GB2455375A - On demand access to a supply of electrical power - Google Patents

On demand access to a supply of electrical power Download PDF

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Publication number
GB2455375A
GB2455375A GB0811947A GB0811947A GB2455375A GB 2455375 A GB2455375 A GB 2455375A GB 0811947 A GB0811947 A GB 0811947A GB 0811947 A GB0811947 A GB 0811947A GB 2455375 A GB2455375 A GB 2455375A
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United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
user
network
connection
power
service
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
GB0811947A
Other versions
GB0811947D0 (en
Inventor
Kevin Yeandel
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
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Publication date
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Publication of GB0811947D0 publication Critical patent/GB0811947D0/en
Publication of GB2455375A publication Critical patent/GB2455375A/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02J—CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS OR SYSTEMS FOR SUPPLYING OR DISTRIBUTING ELECTRIC POWER; SYSTEMS FOR STORING ELECTRIC ENERGY
    • H02J7/00—Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries
    • H02J7/0042—Circuit arrangements for charging or depolarising batteries or for supplying loads from batteries characterised by the mechanical construction
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q20/00—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols
    • G06Q20/08—Payment architectures
    • G06Q20/12—Payment architectures specially adapted for electronic shopping systems
    • G06Q20/127—Shopping or accessing services according to a time-limitation
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q20/00—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols
    • G06Q20/30—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols characterised by the use of specific devices or networks
    • G06Q20/32—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols characterised by the use of specific devices or networks using wireless devices
    • G06Q20/325—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols characterised by the use of specific devices or networks using wireless devices using wireless networks
    • G06Q20/3255—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols characterised by the use of specific devices or networks using wireless devices using wireless networks using mobile network messaging services for payment, e.g. SMS
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F15/00—Coin-freed apparatus with meter-controlled dispensing of liquid, gas or electricity
    • G07F15/12—Coin-freed apparatus with meter-controlled dispensing of liquid, gas or electricity in which metering is on a time basis
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F17/00—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
    • G07F17/0014—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for vending, access and use of specific services not covered anywhere else in G07F17/00
    • H02J7/0027—

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  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Accounting & Taxation (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • Strategic Management (AREA)
  • General Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
  • Finance (AREA)
  • Power Engineering (AREA)
  • Charge And Discharge Circuits For Batteries Or The Like (AREA)
  • Mobile Radio Communication Systems (AREA)

Abstract

A device 10 which provides a connection between a user device and an electrical supply or service via the sending of a predetermined code or message by wireless communication and a timing device 14 which controls the length of time the device 10 is enabled to receive the power or service. The device 10 may be part of a network of such devices. The invention provides a power socket and temporary access to online services in public places. The invention allows hybrid vehicles, mobile phones, pdas and laptops to charge batteries and access other services. Payment enables activation of the services for a timed period.

Description

* 2455375
ON DEMAND ACCESS TO A SUPPLY OF ELECTRICAL POWER
This invention relates to a device providing on-demand access to a supply of power or other services.
The present invention has arisen from a consideration of the problems associated with the lack of power sockets and temporary access to on-line services in public places.
-It is now quite common to find in suitable public places, such as Airports, an electrical socket which can be used to power user devices such as mobile phones, laptop computers or other user devices which require a straightforward mains power supply and these sockets provide a useful service for primarily business users passing through the Airport.
It is also becoming increasingly common for the same suitable public places to provide access to USB (Universal Serial Bus) connections in similar manner to the electrical sockets, enabling connection of USB enabled devices to a publicly available hub arrangement.
In some circumstances, access to electrical power and/or USB or data input is available either free of charge or on an unmetered basis. The present invention is directed towards a device which allows connection to electric or * ** hybrid vehicles, mobile phones, PDA, laptops or other user devices to either S...
charge its battery and which can also provide access to other services via the * S....
* USB connection, if desired or if appropriate.
* . .*.
The problem with providing such systems is that there is no metering of the quantity of electrical power or service used during a user operation of the device when connected to the socket.
Accordingly, at best, such arrangements will operate on a fixed fee basis. The most desirable arrangement would be for the usage to be metered and payment made in accordance with the time (or quantity) of use of the services.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a device in which electrical power and/or other services derived from or via the device are obtained on a time limited basis and a suitable means of activation and deactivation is utilised and the quantity of power or other services and recordal during the period that the device is activated can be monitored.
Thus and in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a device operable to provide a connection between a user device and an electrical supply or service, said connection being operable to allow switching between a first mode in which a connection is not enabled and no power is supplied between the power supply and the user device, and a second mode in which the connection is enabled and at least one of power or another service is supplied to the user device wherein switching between the first and second mode is achieved by sending a predetermined code or message by wireless communication and when said connection is in the second mode, a * ** timing device acts to control the length of time the device is enabled and S...
supplying electrical power or other services to a user.
* The wireless communication means may include at least one of SMS,
* Bluelooth or NEC (near field communication). *.
It will of course be appreciated that the system of the invention offers a significant advantage over prior art arrangements due to the ease by which it is capable of monitoring usage of electrical power or other services.
Furthermore, the use of communication between the customer or user and the system to control the operation of the system is a completely new approach to such matters and the implications of use of a wireless message and/or code which, when sent, activates the connection for a limited time allowing a user to use the supply to access electrical power or other services (where provided) and the quantity of electrical power or other services utilised can be accurately monitored. Also the electrical power can be used to charge the user devices as normal or pay for a service for example a parking ticket.
Preferably, the switching between the first and second modes of the system of the invention is achieved by the sending of one or more wireless messages bearing an appropriate code to an appropriate provider who, upon receipt of the code, is operable to enable the connection between the power supply and the user allowing the user to use the power supply or service for any suitable use for a predetermined period of time. The time period for which the provider provides the electrical power or for which the other services are provided may be predetermined and charged to a user on a fixed or variable basis. For example the charge can be determined by time or quantity of use and can be a fixed period or an open ended period. If the S...
power supply is provided on an open ended basis then there can be a cut out time after which the power is disabled until a user confirms their continued *.....
* request for the power. This is a safeguard against unwanted continued use S. when a connection is inadvertently left on by a user.
At least two devices may be provided, the devices being part of a network. The network may be connected by at least one of a wireless or wired communication.
The or each device may comprise means to communicate with a user's device and/or another device in the network. This may comprise at least one of a receiver and transmitter for the communication of data.
The or at least one device in the network may have means to communicate with a remote service provider. The means to communicate with the remote service provider may be wireless and may include at least one of GPRS (general radio packet service) and internet. The means to communicate with another device in the network may comprise means to connect other devices in the network to the device enabled to connect to the remote service provider to connect said other devices to the service provider.
The or at least one device may comprise recognition means to recognise at least one further device and to incorporate said further device into a network.
The or at least one device may comprise a proximity sensor operable to monitor the presence of a user's device within a defined area surrounding * *a the device. The proximity sensor may have means to monitor the movement of the user's device and may detect the presence of an unauthorised presence or a user's device for which the service provided has expired.
S. .**I The invention will be described further by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:-Fig. 1 shows a schematic version of one embodiment of system in accordance with the present invention; and Fig. 2 shows a network of devices of the system.
Referring to Fig 1, there is shown one embodiment of device in accordance with the present invention.
The device 10 comprises a mounting box 11, which is adapted for wall or other surface mounting in a conventional manner. The mounting box 11 is preferably manufactured from a rugged vandal-proof material and is generally externally very similar to a conventional electrical surface mounted power outlet designed for its purpose.
In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1 the mounting box is divided into two separate receptacles 12 by an integrally formed dividing wall 12, each receptacle being roughly of equivalent size to a conventional single switched electrical socket mounting box. The remaining half of the box is designed to hold a device of the type of the present invention. The device is linked to the power supply to the socket and controls the accessibility of electrical power at the socket.
Device 10 comprises a circuit having a solid state or mechanical relay" * *S switch 14 mounted in the box which, when activated, allows the electrical *.S.
socket to be switched to "him", i.e. to supply electrical power to any device which is plugged into the socket. The relay switch 14 is connected to a ***** * control circuit 16 which is shown for clarity in the drawing as a single element *.
whereas, in fact, it will be appreciated that the control circuit 16 is an electrical circuit with a number of components which interact to provide the effect required and which will be described more fully hereinafter. The relay switch 14 is connected via the control circuit to a nine pin data output 17.
It can be seen from the figure that the electrical power supplied by the conventional electrical socket is controlled by the relay switch 14 which turns the electrical power on or off.
The circuit also includes a timer device which is linked to, or contained within, the circuitry which forms part of the device. The timer is arranged to limit the length of time that a user can expect to have power for use and will depend on the amount of money paid by the user. It is an advantage to have a timer device to limit the usage of power to a predetermined time in accordance with the sum of money provided or that the user is willing to pay.
The operation of the relay is controlled by the control circuit 16 which is linked to the data output. The control circuit 14 controls circuitry to handle SMS messages or data transmitted and in particular to switch on or off the electrical socket in accordance with the SMS message received.
As previously described, the device can also be arranged to provide access to other on-line services and this can also be controlled by SMS message or any other suitable arrangement. * *s
*1 It will be appreciated that whilst the preferred configuration of the * *** device will be as described in relation to the embodiment of Fig. 1, other * * : arrangements can be utilised which have the same or similar functionality as *SS*S * the device of the invention. The essential features of the arrangement of the invention is that the operation of the devices is controlled by use of SMS messaging or other wireless connection. Furthermore, the use of a control system mounted in the same mounting box as the device being controlled without any interference between the two devices.
Also, the wireless connection is utilised to connect the device to a switchable arrangement and read stored data in the control circuit such as usage etc. The data input can also be used to upload data or update software contained as part of the control circuit.
it will of course be understood that the invention is not intended to be restricted to the details of the above embodiment which is described by way of
example only.
Thus for example, it is possible for the electrical supply to be at any desired level for example it can range between a mains voltage of 230v to a transformed DC voltage of 12v. With such a range of voltages, many different types of device can be connected to the supply for charging or for use.
Examples would be the connection of a device to the supply for a charge such as for example anything from an electric vehicle to a mobile telephone, as
described in the specification.
Still further, the device can provide both an electrical supply operational via SMS, with a ticket device in combination. Tickets can be dispensed from * 4S the device in response to SMS text message. S... * I * S..
The device may also include a wireless transmitter and/or receiver of
I
*IS**S * : any suitable form which allows wireless communication between the device of S.....
the invention and any other device operated by the user. A proximity detector can be provided and which is operable to monitor the presence of an item within a defined area surrounding the device and can thus monitor the presence of, for example, a vehicle in a defined spatial relationship with the device. It is possible to monitor the movement of a vehicle which is parked within the wireless range of the device. In this way, it is possible to monitor the movement of vehicles parked nearby or the misuse of regulations in carparks. Furthermore it may also provide a car park operator the ability to know if a space is occupied or inform the car owner that the vehicle has been moved. It may also allow the patron to remotely purchase a parking ticket in the event they are delayed returning to their car.
A use of the device is shown in Fig. 2.
Where the device 10 has a wireless transmitter and/or receiver, it will enable selected other devices iDa, lOb, lOc, lOd which include a wireless transmitter and/or receiver within its wireless range to receive data thereby enabling transmission of information between a plurality of devices, If at least one device 10 has an Internet connection it will be possible also in such circumstances to provide an internet connection linking the wireless capability of the wireless transmitters. This network of devices may also comprise a further device lOe providing an internet/GPRS connection, in order to provide a back up connection. The device 10 may comprise recognition means which recognises when a further device has been added into the network and which forms the necessary connections to enable the device as part of the network.
An advantage of a device of the kind described above is that there is * : no external card or coin requirement to operate the device and therefore the I.....
device is essentially vandal proof.
Devices of the type of the present invention which include a wireless connection can communicate with each other to a maximum range and this may enable the communication between adjacent devices in accordance with the invention by way of text or other form of messaging service between the devices. Using devices of this kind, parking spaces in a carpark can be monitored and they can also provide the means by which a ticket relating to a carpark locality can be utilised to communicate via the transmission of necessary instructions from one device to another.
Insofar as electrical vehicles are concerned, as described previously, the device of the present invention can be used to provide the electrical supply to the car and, the supply of electrical power from the device can be provided in any suitable manner as desired or as appropriate.
Whilst SMS text messages have been described other forms of wireless communication could be used to operate the supply of power or services for example BlueTooth or NFC (near field communication technology) or a combination of such may be used. The device may be adapted to be operable by a plurality of such wireless services.
Whilst devices have been described as being connected by a wireless network, it is to be understood that the network could be wired or comprise a *:*::* 20 mixture of wired and wireless connections. *S*. * * *�.. * * S
S
*.*S** * * S. * S * *S. * S S S * S 55 * 2455375
ON DEMAND ACCESS TO A SUPPLY OF ELECTRICAL POWER
This invention relates to a device providing on-demand access to a supply of power or other services.
The present invention has arisen from a consideration of the problems associated with the lack of power sockets and temporary access to on-line services in public places.
-It is now quite common to find in suitable public places, such as Airports, an electrical socket which can be used to power user devices such as mobile phones, laptop computers or other user devices which require a straightforward mains power supply and these sockets provide a useful service for primarily business users passing through the Airport.
It is also becoming increasingly common for the same suitable public places to provide access to USB (Universal Serial Bus) connections in similar manner to the electrical sockets, enabling connection of USB enabled devices to a publicly available hub arrangement.
In some circumstances, access to electrical power and/or USB or data input is available either free of charge or on an unmetered basis. The present invention is directed towards a device which allows connection to electric or * ** hybrid vehicles, mobile phones, PDA, laptops or other user devices to either S...
charge its battery and which can also provide access to other services via the * S....
* USB connection, if desired or if appropriate.
* . .*.
The problem with providing such systems is that there is no metering of the quantity of electrical power or service used during a user operation of the device when connected to the socket.
Accordingly, at best, such arrangements will operate on a fixed fee basis. The most desirable arrangement would be for the usage to be metered and payment made in accordance with the time (or quantity) of use of the services.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a device in which electrical power and/or other services derived from or via the device are obtained on a time limited basis and a suitable means of activation and deactivation is utilised and the quantity of power or other services and recordal during the period that the device is activated can be monitored.
Thus and in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a device operable to provide a connection between a user device and an electrical supply or service, said connection being operable to allow switching between a first mode in which a connection is not enabled and no power is supplied between the power supply and the user device, and a second mode in which the connection is enabled and at least one of power or another service is supplied to the user device wherein switching between the first and second mode is achieved by sending a predetermined code or message by wireless communication and when said connection is in the second mode, a * ** timing device acts to control the length of time the device is enabled and S...
supplying electrical power or other services to a user.
* The wireless communication means may include at least one of SMS,
* Bluelooth or NEC (near field communication). *.
It will of course be appreciated that the system of the invention offers a significant advantage over prior art arrangements due to the ease by which it is capable of monitoring usage of electrical power or other services.
Furthermore, the use of communication between the customer or user and the system to control the operation of the system is a completely new approach to such matters and the implications of use of a wireless message and/or code which, when sent, activates the connection for a limited time allowing a user to use the supply to access electrical power or other services (where provided) and the quantity of electrical power or other services utilised can be accurately monitored. Also the electrical power can be used to charge the user devices as normal or pay for a service for example a parking ticket.
Preferably, the switching between the first and second modes of the system of the invention is achieved by the sending of one or more wireless messages bearing an appropriate code to an appropriate provider who, upon receipt of the code, is operable to enable the connection between the power supply and the user allowing the user to use the power supply or service for any suitable use for a predetermined period of time. The time period for which the provider provides the electrical power or for which the other services are provided may be predetermined and charged to a user on a fixed or variable basis. For example the charge can be determined by time or quantity of use and can be a fixed period or an open ended period. If the S...
power supply is provided on an open ended basis then there can be a cut out time after which the power is disabled until a user confirms their continued *.....
* request for the power. This is a safeguard against unwanted continued use S. when a connection is inadvertently left on by a user.
At least two devices may be provided, the devices being part of a network. The network may be connected by at least one of a wireless or wired communication.
The or each device may comprise means to communicate with a user's device and/or another device in the network. This may comprise at least one of a receiver and transmitter for the communication of data.
The or at least one device in the network may have means to communicate with a remote service provider. The means to communicate with the remote service provider may be wireless and may include at least one of GPRS (general radio packet service) and internet. The means to communicate with another device in the network may comprise means to connect other devices in the network to the device enabled to connect to the remote service provider to connect said other devices to the service provider.
The or at least one device may comprise recognition means to recognise at least one further device and to incorporate said further device into a network.
The or at least one device may comprise a proximity sensor operable to monitor the presence of a user's device within a defined area surrounding * *a the device. The proximity sensor may have means to monitor the movement of the user's device and may detect the presence of an unauthorised presence or a user's device for which the service provided has expired.
S. .**I The invention will be described further by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:-Fig. 1 shows a schematic version of one embodiment of system in accordance with the present invention; and Fig. 2 shows a network of devices of the system.
Referring to Fig 1, there is shown one embodiment of device in accordance with the present invention.
The device 10 comprises a mounting box 11, which is adapted for wall or other surface mounting in a conventional manner. The mounting box 11 is preferably manufactured from a rugged vandal-proof material and is generally externally very similar to a conventional electrical surface mounted power outlet designed for its purpose.
In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1 the mounting box is divided into two separate receptacles 12 by an integrally formed dividing wall 12, each receptacle being roughly of equivalent size to a conventional single switched electrical socket mounting box. The remaining half of the box is designed to hold a device of the type of the present invention. The device is linked to the power supply to the socket and controls the accessibility of electrical power at the socket.
Device 10 comprises a circuit having a solid state or mechanical relay" * *S switch 14 mounted in the box which, when activated, allows the electrical *.S.
socket to be switched to "him", i.e. to supply electrical power to any device which is plugged into the socket. The relay switch 14 is connected to a ***** * control circuit 16 which is shown for clarity in the drawing as a single element *.
whereas, in fact, it will be appreciated that the control circuit 16 is an electrical circuit with a number of components which interact to provide the effect required and which will be described more fully hereinafter. The relay switch 14 is connected via the control circuit to a nine pin data output 17.
It can be seen from the figure that the electrical power supplied by the conventional electrical socket is controlled by the relay switch 14 which turns the electrical power on or off.
The circuit also includes a timer device which is linked to, or contained within, the circuitry which forms part of the device. The timer is arranged to limit the length of time that a user can expect to have power for use and will depend on the amount of money paid by the user. It is an advantage to have a timer device to limit the usage of power to a predetermined time in accordance with the sum of money provided or that the user is willing to pay.
The operation of the relay is controlled by the control circuit 16 which is linked to the data output. The control circuit 14 controls circuitry to handle SMS messages or data transmitted and in particular to switch on or off the electrical socket in accordance with the SMS message received.
As previously described, the device can also be arranged to provide access to other on-line services and this can also be controlled by SMS message or any other suitable arrangement. * *s
*1 It will be appreciated that whilst the preferred configuration of the * *** device will be as described in relation to the embodiment of Fig. 1, other * * : arrangements can be utilised which have the same or similar functionality as *SS*S * the device of the invention. The essential features of the arrangement of the invention is that the operation of the devices is controlled by use of SMS messaging or other wireless connection. Furthermore, the use of a control system mounted in the same mounting box as the device being controlled without any interference between the two devices.
Also, the wireless connection is utilised to connect the device to a switchable arrangement and read stored data in the control circuit such as usage etc. The data input can also be used to upload data or update software contained as part of the control circuit.
it will of course be understood that the invention is not intended to be restricted to the details of the above embodiment which is described by way of
example only.
Thus for example, it is possible for the electrical supply to be at any desired level for example it can range between a mains voltage of 230v to a transformed DC voltage of 12v. With such a range of voltages, many different types of device can be connected to the supply for charging or for use.
Examples would be the connection of a device to the supply for a charge such as for example anything from an electric vehicle to a mobile telephone, as
described in the specification.
Still further, the device can provide both an electrical supply operational via SMS, with a ticket device in combination. Tickets can be dispensed from * 4S the device in response to SMS text message. S... * I * S..
The device may also include a wireless transmitter and/or receiver of
I
*IS**S * : any suitable form which allows wireless communication between the device of S.....
the invention and any other device operated by the user. A proximity detector can be provided and which is operable to monitor the presence of an item within a defined area surrounding the device and can thus monitor the presence of, for example, a vehicle in a defined spatial relationship with the device. It is possible to monitor the movement of a vehicle which is parked within the wireless range of the device. In this way, it is possible to monitor the movement of vehicles parked nearby or the misuse of regulations in carparks. Furthermore it may also provide a car park operator the ability to know if a space is occupied or inform the car owner that the vehicle has been moved. It may also allow the patron to remotely purchase a parking ticket in the event they are delayed returning to their car.
A use of the device is shown in Fig. 2.
Where the device 10 has a wireless transmitter and/or receiver, it will enable selected other devices iDa, lOb, lOc, lOd which include a wireless transmitter and/or receiver within its wireless range to receive data thereby enabling transmission of information between a plurality of devices, If at least one device 10 has an Internet connection it will be possible also in such circumstances to provide an internet connection linking the wireless capability of the wireless transmitters. This network of devices may also comprise a further device lOe providing an internet/GPRS connection, in order to provide a back up connection. The device 10 may comprise recognition means which recognises when a further device has been added into the network and which forms the necessary connections to enable the device as part of the network.
An advantage of a device of the kind described above is that there is * : no external card or coin requirement to operate the device and therefore the I.....
device is essentially vandal proof.
Devices of the type of the present invention which include a wireless connection can communicate with each other to a maximum range and this may enable the communication between adjacent devices in accordance with the invention by way of text or other form of messaging service between the devices. Using devices of this kind, parking spaces in a carpark can be monitored and they can also provide the means by which a ticket relating to a carpark locality can be utilised to communicate via the transmission of necessary instructions from one device to another.
Insofar as electrical vehicles are concerned, as described previously, the device of the present invention can be used to provide the electrical supply to the car and, the supply of electrical power from the device can be provided in any suitable manner as desired or as appropriate.
Whilst SMS text messages have been described other forms of wireless communication could be used to operate the supply of power or services for example BlueTooth or NFC (near field communication technology) or a combination of such may be used. The device may be adapted to be operable by a plurality of such wireless services.
Whilst devices have been described as being connected by a wireless network, it is to be understood that the network could be wired or comprise a *:*::* 20 mixture of wired and wireless connections. *S*. * * *�.. * * S
S
*.*S** * * S. * S * *S. * S S S * S 55

Claims (20)

T to CLAIMS
1. A device operable to provide a connection between a user device and an electrical supply or service, said connection being operable to allow switching between a first mode in which a connection is not enabled and no power is supplied between the power supply and the user device, and a second mode in which the connection is enabled and at least one of power or another service is supplied to the user device wherein switching between the first and second mode is achieved by sending a predetermined code or message by wireless communication and when said connection is in the second mode, a timing device acts to control the length of time the device is enabled and supplying electrical power or other services to a user.
2. A device according to Claim 1, wherein the wireless communication means includes at least one of SMS, BlueTooth tm or NEC (near field communication).
3. A device according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the switching between the *. 20 first and second modes of the system of the invention is achieved by *.*.
the sending of one or more wireless messages bearing an appropriate *s* ..S * : code to an appropriate provider who, upon receipt of the code, is ***** operable to enable the connection between the power supply and the user allowing the user to use the power supply or service for any suitable use for a predetermined period of time.
4. A device according to Claims 1, 2 or 3, wherein the time period for which the provider provides the electrical power or for which the other services are provided is predetermined and charged to a user on a fixed or variable basis.
5. A device according to Claim 4, wherein the charge is determined by time or quantity of use.
6. A device according to Claim 5, wherein the period is a fixed period.
7. A device according to Claim 5, wherein the power supply is provided on an open ended basis and cut out means is provided after which the power is disabled until a user confirms their continued request for the power.
8. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein there *.. 20 are at least two devices, the devices being part of a network. * S 5*5
S 555*5
*
9. A device according to Claim 8, wherein the network is connected by at 5.*S* * least one of a wireless or wired communication. ** * * * *** ** S * S * * S.
10. A device according to Claim 8 or 9, wherein the or each device comprises means to communicate with a user's device and/or another device in the network.
11. A device according to Claim 10, wherein the communication means comprises at least one of a receiver and transmitter for the communication of data.
12. A device according to any one of Claims 8 to 11, wherein the or at least one device in the network has means to communicate with a remote service provider.
13. A device according to Claim 12, wherein the means to communicate with the remote service provider is wireless.
14. A device according to Claim 13, wherein the means to communicate with the remote service provider includes at least one of GPRS (general radio packet service) and internet.
*::: 20
15. A device according to Claim 12, 13 or 14, wherein the means to S... * S
communicate with another device in the network comprises means to
S
S.....
: connect other devices in the network to the device enabled to connect *..
to the remote service provider to connect said other devices to the service provider.
16. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the or at least one device comprises recognition means to recognise at least one further device and to incorporate said further device into a network.
17. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the or at least one device comprises a proximity sensor operable to monitor the presence of a user's device within a defined area surrounding the device.
18. A device according to Claim 17, wherein the proximity sensor has means to monitor the movement of the user's device.
19. A device according to Claim 17 or 18, wherein the proximity sensor detects the presence of an unauthorised presence or a user's device for which the service provided has expired.
20. A device operable to provide a connection between a user device and an electrical supply or service constructed and adapted to operate substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings.
* .. S,. * a * * a a. * * .**
S * S * * a.
20. A device operable to provide a connection between a user device and an electrical supply or service constructed and adapted to operate substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings.
* .. S,. * a * * a a. * * .**
S * S * * a.
T to
1. A device operable to provide a connection between a user device and an electrical supply or service, said connection being operable to allow switching between a first mode in which a connection is not enabled and no power is supplied between the power supply and the user device, and a second mode in which the connection is enabled and at least one of power or another service is supplied to the user device wherein switching between the first and second mode is achieved by sending a predetermined code or message by wireless communication and when said connection is in the second mode, a timing device acts to control the length of time the device is enabled and supplying electrical power or other services to a user.
2. A device according to Claim 1, wherein the wireless communication means includes at least one of SMS, BlueTooth tm or NEC (near field communication).
3. A device according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the switching between the *. 20 first and second modes of the system of the invention is achieved by *.*.
the sending of one or more wireless messages bearing an appropriate *s* ..S * : code to an appropriate provider who, upon receipt of the code, is ***** operable to enable the connection between the power supply and the user allowing the user to use the power supply or service for any suitable use for a predetermined period of time.
4. A device according to Claims 1, 2 or 3, wherein the time period for which the provider provides the electrical power or for which the other services are provided is predetermined and charged to a user on a fixed or variable basis.
5. A device according to Claim 4, wherein the charge is determined by time or quantity of use.
6. A device according to Claim 5, wherein the period is a fixed period.
7. A device according to Claim 5, wherein the power supply is provided on an open ended basis and cut out means is provided after which the power is disabled until a user confirms their continued request for the power.
8. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein there *.. 20 are at least two devices, the devices being part of a network. * S 5*5
S 555*5
* 9. A device according to Claim 8, wherein the network is connected by at 5.*S* * least one of a wireless or wired communication. ** * * * *** ** S * S * * S.
10. A device according to Claim 8 or 9, wherein the or each device comprises means to communicate with a user's device and/or another device in the network.
11. A device according to Claim 10, wherein the communication means comprises at least one of a receiver and transmitter for the communication of data.
12. A device according to any one of Claims 8 to 11, wherein the or at least one device in the network has means to communicate with a remote service provider.
13. A device according to Claim 12, wherein the means to communicate with the remote service provider is wireless.
14. A device according to Claim 13, wherein the means to communicate with the remote service provider includes at least one of GPRS (general radio packet service) and internet.
*::: 20 15. A device according to Claim 12, 13 or 14, wherein the means to S... * S
communicate with another device in the network comprises means to
S
S.....
: connect other devices in the network to the device enabled to connect *..
to the remote service provider to connect said other devices to the service provider.
16. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the or at least one device comprises recognition means to recognise at least one further device and to incorporate said further device into a network.
17. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the or at least one device comprises a proximity sensor operable to monitor the presence of a user's device within a defined area surrounding the device.
18. A device according to Claim 17, wherein the proximity sensor has means to monitor the movement of the user's device.
19. A device according to Claim 17 or 18, wherein the proximity sensor detects the presence of an unauthorised presence or a user's device for which the service provided has expired.
GB0811947A 2007-11-27 2008-06-30 On demand access to a supply of electrical power Withdrawn GB2455375A (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GBGB0723197.0A GB0723197D0 (en) 2007-11-27 2007-11-27 On demand access to a supply of electrical power

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Publication Number Publication Date
GB0811947D0 GB0811947D0 (en) 2008-07-30
GB2455375A true GB2455375A (en) 2009-06-10

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GBGB0723197.0A Ceased GB0723197D0 (en) 2007-11-27 2007-11-27 On demand access to a supply of electrical power
GB0811947A Withdrawn GB2455375A (en) 2007-11-27 2008-06-30 On demand access to a supply of electrical power
GBGB0811948.9A Ceased GB0811948D0 (en) 2007-11-27 2008-06-30 On demand access to a supply of electrical power

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Cited By (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN102622829A (en) * 2012-03-28 2012-08-01 中国民航大学 Service integration settlement system for ground power supply and air conditioner set of civil airport
GB2507712A (en) * 2012-08-17 2014-05-14 Anthony Martin Charging device for mobile phone
GB2524807A (en) * 2014-04-03 2015-10-07 Payg Holding Bv An energy dispensing device and system
EP3424773A1 (en) 2017-07-04 2019-01-09 Elektron AG System comprising a network switch which can be controlled wirelessly using software tickets
CN111063115A (en) * 2019-12-30 2020-04-24 国网河南省电力公司南阳供电公司 Portable sharing intelligent metering device, method and application

Cited By (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN102622829A (en) * 2012-03-28 2012-08-01 中国民航大学 Service integration settlement system for ground power supply and air conditioner set of civil airport
CN102622829B (en) * 2012-03-28 2014-03-05 中国民航大学 Service integration settlement system for ground power supply and air conditioner set of civil airport
GB2507712A (en) * 2012-08-17 2014-05-14 Anthony Martin Charging device for mobile phone
GB2507712B (en) * 2012-08-17 2020-01-01 Martin Anthony Charging device
GB2524807A (en) * 2014-04-03 2015-10-07 Payg Holding Bv An energy dispensing device and system
EP3424773A1 (en) 2017-07-04 2019-01-09 Elektron AG System comprising a network switch which can be controlled wirelessly using software tickets
EP3424772A1 (en) 2017-07-04 2019-01-09 Elektron AG System comprising a network switch which can be controlled wirelessly using software tickets
CN111063115A (en) * 2019-12-30 2020-04-24 国网河南省电力公司南阳供电公司 Portable sharing intelligent metering device, method and application

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
GB0723197D0 (en) 2008-01-09
GB0811948D0 (en) 2008-07-30
GB0811947D0 (en) 2008-07-30

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