CN107579583B

CN107579583B - Multifunctional portable power supply charger

Info

Publication number: CN107579583B
Application number: CN201610888158.6A
Authority: CN
Inventors: G·C·米勒; N·D·温斯坦
Original assignee: Halo International SEZC Ltd
Current assignee: Borringer Industries
Priority date: 2016-07-05
Filing date: 2016-10-11
Publication date: 2022-07-19
Anticipated expiration: 2036-10-11
Also published as: CN115940315A; CN107579583A

Abstract

A portable charger capable of cross-over starting a 12V on-board battery includes a charger battery, a cross-over start circuit in operative electrical connection with the charger battery and an ignition power outlet, and a microcontroller for integrating a safety function to establish or interrupt the operative electrical connection of the cross-over start circuit with the ignition power outlet. The ignition power socket comprises a positive power socket, a negative power socket, a positive sensing socket and a negative sensing socket. The sensing sockets are electrically isolated from the power sockets, and the microcontroller senses a voltage between the sensing sockets and is configured for interrupting the electrical connection of the jump starting circuit to the ignition power socket until a suitable voltage is sensed between the sensing sockets.

Description

Multifunctional portable power supply charger

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application 14/848,623 filed on 9/2015, U.S. patent application 14/848,668 filed on 9/2015 and claims the benefits of both applications based on 35u.s.c. § 120. Both of the above applications claim the benefit of U.S. provisional application 62/047,884 filed 9/2014, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. This application is also based on the priority of U.S. design patent application 29/541,040 filed 2015, 9, 30, at 35u.s.c. § 120, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. This application is also based on the priority of 35u.s.c. § 119(e) us provisional application 62/232,047 filed 2015, 9, 24, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to portable power charger devices and batteries, and more particularly, to a multi-functional portable power charger that outputs both ac and dc power for charging a variety of handheld electronic devices, including smart phones and notebook computers, and also enables cross-connection activation of onboard batteries.

Background

Current consumers often own a number of electronic devices specifically designed for portability and on-the-go use, including, for example, mobile or smart phones, such as

Or portable sound such as MP3 playerMusic players, tablet computers, notebook computers, portable game devices, and the like. These devices require frequent charging. Such electronic devices typically utilize cables to connect the device to a power source, such as a wall outlet, a car charger, an airplane charger, or a computer. However, separate cables are often required for each power supply. Furthermore, different electronic devices often use different ports and interfaces, such that a single charging cable is not compatible with multiple devices. Therefore, a skilled consumer (having multiple electronic devices) often has multiple charging cables to keep track of. Even so, the consumer may not always be in a location where power is readily available, or even so, may not have a suitable cable or adapter that can be used with a particular power source.

With respect to conventional power supplies such as those described above, it is difficult to charge multiple devices simultaneously, especially where a separate charging cable is required for each device. For example, an on-board charger can only handle a single cable at a time. Adapter devices are commercially available that simultaneously connect multiple devices to a power source-for example, a two-to-one or three-to-one vehicle charger dispenser (splitter). However, such adapters are typically compatible with only certain interfaces. Furthermore, such adapters are biased towards large volumes.

Multiple source adapters are also available on the market for making the charging cable compatible with multiple power sources. For example, a charging cable with a conventional plug interface for connecting the cable to a wall socket can exchange the plug with an on-board charger interface, or an airplane charger interface, or a standard USB interface. However, for such adapter devices, each interface is typically a separate component and is therefore difficult to track when it is not in use.

Similarly, interface attachment devices (attachments) are also charging cables that may be used to adapt for use with multiple devices, each having a different interface. However, such attachments are typically separate components and therefore difficult to track when not in use. Further, the use of such an add-on device does not solve the problem of having to charge multiple devices at the same time, since normally only one add-on device can be used with the charging cable at a time.

Existing power charger devices are also typically incapable of charging multiple devices simultaneously, and even the types of devices that can be charged by the power charger device are limited. For example, some charger devices are typically designed for a particular device, such as a particular brand, model, or model of smartphone, and cannot be used for other devices, such as a laptop or tablet. Similarly, portable power chargers are typically designed to supply dc power to charge the handheld electronic device, but lack the charging capacity to cross-start the onboard battery. Similarly, power chargers designed for cross-starting an on-board battery typically have too much power and thus can damage the handheld electronic device. Even if multiple electronic devices can be attached to the power source charger at the same time, the charger prioritizes how the devices are charged-i.e., it charges one of the devices first, followed by the second. However, this method runs the risk that there is not enough remaining charge in the charger to charge the second device.

Further, some portable charger devices do not allow charging using the charger when the charger itself is charging or is connected to a power source. Such devices require that the charger unit be disconnected from the power source before charge is transferred to the device connected to the charger. Likewise, some such charger devices must be fully charged before any device connected to the charger unit can be charged.

Further, many portable power chargers are currently available on the market in various shapes, sizes and designs. However, these power chargers typically have limited battery capacity, thus limiting the devices that can be charged and the amount of power that can be provided. Typically, such portable battery chargers are only designed for charging portable electronic devices, such as smartphones, portable music players and possibly tablets. Few portable battery chargers have sufficient power supply capacity for charging a notebook computer. Even fewer portable battery chargers can be used to cross-start the vehicle battery, while those available on the market are either too numerous to carry in one's pocket, purse, or backpack, or do not provide sufficient power to cross-start and charge the vehicle battery sufficiently. The vehicle-mounted battery charger on the market at present cannot be used for charging portable electronic equipment and notebook computers generally. Furthermore, on-board battery chargers on the market today can be activated when the battery charging clip is not yet connected to the battery. This potential risks sparking between the charging clamps or premature discharge of the battery in the portable charger (preliminary drain).

In view of the foregoing, there is a need for a multi-function charger that can be used to charge a variety of devices, including, for example, vehicle-mounted batteries, notebook computers, and various hand-held portable electronic devices, including but not limited to smart phones, mobile phones, data tablets, music players, cameras, video cameras, gaming devices, electronic books, bluetooth headsets and earplugs, GPS devices, and the like, individually or collectively in various combinations. Further, there is a need for a charger that is portable and easy to use in a variety of conditions and locations to simultaneously charge one or more electronic devices, including but not limited to a home or office, in a car or on an airplane. It is therefore a general object of the present invention to provide a portable charger that improves upon conventional power chargers currently on the market and overcomes the problems and disadvantages associated with such prior art chargers.

Disclosure of Invention

Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a portable power charger that outputs both ac and dc power. The portable power charger includes a charging plug and a charging cable that are storable in a storage position that is substantially flush with an outer surface of a housing of the portable power charger. The portable power charger has a power button that controls its operating mode, e.g., charging, power, or resistance mode (power block mode). The portable power charger also includes a plurality of indicator lights or LEDs that illuminate the power outlet ports and the power buttons. The indicator light or LED can indicate the effectiveness of the portable power charger in charging the electronic device (via the USB or ac connection interface), as well as the battery level and operating mode of the portable power charger.

Certain other embodiments of the present invention provide a portable power charger having multi-functional operation through multiple connection interfaces-e.g., a combination of a USB connection port and/or similar ac connection port, a dc connection port, and an ignition power socket. The USB or ac connection port can be used as a power output, if desired, and for connecting a power charger to an electronic device by using a suitable charging cable and adapter means. The USB or ac connection port can alternatively be used as a power input, if desired, and for connecting the power charger with an external power source by using a suitable charging cable and adapter means to charge the internal battery of the power charger. In some embodiments, multiple ports may be provided-for example, in the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 1, two USB ports and a single AC connection port are provided. Furthermore, although shown and described as a USB port, the port may use other known connection interfaces, such as a micro USB interface, a mini USB interface, a Lightning (Lightning) interface of apple, and a 30 pin interface of apple, without departing from the spirit and principles of the present invention.

The USB connection port can be used as a power input when needed, and for connecting a power charger with an external power source by using a charging cable having an ac/dc adapter. In embodiments of the invention, separate dc inputs and dc outputs may be provided.

An alternative ac connection interface can be added, which is designed primarily for charging the notebook computer via the internal battery of the power charger. In this regard, the ac connection interface can be used as a power outlet, as needed, and for connection to a notebook computer through the use of a suitable charging cable and adapter device. Similarly, an ac power input can be provided to connect the power charger with an external power source for charging the internal battery of the power charger by using an ac adapter preferably configured with the charger. Universal ac jacks and plugs can be used for both output and input functions, while these interfaces can be designed for U.S. and/or international standards.

The ignition power socket is configured to connect the portable charger to the on-board battery for jump starting by using a jumper cable having positive and negative alligator clamps or charging clamps. At the end of the jumper cable opposite the alligator clip, a specially designed end cap is provided to fit the socket of the ignition power socket. The specially designed end cap includes first and second power connections and first and second sensing connections. The first and second power connections are connected to respective first and second alligator clips by jumper cables. The first and second sensing connections are connected to respective sensing contacts (sensing contacts) disposed within and electrically isolated from respective first and second electrical clamps by respective first and second sensing cables.

The power charger according to the embodiments described and illustrated herein is portable due to the small size and compactness of the charger housing. Although the size of the power supply charger is small, the power supply capacity is very high, and therefore the battery unit can be applied to a variety of devices requiring charging, and if necessary, can include a plurality of devices at the same time. In a preferred embodiment, the battery cells comprise rechargeable lithium ion batteries having a power supply capacity in the range of about 57165mWh to about 58,830 mWh. Such power supply capacity allows the portable charger to also be used to charge the portable electronic device. Furthermore, this level of power capacity makes the present invention particularly suitable for use in jump starting an on-board battery.

The portable power charger according to embodiments of the present invention may also include an LED work light or emergency floodlight that is controlled by a light switch on the charger housing.

The power charger also includes a controller or microprocessor including a processing unit configured to execute instructions and perform operations associated with the power charger. For example, the processing unit can track the capacity level of the battery unit, store data, or provide a conduit means by which data can be exchanged between electronic devices, such as between a smartphone and a computer. The processing unit communicates with the battery unit to determine how much capacity is left in the battery. After determining the capacity level, the processing unit can communicate with a power indicator device to provide the user with information as to how much capacity is left on the internal rechargeable battery unit and whether the charger needs to be connected to an external power source for charging.

The portable power charger may also include a power indicator device that indicates a remaining capacity of an internal rechargeable battery cell in the power charger. For example, in the embodiment of the present invention, the power indicator includes four LED strings, but more or less lamps can be included without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention. All lamps will be on when the battery is at "full" capacity-i.e., between about 76% and about 100% charge. When the battery power is reduced, the lamps will be reduced individually accordingly due to the use of power-for example, three lamps represent between about 51% and about 75% power; two lamps represent between about 26% and about 50% electrical energy; one lamp represents less than or equal to about 25% electrical energy. Alternatively, the power indicator device can include a digital interface that provides a battery capacity level (capacity level) for an internal rechargeable battery cell, or other known means of providing battery charge information.

In some embodiments of the power supply charger, connector cables operatively connected to the internal battery cells can be provided with the charger housing and, in some embodiments, stored inside a cavity formed in the charger housing from which they can be removed for connection to an electronic device requiring charging. Still further, such charging cables can be removable and replaceable so that different connector interfaces-e.g., USB, micro-USB, mini-USB, apple's lightning interface, or apple's 30-pin interface-can be used with the portable power charger.

In certain embodiments of the power charger, a wireless transmitter and/or receiver can be included in the charger housing for wirelessly charging the internal battery of a portable electronic device having a suitable wireless receiver, or the internal battery of the power charger through a wireless charging station, as shown and described in pending U.S. patent application No. 14/220,524, 3/20/2014, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Some embodiments of portable power chargers according to the present disclosure may include one or more of a low voltage dc output (e.g., a USB port), a relatively high voltage dc output (i.e., a vehicle ignition power outlet), and an ac inverter output.

These and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the invention, which is to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings. The illustrated embodiments and features of the present invention are provided for illustration only and are not intended to be limiting of the invention.

Drawings

Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a portable charger according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

fig. 2 shows a front view of the portable charger of fig. 1;

Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of a portable charger according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

fig. 4 shows a front view of the second portable charger of fig. 3;

fig. 5 shows an exploded assembly view of the portable charger of fig. 1;

fig. 6 shows a schematic diagram of a safety circuit of either of the portable chargers of fig. 1 or 3;

FIG. 7 shows an exemplary microprocessor pin of the portable charger of FIG. 1;

fig. 8 shows a reverse polarity detector of either of the portable chargers of fig. 1 or 3;

fig. 9 shows a reverse current protector of either of the portable chargers of fig. 1 or 3;

fig. 10 shows a temperature control circuit of either of the portable chargers of fig. 1 or 3;

FIG. 11 shows a method flow diagram of the use and operation of either of the portable chargers of FIG. 1 or FIG. 3;

fig. 12 shows a first perspective view of a portable charger according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

fig. 13 shows a second perspective view of the third portable charger of fig. 12, with the plug and connector cable bent away from the charger housing;

fig. 14 shows a schematic diagram of the third portable charger of fig. 12;

fig. 15 shows an end view of a portable charger according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 16 shows a first perspective view of a portable charger according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention;

fig. 17 shows a second perspective view of the fifth portable charger of fig. 16;

fig. 18 shows a side plan view of the portable charger of fig. 16;

fig. 19 shows a first end plan view of the portable charger of fig. 16;

fig. 20 shows a second end plan view of the portable charger of fig. 16;

fig. 21 shows a schematic diagram of a main board of the fifth portable charger in fig. 16;

fig. 22 shows a USB circuit board schematic of the fifth portable charger of fig. 16;

fig. 23 shows a microcontroller circuit board schematic of the fifth portable charger of fig. 16;

fig. 24 shows an ac button circuit board schematic of the fifth portable charger of fig. 16;

FIG. 25 shows a perspective view of a jumper cable according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 26 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the jumper cable assembly of FIG. 22.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 and 2 show a portable power charger 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The illustrated portable charger 10 is capable of starting a 12V on-board battery across and charging a 5V portable electronic device. The portable charger 10 includes a housing 12, the housing 12 including at least one 5V USB output connection port 14. As shown in fig. 2, the preferred embodiment uses two USB ports 14 operatively controlled by a power button 22. Also external to the housing 12 are different shaped positive and negative 12V jumper cable receptacles 16, 18 (collectively "ignition power sockets") operatively connected to a jumper start button 20 for jumper starting the vehicle battery. The housing 12 is also provided with a 14V DC charging input port 24, as shown in FIG. 1, for charging the internal batteries of the charger 10 through the use of a power adapter, preferably provided with the charger 10. The charger 10 also includes battery charge indicators LEDs 26 and a light 27 (e.g., an LED or fluorescent light).

Referring to fig. 3-4, in another embodiment of the present invention, a portable power charger 90 includes a second light 92 (e.g., an LED or fluorescent light) and a dc output jack 94. The other components of the portable charger 90 shown in fig. 3-4 are similar to those described with reference to the charger 10 shown in fig. 1-2 and are numbered in a similar manner.

Fig. 5 shows an exploded assembly view of the portable charger 10. Inside the housing 12, the portable charger 10 houses an internal rechargeable battery 30 (e.g., a lithium ion type battery), and operating circuitry 40, the operating circuitry 40 connecting the charger battery 30 with at least one USB output port 14 and a jumper cable jack, the USB output port 14 providing +5V USB power and the jumper cable jack providing approximately +12V dc power. The operating circuit 40 includes a safety circuit 50 that operatively connects the power source 30 with the

jumper cable receptacles

16, 18. All of these components are common between either

portable charger

10 or 90, and therefore, the description of the portable charger 10 shown in fig. 1-2 with reference to fig. 5 is equally applicable to the portable charger 90 shown in fig. 3-4.

In certain embodiments, the charger battery 30 can be a series connection of three single lithium ion polymer batteries, each single rated at 3.7V (11.1V total), capable of peak current of 500A, capacity in excess of 57000mWh, with a charging circuit supporting a 14V charging voltage. Such a specification allows the portable charger 10 to be medium sized, i.e., less than about 30cm along either side, while still enabling at least three jump start attempts on a standard 12V on-board battery. The circuit 40 allows peak currents of up to 500 amps to be drawn for cross-over starting a vehicle battery connected to the vehicle. Additionally, the circuit 40 provides a 5V dc output to the USB connection port to charge the hand-held portable electronic device from the same power supply 30 without risking damage to the device.

Generally, the safety circuit 50 enables operative connection of the jumper cable receptacles with the charger battery terminals if there is a voltage difference of at least about 11V across the positive and negative

jumper cable receptacles

16, 18. The safety circuit 50 interrupts at least the operative connection of the charger jacks 16, 18 with the charger battery 30 if the following shut-off condition occurs: insufficient voltage across the positive and negative charger jacks 16, 18; the polarity of the positive and negative charger jacks 16, 18 is reversed; the current flow to the charger battery 30 is reversed; detecting continuous connection of either the positive or negative vehicle-mounted battery terminals; or the temperature of the charger battery 30 is too high.

To perform the above-described functions, the safety circuit 50 initiates a jump start safety check sequence 100 (as further described below with reference to FIG. 11) in response to user actuation of the jump start button 20. When the cross-over start security check sequence is successfully completed, the portable charger 10 provides 12V of dc current from the charger battery 30 to the charger jacks 16, 18. Further, when the cross-over start security check sequence is successfully completed, the portable charger 10 is ready to provide 12V DC current during the predetermined time period. For example, during the predetermined time period, the portable charger 10 provides 12V of dc current from the charger battery 30 to the charger jacks 16, 18 in response to a second actuation of the jump starting button 20 by the user. For example, the predetermined period of time is sufficient for three discrete jump start attempts. According to some embodiments, the portable charger 10 terminates preparation after three discrete jump start attempts.

Referring to fig. 6-10, the safety circuit 50 includes a jump start relay 52, a microprocessor 54, a voltage input analyzer 56 operatively connected to the microprocessor 54 to enable or disable the jump start relay, a differential voltage amplifier 58, a reverse polarity detector 60, a reverse current protector 62, and a thermistor 64.

More specifically, port PD1 of microprocessor 54 is operatively connected to drive transistor 66, and transistor 66 energizes or de-energizes jump starter relay 52. The microprocessor 54 is also configured to execute instructions and perform operations associated with the power charger 10. For example, the processing unit can track the capacity level of the battery unit 30, store data, or provide a conduit means by which data can be exchanged between electronic devices, such as between a smartphone and a computer. The processing unit communicates with the battery unit 30 to determine how much capacity is left in the battery. After determining the capacity level, the processing unit can communicate with the power indicator device 26 in order to display information as to how much capacity remains in the internal rechargeable battery cells and whether the charger 10 needs to be connected to an external power source for charging.

Fig. 6 shows a voltage input analyzer 56 operatively connected between the

jumper cable receptacles

16, 18. The voltage input analyzer 56 comprises a voltage divider so that it sends a fraction of the terminal voltage of the on-board battery to be charged to port PA0 of the microprocessor 54. If there is a sufficient voltage differential (the

jumper cable receptacles

16, 18 are connected to the battery), then the partial voltage from the voltage input analyzer 56 will cancel the default signal at the microprocessor port PA0, and as a result, the microprocessor 54 will have one of the inputs required to energize the jumper starter relay 52 or enable the jumper starter relay 52. Thus, the safety circuit 50 is only able to operatively connect the

jumper cable receptacles

16, 18 with the charger battery 30 when the charger battery 30 voltage is satisfactory.

Fig. 6 also shows a differential current amplifier 58 that compares the negative terminal voltage of the charger battery 30 with the negative terminal voltage of the on-board battery to be charged and sends a signal to port PC7 of the microprocessor 54 if the charging current exceeds a tolerance threshold. Additionally, if the differential current amplifier output exceeds the breakdown voltage of the Zener diode (Zener diode)68, the output passes an electrical wave to the transistor 70 to generate a signal at port PA3 of the microprocessor 54. These two signals disable the microprocessor from energizing the jump start relay 52 or enabling the jump start relay 52. Thus, the safety circuit 50 is only able to operatively connect the

jumper cable receptacles

16, 18 with the charger battery 30 when the negative terminal voltages match within a predetermined tolerance threshold.

Fig. 7 shows a microprocessor 54, which includes the following ports:

PA 3: detecting the temperature of the battery at the A/D port;

PA 2: detecting the temperature of the battery at the A/D port;

PA 1: USB current detection of ADI 5V;

PA 0: checking external voltage detection;

·VSS：GND；

PC 6: v2 charging voltage detection;

PC 7: v4 battery current output detection;

PC 0: v5 charging voltage and battery voltage detection;

PC 1: v3 returns to charge current detection;

PD 0: an on/off port;

PD 1: a relay control port;

PB 0: reverse battery detection;

PB 1: LED on/off control;

PB 2: a bridging button control;

PB 3: controlling a light button;

PB 4: cross-over green control;

PB 5: bridge red control;

PD 2: off/off light control;

PD 3: USB output control;

PC 2: off/off button voltage control;

PWM 1: outputting a PWM signal;

PC 4: LED battery indicator control;

VDD is VCC; and

PA6-PA 4: LED battery indicator control.

Fig. 8 shows reverse polarity detector 60 which may include a light emitting diode 72 connected in series between ground and the positive jumper cable jack 16, and may also include a phototransistor 74 in optical communication with the light emitting diode and connected in series between ground and a reverse polarity detection terminal PB0 of microprocessor 54. If the jumper cable is reversed-i.e. the positive jumper cable jack is connected to the negative terminal to be charged-the reverse polarity will be detected by energizing the light emitting diode 72 and corresponding conduction via the phototransistor 74. This will generate a signal at port PB0 of the microprocessor that will cancel the input required to energize the jump start relay 52 or enable the jump start relay 52. Thus, if the

jumper cable receptacles

16, 18 are reversed from the vehicle battery, the safety circuit 50 disables the operative connection of the

jumper cable receptacles

16, 18 with the charger battery 30.

Fig. 9 shows the reverse current protector 62, which may include an operational amplifier 76 operatively connected between the negative terminal of the charger battery 30 and the negative jumper cable jack 18. If the voltage difference across op-amp 76 is reversed, reverse current protector 62 will send a signal to port PC1 of microprocessor 54 and microprocessor 54 will remove the input required to energize crossover start relay 52 or enable crossover start relay 52. Thus, if the on-board battery begins to send current back through the charger battery, the safety circuit 50 will disable the operative connection of the

jumper cable receptacles

16, 18 with the charger battery 30.

Fig. 10 shows that a thermistor 64 (or equivalent temperature sensing circuit) is mounted near the charger battery 30 and is operatively connected with the microprocessor 54 to provide a signal at PA5 in the event that the charger battery temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold. Thus, if the charger battery temperature exceeds a predetermined temperature, the safety circuit 50 may disable the operative connection of the

jumper cable receptacles

16, 18 with the charger battery 30.

FIG. 11 illustrates a flow chart of a jump start safety sequence used by the charger 10 of the present invention. At step 101, the user manually presses the jump starting button 20 on the portable charger 10. Pressing the jump start button 20 initiates a jump start security check sequence 100. At step 102, the safety circuit 50 verifies the polarity of the jumper cable using the reverse polarity detector 60. If the jumper cable is connected incorrectly, the jumper start button 20 will flash a fast red flash 104. If the jumper cable connection is correct, the safety circuit 50 will verify at step 108 that the voltage of the charger battery 30 is sufficient using the voltage input analyzer 56. To evaluate the voltage difference between the positive and negative charger battery terminals of the charger battery 30, i.e., the voltage difference that the portable charger 10 will be used to cross over start, the voltage input analyzer circuit 56 sends a signal to pins PA0, PC5 of the microprocessor 54, and the microprocessor 54 receives a portion of the voltage from the positive terminal of the charger battery 30. If no voltage is detected, the safety circuit 50 will send a signal to the microprocessor 54 to disable the crossover activation relay 52. On the other hand, if the microprocessor 54 senses at least a minimum voltage difference, it will then enable the jump starter relay 52.

Referring to fig. 12, there is shown a portable power charger 10 according to a third embodiment of the present invention. The illustrated charger 120 basically includes a housing 122 (shown in fig. 14) that houses an internal rechargeable battery 127, as well as operating circuitry similar to that described in other embodiments herein. The housing 122 also houses a charging cable 124 operatively connected to an internal battery 127 and a plug 126 disposed at an end thereof from which power is supplied to the battery 127 when the cable 124 and plug 126 are connected to an external power source. Preferably, the charger 120 also includes one or more USB power connection ports 128 as power outputs and an AC power interface 130.

The housing 122 may be made in a variety of ways from a variety of materials, such as molded plastic, stamped and pressed sheet metal, machined plastic, or metal stock. Charging cable 124 and plug 126 are shown in a storage position substantially flush with the outer surface of housing 122. To charge the internal battery 127 (as shown in fig. 14) through connection with an external power source, such as a standard U.S. wall outlet, the charging cable 124 and plug 126 can be changed from the storage position to the deployed position (as shown in fig. 13), as discussed above.

The power interfaces 128, 130 are operatively connected to the internal battery 127 so as to be powered by the internal battery 127 and preferably serve as a power output for providing power from the internal battery 127 to an electronic device that is connected to the charger 120 through one of the

interfaces

128, 130. According to the present invention, a plurality of electronic devices can be connected to the charger 120 at the same time. The power interfaces 128, 130 can be enabled or disabled via a power button 132, the power button 132 controlling the configuration of a battery management module 133 (shown in fig. 14). The power button 132 is shown as a push button, but can be a rocker switch, a slide switch, or the like.

Although the ac power interface 130 is shown as a U.S. NEMA 5-15 jack (standard 120V, 60Hz ground receptacle), it could alternatively be made to conform to another standard (e.g., euro plug, JIS). Alternatively, one or more power adapters can be packaged with the portable power charger 120. Similarly, plug 126, although shown as a standard U.S. three-phase ac plug, may take the form of other plugs or be connected to various adapters conforming to other international standards.

Alternatively or in addition to the USB and ac power interfaces 128, 130, the portable power charger 120 may include a wireless power transmitter (not shown) disposed within the housing 122 for transmitting power in a wireless power transmission to an electronic device having a compatible wireless receiver. Instead of or in addition to the charging cable 124 and plug 126, the portable power charger 120 may include a wireless power receiver (not shown) disposed within the housing 122 for wirelessly charging the internal battery 127 from a wireless power transmitting device, such as a wireless charging pad as is well known in the art.

When the power interfaces 128, 130 are enabled, i.e., when the battery management module 133 is configured in a mode to supply power to a power outlet for use by an electronic device, then the power interfaces 128, 130 may be illuminated by the

respective LEDs

134, 136, while the power button 132 may be illuminated by its own LED 137. The

LEDs

134, 136, 137 may have different colors-e.g., blue light for the USB power interface 128; violet light is used for the ac power interface 130; and green light for power button 132. When the power interfaces 128, 130 are deactivated, i.e., when the battery management module 133 is configured in a mode that prevents the supply of power to the power outlets, the

LEDs

134, 136 will be extinguished. As shown in fig. 12, the LEDs may be ring-shaped, i.e. surrounding the respective power socket. However, other shapes, such as square or circular adjacent to the respective power connection port, are also acceptable.

Fig. 13 shows the charging plug 126 and cable 124 removed from their storage positions to an extended use position from which the plug 126 can be plugged into a us standard ac wall outlet for charging the internal battery 127 of the charger 120. Although the charging plug 126 is shown as a three-phase plug, it could equally be provided as a two-phase plug. As can be seen from fig. 13, the housing 122 comprises a socket 138 into which the prongs of the charging plug 16 can be inserted in the storage position. In some embodiments, the jack 138 may also serve as the ac outlet 130, or an additional connection interface, although in this case an additional safety circuit is incorporated into the charging circuit to prevent a closed loop from the internal battery 127 back to the battery 127 through the cable 124.

Referring to fig. 14, the internal battery 127 can be a lithium polymer type battery, three or four cells. The internal battery 127 can have varying capacities. The following capacities are possible: 22000mWh, 33000mWh, 44000mWh, 57720mWh or 58830 mWh. The internal battery 127 is in operative electrical connection with other components of the portable power charger 120 through a battery management module 133. The power button 132 is operatively electrically connected to control the battery management module 133. The power button 132 controls the battery management module 133 to be in either a power supply mode or a resistance mode, as discussed further below.

In some implementations of the invention, the battery management module 133 is an 8-bit microprocessor with low pin count, low cost, low power sleep capacity. For example, a microchip PIC may be used.

Referring to fig. 14, on a first side, the battery management module 133 operatively electrically connects the internal battery 127 with the battery charge controller 140. The battery charge controller 140 operatively electrically connects the battery management module 133 to an ac/dc converter 142, the ac/dc converter 142 being capable of receiving 90-277V ac input of 50Hz or 60Hz of no more than 100W. An ac/dc converter 142 operatively electrically connects the battery current controller 140 with the charging cable 124.

On the second side, the battery management module 133 operatively electrically connects the internal battery 127 with the dc/ac inverter 144 and the USB charge controller 146. The dc/ac inverter 144 operatively electrically connects the battery management module 133 to the ac power outlet 130, while the USB charge controller 146 operatively electrically connects the battery management module 133 to the USB power outlet 128 and the

LEDs

134, 136.

The battery management module 133 is also in operative electrical connection with a battery state of charge indicator 148, the battery state of charge indicator 148 including a red LED and a green LED. The green LED can be illuminated alone to represent a high battery level of about 75% -100% capacity. The green and red LEDs can be illuminated together to form yellow light to represent a medium battery charge of at least about 50% -74% capacity. The red LEDs can be illuminated individually to represent a low battery level of about 5% -49% capacity. When the battery is being charged, then the battery state of charge indicator LED 148 can blink to indicate the state of charge. In some embodiments, the battery charge status indicator 148 may be disposed in the location of the power button LED 137-i.e., when the power button 132 is actuated to place the battery management module 133 in a power mode, or when the charging plug 126 is plugged into an ac power source, then the battery charge status indicator 148 illuminates the power button 132 with a color appropriate for the battery charge.

In operation, when the battery charge controller 140 detects dc power available from the ac/dc inverter 142, this means that the charging plug 126 has been plugged into the ac power source. In this state, the battery charge controller 140 puts the battery management module 133 in a charging mode in which the battery management module supplies dc power only to the USB charge controller and not to the dc/ac inverter 144. Regardless of the state of the power button 132, the battery charger controller 140 can always place the battery management module 133 in the charging mode.

In the charging mode, the battery state of charge indicator 148 and/or the power button LED 137 will continuously flash to indicate that the battery is charging. Likewise, the USB outlet LEDs 134 may be constantly on or may blink, while the AC outlet LEDs 136 will not light up. The battery management module 133 directs power from the battery charge controller 140 to the internal battery 127. The battery charger controller 140 will continuously monitor and manage the charge of the internal battery 127. For example, this may include cell balancing (cell balancing) among three or four cells of the internal battery 127. Additionally, the battery charge controller 140 integrates cell protection-for example by gas metering. An exemplary embodiment of the battery charge controller 30 uses a model BQ40Z50 chip manufactured by texas instruments.

When the battery management module 133 is not in the charging mode, the power button 132 controls the mode of the battery management module between the power supply mode and the resistance mode.

In the power mode, the battery management module 133 provides power from the internal battery 127 to the dc/ac inverter 144 and the USB charge controller 146. The dc/ac inverter 144 provides a modified sine wave current (at a maximum power of about 65W), for example 120 vac, to the ac power outlet 130. The USB port 128 provides 5V of 1A or 2.1A DC power. The corresponding

LEDs

134, 136 are normally on for the USB power outlet 128 and the ac power outlet 130. The power button LED 137 is also illuminated, as is the battery state of charge indicator 148. In other embodiments,

LEDs

134, 136 may be illuminated only when their respective ports are being used to charge the electronic device.

In the resistive mode, the battery management module 133 does not provide power from the internal battery 127. The LED 134, LED 136, LED 137 and battery state of charge indicator 148 are not illuminated.

Referring to fig. 15, another embodiment of the present invention is a portable power charger 150, wherein like components are numbered in the same manner as those in the portable power charger 120. The portable power charger 150 includes a housing 152 that houses an internal battery unit (not shown) that is operatively connected to the USB power connection interface 158 and the ac power interface 160, as well as a battery state of charge indicator 188. The portable power charger 150 has a three-way power slide switch 162 that selects between a resistive mode, a power mode, or a flash mode. The portable power charger 150 also includes an LED light 190 for the purpose of flash mode. Instead of the charging plug 126 and charging cable 124 shown in fig. 12-13, the portable power charger 150 uses a micro-USB power input connection port or a two-phase ac flip-chip plug (not shown).

Fig. 16 and 17 show opposing end perspective views of a portable power charger 200 according to another embodiment of the invention. The portable charger 200 includes a housing 202 that houses an internal rechargeable battery 207, as well as a USB power connection port 208, an ignition power socket 209, and an ac power interface 210.

The ignition power socket 209 may be a modified EC5 connector having a current capacity of up to 500A. For example, the ignition power socket 209 may include positive and

negative power sockets

286, 287 in accordance with conventional EC5 configurations, and positive and negative sensing sockets symmetrically disposed on either side of a midline of the positive and negative power sockets. These modifications to the structure of EC5 are further discussed with reference to fig. 18 and 22. Alternatively, the

power outlets

286, 287 and sensing

outlets

288, 289 may be arranged in another manner to enhance the polarity of the ignition power socket 209. For example, the positive and negative sensing sockets may be arranged asymmetrically; or the positive and negative power sockets may have a different shape than the shape of EC 5.

Referring to fig. 20, the ac power interface 210 is shown as a american standard ac outlet (NEMA 5-15), but may alternatively be made to conform to a different standard (e.g., euro plug (JIS)). The interface 210 is operatively connected to the internal battery 207 and is primarily designed for charging the notebook computer via the charger 200.

Referring to fig. 18, a USB power connection port 208 is operatively connected to the internal battery 207 and provides power to a hand-held portable electronic device connected to a charger through the connection port 208. In a preferred embodiment, the USB port serves as a power output port for directing power from the internal battery 207 to the electronic device for charging. In an alternative embodiment, when the charger 200 is connected to an external power source through a USB connection port, the port can be used as a power input to charge the internal battery 207. In other embodiments, the USB port can be a bidirectional charging port that serves as a power input or power output, depending on the object connected to the port.

The housing 202 also houses a dc power input connector 214, a battery status indicator 216, a cross-over start button 220, a USB power button 222, and an ac power button 224. Referring to fig. 19, the charger 200 also includes an LED worklight or floodlight 212 operatively controlled by a floodlight power button 218.

In addition to the USB power interface 208 and the dc power input connector 214, a wireless power transmitter and a wireless power receiver can be provided for wirelessly charging the electronic device and for wirelessly recharging the internal battery. Exemplary wireless power techniques are disclosed in applicant's united states patent 9,318,915 issued on 2016, 4, 19, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Fig. 21-24 provide schematic internal circuit diagrams of a portable power charger 200 according to the present invention.

Fig. 21 shows a schematic diagram of a motherboard 230 that operatively electrically connects the internal battery 207 to the ac power interface 210 through an ac inverter circuit 232 and a battery protection circuit 234. The main board 230 also houses a jumper start circuit 236 that operatively electrically connects the internal battery 207 with the ignition power socket 209 through a safety relay 238. Motherboard 230 is also provided with certain protection subcircuits that provide signals to microcontroller 240 (shown in fig. 23) provided on microcontroller circuit board 242. The protection sub-circuit includes an ac overcurrent protection circuit 244 and an ac overvoltage/undervoltage protection circuit 246 associated with the ac power interface 210; and an electrical clamp verification circuit 248 and a reverse current protection circuit 236 associated with the jump starting circuit 236.

Fig. 22 shows a schematic diagram of a USB circuit board 252 that operatively electrically connects the internal battery 207 with the USB power receptacle 208 through a USB power circuit 254. The USB circuit board 252 also operatively electrically connects the internal battery 207 with the dc power input connector 214 through a charging circuit 256. The USB circuit board 252 also houses a cross-over activation enabled LED 258, a cross-over activation error LED 260, a plurality of battery indicator LEDs 262, a USB power source enabled LED 264, a cross-over activation switch 220, and a USB power button 222.

Fig. 23 shows a microcontroller circuit board 242 housing a microcontroller 240, the microcontroller 240 incorporating the safety, charging and power supply functions of the portable charger 200. The microcontroller circuit board 242 also houses the LED floodlight 212, the floodlight button 218, and a cross-over start reverse connection detection circuit 266.

Fig. 24 shows a schematic diagram of an ac power button circuit board 270, the ac power button circuit board 270 housing the ac power button 224 and a plurality of ac power valid LEDs 272 and a plurality of ac power false LEDs 274.

Referring specifically to fig. 21, preferably, the internal battery 207 is a three cell lithium polymer battery, each cell having a nominal voltage of 3.7V for a total battery voltage of 11.1V. The battery capacity is preferably 5300mAh or 58830 mWh. Preferably, the discharge rate is at a minimum at 20 ℃ and the charge rate is at a maximum at 1 ℃. The internal impedance is preferably at most 12m omega. Preferably, the CoV of the fully charged cell is 4.2V and the CoV of the discharged cell is 2.8V. Preferably, the battery 207 has a self-discharge of less than 2% per month at 20 ℃, and preferably is capable of operating between about-20 ℃ to about 70 ℃ and between about 0% to about 95% relative humidity. Preferably, the battery 207 is capable of sustaining at least about 300 cycles and has a maximum discharge current of 500A up to 4 s.

Ac inverter circuit 232 includes a transformer 280 and an integrated circuit 282 that collectively produce a modified ac sine wave between the neutral terminal N and the line terminal L of ac output 210. The ac inverter circuit 232 generates ac power having a voltage of about 115V and a rated power of 65W. The inverter circuit 232 receives power from the internal battery 207 through the battery protection circuit 234. Ac inverter circuit 232 is enabled by pressing ac power button 224 to send a signal to the inverter circuit, and ac inverter circuit 232 is disabled by pressing ac power button 224 a second time to send a signal to the inverter circuit. These signals are provided by microcontroller 240 (shown in schematic 23) which responds to button pushes of ac power button 224 (shown in schematic 24).

The battery protection circuit 234 integrates the charging of the internal battery 207 via a charging circuit 256, the charging circuit 256 being housed on the USB circuit board 252 (shown in schematic 22). During charging, the battery protection circuit 234 provides overcharge protection as well as cell balancing functionality. The overcharge protection prevents any single cell from being charged above a cell voltage of 4.2V. The cell balancing function provides for balancing cell voltages within 50mV and charging currents within 300 mA. Likewise, during discharge of the internal battery 207, the battery protection circuit 234 provides cell under-voltage protection.

The main board 230 is connected to the ac power socket 210, and also houses an ac overcurrent protection circuit 244 and an ac overvoltage/undervoltage protection circuit 246. The ac over-current protection circuit 244 provides a signal to the microcontroller 240 if the output current to the ac power outlet 210 exceeds a preset threshold. The signal from the over-current protection circuit 244 causes the microcontroller 240 to send a signal to the ac inverter circuit 232 to deactivate the ac inverter circuit. Similarly, if the output voltage between the neutral terminal N and the line terminal L exceeds a predetermined high-low range, the ac over/under voltage protection circuit 246 provides a signal to the microcontroller 240. The signal from the ac over/under voltage protection circuit 246 causes the microcontroller 240 to send a signal to the ac inverter circuit 232.

Therefore, when the ac power button 224 is pressed to turn on the ac power outlet 210, the microcontroller 240 verifies the

ac protection circuits

240, 242. The microcontroller 240 will also verify the battery protection circuit 234 and will prevent operation in the event that the battery voltage is below 10V. During these checks (which take about 4 seconds), the microcontroller 240 will cause the ac power valid LED 272 (behind the ac power button 224, and shown in the schematic 24) to flash green. If an under-voltage condition is detected-for example, the total battery voltage is below about 10V or the voltage on any cell of the battery is below about 2.8V-the microcontroller 240 will cause the AC power valid LED 272 to continuously flash green for one minute before automatically shutting off power to the AC power outlet 210. On the other hand, if the

ac protection circuits

240, 242 and the internal battery voltage check are satisfactory, the microcontroller 240 will cause the ac power valid LED 272 to emit a steady green light.

In addition, the microcontroller 240 continuously monitors the output power during the supply of power from the ac power outlet 210. If an over-current (over-power) condition is detected, e.g., traction power exceeding about 80W, the microcontroller 240 will shut off power to the AC outlet 210 and will cause the AC fault LED 274 to flash red until the AC button 224 is pressed again to turn off the AC outlet 210. On the other hand, if the microcontroller 240 detects a power deficiency condition (traction power below about 1W), after one minute, the microcontroller will disconnect power from the AC power outlet 210.

Still referring to fig. 21, the motherboard 230 also houses a jumper start circuit 236 that operatively electrically connects the internal battery 207 with the ignition power socket 209. The jump starting circuit 236 includes a safety relay 238 controlled by a microcontroller 240 in order to provide or disconnect power output from the internal battery 207 to the ignition power socket 209. In particular, a first signal output from the microcontroller 240 to the safety relay 238 will cause the safety relay to open to prevent electrical connection of the internal battery 207 to the ignition power socket 209. On the other hand, a second signal output from the microcontroller 240 to the safety relay 238 will cause the safety relay to close to allow electrical connection of the internal battery 207 to the ignition power socket 209.

The microcontroller 240 sends signals to the safety relay 238 based on signals from a plurality of protection circuits, including an electrical clamp verification circuit 248, a reverse current protection circuit 250, and a reverse connection detection circuit 266 (shown in schematic 23). If the signals received by the microcontroller 240 from all safety circuits are satisfactory, it will energize the safety relay 238 to allow current to flow from the internal battery 207 through the ignition power socket 209.

Based on the voltage sensed at the ignition power socket, the clip verification circuitry 248 verifies that the charging cable alligator clip is connected to the vehicle battery. More specifically, the ignition power socket 209 includes not only the positive and

negative power sockets

286, 287, but also the positive and

negative sensing sockets

288, 289. At the firing power receptacle 209, the sensing jacks 288, 289 are electrically isolated from the power jacks 286, 287. The charging cable and its alligator clip are of a special design (as described further below with reference to fig. 25) so that the

sensing sockets

288, 289 can be energised by connecting the charging cable alligator clip to an on-board battery having at least some residual charge. When the

sensing sockets

288, 289 are energized with the correct polarity (positive sensing socket 288 being at a higher potential than negative sensing socket 289-e.g., at least about 2.8V higher), they drive opto-isolator 290 within the electrical clamp verification circuitry 248, thereby providing a satisfactory electrical clamp verification signal from the electrical clamp detection circuitry to microcontroller 240. As described above, the electrical clamp verification signal is one of the signals required by the microcontroller 240 to close the safety relay 238. Thus, the electrical clamp verification circuitry 248 provides spark protection that prevents the safety relay 238 from being turned off prior to connecting the electrical clamp to the battery to be charged. Although the electrical clip verification signal is a low signal as shown, the electrical clip verification circuitry 248 can alternatively be configured to generate a high signal when the alligator clip is attached to the terminals of the vehicle battery.

The reverse current protection circuit 250 verifies whether the on-board battery attempts to charge the internal battery 207 through the ignition power socket 209. If the reverse current protection circuit 250 detects a reverse current greater than about 10A, it sends a shut down signal to the microcontroller 240. The reverse connection detection circuit 266 verifies that the charging cable alligator clip is connected back to the vehicle battery based on the voltage detected at the ignition power socket 209.

Microcontroller 240 also performs a variety of other security functions. These functions include on-board battery over-voltage verification and on-board battery under-voltage/short circuit verification. According to the on-board battery over-voltage check, if the voltage at the ignition power socket 209 exceeds about 13.2V, the microcontroller 240 will cause the safety relay 238 to remain open. According to the on-board under-voltage/short-circuit check, if the voltage at the ignition power socket 209 is below 2.5V, the microcontroller 240 will cause the safety relay 238 to remain open. Therefore, the under-voltage verification also provides short-circuit protection to prevent the positive and negative cable clamps from contacting.

Referring to fig. 22, which shows the USB circuit board 252 of the portable charger 200, the internal battery 207 can be charged by a charging circuit 256, the charging circuit 256 being in operative electrical connection with the dc power input connector 214. The charging circuit 256 receives the pulse width modulated signal from the microcontroller 240 and provides a charging voltage to the battery protection circuit 234.

The USB circuit board 252 also houses a USB power circuit 254 that is in operative electrical connection with the USB power receptacle 208. The USB power circuit 254 receives 5V dc current from the internal battery 207 through the battery protection circuit 234 (shown in fig. 21). When the USB power circuit 254 is enabled by pressing the USB power button 222, it provides 5V/2.4A of DC current to each USB power socket 208. The USB power circuit 254 provides the following features at the D +, D-lines of the USB power socket 208: a dispenser (dispenser) 1 DCP for supplying 2.7V per line; BC1.2 DCP for short between the D +, D-lines; the China telecom standard YD/T1591-2009 short-circuit Mode (short Mode) is used for short-circuit between D + and D-lines; and both D + and D-lines are 1.2V.

When the USB power circuit 254 is enabled, the USB power active LED 264 behind the USB power button 222 emits a steady green light. Similarly, when USB power supply circuit 254 is enabled, microcontroller 240 monitors a one-minute off detection circuit 292, which one-minute off detection circuit 292 sends a low current signal to microcontroller 240 in response to a pull-in current of less than 30mA through USB power socket 208. Upon receiving a one minute low current signal from the one minute off detection circuit 292, the microcontroller 240 will shut off the USB power circuit 254 to disconnect the 5 VDC from the USB power socket 208. Additionally, the microcontroller 240 monitors the voltage of the internal battery 207 through the battery protection circuit 234. If the voltage of each cell of the internal battery is below 2.8V or the total internal battery voltage is below 10V, the microcontroller 240 will shut down the USB power circuit 254.

Microcontroller 240 initiates the jump start sequence in response to pressing jump start switch 200 once from the off state. During the jump start sequence, microcontroller 240 causes a number of events to occur in a particular order. First, the microcontroller 240 verifies the charge of the internal battery 207. If the internal battery 207 has more than 50% charge (greater than about 11V output), the microcontroller 240 will continue the jump start sequence. Otherwise, the jump start sequence is exited.

The cross-over activation active LED 258 then flashes green for about 4 seconds, while the microcontroller 240 verifies the safety signals from the three cross-over activation protection circuits. If the reverse connection detection circuit 266 indicates that the charging cable clamp is attached to the wrong battery terminal, the jump start fault LED 260 will flash red until the jump start button 267 is pressed again to initiate the closed jump start circuit 236. On the other hand, if any other safety conditions are not met, the cross-over activation valid LED 258 may continue to flash green for up to 1 minute while the microcontroller 240 continues to monitor for satisfactory safety checks. After one minute of monitoring, microcontroller 240 will shut down the cross-over start sequence.

When the safety check is fully completed, the microcontroller 240 turns off the safety relay 238 to energize the ignition power socket 209 and emits a steady green light across the start active LED 258. The microcontroller 240 then starts a countdown of five minutes. During the five minute countdown, there may be up to three attempts to jump start the vehicle to which the electrical clamp is connected. To detect a successful or failed jump start vehicle attempt, the microcontroller 240 monitors the voltage at the ignition power socket 209. For each jump start vehicle attempt, microcontroller 240 will allow a starting current (up to 500A) to flow through ignition power socket 209 for up to four seconds. If the vehicle battery voltage continues to exceed 13.2V (which may cause a reverse current from the vehicle battery to the internal battery), a successful jump start is detected. If the vehicle battery voltage does not exceed 13.2V after four seconds of starting current has passed, a failed jump start is detected. At the end of the 5 minute countdown, or after a successful strap start, or after three failed strap starts, or whenever the electrical clamp is disconnected from the vehicle or the ignition power socket 209, the microcontroller 240 will turn on the safety relay 238 to disconnect the internal battery 207 from the ignition power socket 209.

Microcontroller 240 also continuously monitors the power draw power (power draw) during the five minute countdown period. Charger 200 is configured to provide almost 100A of sporadic auxiliary load current (radio, air conditioning compressor, etc.) until the first attempt to jump start the vehicle. However, if microcontroller 240 detects that the traction current continues for more than 30 seconds for more than 30A, the microcontroller will cause safety relay 238 to open and cause the jump start fault LED 260 to emit a flashing red light and the USB power LED to emit a flashing blue light.

Fig. 23 shows a microcontroller circuit board 242 that houses the microcontroller 240 as well as the LED floodlight 212, the floodlight button 218 and the cross-over activation reverse connection detection circuit 266. Pressing the floodlight button 218 once causes the microcontroller 240 to activate the LED floodlight 212 by gating the transistor 284. Pressing the flood button 218 a second time causes the microcontroller 240 to deactivate the LED flood light 212 by gating the transistor 284. The operation of the jump start reverse connection detection circuit 266 has been described above.

Referring to fig. 24, the ac power button 224 can be pressed once causing the microcontroller 240 to activate the ac inverter circuit 232 and pressed a second time to deactivate the ac inverter circuit 232. When ac inverter circuit 232 is active, microcontroller 240 causes ac power active LED 272 to emit a steady green light. If the AC circuit verification is not satisfactory, as described above, the microcontroller 240 causes the AC power source fault LED 274 to flash red.

Thus, the portable power charger 200 according to fig. 16-24 places the USB power source, the ac power source, the jump start power source, and the LED floodlight in a practical enclosure that can be hand-carried or carried in a purse or backpack.

Referring to fig. 25-26, an inventive jumper cable assembly 300 can be used in various embodiments of the invention, such as the embodiments of fig. 1-11 or 16-24. The vehicle starting cable includes positive and

negative jumper cables

302, 304 and positive and

negative sense cables

306, 308. These cables are bundled together in a connecting plug (gang plug)309, the connecting plug 309 being a modified EC5 type connector. One end of each jumper cable is in operative electrical connection with a respective alligator clip or electrical clip 310 or 311, and the other end of each jumper cable is in operative electrical connection with a

respective power plug

312 or 313, which plugs are deformed in accordance with the basic EC5 configuration. One end of each positive or negative sensing cable is in operative electrical connection with a

respective sensing contact

314 or 315, and the other end of each positive or negative sensing cable is in operative electrical connection with a

respective sensing plug

316 or 317, with additional modifications made to the EC5 plug structure. The

sensing contacts

314, 315 are received within respective electrical clips 310, 311 and are electrically insulated from the electrical clips by insulating pads 318. Each electrical clip 310, 311 further includes an upper handle 320, a lower handle 322, a spring 323, upper and

lower jaws

324, 326, and a wire 328 that operatively electrically connects the upper and lower jaws with the

respective cable

302 or 304.

In use, for example, with respect to the portable charger of fig. 16-24, the power plugs 312, 313 and sensing plugs 316, 317 plug into their

respective power sockets

286, 287 and

sensing sockets

288, 289. Thus, the positive power plug 312 is plugged into the positive power socket 286, while the negative sensing plug 317 is plugged into the negative sensing socket 289. When the positive electrical clip 310 is connected to the battery positive terminal, the positive sense plug 316 and the socket 288 are energized through the battery positive terminal via the positive sense contact 314. Similarly, when the negative electrical clip 311 is connected to the battery negative terminal, the negative sensing plug 317 and receptacle 289 are energized through the battery negative terminal via the negative sensing contact 315. As discussed above with reference to fig. 21, proper energization of the sensing jacks 288, 289-by attaching the positive and negative clamps 310, 311 to both ends of the battery to be charged-generates satisfactory clamp verification signals from the clamp verification circuitry 248. As described above, the electrical clamp verification signal is one of the safety signals that the microcontroller 240 must receive in order to energize the safety relay 238.

In an alternative design of the charger 200, a connector cable can be provided in order to use the charger 200 to charge the electric vehicle or to provide backup power for the electric vehicle. The electric vehicle connector cable can be adapted to fit into the ignition power socket 209 and include sufficient wiring to ensure proper compatibility with the electric vehicle's power port-e.g., to emulate a dc charging station. Alternatively, the charger 200 can be provided with a separate charging port specific to the electric vehicle on the charger housing 202. Further, the electric vehicle connector cable can be adapted for connection with one of the USB power outlet port 208 or the ac power outlet 210.

In any of the illustrated embodiments, the portable power charger according to the present invention may further include a solar panel, for example on the top surface of the charger housing, for charging the internal battery.

The foregoing descriptions of embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Obvious modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The described embodiments were chosen in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application to thereby enable others skilled in the art to utilize the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Claims

1. A battery jump starting electrical clip comprising:

an upper handle having a distal end and a proximal end;

a lower handle having a distal end and a proximal end, the lower handle pivotally connected to the upper handle between the distal end and the proximal end;

a first conductive jaw at a distal end of one of the upper handle and the lower handle;

a power cable extending from the first conductive jaw along one of the upper and lower handles on which the first conductive jaw is disposed;

A second conductive jaw opposite the first conductive jaw at a distal end of the other of the upper handle and the lower handle;

a power line operatively electrically connecting the second conductive jaw with the first conductive jaw;

a sensing pad at a distal end of one of the upper and lower handles; and

a sensing wire extending from a sensing contact along one of the upper handle and the lower handle where the first conductive jaw is disposed;

wherein the sensing contact is electrically insulated from the first conductive jaw.

2. The jump starting clamp of claim 1, wherein the sensing contact is disposed within a conductive jaw.

3. The jump starting clamp of claim 2, wherein the sensing contact is electrically insulated from the conductive jaw by an insulating liner disposed between the sensing contact and the conductive jaw.

4. The jump starting clamp of claim 2, wherein the sensing contact is biased toward the other of the upper or lower handles by a spring, wherein the spring is disposed between an insulating pad and a conductive jaw.

5. The jump starting electrical clamp of claim 1, wherein the electrically conductive jaw is an upper jaw attached to a distal end of an upper handle, further comprising a lower jaw attached to a distal end of the lower handle and a power cord operatively electrically connecting the lower jaw with the upper jaw.

6. A battery jump starting cable comprising:

a positive power cable and a negative power cable electrically insulated from each other;

a positive sensing cable and a negative sensing cable electrically insulated from each other and from the power cable;

a positive cross-over start electrical clamp having a conductive jaw in operative electrical connection with the positive power cable and a conductive sensing contact in operative electrical connection with the positive sensing cable, the sensing contact being electrically insulated from the conductive jaw;

a negative jumper start electrical clip having a conductive jaw in operative electrical connection with the negative power cable and a conductive sensing contact in operative electrical connection with the negative sensing cable, the sensing contact being electrically insulated from the conductive jaw;

the positive power plug and the negative power plug are electrically connected with the corresponding positive power cable and the corresponding negative power cable in an operating way; and

positive and negative sensing plugs in operative electrical connection with respective positive and negative sensing cables;

wherein the power plug and the sensing plug are provided in a universal connection plug.

7. The jump starting cable of claim 6, wherein the sensing contacts are disposed within respective conductive jaws.

8. The jump starting cable of claim 7, wherein the sensing contacts are electrically insulated from the conductive jaw by an insulating liner disposed between the sensing contacts and the conductive jaw.

9. The jump starting cable of claim 8 further comprising a spring mounted between the insulating pad and the conductive jaw.

10. The jump starting cable of claim 6, wherein the universal connection plug is a modified EC5 connector.

11. The jump starting cable of claim 6, wherein the universal connection plug has a positive power plug and a negative power plug of different shapes.

12. The jump starting cable of claim 6 wherein the universal connection plug has a power plug and a sensing plug configured to enhance the polarity of the universal connection plug.