Power and energy management of an electrified trailer

Abstract

A computer system (600) comprising processing circuitry (602) configured to handle power and / or energy management of an electrified trailer, E-trailer, (1) is provided. The E-trailer (1) is attached to a towing vehicle unit (2). The E-trailer (1) comprises batteries, and is configured with a power and / or energy configuration indicating if, and / or how regenerative electric brakes, an electrical distribution unit, auxiliary equipment, and / or an electric propelling unit are to be used. The processing circuitry (602) is configured to obtain power and / or energy conditions of the batteries to be fulfilled when reaching locations (15) of at least one route (11). The processing circuitry (602) is configured to, when travelling towards the locations (15), recurrently and / or based on a detected triggering event, adapt the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer (1) such that the power and / or energy conditions, respectively, are fulfilled when reaching the locations (15).

Description

POWER AND ENERGY MANAGEMENT OF AN ELECTRIFIED TRAILERTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The disclosure relates generally to power and energy management. In particular aspects, the disclosure relates to power and / or energy management of an Electrified Trailer (E-trailer). The disclosure can be applied to heavy-duty vehicles, such as trucks, buses, and construction equipment, among other vehicle types. Although the disclosure may be described with respect to a particular vehicle, the disclosure is not restricted to any particular vehicle.BACKGROUND

[0002] E-trailers are attached to a respective towing vehicle such a as a tractor and may assist the towing vehicle with propulsion, braking, or reversing operations. E-trailers typically comprise batteries for storing electrical energy, regenerative electric brakes for braking the E- trailer and propelling units, i.e., an electric motors, to be able to supply torque to wheels of the E-trailers. The batteries are charged by using the regenerative electric brakes and the propelling units use energy in the batteries to propel the E-trailer.

[0003] However, when needing to propel an E-trailer such as to reverse the trailer or to assist a towing vehicle in climbing an uphill slop, a set amount of energy may be needed, otherwise the towing vehicle will have to rely only on its own engines or motors.

[0004] Similarly, if to be able to use regenerative electric brakes to brake the E-trailer for an entire downhill slope, then the E-trailer batteries may need to be sufficiently discharged such that they can harvest the energy produced by the regenerative electric brakes.

[0005] Current strategies for handling power and / or energy of E-trailers involve utilizing the extra propulsion and regenerative braking whenever possible, thereby resulting in situations where the E-trailer needs to abruptly stop using its propelling unit due to loss of energy, or stop using its regenerative electric brakes due to a fully charged battery.

[0006] Hence, there is a strive to improve efficiency and usability of E-trailers.SUMMARY

[0007] According to a first aspect of the disclosure, a computer system comprising processing circuitry configured to handle power and / or energy management of an E-trailer is provided. The E-trailer is attached to a towing vehicle unit arranged to travel at least one route. The E-trailer comprises one or more batteries and any one or more out of one or more regenerative electric brakes capable of braking the E-trailer and charging the one or more batteries, an electric propelling unit capable of providing torque to wheels of the E-trailer using power from the one or more batteries, one or more auxiliary equipment attached to the E-trailer and capable of being operated using power from the one or more batteries, and an electrical distribution unit capable of transferring electricity between the one or more batteries and the towing vehicle unit.

[0008] The E-trailer is configured with a power and / or energy configuration indicating if, and / or in which manner, any one or more out of the one or more regenerative electric brakes, the electrical distribution unit, the one or more auxiliary equipment, and / or the electric propelling unit, are to be used.

[0009] The processing circuitry is configured to obtain an indication of one or more power and / or energy conditions of the one or more batteries to be fulfilled when reaching respective one or more locations of the at least one route.

[0010] The processing circuitry is configured to, when travelling towards the one or more locations, adapt the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer such that the one or more power and / or energy conditions, respectively, are fulfilled when reaching the respective one or more locations. Adapting the power and / or energy configuration is performed recurrently and / or based on a detected triggering event.

[0011] The first aspect of the disclosure may seek to improve power and energy efficiency of the E-trailer.

[0012] A technical benefit may include improved efficiency and usability of the E-trailer. This is since by adapting the power and / or energy configuration recurrently and / or based on the detected triggering event, it can be ensured that the E-trailer fulfills the respective one or more power and / or energy conditions when reaching the respective one or more locations. The E-trailer may thereby be enabled to always be used within the limits of the one or morepower and / or energy conditions when reaching the respective one or more locations. As an example, the one or more locations may comprise a work site where the E-trailer needs to have sufficient energy remaining in the one or more batteries such that the E-trailer can perform a series of reversing operations at said work site. As another example, the one or more locations may comprise a start of an uphill slope where the E-trailer is to provide assistance to the towing vehicle unit to provide torque to the wheels of the E-trailer by powering the propelling unit up the slope, thereby requiring a set amount of energy in the one or more batteries. As yet another example, the one or more locations may comprise a start of a downhill slope where the E-trailer is to provide assistance to the towing vehicle unit to provide braking using the regenerative electric brakes, thereby requiring that the one or more batteries does not have too much energy in them as the energy harvested from braking the entire slope needs to be possible to store in the one or more batteries.

[0013] Optionally in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the one or more power and / or energy conditions when reaching a respective location of the one or more locations comprises a minimum power available to be supplied to the E-trailer using the one or more batteries.

[0014] A technical benefit may include improved efficiency and usability of the E-trailer, this is since by ensuring that the minimum power condition is attained when reaching the respective location, it is ensured that the one more batteries have sufficient power for one or more operations when reaching the respective location, e.g., to propel the E-trailer in an uphill slope or to perform a reversing operation at a work site.

[0015] Optionally in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the one or more power and / or energy conditions when reaching a respective location of the one or more locations comprises a minimum State of Charge (SoC) of the one or more batteries.

[0016] A technical benefit may include improved efficiency and usability of the E-trailer, this is since by ensuring that the minimum SoC is attained when reaching the respective location, it is ensured that the one more batteries have sufficient energy for one or more operations when reaching the respective location, e.g., to propel the E-trailer in an uphill slope or to perform a reversing operation at a work site.

[0017] Optionally in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the one or more power conditions when reaching a respective location of the one or more locationscomprises a maximum power available to be supplied to the E-trailer using the one or more batteries.

[0018] A technical benefit may include improved efficiency and usability of the E-trailer, this is since by ensuring that the maximum power condition is attained when reaching the respective location, it is ensured that the one more batteries have capabilities to be subsequently charged e.g., by the one or more regenerative electric brakes, when reaching the respective location, such as when needing to use the one or more regenerative electric brakes to brake the E-trailer in a downhill slope.

[0019] Optionally in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the one or more power conditions when reaching a respective location of the one or more locations comprises a maximum State of Charge, SoC, of the one or more batteries.

[0020] A technical benefit may include improved efficiency and usability of the E-trailer, this is since by ensuring that the maximum power condition is attained when reaching the respective location, it is ensured that the one more batteries have capabilities to be subsequently charged e.g., by the one or more regenerative electric brakes, when reaching the respective location, such as when needing to use the one or more regenerative electric brakes to brake the E-trailer in a downhill slope.

[0021] Optionally in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the one or more power and / or energy conditions when reaching a respective location of the one or more locations comprises a minimum or maximum State of Charge, SoC, of the one or more batteries and / or a minimum or maximum power of the one or more batteries to be supplied to the E-trailer, for the E-trailer to be capable of performing one or more predefined trailer operations at the respective location.

[0022] A technical benefit may include improved efficiency and usability of the E-trailer, this is since by ensuring that the power and / or energy conditions are attained when reaching the respective location, it is ensured that the one more batteries have capabilities to be subsequently charged and / or have sufficient power and / or energy, to performing the one or more predefined trailer operations at the respective location.

[0023] Optionally in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the one or more predefined trailer operations comprises any one or more out of a reversing operation of the E-trailer,an operation to transfer electricity between the one or more batteries and one or more second batteries of the towing vehicle unit by using the electrical distribution unit, an operation to assist the towing vehicle unit in climbing an uphill slope by using the propelling unit to provide torque to wheels of the E-trailer when travelling in the slope, an operation to brake the E-trailer in a downhill slope using the one or more regenerative electric brakes, an operation to operate an auxiliary equipment of the one or more auxiliary equipment attached to the E-trailer, an operation to electrically charge equipment attached to the E-trailer, and an operation to control one or more steered axles of the E-trailer.

[0024] A technical benefit may include improved efficiency and usability of the E-trailer, this is since the power and / or energy conditions may be set to perform any suitable predefined trailer operation, e.g., as listed above.

[0025] Optionally in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the one or more power and / or energy conditions is indicative of a threshold and / or interval needed to be met by a State of Charge, SoC, of the one or more batteries and / or by an available power of the one or more batteries.

[0026] A technical benefit may include improved efficiency and usability of the E-trailer, this is since one or more power and / or energy conditions may be flexibly be set to intervals or specific threshold. This may ensure that the power and / or energy configuration may be more accurately adapted to meet the thresholds and / or intervals.

[0027] Optionally in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the processing circuitry is configured to obtain the indication of the one or more power and / or energy conditions as input from a user interface.

[0028] A technical benefit may include improved efficiency and usability of the E-trailer, this is since a user, such as a driver of the towing vehicle unit, may set a power and / or energy condition to location known by the driver to need assistance by the E-trailer. For example, the user may have previously travelled to or from the location and know that extra braking or propulsion would help when travelling to the location. The user may also have updated knowledge on weather or environmental conditions that may mean that further propulsion isneeded for some uphill slopes, or that it may be efficient and / or preferred to use the regenerative electric brakes for a particular downhill slope.

[0029] Optionally in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the indication is indicative of a first minimum energy needed when reaching a first location of the at least one route, and a second minimum energy needed when reaching a second location of the at least one route.

[0030] A technical benefit may include improved efficiency and usability of the E-trailer, this is since the adaptation of the power and / or energy configuration may be triggered such that different minimum energy conditions can be achieved at different locations of the at least one route. While the example specifies a first and second minimum energy, maximum energy or other energy or power conditions may also apply in a corresponding manner. This means that the adaptation of the power and / or energy configuration may comprise determining a long-term strategy to meet different energy conditions of different locations of the at least one route.

[0031] Optionally in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the processing circuitry is configured to: detect a triggering event, and adapt the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer in response to detecting the triggering event.

[0032] A technical benefit may include improved efficiency and usability of the E-trailer, this is since when the triggering event is detected, it can be known that an event, has occurred, which event may affect the power and / or energy available in the one or more batteries, and therefore, the one or more power and / or energy conditions may not be possible to meet when reach the respective locations, unless adapting the power and / or energy configuration.

[0033] Optionally in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the processing circuitry is configured to detect the triggering event by detecting any one or more out of: an environmental or weather condition of the at least one route and / or in a respective location of the one or more locations, one or more driver inputs or driver actions affecting the power and / or energy conditions of the E-trailer,an update of the at least one route, and detecting a traffic condition such as an accident or congestion in the at least one route.

[0034] A technical benefit may include improved efficiency and usability of the E-trailer, this is since the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer can be adapted when needed due to changes which may affect how the one or more power and / or energy conditions can be met when reaching the respective locations of the at least one route.

[0035] Optionally in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the processing circuitry is configured to adapt the power and / or energy configuration recurrently.

[0036] A technical benefit may include improved efficiency and usability of the E-trailer, this is since the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer is adapted such that it always tries to adapt to meet the one or more power and / or energy conditions when reaching the respective locations of the at least one route. Recurrently as used herein may mean continuously, iteratively, repeatedly, and / or periodically.

[0037] Optionally in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the processing circuitry is configured to adapt the power and / or energy configuration of the E- trailer such that the one or more power and / or energy conditions, respectively, are fulfilled when reaching the respective one or more locations by any one or more out of: increasing or decreasing a usage of the one or more regenerative electric brakes to adjust an energy level of the one or more batteries, increasing or decreasing a usage of using the propelling unit to provide torque to wheels of the E-trailer to adjust an energy level of the one or more batteries,- transferring power between the one or more batteries and one or more second batteries of the towing vehicle unit by using the electrical distribution unit to adjust an energy level of the one or more batteries.

[0038] A technical benefit may include improved efficiency and usability of the E-trailer, this is since the energy levels of the one or more batteries may be efficiently adjusted based to meet the one or more power and / or energy conditions.

[0039] According to a second aspect of the disclosure, an E-trailer is provided. The E- trailer is arranged to be attached to a towing vehicle unit. The E-trailer comprises one or more batteries and the computer system according to the first aspect. The E-trailer further comprises any one or more out of:regenerative electric brakes capable of braking the E-trailer and charging the one or more batteries, an electric propelling unit capable of providing torque to wheels of the E-trailer using power from the one or more batteries, one or more auxiliary equipment attached to the E-trailer and capable of being operated using power from the one or more batteries, and an electrical distribution unit capable of transferring electricity between the one or more batteries and the towing vehicle unit.

[0040] The E-trailer is configured with a power and / or energy configuration indicating if and / or in which manner any one or more out of the one or more regenerative electric brakes, the electrical distribution unit, the one or more auxiliary equipment, and / or the electric propelling unit, are to be used, and / or are allowed to be used.

[0041] The technical benefit of the second aspect corresponds to the technical benefits of the first aspect, and vice versa.

[0042] According to a third aspect of the disclosure, a computer-implemented method for handling power and / or energy management of an E-trailer attached to a towing vehicle unit arranged to travel at least one route is provided.

[0043] The E-trailer comprises one or more batteries, and any one or more out of: one or more regenerative electric brakes capable of braking the E-trailer and charging the one or more batteries, an electric propelling unit capable of providing torque to wheels of the E-trailer using power from the one or more batteries, one or more auxiliary equipment attached to the E-trailer and capable of being operated using power from the one or more batteries, and an electrical distribution unit capable of transferring electricity between the one or more batteries and the towing vehicle unit.

[0044] The E-trailer is configured with a power and / or energy configuration indicating if, and / or in which manner, any one or more out of the one or more regenerative electric brakes, the electrical distribution unit, the one or more auxiliary equipment and / or the electric propelling unit, are to be used.

[0045] The method comprises, by processing circuitry of a computer system, obtaining an indication of one or more power and / or energy conditions of the one or more batteries to be fulfilled when reaching respective one or more locations of the at least one route.

[0046] The method comprises, by the processing circuitry, when travelling towards the one or more locations, adapting the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer such that the one or more power and / or energy conditions, respectively, are fulfilled when reaching the respective one or more locations. Adapting the power and / or energy configuration is performed recurrently and / or based on a detected triggering event.

[0047] Optionally in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, obtaining the indication of the one or more power and / or energy conditions comprises obtaining the indication as input from a user interface.

[0048] Optionally in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, the method comprises, by the processing circuitry, detecting a triggering event. In these examples, adapting the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer is performed in response to detecting the triggering event.

[0049] Optionally in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, adapt the power and / or energy configuration is performed recurrently.

[0050] Optionally in some examples, including in at least one preferred example, adapting the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer such that the one or more power and / or energy conditions, respectively, are fulfilled when reaching the respective one or more locations comprises any one or more out of:- by the processing circuitry, increasing or decreasing a usage of the one or more regenerative electric brakes to adjust an energy level of the one or more batteries,- by the processing circuitry, increasing or decreasing a usage of using the propelling unit to provide torque to wheels of the E-trailer to adjust an energy level of the one or more batteries,- by the processing circuitry, transferring power between the one or more batteries and one or more second batteries of the towing vehicle unit by using the electrical distribution unit to adjust an energy level of the one or more batteries.

[0051] The technical benefits of the third aspect corresponds to the technical benefits of the first aspect, and vice versa.

[0052] The disclosed aspects, examples (including any preferred examples), and / or accompanying claims may be suitably combined with each other as would be apparent to anyone of ordinary skill in the art. Additional features and advantages are disclosed in the following description, claims, and drawings, and in part will be readily apparent therefrom to those skilled in the art or recognized by practicing the disclosure as described herein.

[0053] There are also disclosed herein computer systems, control units, code modules, computer-implemented methods, computer readable media, and computer program products associated with the above discussed technical benefits.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0054] Examples are described in more detail below with reference to the appended drawings.

[0055] FIG. la is an exemplary E-trailer and a towing vehicle unit according to an example.

[0056] FIG. lb is an exemplary E-trailer and at least one route according to an example.

[0057] FIG. 2 is a flow chart of an exemplary method according to an example.

[0058] FIG. 3 illustrates an example scenario.

[0059] FIG. 4 is another view of FIG. la and lb, according to an example.

[0060] FIG. 5 is a flow chart of an exemplary method according to an example.

[0061] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary computer system for implementing examples disclosed herein, according to an example.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0062] The detailed description set forth below provides information and examples of the disclosed technology with sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure.

[0063] In examples herein, to increase efficiency and usability of E-trailers, it is disclosed how to handle power and / or energy management of an E-trailer, such that the E-trailer achieves a set power condition when reaching respective locations.

[0064]

[0065] According to an example, FIG. la illustrates an exemplary E-trailer 1, a towing vehicle unit 2, a computer system 600 and a processing circuitry 602 comprised in the computer system 600.

[0066] The E-trailer 1 may be any suitable electrified trailer.

[0067] The towing vehicle unit 2 is any suitable vehicle able to tow the E-trailer 1, e.g., a truck or a tractor, or a car, or any suitable heavy duty vehicle.

[0068] The E-trailer 1 is arranged to be attached to the towing vehicle unit 2. In the example of FIG. 1, the E-trailer is attached to the towing vehicle unit 2. In other words, the E- trailer 1 may be towed by the towing vehicle unit 2.

[0069] The E-trailer 1 and / or the towing vehicle unit 2 may respectively be autonomously operated and / or operated by a user such as a driver in the towing vehicle unit 2.

[0070] The E-trailer 1 comprises one or more batteries 50. The one or more batteries 50 may comprise any suitable battery for powering the E-trailer 1.

[0071] The E-trailer 1 may comprise one or more regenerative electric brakes 52. The one or more regenerative electric brakes 52 may be capable of braking the E-trailer 1 and at the same time, charge the one or more batteries 50. The one or more regenerative electric brakes 52 may convert kinetic energy of the E-trailer 1 to electrical energy stored into the one or more batteries 50.

[0072] The E-trailer 1 may comprise an electric propelling unit 51.

[0073] The electric propelling unit 51 may be capable of providing torque to wheels of the E-trailer 1 by using power from the one or more batteries 50.

[0074] The electric propelling unit 51 may comprise an electric motor.

[0075] The E-trailer 1 may comprise an electrical distribution unit 53. The electrical distribution unit 53 may be capable of transferring electricity between the one or more batteries 50 and the towing vehicle unit 2, such as to or from one or more second batteries 60 of the towing vehicle 2.

[0076] In other words, the electrical distribution unit 53 may be used to adjust energy levels of the one or more batteries 50.

[0077] The electrical distribution unit 53 and the one or more regenerative brakes 52 may in some examples be the same unit, e.g., as part of a single electrical machine capable of propelling and / or retarding a driveline of the E-trailer 1.

[0078] The E-trailer 1 may further comprise one or more auxiliary equipment 54, such as any one or more out of, a climate control unit, a crane, a tipper, a container lift, and / or a concrete pump, e.g., powered by the one or more batteries 50.

[0079] The E-trailer 1 may further comprise one or more charging equipment, e.g., as part of the one or more auxiliary equipment 54, for electrically charging devices attached to the charging equipment, such as any one or more out of, a charger for handheld devices, or a charger for equipment of the E-trailer, such as the auxiliary equipment, e.g., powered by the one or more batteries 50.

[0080] The E-trailer may be configured with a power and / or energy configuration indicating if and / or in which manner any one or more out of the one or more regenerative electric brakes 52, the electrical distribution unit 53, the one or more auxiliary equipment 54 and / or the electric propelling unit 51, are to be used, and / or are allowed to be used.

[0081] The power and / or energy configuration may further indicate if, and / or in which manner the E-trailer may use other electronic devices.

[0082] The E-trailer 1 is configured with a power and / or energy configuration.

[0083] The power and / or energy configuration may indicate how the E-trailer shall use power and / or energy for different electronic devices of the E-trailer 1 such as any one or more out of the one or more regenerative electric brakes, the electrical distribution unit.

[0084] The power and / or energy configuration may indicate if it is allowed, e.g., by the E-trailer 1, by the towing vehicle unit 2, and / or by a user such as a driver of the towing vehicle unit 2, to use power and / or energy for different electronic devices of the E-trailer 1 such as any one or more out of the one or more regenerative electric brakes, the electrical distribution unit.

[0085] In some examples, the power and / or energy configuration may indicate that the E- trailer 1 shall harvest energy using the regenerative electric brakes 52 when decelerating the towing vehicle unit 2 and / or the E-trailer 1, e.g., in response to a brake request of the towing vehicle unit 2 or in response to a cruise control mode for maintaining a speed of the E-trailer and / or the towing vehicle unit 2, and e.g., when the E-trailer is travelling downhill. In other words, in some examples, the regenerative electric brakes 52 may be triggered to consume energy of the one or more batteries 50.

[0086] In some examples, the power and / or energy configuration may indicate that energy needs to be, or shall be, transferred to the towing vehicle unit 2 using the electricaldistribution unit 53, e.g., to the one or more second batteries 60, such as to reduce the energy levels of the one or more batteries 50 to be able to use the one or more regenerative brakes 52 when braking the E-trailer and / or the towing vehicle unit 2. In other words, in some examples, the one or more batteries 50 may be triggered to power the electrical distribution unit 53 to transfer electricity to the one or more second batteries 60.

[0087] In some examples, the power and / or energy configuration may indicate that energy may freely be consumed from the one or more batteries 50, by a driver of the towing vehicle unit 2, alternatively the one or more batteries 50 shall, when the E-trailer and / or the towing vehicle unit 2 is climbing an uphill slope, power the propelling unit 51 to propel the E-trailer 1 in a same driving direction as the towing vehicle unit 2, to assist the towing vehicle unit 2 in climbing the slope. In other words, in some examples, the power the propelling unit 51 may be triggered to consume energy of the one or more batteries 50.

[0088] In some examples, the power and / or energy configuration may indicate whether or not any one or more out of the one or more charging equipment and / or the one or more auxiliary equipment 54 are to be powered by the one or more batteries 50. In other words, in some examples, the one or more charging equipment and / or the one or more auxiliary equipment 54 may be triggered to consume energy of the one or more batteries 50.

[0089] The towing vehicle unit 2 and / or the E-trailer 1 may comprise sensors for detecting slopes such as to determine when to use the regenerative electric brakes 52, the electrical distribution unit 53, the one or more auxiliary equipment 54, and / or the electric propulsion unit 51, either by measuring an inclination of the slope or by obtaining a location and determining the slope using a location sensor such as a such as using a Global Positioning System (GPS) or a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS).

[0090] FIG. lb illustrates that the towing vehicle unit 2 and the E-trailer 1 may be arranged to travel at least one route 11.

[0091] The at least one route 11 may comprise one or more locations 15.

[0092] The one or more locations 15 may respectively be a coordinate or may be an area, e.g., a distance along the at least one route 11 and / or an area indicated by a coordinate and a radius, or an area indicated in any other suitable manner.

[0093] The one or more locations 15 may be predefined and / or may be at least partly dynamically obtained from a inputting the of the one or more locations 15.

[0094] In some examples herein, as will be further explain with reference to FIG. 2, the E-trailer 1 may need to fulfill one or more power and / or energy conditions of the one or more batteries 50 when reaching respective one or more locations 15 of the at least one route 11, for example, such that there is energy left for the E-trailer to assist towing vehicle unit 2 to climb an uphill slope by powering the propelling unit 51, and / or such that the one or more batteries 50 are sufficiently depleted of energy such that the regenerative electric brakes 52 can be utilized to brake the E-trailer all the way down a downhill slope.

[0095] The one or more power and / or energy conditions may be set by a user, e.g., a driver of the towing vehicle unit 2, which user may have knowledge of the at least one route 11 and / or the one or more locations 15, e.g., that some slopes are difficult to climb under current weather conditions, such that the user can set what power and / or energy is needed for the E-trailer at these one or more locations 15 to assist the towing vehicle unit 2.

[0096] Examples herein may be performed by the computer system 600 and / or the processing circuitry 602 therein.

[0097] In some examples, the computer system 600 and / or processing circuitry 602 therein may be an Electronic Control Unit (ECU).

[0098] In some examples, the computer system 600 and / or processing circuitry 602 is comprised in the towing vehicle unit 2 and / or in the E-trailer 1.

[0099] In some examples, the computer system 600 and / or processing circuitry 602 is comprised at a remote location, such as in a server or part of a cloud service, e.g., for remote controlling the E-trailer 1.

[0100] In some examples, the computer system 600 and / or processing circuitry 602 is communicatively coupled with any suitable entities of the E-trailer 1 and / or the towing vehicle unit 2, e.g., any suitable sensors, actuators, and / or communication devices of the E- trailer 1 and / or the towing vehicle unit 2.

[0101] FIG. 2 is a flow chart of an exemplary a computer-implemented method for handling power and / or energy management of the E-trailer 1 according to an example. The E- trailer is attached to the towing vehicle unit 2. The E-trailer 1 and the towing vehicle unit 2 are arranged to travel at least one route 11. The E-trailer 1 comprises the one or more batteries 50, and any one or more out of:- the one or more regenerative electric brakes 52 capable of braking the E-trailer 1 and charging the one or more batteries 50,- the electric propelling unit 51 capable of providing torque to wheels of the E-trailer 1 using power from the one or more batteries 50, and- the one or more auxiliary equipment 54 capable of being operated using power from the one or more batteries 50,- the electrical distribution unit 53 capable of transferring electricity between the one or more batteries 50 and the towing vehicle unit 2.

[0102] The E-trailer 1 is configured with a power and / or energy configuration indicating if, and / or in which manner, any one or more out of the one or more regenerative electric brakes 52, the electrical distribution unit 53, the one or more auxiliary equipment 54, and / or the electric propelling unit 51, are to be used.

[0103] The method comprises the following actions. Dashed boxes in FIG. 2 indicate optional actions.

[0104] The actions may be performed by the computer system 600 and / or the processing circuitry therein.

[0105] Action 201

[0106] The method comprises obtaining an indication of one or more power and / or energy conditions of the one or more batteries 50 to be fulfilled when reaching respective one or more locations 15 of the at least one route 11.

[0107] A power and / or energy condition herein may mean a power and / or energy conditions requirement needed to be met at all times such as a threshold, a status, or any suitable constraint relating to power and / or energy.

[0108] In some examples, obtaining the indication of the one or more power and / or energy conditions comprises obtaining the indication as input from a user interface. In some other examples, obtaining the indication of the one or more power and / or energy conditions comprises determining the one or more power and / or energy conditions to form the indication.

[0109] Determining the one or more power and / or energy conditions may comprise obtaining map information of the at least one route 11 indicative of friction, slopes, and / or surface type of the at least one route 11 and / or the respective locations therein, and determining the one or more power and / or energy conditions based on the obtained map information, e.g., to determine whether and how the E-trailer 1 is needed to assist the towingvehicle unit 2, e.g., for propulsion or where regenerative electric braking is suitable to use by the E-trailer 1.

[0110] In some examples, the one or more power and / or energy conditions when reaching a respective location of the one or more locations 15 comprises a minimum power available to be supplied to the E-trailer 1 using the one or more batteries 50.[OHl] In some examples, the one or more power and / or energy conditions when reaching a respective location 15 of the one or more locations 15 comprises a minimum SoC of the one or more batteries 50.

[0112] In some examples, the one or more power conditions when reaching a respective location 15 of the one or more locations 15 comprises a maximum power available to be supplied to the E-trailer 1 using the one or more batteries 50.

[0113] In some examples, the one or more power conditions when reaching a respective location 15 of the one or more locations 15 comprises a maximum SoC of the one or more batteries 50.

[0114] In some examples, the one or more power and / or energy conditions when reaching a respective location 15 of the one or more locations 15 comprises a minimum or maximum SoC of the one or more batteries 50 and / or a minimum or maximum power of the one or more batteries 50 to be supplied to the E-trailer 1, for the E-trailer 1 to be capable of performing one or more predefined trailer operations at the respective location 15.

[0115] In some examples, the one or more predefined trailer operations comprises any one or more out of: a reversing operation of the E-trailer 1, an operation to transfer electricity between the one or more batteries 50 and one or more second batteries 60 of the towing vehicle unit 2 by using the electrical distribution unit 53, an operation to assist the towing vehicle unit 2 in climbing an uphill slope by using the propelling unit 51 to provide torque to wheels of the E-trailer 1 when travelling in the slope, an operation to brake the E-trailer 1 in a downhill slope using the one or more regenerative electric brakes 52, an operation to operate an auxiliary equipment of the one or more auxiliary equipment 54 attached to the E-trailer 1, e.g., any one or more out of a climate control unit, acrane, a tipper, a container lift, and / or a concrete pump, such as powered by the one or more batteries 50, an operation to electrically charge equipment attached to the E-trailer 1, e.g., as powered by the one or more batteries 50, and an operation to control one or more steered axles of the E-trailer 1, e.g., as powered by the one or more batteries 50.

[0116] In some examples, the one or more power and / or energy conditions is indicative of a threshold and / or interval needed to be met by a SoC of the one or more batteries 50 and / or by an available power of the one or more batteries 50.

[0117] The one or more power and / or energy conditions may have been set as part of a planning tool e.g., as input by a user, e.g., a supervisor of the E-trailer 1, when planning the at least one route 11 or operations of the E-trailer 1. The one or more power and / or energy conditions may also be set as part of a self-learning system or part of an automatic system. If performed by the self-learning system or part of the automatic system, then an indication or alert may be provided to a user of the E-trailer 1, e.g., by a user interface in the towing vehicle unit 2.

[0118] In some examples, the indication is indicative of a first minimum energy needed when reaching a first location of the at least one route 11, and a second minimum energy needed when reaching a second location of the at least one route 11.

[0119] Action 202

[0120] In some examples, the method comprises detecting a triggering event. Detecting the triggering event may comprise detecting any one or more out of: an environmental or weather condition of the at least one route 11 and / or in a respective location of the one or more locations 15, e.g., detecting rain, snow, draught, icy roads, etc. one or more driver inputs or driver actions affecting the power and / or energy conditions of the E-trailer 1, e.g., the driver or vehicle unexpectedly uses up energy and / or power, an update of the at least one route 11, e.g., any of the one or more locations 15 may not be reached due to the update of the at least one route 11, and detecting a traffic condition such as an accident or congestion in the at least one route11.

[0121] In other words, the triggering event may comprise any event which may affect energy and / or power of the E-trailer and / or whether the power and / or energy conditions if operating under a current power and / or energy configuration. Hence, there may be a need to adapt the power and / or energy configuration when detecting any of the events above.

[0122] Action 203

[0123] The method comprises, when travelling towards the one or more locations 15, adapting the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer 1 such that the one or more power and / or energy conditions, respectively, are fulfilled when reaching the respective one or more locations 15. Adapting the power and / or energy configuration is performed recurrently and / or based on a detected triggering event.

[0124] In some examples, adapting the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer 1 is performed in response to detecting the triggering event, e.g., as in action 202.

[0125] In some examples, adapting the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer 1 is reactive, i.e., such that it may adapt to meet the power and / or energy condition of a location closest in distance of a current position of the E-trailer 1. In some examples, adapting the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer 1 is performed by a long-term scheduling horizon, i.e., by planning ahead on how to meet all of the one or more power and / or energy conditions of the respective one or more locations 15.

[0126] In some examples, adapting the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer 1 such that the one or more power and / or energy conditions, respectively, are fulfilled when reaching the respective one or more locations 15 comprises any one or more out of: increasing or decreasing a usage of the one or more regenerative electric brakes 52 to adjust an energy level of the one or more batteries 50, e.g., by triggering a usage of the one or more regenerative electric brakes 52, or by refraining to use the one or more regenerative electric brakes 52, increasing or decreasing a usage of using the propelling unit 51 to provide torque to wheels of the E-trailer 1 to adjust an energy level of the one or more batteries 50, e.g., by triggering a usage of the propelling unit 51, or by refraining to use the propelling unit 51,- transferring power between the one or more batteries 50 and one or more second batteries 60 of the towing vehicle unit 2 by using the electrical distribution unit 53 to adjust an energy level of the one or more batteries 50 e.g., by triggering a transfer ofpower to the one or more batteries 50 from the one or more second batteries 60, or by triggering a transfer of power to the one or more second batteries 60 from the one or more batteries 50.

[0127] Additionally or alternatively to using the triggering event as a trigger for adapting the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer 1, some examples herein adapting the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer 1 may be performed recurrently.

[0128] Recurrently as used herein may mean continuously, iteratively, repeatedly, and / or periodically.

[0129] For example, adapting the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer 1 may occur every predefined time step, such that energy and / or power levels of the one or more batteries 50 can always be adapted such that the one or more power and / or energy conditions, respectively, are fulfilled when reaching the respective one or more locations 15.

[0130] FIG. 3 illustrates an example scenario of the E-trailer 1 and the towing vehicle unit 2 travelling the at least one route 11 towards the respective one or more locations 15.

[0131] In this example scenario, the one or more locations 15 comprises a first location 401 indicative of a start of an uphill slope. The power and / or energy condition for the first location 401 may comprise that the E-trailer shall 1, or shall be able to provide propulsion by the propulsion unit 51, i.e., provide torque to wheels of the E-trailer 1, for a first distance 411 or corresponding duration of climbing the uphill slope.

[0132] In this example scenario, the one or more locations 15 comprises a second location 402 indicative of a start of an downhill slope. The power and / or energy condition for the second location 402 may comprise that the E-trailer 1 shall, or shall be able to provide regenerative braking using the one or more regenerative electric brakes 52, for a second distance 412 or corresponding duration of braking down the downhill slope.

[0133] In this example scenario, the one or more locations 15 comprises a third location 403 indicative of a work site, e.g., where the E-trailer 1 is to be reversed into a position for offloading goods carried by the E-trailer 1. The power and / or energy condition for the third location 403 may comprise that the E-trailer 1 shall, or shall be able to perform at least one trailer operation, such as reversing the E-trailer 1 in the work site.

[0134] In this example scenario, the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer 1 may be adapted such that the one or more batteries 50 have sufficient power and / or energy to assist in climbing the uphill slope for the first distance 411 when reaching the first position401. This may mean that prior to the first location 401, one or more regenerative electric brakes may be used to harvest sufficient energy, and / or the electrical distribution unit may be used to transfer energy from the towing vehicle unit 2 to the one or more batteries 50.

[0135] In this example scenario, the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer 1 may be adapted such that the one or more batteries 50 have a maximum power and / or energy such that the one or more regenerative electric brakes 52 can be used to brake down the downhill slop for the second distance 412 when reaching the first position 402.

[0136] This may mean that prior to the second location 402, the propulsion unit 51 may be used to consume energy of the one or more batteries 50, and / or the electrical distribution unit may be used to transfer energy from the one or more batteries 50 to the towing vehicle unit 2.

[0137] Furthermore, to meet the power and / or energy conditions of the second location402, it may be necessary to adapt the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer 1 such that the E-trailer 1, has already consumed a sufficient amount of energy when reaching the first position 401 and / or after the first distance 411, e.g., as the remaining distance to the second position 402 may be too short to consume a sufficient amount of energy.

[0138] In this example scenario, the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer 1 may be adapted such that the one or more batteries 50 have sufficient power and / or energy to perform the at least one trailer operation at the third location 403, i.e., at the work site, such as reversing the E-trailer 1.

[0139] This may mean that prior to the third location 403, one or more regenerative electric brakes may be used to harvest sufficient energy, and / or the electrical distribution unit may be used to transfer energy from the towing vehicle unit 2 to the one or more batteries 50.

[0140] Furthermore, to meet the power and / or energy conditions of the third location 402, it may be necessary to adapt the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer 1 such that the E-trailer 1, has a sufficient energy and / or power level in the one or more batteries 50 already at the second locations 402 by considering how much energy can be harvested during the downhill slope during the second distance 412.

[0141] Additional examples and scenarios

[0142] As an example scenario, a driver of the towing vehicle unit 2 may be able to input areas, i.e., the one or more locations 15, or routes, i.e., the at least one route 11, where thetowing vehicle unit 2 may require additional power from the E-trailer 1. This input may be the indication as obtained in action 201.

[0143] The input may be added to a deployment strategy, e.g., calculated dynamically or in advance, to make sure that there is enough power when the driver and the E-trailer reaches the specified areas, e.g., as indicate by the one or more locations 15. The deployment strategy may be used as a basis for adapting the energy and / or power configuration, e.g., as in action 203. This ensures that the E-trailer 1 may be used in areas where it has a bigger impact, e.g., by improving efficiency such as additional traction and / or ease of reversing into a loading bay of a work site. This also allows the driver to apply knowledge about the at least one route 11 and / or weather conditions etc. to the deployment strategy and making it more effective and usable for the at least one route.

[0144] As an example scenario, before starting a trip, i.e., before starting to travel the at least one route 11, the driver of the towing vehicle unit 2 may input a destination into a user interface such as a screen, e.g., as part of action 201. The driver may choose to input certain zones or areas, e.g., the one or more locations, of the at least one route 11, that the driver wants to have extra power saved for. In some scenarios, a required battery capacity available and / or SoC may also be requested to have at a certain zone or area. In these scenarios, there may be a certain stretch, i.e., a straight road of a set distance, of the at least one route 11, that is associated with bad road conditions and therefore requires more traction to be able get through. This increase in traction force may be achieved by the propulsion unit 51 and / or the one or more regenerative brakes 52.

[0145] Alternatively, a area may be associated with a need to have enough power to be able to reverse, only using the E-Trailer 1, at a loading bay.

[0146] In some areas, i.e., locations 15, the E-Trailer 1 may be allowed to supply full power for as long as the E-trailer 1 is present in the specified area and power is requested from the towing vehicle unit 2 and / or the driver therein. A request for each respective area, i.e., respective location 15, may be added to information for a deployment plan to use for adapting the power and / or energy configuration, e.g., as part of action 203.

[0147] Functionalities herein may allow a driver to apply their knowledge of the at least one route 11 and its conditions to make the deployment plan suite one or more energy conditions in an improved manner.

[0148] In some examples, the user interface as used by the user, e.g., a driver of the towing vehicle unit 2, may comprises information of possible conditions the user may enter and / or current status of the E-trailer 1 and / or the towing vehicle unit 2, such as energy and / or power levels of the one or more batteries 50 and / or the one or more second batteries 60.

[0149] The user interface may further indicate previously entered and / or currently applied one or more power and / or energy conditions.

[0150] Information of the user interface may be prompted to the user in different ways. For example, it could be predetermined as “low”, “mid” or “high” power buttons for the input of how much power is need at a certain area, e.g., the one or more locations 15. The user interface may further comprise a slider which goes from 0-max power either in percent or in a unit of power, such as kilowatt (kW). It could also be a number or other value that the user uses as input to the user interface, e.g., as in action 201. The number or value may be in kW or on a different scale representing kW.

[0151] A similar input to the user interface may be implemented for battery capacity and / or SoC requirements, e.g., such as “low”, “mid” or “high” buttons for the SoC. A slider for the SoC may also be used as well as a number or value that the user inputs as the request. Same here, either a percentage or a scale that represents it.

[0152] Regarding both the power and SoC requirements, a range may be used instead of a fixed number or a threshold. Combinations may apply. This would make it easier and faster to set the target, i.e., the power and / or energy condition for a location 15, since it may be hard to predict exactly how much power and / or SoC may be needed for a scenario or location. In some examples, it may be easier to plan when using intervals or ranges, i.e., as part of adapting the power and / or energy configuration of action 203, since it may be simpler to aim for a range or interval rather than a fixed number or threshold.

[0153] FIG. 4 is another view of FIG. la and lb, according to an example.

[0154] The computer system 600 comprising the processing circuitry 602 configured to handle power and / or energy management of the E-trailer 1 attached to the towing vehicle unit 2 is provided. The E-trailer 1 and the towing vehicle unit 2 are arranged to travel the at least one route 11. The E-trailer 1 comprises one or more batteries 50 and any one or more out of:The one or more regenerative electric brakes 52 capable of braking the E-trailer 1 and charging the one or more batteries 50,- the electric propelling unit 51 capable of providing torque to wheels of the E-trailer 1 using power from the one or more batteries 50,- the one or more auxiliary equipment 54, capable of being operated by using power from the one or more batteries 50, and- the electrical distribution unit 53 capable of transferring electricity between the one or more batteries 50 and the towing vehicle unit 2.

[0155] The E-trailer 1 is configured with a power and / or energy configuration indicating if, and / or in which manner, any one or more out of the one or more regenerative electric brakes 52, the electrical distribution unit 53, the one or more auxiliary equipment 54, and / or the electric propelling unit 51, are to be used.

[0156] The processing circuitry 602 is configured to obtain an indication of one or more power and / or energy conditions of the one or more batteries 50 to be fulfilled when reaching respective one or more locations 15 of the at least one route 11.

[0157] The processing circuitry 602 is configured to, when travelling towards the one or more locations 15, adapt the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer 1 such that the one or more power and / or energy conditions, respectively, are fulfilled when reaching the respective one or more locations 15. Adapting the power and / or energy configuration is performed recurrently and / or based on a detected triggering event.

[0158] FIG. 5 is a flow chart of an exemplary method according to an example.

[0159] A computer-implemented method for handling power and / or energy management of the E-trailer 1 attached to the towing vehicle unit 2 arranged to travel the at least one route 11 is provided. The E-trailer 1 comprises the one or more batteries 50, and any one or more out of:- the one or more regenerative electric brakes 52 capable of braking the E-trailer 1 and charging the one or more batteries 50,- the electric propelling unit 51 capable of providing torque to wheels of the E-trailer 1 using power from the one or more batteries 50,- the one or more auxiliary equipment 54, capable of being operated by using power from the one or more batteries 50, and- the electrical distribution unit 53 capable of transferring electricity between the one or more batteries 50 and the towing vehicle unit 2 ; and

[0160] The E-trailer 1 is configured with a power and / or energy configuration indicating if, and / or in which manner, any one or more out of the one or more regenerative electric brakes 52, the electrical distribution unit 53, the one or more auxiliary equipment 54, and / or the electric propelling unit 51, are to be used

[0161] The method may be combined with any one or more out of the examples mentioned above. The method comprises below actions 501, 502.

[0162] Action 501

[0163] The method comprises, by the processing circuitry 602 of the computer system 600, obtaining an indication of one or more power and / or energy conditions of the one or more batteries 50 to be fulfilled when reaching respective one or more locations 15 of the at least one route 11.

[0164] Action 501

[0165] The method comprises, by the processing circuitry 602, when travelling towards the one or more locations 15, adapting the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer 1 such that the one or more power and / or energy conditions, respectively, are fulfilled when reaching the respective one or more locations 15. Adapting the power and / or energy configuration is performed recurrently and / or based on a detected triggering event.

[0166] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the computer system 600 for implementing examples disclosed herein. The computer system 600 is adapted to execute instructions from a computer-readable medium to perform these and / or any of the functions or processing described herein. The computer system 600 may be connected (e.g., networked) to other machines in a LAN (Local Area Network), LIN (Local Interconnect Network), automotive network communication protocol (e.g., FlexRay), an intranet, an extranet, or the Internet. While only a single device is illustrated, the computer system 600 may include any collection of devices that individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein. Accordingly, any reference in the disclosure and / or claims to a computer system, computing system, computer device, computing device, control system, control unit, electronic control unit (ECU), processor device, processing circuitry, etc., includes reference to one or more such devices to individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein. For example, control system may include a single control unit or a plurality of control units connected or otherwise communicativelycoupled to each other, such that any performed function may be distributed between the control units as desired. Further, such devices may communicate with each other or other devices by various system architectures, such as directly or via a Controller Area Network (CAN) bus, etc.

[0167] The computer system 600 may comprise at least one computing device or electronic device capable of including firmware, hardware, and / or executing software instructions to implement the functionality described herein. The computer system 600 may include the processing circuitry 602 (e.g., processing circuitry including one or more processor devices or control units), a memory 604, and a system bus 606. The computer system 600 may include at least one computing device having the processing circuitry 602. The system bus 606 provides an interface for system components including, but not limited to, the memory 604 and the processing circuitry 602. The processing circuitry 602 may include any number of hardware components for conducting data or signal processing or for executing computer code stored in memory 604. The processing circuitry 602 may, for example, include a general-purpose processor, an application specific processor, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), a circuit containing processing components, a group of distributed processing components, a group of distributed computers configured for processing, or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. The processing circuitry 602 may further include computer executable code that controls operation of the programmable device.

[0168] The system bus 606 may be any of several types of bus structures that may further interconnect to a memory bus (with or without a memory controller), a peripheral bus, and / or a local bus using any of a variety of bus architectures. The memory 604 may be one or more devices for storing data and / or computer code for completing or facilitating methods described herein. The memory 604 may include database components, object code components, script components, or other types of information structure for supporting the various activities herein. Any distributed or local memory device may be utilized with the systems and methods of this description. The memory 604 may be communicably connected to the processing circuitry 602 (e.g., via a circuit or any other wired, wireless, or network connection) and may include computer code for executing one or more processes describedherein. The memory 604 may include non-volatile memory 608 (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), etc.), and volatile memory 610 (e.g., randomaccess memory (RAM)), or any other medium which can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and which can be accessed by a computer or other machine with processing circuitry 602. A basic input / output system (BIOS) 612 may be stored in the non-volatile memory 608 and can include the basic routines that help to transfer information between elements within the computer system 600.

[0169] The computer system 600 may further include or be coupled to a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium such as the storage device 614, which may comprise, for example, an internal or external hard disk drive (HDD) (e.g., enhanced integrated drive electronics (EIDE) or serial advanced technology attachment (SATA)), HDD (e.g., EIDE or SATA) for storage, flash memory, or the like. The storage device 614 and other drives associated with computer-readable media and computer-usable media may provide nonvolatile storage of data, data structures, computer-executable instructions, and the like.

[0170] Computer-code which is hard or soft coded may be provided in the form of one or more modules. The module(s) can be implemented as software and / or hard-coded in circuitry to implement the functionality described herein in whole or in part. The modules may be stored in the storage device 614 and / or in the volatile memory 610, which may include an operating system 616 and / or one or more program modules 618. All or a portion of the examples disclosed herein may be implemented as a computer program 620 stored on a transitory or non-transitory computer-usable or computer-readable storage medium (e.g., single medium or multiple media), such as the storage device 614, which includes complex programming instructions (e.g., complex computer-readable program code) to cause the processing circuitry 602 to carry out actions described herein. Thus, the computer-readable program code of the computer program 620 can comprise software instructions for implementing the functionality of the examples described herein when executed by the processing circuitry 602. In some examples, the storage device 614 may be a computer program product (e.g., readable storage medium) storing the computer program 620 thereon, where at least a portion of a computer program 620 may be loadable (e.g., into a processor) for implementing the functionality of the examples described herein when executed by theprocessing circuitry 602. The processing circuitry 602 may serve as a controller or control system for the computer system 600 that is to implement the functionality described herein.

[0171] The computer system 600 may include an input device interface 622 configured to receive input and selections to be communicated to the computer system 600 when executing instructions, such as from a keyboard, mouse, touch-sensitive surface, etc. Such input devices may be connected to the processing circuitry 602 through the input device interface 622 coupled to the system bus 606 but can be connected through other interfaces, such as a parallel port, an Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) 1394 serial port, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port, an IR interface, and the like. The computer system 600 may include an output device interface 624 configured to forward output, such as to a display, a video display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a cathode ray tube (CRT)). The computer system 600 may include a communications interface 626 suitable for communicating with a network as appropriate or desired.

[0172] The operational actions described in any of the exemplary aspects herein are described to provide examples and discussion. The actions may be performed by hardware components, may be embodied in machine-executable instructions to cause a processor to perform the actions, or may be performed by a combination of hardware and software. Although a specific order of method actions may be shown or described, the order of the actions may differ. In addition, two or more actions may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence.

[0173] Below follows a number of Examples which may be combined with any of the examples above in any suitable manner.Example 1. A computer system 600 comprising processing circuitry 602 configured to handle power and / or energy management of an electrified trailer, E-trailer, 1 attached to a towing vehicle unit 2 arranged to travel at least one route 11, the E-trailer 1 comprising one or more batteries 50 and any one or more out of:- one or more regenerative electric brakes 52 capable of braking the E-trailer 1 and charging the one or more batteries 50,- an electric propelling unit 51 capable of providing torque to wheels of the E-trailer 1 using power from the one or more batteries 50, and- one or more auxiliary equipment 54 attached to the E-trailer 1 and capable of being operated using power from the one or more batteries 50, and- an electrical distribution unit 53 capable of transferring electricity between the one or more batteries 50 and the towing vehicle unit 2; and wherein the E-trailer 1 is configured with a power and / or energy configuration indicating if, and / or in which manner, any one or more out of the one or more regenerative electric brakes 52, the electrical distribution unit 53, the one or more auxiliary equipment 54, and / or the electric propelling unit 51, are to be used, and wherein the processing circuitry 602 is configured to: obtain an indication of one or more power and / or energy conditions of the one or more batteries 50 to be fulfilled when reaching respective one or more locations 15 of the at least one route 11,- when travelling towards the one or more locations 15, adapt the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer 1 such that the one or more power and / or energy conditions, respectively, are fulfilled when reaching the respective one or more locations 15, and wherein adapting the power and / or energy configuration is performed recurrently and / or based on a detected triggering event.Example 2. The computer system 600 of Example 1, wherein the one or more power and / or energy conditions when reaching a respective location of the one or more locations 15 comprises a minimum power available to be supplied to the E-trailer 1 using the one or more batteries 50.Example 3. The computer system 600 of Example 1 or 2, wherein the one or more power and / or energy conditions when reaching a respective location of the one or more locations 15 comprises a minimum State of Charge, SoC, of the one or more batteries 50.Example 4. The computer system 600 of any of Examples 1-3, wherein the one or more power conditions when reaching a respective location of the one or more locations 15 comprises a maximum power available to be supplied to the E-trailer 1 using the one or more batteries 50.Example 5. The computer system 600 of any of Examples 1-4, wherein the one or more power conditions when reaching a respective location of the one or more locations 15 comprises a maximum State of Charge, SoC, of the one or more batteries 50.Example 6. The computer system 600 of any one of Examples 1-5, wherein the one or more power and / or energy conditions when reaching a respective location of the one or more locations 15 comprises a minimum or maximum State of Charge, SoC, of the one or more batteries 50 and / or a minimum or maximum power of the one or more batteries 50 to be supplied to the E-trailer 1, for the E-trailer 1 to be capable of performing one or more predefined trailer operations at the respective location 15.Example 7. The computer system 600 of Example 6, wherein the one or more predefined trailer operations comprises any one or more out of: a reversing operation of the E-trailer 1, an operation to transfer electricity between the one or more batteries 50 and one or more second batteries 60 of the towing vehicle unit 2 by using the electrical distribution unit 53, an operation to assist the towing vehicle unit 2 in climbing an uphill slope by using the propelling unit 51 to provide torque to wheels of the E-trailer 1 when travelling in the slope, an operation to brake the E-trailer 1 in a downhill slope using the one or more regenerative electric brakes 52, an operation to operate an auxiliary equipment of the one or more auxiliary equipment 54 attached to the E-trailer 1, an operation to electrically charge equipment attached to the E-trailer 1, and an operation to control one or more steered axles of the E-trailer 1.Example 8. The computer system 600 of any one of Examples 1-7, wherein the one or more power and / or energy conditions is indicative of a threshold and / or interval needed to be met by a State of Charge, SoC, of the one or more batteries 50 and / or by an available power of the one or more batteries 50.Example 9. The computer system 600 of any one of Examples 1-8, wherein the processing circuitry 602 is configured to obtain the indication of the one or more power and / or energy conditions as input from a user interface.Example 10. The computer system 600 of Example 1-9, wherein the indication is indicative of a first minimum energy needed when reaching a first location of the at least one route 11, and a second minimum energy needed when reaching a second location of the at least one route 11.Example 11. The computer system 600 of any one of Examples 1-10, wherein the processing circuitry 602 is configured to:- detect a triggering event, and- adapt the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer 1 in response to detecting the triggering event.Example 12. The computer system 600 of any one of Examples 1-11, wherein the processing circuitry 602 is configured to detect the triggering event by detecting any one or more out of: an environmental or weather condition of the at least one route 11 and / or in a respective location of the one or more locations 15, one or more driver inputs or driver actions affecting the power and / or energy conditions of the E-trailer 1, an update of the at least one route 11, and detecting a traffic condition such as an accident or congestion in the at least one route 11.Example 13. The computer system 600 of any one of Examples 1-12, wherein the processing circuitry 602 is configured to adapt the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer 1 such that the one or more power and / or energy conditions, respectively, are fulfilled when reaching the respective one or more locations 15 by any one or more out of:- increasing or decreasing a usage of the one or more regenerative electric brakes 52 to adjust an energy level of the one or more batteries 50,- increasing or decreasing a usage of using the propelling unit 51 to provide torque to wheels of the E-trailer 1 to adjust an energy level of the one or more batteries 50,- transferring power between the one or more batteries 50 and one or more second batteries 60 of the towing vehicle unit 2 by using the electrical distribution unit 53 to adjust an energy level of the one or more batteries 50.Example 14. An electrified trailer, E-trailer 1, arranged to be attached to a towing vehicle unit 2, the E-trailer 1 comprising one or more batteries 50 and the computer system 600 of any of Examples 1-13, the E-trailer 1 further comprising any one or more out of:- One or more regenerative electric brakes capable of braking the E-trailer 1 and charging the one or more batteries 50,- an electric propelling unit 51 capable of providing torque to wheels of the E-trailer 1 using power from the one or more batteries 50,- one or more auxiliary equipment 54 attached to the E-trailer 1 and capable of being operated using power from the one or more batteries 50, and- an electrical distribution unit 53 capable of transferring electricity between the one or more batteries 50 and the towing vehicle unit 2; and wherein the E-trailer 1 is configured with a power and / or energy configuration indicating if and / or in which manner any one or more out of the one or more regenerative electric brakes 52, the electrical distribution unit 53, the one or more auxiliary equipment 54, and / or the electric propelling unit 51, are to be used, and / or are allowed to be used.Example 15. A computer-implemented method for handling power and / or energy management of an electrified trailer, E-trailer, 1 attached to a towing vehicle unit 2 arranged to travel at least one route 11, the E-trailer 1 comprising one or more batteries 50, and any one or more out of:- one or more regenerative electric brakes 52 capable of braking the E-trailer 1 and charging the one or more batteries 50,- an electric propelling unit 51 capable of providing torque to wheels of the E-trailer 1 using power from the one or more batteries 50,- one or more auxiliary equipment 54 attached to the E-trailer 1 and capable of being operated using power from the one or more batteries 50, and- an electrical distribution unit 53 capable of transferring electricity between the one or more batteries 50 and the towing vehicle unit 2; and wherein the E-trailer 1 is configured with a power and / or energy configuration indicating if, and / or in which manner, any one or more out of the one or more regenerative electric brakes 52, the electrical distribution unit 53, the one or more auxiliary equipment 54, and / or the electric propelling unit 51, are to be used, the method comprising: by processing circuitry 602 of a computer system 600, obtaining 201, 501 an indication of one or more power and / or energy conditions of the one or more batteries 50 to be fulfilled when reaching respective one or more locations 15 of the at least one route 11, and by the processing circuitry 602, when travelling towards the one or more locations 15, adapting 203, 502 the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer 1 such that the one or more power and / or energy conditions, respectively, are fulfilled when reaching the respective one or more locations 15, and wherein adapting the power and / or energy configuration is performed recurrently and / or based on a detected triggering event.Example 16. The method of Example 15, wherein obtaining 201 the indication of the one or more power and / or energy conditions comprises obtaining the indication as input from a user interface.Example 17. The method of Example 15 or 16, further comprising:- by the processing circuitry 602, detecting 202 a triggering event, and- wherein adapting 203 the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer 1 is performed in response to detecting 202 the triggering event.Example 18. The method of any one of Examples 15-17, wherein adapting 203 the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer 1 such that the one or more power and / orenergy conditions, respectively, are fulfilled when reaching the respective one or more locations 15 comprises any one or more out of:- by the processing circuitry 602, increasing or decreasing a usage of the one or more regenerative electric brakes 52 to adjust an energy level of the one or more batteries 50,- by the processing circuitry 602, increasing or decreasing a usage of using the propelling unit 51 to provide torque to wheels of the E-trailer 1 to adjust an energy level of the one or more batteries 50,- by the processing circuitry 602, transferring power between the one or more batteries 50 and one or more second batteries 60 of the towing vehicle unit 2 by using the electrical distribution unit 53 to adjust an energy level of the one or more batteries 50.Example 19. A computer program product comprising program code for performing, when executed by the processing circuitry 602, the method of any of Examples 15-18.Example 20. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions, which when executed by the processing circuitry 602, cause the processing circuitry 602 to perform the method of any of Examples 15-18.

[0174] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further understood that the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," and / or "including" when used herein specify the presence of stated features, integers, actions, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, actions, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0175] It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a firstelement could be termed a second element, and, similarly, a second element could be termed a first element without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0176] Relative terms such as "below" or "above" or "upper" or "lower" or "horizontal" or "vertical" may be used herein to describe a relationship of one element to another element as illustrated in the Figures. It will be understood that these terms and those discussed above are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in addition to the orientation depicted in the Figures. It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the other element, or intervening elements may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another element, there are no intervening elements present.

[0177] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms used herein should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0178] It is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the aspects described above and illustrated in the drawings; rather, the skilled person will recognize that many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the present disclosure and appended claims. In the drawings and specification, there have been disclosed aspects for purposes of illustration only and not for purposes of limitation, the scope of the disclosure being set forth in the following claims.

Claims

ClaimsWhat is claimed is:

1. A computer system (600) comprising processing circuitry (602) configured to handle power and / or energy management of an electrified trailer, E-trailer, (1) attached to a towing vehicle unit (2) arranged to travel at least one route (11), the E-trailer (1) comprising one or more batteries (50) and any one or more out of- one or more regenerative electric brakes (52) capable of braking the E-trailer (1) and charging the one or more batteries (50),- an electric propelling unit (51) capable of providing torque to wheels of the E- trailer (1) using power from the one or more batteries (50),- one or more auxiliary equipment (54) attached to the E-trailer 1 and capable of being operated using power from the one or more batteries (50), and- an electrical distribution unit (53) capable of transferring electricity between the one or more batteries (50) and the towing vehicle unit (2); and wherein the E-trailer (1) is configured with a power and / or energy configuration indicating if, and / or in which manner, any one or more out of the one or more regenerative electric brakes (52), the electrical distribution unit (53), the one or more auxiliary equipment (54), and / or the electric propelling unit (51), are to be used, and wherein the processing circuitry (602) is configured to: obtain an indication of one or more power and / or energy conditions of the one or more batteries (50) to be fulfilled when reaching respective one or more locations (15) of the at least one route (11),- when travelling towards the one or more locations (15), adapt the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer (1) such that the one or more power and / or energy conditions, respectively, are fulfilled when reaching the respective one or more locations (15), and wherein adapting the power and / or energy configuration is performed recurrently and / or based on a detected triggering event.

2. The computer system (600) of claim 1, wherein the one or more power and / or energy conditions when reaching a respective location of the one or more locations (15) comprises a minimum power available to be supplied to the E-trailer (1) using the one or more batteries (50).

3. The computer system (600) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the one or more power and / or energy conditions when reaching a respective location (15) of the one or more locations (15) comprises a minimum State of Charge, SoC, of the one or more batteries (50).

4. The computer system (600) of any of claims 1-3, wherein the one or more power conditions when reaching a respective location of the one or more locations (15) comprises a maximum power available to be supplied to the E-trailer (1) using the one or more batteries (50).

5. The computer system (600) of any of claims 1-4, wherein the one or more power conditions when reaching a respective location of the one or more locations (15)comprises a maximum State of Charge, SoC, of the one or more batteries (50).

6. The computer system (600) of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the one or more power and / or energy conditions when reaching a respective location of the one or more locations (15) comprises a minimum or maximum State of Charge, SoC, of the one or more batteries (50) and / or a minimum or maximum power of the one or more batteries (50) to be supplied to the E-trailer (1), for the E-trailer (1) to be capable of performing one or more predefined trailer operations at the respective location (15).

7. The computer system (600) of claim 6, wherein the one or more predefined trailer operations comprises any one or more out of: a reversing operation of the E-trailer (1), an operation to transfer electricity between the one or more batteries (50) and one or more second batteries (60) of the towing vehicle unit (2) by using the electrical distribution unit (53), an operation to assist the towing vehicle unit (2) in climbing an uphill slope by using the propelling unit (51) to provide torque to wheels of the E-trailer (1) when travelling in the slope, andan operation to brake the E-trailer (1) in a downhill slope using the one or more regenerative electric brakes (52), an operation to operate an auxiliary equipment of the one or more auxiliary equipment (54) attached to the E-trailer (1), an operation to electrically charge equipment attached to the E-trailer (1), and an operation to control one or more steered axles of the E-trailer (1).

8. The computer system (600) of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the one or more power and / or energy conditions is indicative of a threshold and / or interval needed to be met by a State of Charge, SoC, of the one or more batteries (50) and / or by an available power of the one or more batteries (50).

9. The computer system (600) of any one of claims 1-8, wherein the processing circuitry (602) is configured to obtain the indication of the one or more power and / or energy conditions as input from a user interface.

10. The computer system (600) of claim 1-9, wherein the indication is indicative of a first minimum energy needed when reaching a first location of the at least one route (11), and a second minimum energy needed when reaching a second location of the at least one route (11).

11. The computer system (600) of any one of claims 1-10, wherein the processing circuitry (602) is configured to:- detect a triggering event, and- adapt the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer (1) in response to detecting the triggering event.

12. The computer system (600) of any one of claims 1-11, wherein the processing circuitry (602) is configured to detect the triggering event by detecting any one or more out of: an environmental or weather condition of the at least one route (11) and / or in a respective location of the one or more locations (15),one or more driver inputs or driver actions affecting the power and / or energy conditions of the E-trailer (1), an update of the at least one route (11), and detecting a traffic condition such as an accident or congestion in the at least one route (11).

13. The computer system (600) of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the processing circuitry (602) is configured to adapt the power and / or energy configuration of the E- trailer (1) such that the one or more power and / or energy conditions, respectively, are fulfilled when reaching the respective one or more locations (15) by any one or more out of:- increasing or decreasing a usage of the one or more regenerative electric brakes(52) to adjust an energy level of the one or more batteries (50),- increasing or decreasing a usage of using the propelling unit (51) to provide torque to wheels of the E-trailer (1) to adjust an energy level of the one or more batteries (50),- transferring power between the one or more batteries (50) and one or more second batteries (60) of the towing vehicle unit (2) by using the electrical distribution unit(53) to adjust an energy level of the one or more batteries (50).

14. An electrified trailer, E-trailer (1), arranged to be attached to a towing vehicle unit (2), the E-trailer (1) comprising one or more batteries (50) and the computer system (600) of any of claims 1-13, the E-trailer (1) further comprising any one or more out of:- one or more regenerative electric brakes capable of braking the E-trailer (1) and charging the one or more batteries (50),- an electric propelling unit (51) capable of providing torque to wheels of the E- trailer (1) using power from the one or more batteries (50),- one or more auxiliary equipment (54) attached to the E-trailer 1 and capable of being operated using power from the one or more batteries (50), and- an electrical distribution unit (53) capable of transferring electricity between the one or more batteries (50) and the towing vehicle unit (2); andwherein the E-trailer (1) is configured with a power and / or energy configuration indicating if and / or in which manner any one or more out of the one or more regenerative electric brakes (52), the electrical distribution unit (53), the one or more auxiliary equipment (54) and / or the electric propelling unit (51), are to be used, and / or are allowed to be used.

15. A computer-implemented method for handling power and / or energy management of an electrified trailer, E-trailer, (1) attached to a towing vehicle unit (2) arranged to travel at least one route (11), the E-trailer (1) comprising one or more batteries (50), and any one or more out of- one or more regenerative electric brakes (52) capable of braking the E-trailer (1) and charging the one or more batteries (50),- an electric propelling unit (51) capable of providing torque to wheels of the E- trailer (1) using power from the one or more batteries (50),- one or more auxiliary equipment (54) attached to the E-trailer 1 and capable of being operated using power from the one or more batteries (50), and- an electrical distribution unit (53) capable of transferring electricity between the one or more batteries (50) and the towing vehicle unit (2); and wherein the E-trailer (1) is configured with a power and / or energy configuration indicating if, and / or in which manner, any one or more out of the one or more regenerative electric brakes (52), the electrical distribution unit (53), the one or more auxiliary equipment (54), and / or the electric propelling unit (51), are to be used, the method comprising: by processing circuitry (602) of a computer system (600), obtaining (201, 501) an indication of one or more power and / or energy conditions of the one or more batteries (50) to be fulfilled when reaching respective one or more locations (15) of the at least one route (11), and by the processing circuitry (602), when travelling towards the one or more locations (15), adapting (203, 502) the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer (1) such that the one or more power and / or energy conditions, respectively, are fulfilled when reaching the respective one or more locations (15), and wherein adapting the power and / or energy configuration is performed recurrently and / or based on a detected triggering event.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein obtaining (201) the indication of the one or more power and / or energy conditions comprises obtaining the indication as input from a user interface.

17. The method of claim 15 or 16, further comprising:- by the processing circuitry (602), detecting (202) a triggering event, and- wherein adapting (203) the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer (1) is performed in response to detecting (202) the triggering event.

18. The method of any one of claims 15-17, wherein adapting (203) the power and / or energy configuration of the E-trailer (1) such that the one or more power and / or energy conditions, respectively, are fulfilled when reaching the respective one or more locations (15) comprises any one or more out of:- by the processing circuitry (602), increasing or decreasing a usage of the one or more regenerative electric brakes (52) to adjust an energy level of the one or more batteries (50),- by the processing circuitry (602), increasing or decreasing a usage of using the propelling unit (51) to provide torque to wheels of the E-trailer (1) to adjust an energy level of the one or more batteries (50),- by the processing circuitry (602), transferring power between the one or more batteries (50) and one or more second batteries (60) of the towing vehicle unit (2) by using the electrical distribution unit (53) to adjust an energy level of the one or more batteries (50).

19. A computer program product comprising program code for performing, when executed by the processing circuitry (602), the method of any of claims 15-18.

20. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions, which when executed by the processing circuitry (602), cause the processing circuitry (602) to perform the method of any of claims 15-18.

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