Operative modes of a portable charging and powering device

Abstract

The present disclosure describes a portable charging and powering device The device comprises an energy storage system (ESS), a charging system coupled to the ESS, and a control circuit coupled to the charging system. The charging system is operable in a plurality of modes of operation, including a Direct Current (DC)-ESS mode, an Alternating Current (AC)-ESS mode, an ESS-load mode, and an ESS bypass mode. The control circuit is configured to select a mode of operation for the charging system based on a charging source and a charging destination and operate the charging system in the selected mode of operation to transfer power from the charging source to the charging destination.

Description

OPERATIVE MODES OF A PORTABLE CHARGING AND POWERING DEVICEFIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0001] Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to charging and powering controls. More particularly, various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a portable charging and powering device for charging and powering Electric Vehicles (EVs) using different operative modes.BACKGROUND

[0002] A global shift towards electric mobility presents a promising avenue for reducing carbon emissions within a transportation sector. At the forefront of this transition is an electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), a crucial component of an electric charging infrastructure that is essential for powering electric vehicles (EVs). By tapping into local electricity sources, the EVSEs which are equipped with control systems and wired connections, ensure safe and efficient charging of the EVs. A contemporary EV charging infrastructure includes fixed charging stations, integrated into an electrical grid, to offer alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) charging options. Such stationary stations are typically situated in residential and public spaces. Stationary nature of these stations necessitates that the EVs be driven to the charging stations, inducing range anxiety and additional driving time for the user. This charging feature of the EVs results in limited access to charging facilities anytime, anywhere, especially during emergencies or urgent situations.

[0003] In light of the foregoing, there exists a need for a technical and reliable solution that overcomes the abovementioned problems.

[0004] Limitations and disadvantages of conventional and traditional approaches will become apparent to one of skill in the art, through the comparison of described systems with some aspects of the present disclosure, as set forth in the remainder of the present disclosure and with reference to the drawings.SUMMARY

[0005] A portable charging and powering device for charging and powering machines is provided and substantially as shown in, and described in connection with, at least one of the figures.

[0006] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a portable charging and powering device is provided. The device includes an energy storage system (ESS), a charging system coupled to the ESS. The charging system is operable in a plurality of modes of operation, including a DC- ESS mode, an AC -ESS mode, an ESS-load mode, and an ESS bypass mode. The device further includes a control circuit coupled to the charging system. The control circuit is configured to select, from the plurality of modes of operation, a mode of operation for the charging system based on a charging source and a charging destination. In addition, the control circuit is configured to operate the charging system in the selected mode of operation to transfer power from the charging source to the charging destination.

[0007] In some embodiments, the portable charging and powering device comprises a plurality of switches, a bi-directional converter coupled to the plurality of switches, and an inverter / rectifier circuit couplable to the bi-directional converter using the plurality of switches.

[0008] In some embodiments, in a case the charging source is a DC power source and the charging destination is the ESS, the control circuit is configured to select the DC-ESS mode as the mode of operation; and operate the charging system in the DC-ESS mode. In the DC-ESS mode, the DC power source is coupled to the ESS by way of the bi-directional converter, and the inverter / rectifier circuit is isolated from the bi-directional converter using the plurality of switches.

[0009] In some embodiments, in the DC-ESS mode, the charging system is configured to transfer DC power from the DC power source to the ESS by way of the bi-directional converter.

[0010] In some embodiments, in a case the charging source is an AC power source and the charging destination is the ESS, the control circuit is configured to select the AC -ESS mode as the mode of operation, and operate the charging system in the AC-ESS mode. In the AC -ESS mode, the inverter / rectifier circuit is coupled to the bi-directional converter using the plurality of switches, and the AC power source is coupled to the ESS by way of the bi-directional converter and the inverter / rectifier circuit.

[0011] In some embodiments, in the AC-ESS mode, the charging system is configured to receive AC power from the AC power source. The charging system then converts the AC power to DC power by way of the inverter / rectifier circuit and delivers the DC power to the ESS by way of the bi-directional converter.

[0012] In some embodiments, in a case when the charging source is the ESS and the charging destination is an external load, the control circuit is configured to select the ESS-load mode as the mode of operation, and operate the charging system in the ESS-load mode.

[0013] In some embodiments, in the ESS-load mode when the external load is an external DC load, the ESS is coupled to the external DC load by way of the bi-directional converter, andthe inverter / rectifier circuit is isolated from the bi-directional converter using the plurality of switches.

[0014] In some embodiments, in the ESS-load mode, the charging system is configured to transfer power from the ESS to the external load by way of the bi-directional converter.

[0015] In some embodiments, in the ESS-load mode when the external load is an external AC load, the inverter / rectifier circuit is coupled to the bi-directional converter using the plurality of switches, and the external AC load is coupled to the ESS by way of the bi-directional converter and the inverter / rectifier circuit.

[0016] In some embodiments, in the ESS-load mode, the charging system is configured to receive DC power from the ESS by way of the bi-directional converter. The charging system is further configured to convert the received DC power from the ESS to AC power by way of the inverter / rectifier circuit, and deliver the AC power to the external AC load.

[0017] In some embodiments, in a case the charging source is an external power source and the charging destination is an external load, the control circuit is configured to select the ESS bypass mode as the mode of operation. The control circuit is further configured to operate the charging system in the ESS bypass mode. In the ESS bypass mode, the ESS is isolated from the bi-directional converter.

[0018] In some embodiments, in the ESS bypass mode, the charging system is configured to receive power from the external power source and deliver the received power to the external load. The external load is one of an AC load or a DC load.

[0019] In some embodiments, in the ESS bypass mode when the external load is the DC load, the inverter / rectifier circuit is isolated from the bi-directional converter using the plurality of switches, and the received power is delivered to the external load by way of the bi-directional converter.

[0020] In some embodiments, in the ESS bypass mode when the external load is the AC load, the inverter / rectifier circuit is coupled to the bi-directional converter using the plurality of switches. Further, the received power is delivered to the external load by way of the bidirectional converter and the inverter / rectifier circuit.

[0021] In some embodiments, the inverter / rectifier circuit is transformer-less.

[0022] In some embodiments, the ESS includes a docking mechanism, and a plurality of modules are coupled to the docking mechanism. One or more modules of the plurality of modules are removably coupled to the docking mechanism.

[0023] In some embodiments, the portable charging and powering device includes a housing having dimensions and a contour adapted for integration into a trunk of an electric vehicle (EV).

[0024] These and other features and advantages of the present disclosure may be appreciated from a review of the following detailed description of the present disclosure, along with the accompanying figures in which like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] The following detailed description of the embodiments of the present disclosure will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. The present disclosure is illustrated by way of example, and not limited by the accompanying figures, in which like references indicate similar elements.

[0026] FIG. 1 is a diagram that illustrates a system environment for charging and powering machines, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram that illustrates a portable charging and powering device of the system environment of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] FIG. 3 is a schematic circuit diagram that illustrates a charging system of the portable charging and powering device of FIG. 2, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] FIG. 4A is a schematic circuit diagram that illustrates the charging system operating in a first mode of operation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] FIG. 4B is a schematic circuit diagram that illustrates the charging system operating in a second mode of operation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 4C is a schematic circuit diagram that illustrates the charging system operating in a third mode of operation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] FIG. 4D is a schematic circuit diagram that illustrates the charging system operating in an alternative way in the third mode of operation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] FIG. 4E is a schematic circuit diagram that illustrates the charging system operating in a fourth mode of operation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 5 is a schematic circuit diagram that illustrates a cascaded representation of multiphase bidirectional boost converters, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] FIG. 6 is a diagram that illustrates the portable charging and powering device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] FIG. 7 is a block diagram that illustrates a system architecture of a computer system of the system environment of FIG. 1, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 8 is a block diagram that represents high-level components of the portable charging and powering device, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Further areas of applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description of exemplary embodiments is intended for illustration purposes only and is, therefore, not intended to necessarily limit the scope of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] The detailed description of the appended drawings is intended as a description of the embodiments of the present disclosure and is not intended to represent the only form in which the present disclosure may be practiced. It is to be understood that the same or equivalent functions may be accomplished by different embodiments that are intended to be encompassed within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0040] For simplicity and illustrative purposes, the present disclosure is described by referring mainly to examples thereof. The examples of the present disclosure described herein may be used together in different combinations. In the following description, details are set forth to provide an understanding of the present disclosure. It will be readily apparent, however, that the present disclosure may be practiced without limitation to all these details. Also, throughout the present disclosure, the terms “a” and “an” are intended to denote at least one of a particular element. As used herein, the term “includes” means includes but not limited to, the term “including” means including but not limited to. The term “based on” means based at least in part on.Overview:

[0041] In the landscape of a charging infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs), fixed stations have traditionally offered on-grid charging with both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) options. Stationary nature of the fixed stations is a major limitation which leads to users being unable to access charging facilities for the EVs anytime, anywhere, especially during emergencies or urgent situations. Consequently, to address these challenges and facilitate a seamless charging experience for EV owners, portable charging stations providing off-grid services are introduced. The portable charging stations cater to on-demand chargingneeds. One example of the portable charging station is a robot-guided mobile charging station which the user may use for charging the EV. However, such mobile charging stations are tethered to a designated area, and thus, do not provide a range-limit-free solution. Additionally, the portable charging stations are cumbersome and bulky, and hence, are inconvenient in providing on-demand charging to address the evolving needs of EV users.

[0042] The present disclosure addresses the above-mentioned issues by providing a portable charging and powering device (also referred to herein as a portable charging device, herewith) for charging as well as powering machines (e.g., battery of the EV). The portable charging device of the present disclosure may be accommodated in a trunk of the EV and may be carried along to charge the EV during emergencies. The portable charging device may include an input interface to receive power from a charging source, a charging system, an energy storage system (ESS), an output interface to transfer power to a charging destination, and a control circuit. The portable charging device may be configured to receive, via the input interface, the power from various charging sources such as electrical grids, solar cells, or the like, and transfer the received power to the charging destination such as the ESS, an external AC load, an external DC load, and the like. Further, the charging system may utilize energy stored in the ESS to charge the machines (e.g., the battery of the EV). The portable charging device may provide, for example, an AC-to-AC charging, a DC-to-DC charging, an AC-to-DC charging, and a DC-to- AC charging. In other words, the charging system may draw power from the charging source such as an AC power source, a DC power source, or a combination thereof. Further, the energy stored in the ESS may be delivered to the charging destination such as an AC load, a DC load, or a combination thereof. To that end, in an embodiment, the charging system may operate in a selected mode of operation of a plurality of modes of operation. Based on the charging source and the charging destination, the control circuit is configured to select a mode of operation from the plurality of modes of operation.

[0043] The ESS may include various types of batteries, such as chemical batteries, fuel cells, electrical media, mechanical media, or a combination thereof. Use of different ESS media may cater to different charging needs of the portable charging device. For example, the user requiring rapid charging for short-distance travel may choose supercapacitor modules, while another user preferring slower charging for longer-range trips may opt for lithium-chemistry batteries. Further, the ESS may utilize a combination of the varied medias for higher efficiency.

[0044] The ESS may be arranged as a single unit or be divided into multiple modules, rendering the charging system modular and providing an expandible energy storage capacity. Thus, the charging system facilitates an option of expanding an energy storage capacity of the ESS byadding a plurality of modules. Additionally, each of a less charged module may be easily undocked or disconnected from a docking mechanism of the charging system and replaced with a fully charged or replenished module.

[0045] The portable charging device of the present disclosure is implemented to be transformerless leading to an enhanced compact design. The compact design and portability of the portable charging device ensures that the user can effortlessly carry the device in the trunk of the EV, wheel it into his home or office for charging from a power outlet, and then wheel it back to the EV to be used for on-the-go charging. The portable charging device thus serves as an independent power bank to address emergencies for EV users and are thus not limited by any range or location. Additionally, the power system may charge the EV while in motion by using a charging port configured in the trunk of the EV. The user, thus, may be able to add an extra range to the EV without stopping for charging, thereby enhancing practical usability of the EV. Features such as portability, modularity, versatility, convenience, and efficiency of the power system is a groundbreaking solution for charging the EVs in diverse scenarios.Figure description:

[0046] FIG. l is a diagram that illustrates a system environment 100 for charging and powering machines, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the system environment 100 may include a machine 102 and a user 104 that operates the machine 102. Examples of the machine 102 may include an electric vehicle (EV), an industrial machine, a household power backup, a mining machine, a construction machine, hospital equipment, an agricultural machine, a commercial electronic device, or the like. For the sake of ongoing discussion, the machine 102 is assumed to be the EV (and is hereinafter referred to as the “EV 102”). Examples of the EV 102 may include a battery electric vehicle (BEV) (also known as an all-electric vehicle (AEV)), a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV), or the like.

[0047] In the present disclosure, the charging and powering of the EV 102 are described. However, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to it. In other embodiments, different machines may be charged and powered in a manner similar to that of the EV 102, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0048] The EV 102 may include a battery 106. The battery 106 may be configured to provide charge to an electric motor (not shown) which drives the wheels (not labeled) and propels the EV 102 forward. Further, the battery 106 may be configured to power auxiliary systems (such as lights, air conditioning, heating, entertainment systems, onboard computers, or the like) within the EV 102. Additionally, the battery 106 may be configured to provide charge toexternal devices or systems through vehicle-to-grid (V2G) or vehicle-to-home (V2H) technology. Examples of the battery 106 may include Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, Nickel - metal hydride (NiMH) batteries, solid-state batteries, Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePCU) batteries, Sodium -ion batteries, or the like. The battery 106 can store limited charge, and hence, is required to be charged at regular intervals.

[0049] Traditionally, charging stations may include electrical grids, electric chargers, power supply equipment, communication systems, and user interface components for charging the EVs. These charging stations are generally located in residential areas, workplaces, retail centers, restaurants, public parking facilities, highways, transportation hubs, and recreational areas, and are utilized to provide charging support to the EVs. Stationary charging stations limit both convenience and flexibility of charging the EV for drivers who require on-the-go charging options. Consequently, to facilitate a seamless charging experience for EV owners, portable charging stations are utilized. However, bulkiness of such portable charging stations may hinder their effective usage. To solve the aforementioned problems, a portable charging device 108 that is portable and modular, and that can be utilized for charging and powering the EVs (such as the EV 102) is described in the present disclosure.

[0050] The portable charging device 108 may be configured to store energy and charge the EV 102 (e.g., the battery 106) by utilizing the stored energy. In some embodiments, the portable charging device 108 may be configured to charge the battery 106 while the EV 102 is in motion (e.g., the battery 106 can be charged and discharged simultaneously). In some other embodiments, the portable charging device 108 may be configured to drive the electric motor of the EV 102 and directly power the EV 102, thereby bypassing use of the battery 106.

[0051] Although not shown, the system environment 100 may further include a portable electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) kit that may be coupled between the battery 106 and the portable charging device 108, and configured to safely deliver power from the portable charging device 108 to the battery 106.

[0052] The portable charging device 108 provides convenient and on-the-go charging solutions for the EV 102. The portable charging device 108 further provides a compact design, multiple charging connectors, and built-in power management features for flexibility and ease of use. Being portable and compact, the portable charging device 108 can easily fit inside a trunk of any standard EV (e.g., the EV 102), and hence, can charge the battery 106 during any kind of emergency. As such, the portable charging device 108 need not be connected to any power source while charging the EV 102. This is greatly useful when a power source is unavailable and the EV 102 needs immediate charging.

[0053] The system environment 100 may further include various elements that may enable the portable charging device 108 to charge the battery 106. For example, the system environment 100 may further include one or more power sources, such as an alternating current (AC) power source 110 and a direct current (DC) power source 112, for the portable charging device 108. In other words, the portable charging device 108 may be configured to store energy by drawing power from the AC power source 110 or the DC power source 112. Examples of the AC power source 110 may include an electrical grid, wind turbines, hydro turbines, thermal -based turbines, or the like. Examples of the DC power source 112 may include solar cells, fuel cells, or the like. For the sake of ongoing discussion, it is assumed that the AC power source 110 corresponds to an electrical grid (hereinafter referred to as the “grid 110”) and the DC power source 112 corresponds to a solar cell (hereinafter referred to as the “solar cell 112”). In an embodiment, the grid 110 may include any residential, commercial, or public interconnected network of power stations. The grid 110 may also include electrical substations that are configured to step up or down voltage to carry the power over long distances, thereby enabling electric power distribution to individual customers. The grid 110 may vary in size. Examples of the grid 110 may include smart grids, microgrids, wide area synchronous grids, super grids, or the like. In an embodiment, the grid 110 may provide 110V AC draining 15-20 amperes.

[0054] The system environment 100 may further include grid sensors 114, circuit sensors 116, a server 118, a user device 120 associated with the user 104, and a network 122. The EV 102, the portable charging device 108, the grid sensors 114, the circuit sensors 116, the server 118, and the user device 120 are coupled to each other by way of the network 122.

[0055] The grid sensors 114 may be operatively coupled to the grid 110. The grid sensors 114 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code, executable by the circuitry, that may be configured to perform one or more operations. For example, the grid sensors 114 may be configured to capture (e.g., sense) a power level in the grid 110.

[0056] The circuit sensors 116 may be operatively coupled to the portable charging device 108. The circuit sensors 116 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code, executable by the circuitry, that may be configured to perform one or more operations. For example, the circuit sensors 116 may be configured to sense a set of parameters pertaining to input / output currents of the portable charging device 108, input / output voltages of the portable charging device 108, a state of charge of a battery bank configured in the portable charging device 108, power parameters essential to charging and discharging of the battery bank, energy storage parameters, or the like.

[0057] The server 118 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code, executable by the circuitry, that may be configured to perform one or more operations associated with monitoring and management of the system environment 100. The server 118 may include a software framework, that may be configured to create an application server implementation and perform various operations associated with collecting data from the grid sensors 114 and the circuit sensors 116. Based on sensor data collected from the grid sensors 114, the server 118 may be configured to track the parameters associated with the grid 110. Similarly, based on the sensor data collected from the circuit sensors 116, the server 118 may be configured to track the parameters associated with the power system 108. Examples of the parameters associated with the power system 108 may include the input / output currents and voltages of the power system 108, health, the state of charge, and an energy level of the battery bank, or the like. Various other operations of the server 118 may include monitoring real-time data and historical trends, notifying abnormal conditions in the system environment 100, integrating with external systems, and providing scalability measures to ensure seamless operation, regulatory adherence, and documentation. Such monitoring and management of the system environment 100 ensure efficient and effective charging and powering of the EV 102.

[0058] The server 118 may be realized through various web-based technologies, such as, but not limited to, a Java web framework, a .NET framework, a professional hypertext preprocessor (PHP) framework, a Python framework, or any other web application framework. The server 118 may also be realized as a machine-learning model that implements any suitable machinelearning techniques, statistical techniques, or probabilistic techniques. Examples of such techniques may include expert systems, fuzzy logic, support vector machines (SVM), Hidden Markov models (HMMs), greedy search algorithms, rule-based systems, Bayesian models (e.g., Bayesian networks), neural networks, decision tree learning methods, other non-linear training techniques, data fusion, utility-based analytical systems, or the like. Examples of the server 118 may include computers, laptops, mini-computers, mainframe computers, cloudbased servers, distributed server networks, a network of computer systems, and / or the like.

[0059] The server 118 may be implemented by way of a single device or a combination of multiple devices that are operatively connected or networked together. In some embodiments, the server 118 may be implemented in hardware, software, or a suitable combination of hardware and software. The “hardware” may comprise a combination of discrete components, an integrated circuit, an application-specific integrated circuit, a field programmable gate array, a digital signal processor, or other suitable hardware. The “software” may comprise one or more objects, agents, threads, lines of code, subroutines, separate software applications, two ormore lines of code, or other suitable software structures operating in one or more software applications or on one or more processors.

[0060] The user device 120 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code, executable by the circuitry, that may be configured to perform one or more operations. For example, the user device 120 may be configured to enable the user 104 to monitor the portable charging device 108. The user device 120 may be further configured to alert the user 104 of any abnormalities associated with the portable charging device 108. Further, the user device 120 may be configured as a remote control to enable the user 104 to control the charging of the EV 102. The user device 120 may be a computing device that is utilized, by the user 104, to initiate one or more operations by means of a service application, hosted by the server 118, running on the user device 120. For example, the user device 120 may be utilized, by the user 104, to obtain information associated with the battery health, the state of charge, and the energy level of the battery bank of the portable charging device 108.

[0061] Various modes of input that can be utilized by the user 104 may include, but are not limited to, a touch-based input, a text-based input, a voice-based input, a gesture-based input, or any combination thereof. The user device 120 may be further utilized, by the user 104, to monitor real-time data and historical trends related to the grid 110, the portable charging device 108, and the battery 106, through a user-friendly interface accessible via the service application. The interface may provide visualizations such as dashboards, graphs, and maps, allowing the user 104 to track parameters like power consumption, grid stability, charging status, and EV battery availability. Additionally, the user 104 may obtain customizable alerts and notifications of any anomalies or critical events. With secure login credentials, the user 104 may access the server 118 from anywhere. Examples of the user device 120 may include, but are not limited to, a smartphone, a tablet, a desktop, a portable computer, a personal digital assistant, a handheld phone, or the like.

[0062] In additional embodiments, the portable charging device 108 may include various location sensors (e.g., Global Positioning System (GPS) sensors) installed therein to detect location of the portable charging device 108. Location data captured by the location sensors may be available to the user 104 by way of the user device 120. In some embodiments, the user device 120 may be further configured to alert the user 104 if the portable charging device 108 is outside a predefined geographical region. Such location tracking may prevent theft of the portable charging device 108.

[0063] In an embodiment, the portable charging device 108 may include a user interface (not shown). The user 104 may utilize the user interface of the portable charging device 108 in a similar manner as that of the user device 120.

[0064] The network 122 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code, executable by the circuitry, that may be configured to transmit queries, data, content, messages, and requests between various entities, such as the EV 102, the portable charging device 108, the grid sensors 114, the circuit sensors 116, the server 118, and the user device 120. Examples of the network 122 include, but are not limited to, a wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) network, a light fidelity (Li-Fi) network, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), a satellite network, the Internet, a fiber optic network, a coaxial cable network, an infrared (IR) network, a radio frequency (RF) network, and a combination thereof. Various entities in the system environment 100 may connect to the network 122 in accordance with various wired and wireless communication protocols, such as Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), Transmission Control Protocol and Internet Protocol (TCP / IP), User Datagram Protocol (UDP), Wireless Application Protocol (WAP), Long Term Evolution (LTE) communication protocols, or any combination thereof. In an embodiment, the network 122 may be a Bluetooth module which is an easy-to-use Bluetooth Serial Port Protocol module, designed for transparent wireless serial connection setup.

[0065] FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram that illustrates the portable charging device 108, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 2, the portable charging device 108 may include an electrical input interface 202 (hereinafter referred to as the “input interface 202”), a charging system 204, an energy storage system (ESS) 206, an electrical output interface 208 (hereinafter referred to as the “output interface 208”), and a control circuit 210.

[0066] The input interface 202 may include suitable logic, circuitry, or interfaces, that may be configured to perform one or more operations for drawing power from the charging sources which includes the one or more power sources, such as the DC power source, the AC power source and an external power source. The DC power source may be the solar cell 112 and the AC power source may be the grid 110. The input interface 202 may include filters, rectifiers, voltage regulators, or the like, to condition and regulate an incoming AC power or DC power from the one or more power sources for conversion into usable DC power or AC power for charging purposes. In an embodiment, the input interface 202 may include separate circuitries for the different charging sources, such as the grid 110 and the solar cell 112. For example, the inputinterface 202 may include a DC port to receive the DC power from the solar cell 112 and the AC port to receive the AC power from the grid 110.

[0067] The charging system 204 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code, executable by the circuitry, that may be configured to perform one or more operations for facilitating the charging and discharging of the ESS 206. The charging system 204 may be configured to draw the power from the charging sources by way of the input interface 202. The drawn power may correspond to the AC power, the DC power, or a combination thereof. For example, the charging system 204 may draw an AC current and an AC voltage as input power from the charging source such as the grid 110. Alternatively, or additionally, the charging system 204 may draw a DC current and a DC voltage as input power from the charging source such as the solar cell 112. The charging system 204 may be further configured to charge the ESS 206, thereby storing the drawn power.

[0068] The ESS 206 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code, executable by the circuitry, that may be configured to perform one or more operations for storing energy. The ESS 206 may correspond to the battery bank of the portable charging device 108. The ESS 206 may thus include one or more chemical batteries, one or more fuel cells, one or more electrical media, one or more mechanical media, or a combination thereof. In a non-limiting example, the one or more chemical batteries may include Li-ion batteries, nickel-ion batteries, lead-acid batteries, Lithium ferrophosphate (LFP) batteries, or the like. Further, the one or more electrical media may include one or more capacitors or supercapacitor banks, whereas, the one or more mechanical media may include a flywheel and alternator assembly. The ESS 206 may utilize a combination of media for higher efficiency.

[0069] The ESS 206 may be arranged as a single unit or divided into a plurality of modules, rendering the portable charging device 108 modular and enabling an expandible energy storage capacity. In other words, the portable charging device 108 of the present disclosure facilitates an option of expanding the energy storage capacity by adding energy-storage modules (also referred to herein as modules). Conversely, the storage capacity may be reduced as per requirements of the user 104. Modularity of the ESS 206 is enabled by a docking mechanism which consists of pairs of male and female connectors that are attached to each of four comers of a bottom surface and a top surface of one of an energy-storage modules. In a non-limiting example, the male connectors on the bottom surface of a top module may conveniently penetrate the female connectors on the top surface of the bottom module. The connectors, being made of conducting material, may allow for the current to pass from one energy-storage module to the other energy-storage module without need for the users to manually connect wires. Insome embodiments, a plurality of energy-storage modules may be independent of each other (e.g., charge and discharge independently) and may be removably coupled to the docking mechanism. In such a scenario, each of the energy-storage module may be easily undocked or disconnected from the portable charging device 108 and replaced with a fully charged or replenished module.

[0070] Each of the module may represent a different type of battery. Further, each of the module may be a self-contained unit, housing a set of rechargeable batteries along with a necessary set of control electronics. The plurality of modules may be designed to be stackable, enabling the user 104 to build up the storage capacity by simply attaching additional modules as needed. Likewise, if the user 104 requires less storage capacity for a particular application, the user 104 can easily remove surplus modules to optimize space and weight. Further, an individual module may be added or removed without needing to shut down or interrupt charging operations of the portable charging device 108.

[0071] In additional embodiments, two or more modules may be connected in series to increase the voltage or in parallel to increase the current based on user requirements. The charging system 204 can be configured to handle the increased current or voltage to manipulate the discharge accordingly. This is handy for high power applications while maintaining battery temperature.

[0072] The charging system 204 may be further configured to charge the battery 106 of the EV 102 by discharging the energy stored in the ESS 206. The charging system 204 may charge the battery 106 of the EV 102 through the output interface 208.

[0073] The output interface 208 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code, executable by the circuitry, that may be configured to perform one or more operations for delivering power from the ESS 206 to the grid 110, an external load (e.g., the battery 106 and / or other components of the EV 102), or the like. The output interface 208 may provide the DC power from the ESS 206, as an AC power, a higher-powered DC, or a combination thereof to the external load.

[0074] The charging system 204 may operate in various modes. First mode of operation is a DC-ESS mode. In the first mode of operation, the charging source is the DC power source and the charging destination is the ESS 206. In other words, the charging system 204 may be configured to charge the ESS 206 by drawing power from the solar cell 112. Such a mode of operation allows the ESS 206 to be charged from solar panels fixed on body of the EV 102. Second mode of operation is an AC -ESS mode. In the second mode of operation, the charging source is the AC power source and the charging destination is the ESS 206. In other words, thecharging system 204 may be configured to charge the ESS 206 by drawing power from the grid 110. Such a mode of operation allows the ESS 206 to be charged via an AC plug at an office, at home, or the like. Third mode of operation is an ESS-load mode.

[0075] In a third mode of operation, the charging source is the ESS 206 and the charging destination is the external load. The external load may be the external DC load or the external AC load. In other words, in the third mode of operation, the charging system 204 may be configured to charge the charging destination, for example, the battery 106 by discharging the charging source, for example, the ESS 206 (e.g., deliver the charge stored in the ESS 206 to the battery 106). Additionally, or alternatively, the charging system 204 may be configured to deliver the charge stored in the ESS 206 to the grid 110. In an embodiment, the sensor data recorded by the grid sensors 114 may indicate that demand associated with the grid 110 is above a predetermined threshold. In such a scenario, the charging system 204 may deliver the charge stored in the ESS 206 to the grid 110 to maintain stability of the grid 110.

[0076] A fourth mode of operation is an ESS bypass mode. In the fourth mode of operation, the charging source is the external power source and the charging destination is the external load. The external load may be a DC load or an AC load.

[0077] In the fourth mode of operation, the charging system 204 may be configured to draw power from the charging source, for example, the solar cell 112 and deliver the drawn power to the charging destination, for example, the battery 106 or the grid 110. In some embodiments, in the fourth mode of operation, the charging system 204 may be configured to deliver the power directly to the electric motor of the EV 102, thereby bypassing the battery 106.

[0078] Although it is described that the charging system 204 has four modes of operation, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to it. In various other embodiments, the charging system 204 may have less than or more than four modes of operation, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0079] The charging system 204 thus corresponds to a multi-port bidirectional system that achieves all the four modes of operation. As a result, the charging system 204, and in turn, the portable charging device 108 is compact, lightweight, and cost-effective. The charging system 204 is explained in detail in conjunction with FIGS. 3 and 4A-4E.

[0080] Efficient energy storage in the ESS 206 and control and management of the delivery of the power from the ESS 206 to the battery 106 may be enabled through the control circuit 210.

[0081] The control circuit 210 may include suitable logic, circuitry, interfaces, and / or code executable by the circuitry, and may be configured to perform one or more operations to control the charging, storing, and discharging operations of the portable charging device 108. Thecontrol circuit 210 may be coupled to the charging system 204 and may be configured to select one of the modes of operation of the four modes of modes of operation. The mode of operation for the charging system 204 may be selected based on the charging source and the charging destination. The charging system 204 may then operate the charging system 204 in the selected mode of operation to transfer the power from the charging source to the charging destination.

[0082] In an embodiment, the user 104 may configure the ESS 206 to include a combination of chemical batteries, fuel cells, electrical media, and mechanical media. For instance, the user 104 may select an LFP battery module for slow to medium charging or a supercapacitor module for fast charging. In such a scenario, the control circuit 210 may be configured to identify the charging source, for example, the charging media and control the mode of operation of the charging system 204 to charge the EV 102 (e.g., the battery 106), thus providing customized charging solutions.

[0083] The control circuit 210 may be configured to execute various operations associated with the power system 108. Examples of the operations may include, for example, a chargedischarge control operation, a state of charge estimation operation, a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) operation, or the like. Although not shown, the control circuit 210 may include a dedicated module for executing each of the aforementioned operations.

[0084] The control circuit 210 may be configured to control the operation of the charging system 204 such that the power (e.g., the output current and the output voltage) delivered by the charging system 204 to the battery 106 is constant across process-voltage-temperature (PVT) variations.

[0085] The control circuit 210 may be configured to estimate a state of charge in the ESS 206. In an embodiment, the control circuit 210 may be configured to monitor the voltage level of the ESS 206, by way of a voltage sensor coupled to the ESS 206, to estimate the state of charge therein. Based on the estimated state of charge, the control circuit 210 may be configured to control the charging system 204 to facilitate a constant current (CC) charging of the ESS 206 or a constant voltage (CV) charging of the ESS 206. Similarly, the control circuit 210 may be configured to determine if the ESS 206 is fully charged or depleted of charge. Additionally, the control circuit 210 may be configured to monitor temperature of the ESS 206, by way of a temperature sensor coupled to the ESS 206, to control a discharge rate of the ESS 206, by controlling the charging system 204. For example, if an operating temperature is higher than a tolerance temperature of the ESS 206, the discharge current rate is reduced for protection of the ESS 206 (e.g., the battery bank of the ESS 206). The discharge rate may further be afunction of a type of batteries included in the ESS 206. The control circuit 210 may execute the aforementioned operations for the battery 106 as well.

[0086] The control circuit 210 may further be configured to track maximum power from the solar cell 112. The drawn power from the solar cell 112 (e.g., the output voltage and current) changes with a change in atmospheric temperature and irradiation. The control circuit 210 may thus be configured to execute an efficient MPPT algorithm to ensure fast and efficient tracking of the power drawn from the solar cell 112.

[0087] The control circuit 210 may be implemented as a compact microprocessor unit or a microcontroller embedded within the portable charging device 108. The microprocessor may be equipped with sophisticated algorithms capable of monitoring various system parameters, including the input / output current and voltage, the battery health, the state of charge, and the energy level, or the like. Thus, through continuous data analysis, the control circuit 210 ensures precise control over charging / discharging processes, maintaining optimal battery performance and longevity of the portable charging device 108.

[0088] FIG. 3 is a schematic circuit diagram that illustrates the charging system 204, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the charging system 204 is coupled to the solar cell 112, the ESS 206, the grid 110, a DC load 302, and an AC load 304. The charging system 204 may include a bi-directional converter 306, an inverter / rectifier circuit 308, a plurality of switches, and an LC circuit 310. The bi-directional converter is coupled to the plurality of switches. The inverter / rectifier circuit is couplable to the bi-directional converter using the plurality of switches.

[0089] The bi-directional converter 306 may include a first diode DI, a first capacitor Cl, first through fourth switches S1-S4, a first inductor LI, a second diode D2, and a second capacitor C2. In an embodiment, the first through fourth switches S1-S4 are single-pole single-throw (SPST) switches.

[0090] An input terminal of the first diode DI is coupled to the solar cell 112. The first capacitor Cl has a first terminal coupled to an output terminal of the first diode DI and a second terminal coupled to the ESS 206 (e.g., a negative terminal of the ESS 206). Further, the output terminal of the first diode DI is coupled to a first terminal of the first switch SI and a first terminal of the first inductor LI. A second terminal of the first switch SI and a first terminal of the second switch S2 are coupled to the ESS 206 (e.g., a positive terminal of the ESS 206). The first diode DI may operate in a forward-biased mode and may be configured to provide a unidirectional current flow from the solar cell 112 for protection of the ESS 206. The first diode DI may further be configured to prevent a battery discharge operation of the ESS 206.

[0091] The second diode D2 has an input terminal coupled to a second terminal of the first inductor LI, and an output terminal coupled to a second terminal of the second switch S2. The second diode D2 may be operated in the forward-bias mode to provide the current to charge the ESS 206. Further, each of the third and fourth switches S3 and S4 has first and second terminals. The third and fourth switches are coupled in series such that the second terminal of the third switch S3 is coupled to the first terminal of the fourth switch S4. The second terminal of the third switch S3 and the first terminal of the fourth switch S4 are additionally coupled to the second terminal of the first inductor LI and the input terminal of the second diode D2. Further, the second capacitor C2 is coupled between the first terminal of the third switch S3 and the second terminal of the fourth switch S4. In other words, the second capacitor C2 is coupled parallel to the third and fourth switches S3 and S4.

[0092] The inverter / rectifier circuit 308 may include fifth through eighth switches S5-S8, each having first and second terminals. In an embodiment, the fifth through eighth switches S5-S8 are SPST switches. The fifth and sixth switches S5 and S6 are coupled in series such that the second terminal of the fifth switch S5 is coupled to the first terminal of the sixth switch S6. Similarly, the seventh and eighth switches S7 and S8 are coupled in series such that the second terminal of the seventh switch S7 is coupled to the first terminal of the eighth switch S8. Further, the first terminal of the fifth switch S5 is coupled to the first terminal of the seventh switch S7. Similarly, the second terminal of the sixth switch S6 is coupled to the second terminal of the eighth switch S8.

[0093] The inverter / rectifier circuit 308 is implemented to be free of the transformers, providing enhanced compactness. Hence, the portable charging device 108 can fit in the trunk of the EV 102 and provide an emergency backup power to the EV 102.

[0094] The charging system 204 may further include ninth and tenth switches S9 and S10. In an embodiment, the ninth and tenth switches S9 and S 10 are single-pole double-throw (SPDT) switches. Thus, each of the ninth and tenth switches S9 and S10 has first through third terminals. The ninth switch S9 has a first terminal coupled to the first terminal of the third switch S3, a second terminal coupled to the DC load 302 (e.g., a positive terminal of the DC load 302), and a third terminal coupled to the first terminals of the fifth and seventh switches S5 and S7. Similarly, the tenth switch S10 has a first terminal coupled to the second terminal of the fourth switch S4, a second terminal coupled to the DC load 302 (e.g., a negative terminal of the DC load 302), and a third terminal coupled to the second terminals of the sixth and eighth switches S6 and S8. The ninth and tenth switches S9 and S10 may thus couple the bi-directionalconverter 306 to the DC load 302 or the inverter / rectifier circuit 308 based on the mode of operation of the charging system 204.

[0095] The LC circuit 310 may include a second inductor L2, a third inductor L3, and a third capacitor C3. The second inductor L2 has a first terminal coupled to the second terminal of the fifth switch S5, and the third inductor L3 has a first terminal coupled to the second terminal of the seventh switch S7. Further, the third capacitor C3 is coupled between second terminals of the second and third inductors L2 and L3. The LC circuit 310 may enable frequency filtering operation for the grid 110 or the AC load 304.

[0096] The charging system 204 may further include eleventh and twelfth switches Si l and S12. In an embodiment, the eleventh and twelfth switches Si l and S12 are the SPDT switches. Thus, each of the eleventh and twelfth switches Si l and S12 has first through third terminals. The eleventh switch Si l has a first terminal coupled to the second terminal of the second inductor L2, a second terminal coupled to the AC load 304, and a third terminal coupled to the grid 110. Similarly, the twelfth switch S12 has a first terminal coupled to the second terminal of the third inductor L3, a second terminal coupled to the AC load 304, and a third terminal coupled to the grid 110. The eleventh and twelfth switches Si l and S12 may thus couple the LC circuit 310 to the AC load 304 or the grid 110 based on the mode of operation of the charging system 204.

[0097] Although not shown, the control circuit 210 may be configured to generate various control signals that control the activation and deactivation of the first through twelfth switches S1-S12.

[0098] The ESS 206 may include at least one cell 312 and a fourth capacitor C4 that are coupled in parallel. The fourth capacitor C4 may be configured to store the energy to provide a continuous input current to the cell 312.

[0099] The bi-directional converter 306 may be configured to draw power from the solar cell 112 and charge the ESS 206. Alternatively, the bi-directional converter 306, by way of the eleventh and twelfth switches Si l and SI 2, the LC circuit 310, the inverter / rectifier circuit 308, and the ninth and tenth switches S9 and S10, may be configured to draw power from the grid 110 and charge the ESS 206. Further, the bi-directional converter 306 may be configured to provide the charge stored in the ESS 206 to the DC load 302 or the AC load 304. The DC load 302 may be charged by way of the ninth and tenth switches S9 and S10, whereas, the AC load 304 may be charged by way of the ninth and tenth switches S9 and S10, the inverter / rectifier circuit 308, the LC circuit 310, and the eleventh and twelfth switches Si l and S12. As the portable charging device 108 is suitable for delivering power to both the DC load 302 and theAC load 304, Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 charging of the EV 102 is ensured. Additionally, the bi-directional converter 306 may be configured to provide the charge stored in the ESS 206 to the grid 110 by way of the ninth and tenth switches S9 and S10, the inverter / rectifier circuit 308, the LC circuit 310, and the eleventh and twelfth switches SI 1 and S12. Various modes of operation of the charging system 204 are illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4E.

[0100] FIG. 4A is a schematic circuit diagram that illustrates the charging system 204 operating in the first mode of operation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The first mode of operation is the Direct Current (DC)-ESS mode. In the first mode of operation, the charging source is the DC power source, for example, the solar cell 112 and the charging destination is the ESS 206.

[0101] In a scenario, when the charging source is identified as the DC power source and the charging destination is identified as the ESS 206, the control circuit 210 is configured to select the DC-ESS mode as the mode of operation and operate the charging system 204 in the DC- ESS mode. In the DC-ESS mode, the DC power source is coupled to the ESS 206 by way of the bi-directional converter 306. In addition, the inverter / rectifier circuit 308 is isolated from the bi-directional converter 306 using the plurality of switches. The charging system 204 is configured to transfer the DC power from the DC power source to the ESS 206 by way of the bi-directional converter.

[0102] In the DC-ESS mode of operation, the first, third, ninth, and tenth switches SI, S3, S9, and S10 are open. The second and fourth switches S2 and S4 are controlled during different stages of the first mode of operation to enable charging of the ESS 206 from the solar cell 112. The equivalent circuit diagram of the charging system 204 is illustrated in FIG. 4A.

[0103] During a first stage of the DC-ESS mode, the second switch S2 is open and the fourth switch S4 is closed. The first diode DI ensures unidirectional current flow from the solar cell 112 for the protection thereof. The first inductor LI stores energy from the solar cell 112, and the inductor current increases. The fourth switch S4 ensures the MPPT of the solar cell 112 as well as the boost operation. The voltage level of the solar cell 112 is thus boosted up to the voltage level of the ESS 206 to charge the ESS 206. The fourth capacitor C4 provides the continuous current to the cell 312.

[0104] During a second stage of the DC-ESS mode, the second switch S2 is closed and the fourth switch S4 is open. Further, the second diode D2 is forward-biased. The second switch S2 and the second diode D2 enable charging of the ESS 206. For example, the inductor current in the first inductor LI decreases as its stored energy is used to charge the ESS 206 by way of the second diode D2 and the closed second switch S2.

[0105] When the battery is fully charged, the second switch S2 operates in a non-MPPT mode to ensure a CC-CV charging profile of the ESS 206.

[0106] FIG. 4B is a schematic circuit diagram that illustrates the charging system 204 operating in the second mode of operation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The second mode of operation is the AC -ESS mode. In the second mode of operation, the charging source is the AC power source, for example, the grid 110 and the charging destination is the ESS 206.

[0107] In a scenario, when the charging source is identified as the AC power source and the charging destination is identified as the ESS 206, the control circuit 210 is configured to select the AC -ESS mode as the mode of operation and operate the charging system 204 in the AC- ESS mode. In the AC -ESS mode, the inverter / rectifier circuit 308 is coupled to the bidirectional converter 306 using the plurality of switches, and the AC power source is coupled to the ESS 206 by way of the bi-directional converter 306 and the inverter / rectifier circuit 308.

[0108] In the AC -ESS mode of operation, the second switch S2 is open, the ninth and tenth switches S9 and S10 couple the bi-directional converter 306 to the inverter / rectifier circuit 308, and the eleventh and twelfth switches Si l and S12 couple the LC circuit 310 to the grid 110. The third and fourth switches S3 and S4 are controlled during different stages of the second mode of operation to enable charging of the ESS 206 from the grid 110. The equivalent circuit diagram of the charging system 204 is illustrated in FIG. 4B.

[0109] During a first stage of the AC -ESS mode, the third switch S3 is closed and the fourth switch S4 is open. The inverter / rectifier circuit 308 converts the AC voltage from the grid 110 to a DC voltage, and the third switch S3 ensures the step-down operation of the DC voltage for the second mode. The inductor current of the first inductor LI increases. Further, the first switch SI is closed (e.g., a body diode of the first switch SI is operating in the forward-biased mode), thereby enabling the charging of the ESS 206.

[0110] During a second stage of the AC -ESS mode, the third switch S3 is open. Further, the inductor current decreases and the first and fourth switches SI and S4 are closed (e.g., body diodes of the first and fourth switches SI and S4 are operating in the forward-biased mode) to provide continuous current flow. In an embodiment, the second stage may be activated after the ESS 206 is fully charged.[oni] In the AC -ESS mode, the charging system 204 is configured to receive the AC power from the AC power source. The charging system 204 then converts the AC power to the DC power by way of the inverter / rectifier circuit 306 and deliver the DC power to the ESS by way of the bi-directional converter 306.

[0112] FIG. 4C is a schematic circuit diagram that illustrates the charging system 204 operating in the third mode of operation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The third mode of operation is the ESS-load mode. In the third mode of operation, the charging source is the ESS 206 and the charging destination is either the external AC load or the external DC load.

[0113] In a case, when the charging source is the ESS 206 and the charging destination is the external load, the control circuit 210 is configured to select the ESS-load mode as the mode of operation. This results in the charging system 204 to operate in the ESS-load mode.

[0114] In the ESS-load mode, when the external load is an external DC load, the ESS 206 is coupled to the external DC load by way of the bi-directional converter 306. In addition, the inverter / rectifier circuit 308 is isolated from the bi-directional converter 306 using the plurality of switches. Further, the charging system 204 is configured to transfer power from the ESS 206 to the external load by way of the bi-directional converter 306.

[0115] When the charging system 204 is operating in the ESS-load mode and the external load is the external AC load, the inverter / rectifier circuit 308 is coupled to the bi-directional converter 306 using the plurality of switches. The external AC load is coupled to the ESS 206 by way of the bidirectional converter 306 and the inverter / rectifier circuit 308. In addition, the charging system 204 is configured to receive the DC power from the ESS 206 by way of the bi-directional converter. The received DC power from the ESS 206 is converted to the AC power by way of the inverter / rectifier circuit 308 and the AC power is delivered to the external AC load.

[0116] In the ESS-load mode of operation, the second switch S2 is open, and the ninth and tenth switches S9 and S10 couple the bi-directional converter 306 to the DC load 302. The first, third, and fourth switches SI, S3, and S4 are controlled during different stages of the third mode of operation to enable the discharging of the ESS 206. The equivalent circuit diagram of the charging system 204 is illustrated in FIG. 4C.

[0117] During a first stage of the ESS-load mode of operation, the first and fourth switches SI and S4 are closed and the third switch S3 is open. The first inductor LI is charged from the ESS 206 by way of the closed first and fourth switches SI and S4, and the inductor current increases. The second capacitor C2 ensures continuous current flow to the DC load 302. The switch S4 enables a step-up or a boost operation of the voltage of the ESS 206 to match the requirement of the DC load 302, the AC load 304, and / or the grid 110.

[0118] During a second stage of the ESS-load mode of operation, the first switch SI is closed, the fourth switch S4 is open, and the third switch S3 is closed (e.g., a body diode of the thirdswitch S3 is forward-biased). The inductor current discharges, thereby charging / powering the DC load 302.

[0119] FIG. 4D is a schematic circuit diagram that illustrates the charging system 204 operating in an alternative way in the third mode of operation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0120] In the alternative way of the third mode of operation, the charging system 204 may deliver the charge stored in the ESS 206 to a DC load DC microgrid 402.

[0121] In the alternative way of the ESS-load mode of operation, the charging system 204 may ensure power supply to the DC load DC microgrid 402 depending on requirements of the user 104. During the alternative way of the third mode of operation, the fourth switch S4 is closed permanently. The equivalent circuit diagram of the charging system 204 is illustrated in FIG. 4D.

[0122] During a first stage of the alternative way of the ESS-load mode of operation, the first and fourth switches SI and S4 are closed and the third switch S3 is open. The first inductor LI is charged from the ESS 206 by way of the closed first and fourth switches SI and S4, and the inductor current increases. The capacitor Cbb ensures continuous current flow to the DC load DC microgrid 314. The switch S4 is closed permanently to enable a step-up or a boost operation, and a buck (step-down) or buck boost (step-up / step-down) operation to regulate the voltage of the ESS 206 to match requirement of the DC load DC microgrid 314, the AC load 304, and / or the grid 110.

[0123] During a second stage of the alternative way of the third mode of operation, the first switch SI is open and the fourth switch S4 is closed. Diode Dbb gets a forward bias and starts conducting. The inductor current decreases, thereby charging / powering the DC load DC microgrid 314.

[0124] In an embodiment, to achieve a very high voltage gain or attenuation in the alternative way of the third mode of operation, a quadratic buck-boost converter may be utilized.

[0125] Additionally, or alternatively, in the ESS-load mode of operation, the charging system 204 may be configured to deliver the charge stored in the ESS 206 to the grid 110. In such a scenario, the ninth and tenth switches S9 and S10 couple the bi-directional converter 306 to the inverter / rectifier circuit 308, and the eleventh and twelfth switches SI 1 and S12 couple the LC circuit 310 to the grid 110. The inverter / rectifier circuit 308 converts the DC power to the AC power for the grid 110. Similarly, in the third mode of operation, the charging system 204 may be configured to deliver the charge stored in the ESS 206 to the AC load 304. In such a scenario, the ninth and tenth switches S9 and S10 couple the bi-directional converter 306 to theinverter / rectifier circuit 308, and the eleventh and twelfth switches SI 1 and S12 couple the LC circuit 310 to the AC load 304. The aforementioned two scenarios are not illustrated in FIG. 4C and FIG. 4D to keep the illustration concise and clear and should not be considered a limitation of the present disclosure. In an alternate application, the ESS 206 may operate as a substitute source of power for the battery 106 of the machine, for example, the EV 102 or may act as a supplementary energy storage tool for operating the electric motor of the EV 102.

[0126] FIG. 4E is a schematic circuit diagram that illustrates the charging system 204 operating in the fourth mode of operation, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The fourth mode of operation is the ESS bypass mode. In the fourth mode of operation, the charging source is the external power source and the charging destination is the external load.

[0127] In a scenario, when the charging source is an external power source and the charging destination is the external load, the control circuit 210 is configured to select the ESS bypass mode as the mode of operation and operate the charging system 204 in the ESS bypass mode. In the ESS bypass mode, the ESS 206 is isolated from the bi-directional converter 306.

[0128] In the ESS bypass mode, the charging system 204 is configured to receive power from the external power source and deliver the received power to the external load. The external load is either of the AC load 304 or the DC load 302.

[0129] In the ESS bypass mode when the external load is the DC load 302, the inverter / rectifier circuit 308 is isolated from the bi-directional converter 306 using the plurality of switches. In addition, the received power is delivered to the external load by way of the bi-directional converter 306. However, in the ESS bypass mode when the external load is the AC load 304, the inverter / rectifier circuit 308 is coupled to the bi-directional converter 306 using the plurality of switches. In addition, the received power is delivered to the external load by way of the bidirectional converter 306 and the inverter / rectifier circuit 308.

[0130] In the ESS bypass mode, the first and second switches SI and S2 are open, and the ninth and tenth switches S9 and S10 couple the bi-directional converter 306 to the DC load 302. The third and fourth switches S3 and S4 are controlled during different stages of the fourth mode of operation to enable powering of the DC load 302. The equivalent circuit diagram of the charging system 204 is illustrated in FIG. 4E.

[0131] During a first stage of the fourth mode, the fourth switch S4 is closed and the third switch S3 is open. The first inductor LI is charged from the solar cell 112, and the inductor current increases. The second capacitor C2 ensures continuous current flow to the DC load 302.

[0132] During a second stage of the fourth mode, the fourth switch S4 is open and the third switch S3 is closed. The inductor current discharges, thereby charging / powering the DC load 302.

[0133] Additionally, or alternatively, in the fourth mode of operation, the charging system 204 may be configured to deliver the power drawn from the solar cell 112 to the grid 110. In such a scenario, the ninth and tenth switches S9 and S10 couple the bi-directional converter 306 to the inverter / rectifier circuit 308, and the eleventh and twelfth switches SI 1 and S12 couple the LC circuit 310 to the grid 110. The inverter / rectifier circuit 308 converts the DC power to the AC power for the grid 110. Similarly, in the fourth mode of operation, the charging system 204 may be configured to deliver the power drawn from the solar cell 112 to the AC load 304. In such a scenario, the ninth and tenth switches S9 and S10 couple the bi-directional converter 306 to the inverter / rectifier circuit 308, and the eleventh and twelfth switches Si l and S12 couple the LC circuit 310 to the AC load 304. The aforementioned two scenarios are not illustrated in FIG. 4E to keep the illustration concise and clear and should not be considered a limitation of the present disclosure.

[0134] In the fourth mode of operation, a boost operation is maintained to match the voltage level of the grid 110 or the level 3 (DC to DC) charging.

[0135] The DC load 302 may correspond to the battery 106. The EV 102 may include a DC- to-DC converter (not shown) coupled between the battery 106 and other components of the EV 102 (e.g., auxiliary systems such as lights, air conditioning, heating, entertainment systems, onboard computers, or the like). The DC-to-DC converter may be configured to provide the charge stored in the battery 106 as a high-powered DC to such components of the EV 102. Additionally, the EV 102 may include an inverter (not shown) that is coupled between the battery 106 and an AC electric motor (e.g., 3-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor) that drives the EV 102. The inverter may be directly coupled to the battery 106 or via the DC-to- DC converter. The inverter may be configured to convert the charge stored in the battery 106 into AC power for driving the AC electric motor, which in turn drives the wheels of the EV 102. The battery 106 may thus be utilized for driving the EV 102. Further, the speed of the EV 102 may be controlled by adjusting the operating frequency of the inverter.

[0136] The AC load 304 may correspond to the AC electric motor. Thus, in the present disclosure, the inverter may be additionally coupled to the power system 108. In other words, the inverter may be a 3 -legged inverter coupling the DC-to-DC converter, the power system 108, and the AC electric motor. Thus, in a scenario where the battery 106 of the EV 102 is drained and the EV 102 is in motion, the inverter may be controlled such that the solar cell 112can be used to directly power the EV 102. The battery 106 is thus bypassed. The control circuit 210 may be configured to control the sinusoidal pulse width modulation (SPWM) of the inverter to enable the aforementioned operation. Thus, during an emergency, when the battery 106 is drained, the battery 106 can be bypassed and the AC electric motor can be driven directly via the solar cell 112.

[0137] Alternatively, in the absence of the solar cell 112, the power system 108 can still charge the EV 102 bypassing the battery 106 while the EV 102 is in motion. The inverter may be controlled such that the stored energy in the ESS 206 can be configured to directly power the EV 102. Thus, during an emergency, when in the absence of the solar cell 112 and the battery 106 is drained, the battery 106 can be bypassed and the AC electric motor can be driven directly via the ESS 206.

[0138] In an embodiment, the inverter may be configured to act as a rectifier during braking, enabling regenerative braking by feeding the AC electric motor power back to the battery 106 and / or the ESS 206.

[0139] In an embodiment, to achieve a very high voltage gain or attenuation in the alternative way of the third mode of operation, a quadratic buck-boost converter may be utilized. Similarly, in other modes of operation, a quadratic boost converter may be utilized.

[0140] In an embodiment, during the ESS-load mode and the ESS bypass mode of operation, the battery 106 either receives power from the grid 110 or delivers power to the grid 110. To execute this operation of receiving and delivering the power, the switch SI is continuously maintained in a conducting state. To avoid overheating of the switch SI, the switch SI may be replaced by a relay in the third and the fourth modes of operation.

[0141] In additional embodiments, the power system 108 may be configured to charge the battery 106 while the battery 106 is powering the EV 102.

[0142] The various modes of operation may be selected through the mode selection operation enabled by the control circuit 210. In an embodiment, the control circuit 210 may be configured to sense a voltage of the solar cell 112, a current of the solar cell 112, a voltage of the battery 106, a current of the battery 106, and a current mode of operation of the power system 108.

[0143] If the mode corresponds to the first mode, the control circuit 210 may check if the voltage of the battery 106 has reached its maximum level, and if yes, the control circuit 210 may configure the fourth switch S4 such that boost mode CV charging is enabled, and the second switch S2 may be complement of the fourth switch S4. Conversely, if the voltage of the battery 106 is less than the maximum level, the fourth switch S4 is operated at a differencebetween MPPT and power in the boost mode, while the second switch S2 may be complement of the fourth switch S4.

[0144] If the mode corresponds to the second mode, the control circuit 210 may check if the voltage of the battery 106 has reached its maximum level, and if yes, the control circuit 210 may configure the third switch S3 such that buck mode CV charging is enabled. Conversely, if the voltage of the battery 106 is less than the maximum level, the control circuit 210 may configure the third switch S3 such that buck mode CC charging is enabled.

[0145] If the mode corresponds to the third mode, the control circuit 210 may check if the voltage of the battery 106 is above its minimum level, and if yes, the fourth switch S4 is operated to enable discharging in the boost mode.

[0146] If the mode corresponds to the fourth mode, the fourth switch S4 is operated at a difference between MPPT and power in the boost mode, while the first switch SI is activated (e.g., closed).

[0147] The scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the circuit diagram illustrated in FIG. 3. In other embodiments, the first inductor LI may be replaced by a coupled inductor (not shown) if a high voltage gain is required. Additionally, zero voltage switching (ZVS) and / or zero current switching (ZCS) may be incorporated into the switches to increase efficiency.

[0148] The control circuit 210 controls various components of the charging system 204. The control circuit 210 may execute various ML algorithms to improve the charging and powering of the power system 102. For example, the control circuit 210 may receive the power level of the grid 110 captured by the grid sensors 114 and estimate the power demand of the grid 110. The predicted power demand may be utilized for controlling the charging or discharging of the ESS 206. In a non-limiting example, during a low power demand from the grid 110, the ESS 206 may be charged. Conversely, during a high-power demand, the ESS 206 or the solar cell 112 may be utilized to provide power to the grid 110. Additionally, the control circuit 210 may be configured to predict the battery health, the state of charge, and the energy level of the ESS 206 based on the sensor data captured by the circuit sensors 116. The control circuit 210 may be further configured to predict the best mode of operation for the charging system 204 based on the predicted battery health, the state of charge, and the energy level of the ESS 206. Similarly, the control circuit 210 may be further configured to predict a best energy-storing media or a combination thereof amongst multiple available energy-storing media in the ESS 206. The user 104 may check the predictions via the user device 120. Additionally, the user 104 may be able to select the best energy-storing media and / or the best mode of operation of the charging system 204 through the user device 120.

[0149] The aforementioned operations may also be performed by the server 118. Additionally, in an embodiment, the user 104 may be verified by the server 118 to gain access to a service application installed on the user device 120. The service application may include a user interface in the form of a dashboard for easy access. The dashboard may include one or more links, pop-ups, icons, or the like, to enable monitoring of the portable charging device 108.

[0150] FIG. 5 is a schematic circuit diagram 500 that illustrates a cascaded representation of multi-phase bidirectional boost converters, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The cascaded representation arranges architectural features of a multi-phase bidirectional boost converter in a cascaded arrangement. This arrangement enables the multiphase bidirectional boost converters to achieve high voltage gain and high current carrying capacity while minimizing additional burden on the battery 106, multiple switches, and other components such as the inductor and the capacitor. In an embodiment, the cascaded representation of the multi-phase bidirectional boost converters may have the two or more multi-phase bidirectional boost converters connected in a series arrangement. This arrangement helps to achieve a higher overall voltage gain, with each stage contributing to an increase in total boost, improving efficiency and reducing component stress by handling smaller voltage steps. This may be achieved due to a decrease in a count of duty cycles. The cascaded representation of the of multi-phase bidirectional boost converters offers better voltage regulation, making it ideal for applications requiring a significant voltage boost, such as the DC to AC conversion where voltage may range from an input voltage of 48V to a boosted output voltage of 400V.

[0151] In an embodiment, the multi-phase bidirectional boost converters may include multiple bidirectional boost converters that may be arranged in a parallel arrangement. In this arrangement, multiple parallel phases may share the load current and minimize current ripples leading to improved efficiency of the multi-phase bidirectional boost converters. The cascaded representation of the multi-phase bidirectional boost converters may balance performance of parameters such as thermal stress, and enable reduced passive timelines, by reducing both current and voltage ripples.

[0152] By way of an example, the cascaded multi-phase bidirectional boost converter may allow for high voltage gain without overstressing the battery, switches, or other passive components. Interleaved design of the cascaded multi-phase bidirectional boost converter may help distribute a high load current effectively. This results in reduced PR losses. In other words, distribution of the high load current may result in reduced power loss in a form of heat due to resistance of electrical conductors, resulting in improved overall efficiency and reliability ofthe converter. In applications, where cascading increases current demand on the ESS 206, use of parallel battery banks may mitigate this issue to ensure providing a stable and efficient multiphase bidirectional boost converter.

[0153] The bidirectional converter 306 may be combined multiple times in the series and / or the parallel arrangement to obtain higher voltage or current gain, respectively while minimizing size and ratings of the components. The cascaded multi-phase bidirectional boost converter may be utilized in all the above-mentioned four modes to ensure smaller component size.

[0154] FIG. 6 is a diagram 600 that illustrates the portable charging device 108, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The portable charging device 108 has a specific contour that allows it seamlessly adapt and integrate into a trunk 602 of the EV 102. The portable charging device 108 comprises a housing having dimensions and may be represented as a compact enclosure 604. The compact enclosure 604 may be equipped with one or more wheels 606 that are integrated at bottom of the compact enclosure 604 for mobility.

[0155] The compact enclosure 604 may include a main body that may be constructed from lightweight yet durable materials, ensuring both portability and robustness. The compact enclosure 604 may provide a sleek and ergonomic design, optimizing space utilization without compromising on functionality. For instance, the dimensions of the compact enclosure 604 may be calibrated to strike a balance between portability and storage capacity, ensuring that the power system 108 can easily fit into the trunk 602 of the EV 102.

[0156] A wheel assembly of the one or more wheels 606 may be strategically positioned at the comers of the bottom portion of the compact enclosure 604, providing stability and maneuverability during movement. Each wheel 606 may be equipped with a high-quality bearing system, allowing the user 104 to effortlessly maneuver the power system 108 across various surfaces, including pavement, gravel, and indoor flooring. The wheel assembly may be securely attached to bottom of the compact enclosure 604 and ensures reliability and longevity in diverse operating conditions.

[0157] The compact enclosure 604 may have input ports (not shown) for receiving power from both the AC power source and the DC power source along with output ports (not shown) for delivering the stored charge. In other words, the compact enclosure 604 may house the input interface 202 to receive power from the charging source and the output interface 208 to deliver the power to the charging destination. Additionally, the compact enclosure 604 may house the charging system 204 and the control circuit 210. The compact enclosure 604 may further be configured with a modular energy storage chamber 608 allowing for customizable storage capacity. The modular energy storage chamber 608 may be detachable from the main body ofthe compact enclosure 604. In an embodiment, the modular energy storage chamber 608 may be attached to the main body of the compact enclosure 604 by means of a docking mechanism. The modular energy storage chamber 608 may store the ESS 206.

[0158] The compact enclosure 604 may have a retractable handle mechanism 610 that may be pulled in and out whenever required. The retractable handle mechanism 610 may be integrated into the compact enclosure 604. The retractable handle mechanism 610 may be ergonomically designed for comfortable grip and may be extended or retracted as needed, allowing the user 104 to easily maneuver the power system 108 during transportation. In an embodiment, the retractable handle mechanism 610 may operate via a simple locking mechanism, enabling the user 104 to securely extend the handle for carrying and retract it for storage. When not in use, the retractable handle mechanism 610 may neatly retract into the compact enclosure 604 to minimize protrusions and optimize the compactness for storage in the trunk 602 of the EV 102.

[0159] FIG. 7 is a block diagram that illustrates a computer system 700 for charging and powering machines, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. An embodiment of the disclosure, or portions thereof, may be implemented as computer-readable code on the computer system 700. In one example, the server 118, the control circuit 210, and the user device 120 may be implemented in the computer system 700 using hardware, software, firmware, non-transitory computer-readable media having instructions stored thereon, or a combination thereof and may be implemented in one or more computer systems or other processing systems. Hardware, software, or any combination thereof may embody modules and components used to implement associated operations.

[0160] The computer system 700 may include a processor 702 that may be a special-purpose or a general-purpose processing device. The processor 702 may be a single processor, multiple processors, or combinations thereof. The processor 702 may have one or more processor “cores.” Further, the processor 702 may be connected to a communication infrastructure 704, such as a bus, a bridge, a message queue, a multi-core message-passing scheme, the network 122, or the like. The computer system 700 may further include a main memory 706 and a secondary memory 708. Examples of the main memory 706 may include a random-accessmemory, a read-only-memory, and the like. The secondary memory 708 may include a hard disk drive or a removable storage drive (not shown), such as a floppy disk drive, a magnetic tape drive, a compact disc, an optical disk drive, a flash memory, or the like. Further, the removable storage drive may read from and / or write to a removable storage device in a manner known in the art. In an embodiment, the removable storage unit may be a non-transitory computer-readable recording media.

[0161] The computer system 700 may further include an input / output (I / O) port 710 and a communication interface 712. The I / O port 710 may include various input and output devices that are configured to communicate with the processor 702. Examples of the input devices may include a keyboard, a mouse, a joystick, a touchscreen, a microphone, and the like. Examples of the output devices may include a display screen, a speaker, headphones, and the like. The communication interface 712 may be configured to allow data to be transferred between the computer system 700 and various devices that are communicatively coupled to the computer system 700. Examples of the communication interface 712 may include a modem, a network interface, i.e., an Ethernet card, a communication port, and the like. Data transferred via the communication interface 712 may be signals, such as electronic, electromagnetic, optical, or other signals as will be apparent to a person skilled in the art. The signals may travel via a communications channel, such as the network 122, which may be configured to transmit the signals to the various devices that are communicatively coupled to the computer system 700. Examples of the communication channel may include a wired, wireless, and / or optical medium such as cable, fiber optics, a phone line, a cellular phone link, a radio frequency link, and the like. The main memory 706 and the secondary memory 708 may refer to non-transitory computer-readable mediums that may provide data that enables the computer system 700 to implement associated operations.

[0162] FIG. 8 is a block diagram that represents high-level components of the portable charging device, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The portable charging and powering device includes the ESS and the charging system coupled to the ESS. The charging system is operable in the plurality of modes of operation. The plurality of the modes of operation includes the DC-ESS mode, the AC -ESS mode, the ESS-load mode, and the ESS bypass mode. The charging system includes the control circuit which is coupled to the charging system. Based on the charging source and the charging destination, the control circuit is configured to select the mode of operation for the charging system and operate the charging system in the selected mode of operation to transfer power from the charging source to the charging destination.

[0163] Embodiments in the present disclosure, provides the portable charging device 108 that offers several advantages over traditional charging infrastructure. The portable charging device 108 may independently deliver a charge to the EV (e.g., the EV 102). The charging system 204 of the portable charging device 108 may be implemented as a multi-port bidirectional system, where a single circuit can function in all four modes of operation. Further, the charging system 204 may be transformer-less, resulting in the charging system 204, and in turn, the portablecharging device 108 being compact, lightweight, and cost-effective. The portable charging device 108 may be portable structure with the one or more wheels 606 attached to the bottom and the modular structure. The modularity is brought about by the ESS 206 of the portable charging device 108. The ESS 206 may be divided into a plurality of modules, with the storage capacity being increased or decreased as per the needs of the user 104. For example, in the case of an electrochemical media like lithium-chemistry batteries, each independent battery module may be attached to the main unit to increase an overall storage capacity. Additionally, the plurality of modules may hold batteries of different types, thereby leading to an increase in the number of use cases for the portable charging device 108.

[0164] The portable charging device 108, unlike some conventional portable charging stations, is truly portable, i.e., is not bound by any geographical range and operates independently of any centralized system. The design is compact and lightweight which enables the user 104 to removably couple and carry the device in the trunk 602 of the EV 102. The portable charging device 108 may be wheeled into a home or office cabin and charged from any power outlet and may then be wheeled to the EV 102 and placed inside the trunk 602, enabling the user 104 to carry a source of charge while traveling. The EV 102 may thus be charged anywhere, anytime without the need to travel to stationary charging stations. The portability also renders the power system 108 usable in remote locations for construction, mining, and other purposes that require electricity.

[0165] The portable charging device 108 of the present disclosure is specifically beneficial for the users who do not have the option to charge their EVs at home, either due to lack of parking space, grid capacity, or any other reason. The compact and portable charging device 108 may be charged from any 3 -pin wall socket or a solar array at home or office, providing the user 104 an easy way to charge their EVs without heavily depending on public charging infrastructure, especially for shorter intra-city rides. The cost of electricity at home being usually lower than a commercial charging station may render the portable charging device 108, a cost-effective option. Additionally, in an area with frequent power cuts, a backup solution like the portable charging device 108 may be instrumental for convenient driving, especially during unplanned trips. Further, the enhanced compactness and portability of the portable charging device 108, along with solar capability, may ensure that the portable charging device 108 may be used in remote areas with no grid infrastructure. This could be helpful for agricultural or military installations, during natural disasters, or rural or remote establishments.

[0166] Thus, by equipping each EV with an emergency backup power, EV users may do a quick power top-up anytime and anywhere, when faced with an emergency. This addedconvenience leads to lowered range anxiety, prevents unexpected breakdowns due to flat batteries, and reduces overall dependence on public charging infrastructure. Consequently, this leads to greater confidence in clean mobility, thereby boosting adoption of the EVs.

[0167] While various embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described, it will be clear that the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments only. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, as described in the claims.

Claims

CLAIMSWe claim:

1. A portable charging and powering device, comprising: an energy storage system (ESS); a charging system coupled to the ESS, wherein the charging system is operable in a plurality of modes of operation, including a Direct Current (DC)-ESS mode, an Alternating Current (AC)-ESS mode, an ESS-load mode, and an ESS bypass mode; and a control circuit coupled to the charging system, wherein the control circuit is configured to: select, from the plurality of modes of operation, a mode of operation for the charging system based on a charging source and a charging destination; and operate the charging system in the selected mode of operation to transfer power from the charging source to the charging destination.

2. The portable charging and powering device as claimed in claim 1, comprising: a plurality of switches; a bi-directional converter coupled to the plurality of switches; and an inverter / rectifier circuit couplable to the bi-directional converter using the plurality of switches.

3. The portable charging and powering device as claimed in claim 2, wherein in a case the charging source is a DC power source and the charging destination is the ESS, the control circuit is configured to: select the DC-ESS mode as the mode of operation; and operate the charging system in the DC-ESS mode, wherein in the DC-ESS mode: the DC power source is coupled to the ESS by way of the bi-directional converter, and the inverter / rectifier circuit is isolated from the bi-directional converter using the plurality of switches.

4. The portable charging and powering device as claimed in claim 3, wherein in the DC-ESS mode, the charging system is configured to transfer DC power from the DC power source to the ESS by way of the bi-directional converter.

5. The portable charging and powering device as claimed in claim 2, wherein in a case the charging source is an AC power source and the charging destination is the ESS, the control circuit is configured to: select the AC -ESS mode as the mode of operation; and operate the charging system in the AC -ESS mode, wherein in the AC -ESS mode: the inverter / rectifier circuit is coupled to the bi-directional converter using the plurality of switches, and the AC power source is coupled to the ESS by way of the bi-directional converter and the inverter / rectifier circuit.

6. The portable charging and powering device as claimed in claim 5, wherein in the AC -ESS mode, the charging system is configured to: receive AC power from the AC power source; convert the AC power to DC power by way of the inverter / rectifier circuit; and deliver the DC power to the ESS by way of the bi-directional converter.

7. The portable charging and powering device as claimed in claim 2, wherein in a case the charging source is the ESS and the charging destination is an external load, the control circuit is configured to: select the ESS-load mode as the mode of operation; and operate the charging system in the ESS-load mode.

8. The portable charging and powering device as claimed in claim 7, wherein in the ESS-load mode when the external load is an external DC load: the ESS is coupled to the external DC load by way of the bi-directional converter, and the inverter / rectifier circuit is isolated from the bi-directional converter using the plurality of switches.

9. The portable charging and powering device as claimed in claim 8, wherein in the ESS-load mode, the charging system is configured to transfer power from the ESS to the external load by way of the bi-directional converter.

10. The portable charging and powering device as claimed in claim 7, wherein in the ESS-load mode when the external load is an external AC load: the inverter / rectifier circuit is coupled to the bi-directional converter using the plurality of switches, and the external AC load is coupled to the ESS by way of the bi-directional converter and the inverter / rectifier circuit.

11. The portable charging and powering device as claimed in claim 10, wherein in the ESS- load mode, the charging system is configured to: receive DC power from the ESS by way of the bi-directional converter; convert the received DC power from the ESS to AC power by way of the inverter / rectifier circuit; and deliver the AC power to the external AC load.

12. The portable charging and powering device as claimed in claim 2, wherein in a case the charging source is an external power source and the charging destination is an external load, the control circuit is configured to: select the ESS bypass mode as the mode of operation; and operate the charging system in the ESS bypass mode, wherein in the ESS bypass mode, the ESS is isolated from the bi-directional converter.

13. The portable charging and powering device as claimed in claim 12, wherein in the ESS bypass mode, the charging system is configured to: receive power from the external power source; and deliver the received power to the external load, wherein the external load is one of an AC load or a DC load.

14. The portable charging and powering device as claimed in claim 13, wherein in the ESS bypass mode when the external load is the DC load: the inverter / rectifier circuit is isolated from the bi-directional converter using the plurality of switches, and the received power is delivered to the external load by way of the bi-directional converter.

15. The portable charging and powering device as claimed in claim 13, wherein in the ESS bypass mode when the external load is the AC load: the inverter / rectifier circuit is coupled to the bi-directional converter using the plurality of switches, and the received power is delivered to the external load by way of the bi-directional converter and the inverter / rectifier circuit.

16. The portable charging and powering device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the inverter / rectifier circuit is transformer-less.

17. The portable charging and powering device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ESS comprises: a docking mechanism; and a plurality of modules coupled to the docking mechanism, wherein one or more modules of the plurality of modules are removably coupled to the docking mechanism.

18. The portable charging and powering device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the portable charging and powering device comprises a housing having dimensions and a contour adapted for integration into a trunk of an electric vehicle (EV).

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