SE2151161A1

SE2151161A1 - Improved fluid storage container

Info

Publication number: SE2151161A1
Application number: SE2151161A
Authority: SE
Inventors: Carl Rudenstam; Joakim Samefors; Marcus Svensson; Tobias Lengle
Original assignee: Husqvarna Ab
Priority date: 2021-09-22
Filing date: 2021-09-22
Publication date: 2023-03-23
Also published as: WO2023047183A1

Abstract

[0040] A system for storing and facilitating handheld mobility of accessories for use with battery-operated outdoor power equipment includes a battery (165) and a container (100). The container (100) includes a fluid compartment (110) configured to store a fluid and a battery compartment (120) configured to removably retain the battery (165). The fluid compartment (110) includes a separate fluid reservoir (230) which may be configured to isolate the fluid from the battery compartment (120). The battery compartment (120) comprises a battery pocket (160) configured to removably retain the battery (165). The battery (165) is configured to operably couple with an external portion of the battery pocket (160) via a clip on the battery (165) that corresponds with a receiver on the battery pocket (160). The container (100) further includes an electronic device holder (180) that is configured to secure an electronic device (190) to the container (100). The electronic device holder (180) is configured to charge the electronic device (190) using electric current from the battery (165) via wireless charging or a wired plug.

Description

IMPROVED FLUID STORAGE CONTAINER TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] EXample embodiments generally relate to ﬂuid storage containers and, more particularly, relate to improvements for a combination storage container.

BACKGROUND id="p-2" id="p-2" id="p-2" id="p-2" id="p-2" id="p-2" id="p-2"

[0002] Fluid storage containers are commonly used in both commercial and private settings to store and transport ﬂuids for use with outdoor power equipment of various types. Such ﬂuids may include fuel, oil, a miXture of fuel and oil, a synthetic lubricant, n1ineral-based lubricants, or any other ﬂuid that may enable or enhance the operation of outdoor power equipment. Fluid storage containers can be used to store varying amounts of ﬂuid for what may be extended periods of time before the ﬂuid is utilized. id="p-3" id="p-3" id="p-3" id="p-3" id="p-3" id="p-3" id="p-3"

[0003] As outdoor power equipment design and functionality continues to evolve, the materials to support operation of the outdoor power equipment also evolve. Conventional fuel storage containers that support the operation of outdoor power equipment with gas-powered engines may no longer be sufficient, or even useful, for convenient operation of neXt- generation outdoor power equipment. As such, there is a need to improve the design and functional of ﬂuid storage containers and other devices that support the convenient operation of neXt- generation outdoor power equipment.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF SOME EXAMPLES id="p-4" id="p-4" id="p-4" id="p-4" id="p-4" id="p-4" id="p-4"

[0004] Some eXample embodiments may provide for a system for storing and facilitating handheld mobility of accessories for use with battery-operated outdoor power equipment. The system may include a battery and a container. The container may include a ﬂuid compartment configured to store a ﬂuid and a battery compartment configured to removably retain the battery. The ﬂuid compartment may include a separate ﬂuid reservoir which may be configured to isolate the ﬂuid from the battery compartment. id="p-5" id="p-5" id="p-5" id="p-5" id="p-5" id="p-5" id="p-5"

[0005] Some other eXamples may provide for a container for storing and facilitating handheld mobility of accessories for use with battery-operated outdoor power equipment. The l container may include a ﬂuid compartment configured to store a ﬂuid and a battery compartment configured to removably retain a battery. The ﬂuid compartment may include a separate ﬂuid reservoir Which may be configured to isolate the ﬂuid from the battery compartment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S) [0006] Having thus described some example embodiments in general terms, reference Will now be made to the accompanying drawings, Which are not necessarily draWn to scale, and Wherein: [0007] FIG. l illustrates a perspective View of a container according to an example embodiment; id="p-8" id="p-8" id="p-8" id="p-8" id="p-8" id="p-8" id="p-8"

[0008] FIG. 2A illustrates a right side View of the container in accordance With an example embodiment; id="p-9" id="p-9" id="p-9" id="p-9" id="p-9" id="p-9" id="p-9"

[0009] FIG. 2B illustrates a right side View of the container in accordance With an example embodiment; id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10"

[0010] FIG. 2C illustrates a left side View of batteries in accordance With an example embodiment; id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11"

[0011] FIG. 3 illustrates a right side section View of the container in accordance With an example embodiment; id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12"

[0012] FIG. 4 illustrates a left side View of the container in accordance With an example embodiment; id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13"

[0013] FIG. 5 illustrates a top side View of the container in accordance With an example embodiment; id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14"

[0014] FIG. 6A illustrates a front side View of the container in accordance With an example embodiment; id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15"

[0015] FIG. 6B illustrates a rear side View of the container in accordance With an example embodiment; id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16"

[0016] FIG. 7A illustrates a block diagram of the container in accordance With an example embodiment; and id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17"

[0017] FIG. 7B illustrates a block diagram of the container in accordance With an example embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18"

[0018] Some example embodiments now Will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all example embodiments are shown. lndeed, the examples described and pictured herein should not be construed as being limiting as to the scope, applicability or configuration of the present disclosure. Rather, these example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. Furthermore, as used herein, the term "or" is to be interpreted as a logical operator that results in true whenever one or more of its operands are true. As used herein, operable coupling should be understood to relate to direct or indirect connection that, in either case, enables functional interconnection of components that are operably coupled to each other. id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19"

[0019] ln some example embodiments, a container that includes support materials may accompany a user while the user is actively operating outdoor power equipment. The container may include a plurality of compartments, which may be utilized for storing items including ﬂuid (e. g., fuel, chain bar oil, or the like), batteries, electronic devices, and/or hand tools that may commonly be useful in conjunction with outdoor power equipment in various embodiments. Furthermore, outdoor power equipment can be internal combustion engine driven or electrically driven and in some cases both types may be present at a worksite. ln this regard, the outdoor power equipment may, at times, require an application of a working ﬂuid (e.g. chain oil), or the outdoor power equipment may sometimes require changing of a battery. As such, it may be desirable to be able to satisfy these needs by retaining batteries and ﬂuid in isolated compartments of a single mobile container that is convenient to carry to a worksite. Thus, creating a ﬂuid storage container that can retain a plurality of forms of aid for an operator of outdoor power equipment of various types may allow for a better overall experience operating outdoor power equipment. Additionally, according to some example embodiments, the container may be configured to retain a handheld electronic device, and the container may also be configured to charge the handheld electronic device as needed. Other functionalities may also be included, and the functionalities can be made completely independent of each other, or in combination with each other in any desirable configuration. Accordingly, the operability and utility of the container may be enhanced or otherwise facilitated. id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20"

[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective View of a container 100 according to an example embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the container 100 may include a ﬂuid compartment 110, a battery compartment 120, an external housing 125, and a handle 130. The ﬂuid compartment 110 may be configured to store ﬂuid. According to some example embodiments, the ﬂuid compartment 110 may be configured to store the ﬂuid entirely separate from the battery compartment 120 of the container 100. ln some embodiments, the external housing 125 of the container 100 may comprise a unibody structure molded from a plastic material that forms the general structure and exterior of the container 100. ln some other cases, the container 100 may comprise at least two structures (halves) molded from a plastic material that may be joined together in a Variety of Ways to form the external housing 125, including by using fasteners (e. g., screWs or the like), glues or other adhering substances,. id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21"

[0021] The handle 130 may be disposed such that a first connection 140 connects the handle 130 to the external housing 125 adjacent to the ﬂuid compartment 110 and a second connection 150 connects the handle 130 to the external housing 125 adj acent to the battery compartment 120. ln this regard, the handle 130 may support balanced Weight distribution of the container 100 so that the container 100 may be both carried and operated effectively. The handle 130 may be grasped by an operator in order to lift the container 100 or to secure the container 100. ln some embodiments, the external housing 125 may be formed from a plastic material. Various components including the ﬂuid compartment 110, the battery compartment 120, the handle 130, the first connection 140, and the second connection 150 may also be formed of a plastic material. [0022] The container 100 may further include battery pockets (160, 170). The battery pockets ( 160, 170) may be located Within the battery compartment 120 and may be configured to removably retain batteries (165, 175). The battery pockets ( 160, 170) may be configured as holes that may extend completely through a Width of the container 100. ln this regard, the battery pockets ( 160, 170) may include an internal surface and an exterior portion. The internal surface of the battery pockets ( 160, 170) may contact the batteries ( 165, 175) When the batteries ( 165, 175) are retained in the battery pockets ( 160, 170). id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23"

[0023] The external portion of the battery pockets ( 165, 175) may comprise a locking mechanism (167, 177) that may be configured to operably couple the batteries ( 165, 175) to the battery pockets ( 160, 170). ln some cases, the locking mechanism ( 167, 177) may be disposed only on one side of the container 100. ln some embodiments, the locking mechanism ( 167, 177) may comprise a clip and a receiver. In some cases, the clip may be disposed on the batteries ( 165, 175) and the receiver may be disposed on the battery pockets (160, 170). In some other cases, the clip may be disposed on the battery pockets ( 160, 170) and the receiver may be disposed on the batteries ( 165, 175). In either case, the clip may operably couple With the receiver responsive to the batteries (165, 175) being installed in the battery pockets ( 160, 170). In this regard, the clip may be spring biased or otherwise permitted to elastically deﬂect from a default position to engage With the receiver. The batteries ( 165, 175) may be configured to be installed in the battery pockets ( 160, 170) through an opening of the battery pockets ( 160, 170) on an exterior side of the container 100. When the batteries (165, 175) are retained in the battery pockets ( 160, 170), the clip may be operably coupled to the receiver. In some embodiments, a length of the batteries ( 165, 175) may exceed a Width of the external housing 125. In this regard, the batteries ( 165, 175) may extend beyond the external housing 125 When the batteries ( 165, 175) are retained in the battery pockets ( 160, 170). As such, the batteries ( 165, 175) may exceed the overall Width of the container 100. In some other embodiments, the batteries (165, 175) may be ﬂush With the external housing 125 When the batteries (165, 175) are retained in the battery pockets (160, 170). id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24"

[0024] The container 100 may further include an electronic device holder 180 that is configured to hold an electronic device 190, Which may be a mobile communications device. The electronic device 190 may be any of a plurality of electronic device 190 types including a communication device such as a mobile phone, a smartphone, a radio, a tablet or the like. In some cases, the electronic device 190 may be an outdoor power equipment control device such as a remote controller or a personal computer. In some embodiments, the electronic device holder 180 may comprise netting or a mesh material disposed across a Width of the electronic device holder 180. The material may secure the electronic device 190 in place so that it may remain secured to the external housing 125, even in the event of sudden or forceful movements of the container 100. In some embodiments, the electronic device holder 180 may be configured to secure the electronic device 190 to any exterior surface of the external housing 125 of the container 100, regardless of the orientation of the external housing 125. In some cases, the electronic device 190 may be secured to a surface of the external housing 125 proximate to the battery compartment 120. In this regard, the container 100 may be configured to utilize electric current provided by the batteries ( 165, 175) in order to charge the electronic device 190. In some embodiments, the electronic device holder 180 may be configured to wirelessly charge the electronic device 190 via inductive charging. ln this regard, the external housing 125 that forms part of the electronic device holder 180 may include an inductive coil for outputting an electric field to support inductive charging. According to some example embodiments, the inductive coil may be disposed on an internal surface of the external housing 125 and the electric field generated by the inductive coil may pass through the external housing 125 to charge the electronic device. However, seeing as not all electronic devices 190 are configured for wireless charging, in some other embodiments, the electronic device holder 180 may be configured to charge the electronic device 190 via a charging cord . id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25"

[0025] The container 100 may further comprise an accessory storage compartment 185. The accessory storage compartment 185 may be configured to provide storage for various accessory tools (not shown). The accessory tools may comprise tools that may be helpful for Working on and/or with outdoor power equipment. For example, a wedge, chain, various files for sharpening the chain, grinders, chain templates, or other tools such as wrenches, screw drivers, etc. may be stored in the accessory storage compartment 185. The accessory storage compartment 185 may be configured to operably couple to the external housing 125 of the container 100. ln some embodiments, the accessory storage compartment 185 may be adjacent to the ﬂuid compartment 110. ln some embodiments, the external housing 125 may be configured with attachment points formed in the plastic material that may be configured to operably couple with the accessory storage compartment 185. ln some example embodiments, the accessory storage compartment 185 may be a pocket or compartment in the external housing 125 that may or may not include a door, window, or lid that may be opened and closed. As such, the pocket or compartment of the accessory storage compartment 185 may comprise a closeable lid that may secure the accessory tools within the container 100. id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26"

[0026] FIG. 2A illustrates a right side view of the container 100 in accordance with an example embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the electronic device holder 180 may be provided with a release channel 200 formed into the external housing 125. The release channel 200 may allow an operator to more easily grasp the electronic device 190 from the electronic device holder 180 by providing space for the operator to gain leverage behind the electronic device 190 and subsequently release the electronic device 190 from the electronic device holder 180. ln some embodiments, the release channel may be molded or formed by removing material from the external housing 125. Also visible in FIG. 2 is a spout 210 with a ﬂow control adjustment 215. The spout 210 may allow the ﬂuid to exit the ﬂuid compartment 110 in a controlled manner which can be further adjusted using the ﬂow control adjustment 215 on the spout 210. The spout 210 may be secured in place by a threaded connector 220 which may comprise a gasket that may form a seal with the external housing 125. In this regard, the ﬂuid may only exit the ﬂuid compartment 110 through the spout 210. id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27"

[0027] FIG. 2B illustrates a right side view of the container 100 in accordance with an example embodiment and FIG. 2C illustrates a left side view of batteries (165, 175) in accordance with an example embodiment, respectively. In FIG. 2B, the batteries (165, 175) are not installed in the battery pockets (160, 170), thus revealing the internal surface of the battery pockets ( 160, 170). The internal surface of the battery pockets ( 160, 170) may comprise pocket terminals ( 168, 178) that may be configured to engage with battery electric terminals (169, 179) when the batteries (165, 175) are retained in the battery pockets (160, 170) in order to further secure the batteries ( 165, 175) within the battery pockets ( 160, 170) and allow for the ﬂow of electric current between the batteries ( 165, 175) and other components of the container 100. The location of the battery electric terminals ( 169, 179) and the pocket terminals ( 168, 178) on the side of the internal surface of the battery pockets (160, 170) may ensure the battery electric terminals ( 169, 179) and the pocket terminals (168, 178) do not get damaged or interfered with when the batteries ( 165, 175) are not retained within the battery pockets (160 170). When batteries ( 165, 175) are not retained within the battery pockets ( 160, 170), the internal surface of the battery pockets ( 160, 170) may be visible, and the battery pockets ( 160, 170) may provide visibility through the container 100. Further, the location of the battery electric terrninals (169, 179) and the pocket terminals ( 168, 178) on the side of the internal surface of the battery pockets ( 160, 170) may be desired for its proximity to the electronic device holder 180 to reduce length and complexity of wiring for the charger of the electronic device 190. Additionally, the pocket terminal ( 168, 178) may be positioned within the battery pockets ( 160, 170) on an internal wall opposite the ﬂuid reservoir 230. As such, a distance between the pocket terminals ( 168, 178) and the ﬂuid reservoir 230 (and the spout 210) may be maximized to avoid interaction between a ﬂuid in the ﬂuid reservoir 230 and the pocket terminals (168, 178). id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28"

[0028] FIG. 3 illustrates a right side section view of the container 100 in accordance with an example embodiment. The section view depicted in FIG. 3 shows the inside of the container 100, and in particular, the inside of the external housing 125. The ﬂuid compartment 110 may further comprise a ﬂuid reservoir 230 that may be separate from, yet situated within, the external housing 125. The ﬂuid reservoir 230 may comprise a plastic material and may be configured to isolate the ﬂuid entirely within the ﬂuid reservoir 230 in order to provide additional separation between the ﬂuid and other components of the container 100 such as the battery compartment 120 and the electronic device holder 180. ln this regard, the ﬂuid reservoir 230 may comprise a boundary 235 which separates the ﬂuid reservoir 230 from the external housing 125, and encloses all sides of the ﬂuid reservoir 230. ln some embodiments, the ﬂuid reservoir 230 may be configured to be pressurized and may contain non-liquid ﬂuids as well. The ﬂuid reservoir 230 may also include a support structure (e. g., cylindrical support structure) that comprises threads 225 and an opening at an end of the support structure that provides access to the internal compartment of the ﬂuid reservoir 230. Threads 225 may correspond with the threaded connector 220 so that the threaded connector 220 may operably couple the spout 210 to the ﬂuid reservoir 230. The support structure may extend away from the internal compartment of the ﬂuid reservoir 230 and through an opening in the external housing 125, where the threaded connector 220 may operably couple to the opening via threads 225. ln this regard, the ﬂuid may exit the ﬂuid reservoir 230 through the spout 210. Further, the spout 210, when coupled with the threads 225 need not contact the external housing 125, since a seal to the ﬂuid reservoir 230 may be formed between the spout 210 and the threads 225, without contact with the external housing 125. id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29"

[0029] The ﬂuid reservoir 230 may also be optimized to occupy some or all of the volume available within the external housing 125 of the ﬂuid compartment 110. ln some embodiments, the ﬂuid reservoir 230 and the battery compartment 120 may be disposed adj acent to each other. Thus, the ﬂuid reservoir 230 and the battery compartment 120 may be separated by boundary 235. Between the battery compartment 120 and the ﬂuid reservoir 230, the boundary 235 may be disposed vertically, extending from a top surface of the external housing 125 where the handle 130 is disposed, down to a bottom surface of the external housing 125 where the container 100 may contact a surface supporting the container 100. ln some other embodiments, the boundary 235 between the ﬂuid reservoir 230 and the battery compartment 120 may be disposed horizontally or at an angle. id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30"

[0030] FIG. 4 illustrates a left side view of the container 100 in accordance with an example embodiment. In some embodiments, the batteries (165, 175) may be configured to operably couple with the external portion of the battery pockets (160, 170) on both sides of the container 100 (i.e. on the external housing 125 at each end of the battery pockets 160, 170). In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4, however, the locking mechanism (167, 177) may only exist on one side of the container 100. In this regard, in the batteries (165, 175) may be released from the battery pockets ( 160, 170) responsive to an operator releasing the clip from the receiver and sliding the batteries ( 165, 175) out of the battery pockets ( 160, 170). The batteries ( 165, 175) may be configured to enter and exit the battery pockets ( 160, 170) only from one side of the container 100. In some embodiments, the entry and exit side of the battery pockets (160, 170) may be the same side that comprises the locking mechanism. In other words, the batteries (165, 175) may not be capable of moving entirely through the battery pockets ( 160, 170). id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31"

[0031] FIG. 5 illustrates a top view of the container 100 in accordance with an example embodiment. In some embodiments, the first connection 140 of the handle 130 may be disposed proximate to the spout 210 and the threaded connector 220 so that an operator can transport the container 100 as well as pour out the ﬂuid with greater ease. In some embodiments, the electronic device holder 180 and the electronic device 190 may be disposed proximate to the second connection 150 of the handle 130 which may allow the operator to have ease of access to the electronic device 190. Further, the ﬂow control adjustment 215 for the spout 210 may be configured to shift its position relative to the spout 210. In this regard, the ﬂow control adjustment 215 can alter the ﬂow of ﬂuid exiting the ﬂuid reservoir 230 through the spout 210. In some embodiments, the ﬂow control adjustment 215 may be able to stop the ﬂow of ﬂuid through the spout 210 entirely in order to best prevent any ﬂuid leakage. id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32"

[0032] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate a front side view of the container 100 and a rear side view of the container 100, respectively, in accordance with an example embodiment. In some embodiments, the threaded connector 220 may comprise larger protrusions that may allow for an operator to better grip the threaded connector 220 in order to rotate it. In some cases, the release channel 200 may extend for the entire width of the container 100. In some other embodiments, the release channel 200 may be a smaller and extend only for a length that is no greater than the width of the electronic device holder 180. id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33"

[0033] Again referring to the front side view of FIG. 6A, the container 100 may also include a ﬂuid level gauge. The gauge may take a number of different forms. For example, the gauge may include an moveable indicator needle that is operably coupled to a ﬂoat Within the ﬂuid reservoir 230 that causes the indicator needle to move to indicate an amount of ﬂuid Within the ﬂuid reservoir 230 based on the position of the ﬂoat. Alternatively, according to some example embodiments, the ﬂuid level gauge may take the form of a Window 126, as shown in FIG. 6A. ln this regard, the Window 126 may be an opening or translucent area on a side of the external housing 125 that extends vertically on the side (e. g., in a from a location near the bottom to a location near the top of the external housing 125). According to some example embodiments, the Window 126 may be disposed on the front side of the external housing 125. The Window 126 may permit visibility into an interior of the external housing 125, thereby providing visibility of a ﬂuid level 127. Since, according to some example embodiments, the ﬂuid may be disposed Within the ﬂuid reservoir 230, the ﬂuid reservoir 230 may also be translucent or include a translucent area that positionally corresponds to the Window 126 in the external housing 125 to permit visibility into the ﬂuid reservoir 230 and permit the user see the ﬂuid level in the ﬂuid reservoir. id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34"

[0034] FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate a block diagrams of the container 100 in accordance With an example embodiment. The container 100 may further comprise a battery management system 250. The battery management system 250 may control the charging of the batteries (165, 175) When the batteries ( 165, 175) are retained in the battery pockets (160, 170). ln some embodiments, the battery management system 250 may be configured With a cord that may operably couple the container 100 to mains power 240 to transfer electric current to the batteries ( 165, 175) in order to charge the batteries ( 165, 175) as needed. The battery management system 250 may also comprise processing circuitry that may be capable of sequentially charging the batteries ( 165, 175) by directing the electric current to prioritize one of the batteries ( 165, 175) at a time based on a set of criteria. The criteria may include but not be limited to, charge level of the batteries ( 165, 175), temperature of the batteries (165, 175), length of time retained in the battery pockets (160, 170), etc. ln some embodiments, the battery management system 250 may be disposed inside of the external housing 125 such that the charging cord may be the only component of the battery management system 250 visible on the external housing 125. ln this regard, the cord may be removably operably coupled to the external housing 125. ln some other cases, the battery management system 250 may be disposed outside of, and removably operably coupled to, the external housing 125 such that the battery management system 250 is visible when the container 100 is connected to mains power 240. ln any case, the battery management system 250 may be capable of sequentially charging the batteries (165, 175). id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35"

[0035] Some example embodiments may provide for a system for storing and facilitating handheld mobility of accessories for use with battery-operated outdoor power equipment. The system may include a battery and a container. The container may include a ﬂuid compartment configured to store a ﬂuid and a battery compartment configured to removably retain the battery. The ﬂuid compartment may include a separate ﬂuid reservoir which may be configured to isolate the ﬂuid from the battery compartment. id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36"

[0036] The system of some embodiments may include additional features, modifications, augmentations and/or the like to achieve further objectives or enhance performance of the container. The additional features, modifications, augmentations and/ or the like may be added in any combination with each other. Below is a list of various additional features, modifications, and augmentations that can each be added individually or in any combination with each other. For example, in some cases, the battery compartment may comprise a battery pocket which may be configured to removably retain the battery. ln an example embodiment, the battery pocket may comprise a through hole that may pass through an entirety of a width of the battery compartment. ln some cases, the battery may be configured to operably couple with an internal surface of the battery pocket and an external portion of the battery pocket at an installation entry end of the battery pocket. ln an example embodiment, the battery may comprise battery electrical terminals and the battery pocket may comprise pocket terminals. ln some cases, the battery electrical terminals may be configured to engage with the pocket terminals disposed on the internal surface of the battery pocket. ln an example embodiment, the battery may be configured to operably couple with the external portion of the battery pocket via a clip on the battery that may correspond with a receiver on the battery pocket. ln some cases, the container may further comprise a handle that may extend from a first connection adj acent to the ﬂuid compartment to a second connection adj acent to the battery compartment. ln an example embodiment, the container may further comprise an electronic device holder that may be configured to secure an electronic device to the container. ln some cases, the electronic device holder may be configured to charge the electronic device using electric current from the battery 11 via Wireless charging or a Wired plug. ln an example embodiment, the electronic device holder may be disposed proximate to the battery compartment. ln some cases, the container may further comprise an accessory storage compartment that may be configured to hold accessory tools for operating on the battery-operated outdoor power equipment. ln an example embodiment, the system may further comprise a second battery and a battery management system. ln some cases, the battery management system may comprise processing circuitry that may be configured to determine an order in Which to sequentially charge the battery and the second battery. ln an example embodiment, the battery management system may be disposed inside the battery compartment. ln some cases, the battery management system may be disposed external to the container. id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37"

[0037] Some other examples may provide for a container for storing and facilitating handheld mobility of accessories for use With battery-operated outdoor power equipment. The container may include a ﬂuid compartment configured to store a ﬂuid and a battery compartment configured to removably retain a battery. The ﬂuid compartment may include a separate ﬂuid reservoir Which may be configured to isolate the ﬂuid from the battery compartment. id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38"

[0038] ln some cases, the battery compartment may comprise a battery pocket that may be configured to removably retain the battery. ln an example embodiment, the battery pocket may comprise a through hole that may pass through an entirety of a Width of the battery compartment. ln some cases, the battery pocket may comprise an internal surface that may be configured to operably couple With the battery and an external portion at an installation entry end of the battery pocket that may operably couple to the battery. ln an example embodiment, the battery pocket may comprise pocket terminals that may be disposed on the internal surface of the battery pocket. ln some cases, the pocket terminals may be configured to engage With battery electrical terminals. ln an example embodiment, the container may further comprise an electronic device holder that may be configured to secure a mobile communications device. ln some cases, the electronic device holder may be configured to charge the mobile communications device via Wired or Wireless charging using electric current from the battery. ln an example embodiment, the container may further comprise a battery management system that may be configured to control charging of the battery While retained in the battery pocket. id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39"

[0039] Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forth herein Will come to mind to one skilled in the art to Which these inventions pertain having the benefit of the 12 teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated draWings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the inventions are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included Within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, although the foregoing descriptions and the associated draWings describe exemplary embodiments in the context of certain exemplary combinations of elements and/or functions, it should be appreciated that different combinations of elements and/ or functions may be provided by alternative embodiments Without departing from the scope of the appended claims. ln this regard, for example, different combinations of elements and/or functions than those explicitly described above are also contemplated as may be set forth in some of the appended claims. ln cases Where advantages, benefits or solutions to problems are described herein, it should be appreciated that such advantages, benefits and/or solutions may be applicable to some example embodiments, but not necessarily all example embodiments. Thus, any advantages, benefits or solutions described herein should not be thought of as being critical, required or essential to all embodiments or to that Which is claimed herein. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. 13

Claims

1. A system for storing and facilitating handheld mobility of accessories for use With battery-operated outdoor power equipment, the system comprising: a battery ( 165); and a container (100) comprising a ﬂuid compartment (110) configured to store a ﬂuid and a battery compartment (120) configured to removably retain the battery (165); Wherein the ﬂuid compartment (110) comprises a separate ﬂuid reservoir (23 0) configured to isolate the ﬂuid from the battery compartment (120).

2. The systern of claim 1, Wherein the battery compartment (120) comprises a battery pocket (160) configured to removably retain the battery (165); and Wherein the battery pocket (160) comprises a through hole that passes through an entirety of a Width of the battery compartment ( 120).

3. The system of claim 2, Wherein the battery ( 165) is configured to operably couple With an internal surface of the battery pocket (160) and an external portion of the battery pocket ( 160) at an installation entry end of the battery pocket ( 160).

4. The system of claim 3, Wherein the battery ( 165) comprises battery electrical terminals (169) and the battery pocket ( 160) comprises pocket terminals (168); and Wherein the battery electrical terminals (169) are configured to engage With the pocket terminals (168) disposed on the internal surface of the battery pocket ( 160).

5. The system of claim 3, Wherein the battery ( 165) is configured to operably couple With the external portion of the battery pocket (160) Via a clip on the battery (165) that corresponds With a receiver on the battery pocket (160).

6. The system of claim 1, Wherein the container (100) further comprises a handle (130) that eXtends from a first connection (140) adjacent to the ﬂuid compartment (110) to a second connection (150) adj acent to the battery compartment (120).

7. The system of claim 1, Wherein the container (100) further comprises an electronic device holder (180) configured to secure an electronic device (190) to the container (100).

8. The system of claim 7, Wherein the electronic device holder (180) is configured to charge the electronic device ( 190) using electric current from the battery ( 165) via Wireless charging or a Wired plug.

9. The system of claim 7, Wherein the electronic device holder (180) is disposed proXimate to the battery compartment (120).

10. The system of claim 1, Wherein the container ( 100) further comprises an accessory storage compartment (185) configured to hold accessory tools for operating on the battery-operated outdoor power equipment.

11. The system of claim 1, Wherein the system further comprises a second battery (175) and a battery management system (250).

12. The system of claim 11, Wherein the battery management system (250) comprises processing circuitry configured to determine an order in Which to sequentially charge the battery (165) and the second battery (175).

13. The system of claim 11, Wherein the battery management system (250) is disposed inside the battery compartment (120).

14. The system of claim 11, Wherein the battery management system (250) is disposed external to the container (100).

15. A container ( 100) for storing and facilitating handheld mobility of accessories for use With battery-operated outdoor power equipment, the container (100) comprising: a ﬂuid compartment (110) configured to store a ﬂuid; and a battery compartment (120) configured to retain a battery (165), Wherein the ﬂuid compartment (110) comprises a separate ﬂuid reservoir (23 0) configured to isolate the ﬂuid from the battery compartment (120).

16. The container (100) of claim 15, Wherein the battery compartment (120) comprises a battery pocket (160) configured to removably retain the battery ( 165); and Wherein the battery pocket ( 160) comprises a through hole that passes through an entirety of a Width of the battery compartment (120).

17. The container of claim 16, Wherein the battery pocket (160) comprises an internal surface configured to operably couple With the battery (165) and an external portion at an installation entry end of the battery pocket (160) that operably couples to the battery (165).

18. The container ( 100) of claim 17, Wherein the battery pocket ( 160) comprises pocket terminals (168) disposed on the internal surface of the battery pocket ( 160); and Wherein the pocket terminals (168) are configured to engage With battery electrical terminals (169).

19. The container ( 100) of claim 15, Wherein the container ( 100) further comprises an electronic device holder (180) configured to secure a mobile communications device ( 190); and Wherein the electronic device holder (180) is configured to charge the mobile communications device (190) via Wired or Wireless charging using electric current from the battery ( 165).

20. The container ( 100) of claim 15, Wherein the container ( 100) further comprises a battery management system (25 0) configured to control charging of the battery (165) While retained in the battery pocket (160).