WO2016109751A1

WO2016109751A1 - Modular apparatus for providing portable power and managing power consumption

Info

Publication number: WO2016109751A1
Application number: PCT/US2015/068196
Authority: WO
Inventors: Harpreet Singh GHOMAN
Original assignee: Jouler Inc.
Priority date: 2014-12-31
Filing date: 2015-12-30
Publication date: 2016-07-07
Also published as: WO2016109751A9

Abstract

A power bar may include a battery, a first electric outlet, and a first input/output (I/O) connection. The battery may be charged by receiving power from an external power source. The power bar may provide power stored in the battery to at least a first device via one of the first electric outlet and the first I/O connection while the power bar is disconnected from the external power source.

Description

MODULAR APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING PORTABLE POWER AND MANAGING

POWER CONSUMPTION

RELATED APPLICATION INFORMATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S.

Provisional Patent Application No. 62/098,743, filed on December 31, 2014, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

[0002] 1. Technical Field

[0003] Various embodiments described herein relate generally to the field of power chargers and more particularly to a modular apparatus providing portable power and managing power consumption.

[0004] 2. Related Art

[0005] The conventional extension cord and power strip are two exceedingly common consumer products, generally found in multiples in nearly every home and office on the planet. But they are also some of the most mundane and uninspired consumer products on the market. Borne out of a need to expand the range and the number of sockets in fixed wall outlets, conventional extension cords and power strips provide merely a rudimentary solution to a multi-faceted problem.

[0006] First, conventional extension cords and power strips generally come with a fixed number of outlets. When appliances outnumber available outlets, consumers improvise by creating dangerous "daisy chains" of interconnected extension cords and power strips. Conversely, outlets can remain unused and create an unsightly mess of surplus electric paraphernalia. [0007] Second, conventional extension cords and power strips must be manually unplugged or shut off in order to eliminate standby or vampire power drawn by appliances that are otherwise shut off or fully charged.

[0008] Finally, despite expanding the range of fixed wall outlets, conventional extension cords and power strips cannot deliver power on the go. That is, conventional extension cords and power strips remain fixed external power sources since neither would operate absent a wall outlet within close proximity.

SUMMARY

[0009] A power bar for providing portable power and managing power consumption is described herein.

[0010] According to various embodiments, there is provided a power bar. The power bar may include a battery, a first electric outlet, and a first input/output (I/O) connection. The battery may be charged by receiving power bar from an external power source. The power bar may provide power stored in the battery to at least a first device via one of the first electric outlet and the first I/O connection while the power bar is disconnected from the external power source.

[0011] These and other features, aspects, and embodiments are described below in the section entitled "Detailed Description."

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Aspects and features of the present inventive concept will be more apparent by describing example embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0013] FIG. 1 illustrates a power bar according to various embodiments;

[0014] FIG. 2 A illustrates a power bar set according to various embodim fieantFs; [0015] FIG. 2B illustrates a power bar set according to various embodiments;

[0016] FIG. 3 A illustrates a power dock according to various embodiments;

[0017] FIG. 3B illustrates a power dock according to various embodiments;

[0018] FIG. 3C illustrates a power dock according to various embodiments;

[0019] FIG. 4 illustrates a wall station according to various embodiments;

[0020] FIG. 5 illustrates an electric cord configuration according to various embodiments;

[0021] FIG. 6 A illustrates an electrical plug according to various embodiments;

[0022] FIG. 6B illustrates an electrical plug according to various embodiments; and

[0023] FIG. 7 is a network diagram illustrating a network environment according to various embodiments; and

[0024] FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating wired or wireless system according to various embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] While a number of embodiments are described herein, these embodiments are presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection. The apparatuses and methods described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form of the example apparatuses and methods described herein may be made without departing from the scope of protection.

[0026] FIG. 1 illustrates a power bar 100 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 1, the power bar 100 may include a plurality of surfaces including, for example, but not limited to, a front surface 110, a top surface 120, a bottom surface 130, a first side surface 140, a second side surface 150, and a back surface 160. [0027] In various embodiments, the power bar 100 may include one or more electrical outlets including, for example, but not limited to, an electric outlet 115. In one exemplary embodiment, the electric outlet 115 may be a National Electrical Manufacture's Association (NEMA) 1 (two-prong) or a NEMA 5 (three-prong) electric outlet. However, a person having ordinary skill in the art can appreciate that the electric outlet 115 may be a different type of electric outlet (e.g., NEMA 6) without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 1, the electric outlet 115 may be positioned on the front surface 110 of the power bar 110. However, a person having ordinary skill in the art can appreciate that the electric outlet 115 may be positioned on a different surface of the power bar 100 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the electric outlet 115 may have a fixed orientation. In other embodiments, the electrical outlet 115 may be configured to rotate partially or fully in a clockwise and/or counter clockwise direction.

[0029] Although the power bar 100 is shown to include a single electric outlet (e.g., the electric outlet 115), a person having ordinary skill in the art can appreciate that the power bar 100 may include additional electric outlets positioned on the front surface 110 and/or a different surface without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. [0030] According to one exemplary embodiment, the electric outlet 115 may be illuminated. For example, the electric outlet 1 15 may be illuminated using one or more light- emitting diodes (LEDs). In various embodiments, the illumination of the electric outlet 115

[ pProcopitf may be controlled by a switch. For example, in some embodiments, the illumination of the electric outlet 115 may be controlled using a touch sensitive control switch 145 positioned on the first side surface 140 of the power bar 100. However, a person having ordinary skill in the art can appreciate that the illumination of the electric outlet 115 may be controlled using a different mechanism (e.g., light sensor) without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0031] In various embodiments, the power bar 100 may include one or more I/O connections including, for example, but not limited to, a universal serial bus (USB) port 135. The USB port 135 may be positioned on the bottom surface 130 of the power bar 100. However, the USB port 135 may be positioned on a different surface of the power bar 100 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, a person having ordinary skill in the art can appreciate that the power bar 100 may include additional and/or different types of I/O connections positioned on the bottom surface 130 and/or a different surface without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0032] In various embodiments, the power bar 100 may further include an electric connection 125 positioned at the top surface 120. The power bar 100 may be connected to a detachable power cord (not shown) via the electric connection 125. In some embodiments, the detachable power cord may be attached at the electric connection 125 and may connect the power bar 100 to a wall outlet (e.g., for charging the power bar 100). Alternately or in addition, the power bar 100 may be connected to additional power bars via the detachable power cord attached at the electric connection 125.

[0033] A person having ordinary skill in the art can appreciate that the electric connection 125 may be any suitable connector without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. It is to be understood that the power bar 100 may include additional electric connections without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. [0034] In various embodiments, the power bar 100 may include a battery or battery pack (not shown). According to one exemplary embodiment, the power bar 100 may utilize power stored in the battery or battery pack to provide portable power to one or more devices (e.g., smartphone, laptop) via the electric outlet 115 and/or the USB port 135. In various embodiments, the power bar 100 may be adapted to provide rapid charging to at least some of the devices connected via the electric outlet 115 and/or the USB port 135. [0035] In some embodiments, the battery or battery pack may be charged while the power bar 100 is plugged into an external power source (e.g., wall outlet) via a detachable power cord attached at the connector 135. The power bar 100 may be disconnected from the external power source while still providing power (i.e., stored in the battery or battery pack) to one or more devices via the electric outlet 115 and/or the USB port 135. Advantageously, the power bar 100 is portable and is thus capable of providing power to one or more devices at any location away from the external power source.

[0036] Alternately or in addition, the power bar 100 may provide power to one or more devices while the power bar 100 is connected to the external power source. As such, the power bar 100 may be configured to simultaneously charge the battery or battery pack and provide power to one or more devices. When the battery or battery pack is fully charged, the power bar 100 may be configured to maintain the battery or battery pack at a fully charged level while providing power to one or more devices.

[0037] In one exemplary embodiment, the power bar 100 may be mounted in order to provide a temporary and/or additional wall outlet. In one embodiment, the power bar 100 may be attached to a mounting plate magnetically (e.g., via the built in pin magnets). Alternately or in addition, the power bar 100 may be mounted using a wall station configured

[ pProcopitf to fit over a standard household wall outlet. In various embodiments, the power bar 100 may also be mounted such as by using screws and self-tapping anchors that may be removed and reused when changing the location of the power bar 100.

[0038] In one exemplary embodiment, the power bar 100 may be configured to provide wireless connectivity. For example, the power bar 100 may be configured for short range (e.g., Bluetooth®) and/or long range (e.g., WiFi) connectivity. The operations of the power bar 100 may be controlled via one or more wireless connections (e.g., Bluetooth®, WiFi). For example, the power bar 100 may be turned on and off and/or set to operate based on a schedule wirelessly and/or remotely via the one or more wireless connections. [0039] FIG. 2 A illustrates a power bar set 200 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 2A, the power bar set 200 may include a plurality of power bars including, for example, but not limited to, a first power bar 210 and a second power bar 220. In various embodiments, the first power bar 210 and the second power bar 220 may each be implemented using the power bar 100 described with respect to FIG. 1. [0040] According to one exemplary embodiment, each of the first power bar 210 and the second power bar 220 may include pin magnets. In some embodiments, the pin magnets may be positioned along the back surfaces of each of the first power bar 210 and the second power bar 220. However, a person having ordinary skill in the art can appreciate that the pin magnets may be positioned along different and/or additional surfaces (e.g., side surfaces) of each of the first power bar 210 and the second power bar 220 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 2B illustrates the power bar set 200 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 2A-B, in various embodiments, the first power bar 210 may be connected to the second power bar 220 using the pin magnets included in each of the first power bar 210

WpProcopitf and the second power bar 220. Although the first power bar 210 is shown to be connected to the second power bar 200 along the back surface of each of the first power bar 210 and the second power bar 220, the first power bar 210 and the second power bar 220 may be connected along different and/or additional surfaces (e.g., side surfaces) without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 3A illustrates a power dock 300 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 3 A, the power dock 300 may include a plurality of slots including, for example, but not limited to, a first slot 310 and a second slot 320.

[0043] In various embodiments, each of the first slot 310 and the second slot 320 may be configured to accommodate a power bar (e.g., the power bar 100). The power dock 300 may further include a release mechanism 340 configured to release power bars from the first slot 310 and/or the second slot 320.

[0044] Although the power dock 300 is shown to include two slots (e.g., the first slot

310 and the second slot 320), a person having ordinary skill in the art can appreciate that the power dock 300 may include a different number of slots without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The power dock 300 may also include additional release mechanisms without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 3B illustrates the power dock 300 according to various embodiments. As shown in FIG. 3B, the power dock 300 may be configured to accommodate a plurality of power bars including, for example, but not limited to, a first power bar 315 and a second power bar 325. The first power bar 315 and the second power bar 325 may each be implemented using the power bar 100. The release mechanism 340 may be used to release one or both of the first power bar 315 and the second power bar 325 from the power dock 300. [0046] In various embodiments, one or more of the first power bar 315 and the second power bar 325 may receive power from an external power source via the power dock 300. For example, the batteries or battery packs included in each of the first power bar 315 and the second power bar 325 may be charged by receiving power from the external power source via the power dock 300.

[0047] FIG. 3C illustrates the power dock 300 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 3C, the power dock 300 may including a plurality of locking connections including, for example, but not limited to, a first locking connection 352 and a second locking mechanism 354.

[0048] In one exemplary embodiment, the power dock 300 may be connected to another power dock 300 using the first locking mechanism 352 and the second locking mechanism 354. For example, a custom sized extension cord or power strip may be created by connecting the power dock 300 to one or more additional power docks. The first locking mechanism 352 and the second locking mechanism 354 may both be configured to lock securely thereby preventing accidental power interruption and short circuits. [0049] In various embodiments, the power dock 300 may include one or more I/O connections including, for example, but not limited to, a first USB port 362 and a second USB port 364. A person having ordinary skill in the art can appreciate that the power dock 300 may include a different number and/or types of I/O connections without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 4 illustrates a wall station 400 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 4, the wall station 400 may include a plurality of slots including, for example, but not limited to, a slot 410. In various embodiments, the slot 410 may

WpProcopitf accommodate a power bar (e.g., the power bar 100 described with respect to FIG. 1). According to one exemplary embodiment, the power bar may receive power (i.e., to charge the battery included in the power bar) from an external power source via the wall station 400. A person having ordinary skill in the art can appreciate that the wall station 400 may include additional slots to accommodate additional power bars without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0051] In various embodiments, the wall station 400 may include one or more power plugs including, for example, but not limited to, a first power plug 420 and a second power plug 430 adapted to connect and anchor the wall station 400 to one or more electrical outlets. According to one exemplary embodiment, the wall station 400 may be configured to fit over a wall outlet. For example, in some embodiments, the first power plug 420 and the second power plug 430 may be a two or three prong plug that is compatible with a EMA outlet (e.g., NEMA 1, 5, and/or 6). A person of ordinary skill in the art can appreciate that the wall station 400 can a different number of power plugs without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0052] In one exemplary embodiment, the wall station 400 may be configured to provide wireless connectivity. For example, the wall station 400 may be configured for short range (e.g., Bluetooth®) and/or long range (e.g., WiFi) connectivity. The operations of the wall station 400 may be controlled via one or more wireless connections (e.g., Bluetooth®, WiFi). For example, the wall station 400 may be turned on and off and/or set to operate based on a schedule wirelessly and/or remotely via the one or more wireless connections. [0053] In various embodiments, the wall station 400 may include one or more I/O connections including, for example, but not limited to, a USB port 440. A person having ordinary skill in the art can appreciate that the wall station 400 may include additional and/or

WpProcopitf different types of I/O connections without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. [0054] FIG. 5A illustrates an electric cord configuration 500 according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 5A, a first electric cord 510 may be joined with a second electric cord 520. As shown in FIG. 5A, the first electric cord 510 may include a female connector 532 and the second electric cord 520 may include a male connector 534. The first electric cord 510 may be joined to the second electric cord 520 by joining together the female connector 532 and the male connector 534.

[0055] In one exemplary embodiment, a plurality of power bars (e.g., the power bar

100) and/or power docks (e.g., the power dock 300) may be joined together based on the electric cord configuration 510. For example, the first electric cord 510 may be connected to a power bar (or a power dock) and the second electric cord 520 may be connected to another power bar (or power dock). Joining together the first electric cord 510 and the second electric cord 520 also couples the power bars (or power docks).

[0056] Alternately, the first electric cord 510 may be extended by joining the first electric cord 510 together with the second electric cord 520. The first electric cord 510 may be connected a power bar (or a power dock) and joining together the first electric cord 510 and the second electric cord 520 extends the range of the power bar (or power dock) such that the power bar (or the power dock) may be placed father away from an external power source (e.g., wall outlet). It is to be understood that any suitable number of electric cords, power bars, and power docks may be joined together without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0057] FIG. 6A illustrates an electric plug 600 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 5A-B and 6A, in various embodiments, the first electric cord 510 (or the second electric cord 520) may be connected to the electric plug 600. For example, the

[ pProcopitf electric plug 600 may include a male connector 610 that may be connected to the female connector 532 of the first electric cord 510.

[0058] The electric cord 510 may be connected to a power bar (e.g., the power bar

100), a power dock (e.g., the power dock 300), or another electric cord (e.g., the second electric cord 520). According to one exemplary embodiment, the electric plug 600 may be connected to a series of a plurality of electric cords that have been joined together including, for example, but not limited to, the first electric cord 510 and the second electric cord 520. As such, using the electrical plug 600 and a suitable number of electric cords, the power bar or the power dock may be connected to an external power source (e.g., a wall outlet) that is any distance away.

[0059] FIG. 6B illustrates the electric plug 600 according to various embodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 6A-B, in some embodiments, the electrical plug 600 may be configured to rotate (e.g., 360 degrees). As such, one or more electric cords (e.g., the first electric cord 510) and power bars (or power docks) connected to the electric plug 600 may be placed in any position and/or orientation relative to the electric plug 600.

[0060] Although the electric plug 600 is shown to rotate in a clockwise direction, a person having ordinary skill in the art can appreciate that the electric plug 600 may be configured to rotate in a counter clockwise direction instead or in addition without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0061] FIG. 7 is a network diagram illustrating a network environment 700 according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 7, in various embodiments, the power bar 100, the power dock 300, and the wall station 400 (not shown) may each be configured to communicate with one or more devices including, for example, but not limited to, a first

WpProcopitf device 730 and a second device 740. The first device 730 and the second device 740 may be any device capable of wireless communication including, for example, but not limited to, a smartphone, tablet personal computer (PC), desktop PC, or laptop computer. [0062] In various embodiments, the power bar 100, the power dock 300, and the wall station 400 may provide short range (e.g., Bluetooth®) and/or long range (e.g., WiFi) wireless connectivity. For example, the power bar 100, the power dock 300, and the wall station 400 may communicate with the first device 730 via Bluetooth® and with the second device 740 via a communication network 720. In various embodiments, the communication network 720 may be the Internet, and can include wireless and wired WANs, LANs, and PANs.

[0063] According to one exemplary embodiment, the power bar 100, the power dock

300, and the wall station 400 may receive power management data from the first device 730 and/or the second device 740. In various embodiments, power management data may include commands and configurations. For example, the power bar 100, the power dock 300, and the wall station 400 may receive on/off commands and/or settings from the first device 730 and/or the second device 740.

[0064] In one exemplary embodiment, the power bar 100, the power dock 300, and the wall station 400 may be controlled and/or configured via an application installed on the first device 730 and/or the second device 740. A user may input desired commands and settings using the application. In some embodiments, the commands and settings may be transmitted directly to the power bar 100. Alternately or in addition, in some embodiments, the commands and settings may be transmitted to the power dock 300 or the wall station 400 within which the power ball 100 is placed.

[0065] According to one exemplary embodiment, multiple electrical outletsie.g., the

[ pProcopitf electric outlet 115) may be powered on and off individually or in groups via commands sent to the power bar 100, the power dock 300, and/or the wall station 400. For example, a user may use the application to group together multiple electric outlets and/or power bars, and use the application to transmit a command to simultaneously power on or off electronic appliances plugged into the corresponding electric outlets and/or power bars.

[0066] In various embodiments, the power bar 100, the power dock 300, and the wall station 400 may be configured (e.g. using application) to operate according to a preset schedule or timer. For example, the power bar 100, the power dock 300, and/or the wall station 400 may be programmed to power on and off individual or groups of electric appliances at specific times.

[0067] FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating is a block diagram illustrating wired or wireless system 550 according to various embodiments. Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the system 550 may be used to implement first device 730 and the second device 740.

[0068] In various embodiments, the system 550 may also implement a power (e.g., the power bar 100, the first power bar 210, the second power bar 220, the first power bar 315, and the second power bar 325). For example, the system 550 may regulate the flow of power from an external power source to the battery of the power bar and/or the one or more devices via one or more of an electric outlet (e.g., the electric outlet 115) and an I/O connection (e.g., the USB port 135) on the power bar.

[0069] In various embodiments, the system 550 may also implement the power dock

300. For example, the system 550 may regulate the flow of power from an external power source to one or more of the first power bar 315, the second power bar 325, the first USB port 362, the second USB port 364, and one or more devices connected to the power dock 300 via any of the foregoing. [0070] In various embodiments, the system 550 may also implement the wall station

400. The system 550 may regulate the flow of power from an external power source to a power bar (e.g., the power bar 100) positioned within the wall station 400. [0071] In various embodiments, the system 550 can be a conventional personal computer, computer server, personal digital assistant, smart phone, tablet computer, or any other processor enabled device that is capable of wired or wireless data communication. Other computer systems and/or architectures may be also used, as will be clear to those skilled in the art.

[0072] The system 550 preferably includes one or more processors, such as processor

560. Additional processors may be provided, such as an auxiliary processor to manage input/output, an auxiliary processor to perform floating point mathematical operations, a special-purpose microprocessor having an architecture suitable for fast execution of signal processing algorithms (e.g., digital signal processor), a slave processor subordinate to the main processing system (e.g., back-end processor), an additional microprocessor or controller for dual or multiple processor systems, or a coprocessor. Such auxiliary processors may be discrete processors or may be integrated with the processor 560.

[0073] The processor 560 is preferably connected to a communication bus 555. The communication bus 555 may include a data channel for facilitating information transfer between storage and other peripheral components of the system 550. The communication bus 555 further may provide a set of signals used for communication with the processor 560, including a data bus, address bus, and control bus (not shown). The communication bus 555 may comprise any standard or non-standard bus architecture such as, for example, bus architectures compliant with industry standard architecture ("ISA"), extended industry

WpProcopitf standard architecture ("EISA"), Micro Channel Architecture ("MCA"), peripheral component interconnect ("PCI") local bus, or standards promulgated by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers ("IEEE") including IEEE 488 general-purpose interface bus ("GPIB"), IEEE 696/S-100, and the like.

[0074] The system 550 preferably includes a main memory 565 and may also include a secondary memory 570. The main memory 565 provides storage of instructions and data for programs executing on the processor 560. The main memory 565 is typically semiconductor-based memory such as dynamic random access memory ("DRAM") and/or static random access memory ("SRAM"). Other semiconductor-based memory types include, for example, synchronous dynamic random access memory ("SDRAM"), Rambus dynamic random access memory ("RDRAM"), ferroelectric random access memory ("FRAM"), and the like, including read only memory ("ROM").

[0075] The secondary memory 570 may optionally include an internal memory 575 and/or a removable storage medium 580, for example a floppy disk drive, a magnetic tape drive, a compact disc ("CD") drive, a digital versatile disc ("DVD") drive, etc. The removable storage medium 580 is read from and/or written to in a well-known manner. Removable storage medium 580 may be, for example, a floppy disk, magnetic tape, CD, DVD, SD card, etc.

[0076] The removable storage medium 580 is a non-transitory computer readable medium having stored thereon computer executable code (i.e., software) and/or data. The computer software or data stored on the removable storage medium 580 is read into the system 550 for execution by the processor 560.

[0077] In alternative embodiments, the secondary memory 570 may include other similar means for allowing computer programs or other data or instructions to be loaded into

WpProcopitf the system 550. Such means may include, for example, an external storage medium 595 and a communication interface 590. Examples of external storage medium 595 may include an external hard disk drive or an external optical drive, or and external magneto-optical drive. [0078] Other examples of secondary memory 570 may include semiconductor-based memory such as programmable read-only memory ("PROM"), erasable programmable readonly memory ("EPROM"), electrically erasable read-only memory ("EEPROM"), or flash memory (block oriented memory similar to EEPROM). Also included are the removable storage medium 580 and a communication interface, which allow software and data to be transferred from an external storage medium 595 to the system 550.

[0079] System 550 may also include an input/output ("I/O") interface 585. The I/O interface 585 facilitates input from and output to external devices. For example the I/O interface 585 may receive input from a keyboard or mouse and may provide output to a display. The I/O interface 585 is capable of facilitating input from and output to various alternative types of human interface and machine interface devices alike. [0080] System 550 may also include a communication interface 590. The communication interface 590 allows software and data to be transferred between system 550 and external devices (e.g. printers), networks, or information sources. For example, computer software or executable code may be transferred to system 550 from a network server via communication interface 590. Examples of communication interface 590 include a modem, a network interface card ("NIC"), a wireless data card, a communications port, a PCMCIA slot and card, an infrared interface, and an IEEE 1394 fire-wire, just to name a few. [0081] Communication interface 590 preferably implements industry promulgated protocol standards, such as Ethernet IEEE 802 standards, Fiber Channel, digital subscriber line ("DSL"), asynchronous digital subscriber line ("ADSL"), frame relay, asynchronous

[ pProcopitf transfer mode ("ATM"), integrated digital services network ("ISDN"), personal communications services ("PCS"), transmission control protocol/Internet protocol ("TCP/IP"), serial line Internet protocol/point to point protocol ("SLIP/PPP"), and so on, but may also implement customized or non-standard interface protocols as well. [0082] Software and data transferred via communication interface 590 are generally in the form of electrical communication signals 605. The electrical communication signals 605 are preferably provided to communication interface 590 via a communication channel 600. In one embodiment, the communication channel 600 may be a wired or wireless network, or any variety of other communication links. Communication channel 600 carries the electrical communication signals 605 and can be implemented using a variety of wired or wireless communication means including wire or cable, fiber optics, conventional phone line, cellular phone link, wireless data communication link, radio frequency ("RF") link, or infrared link, just to name a few.

[0083] Computer executable code (i.e., computer programs or software) is stored in the main memory 565 and/or the secondary memory 570. Computer programs can also be received via communication interface 590 and stored in the main memory 565 and/or the secondary memory 570. Such computer programs, when executed, enable the system 550 to perform the various functions of the present invention as previously described. [0084] In this description, the term "computer readable medium" is used to refer to any non-transitory computer readable storage media used to provide computer executable code (e.g., software and computer programs) to the system 550. Examples of these media include main memory 565, secondary memory 570 (including internal memory 575, removable storage medium 580, and external storage medium 595), and any peripheral device communicatively coupled with communication interface 590 (including a network

WpProcopitf information server or other network device). These non-transitory computer readable mediums are means for providing executable code, programming instructions, and software to the system 550.

[0085] In an embodiment that is implemented using software, the software may be stored on a computer readable medium and loaded into the system 550 by way of removable storage medium 580, I/O interface 585, or communication interface 590. In such an embodiment, the software is loaded into the system 550 in the form of electrical communication signals 605. The software, when executed by the processor 560, preferably causes the processor 560 to perform the inventive features and functions previously described herein.

[0086] The system 550 also includes optional wireless communication components that facilitate wireless communication over a voice and over a data network. The wireless communication components comprise an antenna system 610, a radio system 615 and a baseband system 620. In the system 550, radio frequency ("RF") signals are transmitted and received over the air by the antenna system 610 under the management of the radio system 615.

[0087] In one embodiment, the antenna system 610 may comprise one or more antennae and one or more multiplexors (not shown) that perform a switching function to provide the antenna system 610 with transmit and receive signal paths. In the receive path, received RF signals can be coupled from a multiplexor to a low noise amplifier (not shown) that amplifies the received RF signal and sends the amplified signal to the radio system 615. [0088] In alternative embodiments, the radio system 615 may comprise one or more radios that are configured to communicate over various frequencies. In one embodiment, the radio system 615 may combine a demodulator (not shown) and modulator (not shown) in one

WpProcopitf integrated circuit ("IC"). The demodulator and modulator can also be separate components. In the incoming path, the demodulator strips away the RF carrier signal leaving a baseband receive audio signal, which is sent from the radio system 615 to the baseband system 620.

[0089] If the received signal contains audio information, then baseband system 620 decodes the signal and converts it to an analog signal. Then the signal is amplified and sent to a speaker. The baseband system 620 also receives analog audio signals from a microphone. These analog audio signals are converted to digital signals and encoded by the baseband system 620. The baseband system 620 also codes the digital signals for transmission and generates a baseband transmit audio signal that is routed to the modulator portion of the radio system 615. The modulator mixes the baseband transmit audio signal with an RF carrier signal generating an RF transmit signal that is routed to the antenna system and may pass through a power amplifier (not shown). The power amplifier amplifies the RF transmit signal and routes it to the antenna system 610 where the signal is switched to the antenna port for transmission.

[0090] The baseband system 620 is also communicatively coupled with the processor

560. The processor 560 has access to one or more data storage areas including, for example, but not limited to, the main memory 565 and the secondary memory 570. The processor 560 is preferably configured to execute instructions (i.e., computer programs or software) that can be stored in the main memory 565 or in the secondary memory 570. Computer programs can also be received from the baseband processor 610 and stored in the main memory 565 or in the secondary memory 570, or executed upon receipt. Such computer programs, when executed, enable the system 550 to perform the various functions of the present invention as previously described. For example, the main memory 565 may include various software modules (not shown) that are executable by processor 560. [0091] The accompanying claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications as would fall within the scope and spirit of the protection. For example, the example apparatuses, methods, and systems disclosed herein may be applied to multi-SIM wireless devices subscribing to multiple communication networks and/or communication technologies. The various components illustrated in the figures may be implemented as, for example, but not limited to, software and/or firmware on a processor, ASIC/FPGA/DSP, or dedicated hardware. Also, the features and attributes of the specific example embodiments disclosed above may be combined in different ways to form additional embodiments, all of which fall within the scope of the present disclosure. [0092] The foregoing method descriptions and the process flow diagrams are provided merely as illustrative examples and are not intended to require or imply that the steps of the various embodiments must be performed in the order presented. As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art the order of steps in the foregoing embodiments may be performed in any order. Words such as "thereafter," "then," "next," etc. are not intended to limit the order of the steps; these words are simply used to guide the reader through the description of the methods. Further, any reference to claim elements in the singular, for example, using the articles "a," "an," or "the" is not to be construed as limiting the element to the singular.

[0093] The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, circuits, and algorithm steps described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or combinations of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability of hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their

WpProcopitf functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. Skilled artisans may implement the described functionality in varying ways for each particular application, but such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of the present invention.

[0094] The hardware used to implement the various illustrative logics, logical blocks, modules, and circuits described in connection with the various embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented or performed with a general purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but, in the alternative, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of receiver devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. Alternatively, some steps or methods may be performed by circuitry that is specific to a given function.

[0095] In one or more exemplary embodiments, the functions described may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, the functions may be stored as one or more instructions or code on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium or non-transitory processor-readable storage medium. The steps of a method or algorithm disclosed herein may be embodied in processor- executable instructions that may reside on a non-transitory computer-readable or processor- rfpProcopitf readable storage medium. Non-transitory computer-readable or processor-readable storage media may be any storage media that may be accessed by a computer or a processor. By way of example but not limitation, such non-transitory computer-readable or processor-readable storage media may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), FLASH memory, CD- ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that may be used to store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and that may be accessed by a computer. Disk and disc, as used herein, includes compact disc (CD), laser disc, optical disc, digital versatile disc (DVD), floppy disk, and Blu-ray disc where disks usually reproduce data magnetically, while discs reproduce data optically with lasers. Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of non-transitory computer-readable and processor-readable media. Additionally, the operations of a method or algorithm may reside as one or any combination or set of codes and/or instructions on a non-transitory processor-readable storage medium and/or computer- readable storage medium, which may be incorporated into a computer program product.

[0096] Although the present disclosure provides certain example embodiments and applications, other embodiments that are apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, including embodiments which do not provide all of the features and advantages set forth herein, are also within the scope of this disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure is intended to be defined only by reference to the appended claims.

Claims

What is Claimed:

1. A power bar, comprising:

a battery;

a first electric outlet; and

a first input/output (I/O) connection;

wherein the battery is charged by receiving power from an external power source, and wherein the power bar provides power stored in the battery to at least a first device via one of the first electric outlet and the first I/O connection while the power bar is disconnected from the external power source.

2. The power bar of claim 1, wherein the first electric outlet comprises one of a National Electric Manufacturer's Association (NEMA) 1 electric outlet, a NEMA 5 electric outlet, and NEMA 6 electric outlet.

3. The power bar of claim 1, wherein the first I/O connection comprises universal serial bus (USB) port.

4. The power bar of claim 1, further comprising one or more of a second electric outlet and a second I/O connection.

5. The power bar of claim 1, wherein the battery is charged while the power bar simultaneously provides power to at least the first device via one of the first electric outlet and the first I/O connection.

6. The power bar of claim 5, wherein the power bar is configured to maintain the battery at a fully charged level while the battery is being charged simultaneously as the power bar provides power to at least the first device.

7. The power bar of claim 1, wherein the first electric outlet is illuminated.

8. The power bar of claim 7, wherein the first electric outlet is illuminated using one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs).

9. The power bar is claim 7, further comprising a switch configured to control the illumination of the first electric outlet.

10. The power bar of claim 9, wherein the switch comprises a touch sensitive control.

11. The power bar of claim 1, further comprising an electric connection configured to connect to a detachable power cable.

12. The power bar of claim 11, wherein the power bar is adapted to connect to another power bar via the detachable power cable.

13. The power bar of claim 11, wherein the power bar is adapted to connect to the external power source via the detachable power cable, and wherein the battery receives power from the external power source via the detachable power cable.

14. The power bar of claim 1, wherein the power bar is configured to provide wireless connectivity.

15. The power bar of claim 14, wherein the power bar is configured to receive power management data via a wireless connection.

16. The power bar of claim 15, wherein the power management data include one or more of a command to power on the power bar, a command to power off the power bar, a command to power on the first electric outlet, a command to power off the first electric outlet, a setting to power on and power off the power bar based on a schedule, and a setting to power on and power off the first electric outlet based on a schedule.

17. The power bar of claim 1, wherein the first electric outlet is configured to partially or fully rotate in at least one of a clockwise and counter clockwise direction.

18. The power bar of claim 1, further comprising one or more pin magnets configured to couple the power bar to another power bar.

19. A wall station having a first slot configured to releasably accommodate the power bar of claim 1, wherein the wall station includes at least one of a two-prong and a plug and is configured to fit over a wall outlet comprising the external power source, and wherein the battery receives power from the external power source via the wall station.

20. A power dock having a first slot configured to releasably accommodate the power bar of claim 1, wherein the power dock comprises one or more electrical connections adapted to connect the power dock to the external power source, and wherein the battery receives power from the external power source via the power dock.