CN219086387U

CN219086387U - Device for power delivery

Info

Publication number: CN219086387U
Application number: CN201990001448.1U
Authority: CN
Inventors: 东方康; 李希文; 王李锋
Original assignee: Techtronic Cordless GP
Current assignee: Techtronic Cordless GP
Priority date: 2019-10-25
Filing date: 2019-10-25
Publication date: 2023-05-26
Anticipated expiration: 2029-10-25
Also published as: WO2021077391A1; AU2019471214A1; TW202135399A; EP4049348A4; EP4049348A1

Abstract

An apparatus for power delivery includes a port configured to variably receive an interface module of a plurality of interface modules. The interface modules of the plurality of interface modules include receptacles configured to interface with corresponding connector configurations. The port is configured to electrically couple a receptacle of an interface module received by the port to a power supply component of the power delivery device coupled to the port. The device also includes a detector configured to determine a receptacle type of a receptacle of the interface module received by the port. One or more characteristics of the power supply component are controlled based on the determined receptacle type to correspond to a power signal appropriate for the receptacle type of the interface module received by the port.

Description

Device for power delivery

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to a device for power delivery, such as a mobile power supply, and more particularly to a mobile power supply with a detectable socket.

Background

Electronic devices are common in our society. Devices such as telephones, video players, music players, global Positioning System (GPS) devices, etc. are often used in our daily lives. One requirement of many electronic devices is to charge them. For example, the electronic device may be equipped with a plug adapter that may be coupled to a wall outlet to charge the electronic device. However, people are not always near wall outlets when they need to charge the electronic device. Accordingly, portable battery powered devices, such as mobile power supplies, have been developed to allow users to insert electronic devices into the mobile power supplies to charge the electronic devices. There may be problems because different regions of the world (e.g., different countries) have differently configured plug adapters. Thus, a mobile power supply configured to operate with a plug adapter configured for use in the united states may not be usable with a plug adapter configured for use in europe, thereby limiting the usability of the mobile power supply.

Disclosure of Invention

The present disclosure describes apparatus, methods, and systems for providing power to electronic devices having plug adapters with different configurations (e.g., configured for use in different regions of the world, configured according to different standards, configured for different voltages and/or currents, etc.). For example, the present disclosure describes a mobile power supply configured to provide power to one or more electronic devices from one or more Alternating Current (AC) ports, one or more Direct Current (DC) ports, or both. The mobile power supply described herein is configured to: a socket type included in an interface module coupled to a port (e.g., an AC port and/or a DC port) of a mobile power source is detected, and one or more characteristics of a power supply component of the mobile power source are set based on the detected socket type. Setting one or more characteristics of the power supply component may set one or more characteristics of the power supplied to or received from the port. In operation according to some aspects, the mobile power supply may include a port configured to supply AC power, wherein characteristics such as peak voltage, maximum current, AC waveform, and/or frequency may be determined with respect to an AC signal provided by the AC port to the receptacle depending on an interface module mated with the port. For example, if the receptacle corresponds to a plug adapter configuration used in the united states, the characteristics of the AC signal may be set according to the standards of the united states. As another example, if the receptacle corresponds to a plug adapter configuration used in the united kingdom or europe, the characteristics of the AC signal may be set according to standards of the united kingdom or europe. Thus, a plug adapter inserted into a receptacle of this exemplary interface module will receive the appropriate AC signal without any input from the user. Additionally or alternatively, in operation according to some aspects, the mobile power supply may include a port configured to supply (or receive) DC power, wherein characteristics such as maximum and minimum voltages, maximum current, and/or allowable ripple with respect to the DC voltage provided by the DC port to the receptacle may be determined depending on an interface module mated with the port. Thus, a plug adapter inserted into a receptacle of this exemplary interface module will receive the appropriate DC signal without any input from the user.

Aspects of the mobile power supply include a detector configured to detect a receptacle type included in an interface module received by a port of the mobile power supply. The detector may, for example, include an electromechanical component such as one or more buttons and/or switches (collectively referred to herein as actuators) that is actuated by one or more features (e.g., members, bumps, detents, etc.) disposed on a mating or interface surface of an interface module that includes a particular type of receptacle. Additionally or alternatively, the detector may include one or more optical components, or another type of detector (e.g., a hall effect sensor, a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag, a proximity detector, etc.), as further described herein. The detector is configured to distinguish one type of socket (e.g., a U.S. socket) from another type of socket (e.g., a uk socket), or to distinguish one type of socket (e.g., a cigarette adapter) from another type of socket (e.g., a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port). The detector is further configured to provide a signal to the controller, and the controller configures a power component (such as an inverter or a DC converter) of the mobile power source such that an AC signal or a DC voltage having the identified characteristic is output. The AC signal and/or DC voltage may be generated from a DC voltage provided by one or more batteries of the mobile power source such that the mobile power source is portable and may be used to power one or more electronic devices when a user is not in proximity to the wall outlet.

In some embodiments, the receptacle may be removably coupled to the mobile power port such that if a user desires to switch from charging and/or powering a first device with a first plug adapter configuration to charging and/or powering a second device with a second plug adapter configuration, the user may remove the receptacle and replace it with another receptacle. Because the mobile power supply detects different types of receptacles, the mobile power supply will automatically adjust the characteristics of the output power signal based on the variations in the receptacles. This enables a user to charge an electronic device with a different plug adapter configuration without having to know how to program the mobile power supply. Thus, the mobile power supply may be used in different areas of the world simply by attaching corresponding sockets to the mobile power supply in order to charge and/or power the electronic device with an AC signal having suitable characteristics. Additionally or alternatively, a mobile power supply may be used to charge and/or power different electronic devices having different plug adapter configurations. Additionally or alternatively, a different plug adapter (e.g., an AC plug adapter or a DC plug adapter) may be used to charge the mobile power supply.

In a particular aspect, an apparatus configured for power delivery includes a port configured to variably receive an interface module of a plurality of interface modules. The interface modules of the plurality of interface modules include receptacles configured to interface with corresponding connector configurations. The port is configured to electrically couple a receptacle of an interface module received by the port to a power supply component of the power delivery device coupled to the port. The device further includes a detector configured to determine a receptacle type of a receptacle of the interface module received by the port. One or more characteristics of the power supply component are controlled based on the determined receptacle type to correspond to a power signal appropriate for the receptacle type of the interface module received by the port.

In some such aspects, the port comprises an Alternating Current (AC) port configured to output a first AC signal provided by the power supply component to the receptacle, or to receive a second AC signal from the receptacle and provide the second AC signal to the power supply component. Additionally or alternatively, the port includes a Direct Current (DC) port configured to output a first DC voltage provided by the power supply component to the receptacle, or to receive a second DC voltage from the receptacle and provide the second DC voltage to the power supply component.

In some such aspects, the receptacles of different ones of the plurality of interface modules correspond to different power signals. Additionally or alternatively, the one or more characteristics include a magnitude of an Alternating Current (AC) signal or a Direct Current (DC) voltage, a frequency of the AC signal, or both. Additionally or alternatively, the detector includes a mechanical component configured to be actuated by a feature extending from a back side of the interface module.

In some such aspects, the apparatus comprises: one or more batteries; an inverter coupled to the one or more batteries and configured to generate an Alternating Current (AC) signal based on a Direct Current (DC) voltage received from the one or more batteries; and a controller coupled to the inverter. The power supply component includes the one or more batteries and the inverter. The controller is configured to receive an input from the detector indicating the determined receptacle type. The controller is further configured to select a setting signal corresponding to the AC signal based on the determined jack type. The set signal indicates one or more characteristics of the AC signal. The controller is further configured to configure the inverter based on the set signal. In some such embodiments, the controller is configured to configure the inverter to generate an AC signal having a magnitude of one of: about 110 volts, 120 volts, 200 volts, 220 volts, 230 volts, and 240 volts. Additionally or alternatively, the controller is configured to configure the inverter to generate an AC signal having a frequency of 50 hertz or 60 hertz.

In some such aspects, the device further includes an input/output (I/O) device configured to display information corresponding to the one or more characteristics, a battery level of one or more batteries of the power delivery device, or both. Additionally or alternatively, the apparatus includes: one or more batteries; a Direct Current (DC) converter coupled to the one or more batteries and configured to adjust one or more characteristics of a DC voltage received from the one or more batteries; and one or more DC ports configured to receive the DC voltage from the DC converter. The power supply component includes the one or more batteries and the DC converter. The one or more DC ports include one of a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port, a firewire port, an e-SATA port, and a Thunderbolt 3 (Thunderbolt 3) port.

In another particular aspect, a method of operating a mobile power supply includes receiving an interface module at a port configured to variably receive an interface module of a plurality of interface modules. The interface module of the plurality of interface modules includes a receptacle configured to interface with a corresponding connector arrangement. The port electrically couples a receptacle of an interface module received by the port to a power supply component of the mobile power source. The method includes monitoring an interface module detector disposed in association with the port to obtain information indicative of a receptacle type of a receptacle of an interface module received by the port. The method also includes determining a receptacle type of a receptacle of the interface module received by the port based on the information of the interface module detector. The method further includes setting one or more characteristics of the power supply component based on the determined socket type.

In some such aspects, setting one or more characteristics of the power supply component includes setting a magnitude, a frequency, or both, of an Alternating Current (AC) signal generated by the power supply component and provided to the port. The port comprises an AC port. Additionally or alternatively, setting one or more characteristics of the power supply component includes setting a voltage level of a Direct Current (DC) voltage provided by the power supply component to the port. The port includes a DC port.

In some such embodiments, the method includes removing the interface module at the port and receiving a second interface module at the port that includes a second receptacle. The second receptacle is of a different type than the receptacle. In some such aspects, the method comprises: monitoring the interface module detector to obtain information indicative of a second socket type of a second socket of a second interface module received by the port; determining a second socket type of a second socket of a second interface module based on the information of the interface module detector; and changing one or more characteristics of the power supply component based on the determined second socket type.

In another particular aspect, an apparatus for power delivery includes an Alternating Current (AC) port configured to removably receive an interface module including a receptacle. The receptacle is configured to receive a corresponding connector configuration. The AC port is further configured to electrically couple the receptacle to an inverter of the power delivery device, receive an AC signal from the inverter, and provide the AC signal to a receptacle of an interface module received by the AC port. The device includes a detector configured to determine a receptacle type of a receptacle of an interface module received by the AC port and provide a signal indicative of the receptacle type. The device also includes a controller configured to receive the signal from the detector and generate a setting signal indicative of one or more characteristics of the AC signal based on the signal. The apparatus further includes an inverter coupled to the AC port and configured to generate the AC signal based on the set signal.

In some such aspects, the detector comprises a mechanical component, an optical component, a color detection component, a Radio Frequency Identifier (RFID) component, or a combination thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the AC port is configured to removably receive a plurality of interface modules including different receptacles. These different receptacles correspond to different characteristics of the AC signal. Additionally or alternatively, the device further includes one or more Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports configured to output a first Direct Current (DC) voltage, or to receive a second DC voltage to charge one or more batteries of the power delivery device.

The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the features and technical advantages of the present utility model in order that the detailed description of the utility model that follows may be better understood. Additional features and advantages of the utility model will be described hereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the utility model. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and specific embodiment disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for carrying out the same purposes of the present utility model. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the utility model as set forth in the appended claims. The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the utility model, both as to its organization and method of operation, together with further objects and advantages will be better understood from the following description when considered in connection with the accompanying figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that each of the figures is provided for the purpose of illustration and description only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of the present utility model.

Drawings

For a more complete understanding, reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a diagram of an example of a mobile power supply according to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an example of a system for providing power to an electronic device in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a diagram of a first example of an interface module and a housing according to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a diagram of a second example of an interface module and a housing according to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a diagram of an example of the interior of a mobile power supply according to aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a flow chart of an example of a method of operating a mobile power supply; and

fig. 7 is a block diagram of an example of a kit for a mobile power supply with detectable socket(s) according to aspects of the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

Specific embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the description, common features are denoted throughout the drawings by common reference numerals. As used herein, the various terms are used for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and are not intended to limit embodiments. For example, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "include" and "comprising" may be used interchangeably with "include" or "include". In addition, it will be understood that the term "wherein (where)" may be used interchangeably with "wherein (where)".

As used herein, ordinal terms such as structure, component, operation, etc. (e.g., "first," "second," "third," etc.) do not by themselves indicate any priority or order of the element relative to another element, but merely distinguish the element from another element having the same name (if the ordinal term is not used). The term "coupled" is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. The two items of "coupled" may be integral with each other. The phrase "and/or" means and or. For illustration, A, B and/or C include: a alone, B alone, a combination of C, A and B alone, a combination of a and C, a combination of B and C, or a combination of A, B and C. In other words, "and/or" is used as an inclusive or. Further, the phrase "A, B, C or a combination thereof" or "A, B, C or any combination thereof" includes: a alone, B alone, a combination of C, A and B alone, a combination of a and C, a combination of B and C, or a combination of A, B and C.

Further, a device or system configured in some manner is configured in at least that manner, but it may also be configured in ways other than those specifically described. One or more features of one aspect may be applied to another aspect even if not described or illustrated, unless the nature of the disclosure or the described embodiments is expressly prohibited.

Fig. 1 illustrates an example of a mobile power supply 100. The mobile power supply 100 may be used to charge and/or power one or more electronic devices, as further described herein. The mobile power supply 100 includes an interface module 102, an input/output (I/O) device 104, a first Direct Current (DC) port 106, a second DC port 108, and a third DC port 110. Although three DC ports are illustrated, in other embodiments, the mobile power supply 100 may include fewer than three or more than three DC ports. The mobile power supply 100 internally includes one or more batteries for storing charge and providing a Direct Current (DC) voltage that is used as an output to one or more electronic devices or converted to an Alternating Current (AC) signal, such as an AC power signal, for use as an output to an electronic device, as further described herein. The mobile power supply 100 may also include a controller and an inverter for converting the DC voltage to an AC signal, as further described herein.

The interface module 102 may be coupled to the mobile power supply 100, such as to a port (e.g., a socket), as further described herein. The interface module may have a structure that includes a receptacle 103 (e.g., one or more openings including one or more contacts) configured to couple to a plug adapter. For example, the interface module may include a faceplate that includes the receptacle 103, or another shape or structure that includes the receptacle 103. In some embodiments, the interface module 102 may snap into place in front of the housing containing the port. In some implementations, the interface module 102 may be permanently coupled to the port. In some other implementations, the interface module 102 can be removably (e.g., variably) coupled to the port. In some such embodiments, the interface module 102 may be removed by sliding the interface module 102 out of the housing. For example, the interface module 102 may have one or more features (e.g., notches, protrusions, etc.) along the sides that snap into place and lock the interface module 102 within the housing, but may be squeezed by a user to unlock the interface module 102 and enable the interface module 102 to slide out of the housing. In other embodiments, the interface module 102 may be attached with other devices, such as screws.

The receptacle 103 includes one or more openings for receiving a plug adapter. In the particular embodiment illustrated in fig. 1, the receptacle 103 may include a first opening 112, a second opening 114, and a third opening 116 (e.g., a ground opening). The receptacle 103 is configured for operation with a plug adapter according to standards in a particular region. For example, the receptacle 103 may have an opening configured according to the type of plug adapter used in the united states (e.g., conforming to the standard used in the united states). If a user desires to plug in an electronic device of the type having a plug adapter used in the united states, the user may couple the plug to the receptacle 103 and the mobile power supply 100 may provide power to the electronic device, as described further herein. Alternatively, power may be provided to the mobile power supply 100 via the outlet 103 to charge one or more batteries.

However, if the user desires to plug in an electronic device having a plug adapter type other than that used in the united states, such as the plug type used in the united kingdom (and different from the plug type used in the united states), the interface module 102 may be removed and replaced with a different interface module. In particular, the interface module 102 may be removed and replaced with an interface module that includes a receptacle configured according to the type of plug adapter used in europe. As further described herein, the mobile power supply 100 includes a detector, such as a switch, a button, or another type of electromechanical detector, that detects which type of receptacle is coupled to the mobile power supply 100 and provides a signal to a controller within the mobile power supply 100 to control the characteristics (e.g., voltage and frequency) of the signal provided by the port to the receptacle. In this way, 110 volt (V), 60 hertz (Hz) power may be provided to sockets configured according to the united states standards, and 220V, 50Hz power may be provided to sockets configured according to the british standards.

In some embodiments, the port comprises an AC port. For example, the port may be an AC jack configured to provide an AC signal to the receptacle 103 or receive an AC signal from the receptacle 103. As described above, the interface module 102 may include a receptacle 103 corresponding to an AC plug adapter (such as an AC plug adapter used in a particular area). In some embodiments, the ports comprise DC ports. For example, the port may be a DC outlet configured to provide a DC voltage to the outlet 103 or to receive a DC voltage from the outlet 103. In such embodiments, the receptacle 103 may comprise a DC receptacle, such as a cigarette adapter receptacle, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) adapter receptacle, or another type of DC receptacle. In some implementations, the mobile power supply 100 may include both a configurable AC port and a configurable DC port (e.g., a port configured to variably accept a variety of interface modules).

The I/O device 104 may be configured to receive user input and/or display information of the mobile power supply 100 to a user. In some implementations, the I/O device 104 includes a display device, such as a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) screen or an Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) screen, configured to display characteristics of power provided or received by the mobile power supply 100, battery power of the mobile power supply 100, and/or other information. Additionally or alternatively, the I/O device 104 may include or correspond to one or more Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) configured to output light to indicate a mode of operation of the mobile power supply 100 (e.g., an output or received voltage), a battery level of the mobile power supply 100, or other information.

The DC ports 106 to 110 may be configured to output DC current to a connected electronic device or to receive DC current to charge one or more batteries of the mobile power supply 100. The DC ports 106-110 may be fixed DC ports (e.g., not configured to be variably coupled to the interface module). In some embodiments, the DC ports 106-110 are Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports, firewire ports, e-SATA ports, lightning 3 ports, or combinations thereof. As ase:Sub>A non-limiting example, the first DC port 106 and the second DC port 108 may be USB-ase:Sub>A ports, and the third DC port 110 may be ase:Sub>A USB-C port. The electronic device may be plugged into the DC ports 106-110 to receive power to charge and/or power the electronic device. Additionally or alternatively, a power source (such as a desktop computer plugged into a wall outlet) may be plugged into one of the DC ports 106-110 to provide power to charge one or more batteries of the mobile power source 100.

In some implementations, the mobile power supply 100 may also include a power port configured to receive power from a power adapter. For example, a plug adapter may be plugged into a wall outlet and may provide power to the mobile power supply 100 to charge one or more batteries included in the mobile power supply 100. In other embodiments, the one or more batteries may be charged by inserting a power source into one of the outlet DC ports 106-110 or into the outlet 103.

During operation of the mobile power supply 100, the mobile power supply 100 may be charged to be used as a portable power supply. For example, a power source may be coupled to one of the DC ports 106 to 110 to charge one or more batteries included in the mobile power source 100. Coupling the mobile power supply 100 to the power supply in this manner may be implemented using a USB adapter that couples the mobile power supply 100 to the power supply. Additionally or alternatively, a power supply may be coupled to the mobile power supply 100 via the interface module 102. For example, if the port comprises an AC port, a two-terminal plug adapter may be used to couple the interface module 102 to a wall outlet to charge one or more batteries included in the mobile power supply 100. If the port is a DC port, a power source may be coupled to the receptacle 103 to charge one or more batteries of the mobile power source 100. Additionally or alternatively, the mobile power supply 100 may include an additional port configured to be coupled to a wall outlet through a plug adapter similar to a computer power cord. In such embodiments, the plug adapter may be configured to provide power to the mobile power supply 100 to charge one or more batteries.

After the one or more batteries are charged, the mobile power supply 100 may be used to provide power to the one or more electronic devices. For example, the mobile power supply 100 may provide a DC voltage, an AC signal, or both to one or more electronic devices to power the one or more electronic devices. To illustrate, the mobile power supply 100 may include a DC converter or controller to convert a DC voltage output by one or more batteries to a voltage level compatible with the DC ports 106-110. For example, as ase:Sub>A non-limiting example, the DC converter may convert the DC voltage to ase:Sub>A USB-ase:Sub>A format or ase:Sub>A USB-C format. The electronic device may be coupled to the DC ports 106 to 110 to receive a DC voltage from the mobile power supply 100 to charge and/or power the electronic device.

In addition, the mobile power supply 100 may be configured to provide a power signal to a port (e.g., a socket) to charge and/or power an electronic device. In some embodiments, the ports include AC ports, and the mobile power supply 100 is configured to provide AC signals to charge and/or power the electronic device. To illustrate, a user may determine the type of plug adapter that they wish to use with a charged electronic device (e.g., a plug adapter according to U.S. standards, a plug adapter according to British standards, etc.). Based on the selected plug adapter type, the user may plug the corresponding interface module 102 into the mobile power supply 100. For example, a user may select an interface module 102 that includes a receptacle 103 that includes an opening corresponding to the type of plug adapter. Once the interface module 102 is secured into the housing of the mobile power supply 100, a detector within the housing may detect which particular receptacle is present and may send a signal to a controller to control an inverter within the mobile power supply 100 to output an AC signal having the appropriate magnitude (e.g., voltage), the appropriate frequency.

To illustrate, the mobile power supply 100 may be compatible with two removable interface modules: a first removable interface module comprising a first receptacle having an opening according to a standard used in the united states; and a second removable interface module comprising a second receptacle having an opening according to a standard used in europe. The detector may include a slot in the housing having an actuator that when actuated causes a first signal to be output and when unactuated causes a second signal to be output. The first removable interface module may have a feature (e.g., a member, a ridge, a detent, etc.) on a back side of the removable interface module that fits in the slot and pushes against the actuator, causing the first signal to be output. As further described herein, the output of the first signal may cause the inverter to output an AC signal of approximately 120V, 60Hz, which complies with U.S. standards. The second removable interface module has no feature on the back surface such that it does not press against the actuator when the second removable interface module is installed, thereby enabling the output of the second signal. As further described herein, the output of the second signal may cause the inverter to output an AC signal of about 220V, 50Hz, which meets uk standards. Although two types of removable interface modules are described, in other embodiments, the mobile power supply 100 may be configured to work with more than two interface modules. For example, the housing may include more than one slot with more than one actuator, and different removable interface modules may have different numbers of features on the back (each removable interface module having different numbers/configurations) so that the detector can determine which removable interface module is currently installed. The corresponding voltage of the corresponding frequency may be appropriately output according to standards of other countries, such as european countries, australia, asia, south america or africa. Alternatively, the detector may include one or more optical components configured to determine the socket type of the interface module 102, one or more color sensors configured to determine the socket type of the interface module 102, or another type of detector, such as an RFID detector. For example, different interface modules may have different RFID tags that are detected by the detector and used to distinguish between the different interface modules. Additionally or alternatively, the interface modules may include actuators and RFID tags such that important interface modules are identified by the RFID tags and other interface modules are identified by one or more actuators.

In some other embodiments, the port comprises a DC port, and the mobile power supply 100 is configured to provide a DC voltage to the outlet 103 via the port to charge and/or power the electronic device. The detector may detect the type of socket installed and may send a signal to a controller for controlling one or more characteristics, such as minimum voltage, maximum current, and/or allowable ripple. For example, based on the signal from the detector, the controller may send one or more control signals to a DC converter in the mobile power supply 100 to control one or more characteristics of the DC voltage output by the port.

Thus, fig. 1 illustrates a mobile power supply 100 configured to provide a DC voltage and/or an AC signal to charge or power one or more electronic devices. Different sockets may be used for different plug adapters (according to different national standards, different plug adapters for different devices, etc.), and the detector within the mobile power supply 100 may be such that an appropriate power signal of an appropriate magnitude (e.g., voltage) and/or frequency is output. In this manner, a user may plug into a desired receptacle and plug in an electronic device, and the mobile power supply 100 will provide the appropriate power signal to charge and/or power the electronic device without requiring user input.

Fig. 2 illustrates an example of a system 200 for providing power to an electronic device. In some implementations, the system 200 may include or correspond to the mobile power supply 100 of fig. 1. The system 200 includes a controller 202, an inverter 204, a battery 206, an I/O device 208, a DC converter 210, a first DC port 212, a second DC port 214, an AC port 216 (e.g., a socket), a detector 218, and in some embodiments, a receptacle 220 and a rectifier 205. In some implementations, the inverter 204, rectifier 205, battery 206, and DC converter 210 may be included in (or referred to as) the power supply component 203 of the system 200. The power supply component 203 may be configured to control power signals provided to, or received from, a port, such as the AC port 216, as described further herein.

The controller 202 is configured to execute instructions stored in memory to perform the operations described herein. For example, the controller 202 may be configured to receive a signal from the detector 218 indicating a type of receptacle coupled to the AC port 216, and based on this signal, the controller 202 may identify one or more characteristics of the AC signal to be output by the inverter 204. The one or more characteristics may be selected and/or determined based on the signal from the detector 218. The controller 202 may be further configured to generate a setting signal indicative of the one or more characteristics and send the setting signal to the inverter 204 to configure the inverter 204 such that the AC signal output by the inverter 204 has the one or more characteristics. In some implementations, the controller 202 may be a controller for the entire system 200 (e.g., a mobile power supply). In other implementations, the controller 202 may be a controller for the inverter 204 and may be coupled to or included in the inverter 204.

The inverter 204 is configured to receive the DC voltage from the battery 206 and generate an AC signal, such as an AC power signal, based on the DC voltage and a setting signal from the controller 202. For example, the inverter 204 may be configured to convert the DC voltage to an AC signal. Inverter 204 may include a transformer or other circuitry configured to convert a DC voltage to an AC signal. In some implementations, the inverter 204 may have one or more configurable components that enable the inverter 204 to output an AC signal having particular characteristics (such as magnitude and/or frequency, etc.). For example, the inverter 204 may include a capacitor bank, an adjustable resistor, or other configurable components. The magnitude may correspond to the voltage of the signal. The voltage may be a peak voltage, an average voltage, a Root Mean Square (RMS) voltage, or any other type of voltage. In some other implementations, the inverter 204 may be configured to generate two AC outputs: a first AC output having a magnitude in the range of about 110V to 120V at 60Hz, and a second AC output having a magnitude in the range of about 200V to 240V at 50 Hz. For example, the first AC signal may be obtained via a first tap of the coil and the second AC signal may be obtained via a second tap of the coil. In such an embodiment, the inverter 204 may include a switch coupling one of the AC outputs to an output port of the inverter 204. The switch may be operated based on a setting signal received from the controller 202.

The rectifier 205 may be configured to receive an AC signal from the AC port 216 when power is plugged into the receptacle 220. The rectifier 205 is configured to convert the AC signal to a DC voltage and provide the DC voltage to the battery 206 to charge the battery 206. In some implementations, the system 200 may further include a current detector coupled to the AC port 216 for disabling the inverter 204 when an AC signal is received via the AC port 216 (and preventing a power signal from being provided to the AC port 216 when the rectifier 205 converts the received AC signal to a DC voltage).

The battery 206 is configured to store charge and provide a DC voltage to the inverter 204, the I/O device 208, and the DC converter 210. Although one battery is mentioned, the battery 206 may include one or more batteries. For example, the battery 206 may include a battery pack.

The I/O device 208 is configured to receive user input and/or output information to a user. For example, the I/O device 208 may include a display configured to output information corresponding to characteristics of the AC signal output by the inverter 204, a charge amount of the battery 206, other information, or a combination thereof. As another example, the I/O device 208 may include one or more LEDs configured to indicate characteristics of the AC signal output by the inverter 204, a charge amount of the battery 206, other information, or a combination thereof. The I/O device 208 may be configured to receive a DC voltage from the battery 206 to perform the functions of the I/O device 208.

The DC converter 210 is configured to receive a DC voltage from the battery 206 and convert (e.g., adjust one or more characteristics thereof) the DC voltage to one or more voltages to be output via the first DC port 212 and the second DC port 214. For example, the DC converter 210 may include a regulator, voltage divider, controller, one or more resistors, other circuitry, or a combination thereof, configured to vary the magnitude of the DC voltage received from the battery 206 and provided to the first DC port 212 and the second DC port 214.

The first DC port 212 and the second DC port 214 are configured to output a DC voltage to an electronic device coupled to the first DC port 212 and/or the second DC port 214. The first DC port 212 and the second DC port 214 may be fixed DC ports (e.g., ports that are not configured to variably receive an interface module). In some embodiments, the first DC port 212 and the second DC port 214 may be the same type of port. In other embodiments, the first DC port 212 and the second DC port 214 may be different types of DC ports. In some implementations, the first DC port 212 is configured to output a first DC voltage output and the second DC port 214 is configured to output a second DC voltage output that is different from the first DC voltage output. In such an embodiment, the first DC voltage output and the second DC voltage output are different from the DC voltage provided by the battery 206. The first DC port 212, the second DC port 214, or both, may include one of a USB port, a firewire port, a SATA port, and a lightning 3 port. In some embodiments, the first DC port 212 comprises ase:Sub>A USB-ase:Sub>A port and the second DC port 214 comprises ase:Sub>A USB-C port. In some such embodiments, the DC converter 210 may be configured to convert the DC voltage received from the battery 206 to a maximum voltage of about 5V, a power of about 10 watts, and a current of about 2.4 amps (amps), and a maximum voltage of about 20V, a power of about 65 watts, and a current of about 3.25 amps, of the second DC port 214, for the first DC port 212.

The AC port 216 (e.g., a jack) is configured to output an AC signal received from the inverter 204. The receptacle 220 may be coupled to the AC port 216, and the AC port 216 may output an AC signal to the receptacle 220. The receptacle 220 may be configured to receive a particular type of plug adapter from an electronic device and provide an AC signal to the electronic device to charge and/or power the electronic device. The receptacle 220 may have a particular type that corresponds to a particular type of plug adapter that the receptacle 220 is configured to receive. For example, the receptacle 220 may correspond to a standard for a particular region (e.g., country) of the world. In some implementations, the AC port 216 is removably coupled to the receptacle 220 such that the receptacle 220 is removable. For example, the receptacle 220 may be removed and replaced with a different receptacle configured to receive a different type of plug adapter.

The detector 218 is configured to determine the socket type of the socket 220. In some implementations, the detector 218 may include an electromechanical component within a slot of a housing of the system 200, and the mechanical component is configured to be actuated by inserting a feature on a back side of an interface module including the receptacle 220 into the slot. The electromechanical component may comprise a button, a switch or another component. Actuation of the electromechanical component may cause the detector 218 to output a signal to the controller 202 indicating that a first type of receptacle is detected. If the interface module does not have this feature, the electromechanical component is not actuated, which may send a second signal to the controller 202 indicating that a second type of receptacle is detected. In other embodiments, the electromechanical component may not be located within the slot. For example, a plurality of buttons may be disposed on a back side of a housing configured to receive the interface module, and the interface module may have one or more openings to prevent actuation of some of the buttons. Actuation of a button in a particular configuration may indicate which receptacle type corresponds to receptacle 220, which may be communicated to controller 202 by a signal. In other embodiments, the detector 218 may include optical components. For example, some types of receptacles may have a reflector extending from the back of the receptacle, and detecting a reflection generated by the reflector may indicate the receptacle type. In some other implementations, the detector 218 may include a color detector. For example, the back side of each different type of receptacle may include a portion having a corresponding color, and detecting the corresponding color may indicate detecting the corresponding receptacle type. In other implementations, the various interface modules may have different RFID tags, and the detector 218 may determine which type of receptacle is present based on the detected RFID tags. In other implementations, the detector 218 may include other types of detectors.

In some implementations, the detector 218 is configured to output a first signal when a first type of receptacle is detected, a second signal when a second type of receptacle is detected, and a third signal when no receptacle is detected. For example, the detector 218 may include a mechanical component that is actuated by features of some of the receptacles (as further described with reference to fig. 3) to cause the emission of the first signal. A second signal may be emitted when the receptacle is detected and the mechanical component is not actuated. For example, the detector 218 may include a second mechanical component configured to be actuated by the coupling of the receptacle to the AC port 216 and may emit a second signal when the first mechanical component is not actuated and the second mechanical component is actuated. Additionally, in such embodiments, when the second mechanical component is not actuated, a third signal may be transmitted to indicate that no receptacle is coupled to the AC port 216 and that no AC signal needs to be output by the AC port 216.

Although described as an AC port 216, in other embodiments, the system 200 may additionally or alternatively include a DC port configured to variably receive an interface module. In such an embodiment, the detector 218 may similarly generate a signal to the controller 202 to indicate the socket type of the socket 220. Additionally, in such embodiments, the controller 202 may generate and send a setting signal to the DC converter 210 (or another DC converter coupled to the DC port) to adjust one or more characteristics of the DC voltage provided by the DC port. Thus, the DC port can output an appropriate DC voltage without input from a user.

Although a single configurable port is shown in fig. 2, such a display is not limiting. In other embodiments, the system 200 may include multiple configurable ports. For example, the system 200 may include more than one AC port, each with a corresponding detector. Additionally or alternatively, the system 200 may include one or more configurable DC ports, each having a corresponding detector. As used herein, the term "configurable port" refers to a port configured to be variably coupled to one or more interface modules.

During operation of the system 200, the AC port 216 may be coupled to an interface module that includes a receptacle 220. The detector 218 may detect the socket type of the socket 220. For example, a feature on the back of the interface module may actuate an electromechanical component of the detector 218 to indicate that the receptacle 220 has a first receptacle type, as further described with reference to fig. 3. The detector 218 may send a signal to the controller 202 indicating the jack type of the jack 220.

The controller 202 may receive the signal from the detector 218, select (e.g., identify or determine) a characteristic of the AC signal, and configure the inverter 204 to output an AC signal having a characteristic corresponding to the receptacle type. For example, the controller 202 may send one or more control signals to the inverter 204 to configure the inverter 204 to output an AC signal having a particular magnitude (e.g., voltage) and/or a particular frequency. The control signal may cause one or more configurable portions of inverter 204 to be configured in a manner such that the AC signal has a particular magnitude and/or a particular frequency. Alternatively, the control signal may cause the switch to select a particular AC signal to be output by the inverter 204, the particular AC signal having a particular magnitude and/or frequency. The AC signal may be provided from the inverter 204 to the receptacle 220 via the AC port 216 to charge the electronic device plugged into the receptacle 220.

In addition, a DC voltage may be provided from the battery 206 to the first DC port 212 and/or the second DC port 214 via the DC converter 210. The DC converter 210 may convert the DC voltage from the battery 206 to a level suitable for output by the first DC port 212 and/or the second DC port 214. The first DC port 212 and/or the second DC port 214 (e.g., a USB port, as a non-limiting example) may provide a DC voltage to charge the electronic device(s) inserted into the first DC port 212 and/or the second DC port 214.

The I/O device 208 may output information related to the AC signal output by the AC port 216, information related to the battery 206, other information, or a combination thereof. For example, the I/O device 208 may include a display that displays the magnitude (e.g., voltage) and/or frequency of the AC signal output by the AC port 216, the socket type of the socket 220, the charge of the battery 206, other information, or a combination thereof. This information may allow the user to know what type of outlet is plugged into AC port 216, what the characteristics of the AC signal provided by the outlet are, how much battery charge is left in system 200, or other information useful to the user.

Thus, fig. 2 depicts a system 200 that acts as a mobile power source for charging and/or powering electronic devices. The electronic device may be charged through the first DC port 212 and/or the second DC port 214, the AC port 216, another port (e.g., a power port), or a combination thereof. In addition, the system 200 is configured to detect a type of receptacle coupled to the AC port 216 such that the inverter 204 may be configured to output an AC signal having characteristics suitable for the receptacle. For example, if a receptacle corresponding to a plug adapter used in the united states is coupled to AC port 216, detector 218 detects the receptacle type and based on this information, controller 202 configures inverter 204 to output an AC signal having a size and frequency corresponding to the standard used in the united states. Additionally or alternatively, a DC port may be coupled to one or more interface modules, and a corresponding detector may provide a signal to the controller 202 to cause the controller 202 to configure the DC converter 210 to cause an appropriate DC voltage to be output. In this way, the system 200 may output a signal suitable for coupling to a receptacle of the AC port 216 without requiring input from a user.

Fig. 3 illustrates a first example of an interface module 300 and a housing 310. The interface module 300 is configured to be coupled to the housing 310 such that a plug adapter coupled to a receptacle of the interface module 300 receives an AC signal (or provides an AC signal to a mobile power source). The housing 310 may be a small housing that attaches to the rest of the housing of a mobile power source, such as the mobile power source 100.

As shown in fig. 3, the interface module 300 may be inserted into the housing 310. Inserting the interface module 300 may cause the interface module 300 to "snap" into place and lock into the housing 310. In some embodiments, a user may squeeze the sides of interface module 300 to unlock interface module 300 and remove it from housing 310. In some other embodiments, buttons or other features may be included in interface module 300 that enable interface module 300 to be detached from housing 310.

As described with reference to fig. 1, the receptacle of the interface module 300 includes one or more openings configured to receive pins of a plug adapter. In the example illustrated in fig. 3, the receptacle is configured to receive a plug adapter configured according to the standards of the united states. For example, the interface module 300 may include one or more openings configured to receive one or more blade pins. As described with reference to fig. 4, other sockets may be configured to receive other types of pins corresponding to configurations according to other standards.

As shown in the rear view, the interface module 300 includes one or more electrical connectors configured to electrically couple a plug adapter coupled to a receptacle of the interface module 300 to an AC port (e.g., a socket) of a mobile power source, such as the mobile power source 100. For example, the interface module 300 may include a first electrical connector 302 and a second electrical connector 304. The electrical connectors 302-304 may be configured to couple to the opening to complete a circuit to the mobile power source.

As shown in fig. 3, the interface module 300 also includes features 306 coupled or attached to (e.g., protruding from) the back side of the interface module 300. For example, feature 306 may be a notch, tab, protrusion, or another feature extending from the back of interface module 300. As a non-limiting example, feature 306 may be plastic or other material such as metal. Feature 306 indicates that interface module 300 is of a particular type, such as a type according to standards used in the united states. The feature 306 may be configured to be inserted into a slot in the housing 310 that acts as a detector for detecting the type of receptacle.

As shown in front view, the housing 310 includes one or more openings configured to receive and couple the electrical connector to a mobile power source. For example, the housing 310 may include a first opening 312 and a second opening 314. The openings 312-314 may be metallized and configured to complete a circuit between the interface module 300 and the mobile power source. In the example of fig. 3, the first opening 312 may be configured to receive the first electrical connector 302 and the second opening 314 may be configured to receive the second electrical connector 304. When the

electrical connectors

302 and 304 are received in the openings 312-314, an electrical circuit may be formed between the interface module 300 and a mobile power source (e.g., one or more batteries of the mobile power source).

As shown in fig. 3, the housing 310 also includes a slot 316. The slot 316 may include a mechanical component such as a notch, button, switch, or another electromechanical element that engages when the feature 306 is received within the slot 316. For example, insertion of feature 306 into slot 316 may cause a button to be pressed that acts as a detector (e.g., detector 218 of fig. 2) and sends a first signal to a controller to control the magnitude (e.g., voltage) and/or frequency of an AC signal provided to an AC port of a mobile power supply. In addition, if a receptacle without feature 306 is inserted into housing 310, the button (or other mechanical element) is not pressed, causing a second signal to be sent to the controller to control the magnitude and/or frequency of the AC signal provided to the AC port of the mobile power supply. In this manner, the slot 316 (and mechanical elements therein) may act as a detector for detecting (e.g., determining) which type of receptacle is currently being inserted within the housing 310.

The housing 310 also includes an opening 318. For example, the opening 318 may be a substantially square opening in the upper right of the housing 310. Openings 318 may be included to enable insertion of one or more wires into components within housing 310, such as mechanical elements and/or openings 312-314 (or components coupled to openings 312-314). As shown in the rear view, the housing 310 also includes a screw 320. Screw 320 may be configured to attach a back surface (e.g., a portion) to housing 310. In some embodiments, the back surface may be translucent to enable viewing of components within the housing 310.

Fig. 4 illustrates a second example of an interface module 400 and a housing 410. The interface module 400 is configured to be coupled to the housing 410 such that a plug adapter coupled to a receptacle of the interface module 400 receives an AC signal.

The interface module 400 is similar to the interface module 300 of fig. 3. However, in the example illustrated in fig. 4, the receptacle of the interface module 400 is configured to receive a plug adapter configured according to british standards. For example, the receptacle of the interface module 400 may include one or more openings configured to receive one or more cylindrical pins.

As shown in the rear view, the interface module 400 includes one or more electrical connectors configured to electrically couple a plug adapter coupled to the interface module 400 to an AC port of a mobile power source (such as the mobile power source 100). For example, the interface module 400 may include a first electrical connector 402 and a second electrical connector 404. The electrical connectors 402-404 may be configured to couple to the opening to complete a circuit to the mobile power source. However, unlike interface module 300 of fig. 3, interface module 400 does not include features extending from the back of interface module 400. The lack of features may identify the interface module 400 as a second type of socket (e.g., a socket configured according to british standards).

Housing 410 is similar to housing 310 of fig. 3. For example, housing 410 includes a first opening 412, a second opening 414, a slot 416 (with mechanical components therein), an opening 418, and a screw 420, which may be similar to first opening 312, second opening 314, slot 316, opening 318, and screw 320 of housing 310. However, in the example of fig. 4, because the interface module 400 does not include features, there are no features to be inserted into the slot 416. Thus, the mechanical component is not enabled (e.g., actuated) and a second signal is sent to the inverter controller to cause the AC current output by the AC port to be at an appropriate voltage and frequency, such as 220V and 50Hz.

Although fig. 3-4 illustrate two types of interface modules (e.g., one having features and the other not having corresponding features), in other embodiments, more than two types of interface modules are possible. For example, the

housings

310 and 410 may include a plurality of slots, and some receptacles may include a plurality of features. The number and configuration of features may identify which type of receptacle is present, and thus the size (e.g., voltage) and frequency of the AC signal used. In other embodiments, other types of detectors may be used. For example, instead of having a slot that receives a feature, the housing may have one or more buttons attached to the back wall, and the receptacle may have tabs that press against the buttons (or openings that allow the buttons to remain unpressed) in various positions. The configuration of the pressed (or not pressed) button may indicate what type of receptacle is currently plugged in. In other examples, the detector may include one or more optical components, one or more color detection components, one or more RFID components, or another type of detector, as non-limiting examples. Thus, the detector of the mobile power supply may have other configurations than the described slots and mechanical components. In addition, while an AC outlet is described, in other embodiments, an interface module with a DC outlet may be coupled to a DC port of a mobile power source to enable the output of an appropriate DC voltage without requiring input by a user.

Fig. 5 shows an example of the inside of the mobile power supply 500. In some embodiments, the mobile power supply 500 may include or correspond to the mobile power supply 100 of fig. 1. The mobile power supply 500 includes an interface module 502, an I/O device 504, one or more first DC ports 506, a second DC port 508, one or more heat sinks 510, a fan 512, one or more batteries 514, and an AC inverter substrate 516. In some embodiments, the mobile power supply 500 has a particular size. For example, the width of the mobile power supply 500 may be about 125 millimeters (mm), the length of the mobile power supply 500 may be about 155mm, and the height of the mobile power supply 500 may be about 35mm. In some embodiments, the mobile power supply 500 has other dimensions.

The interface module 502 may be configured to couple to a housing of the mobile power supply 500 and enable coupling to a particular type of plug adapter. For example, interface module 502 may include or correspond to interface module 102 of fig. 1, interface module 300 of fig. 3, or interface module 400 of fig. 4. In some implementations, when a different plug adapter type is to be used, the interface module 502 may be removed and replaced with a different type of interface module.

I/O devices 504 may be configured to receive user input and/or to display information to a user. For example, the I/O device 504 may include a display, such as an Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) display. The I/O device 504 may be configured to output information such as the voltage and/or frequency of the AC current output by the mobile power supply 500, the type of interface module 502, the battery level of the mobile power supply 500, other information, or a combination thereof.

The one or more first DC ports 506 and second DC ports 508 may be configured to output DC current to charge and/or power one or more electronic devices, or to receive DC current to charge one or more batteries 514. In some implementations, the one or more first DC ports 506 and second DC ports 508 may include USB ports. For example, the one or more first DC ports 506 may include two USB-ase:Sub>A ports, and the second DC port 508 may include ase:Sub>A USB-C port.

One or more heat sinks 510 may be configured to dissipate heat (e.g., reduce heat) for components of the mobile power supply 500. For example, one or more of the heat sinks 510 may be metallic and may be configured to conduct heat away from components of the mobile power supply 500 (such as circuitry, processors, etc.). Additionally, the fan 512 may be configured to cool at least a portion of the mobile power supply 500. For example, the fan 512 may be configured to reduce the temperature of circuitry, processors, etc. of the mobile power supply 500.

One or more batteries 514 may be configured to store electrical charge. For example, when the mobile power supply 500 is coupled to a power source, the one or more batteries 514 may receive and store electrical charge (e.g., power). The one or more batteries may also be configured to provide an output current to the electronic device(s) inserted (e.g., coupled) into the mobile power supply 500, as described with reference to fig. 1 and 2. In some embodiments, one or more batteries 514 are glued to the housing of the mobile power supply 500 to hold the one or more batteries 514 in place.

AC inverter substrate 516 may include a circuit board that includes an inverter (or other circuitry configured to perform the operation of the inverter). The inverter may be configured to generate an AC signal based on the DC voltage received from the one or more batteries 514. In some implementations, the AC inverter substrate 516 is configured to a maximum of 450 watts and is configured to dual voltage output: about 110V to 120V and about 220V to 240V. In some embodiments, AC inverter substrate 516 is positioned proximate to one or more heat sinks 510 and fans 512 in order to reduce the temperature of AC inverter substrate 516 during operation.

Accordingly, fig. 5 depicts the internal structure of the mobile power supply 500. Similar to the mobile power supply 100, the mobile power supply 500 may include additional components, such as a detector configured to determine the type of outlet present. After detecting the socket type, the controller may configure the inverter (e.g., coupled to the AC inverter substrate 516) to output an AC signal having characteristics suitable for the socket type, or may configure the DC converter to output a DC voltage having characteristics suitable for the socket type. In this manner, the mobile power supply 500 may provide appropriate power signals via the interface module 502 to the electronic devices coupled to the interface module 502.

Fig. 6 illustrates an example of a method 600 of mobile power operation. The method 600 may be performed by the mobile power supply 100, the system 200, or the mobile power supply 500, as non-limiting examples.

The method 600 includes, at step 602, receiving an interface module at a port configured to variably receive an interface module of a plurality of interface modules. The interface module of the plurality of interface modules includes a receptacle configured to interface with a corresponding connector arrangement. The port electrically couples a receptacle of an interface module received by the port to a power supply component of the mobile power source. For example, an interface module 102 including a receptacle 103 may be received at a port of the mobile power supply 100.

The method 600 includes, at step 604, monitoring an interface module detector disposed in association with the port to obtain information indicative of a receptacle type of a receptacle of an interface module received by the port. For example, the detector of the mobile power supply 100 may be monitored to obtain information indicating the socket type of the socket 103.

The method 600 further includes determining a receptacle type of a receptacle of an interface module received by the port based on information of the interface module detector at step 606. For example, a detector of the mobile power supply 100 may determine the socket type of the socket 103 and provide information, such as a signal, indicative of the socket type.

The method 600 further includes, at step 608, setting one or more characteristics of the power supply component based on the determined receptacle type. For example, a controller within the mobile power supply 100 may set one or more characteristics of the power supply components (e.g., inverter, DC converter, one or more batteries, etc.) based on the determined receptacle type.

In some implementations, setting one or more characteristics of the power supply component includes setting a magnitude, a frequency, or both, of an Alternating Current (AC) signal generated by the power supply component and provided to the port. The port comprises an AC port. For example, the controller of the mobile power supply 100 may set the magnitude (e.g., voltage) and/or frequency of an AC signal generated by the inverter and provided to the AC port of the mobile power supply 100. Additionally or alternatively, setting one or more characteristics of the power supply component includes setting a voltage level of a Direct Current (DC) voltage provided by the power supply component to the port. The port includes a DC port. For example, the controller of the mobile power supply 100 may configure the DC converter of the mobile power supply 100 to output a specific DC voltage to the DC port.

In some implementations, the method 600 includes removing the interface module at the port and receiving a second interface module including a second receptacle at the port. The second receptacle is of a different type than the receptacle. For example, the interface module 102 may be removed and replaced with a different type of receptacle. In some such embodiments, the method 600 further comprises: monitoring the interface module detector to obtain information indicative of a second socket type of a second socket of a second interface module received by the port; determining a second socket type of a second socket of a second interface module based on information of the interface module detector; and changing one or more characteristics of the power supply component based on the determined second socket type. For example, the magnitude and frequency of the AC signal may be changed based on different receptacles (to conform to the criteria of the region corresponding to the second receptacle type).

In a particular embodiment, the method 600 further comprises: receiving a signal from a detector configured to determine a receptacle type; identifying one or more characteristics of the AC signal; generating a setting signal indicative of the one or more characteristics; and sending a set signal to the inverter to configure the inverter to output an AC signal having the one or more characteristics. For example, the controller 202 may receive a signal from the detector 218 indicating which receptacle type corresponds to the receptacle 220. The controller 202 may identify one or more target characteristics (e.g., target voltage, target frequency) and provide a set signal to the inverter 204 to configure the inverter 204 to output an AC signal having the one or more target characteristics. In some such embodiments, the method 600 may further comprise: receiving a DC voltage at an inverter; generating an AC signal of the inverter based on the DC voltage and the setting signal; and providing an AC signal to the receptacle via the AC port. For example, the inverter 204 may receive a DC voltage from the one or more batteries 206 and generate an AC signal (having the one or more characteristics) based on the DC voltage and the set signal. The AC signal may be provided to the receptacle 220 via the AC port 216.

Thus, the method 600 enables operation of a mobile power supply, i.e., detecting a socket type included in an interface module received by a port, and setting one or more characteristics of a power supply component based on the socket type. This detection of the type of receptacle and the characteristic settings of the power supply components enable the mobile power supply to provide an appropriate power signal to the receptacle or to receive an appropriate power signal without requiring the user to provide input (or programming) to the mobile power supply.

One or more methods described herein may be implemented as a computer-readable storage device storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform operations corresponding to the method. For example, a computer-readable storage device may store instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to: an interface module detector disposed in association with a port of the mobile power supply is monitored to obtain information indicative of a receptacle type of a receptacle of the interface module received by the port. The port is configured to variably receive an interface module of the plurality of interface modules and electrically couple a receptacle of the interface module received by the port to a power supply component of the mobile power source. The plurality of operations may further include: the receptacle type of the receptacle of the interface module received by the port is determined based on the information of the interface module detector. These operations may further include: one or more characteristics of the power supply component are set based on the determined socket type.

Referring to fig. 7, a kit 700 for a mobile power supply with a removable outlet is shown. The kit 700 includes a mobile power supply 710 and a first removable interface module 712. The mobile power supply 710 may be configured to charge and/or power one or more electronic devices via an AC output port and/or one or more DC output ports (such as one or more USB ports). The mobile power supply 710 may include or correspond to the mobile power supply 100 of fig. 1, the system 200 of fig. 2, and/or the mobile power supply 500 of fig. 5.

The first removable interface module 712 is configured to be removably (e.g., variably) coupled to the mobile power supply 710. For example, the first removable interface module 712 may be received by a port of the mobile power supply 710. In some implementations, the first removable interface module 712 can include or correspond to the interface module 300 of fig. 3.

In some embodiments, the kit 700 may further include a second removable interface module 714, an additional component 716, or a combination thereof. The second removable interface module 714 is configured to be removably coupled to the mobile power supply 710. For example, the second removable interface module 714 may be received by a port of the mobile power supply 710. The second removable interface module 714 may include receptacles configured according to a different locale than the receptacles of the first removable interface module 712. In some implementations, the second removable interface module 714 may include or correspond to the interface module 400 of fig. 4. As non-limiting examples, the additional components 716 may include a battery, a power cord, or other components.

In some embodiments, kit 700 may include package 702. For example, the package 702 may include a box, a bag, a container, and the like. The package 702 may include a mobile power supply 710 and a first removable interface module 712. In some implementations, the package 702 may further include a second removable interface module 714, an additional component 716, or any combination thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the package 702 may include a packaging medium (e.g., a packaging material), such as foam, paper, or the like. Thus, fig. 7 depicts a kit 700 for a mobile power supply.

In connection with the described aspects, an apparatus includes means for receiving an AC signal and providing the AC signal to means for receiving a corresponding connector configuration. The means for receiving an AC signal is sized to receive means for receiving a corresponding connector configuration. The means for receiving an AC signal may comprise or correspond to: the AC port of the mobile power supply 100 of fig. 1, the AC port 216 of fig. 2, the AC port of the mobile power supply 500 of fig. 5, the AC port of the mobile power supply 710 of fig. 7, one or more other structures or circuits configured to provide an AC signal, or any combination thereof. The means for receiving a corresponding connector configuration may comprise or correspond to: the interface module 102 of fig. 1, the receptacle 220 of fig. 2, the interface module 300 of fig. 3, the interface module 400 of fig. 4, the interface module 502 of fig. 5, the first removable interface module 712 of fig. 7, one or more other structures or circuits configured to receive a connector configuration, or any combination thereof.

The apparatus may further comprise means for determining a type of means for receiving a corresponding connector configuration. One or more characteristics of the AC signal provided to the means for receiving the AC signal are based on the detected type. The means for determining may include or correspond to: the detector of the mobile power supply 100 of fig. 1, the detector 218 of fig. 2, the detector of the mobile power supply 500 of fig. 5, the detector of the mobile power supply 710 of fig. 7, one or more other structures or circuits configured to determine the type of device for receiving the corresponding connector configuration, or any combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the apparatus further comprises means for generating an AC signal and means for configuring the means for generating an AC signal. The means for generating an AC signal may comprise or correspond to: the inverter of the mobile power supply 100 of fig. 1, the inverter 204 of fig. 2, the inverter of the mobile power supply 500 of fig. 5, the inverter of the mobile power supply 710 of fig. 7, one or more other structures or circuits configured to generate an AC signal based on a DC voltage, or any combination thereof. The means for configuring the means for generating an AC signal may comprise or correspond to: the controller of the mobile power supply 100 of fig. 1, the controller 202 of fig. 2, the controller of the mobile power supply 500 of fig. 5, the controller of the mobile power supply 710 of fig. 7, one or more other structures or circuits configured to configure a device for generating an AC signal, or any combination thereof.

It should be understood that the present systems, kits, devices, methods, and computer-readable storage devices are not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. On the contrary, they are intended to cover all combinations, modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the claims.

The functional blocks and modules described herein may include processors, electronics devices, hardware devices, electronics components, logic circuits, memories, software codes, firmware codes, etc., or any combination thereof.

Those of skill would further appreciate that the various illustrative logical blocks, modules, circuits, and algorithm steps described in connection with the disclosure herein may be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or combinations of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability of hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. Skilled artisans may implement the described functionality in varying ways for each particular application, but such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of the present disclosure. Skilled artisans will also readily appreciate that the order or combination of components, methods, or interactions described herein are merely examples, and that components, methods, or interactions of the various aspects of the disclosure may be combined or performed in ways other than those shown and described herein.

The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and circuits described in connection with the disclosure herein may be implemented or performed with a general purpose processor, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration.

The steps of a method or algorithm described in connection with the disclosure herein may be embodied directly in hardware, in a software module executed by a processor, or in a combination of the two. A software module may reside in RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to the processor such the processor can read information from, and write information to, the storage medium. In the alternative, the storage medium may be integral to the processor. The processor and the storage medium may reside in an ASIC. The ASIC may reside in a user terminal. In the alternative, the processor and the storage medium may reside as discrete components in a user terminal.

In one or more exemplary designs, the functions described may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, these functions may be stored on or transmitted over as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media includes both computer storage media and communication media including any medium that facilitates transfer of a computer program from one place to another. Computer readable storage media can be any available media that can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code means in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer, or a general purpose or special purpose processor. Also, the connection may be properly termed a computer-readable medium. For example, if the software is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using a coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, or Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), then the coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, or DSL are also included in the definition of medium. Disk and disc, as used herein, includes: optical discs (CDs), laser discs, optical discs, digital Versatile Discs (DVDs), hard disks, solid state disks, and blu-ray discs where disks usually reproduce data magnetically, while discs reproduce data optically with lasers. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

As used herein, including in the claims, the term "and/or" when used in a list of two or more items may mean that any one of the listed items may be employed alone, or any combination of two or more of the listed items may be employed. For example, if the composition is described as comprising component A, B and/or C, the composition may comprise: a alone; b alone; c alone; a combination of A and B; a combination of a and C; a combination of B and C; or a combination of A, B and C. Also, as used herein, including in the claims, the use of "or" in a list of items ending in "at least one of … …" indicates a disjunctive list, such that a list of, for example, "at least one of A, B or C" refers to any one of a or B or C or AB or AC or BC or ABC (i.e., a and B and C), or any combination thereof.

The previous description of the disclosure is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the disclosure. Various modifications to the disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other variations without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. Thus, the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the examples and designs described herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Although embodiments of the present application and their advantages have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the utility model as defined by the appended claims. Furthermore, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification. As one of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate from the disclosure of the present utility model, processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps, presently existing or later to be developed that perform substantially the same function or achieve substantially the same result as the corresponding embodiments described herein may be utilized according to the present utility model. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to include within their scope such processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps. Furthermore, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification.

Claims

1. An apparatus for power delivery, the apparatus comprising:

A port configured to variably receive an interface module of a plurality of interface modules, wherein the interface modules of the plurality of interface modules include receptacles configured to interface with corresponding connector configurations, and wherein the port is configured to electrically couple the receptacles of the interface module received by the port to a power supply component of the power delivery device coupled to the port; and

a detector configured to determine a socket type of a socket of the interface module received by the port, wherein one or more characteristics of the power supply component are controlled to correspond to a power signal appropriate for the socket type of the interface module received by the port based on the determined socket type.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the port comprises an alternating current, AC, port configured to output a first AC signal provided by the power supply to the receptacle or to receive a second AC signal from the receptacle and provide the second AC signal to the power supply.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the port comprises a direct current, DC, port configured to output a first DC voltage provided by the power supply component to the receptacle, or to receive a second DC voltage from the receptacle and provide the second DC voltage to the power supply component.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the receptacles of different ones of the plurality of interface modules correspond to different power signals.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more characteristics comprise a magnitude of an alternating current, AC, signal or a direct current, DC, voltage, a frequency of the AC signal, or both.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the detector comprises a mechanical component configured to be actuated by a feature extending from a back side of the interface module.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus further comprises:

one or more batteries;

an inverter coupled to the one or more batteries and configured to generate an alternating current, AC, signal based on direct current, DC, voltage received from the one or more batteries, the power supply component comprising the one or more batteries and the inverter; and

a controller coupled to the inverter, the controller configured to:

receiving input from the detector indicating the determined jack type;

selecting a setting signal corresponding to the AC signal based on the determined jack type, the setting signal being indicative of the one or more characteristics; and

The inverter is configured based on the setting signal.

8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the controller is configured to configure the inverter to generate an AC signal having a magnitude of one of: about 110 volts, 120 volts, 200 volts, 220 volts, 230 volts, and 240 volts.

9. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the controller is configured to configure the inverter to generate an AC signal having a frequency of 50 hertz or 60 hertz.

10. The device of claim 1, further comprising an input/output I/O device configured to display information corresponding to the one or more characteristics, a battery level of one or more batteries of the power delivery device, or both.

11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus further comprises:

one or more batteries;

a direct current, DC, converter coupled to the one or more batteries and configured to adjust one or more characteristics of a DC voltage received from the one or more batteries, wherein the power supply component includes the one or more batteries and the DC converter; and

one or more DC ports configured to receive the DC voltage from the DC converter, wherein the one or more DC ports comprise one of a universal serial bus, USB, firewire, e-SATA, and lightning 3 port.

12. An apparatus for power delivery, the apparatus comprising:

an alternating current, AC, port configured to removably receive an interface module comprising a receptacle configured to receive a corresponding connector configuration, the AC port further configured to electrically couple the receptacle to an inverter of the power delivery device, receive an AC signal from the inverter, and provide the AC signal to a receptacle of the interface module received by the AC port;

a detector configured to determine a receptacle type of a receptacle of an interface module received by the AC port and provide a signal indicative of the receptacle type;

a controller configured to receive the signal from the detector and generate a setting signal indicative of one or more characteristics of the AC signal based on the signal; and

an inverter is coupled to the AC port and configured to generate the AC signal based on the set signal.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the detector comprises a mechanical component, an optical component, a color detection component, a radio frequency identifier RFID component, or a combination thereof.

14. The device of claim 12, wherein the AC port is configured to removably receive a plurality of interface modules comprising different receptacles corresponding to different characteristics of the AC signal.

15. The device of claim 14, further comprising one or more Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports configured to output a first Direct Current (DC) voltage or to receive a second DC voltage to charge one or more batteries of the power delivery device.