean “about 40 mm.”

[0088] Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or related patent or application and any patent application or patent to which this application claims priority or benefit thereof, is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.

[0089] While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A charging base for a rechargeable device, the charging base comprising: a housing; at least two charging contacts operatively connected to, and partially extending outward from, the housing; an electrical connection at least partially disposed within the housing and operatively connected to the at least two charging contacts, the electrical connection being adapted for transmitting electrical power to the at least two charging contacts from an electrical power source; a power switch operatively connected to the at least two charging contacts, the power switch being operable between an open position in which electrical current is prevented from flowing to the at least two charging contacts, and a closed position in which electrical current is allowed to flow to the at least two electrical contacts; and a proximity sensor, the proximity sensor being operatively connected to the power switch, the proximity sensor being configured to control the power switch to allow electrical current to flow to the at least two charging contacts when the proximity sensor senses a rechargeable device less than a predetermined distance from the proximity sensor.

2. The charging base of claim 1 , wherein the proximity sensor is a magnetic field sensor.

3. The charging base of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the predetermined distance is 1 cm or less.

4. The charging base of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the at least two charging contacts extend outward, away from the housing a distance greater than the predetermined distance, so that the at least two charging contacts are configured to make contact with a rechargeable device before the proximity sensor is activated.

5. The charging base of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the at least two charging contacts are pivotably mounted within the housing, the at least two charging contacts being configured to compress after making contact with a rechargeable device, and before the proximity sensor is activated.

6. The charging base of any one of claims 1-5 wherein the proximity sensor is a hall-hall effect sensor, a reed switch, or a signal contact.

7. The charging base of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the proximity sensor is a signal contact and the signal contact extends outward from the housing a distance that is less than or equal to the predetermined distance.

8. The charging base of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the housing includes a central raised platform and an outer annular platform, and the at least two charging contacts extend outward from the central raised platform.

9. The charging base of claim 8, wherein the proximity sensor is located within the central raised platform.

10. The charging base of claim 8 or 9, wherein the proximity sensor is centrally located within the central raised platform and the at least two charging contacts are disposed radially outward of the proximity sensor, towards a perimeter of the central raised platform.11 . The charging base of claim 10, wherein a first charging contact of the at least two charging contacts is located a greater radial distance from the proximity sensor than a second charging contact of the at least two charging contacts.

12. The charging base of any one of claims 8-11 , wherein the central raised platform includes a circumferential chamfered surface.

13. The charging base of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the at least two charging contacts comprise a non-noble metal coating.

14. The charging base of any one of claims 1-13, wherein the housing includes a ferrous metal plate.

15. The charging base of any one of claims 1-14, further comprising a removable external skin that covers at least part of the housing.

16. The charging base of any one of claims 1-15, further comprising a light element disposed on a bottom of the housing.

17. The charging base of claim 16, wherein the light element emits light in an annular ring extending at least partially around a perimeter of the bottom of the housing.

18. The charging base of claim 16 or 17, wherein the light element is activated by a capacitive sensor that senses touch on an exterior surface of the housing.

19. The charging base of any one of claims 16-18, further comprising a translucent disc disposed on the bottom of the housing, the translucent disc diffusing light from the light element at least partially around a perimeter of the bottom of the housing.

20. A combination charging base and rechargeable device, the combination comprising: a rechargeable device, the rechargeable comprising, a device housing, a rechargeable battery disposed within the device housing, and a device electrical contact disposed on an outer surface of the device housing, the device electrical contact being adapted to receive electrical power from a power source; and a charging base comprising, a base housing, at least two base charging contacts operatively connected to, and partially extending outward from, the housing, an electrical connection at least partially disposed within the housing and operatively connected to the at least two charging contacts, the electrical connection being adapted for transmitting electrical power to the at least two charging contacts from an electrical power source; a power switch operatively connected to the at least two charging contacts, the power switch being operable between an open position in which electrical current is prevented from flowing to the at least two charging contacts, and a closed position in which current is allowed to the at least two electrical contacts; and a proximity sensor, the proximity sensor being operatively connected to the power switch, the proximity sensor being configured to control the power switch to allow electrical current to flow to the at least two charging contacts when the proximity sensor senses a rechargeable device less than a predetermined distance from the proximity sensor.21 . The combination of claim 20 or 21 , wherein the proximity sensor is a magnetic field sensor.

22. The combination of claim 20 or claim 21 , wherein the predetermined distance is 1 cm or less.

23. The combination of any one of claims 20-22, wherein the at least two charging contacts extend outward, from the housing a distance greater than the predetermined distance, so that the at least two charging contacts are configured to make contact with a rechargeable device before the proximity sensor is activated.

24. The combination of any one of claims 20-23, wherein the at least two charging contacts are pivotably mounted within the housing, the at least two charging contacts being configured to compress after making contact with a rechargeable device, before the proximity sensor is activated.

25. The combination of any one of claims 20-24 wherein the proximity sensor is a hall-hall effect sensor, a reed switch, or a signal contact.

26. The combination of any one of claims 20-25, wherein the proximity sensor is a signal contact and the signal contact extends outward from the housing a distance that is less than or equal to the predetermined distance.

27. The combination of any one of claims 20-26, wherein the housing includes a central raised platform and an outer annular platform, the at least two charging contacts extending outward away from the central raised platform.

28. The combination of claim 27, wherein the proximity sensor is located within the central raised platform.29 The combination of claim 27 or 28, wherein the proximity sensor is centrally located within the central raised platform and the at least two charging contacts are disposed radially outward of the proximity sensor.

30. The combination of claim 20, wherein a first charging contact of the at least two charging contacts is located a greater radial distance from the proximity sensor than a second charging contact of the at least two charging contacts.31 . The combination of any one of claims 27-30, wherein the central raised platform includes a circumferential chamfered surface.

32. The combination of any one of claims 20-31 , wherein the at least two charging contacts comprise a non-noble metal coating.

33. The combination of any one of claims 20-32, wherein the housing includes a ferrous metal plate.

34. The combination of any one of claims 20-33, further comprising a removable external skin that covers at least part of the base housing.

35. The combination of any one of claims 20-34, further comprising a light element disposed on a bottom of the housing.

36. The combination of claim 36, wherein the light element is configured to emit light in an annular ring extending at least partially around a perimeter of the bottom of the housing.

37. The combination of claim 35 or 36, wherein the light element is activated by a capacitive sensor that senses touch on an exterior surface of the housing.

38. The combination of any one of claims 35-37, further comprising a translucent disc disposed on the bottom of the housing, the translucent disc diffusing light from the light element around a perimeter of the bottom of the housing.

39. The combination of any one of claims 20-38, wherein the device electrical contact comprises two annular rings on a bottom of the device housing.

40. The combination of claim 39, wherein the two annular rings are concentric with one another.41 . The combination of any one of claims 20-40, further comprising a recessed cone- shaped surface on a bottom of the device housing.

42. The charging base of any one of claims 1-19, wherein the at least two charging contacts extend upward from the housing, at least a portion of the at least two charging contacts being exposed, uncovered and unprotected above the base housing.

43. The charging base of any one of claims 1-19 or 42, wherein the at least two charging contacts are supplied with between 200 W and 30 W of power.

44. The combination of any one of claims 20-40, wherein the device electrical contact comprises a first flat annular ring and a second flat annular ring disposed on a recessed bottom surface of the device housing.

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